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Meta plans globe-spanning sub-sea internet cable

Meta has announced plans to build a 50,000km (31,000 mile) sub-sea cable across the world. The tech giant said Project Waterworth – connecting the US, India, South Africa, Brazil and other regions – will be the world’s longest underwater cable project when completed. Meta, which owns Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, has sought to extend its […]

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Global superbrand closes huge UK outlet in blow to high street leaving shoppers gutted

A GLOBAL superbrand has shut one of its enormous UK outlets in a massive blow to high street shoppers.

Rumours had circulated in January that the store could close due to a failure of the company to secure a new lease agreement with its landlords.

Nike store sign.
Getty
The Nike store at Craigleith Retail Park in Edinburgh, Scotland, has closed[/caption]

Now, we can confirm the Nike store at Craigleith Retail Park in Edinburgh, Scotland, has closed for good.

The storefront at the busy retail park in Scotland’s second largest city was seen painted over in black.

It had been previously understood that the Nike store would shut its doors on January 26.

In a document to staff, shared with Edinburgh Live, Nike had confirmed there could be “proposed redundancies”.

The sportswear retailer indicated that the job losses would come as a result of the failure to secure a new lease agreement at the site.

Its letter to staff read: “Based on results and on Nike being unable to agree a new lease agreement with the landlords, Nike is proposing the closure of Edinburgh Craigleith with an anticipated last trading date of 26th January 2025 resulting in a proposed redundancy situation.”

Shoppers have been mourning the “sad” loss of the store, with one saying: “That’s a shame.

“Have bought a lot of things in it for birthdays/xmas at good prices.

“I’ll miss it.”

Another added: “That’s sad.

“It’s what happens when everyone shops online.

“Shops are closing almost every week now”.

Some were frustrated by the loss of the “very popular” store, calling its closure “pretty annoying”, while others felt “gutted” by the situation.

Another highlighted the recent losses of other stores in the same retail park.

They said: “Ooo no Craigleith has lost Clarks few years ago now Nike.

“Less and less decent shops there.”

A Nike spokesperson had previously said: “We constantly evaluate our store locations to give us the best opportunity to personally connect with consumers through premium products, experiences, and services.

“As part of this retail strategy, the Nike Craigleith Store will close per January 26.”

This comes as one of Britain’s oldest department stores launched a closing down sale just months before its last remaining shop shuts for good.

Beales, which was founded in Bournemouth in 1881, will close its branch in Poole’s Dolphin Centre on May 31.

Starting today, the sale will clear all the remaining stock in the store before it closes its doors for good.

Items including furniture, fashion, gifts and cosmetics are being sold for up to 70 per cent off.

Beales chief executive Tony Brown blamed the “devastating impact” of the rise in national insurance contributions and the higher minimum wage for the shop shutting.

When the closure was announced, he said the business had become “unviable” as it prepared to take on further cost increases which were announced in the October Budget.

Closed sign in a shop window.
Getty
It had been reported the Nike store in Edinburgh was unable to secure a new lease at Craigleith Retail Park[/caption]

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Pope Francis, 88, battling ‘complex’ illness in hospital as Vatican issues new statement on his health

POPE Francis is “stable” but will remain in hospital as medics treat him for a “complex” condition, The Vatican announced.

The pontiff, 88, was hospitalised on February 14, where he has been staying for treatment of a respiratory infection.

Pope Francis waving from a car.
AFP
Pope Francis, 88, was hospitalised earlier this week[/caption]
Pope Francis at a Jubilee audience.
Reuters
He is being kept in hospital after medics found complications with his respiratory infection[/caption]

Details of his illness emerged this afternoon, when The Vatican announced the Pope would be staying in hospital after complications were discovered.

But this evening, Catholics around the world received the welcome news that their leader was stable and without fever.

A statement from the Vatican read: “The Holy Father continues to be afebrile [without fever] and is continuing the prescribed therapy.

“His clinical conditions are stable.

“This morning he received the Eucharist and subsequently dedicated himself to some work activities and reading texts.”

Pope Francis is said to be “touched” by the outpouring of support he has received, which includes messages of affection and drawings.

He is particularly grateful for well wishes from other people currently staying in hospital, The Vatican said.

The Pope has been under close observation since being taken to the Gemelli Hospital in Rome, Italy.

Officials revealed that tests over the past few days have indicated he is suffering from a “complex clinical picture”.

They added that the discovery of a “polymicrobial infection of the respiratory tract” changed his course of treatment.

