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Marian Diamond dead: Marian Diamond dead: Brookside and Lord of the Rings star dies suddenly

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British actress Marian Diamond has died aged 89. Her good friend friend and fellow actress Miriam Margoyles confirming the sad news in an emotional tribute on social media.

Miriam, who played Professor Sprout in several of the Harry Potter movies, revealed that Marian had died at University College Hospital in London on Monday, January 5.

Looking back fondly on their time working together, she wrote: “Alas, on my mind is the sudden death last Monday, of my dear friend, Marian Diamond, at UCH in London, aged 89.”

She added, “We first met in Edinburgh, I think in 1968 at the Traverse Theatre, and I loved her from then on. We worked together in radio after I joined the BBC Drama Rep. Company in 1965.

“She was one of the angels in our business, endlessly generous, interested in others and thrilled by their success. She was beautiful, gentle, full of fun, wise and perceptive.”

Miriam ended her heartfelt post saying: “I feel utterly bereft: a unique spirit has been taken very suddenly away from us. Her late sister, the casting director, Gillian Diamond and her close friend, the actor Hugh Dickson, both died in 2018. Gillian’s sons survive her. I hope they will share with her friends the funeral details. She deserves a full house. Marian, you’re held in my heart forever.”

The 84-year-old star was not the only friend to pay her respects after Marian’s death. Stage manager Paul Jackson also penned an emotional tribute, writing, “I am deeply saddened by the news that Miriam Margoyles posted, that my dear friend Marian Diamond died on the 5th January, aged 89. She was a great supporter of Play School and my archiving of the programme and we remained friends for 35 years.

He added, “Although I know she had been battling health issues in recent years, I was thrilled to see her in December 2024, when she joined Play School creator Joy Whitby, Phyllida Law (+Sophie Thompson) and Carol Chell at Riverside Studios, to view an exclusive showing of a previously “missing” episode from Thursday 12th August 1965, which she presented with Rick Jones.

“She was a gentle soul and did much work away from acting helping people. Will be sorely missed x”.

The late actress was well known for her distinctive voice roles in a host of BBC radio and television productions, including Play School. She also narrated a series of episodes for children’s classic Jackanory, working for the most part with C. S. Lewis books. She also voiced the part of ‘Lady of the Woods’ Galadriel in 1981 radio series adaptation of JR Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings.

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Amateur stuns world’s best to win A$1m in Melbourne

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Harry Poole

BBC Sport journalist
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Amateur player Jordan Smith would have been “happy winning just one point” – but walked away with A$1m (£496,835) and bragging rights over world number two Jannik Sinner as he triumphed at the Australian Open’s Million Dollar One Point Slam.

The innovative format offered amateur players the opportunity to win the prize money by playing a sole point against some of the sport’s top talent and other famous faces.

Smith was the star of the show on Rod Laver Arena, also defeating women’s world number four Amanda Anisimova in front of 10,000 people.

New South Wales state champion Smith was not the only amateur to seize his moment in the spotlight, with Queensland state champion Alec Reverente beating men’s world number seven Felix Auger-Aliassime.

As the two best performing amateurs, Smith and Reverente also went head-to-head to win a brand new car, with Reverente triumphing.

The tournament was played in good spirits – even a racquet smash by Kyrgios following his defeat was performed in good humour – and generated genuine intrigue.

    • 5 hours ago

Upsets, shocks and entertainment at Melbourne Park

The opening match set the tone for the evening when tennis coach Andres Schneiter knocked out men’s world number 34 Corentin Moutet.

The upsets kept on coming across the quick-fire format as fellow players offered enthusiastic support from the side of the court and the crowd rallied behind the underdogs.

Carlos Alcaraz and fellow players react after Daniil Medvedev loses a point at the Million Dollar One Point SlamGetty Images

Smith, meanwhile, did not need to hit a ball against Sinner after the men’s world number two failed to land his serve – with professionals only granted one opportunity to get it right.

He was not done there, following up victory over Anisimova by beating 71st-ranked Spaniard Pedro Martinez to set up his shot at the prize money.

“Coming into tonight I would have been happy winning just one point,” said the 29-year-old Smith, who won national titles as a junior.

“I was so nervous but enjoyed being out here, it was a great experience.”

Elsewhere, Sakkari ended Alcaraz’s bid after the top-ranked men’s player netted an attempted drop shot.

Jordan Smith celebrates with his trophy after winning the Million Dollar One Point SlamGetty Images

How did the Million Dollar One Point Slam work?

The event, held four days before the Australian Open starts on Sunday, featured a total of 48 competitors, including 24 top professionals.

