Category Entertainment News

Before a performance at Co-op Live in Manchester, Massive Attack, which consists of bandmates Robert “3D” Del Naja and Grant “Daddy G” Marshall, criticised Barclays in a statement.

Massive Attack have criticised Barclays and shared their views, claiming it is an “unethical corporate identity” ahead of a gig at a venue sponsored by the company this week. The band were set to take to the stage at Co-op Live in Manchester before they made the statement.

It follows the news of a partnership between the indoor arena and Barclays last month. Two weeks ago, it was announced that the bank has become a “founding partner” of Co-op Live, which opened in the city last year.

Massive Attack – comprised of Robert ‘3D’ Del Naja and Grant ‘Daddy G’ Marshall – hit out over the partnership in a statement shared on Instagram just hours before their concert at the venue last night. They referenced both fossil fuel extraction and Palestine, and accused Barclays of being a “profoundly unethical corporate identity”.

The band, which is renowned for songs like Teardrop and Unfinished Sympathy, however, stated that the performance would continue. They informed the audience that the organizers had agreed to take away Barclays advertising material from the arena in exchange for it.

The band stated in a statement shared with their 401, 000 followers, “We’re so happy to be back in Manchester, and we’re playing in this city tonight. We confirmed this performance at Co Op Live Arena in January, not least because of the venue’s strong commitment to sustainability and its ethical sponsorship.

They continued by writing: “15 days ago, without any advance warning or notification, the arena ownership announced a new corporate sponsorship with Barclays: a commercial identity synonymous with the large-scale financing of new fossil fuel extraction, and billions of dollars of investments in arms companies that supply Israel in its genocidal onslaught of Gaza, and war crimes in the West Bank.

Objectively speaking, Barclays is a deeply unethical corporate identity. We think Barclays should not be involved in any of our cultural or sporting arenas, but rather, we have been taught (with disbelief) about the partnership through a local media story.

Massive Attack continued, “We do not want to disappoint fans who have purchased their hard-earned money in tickets and are anticipating the show, especially on such a short notice. Owners of Co Op Live have consented to us requiring that all Barclays livery and logos, both physically and digital, be completely removed from both the arena and our show page on the arena website. No show tickets will be offered to Barclays, either for sale or for free.

The band’s statement concluded: “At a time when the world works to tackle climate emergency, and watches on in despair and horror at the scenes of civilian slaughter in Gaza, we’re stunned that the arena ownership took this decision to partner with Barclays – especially in a progressive city like Manchester – and then attempted to retroactively apply that sponsorship to artists who would have been deeply uneasy, or refused to align their performances with a venue with Barclays as partner. See you tonight, Manchester. In love and rage, Massive Attack.”

Massive Attack shared posts promoting the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty, an initiative to “accelerate a transition to renewable energy,” shortly after posting their statement. In addition to posting a photo of themselves holding up a sign for it while they were in Manchester, they also posted a photo of themselves.

Among the group of five was Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester. The band wrote in the caption of the photo: “Proud to be part of this story: endorsing the [initiative] with Mayor of Greater Manchester [Andy].”

Co-Op Live previously stated that it was “leading the future of sustainable live entertainment with Massive Attack.” It stated on a page for the show that it would commit to having a “fully plant-based” menu for the show in keeping with the band’s long-standing commitment to environmental activism.

After being in line for the award for more than ten years, David Beckham will finally be knighted next week as part of the King’s birthday celebrations. We want to hear what you think.

David Beckham will finally be awarded with a knighthood in the King’s Birthday Honours list next week after years of public calls – and we want to hear your thoughts on the news. The Manchester United icon will officially become a Sir and join a host of other football legends who have been honoured by the Royal Family, reports The Sun.

The former England star, who recently turned 50, serves as an ambassador for The King’s Foundation and has continued to make notable donations to charity. He has developed a friendship with the King, who hinted at last month’s Chelsea Flower Show that David’s honour was finally on its way.

Charles responded, “You got it, didn’t you?” Beckham responded, “Thank you, it was incredible. It was very kind. Victoria, his wife, will go by the name Lady Beckham. It comes after David received an OBE in 2003 for his contributions to football.

Becks, who played 115 times for England, was first put forward for a knighthood in 2011 following his role in securing the London 2012 Olympics – but was blocked by the Honours Committee after he became embroiled in a tax avoidance scheme, which he was cleared of four years ago. The now Inter Miami co-owner had been kept waiting in his bid to earn a knighthood, with Beckham narrowly missing out in the New Year Honours List published in December last year, the Sun reports.

