February 12, 2025New York StateComments Off on Ronnie O’Sullivan set for new job after pulling out of another big snooker tournament to spark health fears
RONNIE O’SULLIVAN could work as a TV pundit this week in North Wales — after pulling out of a fifth event in three months.
PARonnie O’Sullivan could work as a pundit after withdrawing from the Welsh Open[/caption]
Though the World Snooker Tour declined to explain his absence, it is understood to be for medical reasons — a decision that has angered some fans hoping to see the legend.
O’Sullivan, a four-time Welsh Open champion, has been struggling on and off the table for a while now.
Last month, he snapped his cue in half in one of his few matches of 2025 — at a behind-closed-doors Championship League event in Leicester.
Since losing in the UK Championship first round on November 23, O’Sullivan decided not to play the Shoot Out, Scottish Open, Masters, German Masters and now the Welsh Open in Llandudno.
The world No 3 did appear in Saudi Arabia before Christmas — he made the semi-finals in Riyadh — but otherwise has been off UK TV screens since last autumn.
The next time he plays is likely to be the World Open, which starts on February 23, in Yushan, China.
The seven-time world champ works on snooker events for Discovery+ and could form part of their televised coverage this weekend as players chase the Ray Reardon Trophy.
The same situation happened when he withdrew from the Masters at Ally Pally last month and then went into the studio a few days later.
Discussions are ongoing about a possible appearance but no decision has been made yet.
Clarke, 30, has received a bye into the last 32 and this will boost his position on the world rankings list.
Snooker star Dominic Dale, who retired at the end of the season, said: “I’m a little bit surprised. If Ronnie withdraws from an event, it’s normally a couple of days before an event begins.
“To pull out on the eve of this match, I was a bit surprised, particularly as the world championship is coming round the corner in a couple of months.
“It would have been good practice for Ronnie. He broke his cue a month ago. Maybe he has cue issues as well.”
Clarke, the world No 65, said: “Yeah, I was relishing playing him (O’Sullivan).
“There was 20 per cent a little bit disappointment when I got the phonecall this morning.
“Because he’s coming towards the end of his career. You don’t get many chances to play Ronnie.
“He picks and chooses his events and rightly so. I was probably more happy than not happy, but it would have been nice to play him.”
Inside Ronnie's colourful career
FROM his lightning breaks to blasts at officials, Ronnie O'Sullivan has fired snooker into the spotlight.
The seven-time world champion makes almost as big an impact away from the table as on it.
February 12, 2025New York StateComments Off on Jack Fincham shares emotional post following death of beloved dog after legal battle over canine attack
JACK Fincham has shared an emotional tribute to his dog – who has died aged 17.
The Love Island alum posted a slew of selfies with adorable Bax to his Instagram page, as well as a video, following the tragic news.
jack_charlesf/InstagramJack Fincham has posted a touching tribute to his pet dog, who has died aged 17[/caption]
jack_charlesf/InstagramHe cuddled up to little Bax in a selfie[/caption]
InstagramThe 33-year-old was bailed from jail following his other dog Elvis’, pictured, attack on a runner[/caption]
Former pen-seller Jack, 33, recently opened up on a “testing time” which saw him bailed from jail following his other dog Elvis’ attack on a runner.
The Essex lad was hauled to court after the hulking Cane Corso mauled Robert Sudell and a woman in 2022.
He was jailed for six weeks on January 29 after he admitted being in charge of a dangerously out-of-control dog.
But he was freed on bail shortly afterwards, while he appeals the sentence.
Yet now Jack – who won Love Island with ex Dani Dyer, 28, in 2018 – has suffered another blow with the death of his tan-coloured pet.
He started his photo memories with a snap showing him at the Good Morning Britain studios, cuddling little Bax as he posed in his red jumper.
Another snap showed them lying on the sofa together as well as posing for a selfie.
Bax was then seen in a snap with Elvis – the pooch at the centre of Jack’s court case – before a video captured him playing outside.
In his emotional caption, Jack wrote: “Rest in peace little Bax, nearly 18 years old we had a good run didn’t we mate, love you and we will all miss you.
“He even managed to get on @gmb @itv.
“That last video was in the summer, his last one x”
One fan was quick to write: “Sorry to hear this.”
Another posted: “Take care Jack please look after yourself,” as a third commented: “Ahhh bless him out of pain now beautiful baby.”
