instagram/@shea.manningsA new Love Island bombshell has a secret connection to two former show stars, but they’ve cut ties with him[/caption]
InstagramTwo villa girls were liking Shea’s snaps[/caption]
instagram/@umajammehUma Jammeh liked his photos between 2021 and 2023[/caption]
Shea is a 6ft 4 striker from Brighton with an Instagram bursting with action shots from his time on the pitch.
Have YOU got a story or an amazing picture or video?Emailexclusive@the-sun.co.ukand you could even get PAID
And a scroll on his Instagram shows that two former Islanders – Ella Barnes and Uma Jammeh – were liking his photos.
The two girls liked Shea’s snaps between 2021 and 2023, but it seems they’ve since cut ties.
Neither of the girls now follow the footballer on Instagram, despite previously liking his pictures.
Ella appeared on Love Island for season 10, and found a connection with Mitch Taylor, but the pair split shortly after leaving the show.
And Uma rose to fame on the hit dating show last year, and is still with boyfriend Wil Anderson after meeting him on it.
New bombshells Shea and Remell are already in the Love Island villa, ready to stir up trouble.
A source told The Sun: “The two new boys are already in the villa and immedietely started turning heads.
“The OG lads thought they were safe but three bombshells in three days shows that producers aren’t messing around.”
If Shakira can convince a boy to split from his partner she’ll be saved.
Either way, at least one girl is going home tonight.
InstagramElla Barnes was also liking Shea’s snaps[/caption]
instagram/@shea.manningsShea isn’t followed by either of the Love Island ladies anymore[/caption]
4 days agoNews TalkComments Off on 6 best mattress protectors 2025: tried and tested
SUMMER nights can be tough on your mattress – from heat and sweat to unexpected thunderstorms leaving windows open.
That’s why we’ve tested the best mattress protectors to keep your bed fresh through the warmer months and beyond.
We’ve put a number of mattress protectors to the test – read on for our pick of the best
As temperatures rise, the right mattress protector becomes even more crucial.
They’re not just for spills and accidents – a good one can actually help regulate your sleeping temperature during those sticky summer evenings.
Navigating the endless options online quickly becomes tedious, especially when you’re trying to enjoy the season rather than shop for bedding essentials.
So we’ve done the hard work for you, putting the market’s top mattress protectors through their paces to find options that truly deliver on their promises.
From cooling, breathable fabrics perfect for summer to waterproof barriers that protect against unexpected downpours (or that ice cream you’re enjoying in bed), these protectors are essential guardians of your mattress investment.
Kids home for summer holidays? Pets shedding their winter coats? Planning some lazy Sunday morning breakfast-in-beds?
Whatever your summer situation, our top picks will keep your mattress in pristine condition while helping you stay comfortable during the hottest months of the year.
How we test
At The Sun Shopping, we don’t just talk the talk – we sleep on every mattress protector in our own homes.
Our testing routine is thorough and real-world because your bed deserves nothing less!
We check each protector for fit across different mattress depths, timing how long it takes to put on (because who needs bedding that fights back?).
We sleep on them for multiple nights, noting comfort, noise, and heat retention.
For waterproof claims, we put them to the ultimate test – deliberately pouring water to check for leakage.
Each protector gets washed and dried according to instructions multiple times to assess durability and shrinkage.
Price is always factored into our final verdict, ensuring value matches performance.
Pros: ‘Barely-there’ feel with waterproof protection; hypoallergenic and antimicrobial bamboo blend; silent
Cons: Delicate elasticated skirt requires careful handling; needs special washing care (separate from items with zips/buttons)
Rating: 5/5
This might just be my favourite mattress protector ever.
Thanks to the bamboo-cotton nanotechnology, it manages to have a ‘barely-there’ feel whilst also having a waterproof layer which is unheard of in the world of mattress protectors.
Usually, I find there’s an almost plastic-y feeling and sound when a protector has a waterproof layer, but I didn’t even notice this was on the bed.
It fits snuggly and comfortably and wraps around the mattress (and topper if you have one) without any overhang, due to the 32cm depth and fully elasticated skirt.
If I had one bug-bear, it would be that the elasticated skirt feels kind of fragile and like it could tear if you got heavy-handed with it.
To mitigate risk, I recommend washing this separately from any garment with zips, clips or buttons.
It’s naturally hypoallergenic and antimicrobial, which is great if you’re an allergy sufferer like me and can’t sleep properly if there’s even a speck of dust about.
From a design standpoint, the slightly bevelled edges leave a great finish and ensure that bed sheets have a little more structure when on.
Pros: Thin and breathable, and easy to fit onto the mattress
Cons: Not as secure fitting around the mattress as others
Rating: 4.5/5
This mattress protector from Nectar is a great all-rounder that won’t break the bank.
Made from a breathable tencel jersey with a SmartSeal PU film, this waterproof protector fits easily into the mattress.
