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Iconic Michelin-hailed family-run restaurant suddenly closes down as owner blames ‘unsustainably high costs’

AN ICONIC London restaurant has closed its doors due to “unsustainably high costs”.

The luxury eatery is the latest in a series of closures as financial pressures mount on family businesses. 

An image collage containing 1 images, Image 1 shows Interior view of a bar with a bartender, red seating, and artwork
La Goccia in Covent Garden is closing its doors
Petersham Nurseries
An image collage containing 1 images, Image 1 shows People seated outside a shop in Covent Garden, London
The restaurant is part of the Petersham restaurant empire
Alamy
Woman at podium speaking, sign says "Kickstart Economic Growth"
Rachel Reeves has stated that her budget was necessary for economic growth and stability
PA Media

La Goccia opened six years ago on Floral Court in Covent Garden

Known for its exciting Italian food and lavish interior, which referenced its owners horticultural heritage, it was a hib for food-lovers and tourists. 

However, on Sunday, the Petersham-owned restaurant suddenly closed. 

According to management, the restaurant had struggled with “unsustainably high costs” while battle property costs and debt.

They added that they were anxious about the “looming impact of the recent Budget”. 

In her October 2024 budget, Chancellor Rachel Reeves increased national insurance contributions for employers and increased minimum wage. 

Critics of the budget argued that this would increase costs for businesses, but Reeves insisted at the time that the move would support workers and stabilise the economy. 

The Italian restaurant also said that two other major events caused them to close. 

They said they decided to put their shutters down due to years of “significant cost challenges” caused by “covid and Brexit”. 

They told the Telegraph that they were unable to “recruit people with the right experience and skills” after Britain left the EU, adding to their business woes. 

The restaurant is owned by the Bolgione family, who launched their brand from their 17th century mansion Petersham House. 

Their luxury home was used as a set in the hit new Bridget Jones film

Another one of their restaurants, The Petersham in Covent Garden, will also be closing its doors for the same reasons as La Goccia. 

The Petersham, which shared a terrace with La Goccia, had been awarded with a Michelin star.

The news comes as the UK economy unexpectedly grew by 0.1 per cent at the end of 2024, with Reeves cheering that the economy was recovering. 

A year earlier, under Rishi Sunak’s government, the economy had shrunk by 0.3 per cent. 

In light of the news, Reeves said: “After 14 years of flat-lining living standards, we are going further and faster through our plan for change to put more money in people’s pockets.

“That is why we are taking on the blockers to get Britain building again, investing in our roads, rail and energy infrastructure, and removing the barriers that get in the way of businesses who want to expand.”

What is happening to the hospitality industry?

By Laura McGuire, consumer reporter

MANY Food and drink chains have been struggling in recently as the cost of living has led to fewer people spending on eating out.

Businesses had been struggling to bounce back after the pandemic, only to be hit with soaring energy bills and inflation.

Multiple chains have been affected, resulting in big-name brands like Wetherspoons and Frankie & Benny’s closing branches.

Some chains have not survived, Byron Burger fell into administration last year, with owners saying it would result in the loss of over 200 jobs.

Pizza giant, Papa Johns is shutting down 43 of its stores soon.

Tasty, the owner of Wildwood, said it will shut sites as part of major restructuring plans.

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Harry Fry gutted as he tells me big Arkle chance Gidleigh Park is sidelined again with ‘heart issue’

WHEN he races there’s no doubt Gidleigh Park is all heart, but behind the scenes issues with the crucial organ have returned to frustrate connections.

Harry Fry’s class act was due to run in the Ladbrokes Pendil Novices’ Chase at Kempton which fell to Rubaud, who was providing Paul Nicholls with a famous 14th success in the event.

Horse race jump.
Getty
Gidleigh Park is a top talent and 20-1 for the Arkle – but has been sidelined again with a recurring heart issue[/caption]

However, the seven-year-old was a notable absentee.

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Today, Fry told me: “Gidleigh Park had a setback last weekend and so we had to miss the Pendil. It’s not a new issue. It’s heart-related again.”

Gidleigh Park was back to his best with a bang when last seen defeating Caldwell Potter in the Grade 2 Fitzdares Lightning Novices’ Chase at Windsor. He jumped for fun from the front.