One then added: “So sorry for your loss of Bax what a little legend! Xx”
JPs heard that Jack failed to comply with three rules over the dog’s ownership following the first attack.
These included to always keep the dog on the lead, for the dog to wear a muzzle when outside and to not leave the animal alone with anyone under the age of 16.
The guidelines were set in September 2022 when Elvis bit runner Robert and he took part in a dog ownership course.
But there was another incident in June 2024 when the animal lashed out at a woman – sinking its teeth into her leg.
The court was told Jack would get Elvis back upon his jail release if the three stipulations are met.
He has previously come under fire over his pet dog.
Fans have slammed the star over Elvis’ cropped ears, which is illegal in the UK.
He also owns Sandy, a bulldog he bought while he wasdatingand living with his exDani.
jack_charlesf/InstagramJack was seen lying on the sofa with Bax in a throwback snap[/caption]
InstagramJack was recently bailed as he appeals his jail sentence[/caption]
Louis Wood News Group Newspapers LtdHe bravely spoke to The Sun about a previous suicide attempt[/caption]
February 12, 2025New York StateComments Off on Major bank launches first mortgage under 4% in 2025 as lenders ignite new rate battle
SUB-4% mortgages are making a comeback in the market, with one major lender igniting a fresh rate war as it prepares to launch new deals later this week.
Santander said that from Thursday, borrowers will be able to apply for one of four new products as it launches a range of two and five-year fixed-rate deals at 3.99%.
PAThe move follows a cut in the Bank of England base rate last week, from 4.75% to 4.5%[/caption]
Eligible borrowers will need a 40% deposit to access the sub 4% rates, available for house purchase or remortgaging.
The lender is also making reductions of up to 0.40 percentage points on more than 80 other mortgages products from Thursday.
The new deals include a 60% LTV (loan-to-value) two or five-year fixed rate at 3.99% for home buyers, with a £1,999 fee.
A 60% LTV two or five-year fixed rate at 3.99% is also available for homeowners looking to remortgage, with a £1,749 fee.
Other new deals include a buy-to-let home purchase mortgage at 65% LTV with a two-year fixed rate at 4.35% with a £1,749 fee or 4.89% with no fee.
David Morris, head of homes at Santander, said: “We’re delighted to launch a range of new products, along with rate cuts on our existing range, that will make a difference to customers across every stage of the home-buying journey.”
The move follows a cut in the Bank of England base rate last week, from 4.75% to 4.5%, fuelling hopes that competition between lenders to chop mortgage rates could heat up.
David Hollingworth, associate director at L&C Mortgages said: “These are the first standard rates from a high street lender to drop below 4% since last November and deals are available to both buyers and those remortgaging.
“The improvement in the rate of inflation last month and recent rate cut seems to have reversed market anxiety about whether rates may have to stay higher for longer.
“That has been feeding through to mortgage rates in the last week, and underlines gradual improvement in the market, as fixed rates begin to ease back.”
However, David warns that the new mortgage products still come with higher than normal fees.
He said: “They do come with a bigger fee, of £1,999 or £1,749 for purchase and remortgage respectively.
“Borrowers will therefore need to keep their wits about them and do their sums, to make sure that they are getting the best overall value.”
The news follow a flurry of mortgage rate cuts over the last couple of days.
Which other lenders have cut fixed mortgage rates?
NatWest announced it would be lowering mortgage rates by as much as 0.36 percentage points yesterday.
Last week, six leading lenders revealed reductions in their mortgage rates ahead of the Bank of England decision on Thursday.
The changes began with Barclays and Coventry Building Society cutting their rates on Monday.
If you’re remortgaging and your loan-to-value ratio (LTV) has changed, you’ll get access to better rates than before.
Your LTV will go down if your outstanding mortgage is lower and/or your home’s value is higher.
A change to your credit score or a better salary could also help you access better rates.
And if you’re nearing the end of a fixed deal soon it’s worth looking for new deals now.
You can lock in current deals sometimes up to six months before your current deal ends.
Leaving a fixed deal early will usually come with an early exit fee, so you want to avoid this extra cost.
But depending on the cost and how much you could save by switching versus sticking, it could be worth paying to leave the deal – but compare the costs first.
You can also go to a mortgage broker who can compare a much larger range of deals for you.
Some will charge an extra fee but there are plenty who give advice for free and get paid only on commission from the lender.
