The Times & The Sunday Times Homepage
CHRISTINA LAMB
When Russian soldiers told 14-year-old Vova Petukhov that he and his younger brother Sasha had 30 minutes to pack to move to Russia, he thought he would not see Ukraine again. “We were thinking then we would never come home,” he said. The boys, whose mother had died a few months before the war, were among 200 children stranded at Novopetrivka boarding school, a facility...When Russian soldiers told 14-year-old Vova Petukhov that he and his younger brother Sasha had 30...When Russian soldiers told 14-year-old Vova Petukhov that he and his younger brother Sasha had 30...
video
Disruption to travel and healthcare is set to continue for days after the worst global IT systems outage caused...Disruption to travel and healthcare is set to continue for days after the worst global IT systems outage caused computers running vital infrastructure to collapse. A software update by the US cybersecurity company CrowdStrike pushed out to computers running Microsoft Windows on Thursday night caused millions of PCs...Disruption to travel and healthcare is set to continue for days after the worst global IT systems outage caused computers...
rosie duffield | comment
Louise Callaghan in america
interview by decca aitkenhead
interview
Hannah Neeleman was pregnant with her eighth child and she had two due dates. The first was for a baby, obviously. The second, just under two weeks later, was for a beauty pageant. Neeleman had been crowned Mrs American in August 2023 at a Las...Hannah Neeleman was pregnant with her eighth child and she had two due dates. The first was for a...Hannah Neeleman was pregnant with her eighth child and she had two due dates. The first was for a...
OBITUARY | Video
Ray Reardon was one of Britain’s best-known sportsmen in an era when snooker regularly attracted some of the biggest...Ray Reardon was one of Britain’s best-known sportsmen in an era when snooker regularly attracted...Ray Reardon was one of Britain’s best-known sportsmen in an era when snooker regularly attracted...
If Strictly Come Dancing fails to survive the bullying scandal, we may look back at the “emotional summit” between...If Strictly Come Dancing fails to survive the bullying scandal, we may look back at the...If Strictly Come Dancing fails to survive the bullying scandal, we may look back at the...
President Biden’s family members are said to have held discussions about if and how he could withdraw from the 2024...President Biden’s family members are said to have held discussions about if and how he could...President Biden’s family members are said to have held discussions about if and how he could...
President Biden said he was looking forward to getting “back on the campaign trail” as he sought to dampen reports of...President Biden said he was looking forward to getting “back on the campaign trail” as he sought...President Biden said he was looking forward to getting “back on the campaign trail” as he sought...
interview
Stephanie Jory grew up in a large semi-detached house on a leafy north London street. Her parents drove nice German...Stephanie Jory grew up in a large semi-detached house on a leafy north London street. Her parents...Stephanie Jory grew up in a large semi-detached house on a leafy north London street. Her parents...
Nine weeks before I turned 60 I set myself a fitness challenge to get into the best shape of my life. I wanted to...Nine weeks before I turned 60 I set myself a fitness challenge to get into the best shape of my...Nine weeks before I turned 60 I set myself a fitness challenge to get into the best shape of my...
The unofficial Olympic motto that the games are not about winning but taking part will carry special meaning for 69 countries at the opening ceremony of Paris 2024. A third of the 206 countries snaking their way along the Seine for the opening...The unofficial Olympic motto that the games are not about winning but taking part will carry...The unofficial Olympic motto that the games are not about winning but taking part will carry...
A British Airways pilot allegedly filmed himself spanking a naked cabin crew member with a riding crop before sending...A British Airways pilot allegedly filmed himself spanking a naked cabin crew member with a riding...A British Airways pilot allegedly filmed himself spanking a naked cabin crew member with a riding...
Friends of a British travel agent and his business partner who are believed to have been murdered in Sweden have...Friends of a British travel agent and his business partner who are believed to have been murdered...Friends of a British travel agent and his business partner who are believed to have been murdered...
my week
It all started when I met up with Donald Trump’s two oldest sons. “We loved your audiobook!” said Eric. “It’s also an...It all started when I met up with Donald Trump’s two oldest sons. “We loved your audiobook!” said...It all started when I met up with Donald Trump’s two oldest sons. “We loved your audiobook!” said...
THE TIMES DIARY
Jacqui Smith has returned to the Department for Education as a minister in the Lords 25 years, almost to the day...Jacqui Smith has returned to the Department for Education as a minister in the Lords 25 years...Jacqui Smith has returned to the Department for Education as a minister in the Lords 25 years...
photography
For more pictures from The Times follow us on InstagramFor more pictures from The Times follow us on InstagramFor more pictures from The Times follow us on Instagram
DISPATCH FROM Caracas
One in four have fled Maduro’s economic chaos. Can the opposition coax them back?