Fry continued: “Now we just have to manage his return to work. It’s frustrating and disappointing but we have a very good horse on our hands. We just have to do what is right for him.”

Gidleigh Park could have still been considered for Cheltenham without the latest issue – he is 20-1 for the Arkle – although Aintree had ultimately been the place connections had been aiming for.

Fry still has hopes, though, of making a Cheltenham splash, paritcularly with Idaho Sun who will aim for the bumper.

Idaho Sun is unbeaten in two starts at Newton Abbot and Windsor, where he went clear to score well in January.

Fry said: “I thought the bumper was looking a fairly open even until Willie Mullins had one hack up the other day and from the British contenders it looked as though we were right up there with Pipe’s Ascot winner (Windbeneathmywings). Idaho Sun is in good form.

“Altobelli has won his last two races well at Ascot and he’s in the Coral Cup. He went up a fair hike – 10lb – for his last success but he did it well. Beat the Bat would be interesting in either the Coral or Martin Pipe.”

Elsewhere… There should be some interesting Premier Racing Board Meetings at Chester Racecourse over the months ahead.

Chester has been outspoken over Premier Racing, and notably agitated over the restricted 2pm to 4pm window on a Saturday afternoon which has negatively impacted the course.

Just the other day, following an extensive recruitment process, Chester Race appointed Julie Harrington as a Non-Executive Director.
Harrington will replace Charles Barnett, who will step down from the Board at this year’s Annual General Meeting.

Harrington is, of course, a highly respected figure in British sport and business, but was Chief Executive of the British Horseracing Authority at the time when Premier Racing was introduced.

Indeed, only last year she said: “We should be encouraged that so many racecourses want to invest in and stage these Premier events. We will also see more promotional work and, we hope, a [Levy Board]-funded national campaign to support the work already being done by [Great British Racing] and the racecourses.

“Time and experience will help us determine the optimum number of Premier racedays with regards to racecourses and the horse population. This is the start of a two-year pilot and so we should resist the temptation to make snap judgements on its success based on limited experience.”

Oh to be a fly on the Chester boardroom wall!

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Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

  • Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
  • Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
  • Never chases their losses
  • Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
  • Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
  • Gamble Aware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

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Zelensky ‘screamed at Trump’s war envoy’ in furious row & refused US demands to sign Don’s deal ‘right there & then’

VOLODYMYR Zelensky reportedly shouted at Donald Trump’s envoy leaving the official trembling and shaken amid a furious row.

The US President is pushing for a quick peace and wants Ukraine to sign over resource rights to pay for military support.

Scott Bessent, U.S. Treasury Secretary, left, and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, speak during a meeting in Kyiv, Ukraine, Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2025. (AP Photo/Alex Babenko)
Volodymyr Zelensky met Scott Bessent in Kyiv on February 12
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy attends a meeting with Secretary of the Treasury of the United States Scott Bessent in Kyiv, capital of Ukraine. 12 Feb 2025 Pictured: President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy (L) and Secretary of the Treasury of the United States Scott Bessent hold a meeting in Kyiv, capital of Ukraine. Photo credit: ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA TheMegaAgency.com sales@mega.global
Zelensky reportedly shouted at Bessent during a closed-door meeting
FILE - A Ukrainian soldier fires a mortar at Russian positions in Bakhmut, Donetsk region, Ukraine, Thursday, Nov. 10, 2022. A top adviser to Ukraine's president has cited military chiefs as saying 10,000 to 13,000 Ukrainian soldiers have been killed in the country's nine-month struggle against Russia's invasion, a rare comment on such figures and far below estimates of Ukrainian casualties from Western leaders. Late Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022, Mykhailo Podolyak, a top adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, relayed new figures about Ukrainian soldiers killed in battle, while noting that the number of injured troops was higher and civilian casualty counts were “significant.” (AP Photo/Libkos, File)
A Ukrainian soldier fires a mortar at Russian positions in Bakhmut
Illustration of a proposed Ukraine peace plan map.

But Trump had asked for a staggering amount in payback from Ukraine – demanding £400bn in the original offer.

In a closed-door meeting in Kyiv on February 12, an “angry” Zelensky blasted Bessent for the offer which the envoy demanded he sign then and there, the Financial Times reports.