It’s perfect if you live alone or are the designated bed-maker in your household, as you can put it on alone without any trouble.
Keeping you cool all through the night, it’s lightweight and doesn’t budge when you sleep which is important – there’s really nothing more annoying than when it slips off the edge!
It washes really well and isn’t too bulky to fit in the washing machine, meaning it’s easy to keep clean.
It’s not tumble-dry safe, but I left it out in the garden on a sunny afternoon, and it dried within a couple of hours, so don’t let that deter you.
Setting you back just £45 for a double, it’s ideal for those who don’t want to spend lots but are after good quality.
Pros: Waterproof, cushioned, comfortable, fits perfectly on the mattress, very easy to wash
Cons: Holds heat (I’ve been feeling more hot in bed since I started using it)
Rating: 4.5/5
This product ticks a lot of my boxes when it comes to mattress protectors.
First of all, it does what it states: it’s actually waterproof.
I tested it by pouring a glass of water on the protector, and I was pleased to see that it did not transfer to the mattress.
I previously owned a waterproof mattress protector and the most annoying feature was the crinkling sound that it used to make when turning around in bed.
This protector does not make any sounds, which is the main reason why it scored so highly for me.
It’s easy to manage, as it fits perfectly on the Otty Hybrid Mattress and is very lightweight.
It states on the website that it protects against dust mites, bacteria and allergens – but it’s important to wash it within a few hours if you spill something on the mattress protector, to avoid any stains developing.
Another reason the mattress protector scored highly is due to how comfortable I found it: even though it’s 100% polyester, it’s extremely soft.
I’ve noticed that even though Otty states that the material is breathable, I found that I was getting hotter in bed since using the waterproof mattress protector – hence why I removed 0.5 points from the score.
It’s not a big concern for me, as winter is fast approaching and I’m hoping it will help keep me warm when the nights get colder.
Overall, the price for the mattress protector is reasonably priced at £119.99 for a king-size bed.
If you need a mattress protector that is actually waterproof, then this is the one for you.
Pros: Fits snugly to the mattress, meaning it won’t slip or easily untuck
Cons: Quite thick and elasticated edges make it a little tricky to put on the mattress alone
Rating: 4/5
The Emma Sleep mattress protector is one of the most secure protectors I’ve seen, and most definitely used.
With a fully elasticated edge, it fits snugly to the mattress meaning it doesn’t budge at all while you sleep – perfect if you get fidgety during the night.
As much as I love how well it fits to the mattress, it did take a little more effort than usual to fit to the mattress.
It wasn’t immediately clear which edges were which, and the snug fit meant I really had to stretch it across (I think it would be much easier if you’re making the bed with someone else, but I am the designated bed maker in my house).
Made from 100% polyester, it’s breathable but still water-repellent, which keeps the mattress clean and protected.
It’s a little bit pricer at £94 full price for a double, so if you’re serious about your sleep, it’s one for you.
The Simba Performance Mattress Protector has to be one of the most luxurious protectors that I have ever tried.
It’s made from breathable cotton with an anti-dust mite treatment, so if like me, allergies are not your friend (looking at you, hayfever and dust) then it’s the perfect companion for your mattress.
It has cushioning of 200gm, so it feels more like a super thin topper than a protector.
It also has bound edges which means it looks really premium on any mattress up to 40cm thick.
The biggest pitfall for me is the lack of waterproof liner, which is more of a problem if you have little ones who are prone to accidents, or you like to have a glass (bottle) of wine in bed.
I have no little ones except an impeccably trained labrador, so it wasn’t a huge concern for me – but it was good to know.
It’s machine-washable at 40 degrees and can go on a cool tumble, so it’s an easy protector to wash when you do your bedding.
Pros: Very thin, breathable, water resistant, well-made, doubles as a fitted sheet
Cons: Not as snug fitting as expected, expensive, slippery
Rating: 3.5/5
The Tempur mattress protector is a 2-in-1 design, meaning it can double up as a bottom sheet.
This is a great feature if you hate putting sheets on the bed and if you don’t want to spend even more money on a bottom sheet.
I personally chose to add a fitted sheet on top, as the waterproof nature of the protector means it has a slightly slippery surface, which I wasn’t too keen on.
This slippery texture, however, does make it feel cool to the touch and if you’re a fan of silk sheets, you will probably like it.
Both the mattress protector and the mattress I tested it on were Tempur, so I had expected the protector to fit like a glove, however, there was slight puckering around the edges.
This being said, compared to other mattress protectors I’ve tested, the fit was still superior.
To test the waterproofness of the protector, I poured some water onto the sheet, and despite it looking like it was seeping through the sheet, the mattress underneath did, in fact, stay dry.
The protector fared well in the wash, and the waterproofing remained unaffected.
The mattress protector is pretty expensive, in my opinion.
However, it’s also worth noting that if you order a mattress of a certain size directly from the Tempur website, you can receive one for free.