Eight amateur winners of state championship rounds, eight players who qualified in Melbourne, and another eight wildcards – including celebrities and invited personalities – made up the rest of the competition.

Beginning with a game of ‘rock, paper, scissors’ to decide who serves, each match consisted of a single point, with the winner progressing in a knockout format.

The Australian Open held its inaugural One Point Slam event in 2025, but the prize fund was A$60,000 (£29,808) and Russia’s Andrey Rublev was the only top-10 player involved.

‘Roaring success for both underdog and tournament’

The Rod Laver Arena was packed for the Million Dollar One Point SlamGetty Images

Analysis by BBC Sport tennis news reporter Jonathan Jurejko

At the start of the night, Coco Gauff admitted she didn’t want to win the One Point Slam.

Instead, the two-time major singles champion wanted an amateur to take home the money. They would be more deserving of a sum which would change their life, she reasoned.

Smith, a reserved character who was genuinely lost for words as he was interviewed on court after each win, ended up being the beneficiary. A different future awaits. One as a new homeowner at the very least.

Remarkably, it was Smith who possessed the calmest demeanour in the place. He was unruffled by standing across the net from Sinner. He was unflustered by the sight of a box-full of replica cash sitting courtside. He was unperturbed as he traded with Garland from the baseline knowing the vast sum at stake.

Tournament director Craig Tiley insisted the boom-or-bust concept was a leveller between Grand Slams and grassroots.

The Million Dollar One Point Slam in pictures

Jannik Sinner watches at the Million Dollar One Point SlamGetty Images
Alexander Zverev shakes hands with Joanna Garland after losing to the 117th-ranked women's playerGetty Images
Frances Tiafoe and Marat Safin play rock, paper, scissors to decide who will serve Getty Images
Nick Kyrgios smashes his racquet after going out of the Million Dollar One Point Slam Getty Images
Jordan Smith celebrates winning the Million Dollar One Point SlamGetty Images

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    • 16 August 2025
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Trump’s neo-con turn on Iran

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On Saturday, just under two weeks into the protests that are now sweeping Iran, United States President Donald Trump took to his social media platform of choice to post a message of support: “Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!!! President DONALD J. TRUMP.”

As usual, Trump’s random capitalisation scheme and excessive use of exclamation points would better befit an elementary schoolchild than the leader of the global superpower. But the promise of American help is also problematic in far more significant ways.

For starters, “help” is not exactly a specialty of the US – and particularly not under the guidance of the man who bombed Iran just last summer, right after returning to power on a pledge to keep the US out of foreign wars.

Trump is furthermore responsible for maintaining a crippling sanctions regime against the Islamic Republic, thereby fuelling the high inflation that triggered the present protests in the first place. As is par for the course in such forms of economic warfare, the nonelite of Iran have paid the highest price.

In addition to constituting a departure from his whole “America First” premise, Trump’s recent offer of “help” to the Iranians marks a shift in presidential rhetoric vis-a-vis the much-maligned country. Previously, the Trumpian discourse mainly targeted Iran’s alleged pursuit of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles equipped with chemical and biological warheads – all of which were marketed as a dangerous threat not only to the US but also to America’s BFF and current regional partner in genocide, the state of Israel.

Now, however, Trump is in “rescue” mode, warning this month that “if Iran shots [sic] and violently kills peaceful protesters, which is their custom, the United States of America will come to their rescue.”

On Tuesday, Trump assured Iranian protesters that “help is on the way” without elaborating as to what this might consist of. Right-wing US media have pitched in with such encouraging headlines as “Trump has historic chance to help topple Iran’s America-hating regime.”

For his part, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has chimed in with the affirmation that Israel supports the Iranian protesters’ “struggle for freedom and firmly condemns the mass killings of innocent civilians” – quite the statement from someone who has been presiding over the genocide of Palestinians for more than two years.

With his recent promises of assistance, one can’t help but wonder if Trump isn’t taking a page from the old playbook of former US President George W Bush, the ex-“war on terror” chief and the face of an administration that was dedicated to propagating the very neo-conservative ideology to which Trump has long ostensibly been so vehemently opposed.

In essence, the neo-con objective is to wreak military havoc throughout the world using democracy promotion and other superficially nice ideas as an excuse for deadly imperial expansion. And while Trump successfully wooed many US voters with his alleged commitment to abandoning such pursuits in far-off lands in favour of total self-absorption and “making America great again”, it seems the neo-conservative impulse is hard to kick.

To be sure, Trump’s presidency recalls Bush’s in more ways than one. Both men possess clownish demeanours – not to mention an intriguing relationship with English grammar and spelling – that would be entirely amusing if not for the extensive bloodshed over which they have respectively presided.