Zelensky’s gravelly voice could be heard through the gilded doors the meeting was held behind.

“He [Zelensky] was very angry,” a person present said.

The blast left Bessent, a former hedge fund boss, visibly flustered with his hands trembling as he spoke to reporters following the meeting.

Since then, the two sides have continued to negotiate the deal – but Zelensky is not yet ready to agree.

In return, White House officials have raged Zelensky would be “six feet under” without them as a row has erupted with Trump.

Kyiv is standing firm, reports Sky News, with some sources saying US and Ukrainian officials had spent “all night” negotiating on Thursday into the early hours of Friday.

In the latest offer, the US is demanding access to Ukraine’s rare earth minerals, oil, and critical infrastructure like ports.

Despite Trump demanding £400bn for “equalisation”, the US Congress thinks the US has only backed Ukraine with up to £137bn.

The dispute over the deal has led to a feud between the leaders with Trump slamming Zelensky as a “dictator” and sidelined him by starting peace discussions with Russia.

Trump also said the leader of Ukraine was “not very important” to be in meetings about peace – despite Ukraine having been invaded.

The President told governors at the White House: “I’ve had very good talks with Putin, and I’ve had not such good talks with Ukraine.

“They don’t have any cards, but they play it tough.”

Ukrainian soldiers firing a Javelin missile during military exercises.
AP
Ukrainian soldiers fire a US-supplied Javelin missile system[/caption]
President Zelenskyy answering media questions in front of Ukrainian F-16 fighter jets.
AP
The US has approved F-16 transfers to Ukraine[/caption]

Zelensky has also said he would step down as his country’s leader in exchange for peace or Nato membership.

The Ukrainian president said on Sunday: “If it’s about peace in Ukraine and you really want me to leave my position, I am ready to do that [in exchange for peace].

“Secondly I can exchange it for Nato [membership].

“If there is such an opportunity I’ll do it immediately without a long conversation about it.”

He emphasised that Ukraine’s security was his priority, not staying in office, adding that it was not his “dream” to remain president for a decade.

European leaders have been left reeling by being cut out of peace talks that Trump has started with Russia.

Zelensky and Von der Leyen at a memorial for fallen Ukrainian soldiers.
EPA
Leaders in Kyiv lay flowers Monday in remembrance of Ukrainians killed[/caption]
Meeting of European leaders and Canada's prime minister in Kyiv.
AFP
Dozens of world leaders are in Ukraine to support the country[/caption]

The new American administration has shifted position and started unilateral talks with Moscow as it demands a quick end to the war.

That’s left European capitals fuming – who have collectively backed Ukraine more than the US against the Russian invasion.

Meanwhile, the Kremlin has said there is no ground to talk to Europe about peace and wants Washington to “fully analyse the root causes of the Ukrainian conflict”.

World leaders are marking the third anniversary in a call that will pledge support for Ukraine and continue to call out Russia.

Some 30 have even gone to Kyiv, like EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and even Boris Johnson.

The massive show of support for Kyiv came as Germany’s new leader said Europe must stand alone from the US.

Ukrainian soldiers holding their national flag.
X/@ZelenskyyUa
Zelensky released a clip touting Ukrainians after three years of war[/caption]
Nighttime aerial view of a statue holding a shield with the Ukrainian trident, commemorating three years of war.
X/@ZelenskyyUa
The clip shows the Ukrainian Motherland Monument lit up in blue[/caption]

Zelensky said: “Nobody in the world believes the Russian lies about our country and our people, even those who became Russia’s ally.

“Russia’s strategic target is Europe, the European way of life and the future of Europe.

“And the future of Europe cannot be decided without Europe.” 

The valiant leader has shared a patriotic clip of courageous soldiers fighting the invading Russians and civilians pulling together to mark the sad occasion.

Set to stirring music, Zelensky shared footage of fearless Ukrainian troops fighting over the course of the three years and thanked them.

The clip also shows civilians protesting against Russia, doctors in surgery, and firefighters in bombed-out buildings.

Who could replace Zelensky?

Names have begun to emerge as to who could replace Zelensky if he were to resign.

Valery ZaluzhnyThe Iron General

Zaluzhny led the defence of Kyiv at the start of the war when Russia sent its special forces to their death at Hostomel Airport. Russia then tried to take Kyiv from the north by sending an Army from Belarus.