At least 11 people were killed when a bridge collapsed into a river following torrential rain and flash flooding in...At least 11 people were killed when a bridge collapsed into a river following torrential rain and...At least 11 people were killed when a bridge collapsed into a river following torrential rain and...
More than 400 people have died at the hands of Dr Ellen Wiebe. Many were elderly, others were terminally sick and out...More than 400 people have died at the hands of Dr Ellen Wiebe. Many were elderly, others were...More than 400 people have died at the hands of Dr Ellen Wiebe. Many were elderly, others were...
Across Australia, the “guinea flower” shrub is a common sight. But the innocuous yellow plants of the Hibbertia group have a controversial namesake — George Hibbert, a leading member of Regency Britain’s pro-slavery lobby. Hibbertia and other...Across Australia, the “guinea flower” shrub is a common sight. But the innocuous yellow plants of...Across Australia, the “guinea flower” shrub is a common sight. But the innocuous yellow plants of...
When it opened in 1989, The Mirage hotel and casino was extravagant even by Las Vegas standards.
An imitation...When it opened in 1989, The Mirage hotel and casino was extravagant even by Las Vegas...When it opened in 1989, The Mirage hotel and casino was extravagant even by Las Vegas...
Germany’s culture minister has been accused of sacrilege for suggesting that the annual Bayreuth Festival, a place of...Germany’s culture minister has been accused of sacrilege for suggesting that the annual Bayreuth...Germany’s culture minister has been accused of sacrilege for suggesting that the annual Bayreuth...
us confidential
A quick glance at a list of forthcoming Hollywood movies provokes a deep feeling of déjà vu. We have, quite literally, seen these films before. Channing Tatum is planning a remake of the 1990 film Ghost, with the actor hoping to take on the...A quick glance at a list of forthcoming Hollywood movies provokes a deep feeling of déjà vu. We...A quick glance at a list of forthcoming Hollywood movies provokes a deep feeling of déjà vu. We...
Philip Jansen in talks with private equity as FTSE 100 pest control giant struggles to deliver benefits in takeover of American rival
updatedThe former boss of BT is working on a secret private equity-backed takeover bid for the FTSE 100 pest control empire Rentokil Initial, The Sunday Times can reveal. Philip Jansen is in talks with private equity firms over a plan that would see him installed as executive chairman of the faltering...The former boss of BT is working on a secret private equity-backed takeover bid for the FTSE 100 pest control empire Rentokil Initial, The Sunday Times can reveal. Philip Jansen is in talks with private equity firms over a plan that would see him installed as executive chairman of the faltering...The former boss of BT is working on a secret private equity-backed takeover bid for the FTSE 100 pest control empire Rentokil...
The private equity owner of Evelyn Partners, one of Britain’s largest wealth management companies, is exploring options to sell down its £1.5 billion stake. Permira is sounding out advisers to sell its majority stake in the business, whose activities also cover professional services from auditing and tax advice to insolvency, as it looks to...The private equity owner of Evelyn Partners, one of Britain’s largest wealth management companies, is exploring options to sell down its £1.5 billion stake. Permira is sounding out advisers to sell its majority stake in the business, whose activities also cover professional services from auditing and tax advice to insolvency, as it looks to...The private equity owner of Evelyn Partners, one of Britain’s largest wealth management companies, is exploring options to sell...
Clive Schlee, who turned Pret A Manger into a household name during his 16-year reign to 2019, had a simple rule on promotions and price cuts: never discount anything. If you drop your prices, you sell short the value of your product. Current Pret chief executive, Pano Christou, took little time riding roughshod...Clive Schlee, who turned Pret A Manger into a household name during his 16-year reign to 2019...Clive Schlee, who turned Pret A Manger into a household name during his 16-year reign to 2019...
the sunday times business profile
dominic o’connell
There was nothing quite as cringeworthy as the Conservatives’ desire to stick “Great British” in front of every new...There was nothing quite as cringeworthy as the Conservatives’ desire to stick “Great British” in...There was nothing quite as cringeworthy as the Conservatives’ desire to stick “Great British” in...
market report
The City and the London stock market could not escape the shockwaves from a global technology outage that paralysed...The City and the London stock market could not escape the shockwaves from a global technology...The City and the London stock market could not escape the shockwaves from a global technology...
comment
After almost 20 years building my business, I finally have time on my hands. Time to meet all those friends for...After almost 20 years building my business, I finally have time on my hands. Time to meet all...After almost 20 years building my business, I finally have time on my hands. Time to meet all...