You’ll also need to factor in fees for the mortgage, though some have no fees at all.
You can add the fee – sometimes more than £1,000 – to the cost of the mortgage, but be aware that means you’ll pay interest on it and so will cost more in the long term.
Remember you’ll have to pass the lender’s strict eligibility criteria too, which will include affordability checks and looking at your credit file.
You may also need to provide documents such as utility bills, proof of benefits, your last three month’s payslips, passports and bank statements.
What’s next for mortgage rates?
Financial markets are still exercising more caution regarding the pace of future interest rate cuts than previously anticipated.
While economists predict three further cuts by the end of 2025, reaching a 4% base rate, this projection coincides with a revised inflation forecast.
The Bank of England now expects inflation to peak at 3.7% later this summer, higher than earlier estimates.
This upward revision is partly attributed to the impact of policies introduced in the October 2024 Budget.
Specifically, measures within the budget have contributed to a rise in cost inflation, pushing the overall inflation figure higher.
This presents a complex situation for the Bank of England, as rising inflation typically warrants higher interest rates to curb spending and stabilise prices.
However, although mortgage rates are influenced by the Bank of England’s base rate, they aren’t directly tied to it.
Instead, they depend on swap rates, which follow government bond yields.
When the bond markets are unstable, yields rise, making it more expensive for banks to borrow money.
This, in turn, pushes up mortgage rates.
As of today, the average two-year fixed mortgage rate stands at 5.44%, while the average rate for a five-year fixed deal is slightly lower at 5.20%, according to Moneyfactscompare.co.uk.
Meanwhile, the average two-year tracker mortgage rate across all LTVs is 4.39%.
Despite recent market turbulence, experts remain confident that further interest rate cuts are inevitable, which will lead to reductions in mortgage rates as well.
Peter Stimson, head of product at the mortgage lender MPowered, said: “The markets regarded the recent 0.25% rate cut as a nailed-on certainty.
“But what has raised some eyebrows was the strength of feeling among the Bank of England’s ratesetters at the latest meeting.
“The only two dissenting voices on the Bank’s nine-member committee wanted to cut more, not less, off the Base Rate.
“All of which will lend credence to the idea that a flurry of further base rate cuts could be on its way.”
February 12, 2025New York StateComments Off on EastEnders star Scott Maslen reveals fears he’d been axed from soap ahead of 40th anniversary episodes
EASTENDERS star Scott Maslen has shared the fears he had that he might have been axed from the soap
EastEnders will celebrate its 40th anniversary this month, with the soap currently gearing up to celebrate in style – as speculation is rife regarding what the storylines might be.
BBCScott Maslen plays the role of Jack Branning in the hit soap opera[/caption]
BBCIn the soap, Jack recently split from wife Denise[/caption]
BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarronViewers now have the massive choice of picking who Denise will end up with – Jack or Ravi[/caption]
Because of the soap’s anniversary, fans – and cast members – have been worried that some of the characters could be killed off or axed.
And it seems that Scott, who plays the role of Jack Branning, has been worried over this possibility.
Speaking on This Morning recently, Scott said: “We had a meeting, a phone call, with our boss who called all three of us in, which was strange.
“We had a little panic, thinking, ‘Oh no, it’s the end.’ But we were all on a call about the 40th anniversary, bringing everything together.
“They’ve done a really good job of that; there’s going to be a lot of surprises for people.”
He added: It’s exciting on many levels, not just ours. There are lots of different bits, segments of high-end madness.”
Scott’s character Jack is currently embroiled in a high stakes storyline with two of his soap co-stars.
The exciting storyline is interactive with viewers at home, and it involves Jack Branning, Denise Fox (played by Diane Parish), and Ravi Gulati (portrayed by Aaron Thiara).
The interactive aspect of the storyline is how viewers have the power to influence what happens for the first time in the show’s history.
INTERACTIVE NARRATIVE
Viewers have got the immense power to influence the narrative by voting on Denise’s romantic choice between her ex Jack and former flame Ravi.
The outcome of the vote will be revealed during the live episode next week, with fans hotly anticipating how it will pan out.
Diane Parish, who plays the role of Denise, recently spoke out about the storyline and how she was “shocked” when she initially found out about it and the interactive aspect of it.
“I was shocked when I found out, but I knew I was blessed to tell this story with two amazing actors, Scott Maslen and Aaron Thiara.
