Federal politicians who called for death-in-custody inquiries to be independent of a territory's police force have been blasted by a chief minister.
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The 89p cupboard staple that will get your decking sparkling for summer – it works better than a pressure washer
AN EXPERT has revealed an 89p hack to make sure your decking is sparkling this summer.
Now that summer is finally upon us, and with temperatures set to ramp up again this week, many of us are likely making plans to have friends and family over for BBQs.
However, before you invite any guests over, you’ll want to make sure your decking is looking in tip top shape.
If your decking is covered in dirt and unsightly algae, your first thought might be to blast it with a pressure washer, however, these can be incredibly pricey.
Plus, using a pressure washer on softwood decking or composite boards can even damage it by stripping away protective coatings and causing splintering.
For those looking for a more penny-pinching-friendly approach, Helen Godsiff, a home improvement expert from Eurocell, has revealed that white vinegar is perfect for getting your decking sparkling.
She said: “As we head into the summer months, your garden becomes an extension of your living space, and a well-maintained deck can make it the perfect spot for enjoying the sunnier evenings and hosting gatherings.
“With just a bit of preparation and the right cleaning approach for your decking, you can revive tired boards, prevent long-term damage and subsequent costs, and enjoy a more attractive outdoor space.”
Before cleaning your decking, make sure to remove all furniture, plant pots and accessories from your decking, and then give it a sweep to remove any loose debris.
Then, mix half of white vinegar with one quarter of a cup of baking powder and three litres of water.
Use a soft brush to rub the vinegar mixture into the patio, then make sure to rinse it thoroughly afterwards.
Helen warned: “Vinegar is a natural and effective cleaner, but it contains acetic acid, which can stain your deck if left on the surface too long.”
The expert revealed that to make sure your decking looks in good condition all year round, regular maintenance is essential.
“Simple maintenance like brushing away fallen leaves, using pot feet for air circulation, placing covers over outdoor furniture and ensuring good drainage around the deck area can also help reduce long-term wear and weather damage”, Helen said.
The expert added that timber decking requires a little more upkeep than other types of decking so its a good idea to apply a sealant or decking oil once a year.
And if your decking is covered in mould, social media users recently revealed another budget friendly hack to get it sparkling.
How to clean green algae off decking
Is your decking covered in green algae or moss?
The experts at Ronseal have shared their guide to cleaning your decking after a wet and warm winter.
You’ll need:
- A wire brush
- Decking cleaner
- A pressure washer or hose
- Clear the decking
Clear your decking and grab a broom – give it decking a good sweep to dislodge any dirt.
- Choose your cleaner
Some cleaners are better at tackling certain jobs than others, so you need to consider what it is you want the cleaner to do.
- Decking Cleaner and Reviver preps new wood whilst cleaning up older decking. It can tackle algae and mould and can be used over stains and oils. It’s a good general-purpose cleaner and can brighten up your decking throughout the year. This is good for decking that’s dirtier than average and in instances where a brush and jet wash don’t quite cut it.
- Decking Stripper is for tough stubborn stains that won’t budge. It does exactly what it says on the tin and strips all stains and oils from your decking. It’s ideal for prepping your deck ready for a fresh coat of stain, paint or oil. This is most effective with really, really dirty and discoloured decking that needs reviving.
- Clean your decking
Top tip: Before you power ahead, read the instructions on the back of the packet. Some of our cleaners don’t need water and can be poured directly onto your decking.
Posting in the Facebook group “Cleaning tips tricks and hacks” one person asked: “Has anyone got any hacks for cleaning green mould off decking and patio areas without a power washer and a lot of scrubbing.”
One reply said: “Washing powder! Sprinkle all over it and brush it in, let the rain do the rest – it comes up really bright and clean.”
According to gardening enthusiasts from the popular Gardening On A Budget Official group on Facebook, the common laundry essential is a good hack for cleaning patios.
One member of the page explained: “I’ve used Aldi washing powder in hot water and brushed on with a stiff broom.
“Removed months of dirt and moss,” the gardening lover claimed.
If you want to give this a go you can pick up Aldi washing powders from £3.95 for a 2kg bag.
Third Chinese scientist arrested after smuggling ‘biological pathogens’ into US from Wuhan after ‘agroterrorism’ probe
A THIRD Chinese scientist has been charged for allegedly smuggling “biological material” into the United States.
It is the second such case within a matter of days after a University of Michigan researcher and her boyfriend were charged for allegedly bringing a toxic fungus into the country.