Sustainability
The number of large companies prioritising sustainability goals has fallen to its lowest level in four years, a study...The number of large companies prioritising sustainability goals has fallen to its lowest level in...The number of large companies prioritising sustainability goals has fallen to its lowest level in...
RECRUITMENT
The new Labour government has pledged to recruit 6,500 expert teachers in “key subjects to set children up for life, work and the future”, promising £350 million in funding to achieve the aim. While shortages of physics, computing and languages teachers have been well documented, it is religious education that is facing the biggest skills gap. Despite RE being...The new Labour government has pledged to recruit 6,500 expert teachers in “key subjects to set...The new Labour government has pledged to recruit 6,500 expert teachers in “key subjects to set...
six from the best
As Deutsche Bank learning and development manager, Andy Ward focuses on technology and engineering training. However...As Deutsche Bank learning and development manager, Andy Ward focuses on technology and engineering training. However, following lived experience of mental ill health, he set about transforming how mental health is supported and is now a non-executive director at MHFA England and the founding chairman of the...As Deutsche Bank learning and development manager, Andy Ward focuses on technology and engineering training. However, following...
The Open | Rick Broadbent
Halfway through a third round that started in becalmed conditions and ended in relentless rain, Dan Brown turned away from the crowd and took out a cigarette. Not the most orthodox of major challengers, the world No 272 and son of a pig farmer has lit up this Open despite a stumble to the line. If it ends up being a case of close but no cigar, a dose of romance and a...Halfway through a third round that started in becalmed conditions and ended in relentless rain...Halfway through a third round that started in becalmed conditions and ended in relentless rain...
Simon Wilde
Trent Bridge has seen some dramatic Test cricket in recent times — this was the place where “Bazball” took off when...Trent Bridge has seen some dramatic Test cricket in recent times — this was the place where “Bazball” took off when Jonny Bairstow spearheaded an extraordinary run chase two years ago — and this match promises more of the same. Ben Stokes doesn’t do draws but on a pitch that has yielded more than 350 runs on each...Trent Bridge has seen some dramatic Test cricket in recent times — this was the place where “Bazball” took off when Jonny...
DAVID WALSH
The statement announcing the end was typical. Well written (because he actually wrote it) and classy. It was generous...The statement announcing the end was typical. Well written (because he actually wrote it) and...The statement announcing the end was typical. Well written (because he actually wrote it) and...
SIMON HUGHES
It was here at Trent Bridge two years ago where Bazball was born. Jonny Bairstow led the assault. After England had...It was here at Trent Bridge two years ago where Bazball was born. Jonny Bairstow led the assault.It was here at Trent Bridge two years ago where Bazball was born. Jonny Bairstow led the assault.
The OPen | Stuart Fraser
video
Georgie Brayshaw interview | Rick Broadbent
This is a story about pain, the joy of it and how it can inspire. It involves disaster, triumph, a horse and nine days in a coma. From being paralysed to Paris, Georgie Brayshaw has already won. “You know if you’re in pain you’re giving your absolute all,” says the world champion rower in her bouncy Yorkshire accent. “That’s what you want out of this sport. You want to...This is a story about pain, the joy of it and how it can inspire. It involves disaster, triumph...This is a story about pain, the joy of it and how it can inspire. It involves disaster, triumph...
Clive Lloyd interview
During the first Test at Lord’s, there was a touching scene in the museum behind the pavilion when the two most...During the first Test at Lord’s, there was a touching scene in the museum behind the pavilion when the two most successful captains West Indies have ever had, Clive Lloyd and Viv Richards, were reunited with the Prudential World Cup trophy they helped win there in 1975 and 1979. Lloyd scored a hundred in the first...During the first Test at Lord’s, there was a touching scene in the museum behind the pavilion when the two most successful...
HUNGARIAN GRAND PRIX
On Friday Christian Horner, Red Bull’s team principal, described Sergio Pérez as being in a “bit of a head spin” after his recent poor form. By Saturday the Mexican was in a literal one, crashing into the barrier at turn 8 in a disastrous first...On Friday Christian Horner, Red Bull’s team principal, described Sergio Pérez as being in a “bit...On Friday Christian Horner, Red Bull’s team principal, described Sergio Pérez as being in a “bit...
martyn ziegler | sport notebook
olympics | OWEN SLOT
That place in your head that you have. You know, that you have, that I have, that we all have, that we know about and...That place in your head that you have. You know, that you have, that I have, that we all have...That place in your head that you have. You know, that you have, that I have, that we all have...
the tailender | patrick kidd
Eight hundredths of a second is not very long. Faster than the blink of an eye or the time it takes me to say yes to...Eight hundredths of a second is not very long. Faster than the blink of an eye or the time it...Eight hundredths of a second is not very long. Faster than the blink of an eye or the time it...
olympics
Welcome to The Times’s daily guide to the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. As athletes from all over the world travel to the French capital to compete in more than 300 events, we take you through the best of the action, with Team GB hoping for a...Welcome to The Times’s daily guide to the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. As athletes from all over...Welcome to The Times’s daily guide to the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. As athletes from all over...
