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Amanda Holden rates her fave BGT looks including a dress so revealing it ‘almost won most Ofcom complaints of the year’

AMANDA Holden is well-known for wowing Britain’s Got Talent viewers with her stylish statement outfits.

Admitting she tends “to go all out,” she’s rated her most iconic looks over the years – including a cheeky low cut black dress that she says nearly won her the most “Ofcom complaints of the year” award.

Amanda Holden in a low-cut, embellished green dress.
Amanda’s cheeky dress caused controversy among viewers
Instagram / @noholdenback
Amanda Holden waving on Britain's Got Talent.
She joked it nearly helped her to win “Ofcom award of the year”
Splash News

Starring in a video posted to Britain’s Got Talent’s YouTube account, Amanda rated her outfits for their 20.7 million subscribers.

Ofcom controversy

Groaning in laughter, she looked at an extremely revealing Julian McDonald dress, which she says was “held together with a piece of fish wire” across her chest.

The flashy number had caused quite a stir when she wore it for the series 11 semi-final in 2017.

“I stand by that dress, I still would wear it to this day – although I doubt I’d get into it,” Amanda laughed.

Lady in red

Beaming at one of her “favourite looks ever,” Amanda looked back at a gorgeous red gown she donned for the series 3 final in 2009.

The stunning dress was designed by Australian designer Tamara Ralph of Ralph and Russo and featured a slinky fitted body, fishtail hem and statement diamante bow.

Amanda Holden in a red gown at the Britain's Got Talent final.
The judge felt like a “giant sweetie” in this gorgeous red gown
Rex Features

Amanda laughed as she admitted she felt like a “giant sweetie.”

She said she’d been stitched directly into the dress, which left her unable to sit down all evening and perched on the edge of her seat during judging.

“But I didn’t care, because I looked snatched,” she joked.

Skintight

Another outfit that left viewers breathless was the jaw-dropping pink latex dress she wore for the series 15 auditions, which she paired with a glam pair of pink stilettos.

Amanda joked that she reckons the skin-tight dress caused her to “lose half a stone in sweat that day,” but said that she “loved it.”

Amanda Holden in a pink dress arriving at Britain's Got Talent auditions.
Amanda loved this cheeky pink look, although admitted it got quite sweaty
Getty

The TV personality told viewers about a seamstress who works behind-the-scenes on BGT, who takes care of any alterations needed by the star-studded judging panel.

She said the seamstress had painstakingly hand-stitched every single jewel into the dress, for her to wear for the season 15 semi final in 2022.

Amanda Holden on Britain's Got Talent.
She thanked the Britain’s Got Talent seamstress for painstakingly sewing on every single jewel to this dress
Rex Features

Describing the dress as both “epic” and “heavy,” Amanda said she also “loved” this one too.

Amanda’s Madonna moment

Revealing her favourite outfit of all time which emphasised her “muscley arms like Madonna,” Amanda gushed over her outfit for the series 17 final in 2024.

The gorgeous statement dress featured a black bodice with a racy low-cut neckline and mesh skirt.

Amanda Holden at the Britain's Got Talent final.
This Madonna-esque outfit was her all-time fave
Rex Features

Also in her throwback looks were her series 2 finals Union Jack dress, which Amanda said was “obviously trying to emulate” Ginger Spice and her gorgeous series 5 live performance outfit honouring her role of Princess Fiona in the West End production of Shrek.

Amanda Holden at Britain's Got Talent semi-final.
The star said she felt very “angelic” in this white gown
Rex Features

And in a moment that she said was even “more terrifying” than performing live as Princess Fiona, Amanda recalled the time she sang her own song ‘Not While I’m Around’ live on the Britain’s Got Talent stage.

For her performance, she donned a stunning long-sleeve white gown, which she said made her look “very innocent and angelic.”