In the latest case, Han Chengxuan was arrested at Detroit Metropolitan Airport on Sunday.
Cops claim she sent four packages from China to the States that contained “biological material related to round worms”.
These packages were sent to people linked to the University of Michigan lab between September 2024 and March 2025.
Han has been charged with smuggling goods into the United States.
She initially denied sending the parcels at all, court documents claim.
Han would then insist they contained plastic cups rather the petri dishes before ultimately admitting to sending the samples, the documents add.
They had reportedly been collected during her PhD research in the Chinese city of Wuhan.
FBI Director Kash Patel posted on X: “Han is alleged to have sent four packages to the U.S. from China containing a biological material related to round worms — addressed to individuals associated with a lab at the University of Michigan.
“Upon arriving at the Detroit Metropolitan Airport on June 8, Han allegedly made false statements to federal officials regarding the packages she had previously mailed — and had erased her electronic device just days prior.
“In a follow up interview with FBI and ICE HSI agents, Han admitted to sending the packages and lying about their contents.
“This case is part of a broader effort from the FBI and our federal partners to heavily crack down on similar pathogeon smuggling operations, as the CCP works relentlessly to undermine America’s research institutions.”
It comes after two other Chinese scientists were charged last week for allegedly trying to smuggle a toxic fungus into the States.
Researchers Jian Yunqing, 33, and Liu Zunyong, 34 are facing charges of smuggling goods, conspiracy, visa fraud and providing false statements.
They are alleged to have tried to bring Fusarium graminearum into the country – which can cause severe damage to livestock and crops.
Authorities claim the fungus could be used as a “potential agroterrorism weapon”.
Prosecutors say Liu attempted to smuggle it through Detroit Airport so it could be studied at a University of Michigan laboratory.
Jian, who is Liu’s girlfriend, worked at the lab according to prosecutors.
The university did not have the necessary federal permits to handle this pathogen.
A statement from the university says the institution has not had “funding from the Chinese government in relation to research conducted by the accused individuals”.
Officials further allege that Jian is a Chinese Communist Party member, and that her research on the fungus in China got Chinese government funding.
Liu allegedly lied about trying to bring the pathogen into the country in July 2024 before later admitting it.
While Jian has been arrested in the US, Liu was sent back to China at the airport – so his arrest is unlikely unless he returns.
Following Jian’s arrest, FBI Director Kash Patel posted on X: “This case is a sobering reminder that the CCP is working around the clock to deploy operatives and researchers to infiltrate American institutions and target our food supply, which would have grave consequences… putting American lives and our economy at serious risk.”
Who are Jian Yunqing and Liu Zunyong?
Jian Yunqing and Liu Zunyong are alleged to have smuggled a toxic fungus into the United States.
Prosecutors claim Liu had attempted to bring the pathogen into the country through Detroit Metropolitan Airport.
Officials claim the intention was to smuggle the fungus in to be studied at a University of Michigan lab – where Liu’s girlfriend Jian worked.
It is further alleged that Jian received Chinese government funding for her research on the fungus in China.
She has since been arrested, but Liu’s detention is unlikely unless he returns to the States as there is no extradition agreement between the US and China.
According to the FBI, Fusarium graminearum is a “potential agroterrorism weapon” that can cause vomiting, liver damage, and reproductive defects in humans and livestock.
Ситі й стильні: Кацурін з дітьми і Дорофєєвою замилували сніданковим селфі (фото)
Ресторатор Міша Кацурін показався за сніданком зі своїми дітьми і дружиною. У своєму Instagram Міша запстив спільне фото з Надею Дорофєєвою, донькою Сашею, сином Іваном і мафінами. Міша висловив свої емоції одним словом До речі, в арсеналі Кацуріна є чимало цікавих рецептів сніданків, однак він нерідко навідується дегустувати інші Цікаво, що діти Міші від […]Як очистити унітаз від старого нальоту без магазинної хімії
Унітаз можна очистити без їдкої хімії, якщо взяти два прості інгредієнти. Матеріал самого унітазу не пошкодиться, як і сифонна труба, що часто буває, коли використовують магазинні засоби. Подробиці Для такого засобу вам знадобиться 200 мл оцту та 1 столова ложка соди. Ключовий секрет цього методу полягає у тому, щоб перед змішуванням обох компонентів потрібно […]Why does the summer transfer window close today and when does it reopen?
SOME huge deals have already been completed this summer, and many more are in the pipeline.