Millions could be better off in retirement as the government makes it easier to collate small savings pots
holly mead
It’s not unreasonable to fear a house price collapse, but there is a balance to be struck
Average fees are lower in the US, but there are ways to cut your costs even on this side of the Pond
Higher services inflation is bad news for homeowners hoping for a cheaper deal
holly thomas
The big firms known as the Eurostars are giving the American Magnificent 7 a run for their money
First person
The Times columnist has spent 36 years writing about politics. Regrets? Not many
interview
It took years for the police to take John seriously and he still feels under siege
interview
She was hailed as Britain’s most successful female Olympian. But no one knew about Laura Kenny’s private turmoil
At Remedy Place in New York, you won’t find cocktails on the menu. Instead there are cold plunges, intravenous infusions and lymphatic drainage
interview
Stephanie Jory’s father sent her to private schools. He was also a prolific counterfeiter
About nine years ago, when I was working for Tatler magazine, I attended a meeting of a support network for people who had accidentally inherited a castle. It took place at Aynhoe Park in Oxfordshire, which in those days was noted for its...About nine years ago, when I was working for Tatler magazine, I attended a meeting of a support...About nine years ago, when I was working for Tatler magazine, I attended a meeting of a support...
what i’ve learnt
From salads and coleslaw to no-churn ice cream
We all have recipes we return to time and again, the banker dishes that we can whip up in no time when we have hungry mouths to feed. Here are six of our favourites that we make throughout summer. From a zingy coleslaw that restores our faith in a much maligned salad to sumac trout skewers for the barbecue, just add sunshine for easy outdoor entertaining. Serves 4-5...We all have recipes we return to time and again, the banker dishes that we can whip up in no time...We all have recipes we return to time and again, the banker dishes that we can whip up in no time...
beta male
It’s not as if I usually go about being all cocky, yet this past week gave me cause to feel even more ashamed of...It’s not as if I usually go about being all cocky, yet this past week gave me cause to feel even more ashamed of myself than usual. Stung by a benignly uncontroversial remark my wife made to our son, reported by him to me, I challenged the lad to an arm-wrestle. And won, which makes my behaviour worse. If Sam had...It’s not as if I usually go about being all cocky, yet this past week gave me cause to feel even more ashamed of myself than...
They have Monet and Bardot. We have Shakespeare and the Beatles. Our experts decide who triumphs in the artistic battle for medals, from film to music and more
HUGO RIFKIND
Anthony Hopkins’s real rival in Those About to Die is a spectacular ancient Rome brought to life by special effects
interview
The hit sitcom and Baby Reindeer both started on the Edinburgh Fringe. Anya Ryan meets the woman behind them
Review | HISTORY
It’s no secret that JFK and his male relatives were unfaithful to their wives. What does this prurient book add?
REVIEW | HEALTH
Lifespans have increased enormously in the last century. We need to rethink late life care
VIEWING GUIDE
For full TV listings for the week, see our comprehensive TV guide Piglets
ITV1, 9.30pm
ITV scripted comedy has long been considered something of a TV industry joke and not in a good way. It is risky and expensive and historically the commercial broadcaster has tended to commit to the genre half-heartedly (for perhaps understandable reasons). Still, there is much...For full TV listings for the week, see our comprehensive TV guide Piglets
ITV1, 9.30pm
ITV...For full TV listings for the week, see our comprehensive TV guide Piglets
ITV1, 9.30pm
ITV...
There’s never been a better time to be an armchair cinema fan with more ways to watch movies across TV channels...There’s never been a better time to be an armchair cinema fan with more ways to watch movies across TV channels, streaming services and digital downloads than ever before. But sometimes there can be too much choice, and that’s why our experts have hand-picked the very best films to watch each day. Every week we’ll...There’s never been a better time to be an armchair cinema fan with more ways to watch movies across TV channels, streaming...
review | history
Hydrography, the art of making sea charts, was crucial to Britain’s 19th-century naval might
review | SCIENCE
They were long dismissed as cosmic irrelevances but now hold the key to understanding our world
REVIEW
Plus: Colson Whitehead’s follow-up to Harlem Shuffle, everything you ever wanted to know about Burton and Taylor, and a Tessa Hadley short story collection
review | fiction
This time-hopping meta-fiction has the madcap energy of a Philip K Dick story
children’s book of the week
This old-fashioned Cornish adventure by the Ballet Shoes author leaves Enid Blyton in the dust
Rereading
One hundred years ago last month, EM Forster released his final novel, A Passage to India. He lived another 46 years, but published no more fiction. It was an extraordinary act of self-silencing from one of the greatest and most...One hundred years ago last month, EM Forster released his final novel, A Passage to India.One hundred years ago last month, EM Forster released his final novel, A Passage to India.
