Amanda Holden declares ‘the sun is out, the skin is out’ as the heatwave returns to the UK, and this time she’s showing off her stunning legs in this ‘hipstery’ mini skirt
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Amanda Holden she shows off her legs in ‘really gorgeous hipstery’ mini skirt(Image: Amanda Holden/Instagram)
Amanda Holden is always showing off her outfits with fans, from formalwear to stunning casual looks, as she goes about her busy work life. And this week is no different. As she celebrates the return of warm, sunny weather, she donned a “really gorgeous” white mini skirt that’s perfect for summer weather.
The “hipster-y” mini skirt Amanda showcased is this Bouclé Belted Mini Skirt With Wool and Cotton in White from Reiss, which is currently stocked in all sizes at Reiss’ own store, Next and in most sizes at Selfridges.
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Amanda wore this Bouclé Belted Mini Skirt With Wool and Cotton in White(Image: Reiss)
Retailing for £110, the mini skirt Amanda hailed as “really gorgeous” and “hipster-y” is sure to be a sunny weather staple in any wardrobe this year, as it can seamlessly transition from day to night wear during the warmer months.
Made from a bouclé weave that lends this mini skirt a tactile finish and structured feel, this Reiss number comes with a matching belt that sits neatly at the waist for a figure-flattering and formal finish. The fringed hem that adds a soft effect adds to the bohemian vibes Amanda loved about the skirt.
This piece comes in sizes 4 to 18 and is equipped with side pockets to keep all of your essentials close to hand without the need for a bag if you’d rather leave the purse at home. It’s also fully lined to ensure a comfortable feel while you wear it.
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The slim-fit, mid-rise mini is perfect for wearing out to the beach, on a lunch date, on a night out or into work, with its versatile and understated style that lends itself to any aesthetic this summer.
Manchester City Football Club boss Pep Guardiola and midfielder Jack Grealish are thought to be in the mids of a feud, with rumours Jack is set to leave the club
Jack Grealish and Pep Guardiola were just metres away from one another
Feuding Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola and player Jack Grealish put their differences aside for one night – as they both went to see Oasis.
The pair reportedly are no longer seeing eye to eye and Grealish, 29, is set to leave the club before the start of the season.
And although the Gallagher brothers reunited for the Oasis tour, manager Pep, 54, and Jack kept their distance during the gig at Heaton Park for Friday night’s show. Although they were in the same VIP section, onlookers said they watched the show some distance apart.
An onlooker told the Mirror: “Jack and Pep were stood in the same VIP section of the Oasis gig but at complete opposite ends of the stand. Brummie Jack was in full spirits, belting every word while Pep seemed to be more family focussed. The pair didn’t interact with one another, at least publicly, but they both had a great night.”
Man City midfielder Jack Grealish was spotted in the VIP section(Image: Daily Mirror)
Pep, who attended the concert with his daughter Maria, is known to be a huge Oasis fan and Noel Gallagher even designed one of Manchester City’s kits last season. Noel has also been seen on the pitch with the team after winning titles.
Jack is also a big fan of Oasis and has led the team singing Wonderwall in the dressing room. Last month Pep left out playmaker Grealish out of Manchester City’s squad for the Fifa Club World Cup.
The former Aston Villa star joined City in 2021 and was a key part of Pep Guardiola’s Treble-winning side in 2022-23.However, he has struggled for regular playing time over the past two seasons and started just seven league games in 2024-25.
Man City boss Pep was also spotted in the VIP area of the Oasis gig(Image: Daily Mirror)
“Of course, Jack has to play,” Guardiola said in May. “He’s an unbelievable player that has to play football every three days.
“It didn’t happen this season and last season either. He needs to do it – with us or another place.
“It’s a question for Jack, his agent, and the club. If he stays it will be fine and he fought like he fought from day one to make a contribution.”
Yesterday we told how Spice girl Mel B is set to party with the Gallaghers by heading to the Oasis gigs this weekend – just a week after getting married.
Pep Guardiola hung out with the Gallaghers backstage(Image: genegallagher/Instagram)
The Spice Girl, known as Sporty Spice, is also understood to be among the VIPs on the guest list for the Heaton Park shows, at a time you traditionally would be on honeymoon.
One music insider said: “It just shows how big these gigs are that Mel is even considering an Oasis honeymoon. The Spice Girls and Oasis were two iconic parts of the Nineties though and she may fancy the chance to remember those times in the sunshine.”
Leeds born Mel married Rory McPhee at St. Paul’s Cathedral in London on Saturday. She wore a traditional white gown, adorned with pearls for the wedding, while her new husband Rory, 37, wore a traditional Scottish tartan kilt.
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Oasis, led by Noel and Liam Gallagher, performed their first shows for almost two decades in Cardiff last weekend to kick off a world tour. But this weekend they play their home town as part of five shows in front of 80,000 fans each night at Heaton Park over the next two weeks. The second gig was happening on Saturday/last night.