More to follow… For the latest news on this story keep checking back at The Sun Online

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Pope Francis reading from a book during mass.
AFP
The Catholic leader is said to be stable and still carrying out work[/caption]

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My mother-in-law’s cleaning advice drove me crazy until she taught me a no-scrub shower tip – I NEVER get water stains

LIMESCALE can be a stubborn stain but it doesn’t have to be difficult to remove.

One woman shared the every day step her mother-in-law taught her to prevent a build up in her shower.

Shower head with hard water damage.
Getty
TikTok user AJ shared the DIY cleaning hack her mother-in-law taught her to lift limescale build up (stock image)[/caption]

In her viral video, TikTok user AJ (@a.j..mel) revealed the two ingredients that can make all the difference.

She shared that her mother-in-law is “full of hacks for every single thing.”

Rather than use a traditional cleaning product, she swears by two household items for tackling limescale.

According to AJ, the simple trick means you can “forget scrubbing” hard water stains.

Instead, she recommended using distilled white vinegar, available for 35p from Aldi.

The TikToker mixed this with washing up liquid, which you can pick up for just 69p from Aldi.

AJ advised her audience to spray their showers with the mixture after every use.

“Soap scum? Hard water stains? They never get the chance to build up,” she explained.

White vinegar is effective for removing hard water stains because it is acidic in nature.

This means it can dissolve mineral deposits left behind by hard water on various surfaces.

If you already have a build up of hard water in your shower, simply spray white vinegar directly on the stained area and allow it to sit for 30 minutes.

Using a sponge, you can simply lift the limescale, working the stain until it disappears.

Mixing in washing up liquid can help to break down the stain as it is designed to tackle grease.

Make sure you dilute the solution with water before spraying it in your shower.

TikTok users shared their thoughts on the advice in the comments section.

More bathroom cleaning tips

Keeping a bathroom clean and fresh can sometimes feel like a daunting task, but with a few practical tips and a regular cleaning schedule, it can be much more manageable.

1. Regular Maintenance

Daily Wipe-Down: A quick daily wipe-down of surfaces, such as the sink, countertops, and taps, can prevent the build-up of grime and soap scum. Keep a microfibre cloth handy for this purpose.

Ventilation: Ensure that your bathroom is well-ventilated to prevent mould and mildew. Open windows or use an extractor fan during and after showers.

2. Tackling Limescale and Hard Water Stains

Vinegar Solution: Hard water can cause limescale build-up on taps and showerheads. Soak a cloth in white vinegar and wrap it around the affected areas for a few hours, then scrub with a brush.

Lemon Juice: Lemon juice is another effective natural cleaner for limescale. Apply it directly to the affected areas, let it sit for a while, and then rinse off.

3. Cleaning the Toilet

Toilet Cleaner: Use a specialised toilet cleaner to scrub the bowl. Apply the cleaner under the rim and allow it to sit for a few minutes before scrubbing with a toilet brush.

Bicarbonate of Soda and Vinegar: For a natural alternative, sprinkle bicarbonate of soda into the bowl, then add vinegar. The fizzing action helps to lift stains and disinfect.

4. Shower and Bath

Showerhead: Remove mineral deposits by soaking the showerhead in a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water. You can do this by filling a plastic bag with the solution and securing it around the showerhead with a rubber band.

Bathtub: Use a non-abrasive cleaner to scrub the bathtub. For stubborn stains, make a paste with bicarbonate of soda and water, apply it to the stains, and let it sit before scrubbing.

5. Tiles and Grout

Grout Cleaner: Grout can harbour mould and mildew. Use a grout cleaner or a mixture of bicarbonate of soda and water to scrub the grout lines. An old toothbrush can be particularly effective for this task.

Tile Cleaner: Regularly clean tiles with a mild detergent or a vinegar solution to keep them shiny and free of soap scum.

6. Mirrors and Glass

Glass Cleaner: Use a glass cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and water to clean mirrors and glass surfaces. Wipe with a microfibre cloth to avoid streaks.

Shower Doors: Prevent soap scum build-up on glass shower doors by using a squeegee to remove water after each use.

7. Floors

Sweep and Mop: Sweep the bathroom floor regularly to remove hair and dust. Mop with a mild detergent or a suitable floor cleaner to maintain cleanliness.

8. Trash and Laundry

Empty Bins: Empty bathroom bins regularly to prevent nasty smelling odours.

Laundry: Keep a small laundry basket in the bathroom for used towels and bathmats, and wash them regularly.