20 Best Family/ Saturday Night Shows Ever

1.  Strictly Come Dancing
2. Britain’s Got Talent
3. I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!
4. The Generation Game
5. Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway
6. Great British Bake Off
7.  X Factor
8. Gladiators
9. Noel’s House Party
10. The Crystal Maze
11. Family Fortune
12. The Voice
13. Top of the Pops
14. Race Across the World
15. Michael McIntyre’s The Wheel
16. The Masked Singer
17.  You’ve Been Framed
18. Blind Date
19. The Traitors
20. Dancing on Ice

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‘Save money AND stay comfortable’ – Driving pro reveals 20p hack to banish mould from your car in damp winter months

An image collage containing 2 images, Image 1 shows Handyman vacuuming car back seat with vacuum cleaner, Image 2 shows Stock photo depicts a neglected car interior featuring damp, mouldy seats, showcasing the impact of humidity and poor ventilation. The presence of a dehumidifier emphasizes the urgent need for moisture control to combat fungal growth and restore a healthier environment

A DRIVING pro has revealed a 20p hack to banish mould from your car in the damp winter months.

The pro revealed this unlikely pet product acts as a dehumidifier.

Stock photo depicts a neglected car interior featuring damp, mouldy seats, showcasing the impact of humidity and poor ventilation. The presence of a dehumidifier emphasizes the urgent need for moisture control to combat fungal growth and restore a healthier environment
Mould can build up in damp, unclean areas
Getty Images
Handyman vacuuming car back seat with vacuum cleaner
To prevent mould it is important to regularly clean your car
Getty Images

Drivers wanting to prevent the mould from forming in the first place should consider this hack, Darren Miller, from the vehicle buying service BigWantsYourCar.com, suggests.

The trick is to place a full sock of cat litter on the car windscreen and allow it to soak up the moisture in the air.

By soaking up the moisture it will prevent mould from forming as once it appears, it can be difficult to get rid of.

Cat litter can be bought from Amazon for as little as £3.19 for a 4L bag.

Add a small scoop to a sock and it could cost you just 20p.

AIR CONDITIONING

Darren also recommends regularly running the air conditioning system to prevent mould.

He explained: “Effective use of your vehicle’s heating and air conditioning systems is a strategic approach to controlling interior moisture levels.

“These systems are not merely for comfort; they are important for maintaining a dry and mould-free environment.”

For those already experiencing minor instances of mould using cleaning cloths can be surprisingly effective.

So long as the driver and/or passengers can face the winter chill outside.

AVOID EATING AND DRINKING

Another hack the driving pro revealed is to minimise eating and drinking in your car.

He said: “Minimising eating and drinking inside vehicles significantly reduces the likelihood of mould.

“Even minor spills and crumbs can create an environment for mould growth.

“This is because organic materials and liquids provide the perfect breeding ground for mould. In the event of spills, immediate cleanup is important.”

WATER DAMAGE

Another issue, repeatedly overlooked is dealing with water damage quickly.

The key problem area is he scuttle panel below the windscreen wipers, Darren explained.

This area is important for water drainage but can often get clogged up with leaves, flower petals, and other debris, causing water to back up, which can then enter the air conditioning and heating systems,” he said.

“Water damage can quickly escalate into a mould problem if not addressed, emphasising the importance of monitoring for leaks and ensuring proper vehicle maintenance.”

The expert listed signs of water damage, including damp carpets, a musty smell, or water stains.

“These can also often be the first sign of a more serious issue, such as a leaky sunroof or door seal, which requires immediate repair to prevent mould,” Darren added.

He advised regular checks and drainage of these areas.

SIGNS AND RISKS OF MOULD

Signs you have mould in your car:

  • A persistent musty odur
  • Visible mould growth on upholstery, carpets or other interior surfaces
  • Increased allergy symptoms

Mould spores can be potentially hazardous, causing or worsening respiratory issues and allergic reactions.

“It’s important to be aware of the dangers that mould can pose to your health and keep an eye out for any signs of it in your vehicle,” said Darren.

“Checking your car regularly for signs of moisture or mould, even in places you can’t easily see, like under the seats or carpets, is key to maintaining a healthy environment inside your car and avoiding expensive cleaning fees.”

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Premier League’s worst spenders revealed with Man Utd spending FOUR TIMES as much as Liverpool on flop signings

SURPRISE, surprise Manchester United are the Premier League’s worst spenders – and the club have absolutely nothing to show for it.

In fact, United’s horrendous recruitment decisions are one of the main reasons that the club—who sit 15th in the Prem—is going through their worst period since the 1973-74 relegation campaign.