But the Iron General Zeluzhny is known for thinking outside of the box and has built a cult status in Ukraine.

He is currently the country’s ambassador to London.

Vitali Klitschko – The Champion Boxer

Klitschko is currently mayor of Kyiv and, standing at 6ft 7in, the former world boxing champion would be a heavyweight contender.

The boxer has led the city through daily bombardments by Russian drones and has become a powerful symbol of the city’s defence joining the territorial defence forces.

Like Zelensky, Klitschko would be a strong pro-European leader that Vladimir Putin would hate.

Viktor Medvedchuk – Putin’s Man

Ukrainian oligarch Medvedchuk is the godfather to Putin’s youngest daughter.

He was an important interlocutor between Moscow and Kyiv and backs a pro-Russian political party with several television stations he owns.

In 2021, he was arrested on suspicion of supporting Russian separatists – with the oligarch denying any wrongdoing.

The move is said to have infuriated Putin and was seen as one of the possible reasons he launched his invasion.

Incoming Chancellor Friederich Merz said his absolute priority was “to strengthen Europe as quickly as possible so that we can achieve real independence from the USA.”

Merz said: “More than ever, we must put Ukraine in a position of strength.

“For a fair peace, the country that is under attack must be part of peace negotiations.”

In Kyiv Monday, Trudeau addressed President Zelensky, praising his remarkable personal bravery, resilience and resolve.

He said: “You continue to inspire me and tens of millions of my fellow citizens back home in Canada.”

Trudeau pushed back on the Kremlin’s narrative, echoed in recent days by Trump and some members of his administration, that Ukraine bore responsibility for igniting the conflict.

Trudeau said: “This is not a conflict Ukraine wanted, provoked or asked for in any way.

“This is a war started for one reason and one reason only: Russia’s desire to erase Ukrainian history and expand their empire.”

Trump & Zelensky’s personal feud

DONALD Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky’s fiery feud ad turning the world upside down – and the pair have a bitter history.

2016 – Zelensky takes aim

The first time the pair are believed to have referenced one another came on a Ukrainian talk show featuring Zelesnky – then a star comedian – back in 2016.

Speaking about the lead up to that years US election, Zelensky made a comedic dig at the business tycoon turned Republican favourite.

He told TV viewers on the show: “Hillary won a confident victory in the debates, but considering that Donald Trump is the founder of the Miss World beauty contest, defeat in an intellectual competition should not upset him.”

2019 – Trump’s troubles

One of the first times the pair spoke came in 2019 as Trump phoned up Zelensky after he won the Ukrainian election.

Trump congratulated him before adding “you will do a great job”.

But his clear hostility towards Zelensky is also often traced back to the same year.

The Republican landed himself in trouble as he was impeached over allegations he withheld almost $400million in US security assistance to Kyiv unless it complied with Trump’s requests.

2019 – Bizarre panto skit

And in the aftermath of the row in 2019 – Zelensky was treated to a skit featuring Trump playing piano with his genitals on a special New Year’s Eve show.

The team from Kvartal 95 had Zelensky along as a guest to the event where they had a Trump impersonator take to the stage.

The short clip shows Trump on a video call to Zelensky as he passionately says: “I don’t like a lot of words, I like concrete actions.”

2020 – Trump’s X-rated rant

At the end of his first term in office, Trump reportedly ripped into Zelensky and Ukraine.

Former US National  Security Advisor John Bolton said over five years ago that Trump wasn’t Zelensky’s biggest fan when he first became president.

Bolton quoted Trump as saying: “I don’t want to have any f***ing thing to do with Ukraine.

“They f***ing attacked me. I can’t understand why… They tried to f*** me. They’re corrupt. I’m not f***ing with them.”

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Beloved Amazon Fire Stick rival axed after 12 years – and its pricey replacement is missing a huge app

GOOGLE has put the final nail in the coffin of its popular Amazon Fire Stick rival.

More than 100million Chromecast devices have been sold in the last 12 years.

Google Chromecast with Google TV device.
Google
Chromecast is the main rival to Amazon’s Fire Stick[/caption]
a white remote control sits on a wooden table
Google
The Google TV Streamer replaces the Chromecast[/caption]

But the tech giant announced last year that it was planning to discontinue the gadget.