Beckham’s anger at the New Years’ honours committee and possible setbacks in his quest for knighthood were revealed in shocking emails released in 2017. The former midfielder has claimed some of the emails leaked were fakes, but the football star is said to have called the committee “unappreciative c***s” and added that he “didn’t care about being knighted.”

According to the emails that were leaked, the former football player said, “I expected nothing less. To be honest, this is a disgrace, and ten years ago, I would have acquired something like this. Katherine Jenkins, an opera star, was reportedly hit by him after receiving an OBE. What does Katherine Jenkins OBE stand for? attending the rugby and seeing the soldiers. F***ing joke”.

A close friend of Beckham exclusively told The Mirror in 2017: “To be honest, he does feel that he has given so much to his country. And sometimes you say things in private that anyone would say and you don’t really mean it. While he was frustrated in those emails, he was over it the moment he sent them. Getting the knighthood is not what his work is about. He doesn’t care if he gets a knighthood or not.”

Beckham’s appointment as an ambassador for King’s Foundation, which earlier this year was viewed as a positive sign, was welcomed with a new role. He added at the time, “I’m thrilled to be working with The King’s Foundation and have the opportunity to help raise awareness of the charity’s work.”

I’ve always been interested in helping young people broaden their horizons, and I’m particularly interested in supporting the Foundation’s education initiatives and efforts to give young people greater access to nature.

Following the announcement that Beckham will be awarded with a knighthood next week, we want to know if you think the football legend deserves the honour. Vote in our poll HERE to have your say.

The Mirror will also be discussing the topic with you in the comments section below and you can join in! All you have to do is sign up, submit your comment, register your details and then you can take part.

READ MORE: Amazon rivals Argos deal on multi-charging stand for Nintendo Switch 2 controllers

A long serving BBC presenter has emotionally revealed they are taking a break from their radio show after receiving an ‘incredibly rare’ cancer diagnosis earlier this year

A BBC presenter has revealed they need to take time away from their radio show following a cancer diagnosis. In an emotional message, Bryan Burnett told listeners he has an “incredible rare” cancer.

He has worked for the BBC for 15 years and is best known for hosting Get it On programme on BBC Radio Scotland during weekdays from 6pm. Bryan revealed he had been diagnosed with appendiceal cancer earlier this year.

According to the NHS, appendix tumours are unusual and account for 0.4% of all cancers of the bowel. Bryan will have treatment including chemotherapy and abdominal surgery.

As he takes time away from his show, colleague Grant Stott will fill in for him. In an emotional update, Bryan told his listeners: “This is gonna be my last show for a wee while and I want to explain why that is.

“Unfortunately, I’m gonna have to take some time off the show to have some treatment for cancer. When they removed my appendix recently, they discovered a tumour and appendix cancer is incredibly rare but the good news is it is treatable but I do have to have some fairly hefty abdominal surgery next week.”

Detailing what he has been through, the presenter added: “I’ve experienced the most incredible care and kindness from the NHS staff who have been looking after me. My surgeon is a Get it On listener so I know I’m in good hands.

“I will really miss the music and the chat when I’m off but our listeners have given me hundreds of great playlists so that will keep me going over the next few months.”

He concluded: “I want to take this opportunity to say a massive thank you to all my brilliant producers for all the hand holding and all the encouragement they’ve given me since they found out my news. I’m sure they’ll let you know how I’m doing over the next few weeks.”

Brian started his career at Northsound Radio in Aberdeen and went on to present the Top 40 chart show for Radio Clyde in Glasgow.

He presented Brand New Country and won the International Broadcaster of the Year at the Country Music Association awards in 2005.

The radio star has also appeared on TV and has presented shows for Scottish Television such as Passport Quiz, Red Amber Green and Scottish Passport. Despite his health, Brian recently hosted the GCC awards and shared highlights on his social media.

He said: “Hosting the #gccawards tonight. A chance to celebrate the incredible people who keep our NHS running.”

The Macmillan Support Line offers confidential support to people living with cancer and their loved ones. If you need to talk, call us on 0808 808 0000.