“It’s going to be so interesting as I click with both of them in different ways.”
EastEnders' 40th anniversary cameos so far
With the 40th anniversary of EastEnders coming up, fans are looking forward to some more incredible cameos from iconic faces of Walford's past. But who have we had so far?
Tracy-Ann Oberman – Oberman returned as Chrissie Watts, a character she last played nearly two decades ago.
Paul Bradley – Bradley returned as Nigel Bates, a character he last played over 25 years ago.
Micheal French – French returned as David Wicks, a character he last played two decades ago.
Patsy Palmer – Palmer returned as Bianca Jackson, a character she last played in 2019.
Coming up this year…
Ross Kemp – Kemp will reprise his role as Grant Mitchell, a character he first played in 1990. The BBC has described Kemp’s storyline as “explosive”. Kemp said it was an “absolute honour” to return to the show.
Other aspects of the 40th anniversary celebration include: A wedding between fan favorites, A huge explosion at the Queen Vic, and A live interactive episode.
She added: “I love that the viewers are voting on Denise’s choice between two men, not the blokes’ choice.”
This comes after viewers were speculating whether or not Jake Wood’s character of Max Branning will make a comeback for the 40th anniversary episode.
POSSIBLE COMEBACK?
Jake Wood, who played Max Branning on the soap until four years ago, recently reunited with his on-screen brother, which majorly sparked rumours that he might return to the square.
Posing with Scott Maslen, who plays Jack Branning, on a night out, Jake looked overjoyed to be back in his brother’s company.
The on-screen brothers were beaming as they posed for the snap, with Scott’s wife Estelle also smiling in the photo.
Scott shared the snap on his Instagram page, writing: “He ain’t heavy he’s my brother!”
One person commented: “Lovely photo! Been saying Jake has to come back to Eastenders for the anniversary surely?!”
While another said: “Can’t wait to see you both on the 40th anniversary,” clearly feeling hopeful.
BBCEastEnders will be celebrating 40 years of being on air later this month[/caption]
InstagramJake Wood was recently spotted with Scott, with fans convinced his character might return to Walford for the 40th anniversary[/caption]
BBCJake is known for playing Max Branning – and fans want him to make a comeback[/caption]
February 12, 2025New York StateComments Off on I have a great sex life with my husband but I have feelings for my step-son – there’s an electrifying heat between us
A MOTHER has revealed that she is married and has a great sex life, but has developed feelings for her step-son.
The mum-of-two claimed that there is an electrifying heat between her and her step-son and now, she can barely look at him without blushing.
GettyA mother has claimed that despite having a great sex, she has developed feelings for her step-son[/caption]
GettyThe anonymous woman explained that she dreams about her husband’s son and is going ‘crazy’ for ‘mentally cheating’ *stock image*[/caption]
Keen to open up on the situation, the anonymous woman took to social media to reveal all, leaving many totally stunned.
Posting on Reddit, on the r/offmychest forum, the confused woman titled her post ’Discovering I might have feelings for my step-son. I hate myself for it.’
She then shared some context to her situation and revealed that after recently getting married to her partner of eight years, she has been left with confusing feelings.
She explained: “We have had difficulties and insecurities in our relationship previously and he really tried and went out of his way to make sure we made it.
“I have tremendous love and respect for my husband. In fact our sex life is great too.
“And we are both completely committed and into each other, a rarity in a lot of couples who have been together too long.
“Now comes the issue I am facing. My husband has three kids from his previous partner. I have two.
“The kids are great together and have formed a great sibling kind of bond. I cannot ask for more and we as parents are really blessed how things have played out.
“But my husband’s eldest son is just 12 years younger than me. So we have formed a friendship as opposed to a step-mother/son relationship.”
Whilst her husband’s eldest son does not call her mum like the other kids, she described him as a “lovely lad” and claimed that he is “doing well in his life”.
Following this, she admitted: “I have recently realised I display feelings of having a crush on him.
“I cannot give him eye contact when we converse. I am pretty sure I blush and my insides feel weird.
“I hate this and have reprimanded myself for feeling so inappropriate.”
Not only this, but she then opened up about a very “recent development”, as she confessed: “Most disturbing is that I dream of him. A lot.
“In my dreams he is always the one initiating contact/intimacy towards me. I always see myself shying away from him but he is always projecting warmth and affection openly towards me.”