Ruben Amorim looking dejected after a soccer match.
Reuters
Ruben Amorim has inherited an expensively poor squad[/caption]
Soccer Football - Premier League - Liverpool v Luton Town - Anfield, Liverpool, Britain - February 21, 2024 Liverpool's Cody Gakpo celebrates scoring their second goal with Luis Diaz, Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch REUTERS/Molly Darlington NO USE WITH UNAUTHORIZED AUDIO, VIDEO, DATA, FIXTURE LISTS, CLUB/LEAGUE LOGOS OR 'LIVE' SERVICES. ONLINE IN-MATCH USE LIMITED TO 45 IMAGES, NO VIDEO EMULATION. NO USE IN BETTING, GAMES OR SINGLE CLUB/LEAGUE/PLAYER PUBLICATIONS.
Prem leaders Liverpool are 10th on the spending list after clever transfer movements

To make matters worse, the Red Devils have spent FOUR TIMES more than Prem leaders Liverpool – who are running away with the title.

United’s hierarchy, both before and after Ineos came on board a year ago, have spent recklessly and without direction.

Put into numbers, United have spent, since 2019, a net amount of £810m – compared to Liverpool’s £212m.

But Arne Slot‘s team sit a staggering 31 POINTS above Ruben Amorim‘s side after the latter’s 1-0 defeat to Spurs on Sunday.

Old Trafford chiefs meanwhile can boast one Carabao Cup and one FA Cup, but a closer look will tell you those successes covered for some dire Prem campaigns – including a record low of eighth last season.

The once-feared Manchester outfit have actually spent more than £1 billion since 2019, with only £285m raised in departures.

That period has seen several different managers take the helm and includes some of the worst transfer business ever.

Antony was signed for a whopping £82m in 2022 and has been shipped out on loan to Real Betis this January – where he’s flying at the moment.

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Jadon Sancho was a £72m capture from Borussia Dortmund in 2021, but will permanently join Chelsea this summer for around £25m having massively underwhelmed in M16.

United made Harry Maguire the most expensive centre-half in the world whilst Erik ten Hag spent a combined £140m to sign Casemiro and Rasmus Hojlund in successive summers.

Ten Hag pushed to splash millions on former Ajax players and even handed over £60m to Chelsea for Mason Mount, whose injury record has seen him play just 32 games for United since June 2023.

Amorim’s main signing in January was the £29m dropped on left-back Patrick Dorgu – adding to the £200m spent in the summer on the likes of Joshua Zirkzee, Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt, Noussair Mazraoui and Manuel Ugarte

And fans could perhaps better stomach this sad reality if it wasn’t for the fact that none of these players are exactly world-beaters.

Eyebrows were raised on Sunday when Amorim was forced to name eight untried teenagers on the bench in United’s latest defeat to Spurs, despite all the money spent.

The truth is, the net spend is the worst in the league because United are struggling to flog players.

Ironically, the money banked for Mason Greenwood (£26.6m) and Scott McTominay (£25m) in the summer are among the biggest United sales of all time.

Gary Neville previously declared Old Trafford a “graveyard” for players with so many of their big name signings failing to deliver while others have been moved on for huge losses.

The fact is, fans are fearing relegation this season or the next as the club break a new embarrassing record each week.

While Chelsea are the biggest Prem spenders, they are also the biggest Prem sellers, racking up £863m in player exits.

Illustration of Premier League teams' spending, showing amounts spent, received, and not spent.
Premier League transfer spending since 2019
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 28: Mason Mount of Manchester United during the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 League Phase MD5 match between Manchester United and FK Bodo/Glimt at Old Trafford on November 28, 2024 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Simon Stacpoole/Offside/Offside via Getty Images)
Chelsea sold academy star Mason Mount to United for £60m in the summer of 2023

Some of these outgoings include £88m (Eden Hazard to Real Madrid), £65m (Havertz to Arsenal) and £60m (Mount to United).

So while, the Blues have spent 1.60bn, their net spend works out as £739m.

Tottenham’s record is the third ‘worst’, with a net spend of £576m as anger continues to be directed at chairman Daniel Levy

That takes into consideration £884m spent on new signings and £308m in sales, but Spurs have gone trophy-less for 17 years.