READ MORE: Shoppers say back ache ‘is gone’ with this ‘god send’ memory foam mattress, now £230 off

Australian model and architect Bianca Censori has proved that she’s persisting in stripping off naked and showing off her body despite risking arrest for her indecent public exposure

Bianca Censori has once again wore an x-rated outfit with intention to shock fans – but the 30-year-old could be at risk of arrest for yet another controversial outfit choice. Bianca, who was made famous by tying the knot with husband Kanye West, 47, stepped out and left very little to the imagination in a pair of sheer pantyhose and a see-through black fishnet top.

After shocking Spanish locals last month when she strolled the markets with her breasts on full-display, Bianca has showed no signs of covering up as she took to Instagram on Friday to share three seperate images of herself standing in the street in the fully see-through ensemble.

The Australian model and architect styled her black locks in a an edgy wolfe-cut and topped off the head-turning look with a pair of oversized sunglasses as she posed with her hands behind her back and her legs spread apart. Naturally, after sharing the three snaps, fans flocked to the comment section to discuss her latest outfit – or lack thereof.

“God, I’ve just opened the Instagram app to see this,” one quipped. “Sometimes less really isn’t more,” another joked. Someone else complained: “This girl needs to realise that there’s much more to women than showing off every inch of your body in such a vulgar way. Where is the class and decorum? Not a good look.”

Elsewhere, another Instagram user echoed: “She’s such a beautiful woman but she doesn’t need all this to stay relevant. It’s really sad to see actually.” However, others disagreed as they gushed: “Bianca is the hottest woman alive and Kanye is the luckiest man on Earth.”

Her latest look comes after the model ‘horrified’ locals during a recent trip to Spain after baring her breasts. Kanye was seen out and about at a Spanish market with his wife, who left onlookers concerned with her ensemble. Witnesses said locals were left horrified by Bianca’s outfit choice for their market tour, with one even heard asking if that was her “real nipple” as she bared all in her the sheer bra.

The model wore a black fishnet style bra top, baring her nipples and leaving others in the market horrified as they visited the market in Mallorca. The pair were enjoying a break away in Spain where they browsed together at the market.

Of course, it’s not the first time Bianca has sparked outrage with her outfit choices. She attended the Grammy Awards ceremony back in February alongside Kanye West. She shocked photographers on the red carpet when she dropped her fur coat to reveal the naked dress. The stunt caused a mass reaction with fans sharing their concern for Bianca’s welfare, with some claiming Kayne forced her to do it.

The rapper has since bragged about the viral look, which seemed to be a nod to the album cover of Kanye’s 2024 album, Vultures. He took aim at the award’s show as he said: “We beat the Grammies.” Kanye also boasted: “For clarity February 4th 2025 My wife is the most Googled person on the planet called Earth.”

Months after the controversial red carpet stunt, Bianca has still remained quiet amid the backlash and concern over how much choice she had in the the shocking act.

On the red carpet on the night, Kanye appeared to compliment Bianca but then appeared to tell her: “You’re making a scene now.” Bianca nodded silently in response, before Kanye urged her on: “Make a scene, I’ll say it’ll make so much sense.”

Bianca nodded again, and then Kanye gave her the cue to drop her coat, saying: “Drop it behind you and then turn, I got you.” To which Bianca replied: “Alright let’s go,” as interpreted by the a lip reading expert.

At the time, experts claimed that Bianca risked getting arrested for her display of ‘indecent exposure’. According to California Penal Code 314(1), indecent exposure is defined as “when a person exposes his or her naked body or genitals in front of anyone who could be annoyed or offended by it.”

It also stipulates that the act must be “willful and lewd” to be considered a crime. To be found guilty, a person must “intentionally expose your genitals or naked body; expose yourself in front of someone who might be offended or annoyed by it; intend to direct attention to yourself; and intend to sexually gratify yourself or offend someone else when you do it.”

Follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads.

READ MORE: Stacey Solomon has an innovative solution to creating vintage-inspired plant pots this spring

Kate Garraway may have found the perfect summertime outfit thanks to her stunned, Karen Millen suit, which fans praised as “so gorgeous and stunning.”

Kate Garraway’s suit might be the ideal outfit for this time, whether you’re attending a summer wedding abroad or a baby shower. Karen Millen’s eye-catching outfit created a stir among Kate’s fans, with many leaving comments on the designer’s social media accounts expressing their admiration for it.

Kate’s Karen Millen look might just be the solution to your summer wardrobe woes. If you want to copy Kate’s style, you might want to act quickly because both the blazer and trousers are currently available in nearly all sizes.

This cutting-edge £24 priming facial roller, according to Molly-Mae, sculpts and brightens her skin.