Clearly unsure on what to do, the woman acknowledged: “I am so confused by this weird situation.
Every time our fingers have touched or we sat close I have felt this electrifying wave of heat between us
Reddit poster
“I know very well this is inappropriate for even crossing my mind but how do I put an end to this.
“I thought of seeing a counsellor but was too embarrassed to open up about this.
“In reality, my step-son dotes on me, shows me respect and genuine affection.
Raucous Role Play: If your partner enjoys dressing up for fun, it shows creativity and a desire to keep things exciting. However, it might signal that he struggles with responsibility.
Multi-Partner Fantasies: Craving variety doesn’t always mean he wants to cheat. However, it could indicate deeper feelings of unfulfillment.
Power & Control: A little dominance is normal, but if it’s always about control, it may hide insecurities.
Adventure: Men seeking thrills may push boundaries, so be sure your comfort zone is respected.
Flexibility: Openness to new experiences is great, but constant novelty-seeking could mean avoiding emotional connection.
Red Flag: If control is his ultimate fantasy, it may signal a deeper struggle with power dynamics.
“We also share a chemistry of some kind whereas we are always each other’s first choice as a partner in games and debates or ganging up against his father.
“We may have held hands or mistakenly touched, or sat really close to each other during movie nights.
“Other than this there has been zero physical connection. Yet every time our fingers have touched or we sat close I have felt this electrifying wave of heat between us.”
I think it’s time for therapy
Reddit user
Eager for advice, she questioned: “Not sure if I have started reading into things. Not sure if my step-son has guessed it by now. What if my husband reads into this?!
“I hate myself and am going crazy with guilt. I also feel I have lost some respect for myself for mentally cheating on my husband.
“I don’t know what to do. What are your views? Is this a phase (10-12 months) or am I a questionable amoral woman?”
Reddit users react
Reddit users were left open-mouthed by the woman’s confession and many eagerly flocked to the comments to share their thoughts – with countless users encouraging the mother to seek advice from a professional therapist.
One person said: “This is the nastiest s**t ever omg.”
Another added: “I think it’s time for therapy.”
Whilst a third advised: “This is NOT okay. Distance yourself from your step-son and go seek help with a therapist.”
Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club
February 12, 2025New York StateComments Off on Shoppers race to Sports Direct for £9 cabin bag that’s perfect for strict major airline rules – it’s good quality
WE all want to get the most we can out of our money – especially when it comes to travelling on our holidays.
As we look forward to booking holidays to get away for some sunshine, many will be looking to see how far they can stretch their pounds.
AlamyBargain hunters are legging it to Sports Direct to nab new travel cabin bag – it’s only £9 reduced from £29.99[/caption]
Sports DirectIt’s made from durable polyester material to help withstand the ‘challenges’ of any journey – whilst also keeping your belongings safe and secure[/caption]
In some cases, this may mean opting for a cabin bag rather than forking out on hold luggage.
However, with strict measurements from airlines, it can be difficult to find a bag that fits perfectly within the requirements.
Fortunately, Sports Direct has just the cabin bag – and they are selling it at a bargain price.
Currently, they are offering a Slazenger Fabric Trolley Case for £9, reduced from £29.99.
Talking about their hand luggage, the Sports Direct website states: “Our collection of cabin suitcases are designed to fit perfectly in the cabin and adhere to the rules set by airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet.”
Discussing the Slazenger Fabric Trolley, they explained that the case is made from durable polyester material to help withstand the “challenges” of any journey – whilst also keeping your belongings safe and secure.
It features two front pockets and offers ample storage space with its 19/22-inch size.
Designed in black and available in a range of sizes, it is perfect for embracing your adventurous spirit and embarking on your next travel adventure with Slazenger’s Fabric Trolley Cases.
Many shoppers have rushed to the comments section to share their praise for the bag.
One wrote: “Bought it a month ago and I’ve been using it since.”
A second added: “These are great cases. Perfect size for a few days away.”
Meanwhile, a third said: “Bought this suitcase two weeks ago and was very pleased with the quality, price, and delivery.”
Someone else commented: “My life has maximised by 100% since buying this suitcase.
“I have never felt better; I am so delighted, and I love my life since buying this suitcase.
“I love this Slazenger suitcase. It is my best friend now. I have lots of friends.”
Another added: “Excellent size for those smaller items, etc., that you wish to take on board. Also, extra pockets for paperwork.”