Oasis will again be supported at Heaton Park by Richard Ashcroft and Liverpool band Cast. Other guests at the Oasis Heaton Park shows this weekend are expected to include footballers from Manchester City and United. Noel Gallagher is staying at a hotel which is co-owned by Gary Neville.
Wales held on for a first international win in 644 days as they ended their 18-Test losing run by defeating Japan in Kobe.
The tourists levelled the series at 1-1 as they withheld a spirited second-half Japan comeback in the heat and humidity under the closed roof at the Noevir Stadium.
Wales had built up a 21-3 lead thanks to two tries from scrum-half Kieran Hardy and a Josh Adams score.
Just as they did in their win in Kitakyushu last weekend Eddie Jones’ side rallied, with tries from prop Shuhei Takeuchi, lock Warner Deans and centre Dylan Riley bringing the hosts to within two points.
Wales’ previous win was against Georgia in the 2023 World Cup, and it was a welcome victory in the fifth and final game in charge for interim head coach Matt Sherratt.
Cardiff head coach Sherratt, who took over from Warren Gatland during the Six Nations in February, and captain Dewi Lake were both emotional after the final whistle.
Gatland’s permanent successor will be unveiled by the Welsh Rugby Union in the next couple of weeks and will not now be burdened by the losing streak.
Creating and avoiding history
Following the tourists’ 24-19 defeat in Kitakyushu, Wales were trying to avoid history in Kobe, while Japan were attempting to create it.
Wales were aiming to not set a tier one record of 19 successive international defeats, surpassing the sequence of France between 1911 and 1920.
The Brave Blossoms were looking to secure a maiden series win against Wales and back-to-back wins against a tier one side for the first time ever.
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Wales start fast
It was a cagey opening period which was dominated by high kicks and handling errors.
The mediocrity was lifted by an Alex Mann turnover and piece of class from centre Ben Thomas, who released Blair Murray to set up Adams for the opening score, which Edwards converted.
Aaron Wainwright was a constant ball-carrying influence in the first half, while Japan’s first attack saw Ichigo Nakakusu and Halatoa Vailea release captain Michael Leitch, with Wales flanker Josh Macleod making a crucial tackle.
Wainwright was again Wales’ inspiration when his grubber kick was spilled by Adams with the try line begging as the greasy ball struck again.
It would not have counted because Macleod was penalised for a high tackle during the build-up, and Lee Seung-sin slotted the resulting kick to get the hosts on the scoreboard.
Wales started to dominate through their line-out drives, and the hosts’ number eight Faulua Makisi was shown a yellow card by referee Luke Pearce as they gave away a series of penalties.
Makisi’s infringement came in the build-up to Hardy burrowing over, after incisive work from Lake.
The improved Wales set-piece then set up the platform for Adams to show his class with a fine run that was finished by Hardy.
Japan coach Jones had seen enough and replaced his front row three minutes before half-time.
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Worth the wait
Ospreys wing Keelan Giles finally gained his first cap, nine years after first being involved in the Wales squad, when he came on for the injured Adams.
Wales lost two early line-outs to invite pressure as Japan again started the second-half looking far more threatening.
The hosts’ momentum was stopped by a Macleod turnover penalty which Edwards slotted over.
Wales were hampered by their indiscipline but Japan’s handling initially let them down before lock Deans burrowed over for a try.
Wales rung the changes which included a debut for Dragons prop Chris Coleman before a glaring drop from Edwards was pounced on by Riley who sprinted unopposed to score.
Centre Johnny Williams was forced off to instigate a major reshuffle which involved replacement scrum-half Reuben Morgan-Williams coming on for first cap.
Morgan-Williams and Hardy both spent stints on the wing with Tom Rogers moving into the centre.
Wales overcome humidity and heat
Wales suffered in the final quarter in the Kitakyushu conditions with Taulupe Faletau suffering heat-related cramps that ruled him out of the Kobe contest and players trying to stay cool by wearing ice hats.
The conditions meant World Rugby mandated water breaks in each half and an extended 20-minute half-time interval for both games.
The Noevir Stadium roof was closed which saw Wales triumph in temperatures topping 32C and 67% humidity outside.
Japan coach Jones labelled it “ironic” there had been a debate surrounding Wales and a roof being closed, referring to the Principality Stadium and similar issues that have taken place in games in Cardiff.
Japan tried to make the most of home advantage with mid-afternoon kick-off times dictated by the hosts despite the WRU asking for later starts.
Captain Michael Leitch said after the Kitakyushu win Wales were blowing in the latter stages and the red jerseys were suffering more than Japan.
Replacements: Hayate Era, Sena Kimura, Shuhei Takeuchi, Waisake Raratubua, Ben Gunter, Shinobu Fujiwara, Sam Greene, Kazema Ueda.