Mattress protector FAQs
What is the point of a mattress protector?
A mattress protector essentially helps to keep your mattress clean and fresh – acting as a barrier against spills, sweat, body oils and other liquids that can penetrate the mattress.
As Theresa Schnorbach, a sleep scientist at Emma, explains: ‘Mattress protectors, similar to mattress toppers, can prolong the lifespan of your mattress.
‘They are usually made from impermeable or water-resistant materials.’
‘I’d recommend a mattress protector to those who want to prolong the lifespan of their mattress,’ she adds.
We’d add that if you’re thinking of making a new mattress purchase, now is the perfect time to buy a protector, as it means your mattress will be kept fresh from new.
There’s also our shopping page for more product tips and recommendations.
Should I choose a mattress protector or a mattress topper?
Think of a mattress protector as your mattress’s bodyguard – it defends against spills, sweat, allergens and those inevitable breakfast-in-bed accidents.
They’re usually thinner and designed purely for protection, not comfort.
A mattress topper, meanwhile, is all about transforming how your bed feels.
If your mattress is too firm, too soft, or simply past its best, a good topper can completely rejuvenate your sleeping experience by adding extra cushioning and support.
For ultimate mattress care, we’d actually recommend using both – the topper to give you that perfect comfort level, with a protector over everything to keep it all pristine.
Your future self (and your mattress warranty) will thank you!
What types of mattress protectors are available to buy?
Theresa says there are ‘a broad range of mattress protectors that can offer protection for different types of sleepers.’
For instance, ‘waterproof and anti-allergy protectors act like a shield and can help safeguard you and your mattress from physical damage.
She also notes: ‘While cooling protectors can help to stop you overheating at night, fleece or high pile mattress protectors offer comfort and warmth.
‘If it’s comfort that you’re looking for, you could also consider a mattress topper instead.
‘Like a protector, a topper can be easily removed and washed to help prolong your mattress’s life.
‘However, they usually do not offer the same level of waterproofing,’ she adds.
Is it worth buying an expensive mattress protector?
An expensive mattress protector can be worth it if you’re looking for extra perks like waterproofing, cooling features or plush padding.
If you spill your coffee in bed or have a pet who loves jumping up for a cuddle, the pricier ones offer better protection.
Plus, all importantly – they can be a lot comfier.
If you’re simply just trying to keep dust and sweat away though, a mid-range option will certainly do the trick.
Theresa says it’s best to ‘consider the comfort and any sleep concerns of the person you’re buying for: are you buying for a child who wets the bed, or are you looking to improve your sleep on an old mattress?
‘Let the needs of the sleeper guide what kind of mattress protector (and perhaps topper) you’re looking to purchase.’
The right fit is just as important too, as it will ‘prevent potential disturbances like the rustling of excess material or your protector pinging off under your sheet as you move in the night’.
What material is best for a waterproof mattress protector?
The best material for a waterproof mattress protector is a waterproof material like polyurethane.
When combined with a soft and breathable top layer like cotton or bamboo, you’ve got a winning pairing – so it’s definitely worth checking the fabric composition of an item before buying.
Polyurethane creates an effective waterproof barrier while still being breathable.
In contrast, cheaper plastic materials can make the bed feel hot or noisy, so you’ll want to avoid those.
‘When made from the right material, mattress protectors can keep you fresh and cool throughout the night by providing another breathable layer on top of your mattress’, Theresa agrees.
‘This helps to regulate your body’s temperature, giving you a comfortable sleep all night long.’
How often should I wash my mattress protector?
The sweet spot for washing is every 1-2 months for optimal freshness and hygiene.
But that’s just the baseline. If you’re prone to night sweats, have pets sharing your bed, or children with unpredictable spillage skills, you’ll want to increase that frequency significantly.
Trust us, some of our water-pouring tests revealed just how much liquid these protectors can absorb before reaching capacity!
When washing, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions – our testing showed dramatic differences in how protectors maintain their waterproofing after multiple washes.
Some premium options maintained perfect performance after five cycles, while budget choices began to degrade noticeably.
New protector? Absolutely wash it before first use – straight-from-packaging chemicals aren’t what you want against your skin all night!
What is the life expectancy of a mattress protector?
A good mattress protector can last anywhere from two to five years, depending on how well you treat it.
If you’re washing it regularly (but not too harshly) and it’s not battling daily coffee spills or pet accidents, it’ll stick around for a while.
Like any regularly used item, though, it will eventually show signs of wear – so you can expect some thinning, a little less waterproofing magic or small tears.
If it starts looking worn out or it’s not doing its job, it’s time to let it retire.
Keep it happy, and it’ll keep your mattress safe for years!
Will mattress protectors go on sale for Black Friday?
Absolutely!
Many retailers selling mattress protectors are known to join the Black Friday sales frenzy, so you can definitely snag a deal.
Big retailers love slashing prices on bedding, and mattress protectors are no exception.