Fans will also look back on the club-record fee received for Harry Kane and wonder how it was, once again, so poorly invested.

Ange Postecoglou‘s lack of squad depth is currently front and centre as the lack of quality beyond the starting XI is evident as they’re working towards solving a hefty injury list.

Spurs’ rivals and title challengers Arsenal are fourth on the ‘worst spent’ list, with £563m in the red.

David Raya (£27m), Riccardo Calafiori (£42m), and Mikel Merino (£31m) were the major arrivals but Emile Smith Rowe (£27m), Aaron Ramsdale (£18m) and Eddie Nketiah (£25m) all departed. 

Arsenal have not been afraid to spend big, splashing out £60m on Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and £72m on Nicolas Pepe before the arrivals of £65m Kai Havertz and £105m Declan Rice. 

Newcastle, West Ham and Newcastle make up fifth through to seventh respectively.

LEICESTER, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 15: Mikel Arteta manager / head coach of Arsenal applauds after the Premier League match between Leicester City FC and Arsenal FC at The King Power Stadium on February 15, 2025 in Leicester, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images)
Arsenal’s total is £563m in the red

Seven-time champions Manchester City being down in ninth on the list would be a surprise to some.

In total, the Etihad giants are third for outlays on around £986m.

Omar Marmoush’s arrival is fourth in their all-time list, just behind Ruben Dias and then a way off Josko Gvardiol (£77m) and record-signing Jack Grealish who cost £100m.

As with Chelsea, though, City fetch huge sales for selling off a wave of youngsters good enough for many teams but just not quite at Pep Guardiola’s required elite level. 

The Julian Alvarez deal could rise to £81.5m while the money for Taylor Harwood-Bellis (£20m), Liam Delap (£15m), Sergio Gomez (£8.4m) and Tommy Doyle (£4.3m) racks up.

MADRID, SPAIN - FEBRUARY 15: Julian Alvarez of Atletico de Madrid looks during the La Liga EA Sports match between Atletico de Madrid and Celta Vigo on February 15, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Image Photo Agency/Getty Images)
Top City striker Julian Alvarez was sold to Atletico Madrid in the summer

After Alvarez, City’s other biggest sales in the period are Raheem Sterling, Ferran Torres, Gabriel Jesus, Leroy Sane and Cole Palmer (all between £47.5m and £40m). 

Nottingham Forest even crept above City on the spending chart because their net spend is marginally higher.

Last summer, Forest went all out with their signings in an effort to ensure that they remained in the top-flight at the first time of asking, bringing in dozens of new players. 

Sales have been much harder to come by though, with their most notable departure being that of Matty Cash to Aston Villa in 2020.

But it’s paid off as Nuno Espirito Santo’s side are enjoying a breakthrough season as the club sit third in the table.

Lastly, Liverpool’s brilliantly astute and clever recruitment practices speak for themselves.

Perhaps it is no surprise to see Liverpool with the best net spend of the ‘Big Six’ on a mere £282m over the past nine seasons. 

In fact, the Reds have actually made a profit in the 2024-25 campaign by only buying Federico Chiesa for £10m and raising £50m in sales from Fabio Carvalho (£20m), Sepp van den Berg (£20m) and Bobby Clark (£10m). 

It continued a wise – and successful – transfer strategy that has seen Liverpool sell big and then wait to find the right players at the right time for the right price. 

Man Utd ratings v Spurs

MANCHESTER UNITED slipped to a 12th defeat in the Premier League with Rasmus Hojlund coming under fire again.

Here’s how SunSport’s Katherine Walsh rated the Manchester United players against an underachieving Spurs side – who are now three places above them in 12th – in North London.

Andre Onana – 3

United can’t do anything with him between the sticks. Can’t be trusted to collect anything.

His opposite number Vicario showed him a thing or two after returning for the first time since Spurs thrashed Man City in November.

At fault for the first goal when he palmed out a relatively weak bouncing shot into Maddison’s path in the 13th minute.

Noussair Mazraoui – 5

An OK performance. Clever link-up play with Zirkzee but couldn’t get hold of Spence down the left-hand side.