Chelsea and Manchester City have already done a lot of their business as they look to go into the lucrative Club World Cup with their new talent on display.
TRANSFER NEWS LIVE – KEEP UP WITH ALL THE LATEST FROM A BUSY SUMMER WINDOW
City have already signed Wolves wing-back Rayan Ait Nouri in a package worth £36.3million.
And Pep Guardiola is expected to add three more players worth a collective £80m before tonight’s deadline.
Rayan Cherki, Tijjani Reijnders and Marcus Bettinelli are all set to come through the door at the Etihad.
Elsewhere, Chelsea have already completed the signings of Liam Delap and Mamadou Sarr.
The Blues have also been linked with Borussia Dortmund’s Jamie Gittens and AC Milan’s Mike Maignan.
But the clock is ticking for Chelsea and other clubs to complete deals before the Club World Cup.
Why does the summer transfer window close today and when does it reopen?
This summer, the transfer window has been split into two sections, with the first running from Sunday, June 1, to 7pm BST on Tuesday, June 10.
The reasoning behind the early window is to allow teams competing in the Club World Cup to make signings before the tournament begins on June 15.
The second part of the window will then reopen on Monday, June 16, before closing properly on Monday, September 1 at 7pm BST.
The window can be open for a maximum of 12 weeks, which is why there is a six-day break in between the two parts to allow it to run to September 1.
Club World Cup 2025 Guide
SOME of the world’s biggest clubs are heading Stateside for a MAMMOTH Club World Cup.
Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, Man City, and Inter Miami are among the 32 teams taking part in the tournament, which runs from June 14 to July 13.
Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland, Ousmane Dembele, Cole Palmer and Harry Kane will be showing their skills to packed crowds across the US.
Los Blancos are favourites to lift the trophy in New York but will face stiff competition from around the globe.
Watch EVERY match of the Club World Cup 2025 on DAZN
Here’s everything you need to know ahead of the tournament…
INFO
- Everything you need to know ahead of the Club World Cup
- Club World Cup draw in FULL
LATEST NEWS & FEATURES
- Club World Cup winner to be given special shirt for four years
- Gary Lineker agrees deal to present Club World Cup
- Referees to wear bodycams – with footage shown to fans
- How Liam Delap can re-invigorate Cole Palmer in the US
- Jack Grealish to be SNUBBED in Man City Club World Cup squad
- DAZN unveil brilliant promo with legendary boxing announcer drafted in
- Cristiano Ronaldo will NOT play at the CWC despite ‘many invitations and proposals’
Chelsea set to lose talented striker, 19, who embarrassed first team stars as he rejects new contract
CHELSEA are set to lose a talented academy striker who has outshone the first team.
Donnell McNeilly has turned down a new deal at Stamford Bridge.
TRANSFER NEWS LIVE – KEEP UP WITH ALL THE LATEST FROM A BUSY SUMMER WINDOW
The striker is set to leave the club at the end of his contract, which expires this summer.
The Athletic have claimed that the Blues wanted to hand him an extension.
However, McNeilly, 19, rejected the opportunity to stay at the club.
It is suggested that the forward is keen to gain more first-team experience and playing time.
He has not played a single minute for Chelsea‘s first team despite embarrassing senior stars in training.
Manager Enzo Maresca cancelled a day off for the first team after McNeilly scored a brace against them.
The goals came in a match between the senior side and the Under-21s.
McNeilly is one of the leading scorers in the youth ranks with 12 in 18 Premier League 2 games.
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He will have plenty of options with EFL clubs lining up for his signature.
The youngster may not have to drop down a level as he is gaining interest from Premier League clubs.
The report has suggested that McNeilly will pick the team with the “best pathway” to first-team football.
Meanwhile, Chelsea are also losing a forgotten man who has not played in THREE years.
Back-up goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli agreed a deal to join Manchester City.
He will be the replacement for veteran Scott Carson, who has left the Etihad.
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in-depth coverage and exclusives from Stamford Bridge
Rita Ora looks incredible as she strips off to thong bikini to enjoy an ice lolly by the pool
RITA Ora sizzled by the pool as she stripped down to a barely-there thong bikini – cooling off with nothing but an ice lolly and a cheeky smile.
The pop star, 33, flaunted her incredible figure in the skimpy bright orange swimwear as she soaked up the sun while dancing by the pool.
With her blonde locks swept back and pink lip on, Rita looked every inch the glam goddess while enjoying her frozen treat.