Whether you’re eyeing a high-end waterproof protector or a simple comfy one, chances are you’ll find discounts.
Black Friday and Cyber Monday are prime times for upgrading your sleep setup without breaking the bank, so if you’ve been waiting for the right moment to grab a protector (or two!), get ready to pounce on the best deals.
Your mattress will thank you (and so will your wallet).
Head to our shopping mattress hub for more deals, reviews and recommendations.
4 days agoNews TalkComments Off on How YOU can boost your chances of winning £210M on Euromillions today… from best numbers to luckiest places to buy
EXPERTS have revealed their top tips for punters looking to get their hands on the EuroMillions £208m jackpot prize – from where to buy your ticket to the numbers most likely to come up.
Our lottery gurus have busted common myths and pointed out several key points to bear in mind ahead of tonight’s draw, which is the largest the UK has ever seen.
AlamyExperts have answered some of the most common questions ahead of tonight’s draw[/caption]
Allwyn, operators of The National Lottery, has provided some crucial advice for Brits hoping to win hundreds of millions of pounds ahead of the 7.30pm EuroMillionsdeadline.
It answered common questions, including choosing the optimum spot for buying tickets and the best way to choose your numbers.
The British firm has given a rare insight into some of the previous winners, exposing their rituals and the stories behind their success.
Where is the best place to buy my ticket?
Simon Horne, Consumer Communications Manager at Allwyn, advised players to keep things personal when choosing where to buy a ticket.
Speaking to The Sun, he said: “If I can offer some advice, it would be to buy your ticket where you feel lucky.
“Some might prefer to go to their local shop and buy one from their friendly newsagent, maybe somewhere they’ve been going for the last few years.
“Others might feel lucky sat in the bath, if that’s the case, go and buy your ticket online sat in the tub.
“It’s really personal and up to players to decide where they might get that extra little bit of luck.
“We look after so many previous winners and we hear some amazing stories about how they’ve played their lucky numbers.
“Many of us have these little rituals which we think can bring us a little bit of fortune.”
Simon told how one winner had picked up a ticket from his own corner shop after a shift and became a millionaire overnight.
Will picking random numbers boost my odds?
In terms of numbers, Simon added: “Players should not rule out any set of numbers.
“Just because we intuitively think close numbers like 1,2,3,4,5 won’t come out, they have the same chance.
“We’ve had winners in the past who have won by choosing numbers that mean something to them.
“Anniversaries and birthdays are very common and they might be lucky for you.
“But some also like to choose a random selection, like number plates on the motorway
“Every set of numbers has as much chance of coming out because this is a random draw.
“Players need to go with their gut. Do not rule anything out.”
Is it actually worth buying more tickets?
You don’t buy a ticket, you won’t win the raffle.
Simon pointed to the fact that anyone who buys a ticket is in with a chance.
Although it means you’ll have to share your winnings, pooling your luck will increase your chances of scooping some cash.
The same goes for buying multiple tickets yourself – but this way you only have to pay for one.
And the odds become much more favourable for every additional ticket you purchase.
He said: “From the raw statistical point of view, if you buy ten tickets, you have ten chances in the draw.
“It’s why some people prefer to play as a syndicate, with other people.
“You have statistically more chance as a group – we know people like to play together and it’s nice to be part of a group
“They capture people’s imaginations and it can be a really nice way for people to play and be more social
“We have lots of syndicates who win and the shared joy comes regardless of who it’s with, whether that’s work, pals or family.
“Just make sure you have an agreement signed beforehand!”
Which numbers come up the most?
Since September 2016, more than 900 draws have been made for the EuroMillions.
The number 20 has been pulled out the most with 111 appearances.
It was last drawn four days ago, in Friday’s EuroMillions.
LotteryAs of June 10, 2025, the number 20 is the most common number, while 22 has appeared the least amount of times since September 2016.[/caption]
The 20s have proved very popular in the past nine years or so – with 21, 23 and 29 all appearing more than 100 times.
Completing the top five, 42 has been drawn 104 times.
The most popular lucky stars numbers (between one and 12) and three and two, which have been picked 178 and 174 times respectively.
The least popular number is 22, which has only been thrown up 65 times out of 908 chances.
4 days agoNews TalkComments Off on Inside Syria’s ‘human slaughterhouse’ prisons where sick guards threw ‘execution parties’ & floors were carpet of bodies
IT was one of the most fearsome regimes in the Middle East, ruling Syria with an iron grip and “disappearing” hundreds of thousands of people during the country’s brutal civil war.
But President Bashar Al-Assad’s dramatic toppling in December last year exposed the true horrors of his “human slaughterhouse” prisons.
GettyRebels swarmed the now-empty prisons after the collapse of the Assad regime[/caption]
GettySaydnaya Prison near Damascus was the most notorious prison in the country[/caption]
ReutersThe Assad regime collapsed in December 2024. Pictured: a former inmate demonstrates how he was forced to line up naked for a medical check before being taken to a solitary confinement cell at the basement of Saydnaya[/caption]
Here detainees were fed from buckets and tortured day and night by sadistic guards who often assassinated them and threw sick ‘execution parties’ – before disposing of the dead in mass graves.