A different customer said: “Lovely suitcase, ideal size, just great. Brilliant case for everyone, great case for holidays.”
How to make travelling with kids a breeze
IT can be stressful travelling with kids, but there are a few things you can do to make it easier. Here's five we'd recommend:
Snacks
It might sound simple, but it’s a good idea to pack a LOT of snacks. Think of how much you might need, and double it. After all, it doesn’t matter if you have too much – your kids can eat it another time – but it will be a big issue if you run out. There are also snack boxes with lots of little dividers that are great for long journeys as kids can pick at those throughout.
Entertainment
This covers a whole range of things – from a tablet to watch films or play games if you’ve got older kids, to books and colouring. It’s advisable to pack a variety of options, especially if you’re on a long journey or have various legs on your haul.
Toys
If you’ve got a baby or a toddler, there are some sensory-type toys you can buy that can really help keep little ones entertained. These include ones that you stick on the windows of a plane, or on a tray on a highchair, that they can spin and play with to their hearts’ content.
Equipment
There are a whole host of things on the market that aim to make sleeping on a plane loads easier. These include a hammock that you can attack to your tray which hangs down to put your feet on. You can also get blow up cushions to turn a seat into a bed for littles, and neck cushions that boast you will be able to use for a decent night’s sleep wherever you are.
Yourselves!
Don’t underestimate how entertaining you are to your kids. Learn some games you can play with them, and songs you can sing, as kids always love the opportunity to have one-on-one time with their parents.
And regardless of whether it’s a Valentine’s or Galentine’s for you this year, their latest nightwear drop is the perfect addition to any plans.
instagram/Tu ClothingSome options are already sold out online[/caption]
Fashion fans are already hailing the gorgeous sets as a must-have to get in the spirit for the romantic occasion.
First up, there’s a pink ‘Wine and Dine’ printed pyjama set which even includes a matching eye mask.
Described by the Tu team as adding a “fun touch”, the PJs are available in sizes six to 24 and priced at £25.
Shoppers can also bag £24 cherry print double cloth traditional pyjamas with a hair scrunchie in sizes XS to XXL, or a pink stripe heart seersucker pyjama shirt for £12 and matching bottoms priced at £13.
Is supermarket fashion the new high street?
DEPUTY Fashion Editor Abby McHale weighs in:
The supermarkets have really upped their game when it comes to their fashion lines. These days, as you head in to do your weekly food shop you can also pick up a selection of purse-friendly, stylish pieces for all the family.
Tesco has just announced a 0.7 per cent increase in the quarter thanks to a ‘strong growth in clothing’ and M&S has earnt the title of the number one destination for womenswear on the high street.
Asda’s clothing line George has made £1.5 million for the supermarket in 2023, 80 per cent of Sainsbury’s clothes sold at full price rather than discounted and Nutmeg at Morrisons sales are also up 2 per cent in the past year.
So what is it about supermarket fashion that is becoming so successful?
Apart from the clothing actually being affordable, it’s good quality too – with many being part of schemes such as the Better Cotton Initiative.
A lot of the time they keep to classic pieces that they know will last the customer year after year.
Plus because they buy so much stock they can turn around pieces quickly and buy for cheaper because of the volumes.
February 12, 2025New York StateComments Off on Taiwo Awoniyi injury latest: Nottingham Forest striker ‘up and walking’ after being stretchered off in FA Cup – updates
TAIWO AWONIYI is up and walking, after being carried off on a stretcher after a serious collision with Exeter City keeper Joe Whitworth last night.
Awoniyi, who had scored Nottingham Forest‘s second, received treatment from club doctors and paramedics.
He appeared to have been put into the recovery position but it is not clear if he lost consciousness – the striker was then carried off on a stretcher after around TEN minutes.
There was good news soon after, with reports that Awoniyi was able to walk back to the changing rooms from the medical centre – he is said to have ‘looked a bit groggy’ but was walking unaided.
February 12, 2025New York StateComments Off on Pregnant NHS worker, 25, died from severe asthma attack after doctor failed to give her crucial test, inquest hears
A PREGNANT NHS worker who tragically died from a severe asthma attack was not given an exhale test before her death, an inquest heard.
Chloe Arnold, 25, collapsed at her Darlaston home on March 3, 2023 and was dead less than a week later.