9. Finishing Touches

Air Fresheners: Utilise air fresheners or essential oil diffusers to maintain a pleasant fragrance in the bathroom.

Organisation: Ensure toiletries and cleaning supplies are neatly organised and stored to minimise clutter and facilitate easier cleaning.

“The ONLY cleaner I use for everything is washing up liquid, white distilled vinegar, and water. It’s the best cleaner hands down,” wrote one viewer.

“The vinegar tip is so real, it’s also a great way to get rid of mould too,” said another follower.

“The washing up liquid and vinegar in the shower!!! I hate the smell of vinegar but nothing works as good,” commented a third person.

“Ayyee girly, thanks for the shower hack!!!! Have a great day today, girl!!!” wrote another TikTok user.

“The vinegar and washing up liquid spray is about to be my next experiment,” said one follower.

Bottle of Bramwells Distilled Vinegar.
Aldi
You can pick up Bramwells Distilled Vinegar for just 35p from Aldi[/caption]
Magnum Original Washing Up Liquid (500ml) bottle.
Aldi
AJ recommended mixing in washing up liquid, available for 65p from Aldi[/caption]

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The Apprentice meets Love Island in new business show that challenges power couples to launch new firms

The Apprentice has had its fair share of behind-the-scenes romps over the years, so it makes sense to celebrate — not ban — such on-screen romances.

I can reveal a new competition series is in the works that will test whether being in love and in business together makes for the most successful partnerships.

An image collage containing 2 images, Image 1 shows Maya Jama at the 2024 MTV EMAs in Manchester, Image 2 shows Lord Alan Sugar at the Loose Women TV show
A new show mixing The Apprentice and Love Island, which are hosted by Maya Jama and Lord Sugar, will test business-savvy couples in high-stakes challenges

The Ultimate Power Couple, which is in the casting stages, will put ambitious young couples through challenges to uncover the best business duo.

The winning team will then be awarded a hefty cash investment in their business, plus big exposure to brands involved in the tough tasks.

And bragging rights as the UK’s most entrepreneurial lovebirds.

Referring to the hit TV shows hosted by Maya Jama and Lord Sugar, an insider told me: “This new series is what would happen if The Apprentice and Love Island had a baby — testing business-savvy couples in a series of challenges, and putting their relationship on trial too.

“Business meetings between date nights, strategy sessions across the dinner table, and boardroom showdowns that could spell for heartbreak and financial ruin.

“It’s a high-stakes game that encourages competitors to get their feelings for each other involved and prove their partnership is stronger than the rest.

“The series is already on the lookout for ‘power couples’ with big personalities to ensure there’s plenty of drama to go around.”

The series is the brainchild of Jolly Octopus Media, which is behind Carpool Karaoke and The Late Late Show.

Wee spot of woe for Alan

Alan Carr has revealed footage of his privates had to be cut from the BBC series he hosts with best pal Amanda Holden – after he did a wee, forgetting about the cameras.

The pair were on a kayaking trip as part of a segment in their show, Amanda & Alan’s Spanish Job.

Alan Carr and Amanda Holden holding shovels in front of a wall.
Alan Carr has told how he forgot he was being filmed for Amanda & Alan’s Spanish Job, when he got his ‘willy out to do a wee’
PA

He told his Life’s A Beach podcast: “There was a GoPro between my legs, but we were out there (in the kayak) for so long I forgot, and needed to do a wee. I got my willy out to do a wee, fell in and nearly drowned Amanda.

“I was scooped out by a lifeguard, and I said, ‘Oh, my God, the GoPro is between my legs’, but they said, ‘Oh, Alan, the footage is ruined’, and I was so pleased, of course.

“But when I got to the wrap party, a woman goes to me, ‘I’ve been editing round your knob this weekend’.”

He joked: “I gave them the money shot . . . I’m starting an OnlyFans now too!”


Bruce Parry will return to BBC Two with a new three-part series of Tribe, centring on the globe’s most remote areas.

He visits indigenous communities in the Amazon’s Waimaha, and Indonesia’s Sumba island. He said: “It’s been over 20 years since Tribe first aired, but it still feels vital.”


Dans in vans bid

SINCE leaving EastEnders, Danny Dyer has turned his hand to everything from acting to documentaries and travelogues.

Now he is delving into the niche world of caravanning.

Yes, I said caravanning.

The former Queen Vic hardman will set up his own park for the mobile homes on the Isle of Sheppey off Kent, in a new Sky show called The Dyers’ Caravan Park.