Pulled out an excellent cross for the Dutchman’s headed chance late-on.

Matthijs de Ligt – 6

His clearance stopped an obvious 2-0 before the half-an-hour mark.

Harry Maguire – 5

A mixed bag. Long ball over the top for Hojlund’s chance in opening 10 minutes and went on a few attacking runs himself in the first half.

Did well to stop Dejan Kulusevski from having a go at the edge of the box. But bizarrely stopped in his tracks when a cross came flying into Son later on.

Diogo Dalot – 6

A difficult afternoon for the Portugal international as Son and Djed Spence left him for dead a few times.

Hesitated when asked to shoot from five yards to make it 1-0 but helped Onana out with some clearances too.

Patrick Dorgu – 4

A Prem debut to forget. He was almost invisible from the left-hand side. And lacked quality when asked to get involved more in the second half.

Was stupidly caught offside with Bruno Fernandes offloading a stunning cross pitch pass and booked late-on.

Casemiro – 5

Looked every bit a player that hasn’t played Premier League football for two months. Unsurprisingly booked for a late one on Son.

Bizarrely dropped to the turf asking for a free-kick when nobody touched him. Was forced to play 89 minutes with eight teenagers on the bench. A difficult afternoon, indeed.

Bruno Fernandes – 5

Interceptions and breaking up play is not a part of the captain’s game. An uncharacteristically poor cross left United open on the counter.

Did get back to stop Son from having a shot at Onana on the hour mark and started ticking in attack in the final 20 minutes.

Alejandro Garnacho – 4

Looked shaky and cut a frustrated figure after blazing over an absolute SITTER from 10 yards to level the scores.

A bit of a shocker and looked a completely different player to the one who got United into the fifth-round of the FA Cup last week.

Woke up a bit in the second half as Vicario kept him at bay with several superb stops. But the 20-year-old is clearly better off the bench.

Joshua Zirkzee – 6

The best of a desperately poor front three. There’s a street player in there and he’s great with his touches at times.

But curled wide from 23 yards, stuck a header wide in the 70th minute and kicked an air shot in the final five minutes.

Rasmus Hojlund – 3

Is Hojlund the worst No 9 in United’s recent history?

The young Dane, who was unlucky to have a chance saved by Vicario, was second best in every loose ball and kept losing possession.

He was even caught offside after a pass from an Onana goal-kick in the first half – how often do you see that happen?

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Golfer and pilot who’s heir to $1bn fortune misses out on win by one shot after flying himself to Genesis Invitational

A GOLFER missed out on a $4million winner’s prize by just one shot – after flying himself to the tournament.

Maverick McNealy, 29, produced a thrilling performance in the final round of the Genesis Invitational at Torrey Pines.

Maverick McNealy golfing.
Getty
Maverick McNealy came within a shot of winning the Genesis Invitational[/caption]
Man holding certificate in front of small airplane.
Instagram
The PGA golfer is also a qualified pilot and flew himself to the tournament[/caption]
Ludvig Aberg and Tiger Woods with a golf trophy.
Reuters
Ludvig Aberg birdied the last to clinch the trophy[/caption]

He shot a superb eight-under-par 64 to finish on -11 – going eight under through the first 11 holes.

But the American was pipped by Swedish sensation Ludvig Aberg who birdied four of the final six holes including the 18th to snatch the prestigious title by one shot.

And Aberg was handed over the trophy by none other than host Tiger Woods.

As for McNealy, though, he had to settle for second and a mere $2.2m [£1.75m].

But in the grand scheme of things, that is a fraction of the $1billion fortune he will inherit.

McNealy’s dad Scott co-founded tech firm Sun Microsystems and sold the company to Oracle in 2010 for $7.4bn [£5.9m].

It means Maverick and his three brothers – all named after American cars – are all set to become billionaires.

And it is thought that may well make McNealy the richest golfer in the world.

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His epic fortune places him above legends such as Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Rory Mcllroy and Phil Mickelson on the golfing rich list.

But former world No1 amateur McNealy is certainly making a name for himself and boosting his bank balance on the golf course with £12m in career earnings.

But as well as his management science and engineering degree, custom-made irons and rise to 14th in the world rankings, McNealy is a qualified pilot.