Now, stock of the most recent model of Chromecast with Google TV appears to have completely run dry meaning it will now be confined to the dreaded “Google Graveyard”.

The firm has released a premium replacement device called the Google TV Streamer but it costs more than the Chromecasts.

Google TV Streamer retails for £99 and packs a number of enhancements, including extra storage space, improved performance so the device runs faster and smart hub features.

And unlike the Chromecast dongle form, the Google TV Streamer sits as a set-top box.

But five months after launching, the device is still missing one key app.

Brits still can’t access the BBC iPlayer app.

The broadcaster says the app is missing due to “a technical issue which we are working on with Google”.

“The BBC iPlayer app will be available to install on the 2024 Google TV Streamer in the near future,” the BBC’s support page explains.

Fortunately, telly lovers can finally access the Channel 4 app after a launch late 2024.

Although Chromecast is consigned to history, existing devices will continue to work for sometime yet.

Security updates are expected to run until September 2025, according to Android Police.

GOOGLE GRAVEYARD - DEAD GADGETS REVEALED

Google has earned a reputation for killing off features and projects, sometimes before their official release. Here are just a few examples over the years:

VPN by Google One – the virtual private network service encrypted users’ data and network activity and allowed them to mask their IP address. (2020-2024)

Google Podcasts – the podcast hosting platform doubled as an Android podcast listening app. (2018-2024)

Google Stadia – the cloud gaming service allowed users to stream gameplay through web browsers, TV, mobile apps, and Chromecast. (2019-2023)

YouTube Originals – the Google-owned company shuttered the program, which produced original content including scripted series, educational videos, and more. (2016-2022)

Google Hangouts – the cross-platform instant messaging service posed as a challenger to Microsoft’s Skype. (2013-2022)

YouTube Go – the app was aimed at making YouTube more accessible on mobile devices in emerging markets, with features like downloading video on Wi-Fi to view later. (2017-2022)

Google Duo – the video calling app allowed users to call anyone from their contact list. (2016-2022)

Cameos on Google – the tool allowed public figures to record video responses to the most common questions asked about them, which would display in Google Search results. (2018-2022)

Backup and Sync – the desktop software tool for Windows and macOS enabled users to sync files from Google Drive to their local machine. (2017-2021)

Google My Maps – the Android application allowed users to create custom maps for personal use or sharing on their mobile device. (2014-2021)

Image credit: Getty

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‘Don’t do bad things’ – Fans plead with Pep Guardiola as they spot secret Mo Salah charm offensive after Liverpool loss

PEP GUARDIOLA has been told to steer clear of Mohamed Salah after the Manchester City boss was spotted having a post-match chat with the Liverpool star.

The Egyptian was the star of the show as the table-topping Reds registered a 2-0 win to move 11 points ahead of second-placed Arsenal.

Mohamed Salah celebrating a goal.
AFP
Mohamed Salah bagged a goal and an assist in Liverpool’s 2-0 win over Manchester City[/caption]
Pep Guardiola and Mohamed Salah embracing after a match.
REUTERS
Salah was embraced on the pitch after the final whistle by City boss Pep Guardiola[/caption]
Salah and Guardiola talking after a Liverpool win.
TWITTER
The pair were spotted having a secret chat in the bowels of the Etihad[/caption]

Salah put Guardiola’s side to the sword with a goal and an assist at the Etihad and was spotted having a post-match chat with the City boss in the bowels of the Etihad.

Their brief chat was caught on camera and sent some footie fans into meltdown.

One wrote on X: “Pep Guardiola, don’t do bad things.”

Another said: “Pep recognises world-class elite Mo!”

And another said: “He beats the breaks off his team every year, yet Pep still absolutely adores him.”

One Reds fan remarked: “Hands off him.”

Another chimed in: “Guardiola says, ‘Let’s finish it together.'”

Salah’s haul at the Etihad took his season stats to a whopping 30 goals and 21 assists in 38 appearances.

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Mohammed Salah of Liverpool celebrating a goal.
REX
Mohamed Salah’s contract with Liverpool expires at the end of the season[/caption]

The 32-year-old’s contract with Liverpool expires at the end of the season, which he last month claimed would be his “last” with the club.