And Danny will do it all alongside his daughter Dani in the nostalgia driven six-parter.

The series is being made by Expectation, the production company behind Clarkson’s Farm on Prime Video.

Perhaps Danny and Dani will emerge as the new Jeremy Clarkson and Kaleb Cooper of the caravanning world.

Albert scare . . .

Despite being in EastEnders’ four previous live episodes, Natalie Cassidy says she’s terrified of featuring in the one on Thursday that celebrates the soap’s 40th anniversary.

Natalie, who plays Sonia Fowler, told Rylan Clark on BBC Radio 2: “I’m just a bit nervous, you could say, petrified.

Natalie Cassidy at the TV Choice Awards.
Getty
EastEnders star Natalie Cassidy admits she’s ‘petrified’ ahead of the soap’s 40th anniversary live episode[/caption]

“I’ve done it before but this one is a little bit more involved and it’s going to be rather electric.

“Sonia goes into labour, and she’s giving birth!”

The action live from Albert Square comes a day after tomorrow’s hour-long episode.

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Pete Davidson ‘ran out’ of SNL party when ex Kim Kardashian arrived because he ‘can’t be around her’

PETE Davidson abruptly left a Saturday Night Live-related party over the weekend after his ex-girlfriend Kim Kardashian arrived, The U.S. Sun can exclusively report.

Pete, 31, attended Chris Rock‘s 60th birthday party at the Crane Club in NYC on Saturday evening, as many Hollywood stars were in town for SNL’s 50th anniversary show on Sunday.

Pete Davidson arriving at Chris Rock's 60th birthday party.
TheImageDirect.com
Pete Davidson arrived at Chris Rock’s birthday party in the rain in NYC on Saturday, February 15[/caption]
Kim Kardashian arriving at Chris Rock's 60th birthday party.
TheImageDirect.com
Kim Kardashian showed up to the party after Pete had already arrived[/caption]
Kim Kardashian at the SNL 50th Anniversary Special.
Getty
Kim stunned in a silver gown at the red carpet for SNL’s 50th anniversary special[/caption]
Pete Davidson at the SNL 50th Anniversary Special.
Splash
Pete hid behind sunglasses at the big event in NYC and did not appear to interact with Kim[/caption]

A source said the comedian showed up to the party with friends.

As soon as Kim, 44, arrived, one of Pete’s pals said, “I gotta get Pete out of here. Pete’s got to go,” the source claimed, adding that the Riff Raff actor “really can’t be around” the reality star.

In addition to Kim and Pete, other partygoers included Tom Hanks, Madonna, Jerry Seinfeld, Adam Sandler, Chevy Chase, Blake Lively, Ryan Reynolds, Jon Hamm and Kim’s friend Amy Schumer.

“There were a lot of big names there, but it was very low-key,” the source said.

Both Pete and Kim had roles in the SNL anniversary show.

Kim, who met Pete on the set of SNL when she hosted in 2021, played the sister of Kristen Wiig’s zany Doonese in a sketch also starring Scarlett Johansson, Will Ferrell, Fred Armisen and Ana Gasteyer.

At one point, Kristen pretended to play the drums on Kim’s famous derriere.

Pete appeared in two sketches, reviving his character Chad and also starring with longtime friend John Mulaney in a musical number.

It is unclear if Kim and Pete spoke while appearing on the live show Sunday night, but a fan video reveals she walked right by him without a greeting on the red carpet.

A source told People that the exes were cordial and spoke at an after-party on Sunday evening.

WHIRLWIND ROMANCE

Kim and Pete began dating after they shared a kiss during an Aladdin sketch when she hosted in October 2021.

“It was a stage kiss, but it was still a little zing,” Kim said on the Not Skinny But Not Fat podcast

The couple was hot and heavy, and even attended the Met Gala together in 2022, when Kim wore Marilyn Monroe’s dress.

“I wasn’t even thinking, like, Oh my god, I’m going to be in a relationship with him,” Kim said on The Kardashians during their romance.

“I was just thinking, like, ‘Heard about this BDE, need to get out there.’ I was just basically DTF.”

They split in August 2022, after her ex Kanye West attacked Pete repeatedly on social media.

 “There was a lot of guilt and he went through a lot because of my relationship [with Kanye],” Kim later told sister Kourtney’s ex Scott Disick on the family’s Hulu show.

At the time, a source told The U.S. Sun that Kim ended the relationship after it got too serious for her.