Now a harrowing new BBCdocumentary, on tonight, delves into what really went on in jails that let Assad keep his grip on power for so long – and hears not only from the inmates detained in them, but the people who ran them.
“When the prisoners heard my name, they would tremble,” said Hussam, a military policeman who worked in the notorious Saydnaya Prison.
“I beat them with all my strength. I showed them no mercy at all.”
With the dictator gone, outsiders were free to explore the labyrinth of concrete corridors that only a few months before were filled with the echoing screams of gaunt prisoners.
The floors were littered with files and photographs of detainees – some partially burnt in an attempt to cover up the crimes – just part of the meticulous records kept by the state of everyone who passed through the prison walls, their names replaced by a number.
Families of the missing and imprisoned are seen in the documentary desperately crawling over rubble hunting for a trace of their loved ones – or at least the truth about what happened to them.
Crucial to his hold on power were his security services, who showed little mercy to prisoners accused of threatening the regime.
“As security officers we had the right to kill as we please. We wouldn’t be held accountable,” said Colonel Zain, a former Air Force Intelligence officer interviewed on the documentary.
“[Our] mission, like any other agency, was to protect the ruling regime. You have unlimited authority.”
To them, these were terrorists – and death was the least they deserved.
In 2011, protests in Tunisia turned into a call for better human rights across the Middle East and North Africa, a movement called the Arab spring.
But when those protests swept into the squares of Syria’s capital, Damascus, they were met with a fierce crackdown.
Instead of toppling Assad, the country was plunged into a brutal civil war as different factions wrestled for control.
During the 13 years of fighting, more than one million people were detained by the regime.
Street kidnappings
EPAA new BBC documentary tells the story of those who were locked up by Assad – and the officers administering the brutal torture[/caption]
GettyThe floors are littered with the belongings of former inmates[/caption]
GettyA giant iron press was allegedly used to crush and torture prisoners[/caption]
Shadi Haroun was one of the first organising protests back in 2011, along with his brother Hadi.
After dodging shots from snipers on rooftops, he was bundled into a car and taken to what looked like an ordinary house in the suburbs of Damascus.
But this was no home. It was an interrogation centre – and Shadi was to get his first taste of the Assad regime’s determination to stamp him out.
“The soldier told me to open my mouth,” Shadi recalled. “He put his gun inside, and said: ‘You’re going to get tortured to death. So why don’t I make it easier and put you to rest?’”
Soon after he was transferred to Mezzeh Air Force Intelligence base, one of the regime’s most notorious detention sites.
Like all those who opposed Assad, Shadi was deemed a terrorist – with torture their chosen method of extracting a confession.
“He called the investigator and said to him, ‘This man, flay him and break his bones. Kill him, do whatever you want, but I need his confession on my desk’,” said Shadi.
This man, flay him and break his bones. Kill him, do whatever you want, but I need his confession on my desk
Security official
“He told me to lie down. They handcuffed my hands behind my back, and then cuffed my feet and joined my hands and feet together.
“They wrapped me in a blanket, like being inside a pipe. I was sweating and the smell of blood was very strong. I stayed wrapped like that for about a week.”
Eventually Shadi was released. Undeterred, he began organising protests again, more determined than ever to bring down the regime.
Carpet of bodies
ReutersThousands still don’t know the whereabouts of their imprisoned family members – be they dead or alive[/caption]
GettyHundreds swarmed the now-open prisons, pleading for any sign of their loved ones[/caption]
AFPSaydnaya was particular well-known for its inhuman conditions and human rights abuses that went on inside[/caption]
Within nine months of the protests, thousands had been arrested, many bundled off the streets like Shadi and taken to secretive locations where they were tortured until they ‘confessed’.
At least 3,000 had already been killed.
Syria’s security forces had a network of spies and informants across the country that tracked people like Shadi’s every move.
“You could find informants wherever you go,” said Sergeant Omar, an officer in the Air Force Intelligence.
“They could be a taxi driver, they could be a plumber, a mobile phone shop owner, a guy selling cigarettes.
“People were living in fear. This is why we’d say, ‘the walls have ears’.”
It wasn’t long before soldiers pulled up to the house Shadi and his brother were hiding in.
Arrested once again, they were taken to the notorious Air Force Intelligence branch in Harasta, on the outskirts of Damascus.
Those who entered would walk over the bodies of the detainees – you couldn’t see the floor
Colonel Zain
Colonel Zain was second in command at the time.
“The place I worked in was very famous for its bloody practices and the number of detainees held there,” he said.
“We would pack 400 detainees in a room that was eight by ten metres. Those who entered would walk over the bodies of the detainees – you couldn’t see the floor.”