Ahead of the Reds’ clash with Manchester United, he said: “This is the first time I would say I really want to win the Premier League [over the Champions League].

“Why? Probably because we didn’t celebrate the last one we won the way we wanted and also coming back it’s my last year in the club.

“So you want to do something special for the city.”

When asked to elaborate, Salah added: “Do I really believe it’s my last year? So far yes.

“These last six months there is nothing, no progress. We are far away from progress but we just need to wait and see.”

Salah and his Liverpool team-mates will be back in action on Wednesday, welcoming Newcastle to Anfield.

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Everyone can see the flowers – but you have a high IQ & 20/20 vision if you spot the sneaky cat in 12 seconds

EVERYONE can see the flowers but only those with the sharpest minds can spot the sneaky cat in 12 seconds.

If you can spot the cat in the image within the time limit, then you can claim a high IQ and 20/20 vision.

Cactus plants in bloom with many white flowers.
Instagram/centraltucson.co
If you can spot the cat in 12 seconds then you can claim a high IQ and 20/20 vision[/caption]

This puzzle is particularly difficult, as on a first glance the cat seems nowhere to be find.

The keenest and most observant of viewers, however, may just be able to make out a pair of ears and whiskers nestled between the large cacti and white flowers.

If you’ve managed to successfully find the cat, give yourself a pat on the back.

If you’re still struggling, try a new tactic.

Try to study each flower in turn, and then move onto the next until you spot it.

Picture puzzles are a form of brain teaser that tests the reader’s critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

These challenges have the potential to boost intelligence and improve concentration.

How can optical illusions and brainteasers help me?

Engaging in activities like solving optical illusions and brainteasers can have many cognitive benefits as it can stimulate various brain regions.

Some benefits include:

  • Cognitive stimulation: Engaging in these activities challenges the brain, promoting mental agility and flexibility.
  • Problem-solving skills: Regular practice enhances analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
  • Memory improvement: These challenges often require memory recall and can contribute to better memory function.
  • Creativity: They encourage thinking outside the box, fostering creativity and innovative thought processes.
  • Focus and attention: Working on optical illusions and brainteasers requires concentration, contributing to improved focus.
  • Stress relief: The enjoyable nature of these puzzles can act as a form of relaxation and stress relief.

Still haven’t found the elusive cat?

Here’s a handy hint – have a look in the white flowers on the right-hand side.

Did you spot the cat?

Congratulations! You have 20/20 vision and a high IQ.

If you still can’t find it, here’s the solution.

The cat is circled in red.

If you enjoy testing your brain, have a look at our other optical illusions.

Cat hidden among white cactus flowers.
Instagram/centraltucson.co
The cat is hiding in the flowers[/caption]
Illustration of a repeating pattern of hot air balloons, airplanes, kites, umbrellas, butterflies, clouds, and suns on a blue background.
Galabingo
Can you spot the bird in 12 seconds?[/caption]
Illustration of two identical orange quolls sitting by a lake.
jagranjosh
Can you spot the 10 differences in this picture?[/caption]
Illustration of a family at the beach; children build a sandcastle while adults relax.
Can you find the hidden crab?
Illustration of a bird hidden among clouds, airplanes, hot air balloons, and kites.
Galabingo
Found it! The bird was on a cloud[/caption]
Illustration of a quokka and a numbered find-the-objects game.
jagranjosh
Well done! You found them all![/caption]
Illustration of a family at the beach; two children build a sandcastle while their parents relax.
Found it! The crab was hidden in the bushes

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BGT star Auzzy Blood’s real look revealed away from ‘terrifying’ show act as furious ITV viewers complain to Ofcom

TERRIFYING Britain’s Got Talent star Auzzy Blood looks worlds away from his on-stage persona in newly-discovered images.

The daredevil performer had ITV viewers wincing at his garish act that has been dubbed the scariest to ever feature on the talent show.