Pete moved on with actress Chase Sui Wonders soon after the split, then Outer Banks star Madelyn Cline. He is currently single.

Kim is also single after a reported fling with Odell Beckham Jr.

Pete Davidson and another man in 1970s attire at an SNL party.
PBS
Pete starred in a sketch with fellow SNL alumni David Spade and John Mulaney[/caption]
Kim Kardashian, Pete Davidson, and Scarlett Johansson in a Saturday Night Live skit.
PBS
Kim acted in a sketch with Will Ferrell and Scarlet Johansson[/caption]
Kim Kardashian and Pete Davidson at the 2022 White House Correspondents' Dinner.
Kim and Pete attended the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner together in Washington, DC on April 30, 2022, four months before their split
Getty Images - Getty
Pete Davidson and Kim Kardashian at the Met Gala.
Getty
Pete was Kim’s date as she wore Marilyn Monroe’s Jean Louis-designed gown at the Met Gala in May 2022[/caption]

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Kids Eat Free deals to make dining out with your kids more affordable this half term

SCHOOL holidays means more mouths to feed, but dining out can be more affordable this half-term.

Take advantage of these Kids Eat Free deals to keep the whole family happy.

A girl happily eating a slice of pizza.
Getty
Kids Eat Free deals to make dining out with your kids more affordable this half term[/caption]

ITALIAN AFFAIR: Bella Italia is offering children aged two to 11 a free three-course meal with every full-price adult meal on Thursdays.

At Zizzi, under-12s can claim one free Bambini meal per paying adult until March 2, while Prezzo is offering a similar deal with free three-course kids’ meals.

At Franco Manca or Fireaway Pizza, one child under 12 gets a free kids pizza with every full-priced adult pizza.

BUDGET BREKKIE: Start the day at Bill’s, where children eat free every weekday until ­February 28 if an adult buys a main dish. At Beefeater or Brewers Fayre pubs, two kids under 16 eat free with every adult buying the £10.99 unlimited breakfast.

And at Premier Inn, two under-16s not only stay for free but can also enjoy a complimentary breakfast with every full-paying adult.

SUPERMARKET SAVINGS: When you buy any adult meal for £5 or more at a Morrisons cafe, under-15s get a free Birds Eye meal. Tesco Clubcard holders can grab a free kids’ pick ’n’ mix meal with any adult purchase at Tesco Cafes during the school holidays on weekdays.

FAST FOOD FEAST: Head to Burger King this week and order via its app to get a free King Jr Meal with every adult regular meal purchase.

The offer runs until February 21, but excludes restaurants at motorway service stations, airports, and train stations.

POSH NOSH: For a touch of luxury, head to selected Gordon Ramsay Restaurants, where one child (aged eight and under) gets a free main from the Ramsay Kids Menu with every adult dining from the a la carte menu.

Angus Steakhouse is also running a similar offer daily (except Saturdays) from 12-5pm.

  • All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability

Deal of the day

Green velvet ottoman bed.
Argos
The Luca small double ottoman was £450, but is now £225 at Argos[/caption]

SLEEP easy on a new bed. The Luca small double ottoman was £450, but is now £225 at argos.co.uk when you use the code RED50 at the checkout.

SAVE: £225

Cheap treat

Pot Noodle Chicken & Mushroom Flavor cup (90g).
Iceland
Pot Noodles are just 65p at Iceland[/caption]

SNACK on a cut-price Pot Noodle – they are usually £1.10 each, but you can get one for 65p at Iceland.

SAVE: 45p

What's new?

IT’S craft week at Lidl, where you can find a Singer sewing machine for £119, or £109 if you have the Lidl Plus app. With a heavy-duty metal frame, it offers 32 built-in stitch styles and an automatic needle threader.

Deal of the day

Teal glass table lamp with a gold base and Edison bulb.
Dunelm
Niamh glass ribbed lamp, £22, at Dunelm[/caption]
Green and gold ribbed glass table lamp.
Dunelm
Head to The Range for a similar style for £7.99[/caption]

LIGHT up your bedroom with the Niamh glass ribbed lamp, £22, at Dunelm. Or head to The Range for a similar style for £7.99.

SAVE: £14.01

Little helper

CHECK your Apple Music app to see if you can claim the new offer for a six-month subscription for £2.99. Sign in to your account and it should appear if eligible.

PLAY NOW TO WIN £200

a red and white logo for the sun raffle
Join thousands of readers taking part in The Sun Raffle

JOIN thousands of readers taking part in The Sun Raffle.

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