Wales: Blair Murray; Tom Rogers, Johnny Williams, Ben Thomas, Josh Adams; Dan Edwards, Kieran Hardy; Nicky Smith, Dewi Lake (capt), Archie Griffin, Freddie Thomas, Teddy Williams, Alex Mann, Josh Macleod, Aaron Wainwright.
Replacements: Liam Belcher, Gareth Thomas, Chris Coleman, James Ratti, Taine Plumtree, Tommy Reffell, Reuben Morgan-Williams, Keelan Giles.
Referee: Luke Pearce (RFU)
Assistant Referees: Karl Dickson (RFU), Damian Schneider (UAR)
Get the royal look without breaking the bank as this ‘very flattering’ polka-dot dress perfectly emulates one of Kate Middleton’s most iconic Wimbledon looks at a fraction of the cost
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Copy Princess Kate’s most iconic Wimbledon look with this polka-dot shirt dress(Image: Getty)
If there’s one pattern the Princess of Wales opts for time and time again, it’s the classic polka dot. She’s often seen donning it for various occasions, from the birth of her children to Wimbledon. Kate has a fondness for a polka-dot frock. Particularly, she’s sported a range of variations on the blue-with-white polka dots when it comes to dresses.
While most of us don’t have a Royal bank balance to splurge on Kate’s exact outfits, there is still a way to steal her style without breaking the bank. Over at L.K. Bennett, there’s a navy polka-dot midi dress that is perfect for emulating Kate Middleton’s iconic Wimbledon in 2022, making it an ideal choice right now as the Wimbledon Tennis Tournament gets underway.
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Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge attends The Wimbledon Men’s Singles Final on July 10, 2022(Image: Getty)
Copy Kate’s look with this Valerie Spring Navy & Birch Viscose Printed Viscose Shirt Dress With Belt(Image: L.K. Bennett)
Available at L.K. Bennett or from Marks & Spencer, this Valerie Spring Navy & Birch Viscose Printed Viscose Shirt Dress With Belt is the ideal piece for copying Kate’s fabulous Wimbledon ensemble. It comes in a wide range of sizes from 6 to 20, with regular and petite measurements available for those who aren’t graced with Kate’s height. This dress is also available in several shades, in case you fancy veering away from Kate’s traditional navy look.
Boasting the same strong shoulders as Kate’s noteworthy dress, this Valerie Shirt dress offers a formal, structured look that makes it an easy choice for days in the office or more highbrow events, whether you’re heading to the court side or meeting a client for lunch.
An LKB signature shirt dress ideal for spring and summer, this number seamlessly walks the line between smart and casual, ensuring it’s a wardrobe staple for any season. Crafted from a lightweight, floaty fabric that’s sure to keep you feeling the breeze during warmer weather, and coming in navy blue with a cream polka dot print, this piece has a long, rounded collar that adds a dash of timeless chic to any look.
With Kate’s go-to puff shoulders and short sleeves, this dress is a versatile pick in the sunnier seasons. It varies from Kate’s as it sports cream buttons, a buckled belt, and a back yoke, but matches her iconic look in its midi-length skirt. Wear it with your favourite heels or Kate’s beloved tennis shoes for a royal ensemble that can seamlessly work for any and all occasions this summer.
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One shopper who picked up this piece from M&S raves: “Lovely material. Looks as though it will not crease which is important to me! Very flattering style. Pricey but worth it!”
Taiwan has begun deploying its newest and most precise strike weapons, high calibre rockets from the United States, as part of its annual live-fire drills to increase the island’s ability to counter potential attacks from China.
On Saturday, two armoured trucks with High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) were seen manoeuvring around the city of Taichung near Taiwan’s central coast, on the fourth of 10 days of the Han Kuang exercise, its most comprehensive annual exercise, according to the Reuters news agency.
Military spokesperson Colonel Chen Lian-jia said it would be crucial to conceal the HIMARS from enemy aerial reconnaissance, satellites, “or even enemy operatives behind our lines” until the order to fire was given.
China considers Taiwan its own province and has long threatened to use force to bring it under Beijing’s control.
Over the past five years, China has increased pressure around the island, staging a string of intense war games and daily naval and air force patrols around the territory.
Earlier this week, China’s Ministry of National Defense said the Han Kuang drills were “nothing but a bluffing and self-deceiving trick”. China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs added that its opposition to US-Taiwan military ties was “consistent and very firm”.
On Thursday, Taiwanese President William Lai Ching-te said the exercises were being conducted based on “large-scale, realistic combat drills”.
Last year, Taiwan received the first 11 of the 29 HIMARS units, testing them for the first time in May.
The weapons, which have a range of about 300km (190 miles), have the potential to strike coastal targets in China’s southern province of Fujian on the other side of the Taiwan Strait.