Shadi returned to Harasta with the documentary crew and showed them round the bare walls that once imprisoned him.
“The temperature was around 40 degrees, because it was so crowded,” said Shadi.
“We saw strange cases of disease amongst prisoners, I think due to oxygen deficiency because of overcrowding. These psychotic episodes soon turned into physical symptoms.”
‘Torture parties’
GettyPrisoners were executed with a noose around their neck[/caption]
SOPA Images/LightRocket via GettPiles of clothing now litter the floors where once inmates were tortured for hours on end[/caption]
GettyPrison guards relished in administering beatings[/caption]
Inside is a changing room, where inmates were stripped, and solitary confinement cells where prisoners would spend months, or even years, locked up.
In a neighbouring room, Shadi is reminded of when he was chained up with his brother before being interrogated from pipes on the ceiling.
“We were taken there and hung by our handcuffs from the pipes,” he said. “It was unbearable – for almost 72 hours, three days, in the same position, without food or drink.”
Colonel Zain recalled: “The interrogation room was right underneath my office.
“Everyone heard the screams. Everyone knew how the interrogations were conducted.”
Four months into their detention, a truck pulled up that was normally used to transport meat and they were moved to Saydnaya, a prison with a reputation for brutality that preceded anywhere else in the country.
Brainwashed guards treated prisoners like animals, subjecting detainees to continuous beatings.
“We were tortured for hours, and stopped keeping track of time,” recalled Hadi.
“If someone cried during a beating, the beating would get worse.”
Torture them, don’t let them sleep at night. Throw them a party… put them in a grave if you want to, bury them alive
Intelligence officer
Putting his arms up against a door, Shadi said: “They’d bring a cable and suspend us like this. This is the ‘Ghost Method’.
“They’d pull us up and we’d be on our toes – you’d last 30 minutes then you’d pass out.”
Up to 13,000 prisoners were executed here alone in the first four years of the civil war, according to Amnesty.
“I beat them with all my strength,” said Hussam, a military policeman.
“Our superiors would say, ‘Torture them, don’t let them sleep at night. Throw them a party… put them in a grave if you want to, bury them alive’.
“When they’d call me to go and torture them, the prisoners would go back to their cells bloody and exhausted.”
‘Execution parties’
GettyCompartments uncovered in the prisons were filled with shoes belonging to executed prisoners[/caption]
GettyBodies of the dead were taken to military hospitals where their deaths were recorded as ‘heart and respiratory failure’[/caption]
Occasionally a prisoner would be dragged out of their cell, finally receiving a respite from the torture.
But they were on their way to a secret trial – and death was the usual sentence.
“On Wednesday mornings, we’d have an ‘execution party’,” Hussam recalled.
“Our role during executions was to place the rope on the prisoner – only an officer could push the chair.
“One time, the chair was pushed, but after 22 minutes he didn’t die. So I grabbed him and pulled him downwards, so another guard who was bigger and stronger said, ‘Go I will do it.’
“Before he died he said one thing: ‘I’m going to tell God what you did’.”
The bodies of the dead – be it from execution, torture, or disease – were then taken to military hospitals where their deaths were registered.
“Most of the bodies suffered acute weight loss, resembling a skeleton,” said Kamal, an army nurse.
“Most of them suffered from skin lesions and rashes due to lack of hygiene – and most of them had torture marks.”
He added: “It was forbidden to record the cause of death as torture. Even those killed from gunshots were recorded as heart and respiratory failure.”
All the decision makers who had a role in oppressing the Syrian people escaped, and are now in hiding
Shadi
With the bodies piling up, mass graves were the only solution.
At least 130 grave sites have been found across Syria so far – but dozens more are believed to be out there, known only to those who dug them out.
There is little hope of identification for the thousands dumped there.
Many of the guards and officers defected from Assad’s regime, joining the rebels or fleeing the country.
By 2019, the rebellion had largely been suppressed.
Shadi and his brother were released at last, fleeing to exile in Turkey.
Then, in December this year, rebel forces overwhelmed Damascus and Assad fled the country and claimed asylum in Russia.
With the collapse of the regime, Shadi set to work helping others locate their missing friends and family.
But for many there is little hope of ever finding out what really happened to them.
“Everyone, the detainees, and families of the missing, should keep talking about this,” he said.
“All the decision makers who had a role in oppressing the Syrian people escaped, and are now in hiding.
“They’ve left everybody to pick up the pieces – to deal with what they left behind.”
Surviving Syria’s Prisons airs tonight on BBC Two at 9pm.
GettyA view from a secret compartment at Sednaya Prison, littered with clothes belonging to former inmates[/caption]
4 days agoNews TalkComments Off on We left the UK to live in a £2.5k caravan in Benidorm – now we don’t pay any bills and get 300 days of sun a year
A COUPLE have revealed that they have ditched the UK to live in a caravan in Benidorm.