The Californian, who has one PGA Tour win at the RSM Classic in November, secured his license in 2023 at the age of 27 – the same year he married wife Maya.

And he even flew his own private plane to Torrey Pines for the Genesis Invitational.

Speaking about his unique arrival to the famous course, McNealy told Golfweek: “It was a really fun way to get here. Kind of unique for me on the PGA Tour.

“I’m going to use it a ton to get to La Quinta for better weather practice and up north to Tahoe in the summer when it gets too hot in Las Vegas.”

On his narrow miss behind Aberg at Torrey Pines, he added: “It [second] is more than I could have asked for to start the day.

“It was one of those things where I got on a roll early and there were some gettable flags.

“When you get on a roll you just don’t want to get off it and I tried to keep it going as long as possible.

“I had a few poor shots and an unlucky break or two at the end but definitely had a few things go my way early in this round and it was just a ton of fun to be up there, to have a chance.

“Ludvig played awesome.”

Justin Thomas and Maverick McNealy walking off the 18th green.
Getty
McNealy was eight under through 11 holes on Sunday[/caption]
Maverick McNealy in a helicopter.
Instagram
He secured his pilot license and married Maya in 2023[/caption]

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Ukraine pins hopes on ‘INVINCIBLE’ drone to turn tide of war as it ramps up production of weapon once thought impossible

UKRAINE hopes its “invincible” drones could change the trajectory of the war as production of the lethal weapon ramps up.

New fiber-optic drones have excited Ukraine, with the deadly weapons capable of transforming into unjammable flying bombs, evading electronic shields and delivering precision strikes.

Ukrainian-made FPV fiber optic drone in flight.
AP
A Ukrainian made FPV fiber-optic drone flies at a military market place at an undisclosed location in the Kyiv region[/caption]
Drone flying over a field.
Ukraine’s Ministry of Defence
A fiber-optic drone in action[/caption]
Close-up of gloved hands working on a drone.
Ukraine’s Ministry of Defence
Thin fiber-optic cables pictured[/caption]

Fiber-optic drones are first-person-view weapons that carry a small explosive payload.

Unlike previously where drones relied on a radio frequency connection that was vulnerable to electronic signal jamming, they’re now built with thin cables that provide a stable connection across several miles.

And, due to the cables being able to maintain a reliable link between the drone and the operator, they’re resistant to conventional electronic warfare practices that have troubled Ukraine previously.

On top of this, the drones provide high-quality video transmissions, granting troops the power to not only receive early warning for incoming FPV drones, but destroy them too.

The breakthrough drones have emerged as a response to electronic warfare – which both Ukraine and Russia use to decimate each others weapons.

Electronic systems interference has become a key part of the war – and consequently the technology race.

Russia had introduced fiber-optic drones in the bloody war last year, with the weapons having a prominent place in the conflict by winter.

Initially there was some scepticism from those who work within the efforts to scale up the drone production in Ukraine, especially surrounding how the tech would perform.

But now the weapons are in very high demand and are seen as a main part of a rapidly evolving battlefield.

Ukrainian developers began working on the tech in 2023, according to senior executive in Ukraine’s defence industry Nataliia Kushnerska.

Various sizes of black cylindrical drone components.
Ukraine’s Ministry of Defence
Spools of fiber-optic cable in different sizes[/caption]
Ukrainian servicewoman using VR headset to operate FPV drone via fiber-optic cable.
Getty
A Ukrainian servicewoman in a VR set operates an FPV drone controlled via a fiber-optic cable during a test flight[/caption]
Fiber-optic controlled drone on the ground.
Getty
A fiber-optic-controlled drone is designed for the Ukrainian Armed Forces[/caption]

She told Business Insider: “That year saw the creation of the first prototypes and initial testing conducted by the manufacturers themselves.

“Today, Ukrainian producers have already transitioned to serial production of these systems.”

Kushnerska added that dozens of teams across Ukraine were now working on fiber-optic drones – and the numbers continue to increase.

She explained how companies could produce thousands of the deadly drones each month.

Other company CEO’s and founders shared their hesitations with the drones initially, but as time went on and knowledge of the drones continued to expand, manufacturers realised the addition of fiber-optic cables would be a modification to their drones.