A performer with dramatic makeup performing with metal wires in their mouth.
ITV
Horrifying Auzzy Blood delivered a stomach-churning performance[/caption]
A performer with metal in their mouth performing on Britain's Got Talent, eliciting strong reactions from the judges.
ITV
He had hooks and screws through his nose[/caption]
Auzzy Blood, a musician, at a concert.
Not known, clear with picture desk
Auzzy looks fresh-faced in comparison to his BGT appearance[/caption]
Auzzy Blood, a tattooed man wearing headphones, sits in a sauna.
Not known, clear with picture desk
He looks unrecognisable from his BGT act[/caption]

In his stomach-churning routine, Auzzy horrifyingly put screws and hooks through his nose and mouth in sickening scenes.

Another moment saw him hoist himself up a rope using just a hook through his nose and mouth.

Auzzy did not speak at any point during his act and donned freakish stage make-up to add to the intensity of his performance.

He bore face paint that features splutters of red across his face that appeared to represent blood.

But when he is not frightening the life out of people on the BGT stage, professional sword-swallower Auzzy looks nothing like his performative self.

Images uploaded to his Instagram account show him without any face-paint or stage make-up at all.

In some snaps, Auzzy has short blonde hair whilst in others he sports a more shaven head look.

He is also not afraid to share a shirtless snap or two with an image showing him posing in a sauna in a pair of red shorts.

His tattooed body could be seen on full display as he pulled a cheeky face at the cameras.

On the show, the judges were left unable to look with Alesha Dixon going as far as to hit her buzzer.

Waiting for a debrief after finally getting back down to solid ground, Alesha said: “I can’t watch this act, but I can appreciate how good you are.”

“This is one of my favourite acts of the day, genuinely!” countered Simon, with the rest of the judges in agreement, with Amanda calling it “horrifically brilliant”.

But while the judges were sold, viewers were not, saying it was unsuitable for children and “left them feeling sick”, demanding Ofcom step in for inappropriate content before the 9pm watershed.

Taking to X/Twitter, one fan wrote: “@ofcom will be getting lots of complaints tomorrow from this guy hanging from his nose. My daughters nearly throwing up and I just couldn’t look at all. #bgt no.”

“I’ve sent one, my 6 year old was traumatised poor thing,” said another. “It’s not even 9pm.”

Britain's Got Talent's biggest 'fix' rows

Britain's Got Talent has been plagued with 'fix' rows over the years. How many of these do you remember?

Jasmine Elcock – 2016: Teenage singer Jasmine Elcock stunned the nation with her version of Cher’s Believe. But it then transpired she had already performed professionally in London’s West End. Jasmine, 14, admitted: “I’ve performed in Annie in the West End at about the age of nine or 10, but I really get nervous.”

IrShad Shaikh – 2017: BGT fans were left questioning the rule book when IrShad Shaikh auditioned. He got four red buzzers from the judges, which would usually mean an instant dismissal. Yet in a strange turn of events, they let him continue with his act…and put him through to the next round.

Colin Thackery – 2019: Elderly war veteran Colin won BGT in 2019, but there was an outcry over the final. He warbled his place to win with a version of We’ll Meet Again but fans were furious that escapologist Jonathan Goodwin didn’t even rank in the top three. Viewers felt Jonathan – who almost suffocated while being buried alive in a gravel pit – should have won.

Axel Blake – 2022: Comedian Axel Blake was given a Golden Buzzer in 2022 after making the judges laugh. But fans were fuming when they discovered Axel already had a show on worldwide streaming platform Amazon Prime. Despite this, Axel still went on to win the series.

Loren Allred – 2022: The 2022 series of BGT was hit with another controversy when singer Loren Allred also received a Golden Buzzer. She performed Never Enough from the smash hit musical movie The Greatest Showman and got a standing ovation. It later transpired Loren was actually the original voice behind the track.

Taryn Charles – 2024: Singer Taryn Charles is one of this year’s hopefuls lucky enough to receive the Golden Buzzer. Bruno Tonilio put her straight through to the semi-finals following her performance of (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman by Aretha Franklin, but it has now come to light that she is no stranger to TV. Viewers recognised Taryn from an episode of ITV1’s Starstruck, where she impersonated Whitney Houston for judges Olly Murs, Sheridan SmithAdam Lambert and Beverley Knight.

Person with face paint performing a dangerous act with a tube; do not try this at home.
ITV
The act left fans complaining to Ofcom[/caption]
A woman with blonde hair reacting with shock and horror.
ITV
Amanda could not believe what she was seeing[/caption]

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