PROMS 2024
Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony is a journey from turmoil to triumph. And so too, on a rather more mundane level, is the BBC management’s changing attitude to classical music. Little more than a year ago some big cuts to its ensembles were planned.Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony is a journey from turmoil to triumph. And so too, on a rather more...Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony is a journey from turmoil to triumph. And so too, on a rather more...
FIRST NIGHT REVIEW
FIRST NIGHT REVIEW
FIRST NIGHT Review
FIRST NIGHT REVIEW
television
interview
In hindsight it wasn’t a great idea for me to kick off an interview with David Duchovny by suggesting that he was a musical dilettante. You’re most likely to know Duchovny, of course, as Fox Mulder, the conspiracy-theory-guzzling FBI agent in The...In hindsight it wasn’t a great idea for me to kick off an interview with David Duchovny by...In hindsight it wasn’t a great idea for me to kick off an interview with David Duchovny by...
Fiona Lambert transformed her physique with a few simple changes. This is her ultimate guide for gym beginners, complete with a 20-minute workout
The Times film critic had never ridden before, but a ranching holiday in a remote corner of Canada helped him to deal with a painful loss
It’s not just cutting back on salt that makes a difference, nutrition experts tell Peta Bee
interview
The TV presenter talks to Claire Cohen about her campaign to improve air travel for disabled people
INTERVIEW
The burlesque artist talks to Julia Llewllyn Smith about her enduring career, working with Taylor Swift and why she’ll never marry again
Whether you’re heading to the sea to swim, surf or sunbathe, this list of local, independent places to eat and drink around the coastlines of England, Scotland and Wales will keep you well fed. From an estuary bistro at the edge of the Lakes to...Whether you’re heading to the sea to swim, surf or sunbathe, this list of local, independent...Whether you’re heading to the sea to swim, surf or sunbathe, this list of local, independent...
jane macquitty
sex counsel
From hardy palms to ginger lilies, these tropical plants will create a lush, jungle feel
Back in the Nineties, I planted a wide range of exotics in gardens all over London and the home counties. My clients and I loved that popular, jungly look with hardy palms, bananas, bamboos and tree ferns combining alongside spicy coloured flowers to instantly transport us to sunnier climes — ideal for a staycation. For some it was an “instant gardening” approach...Back in the Nineties, I planted a wide range of exotics in gardens all over London and the home...Back in the Nineties, I planted a wide range of exotics in gardens all over London and the home...
stephen anderton
It’s a rare garden that doesn’t have any geraniums. I wouldn’t necessarily say I’m a geranium man, and yet when I...It’s a rare garden that doesn’t have any geraniums. I wouldn’t necessarily say I’m a geranium man, and yet when I count them up I have quite a few. I don’t have a greenhouse and I don’t honour them with a spot inside the house to keep them going over the winter, so they have to be pretty tough, surviving almost bone...It’s a rare garden that doesn’t have any geraniums. I wouldn’t necessarily say I’m a geranium man, and yet when I count them up...
Lifting boulders and climbing trees are part of the neolithic-style activities at this Italian island fortress where your gym is nature, and your base modern-day luxe
video
Tokyo’s culture of cuteness, futuristic attractions and themed hotel rooms make the Japanese capital one of the world’s most exciting places to visit as a family
Further flight delays and cancellations are expected as Microsoft IT disruption continues into the weekend — here’s what you need to know if you’re travelling
If you haven’t booked a summer break yet, it’s not too late. Our expert has the best family options, from hiking in the Alps to a luxurious hotel stay in Menorca
Planning a visit to these five picturebook-pretty Italian villages? Here are the best places to stay after a day of exploring
video
Welcome to the 16th edition of the Times and Sunday Times Best UK Beaches guide — still the only gazetteer of the British and Northern Irish coasts in which every stretch of sand, shingle and rock has been personally inspected this year. The 2024...Welcome to the 16th edition of the Times and Sunday Times Best UK Beaches guide — still the only...Welcome to the 16th edition of the Times and Sunday Times Best UK Beaches guide — still the only...
video
What have the Victorians ever done for us? Well, along with those familiar things like inventing the telephone, giving us the theory of evolution and expanding the railways, they were also responsible for the creation of the obituary as a distinct...What have the Victorians ever done for us? Well, along with those familiar things like inventing...What have the Victorians ever done for us? Well, along with those familiar things like inventing...