Brits Gemma and Nicky now don’t have to pay for council tax, energy bills or a TV licence, whilst they soak up the sun in the popular Spanish tourist city.
tiktok/villamar.gemmanickyGemma and Nicky ditched the UK for sunny Benidorm[/caption]
tiktok/villamar.gemmanickyThey love Benidorm because of the balmy weather and budget prices[/caption]
The duo are delighted with their decision to purchase an old caravan for £2500, and are planning on obtaining Spanish residency, so they can live in it full time.
Taking to TikTok, Gemma and Nicky revealed that their decision to move to the tourist hot spot has a lot to do with the city’s budget friendly prices.
They also boasted that their new home gets “300 days of sun a year.”
They shared that a ticket back to the UK costs them just £24, which they said is less than the cost of a taxi in to town back home.
The couple have parked their caravan at the Villamar camping site, and have already made pals with the “friendly staff and residents.”
Describing the campsite, they said it has “lovely cheap food, no big bills, no stress, [and] no problems.”
They added that is also boasts “cheap beer”, “three beautiful pools, and an onsite supermarket and hairdressers.”
Currently, the couple are only allowed to stay at the caravan for 90 days in a 180 day period, as this is how long Brits can stay in Europe without a visa.
However, they hope to soon obtain residency, so they can make a permanent move to the caravan site.
When the couple first purchased the caravan, it had been left abandoned for seven years, and featured outdated upholstery and a grubby exterior.
However, determined to turn it into their dream home, Gemma and Nicky revamped the caravan into a stylish pad featuring two bedrooms, a stylish kitchen, a living room and a bathroom.
They have even installed an air conditioning unit to help them cope with Benidorm’s scorching temperatures.
Despite the cheap cost of the caravan, the couple also have to pay £5000 a year to place their caravan on the campsite, and to use its facilities.
How much does it cost to live in a caravan?
LIVING in a caravan can be an economical and flexible lifestyle choice in the UK. Here's a breakdown of potential costs:
Initial Costs
Caravan Purchase: £8,000 – £40,000 (depending on size, age, and condition)
Caravan Insurance: £200 – £800 per year
Ongoing Monthly Costs
Pitch Fees: £150 – £600 (varies by location and facilities)
Utilities (Electricity, Gas, Water): £40 – £120
Maintenance and Repairs: £20 – £80
Internet and TV: £20 – £50
Gas for Heating/Cooking: £15 – £40
Other Potential Costs
Waste Disposal Fees: £8 – £25
Transport Costs (if moving locations): Variable, depending on distance
Optional Add-ons (Awning, Solar Panels, etc.): £400 – £1,600 (one-time)
Sample Monthly Budget
Pitch Fees: £400
Utilities: £80
Maintenance and Repairs: £40
Internet and TV: £40
Gas for Heating/Cooking: £25
Total: £585
Annual Estimated Cost
Total Monthly Costs: £585 x 12 = £7,020
Insurance: £500
Maintenance and Repairs: £480
Total Annual Cost: £8,000
Tips to Save
Off-Peak Pitch Fees: Look for lower rates during off-peak seasons.
DIY Maintenance: Handle minor repairs yourself.
Energy Efficiency: Invest in solar panels to reduce utility costs.
While initial setup costs can be significant, ongoing expenses for living in a caravan can be relatively low, making it a viable option for those seeking an affordable and mobile lifestyle in the UK.
However, their beaming faces in their TikTok videos suggest that they believe it’s worth every penny.
Gemma and Nicky have been documenting their Benidorm journey via the @villamar.gemmanicky TikTok page, and their videos have proved popular with fans, racking up 97,000 likes in total.
Social media users have flooded the video’s comments section to share their thoughts on the couple’s move abroad.
One person said: “Good for you, I’d love to do this.”
A second person said: “My dream. Congratulations. I love it. I want one.”
4 days agoNews TalkComments Off on New driving licence rule kicks in for millions of Brits TODAY – are you impacted?
A NEW driving licence rule has officially been brought in, changing what a standard permit can legally cover.
British motorist who hold a standard Category B licence will now be allowed to drive zero-emissionvehiclesweighing up to 4,250kg.
AlamyMillions of UK motorists will be eligible to drive a wider range of vehicles without additional testing (stock image)[/caption]
Under this update, millions of UK drivers will now be able to legally drive an electric van or small truck with a standard vehicle licence.
Previously, motorists would have been required to provide a higher licence category.
The rule change is aimed at making it easier to switch to greener vehicles, which often weigh more due to large battery packs or hydrogen fuel systems.
A typical medium-sized electric delivery van or passenger minibus can weigh close to 4,250kg, especially when fitted with extra equipment.
This is a significant increase from the 3,500kg limit which was previously in place.
The licence update is expected to support the growing shift towards greener transport options.
Use of zero emission vehicles has grown significantly in recent years as drivers embrace cleaner motoring.