Likewise, both men have proven disproportionately eager to invoke God as an ally in their destructive endeavours.

Despite Trump’s professed opposition to the policy of regime change and the Bush-era interventions in Iraq and Afghanistan – part of a “war on terror” that ultimately left millions of people dead – he has in his first year back in office managed to bomb an assortment of nations as well as kidnap the president of Venezuela, Nicolas Maduro.

Florida Congressman Randy Fine, who has just introduced a bill that would permit Trump to annex Greenland, has also taken to X to propose that “Maybe we should Maduro Khamenei.” In this case, “Khamenei” refers to Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei while “Maduro” functions as a brand-new verb for abducting the leader of a sovereign state.

But as Trump now promises that the US is “ready to help!!!” Iran, it’s worth thinking back on other instances of American “help!!!” in the country – like that time in 1953 that the CIA engineered a coup d’etat against democratically elected Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh, which set the stage for the long reign of the torture-happy shah of Iran, who was finally overthrown by the Iranian Revolution in 1979.

The late shah’s son, it so happens, is now conveniently agitating for US intervention from his position of gilded exile outside Washington, DC.

Meanwhile, Trump may have caught on to the perks of “helping” people in other countries as a means of distracting from certain antidemocratic realities at home – among them that the US has been converted into a full-fledged police state where immigration agents feel free to murder US citizens at will.

And as Trump continues semi-channeling Bush, pretty much the last thing Iranians need is for the US to “come to their rescue”.

Amateur Smith upsets Sinner to win ‘One Point Slam’ before Australian Open

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Amateur Jordan Smith sensationally upset a star-studded field to collect a 1 million Australian dollars (US$670,000) prize on Wednesday by winning the pressure-packed “One Point Slam” in advance of the Australian Open.

The innovative sudden-death contest at a sold-out Rod Laver Arena pitted 24 professionals led by Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff alongside 24 amateurs and celebrity wildcards.

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Each match consisted of just one point – win and you advanced, lose and you were out.

The 16 top-seeded professionals had first-round byes before the competition morphed into a Grand Slam-style knockout from the last-32 stage onwards.

Instead of a traditional coin toss, a game of “rock, paper, scissors” decided who served.

Crucially, the amateurs were allowed two serves, but any current ATP or WTA-ranked players only one.

Australia’s Smith, who qualified as the New South Wales champion, beat world number 117 Joanna Garland in the final, having upset Sinner and Amanda Anisimova along the way.

Taiwan number one Garland beat Alexander Zverev, Nick Kyrgios and Maria Sakkari.

“Coming in tonight, I was just happy to win one point,” said Smith, who planned to buy a house with his winnings.

“I was nervous, but I enjoyed being out here. Was a great experience.”

Jordan Smith celebrates his unlikely victory in the ‘One Point Slam’ [Graham Denholm/Getty Images]

Big names fall

Top-ranked Alcaraz fell to women’s world number 52 Sakkari, while three-time Australian Open finalist Daniil Medvedev was beaten by Anisimova before she was sent packing by Smith.

Swiatek lost to Spain’s Pedro Martinez.

The amateur field comprised winners of eight state championship rounds played across Australia, along with eight others who came through qualifying this week.

Eight wildcards went to celebrities, including Taiwanese singer Jay Chou.

“This event is the ultimate grassroots-to-Grand Slam experience,” Tennis Australia chief Craig Tiley told reporters.

“The AO One Point Slam is tennis at its most exciting – one point, one shot at glory. Fast, unfiltered and open to everyone.”

Where celebs like Molly-Mae and Alison Hammond really holiday – cheaper than you think

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Celebrities often fill their Instagram feeds with stunning sunny getaways, but their beach breaks might not be as expensive as you first thought – with some costing as little as £475 per person

Celebrities frequently showcase their glamorous sun-soaked escapes on Instagram as they jet off on lavish getaways. But their idyllic beach holidays might not cost as much as you’d imagine.

If you’re planning your summer break this year, you could follow in the footsteps of stars like Alison Hammond, Molly-Mae Hague and Harry Maguire. They’re all fans of European beach destinations where they unwind with family and friends – and you can too.

Travel expert @robonthebeach on TikTok has lifted the lid on exactly where celebrities choose to holiday and what it actually costs. While some famous faces spend more than others, many of the price tags are comparable to what ordinary holidaymakers fork out for their summer trips, reports the Express.

Rob confessed: “For the longest time, I’d see celebs tagged at these kinds of hotels and presume they’re just totally out of reach. But since I have started working in travel, I have realised that’s not the case.”