YOU were at one time spiritually dead because of your sins and because you were Gentiles without the Law. But God has...YOU were at one time spiritually dead because of your sins and because you were Gentiles without...YOU were at one time spiritually dead because of your sins and because you were Gentiles without...
St James’s Palace
19th July, 2024
The Princess Royal this morning opened Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust’s...St James’s Palace
19th July, 2024
The Princess Royal this morning opened Worcestershire...St James’s Palace
19th July, 2024
The Princess Royal this morning opened Worcestershire...
MindGames
1 Pilot officer is the lowest commissioned rank in which of the three UK armed forces? 2 In 1967, which US fashion designer launched a neckwear line under the name Polo? 3 Toad Triumphant (1995) by William Horwood is a sequel to which 1908 novel...1 Pilot officer is the lowest commissioned rank in which of the three UK armed forces? 2 In 1967...1 Pilot officer is the lowest commissioned rank in which of the three UK armed forces? 2 In 1967...
Sara Garnett and James Maguire
readers’ lives
video
The Times has been publishing life stories of the great and the good (and the not so good) for more than 170 years. Now the obituary is also becoming a podcast, explains Anna Temkin
Labour’s general election message was simple and, as it transpired, persuasive: don’t just send a message to Westminster, send a government. Time and time again Anas Sarwar, leader of the party’s Scottish branch, stressed that Scottish voters could — and should — elect MPs who could make a...Labour’s general election message was simple and, as it transpired, persuasive: don’t just send a message to Westminster, send a government. Time and time again Anas Sarwar, leader of the party’s Scottish branch, stressed that Scottish voters could — and should — elect MPs who could make a...Labour’s general election message was simple and, as it transpired, persuasive: don’t just send a message to Westminster, send...
Scottish schoolchildren risk being denied the chance to study maths, Gaelic or business as severe teacher shortages put limits on timetable choices, according to a government report into the state of education. Too many pupils are not experiencing the full range of subjects and experiences they are entitled to under the Curriculum for...Scottish schoolchildren risk being denied the chance to study maths, Gaelic or business as severe teacher shortages put limits on timetable choices, according to a government report into the state of education. Too many pupils are not experiencing the full range of subjects and experiences they are entitled to under the Curriculum for...Scottish schoolchildren risk being denied the chance to study maths, Gaelic or business as severe teacher shortages put limits...
Michael Grant
This was the sort of day when the Rangers manager hot-footed it out of the place at full-time to attend a wedding rather than his customary post-match media obligations. It was a game in Scotland where Manchester United were the home team, with their badge filling the centre-circle before kick-off and Rangers not...This was the sort of day when the Rangers manager hot-footed it out of the place at full-time to...This was the sort of day when the Rangers manager hot-footed it out of the place at full-time to...
in depth
The area covered by Highland council has the worst public services in Scotland, while East Renfrewshire has the best, according to new Sunday Times analysis which exposes huge variations in performance by local authorities, health boards and police across the country. Some councils recycle twice as much rubbish as others, while cancer patients in parts of Scotland are...The area covered by Highland council has the worst public services in Scotland, while East...The area covered by Highland council has the worst public services in Scotland, while East...
Lesley Christie is having her lunch break on a bench emblazoned with the phrase “I love Clarkston” when I tell her...Lesley Christie is having her lunch break on a bench emblazoned with the phrase “I love Clarkston” when I tell her that the council, East Renfrewshire, has been named the best in Scotland. Her facial expression changes, suggesting her love of the local authority may not be strong. “It’s a nice place to live,” she says.Lesley Christie is having her lunch break on a bench emblazoned with the phrase “I love Clarkston” when I tell her that the...
A theatre in Edinburgh has come under fire for hosting a comedian who supported the Baillie Gifford boycott — after...A theatre in Edinburgh has come under fire for hosting a comedian who supported the Baillie...A theatre in Edinburgh has come under fire for hosting a comedian who supported the Baillie...
Gregor Townsend believes the intensity of Scotland’s month-long summer tour of the Americas is proving to be a hugely...Gregor Townsend believes the intensity of Scotland’s month-long summer tour of the Americas is...Gregor Townsend believes the intensity of Scotland’s month-long summer tour of the Americas is...