And by halfway through last year, it was clear that the weapons were an essential on the battlefield.

Despite there being various manufacturing and production challenges due to the demand not being high enough for the drones, electronic warfare tactics began to interfere with typical communication channels.

This marked the beginning of fiber-optic drones becoming a necessity in the war.

A serviceman demonstrating a Ukrainian-made FPV fiber optic drone.
AP
A serviceman, callsign Omar, demonstrates a Ukrainian made FPV fiber-optic drone[/caption]
A serviceman prepares a Ukrainian-made FPV drone.
AP
A serviceman launches a Ukrainian made FPV fiber-optic drone[/caption]
FPV drone with fiber-optic cable during military training.
Getty
An FPV drone controlled via a fiber-optic cable flies during Ukrainian military training[/caption]

Representative Oleksii of Warbirds of Ukraine, which produces drones, revealed that the fiber-optic weapons “are essential because they remain operational in electronic warfare environments”.

He told Business Insider: “When used with the right technology, they can significantly improve the accuracy of strikes.

“This is one of the evolutionary steps in developing new approaches to counter electronic warfare systems.”

At Warbirds of Ukraine alone, the drones can now be produced at a whopping 700 systems a moth.

Fiber-optic drones are just one part of Ukraine’s ever-changing defence industry, with the country also producing homemade artillery and missiles to help the frontline troops.

What is a fiber-optic drone?

A FIBER-OPTIC drone is a first-person-view weapon that carries a small explosive payload.

Unlike previously where drones relied on a radio frequency connection that was vulnerable to electronic signal jamming, the drones are now built with thin cables.

These provide a stable connection across several miles.

Due to the cables being able to maintain a reliable link between the drone and the operator, they’re resistant to conventional electronic warfare practices that have troubled Ukraine previously.

On top of this, the drones provide high-quality video transmissions, granting troops the power to not only receive early warning for incoming FPV drones, but destroy them too.

Fiber-optic controlled drone on a stand in a field.
Getty
A fiber-optic-controlled drone is designed for the Ukrainian Armed Forces in the Kyiv region[/caption]
Drone carrying a projectile in flight.
Reuters
A first-person view (FPV) drone is seen in flight at a training location of the 113th Territorial Defence Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces[/caption]

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British Airways issues urgent warning to millions of holidaymakers as M25 hit with string of closures

ONE of Britain’s biggest airlines have issued an urgent warning ahead of the March holiday surge. 

British Airways have warned that holidaymakers travelling from Gatwick or Heathrow will need to consider the upcoming major M25 disruptions.

Heavy traffic jam on a highway.
The M25 will face eight days of disruption in March
Simon Jones - The Sun
British Airways plane at the gate.
British Airways have advised travellers to plan ahead
Alamy

The M25 closures could take place over eight days in March. 

The motorway will be closed between Junction 10 and Junction 11 in both directions on March 7 until March 10.

It will close again, at the same junction, from March 21 until March 24.

Closures will begin at 9pm on each Friday and will end at 6am on each Monday.

The J10 slip roads will also be closed between February 21-24, as National Highways removes old bridges in the area.

They will also be installing structures for pedestrians, horse-riders and cyclists as well as a corridor for wildlife.

The string of closures have sparked fears that hundreds of Brits could miss their flights over those busy weekends.

Ahead of the closures, BA said: We strongly advise you to plan your journey in advance and allow for extra time to reach the airport.

They added:  “A diversion will be in place but please allow extra time and plan ahead for your journey to the airport.”

The closures are due to a planned effort to remove old bridges over the road. 

However, National Highways have announced that there will be further closures on our roads throughout the Spring. 

The A3 will be closed in both directions from April 11 to 14, between Junction 10 and Cobham Roundabout. 

The upcoming disruptions come as after Heathrow hiked its drop off charge from £5 to £6 on January 1. 

However, drivers are able to use the airport’s long stay car park free of charge for thirty minutes. 

Heathrow also made headline news in February after the Labour government committed to building a third runway in a bid to kickstart economic growth. 

The chancellor, Rachel Reeves, said: “I want spades in the ground. 