Alison Hammond

The This Morning presenter jetted off to Tunisia for a relaxing break with a friend, where she soaked up some well-deserved rest. Rob uncovered that she’d checked into the seafront Phenicia Hotel in the coastal resort of Hammamet.

He tracked down a package for seven nights this May costing just £475 per person – with both flights and accommodation included. Rob remarked: “The hotel’s beachfront, it has massive gardens, a pool area. This is exactly why Tunisia is such good value because this is a celeb hotel that is genuinely affordable.”

Laura Whitmore and Iain Sterling

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Celebrity duo Laura and Iain opted for a laid-back yet enjoyable family getaway in Tenerife, choosing to stay at the Bahia Principe Fantasia, according to travel expert Rob. He found a deal for a seven-night stay in April this year, costing between £850 and £900 per person, including flights and accommodation at the five-star hotel, which is renowned for its castle and all-inclusive package.

Harry Maguire

England football star Harry Maguire chose a stress-free holiday with his family in Turkey, staying at the Maxx Royal Belek Golf and Spa resort, as per Rob’s findings. The travel guru discovered a package departing from London in April this year, priced around £1,200 per person.

Rob admitted: “It’s not cheap, but the reason why is because this is elite level all-inclusive.” The resort boasts its own private beach, an extensive selection of dining options, and large swimming pools.

Molly-Mae Hague and Tommy Fury

Social media influencer Molly-Mae Hague and her boxer boyfriend Tommy Fury indulged in pure opulence and Instagrammable surroundings during their stay at the Regnum Crown Hotel in Turkey. For a seven-night stay in late April, prices range from £1,250 to £1,300 per person.

Rob noted: “Bare in mind this is full-blown luxury so that price isn’t actually that bad. We’re talking huge pools, top-tier entertainment, incredible all-inclusive.

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Emma Louise Connolly’s tailored pinstripe coat feels ‘very luxe and premium’ for under £100

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Emma Louise Connolly has found the perfect tailored coat at Marks & Spencer’s that she says ‘feels very luxe and premium’ – and you can still snap it up for just £90

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We’re still in the depths of winter, which means when it comes to getting dressed, your coat really is the whole outfit. If you’re after a new coat that’s smart and sophisticated enough to wear for the office or to formal events, but would still look great styled with jeans and trainers, then Emma Louise Connolly’s most recent purchase is just the thing.

The model shared her new Brushed Pinstripe Double Breasted Longline Coat on Instagram, saying: “Got a new M&S coat, feels v luxe and premium.” The chic tailored coat also won’t break the bank at £90, which is a steal considering how high end and expensive it looks.

READ MORE: Zara Tindall’s elegant Hobbs wool coat now has over £100 off but is selling fast

READ MORE: Claudia Winkleman’s cosy wool coat from The Traitors is still in stock in all sizes

Although it’s made from synthetic materials, the Brushed Pinstripe Double Breasted Longline Coat has a wool-looking brushed finish to it, and comes in charcoal grey with a subtle white pinstripe running through it. The double breasted button fastenings and lapel collars also give it that effortlessly stylish look.

Although this is a coat that looks elegant and smart enough to wear for work or over an evening dress, Emma proved how easy it is to dress it down so you can wear it every day, too. She styled her Brushed Pinstripe Double Breasted Longline Coat with a pair of knitted grey wide leg trousers, a cardigan and a pair of trainers for an easy, throw-on look.

As it’s new on the site, there’s currently only one review, which is a five star one saying: “Love this coat. Had so many compliments on it. I’ve worn it formally over a dress and also casually with jeans. So many compliments on this coat.”

The Brushed Pinstripe Double Breasted Longline Coat is selling out quickly on the Marks & Spencer website, with only sizes 10 to 16 still in stock and the site marking it as the number three best selling style in the coats and jackets section. However, as it’s a new-in design, we’re hoping more sizes will be restocked ASAP.

If you did miss out on your size though, there are some other great alternatives elsewhere that are still available to shop. At Boohoo, we found a brilliant bargain option with the Pinstripe Wool Look Oversized Maxi Coat which is £32 down from £65 and still in stock in sizes 10 to 16.

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Alternatively, Karen Millen’s Brushed Wool Pinstripe Oversized Double Breasted Tailored Maxi Coat is made from a 49% wool blend and is discounted from £499 to £250, although the code KMSALE15 will get you an additional 15% off. For a more similar price point to the M&S coat, this ASOS DESIGN Longline Wool Blend Funnel Neck Coat in Grey Pinstripe is £100, although stock is also selling quickly in that one too.