St Andrews may draw the crowds but Crail, just ten miles down the coast, has cinematic beauty, great independent shops and wonderful walks. David McCann and his family check it out
Q&A
The Scottish novelist on his first interaction with an audience, Guinness pints before 7am and the joy of Morganti’s ice cream shop
Review
Nestled in the heart of New Town, Thamel brings Scotland a true taste of traditional Nepal with a touch of modern flair
Plus, Teenage Fanclub, the best of Bute, mind-blowing bubbles and Nigerian art in Edinburgh
GABRIELLA BENNETT
I don’t want an app to plan my garden or write the novels I read. It’s important to keep the human touch
Edinburgh Festival
The in-demand comedian and actress talks about her new character-led performance
edinburgh festival
Plus: a different way to open the International Festival and the best film and dance premieres
EDINBURGH FESTIVAL
The comedian on their new show, Woof!, how their life changed after the controversial show Nanette aired, and why they can’t stop thinking about whales
EDINBURGH FESTIVAL
Yilong Liu on his tender new play and the importance of comfort food — something of a theme this year
Edinburgh Festival
The Ghanaian sculptor on his connection with Scotland and the prospect of his first exhibition in its ‘greatest city’
Criss-crossed by car-free tracks and quiet country lanes, Scotland is packed with stunning cycle routes. From easy coastal loops and gentle city trundles to all-day epics and trips through brooding glens, here is your definitive list of the best...Criss-crossed by car-free tracks and quiet country lanes, Scotland is packed with stunning cycle...Criss-crossed by car-free tracks and quiet country lanes, Scotland is packed with stunning cycle...
Comment
Every decision on defence is going to hurt
Max Hastings
In the era of Trump, Keir Starmer’s government faces four huge security challenges — and only tough choices
janice turner
Teen voters could kick Labour in the ballot box
giles coren
I’ll give treatonomics a Swift swerve, thanks
Ann Treneman | Notebook
Adventures in Tin Town reveal past is long gone
Matt Chorley
Truss dooms herself as the golden gift to Labour that keeps on giving
Dominic Sandbrook
No wonder circus is finally coming home
weekend Essay
Putin is already at war with Nato – and it’ll soon get worse
ROse Wild | Feedback
This word for wonky comes with a warning
There’s a term of abuse that has started appearing in our pages with increasing frequency. We’ve used it recently to...There’s a term of abuse that has started appearing in our pages with increasing frequency. We’ve...There’s a term of abuse that has started appearing in our pages with increasing frequency. We’ve...
John Lewis-Stempel | Nature Notebook
The pale red flower that knows when rain is near
Charles II drolly described the English summer as “three fine days and a thunderstorm”. If you have no great faith in...Charles II drolly described the English summer as “three fine days and a thunderstorm”. If you...Charles II drolly described the English summer as “three fine days and a thunderstorm”. If you...
Leading Articles
Big State Britain
Though Labour has abandoned utopian plans for socialist transformation, the new government still places unreasonable faith in interventions
Show Trial
The conviction of the journalist Evan Gershkovich makes a mockery of justice
Just Stop Offending
Arrogant environmental activists deserve the harsh sentences they received
letters to the editor
Ensuring the lessons of Covid-19 are learnt
Sir, Your leading article (“Be Prepared”, Jul 19) is right to welcome the recommendations from Baroness Hallett’s report on Covid preparedness. Her ten-point plan is a good framework for addressing the shortcomings exposed during the...Sir, Your leading article (“Be Prepared”, Jul 19) is right to welcome the recommendations...Sir, Your leading article (“Be Prepared”, Jul 19) is right to welcome the recommendations...
Daily Universal Register
Briefing
UK: Methodist Church holds its annual conference in Leeds.
Cyprus: Northern Cyprus celebrates Peace and Freedom Day on the anniversary of the Turkish invasion in 1974.
France: Executive board of the International Olympic Committee meets and holds a press conference ahead of the Games in Paris.
Malaysia: Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar is crowned the 17th king at the Istana Negara in Kuala Lumpur.
On this day
Today
In 1944 the German army officer Claus Schenk Graf von Stauffenberg attempted to assassinate Adolf Hitler at the “Wolf’s Lair” military headquarters during the Second World War. Hitler was slightly wounded by a briefcase bomb. Stauffenberg was executed by firing squad the next day, aged 36. Berthold, his older brother and co-conspirator, was tried and executed on August 10, 1944 — by repeatedly being strangled and then revived, and then hanged, all filmed for Hitler; in 1969 the Apollo 11 “Eagle” module made the first lunar landing, with Nasa astronaut Neil Armstrong radioing to mission control “Houston, Tranquility Base here. The Eagle has landed”; in 1973 Bruce Lee, the martial artist and film star, died in Hong Kong, aged 32. British pathologist Donald Teare concluded that the cause of death was “death by misadventure”, with cerebral edema the result of painkiller medication; in 2017 Sir Vince Cable became leader of the Liberal Democrats, succeeding Tim Farron who had resigned a month earlier.