“I want people to see in their areas, things happening, growth happening, their children and their grandchildren in the future having the opportunity to work in high-skilled high-paid jobs contributing to the economy with more money in their pockets.”

She added that she hopes “sustainable aviation fuel” would help cut the increased emissions, which will be caused by the bigger influx of planes at Heathrow. 

M25 Spring Closures

The M25 - Britain’s busiest motorway - will face closures over the Spring.

As this will throw journeys into chaos, find out which junctions will be closing here. 

February 21-February 24

The J10 entry and exit slip roads will be closed between February 21-February 24.

Drivers will be able to travel on the M25 through the junction, but will not be able to rejoin. 

7-10 March and 21-24 March

J10 will be closed in both directions on 7-10 March and 21-24 March. 

Closures will begin at 9pm on each Friday and the roads will reopen at 6am each Monday. 

11-14 April

The A3 Northbound will be closed between J10 and the Cobham Roundabout between 11-14 April. 

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Swansea part company with Luke Williams after horror run but fans left fuming at choice of caretaker manager

SWANSEA have sacked manager Luke Williams.

The move comes with the club 17th in the Championship and after a horror run of seven defeats on the spin.

Luke Williams, manager of Swansea City.
Getty
Swansea have sacked manager Luke Williams after a seven-game losing run[/caption]

A club statement said: “Swansea City can confirm the club has parted ways with head coach Luke Williams.

“Assistant head coach Ryan Harley and first-team coach analyst George Lawtey have also left the club with immediate effect.”

Williams departs the Swans after 13 months in charge.

Following a 3-1 defeat to Stoke over the weekend – in which Lewis Baker scored from inside his own half – Swansea are only eight points clear of the bottom three.

Swansea chairman Andy Coleman said: “This was a difficult decision and one that has not been taken lightly. Luke has led the club through some challenging periods and we appreciate his hard work.

“I am aware of the effort he and his staff have put in throughout the last 13 months for Swansea City.

“I want to personally thank Luke, Ryan and George for their dedication and the sacrifices they have made on behalf of the club.

“Unfortunately, since the turn of the year our performances and results have not been of the standard required at this level.

“Ultimately, that has led us to conclude a change is required in order to bring about an improvement in our showings on the pitch.”

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Anton Ferdinand breaks silence on Dancing on Ice backlash as trolls argue he ‘doesn’t deserve’ to be in the competition

ANTON Ferdinand has shrugged off backlash from trolls who are targeting him on Dancing on Ice.

The former footballer, 39, has faced criticism for still being in the competition after former fan favourites were sent home.

Anton Ferdinand and Annette Dytrt on Dancing on Ice.
Anton Ferdinand and his Dancing on Ice partner Annette Dytrt
Eroteme
Charlie Brooks and Eric Radford embracing on the ice after an ice skating performance.
Rex
Charlie Brooks left the competiton at the end of Sunday night’s show[/caption]

Novice skater Anton finished in second place on the leaderboard on Sunday night in joint place with The Traitors star Mollie King, just behind Towie’s Dan Edgar.

It led to vicious tweets on X, with one viewer saying: “Can we just skip the skate off? The judges already know exactly who they’re sending home. Anton could fall on his a**e through the ice and they’d still save him.”

Another added: “Are the judges blind? They voted the best skaters out. Anton was like a wooden plank on the ice same as last week.”

Despite fears he’s been struggling behind the scenes, Anton’s rep insisted: “He is focused on the Dancing on Ice journey, he’s loved every minute.

“The comments aren’t fazing him, he’s faced much worse over the years during playing in the Premier League.”

Anton went up against Charlie during last night’s skate-off.

After both performing their routine again, it was down to the judging panel – Jayne TorvillChristopher DeanOti Mabuse and Ashley Banjo – to have their say on who should be going home next.

Ashley, Oti and Jayne opted to eliminate Charlie meaning that no vote from Chris was required.

As this week’s head judge, he had the responsibility of making the casting vote and although it was not required, he insisted that he would have voted to axe Charlie as well.

Alongside Charlie, Chelsee Healey, Josh Jones, Ferne McCann, Steve Redgrave and Chris Taylor have all left the competition so far.

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