While the United States, Taiwan’s biggest supplier of imported defensive weaponry, is bound by law to consider threats to the country as a “major concern”, it remains unclear if Washington, DC, under President Donald Trump’s administration, would deploy forces to counter a possible Chinese attack.
Reuters reported, quoting unnamed senior Taiwanese military officials, that the drills were unscripted and designed to replicate full combat conditions, starting with simulated enemy attacks and invasion scenarios.
Before the big names of Chelseaand Paris St-Germain were going head-to-head in a bid to become champions of the world, an amateur side from County Durham once vied to do the same.
West Auckland Town, of the Northern League Division One, the ninth tier of the English football league structure, are recognised as the first world champions by Fifa.
They earned that crown more than 100 years ago, in 1909, but it is a badge of honour the club have worn with immense pride ever since.
But how exactly did an amateur side, made up of coal miners, end up representing England in a global football tournament?
Sir Thomas Lipton Trophy
Twenty-one years before Uruguay lifted the first Fifa World Cup, there was another attempt to create a global football tournament, with clubs rather than countries.
Sir Thomas Lipton, philanthropist and creator of Lipton Ice Tea, created a football competition that saw Europe’s elite face off against each other.
With the competition set to be held in Turin, Italy, invitations were sent to the football associations of England, Germany, Italy and Switzerland – the predominant powerhouses of the game – with all but the English FA accepting the offer to send one of their best teams to take part.
Germany and Switzerland sent their respective champions, Stuttgart and Winterthur, while Italy sent a combined Turin and Piemonte side.
Not wanting to see England go unrepresented at the tournament, Lipton turned his attention to the Northern League and West Auckland Town.
Why exactly the amateur outfit were chosen is a much speculated subject but, according to local historian Martin Connolly, there are a couple of possible scenarios.
“The myth was that Sir Thomas Lipton had asked for Woolwich Arsenal Football Club, WAFC, and his secretary made a mistake, but my research shows that is not correct,” he told BBC Real Time in 2014.
“The Northern League was one of the oldest leagues in England with fantastic teams and it’s thought that Bishop Auckland might have been the target – but, in fact, West Auckland got the invite.”
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The journey to becoming champions
West Auckland’s players had to pay money out of their own pockets to make the trip, with some reportedly having to sell furniture and other belongings to afford it.
But they jumped at the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
They journeyed by bus to Darlington, caught a train to London, before hopping on a ferry to Calais in France and then travelled on to northern Italy, to face German champions Stuttgart. A surprise 2-0 win to set up the final against Swiss side FC Winterthur.
Again, West Auckland notched a 2-0 victory to cement themselves as world champions without even conceding a goal.
“In terms of achievement, this rates as about the best ever,” said Connolly.
“When you consider that a mining team, people from the pit, come up out of the pit, go to Turin and beat some of the best teams in the world. Achievement? Major.”
Two years later, West Auckland were invited back to defend their trophy – as is only right.
And, incredibly, they won the lot again.
This time around, Torino and Juventus both took part in the tournament and the amateurs from England faced them both.
They edged past Torino 3-2 on Easter Sunday to set up a final against future Italian giants Juventus.
A sale and a theft
It wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows for West Auckland.
Upon their return home from their second triumph in 1911, the club barely had time to show off their beloved trophy because of financial issues.
Within a year of returning to the north-east, the prize had been sold to a local landlady for £40 to help West Auckland pay off debts.
She held it for 48 years, before selling the trophy back to the club in 1960 for £100.
The club displayed the trophy in the West Auckland Working Men’s Club and it remained there until January 1994 – when it was stolen.
The original trophy has never been found. Instead, the club now owns an exact replica.
Robert Yorke
The home of the first World Cup
Should you ever find yourself driving into West Auckland, you will be met by road signs reading: “Welcome to West Auckland – Home of the First World Cup.”
There is also a commemorative bronze statue of the victory that has stood proudly on the town’s green since its completion in 2013.
More than £200,000 was raised to ensure the statue could be completed and erected near the stadium where West Auckland Town now play their matches.
Robert Yorke was County Councillor for West Auckland when local government reorganisation was implemented in 2008 and said he felt it important to celebrate the “outstanding sporting achievement of West Auckland FC”.
“We quickly set about raising funds from local events as well as writing to various arts groups and foundations for donations,” Yorke explained.
“Everybody in the village participated and this highlighted how important an achievement this was within our community.”
While the story of West Auckland may not be as famous as that of Uruguay 1930, Yorke remains defiant on his answer of who the real first World Cup winners are.
He added: “Although the story of West Auckland FC winning the first World Cup is largely known within County Durham, it’s not well known outside the area.
“It was such an achievement back in 1909 for these footballers to raise the money and then travel to Europe to play and then win the world’s first football tournament.
