Scottish businessman and philanthropist Sir Tom Hunter has pledged to match donations made to BBC presenter Paddy McGuinness's charity challenge for Children in Need, raising the matching fund cap to £3 million. McGuinness is cycling from Wrexham to Glasgow, creating significant public engagement and raising over £4 million. Hunter's increased commitment reflects the overwhelming public response, and his admiration for McGuinness's dedication. The event, which has captured national interest, emphasises community spirit and charitable impact. The BBC Children in Need appeal will be aired on November 15, 2023.
With nine major players like Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka withdrawing from the England squad due to injuries, captain Harry Kane voices his concern over players potentially prioritising club commitments over the national team. This development has put interim manager Lee Carsley in a difficult position as they prepare for crucial UEFA Nations League matches against Greece and Ireland. Discussions about player commitment to the national side intensify as England must secure a win against Greece to advance in the tournament.
In a surprising turn of events, Dogecoin has experienced a staggering surge in value, soaring nearly 20% following President-elect Donald Trump’s announcement regarding the new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). This department, led by Tesla CEO Elon Musk and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, aims to eliminate inefficiencies in federal governance. Trump described the initiative as a monumental effort comparable to the 'Manhattan Project' of government reform, raising questions about its ambitious goals and their impact on the cryptocurrency market. Analysts predict that Dogecoin could reach $1, buoyed by retail interest and substantial whale activity. The establishment of DOGE faces both excitement and skepticism regarding its viability and ethical considerations in overhauling the federal bureaucracy by the target date of July 4, 2026.
Homebase, the UK DIY chain, has entered administration, risking around 2,000 jobs. Despite being owned by Hilco since 2018, the company faced declining consumer confidence, high inflation, and supply chain issues, culminating in an £84.2 million loss last year. CDS Superstores has acquired up to 70 Homebase locations, safeguarding approximately 1,600 jobs, while the remaining stores will trade temporarily as administrators seek buyers.
Representative Matt Gaetz has officially resigned from Congress as he has been nominated by President-elect Donald Trump for the position of attorney general. This move effectively halts a long-standing investigation by the House Ethics Committee into multiple allegations against Gaetz. Trump’s choice of Gaetz has sparked a range of reactions from Republican senators, raising questions about his ability to secure confirmation. The nomination has intensified existing rifts within the party, reflecting concerns about Gaetz's past legal issues and reputation.
Timothy West, the esteemed British actor known for his extensive contributions to stage and screen, has passed away at the age of 90. His family confirmed the news, highlighting his peaceful passing surrounded by loved ones. West's remarkable career spanned over six decades, featuring iconic roles in major soap operas and classical theatre, and he was notably recognized as a Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1984. Tributes have poured in from fans and colleagues celebrating his legacy in the arts.
President-elect Donald Trump has announced significant appointments, naming Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence and Matt Gaetz as Attorney General. Gabbard's anti-interventionist stance suggests a shift in U.S. foreign policy, while Gaetz faces scrutiny from within his own party. Marco Rubio is also appointed as Secretary of State, indicating a mix of traditional and unorthodox political perspectives in the new administration.
Gary Lineker, the iconic host of the BBC's *Match of the Day*, will step down at the end of the 2024-25 season after a successful 26-year tenure, continuing to host coverage for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and leading BBC's FA Cup coverage. His departure reflects wider changes within the BBC amid financial challenges, sparking speculation on potential successors.
NHS England is launching varenicline, a once-daily stop-smoking pill that promises to significantly aid smokers in quitting by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Expected to support over 85,000 smokers annually, the new pill is a replacement for Champix and has been deemed safe by UK health authorities. With estimated potential to prevent 9,500 smoking-related deaths over the next five years, varenicline could reshape public health efforts against smoking.
David Coote, a Premier League referee, has been suspended by PGMOL following the release of an unverified video allegedly showing him making derogatory remarks about Liverpool FC and its former manager, Jurgen Klopp. The incident has sparked significant backlash and raised questions about impartiality in officiating.