A 20% saving is available for Meghan Markle-loved glow-boosting serum that makes “fine lines invisible.”

The Karen Millen Wide-Leg Blazer and matching Wide-Leg Trousers are currently available for purchase. The blazer is now priced at £179.40, down from £299, and is available in a monochrome colorway or pastel blue and vibrant pink. Similar to this, the trousers are available for a reduced price of £119.40, down from £199.

A bold botanical print is a striking contrast to a light background in this stunning floral blazer, which exudes sophistication. For a coordinated appearance that oozes confidence and modern elegance, pair it with Kate’s matching pair of pants. For a sophisticated and elegant ensemble, wear it with your favorite pair of white shoes and pointed court shoes for formal events.

The feminine silhouette combines a classic charm with a contemporary twist, making it ideal for women who value meticulous attention to detail and eye-catching design. A single-breasted front closure and chic notched lapels give this sophisticated blazer an impressive visual impact. The well-made structure is displayed in the regular fit, keeping the wearer’s silhouette clean throughout.

The same artistic floral arrangement is used to transform a conventional silhouette into something truly remarkable. The generous, wide leg cut offers both elegance and comfort, while the high-waisted design creates a lengthening effect, which is ideal for those with shorter legs.

These trousers feature a crepe fabric that moves beautifully with each step, giving it a graceful shape that can be easily transitioned from day to night. They represent occasion dressing at its most artistic. They are bold enough to stand alone but elegant enough for the most prestigious gatherings.

Kate Garraway’s followers were full of praise for the outfit, taking to the Instagram comments to share their sentiments, like: “Couldn’t keep my eyes off that suit this morning! Looking stunning Kate!” Another fan writes: “Kate, you look incredible in that suit!”

This commenter exclaims, “So gorgeous and stunning, lovely suit with lovely smile, lovely picture, and… And this fan says, “You look absolutely gorgeous”!

Football icon David Beckham’s long wait for a knighthood is finally over and it seemed he knew for some time as King Charles asked a very cryptic question last month

David Beckham’s wishes have finally come true as King Charles is making him a Sir in his Birthday Honours. After years of waiting and trying, the former England footballer, 50, will soon be able to add the title to his name.

He was bypassed for a knighthood by the late Queen for decades, sparking much speculation over the years as to why he hadn’t picked up the title. Year after year, David had been notably absent from the honours list.

In 2013, it seemed his chances were dashed when explosive emails were leaked where he reportedly lashed out at the Honours Committee for not including him, referring to them as “unappreciative c***s.”

However, the tables have finally turned for David and he will finally get his honour next week. It seems he knew about the move for a while as King Charles ‘ cryptic comment to David now makes sense.

David Beckham knighted] yet because A, he’s not old enough and B, he hasn’t earned his stripes yet and C, he’s still in a very commercial world.”

Paul added: “He’s obviously been fast tracked for a knighthood, but not just yet and they’re keeping him just dangling for a while. Because, you know, they’re waiting to see what happens.

“I think he is an excellent ambassador, not only for charitable foundations, but for our country. I think he’s shown his worth, and I’m expecting it. Of course it’s going to happen. The question is, when.”

He explained it was all just a matter of time for David and shared: “When will the King finally say it’s time for David to receive his knighthood? I think he has to put some more work into the King’s Trust, and I think he’ll be seen many more times with the King and William before that honour comes his way.”

It seems Paul was completely right as just a little time later, David has now secured the elusive title. David’s representative slammed the 2013 email reports, accusing them of being misleading and based on manipulated content.

At the time, it was claimed he was particularly incensed by opera singer Katherine Jenkins receiving an honour, allegedly retorting: “Katherine Jenkins OBE for what? Singing at the rugby and going to see the troops. F****** joke.”

Article continues below

A close pal of Beckham later spoke to the Mirror about the incident, revealing that although David regretted the messages, they were sent “in the heat of the moment”. The friend said: “Genuinely, he wasn’t as vitriolic as that, but you do say some things in private and in the heat of the moment.

“To be honest, he does feel that he has given so much to his country. And sometimes you say things in private that anyone would say and you don’t really mean it. While he was frustrated in those emails, he was over it the moment he sent them. Getting the knighthood is not what his work is about. He doesn’t care if he gets a knighthood or not.”

READ MORE: Vet tells dog owner ‘prepare for the worst’ but 89p-a-day ‘improved condition 100%’