Walsall HealthcareThe mum-to-be was 10 weeks pregnant[/caption]
Chloe Arnold, 25, died on the Intensive Care Unit at Walsall Manor Hospital on Thursday, 9 March
An inquest into the hospital worker’s death, held at Oldbury on Tuesday, heard Chloe had a history of asthma.
The mum-to-be, who was 10 weeks pregnant, also had a dental abscess.
She had been treated at an urgent treatment centre for breathlessness and wheezing on March 3.
Chloe was was correctly prescribed a nebuliser and antibiotics before being sent home from the GP-led urgent treatment centre.
But, the inquest heard how a probe launched by the hospital discovered Chloe was not given a peak expiratory flow test.
This is standard procedure, and measures how quickly patients can blow air from their lungs.
Shortly after returning from the treatment centre, Chloe suffered a severe asthma attack.
Her step dad Mark Bradley performed CPR in their home as she went into respiratory arrest.
The mum-to-be then went into cardiac arrest as she was rushed to Walsall Manor Hospital.
She was treated in the Intensive Care Unit after having contracted fluid on the brain but sadly died on March 9.
Urgent care locum Dr Emeka Nzenwata gave evidence at the inquest.
He explained the emergency department and the urgent care department used different assessment systems.
Dr Nzenwata said at the time he treated Chloe, he was unfamiliar with a checking system which would have flagged that she required a peak flow test.
“I was always aware of peak flow. At the time I saw her the evidence was pointing to a mild case of asthma exacerbation,” he told the hearing.
He added that since Chloe’s death, he now administers all asthma patients the test.
Chloe’s grief-stricken mum, Sarah Porter, also gave evidence at the hearing.
She said her daughter was diagnosed with asthma when she was 18-months old, but had not always been taking medication as she grew older.
Ms Porter explained Chloe’s asthma had gotten worse over the years.
Paying tribute to her daughter, she said: “She was full of life. She had so much more to give and we all miss her every single day.
“I hope that things will be put into practice with the peak flows so that no-one else will has to go through what I am going through.”
Ms Porter also heartbreakingly revealed Chloe has not told her she was pregnant, because she had been keeping it as a an adorable Mothering Sunday surprise.
Assistant Black Country Coroner Mr Michael Pemberton said: “I find there were missed opportunities in regard to her status as a pregnant lady which would have lowered the threshold for admission to be considered.
“She was discharged.”
Mr Pemberton also told the inquest Walsall Healthcare Trust and the urgent care operator Malling Health have made changes in their asthma patient care.
Mr Pemberton added: “On the balance of probabilities it cannot be said that had she remained in hospital that her death would not have happened. I heard clear evidence of the deterioration in her condition when she went home.
“I am satisfied with the evidence heard from the ambulance service that the triage and treatment given by its staff was appropriate.
“In my judgement this was a natural death and while also noting while there was some suboptimal care and missed opportunities, they did not contribute more than minimally to Chloe’s death.”
Chloe’s medical cause of death was given as lack of oxygen to the brain, acute severe asthma, asthma and pregnancy.
Mr Pemberton concluded the 25-year-old’s death was due to natural causes.
In an emotional tribute Chloe’s mum added: “She was just perfect, fantastic and loved by so many people. If love could have kept Chloe alive, she would have lived for eternity.
“She was my best friend. I’d give anything to have her back.
“She was always the life and soul of the party and the centre of attention. She loved a good party and was always on the dancefloor.”
Kate Follows, a former work colleague, also paid a heartfelt tribute.
She wrote: “I knew Chloe extremely well.
“She was such a hard worker – if Chloe was working in a bay, you knew the patients would be safe and well looked after.
“She was one of the youngest members of staff but always loud and bubbly.
“On her first day she arrived looking immaculate, with perfect hair and make-up.
“If we went on a night out she was always glamorous, with her eyebrows and eyelashes looking amazing.”
Close friend Paige Greaves wrote a touching message on a GoFundMe she set up for the family.
She wrote: “Chloe Arnold was a wonderful girl with an amazing personality that lit up the room when she entered.
“Chloe sadly suffered a cardiac arrest and sadly didn’t get better.
“She is now flying high with angels.
“We are looking to raise money for Chloe’s family to give her the most beautiful send-off!”
Chloe leaves behind her sisters Mercedes, 22, and Ellie Mae, 10, brother Henley, 11, dad Wayne Arnold, and boyfriend of nine months Jay Beech, 26.