She captioned her Instagram video: “Summer 25 just got hotter.”
Fans couldn’t get enough of her latest look, flooding the comments with fire emojis and praise for her “natural beauty”.
One said: “An Absolute Goddess.”
Another added: “Blooming as ever.”
A third penned: “You look amazing!”
Rita oozed confidence has she danced to her new single, Heat.
She doesn’t hold back on the upbeat track, with racy lyrics including: “Sex on sight, anywhere you like. Inside or outside.”
Another line has Rita singing: “Only one thing I need. Your heat on me.”
Talking about her new summer banger, the singer told The Sun: “I wanted to really celebrate my sexuality and the way I am as a woman.
“My last album was so different, it was about my love life and getting married.
“But with this next lot of music I wanted it to be so carefree and back to how I was coming up in the industry.
“I wanted to celebrate everything I have become. It’s not super deep, just fun.”
Rita is happily married to Hollywood director Taika Waititi and even three years after they married, she is still in the honeymoon phase, adding: “I feel in a really great happy place right now.”
She is now turning her hand to playing Cupid with her pals so they find “the one”, telling me not to only go for “your type on paper”.
After five years, a UK tour also looks to be just around the corner.
Rita said: “My favourite thing is performing live. The fact I can still say I get to do it is a blessing. I am really lucky.
“I’m supporting Ricky Martin on tour and hopefully next year my own tour. There is a lot happening.
“I’m hitting the ground running. My time off is usually around Christmas.”
Christy Martin’s Weight Class Is the Reason Why Sydney Sweeney Had to Gain 30 lbs to Make the Biopic Look as Authentic as Possible
Before the internet caught fire over bathwater headlines, Sydney Sweeney was already turning heads for a very different reason, her jaw-dropping transformation for the Christy Martin biopic. It most definitely marked a clear shift from the image she built after her breakout as Cassie. Every red carpet look only cemented her s-x symbol status. But […]
This post belongs to FandomWire and first appeared on FandomWire
Shoppers race to Aldi for £12.99 buy that illuminates your garden and turns it into a Moroccan-inspired space
ALDI has yet another bargain option to jazz up your garden ahead of summer.
The bargain supermarket chain is offering up a double pack of solar Marrakesh crook lanterns for just £12.99.
The metal lanterns comes in black or bronze colour and stands at 15x15x15cm.
Six LED lights have on and off switches in the pack of two stylish lanterns.
The Moroccan cut outs in the lanterns will add a chic lighting pattern across any garden.
It’s also very easy to use, the lanterns just need to be left out into the sun during the day to recharge so that they’re ready to go in the evening.
The solar recharge is also a great, eco-friendly option for those who are environmentally conscious.
But anyone keen on the lanterns better rush to Aldi to snap them up because they’re only while stocks last.
As Brits get ready for summer by revamping their garden, many are also rushing to Aldi for the perfect accessory to keep them cool in the summer months.
A Dyson dupe known as the Ambiano Bladeless Fan has made a welcome comeback just in time for the warmer weather.
The German supermarket has re-released the bladeless fan to help you keep cool – but it won’t be there for long.
The modern design bladeless fan has three speed settings, high, medium, low, plus three modes: normal, nature and sleep.
You can customise your sleep with the various modes and tailor it to your own temperature needs during the day – and most importantly, for a good night’s sleep at bedtime.
There’s a handy timer (from 1 – 12 hours), a seven colour LED lighting ring, fixed and oscillation function, swivel control and a remote control.
Part of Aldi’s Specialbuys, the chic Design Fan comes in at £39.99 making it much easier on the bank balance than rivals.
More Aldi middle aisle buys
IF it's middle aisle buys that you're looking here, some of the new items you won't want to miss.
Shoppers recently went wild for Aldi’s new ‘pregnancy and menopause essential’ – and it’s only £6.99.
Garden enthusiasts raced to nab a £6.99 buy that will add style to any garden in an instant.
A £12.99 garden find left shoppers open-mouthed – but you’ll need to sprint to nab it.
If you’re looking to light up your garden this summer, you won’t want to miss this £8.99 solar light.
Plus, with its bladeless design, it’s safe around little people or pets.
The sought-after accessory is also incredibly quiet and makes only 56 decibels of sound.
Ready to fly off the store’s middle aisles once again, the affordable, sleek gadget comes in £200 cheaper than the Dyson original and £30 cheaper than Lidl‘s own.