Tomorrow
In 1864, the first of eight letters was published in The Times signed A Bee-Master. Subsequently a book titled Bee-keeping, by The Times Bee-Master, was published and reviewed in The Times on January 10, 1865. The book was written in response to the volume of correspondence received after publication of the initial letter. The author was the Rev John Cumming; in 1904 the Trans-Siberian Railway section connecting Moscow and Vladivostok was completed after 13 years; in 1969 Neil Armstrong (obituary, August 26, 2012) became the first person to set foot on the moon, at 02.56 Universal Time (GMT). He told a global TV audience: “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” He was then joined by Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin; in 1994 Tony Blair became leader of the Labour Party, after the sudden death of the incumbent leader, John Smith;
Nature notes
When the sun came out, the brimming Liverpool dock was seen to be full of water weed. It was spiked water-milfoil and in the bright light the submerged feathery fronds shone an emerald green. Like all native aquatic weeds, the presence of spiked water-milfoil is not only highly attractive, but reassuring: it fosters biodiversity and helps reduce pollution. Rooted on the bed of slow moving water such as canals, lakes, sluggish rivers, ditches, ponds and even docks, the plant can grow up to 3m long. Its tiny red flowers grow on the small spikes that lift a few centimetres above the surface. The water in this particular Liverpool dock is slightly salty. Spiked water-milfoil can survive in such brackish environments. Jonathan Tulloch
Jonathan Tulloch
Birthdays
Today
Stéphane Bancel, chief executive, Moderna, 52; Andrew Bell, chief executive, Witan Investment Trust, 69; Nicola Benedetti, classical violinist, director of the Edinburgh International Festival, 37; Gisele Bündchen, supermodel, 44; Paul Cook, drummer, the Sex Pistols, 68; Desmond Douglas, 11-time English table-tennis champion, 69; Ellie Downie, artistic gymnast, all-around gold winner, European Championships (2017), 25; Dame Sylvia Heal, former Labour Party MP (1990-92, 1997-2010), 82; Sir Edward Leigh, Conservative MP for Gainsborough (since 1983), Father of the House of Commons, 74; John Lodge, bass guitarist and singer, the Moody Blues, Nights in White Satin (1967), 81; Charlie Magri, former flyweight boxer and winner of the WBC, European and British titles, 68; Sandra Oh, actress, Killing Eve (2018-22), 53; Bruce Parker, broadcaster, co-presented the pilot episode of Antiques Roadshow (1977), 83; Lord (Peter) Palumbo, property developer, chairman, Arts Council (1989-94), 89; Jeff Rawle, actor, Drop the Dead Donkey (1990-98, 2008), 73; Julian Rhind-Tutt, actor, Britannia (2017-21), 57; Carlos Santana, guitarist and rock musician, 77; Makoto Uchida, president and chief executive, Nissan Motor Corporation, 58.
Tomorrow
Lord (Victor) Adebowale, chairman, NHS Confederation, 62; Heather Angel, wildlife photographer, 83; Paul Casey, golfer, 47; Michael Connelly, writer, the Harry Bosch series, 68; Wendy Cope, poet, 79; Michel de Carvalho, financier, chairman, CapGen, and three-time Olympian, 80; Paloma Faith, singer, 43; Charlotte Gainsbourg, actress, 53; Richard Gillingwater, chairman, Janus Henderson (2013-22), SSE (2015-21), 68; Yusuf Islam (Cat Stevens), singer-songwriter, 76; Richard Johnson, jockey, four-time British Champion Jump Jockey (2016-19), 47; Ross Kemp, actor, EastEnders (1990-2006, 2016), and TV presenter, 60; Baroness (Susan) Kramer, Lib Dem MP for Richmond Park (2005-10), minister for transport (2013-15), 74; Josef Lewkowicz, survivor of six concentration camps who became a Nazi hunter, 99; John Lowe, darts player, world champion (1979, 1987, 1993), 79; John Neill, executive chairman, Unipart Group, 77; Julian Pettifer, broadcaster, presenter, Panorama (1969-75), 89; Simon Reeve, author and TV presenter, Wilderness with Simon Reeve (2024), 52; Jason Roy, cricketer, Surrey and England, 34; Nikolay Storonsky, co-founder and chief executive, Revolut, 40; Garry Trudeau, cartoonist, 76; Alex Whitehouse, chief executive, Premier Foods, 55; Sir Ian Wood, businessman, former chairman and chief executive, John Wood Group, 82.