Beginning today, motorists with a Category B driving licence can drive an electric or hydrogen-powered vehicle with a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of up to 4,250kg.
In order to be eligible, the vehicle must be a zero emission vehicle.
Meanwhile, the MAM limit for petrol and diesel vehicles remains at 3,500kg when driving with a category B licence.
To fall in within the category, the vehicle must be classified as a van or a light commercial vehicle.
The rule applies to standard vehicles that can be used with a Category B licence, including cars, SUVs, vans, and small trucks.
Vehicles which use specialist equipment to support disabled passengers can have a MAM of up to 5,000kg, however, the extra 750kg must be attributable to the equipment.
Category B licence holders can also tow a trailer with a MAM up to 3,500kg wit a petrol, diesel, electric, or hydrogen vehicle.
However, the combined MAM of the vehicle and trailer must not exceed 7,000kg.
Top 10 most common driving licence codes and what they mean
EVER turned your driving licence over and wondered what the random collection of numbers mean?
If not, you should because the codes could land you with a fine and penalty points if you don’t understand what they’re there for.
Here are the ten most common codes and what they mean:
01 – eyesight correction, for example glasses or contact lenses
02 – hearing/communication aid
40 – modified steering
101 – not for hire or reward (that is, not to make a profit)
105 – vehicle not more than 5.5metres long
106 – restricted to vehicles with automatic transmissions
107 – not more than 8,250 kilograms
111 – limited to 16 passenger seats
115 – organ donor
122 – valid on successful completion: Basic Moped Training Course 125 – tricycles only (for licences issued before June 29, 2014)
And if someone with a Category B licence passed their test before January 1, 1997, they can drive a vehicle and trailer combination as heavy as 8,250kg.
The UK Government reports that zero emission vehicles are constructed to the “same high standards” as equivalent internal combustion engine vehicles.
However, they still advised drivers to ensure they are familiar with using the controls, as the zero emissions vehicles can “handle differently”.
Motorists are advised to practice driving the vehicle in a safe and controlled environment, especially before towing a trailer.
“When driving, you should understand how to safely manoeuvre the vehicle and trailer,” the DVSA said.
“If the trailer starts to snake or swerve, ease off the accelerator and reduce your speed gently.
“Do not brake harshly on a bend, as it makes the trailer unstable.”
While there won’t be any physical changes made to the Category B licence, the entitlement will apply to all motorists who hold it.
The Government offers an online service for checking your driving entitlements and what restrictions may apply.
It’s especially important for anyone unsure about their rights, particularly if they passed their driving test before licensing rules changed in 1997.
Drivers in Northern Ireland should note that licence categories may differ slightly and should check regional guidance.
The changes come at a time when the UK is encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles to meet its net zero targets.
GettyThe update will affect anyone who holds a Category B driving licence in the UK (stock image)[/caption]
4 days agoNews TalkComments Off on Keri Hilson Stripping Down Her Straps During BET Awards Performance Leaves Fans in Complete Confusion
The BET Awards delivered surprise performances and stunned viewers with the list of winners, but the whole event exploded after Keri Hilson caught fans off-guard with her shocking move. The annual awards night celebrates the talent of Black artists and other minorities in the field of music, film, sports, and philanthropy. This year’s host is comedian […]
This post belongs to FandomWire and first appeared on FandomWire
4 days agoNews TalkComments Off on Mayor of London Sadiq Khan is KNIGHTED by King Charles – despite furious critics slamming ‘reward for failure’
CRITICS have slammed the decision to award Sadiq Khan a knighthood as a “reward for failure”.
The controversial London Mayor, 54, sparked fury after he was knighted by King Charles during a ceremony at Buckingham Palace earlier today.
PASir Sadiq, who has been Mayor of the capital since 2016, received the honour for political and public service.[/caption]
ReutersHe told how he was “immensely proud” to receive the honour[/caption]
PABut critics fumed that the knighthood was a “reward for failure”[/caption]
Sir Sadiq, who has been Mayor of the capital since 2016, received the honour for political and public service.
Posting on social media after the ceremony, the former Labour MP for Tooting said: “The London promise. If you work hard, and get a helping hand, you can achieve anything.
“Immensely proud to receive a knighthood from His Majesty The King today.
“Growing up on a council estate in Tooting, I never could have imagined that I’d one day receive this great honour while serving as the Mayor of London.
“It’s a truly humbling moment for myself and my family, and one that I hope inspires others to believe in the incredible opportunities that our great capital offers.
‘I’ll forever be honoured to serve the city that I love – and will continue to do all I can to build a fairer, safer, greener and more prosperous London for everyone.”
But Tories have hit back against the decision, claiming that the former Labour MP for Tooting has not done enough to tackle violent crime in London.
Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp fumed that Londoners would be “furious his track record of failure is being rewarded”.
PAShadow Home Secretary Chris Philp claimed that Londoners would be “furious” about the decision.[/caption]
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Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
Never chases their losses
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