UK households looking to purchase blueberries, strawberries, or blackberries this summer can expect an impressive harvest. Thanks to the warmest spring on record, blueberry yields are projected to increase by nearly 25 percent this year. By the end of August, approximately 5,133 tonnes of blueberries will have been harvested, compared to 4,187 tonnes at the same time last year.

Fruit experts and grocery analysts indicate that sales of blueberries have also risen, showing a nine percent year-on-year increase, according to data from BirminghamLive. Daniel Martin, Group Commercial Director at SandA Produce, described the blueberry season as having a “really positive early start.” He noted that the season is about two weeks ahead of schedule, attributing this to strong light levels and minimal rainfall. “As a result, we’re seeing excellent fruit size and nice, even ripening across the crop,” he stated. Martin expressed optimism about the season, expecting excellent flavour and shelf life from this year’s crop.

Berry Crops Flourish Across the UK

The positive news extends beyond blueberries. Jim Floor, Managing Director of Hall Hunter, one of the UK’s leading blueberry growers, highlighted the progress made in robotic fruit picking, though he cautioned that the technology is not yet ready for widespread commercial use. Meanwhile, Nick Marston, Chair of the industry body British Berry Growers, reported that all UK berry crops, including strawberries and raspberries, have seen an increase of about 25 percent. “The weather has been very beneficial for all berry crops,” he remarked.

This optimistic outlook aligns with earlier reports indicating that strawberries at major retailers such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and M&S were expected to yield exceptionally large quantities. Bartosz Pinkosz from the Summer Berry Company, which supplies fruit to various supermarkets, previously noted that his West Sussex farm is producing berries so large they “cannot fit in your mouth.” In a statement to The Guardian two months ago, he mentioned, “I have genuinely never seen a harvest produce such large berries consistently. Some are supersized – growing to the size of plums or even kiwi fruits.”

With the summer season in full swing, consumers can look forward to bountiful berry selections at their local supermarkets, thanks to the favorable weather conditions and advancements in agricultural practices.

Businesses in France are facing a critical challenge as the digital landscape evolves. Strong cybersecurity is no longer merely a technical necessity; it has become a fundamental business imperative. Investing in a robust IT security service can safeguard your data, reputation, and operational continuity, regardless of whether you manage a small enterprise or a multinational corporation.

The Cybersecurity Landscape in France

As France solidifies its position in the European digital economy, it simultaneously becomes more vulnerable to cyber threats. Recent years have seen a concerning rise in ransomware attacks, phishing schemes, and insider data breaches impacting various sectors, including finance, healthcare, manufacturing, and hospitality. According to the French National Cybersecurity Agency (ANSSI), small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are particularly at risk, as they often lack the internal resources to adequately respond to cyber incidents.

The message for business owners is clear: without effective cybersecurity measures, the likelihood of a cyber incident increases significantly.

Benefits of Professional IT Security Services

Partnering with a specialized IT security service in France offers numerous advantages that extend beyond basic antivirus installations. A reputable provider crafts a layered security strategy tailored to your unique business environment. Key offerings typically include:

– 24/7 threat monitoring and response
– Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing
– Advanced firewall and intrusion detection systems
– Data encryption and secure backup solutions
– Security awareness training for employees

By proactively managing your digital infrastructure, you can mitigate risks before they escalate into costly disruptions. More importantly, you gain peace of mind knowing that a dedicated team is consistently monitoring your systems.

While having strong security systems in place is crucial, it is equally important to have reliable IT support in France. Technology and threats are constantly evolving, making responsive local support essential. A provider familiar with local regulations, such as GDPR compliance and industry-specific standards, not only offers technical expertise but also strategic guidance. This leads to reduced risks, improved system performance, and enhanced productivity.

Cybersecurity should not function in isolation. It is most effective when integrated with a broader IT management strategy. A fragmented approach can result in gaps in coverage or redundant tools, leading to a false sense of security. A comprehensive IT management plan aligns security needs with business objectives, integrating hardware, software, cloud services, and user policies into a cohesive strategy. This integration can streamline operations, reduce costs, and ensure that your security measures evolve alongside your business.

In conclusion, businesses operating in France must prioritize IT security as cyber threats become increasingly sophisticated. Whether you are protecting sensitive customer data, safeguarding proprietary technology, or ensuring operational continuity, the right IT partner can make a significant difference. If your organization is ready to proactively address cyber risks and invest in secure infrastructure, consider reaching out to CoverMe, experts in delivering tailored IT security services for modern French businesses.

Shauntelle Went, an 18-year-old mother of two, has been charged with procuring underage girls for sex in a case linked to the tragic suicide of a prominent banker, Christopher James McCann. The allegations implicate Went in a disturbing incident that has raised significant concerns about the safety and welfare of minors.

According to reports from the Courier Mail, Went is accused of facilitating sexual encounters between McCann, aged 50 and the head of health and social infrastructure at Commonwealth Bank, and two girls aged 14 and 15. The encounters allegedly took place in McCann’s hotel room in Brisbane on May 14, 2025. One of the girls was reportedly living in a residential care home supervised by the Department of Child Safety at the time.

Details of the Allegations

Both Went and McCann have been charged with using electronic communication to procure a child under 16 for a sexual act, an offense that carries a maximum penalty of ten years in prison. Police allege that Went communicated with McCann regarding the arrangement, and while she waited in the hotel foyer, the girls went up to his room. Shortly after, McCann requested that the girls leave.

Following his arrest, McCann was released on bail but was found dead two days later at a location in Springbrook National Park. His death has drawn attention to the pressures faced by individuals involved in high-profile roles, particularly in light of serious legal accusations.

Shauntelle Went’s Background

Went’s life has been marked by trauma and hardship, which may have contributed to her current situation. She became a mother for the first time in 2021 at the age of 14. Her second child was born two years later. Tragically, her younger brother, Aiden Braumann, drowned in April 2021 at the age of 13, an event that profoundly affected her family. Went has publicly expressed her struggles with grief and her attempts to change her life for the better.

Despite her circumstances, Went has been open about her work as a sex worker, which she reportedly began at a young age. She has acknowledged her past mistakes and has stated her desire to improve her life for the sake of her children and family. In a social media post, she noted, “I know that I’ve made bad decisions in the past. But from now on I’m going to be doing whatever I need to do to change.”

In recent weeks, Went has faced significant backlash on social media, particularly after the nature of her charges became public. She has responded defiantly, stating that she earned $16,000 in just two days through her content on the adult platform OnlyFans. This has led to further scrutiny regarding her lifestyle choices and the decisions that have led her to this point.

Went is currently under bail conditions requiring her to reside in Brassall, near Ipswich, and is due back in court on August 4, 2025. The case raises essential questions about the exploitation of vulnerable individuals and the systemic issues surrounding child protection.

If you or someone you know needs confidential support, contact Lifeline at 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue at 1300 22 4636.

The landscape of Wigan’s social clubs is shifting dramatically as many traditional working men’s clubs face closure. Once vibrant community hubs, these establishments have struggled to adapt to changing social habits and economic pressures. With only a few remaining, such as the Stubshaw Cross Community and Sports Club, efforts to preserve this cultural heritage are underway.

Historically, working men’s clubs emerged in the late 1800s, arising from the industrial boom that united working-class men. Governed by their members, these clubs were founded on principles of mutual aid and solidarity. By the early 1900s, they had become integral to community life, providing a space for social interaction, entertainment, and support. The Club and Institute Union (CIU) played a significant role in connecting these clubs nationwide, ensuring that members received affordable drinks and a sense of belonging.

At their peak during the 1950s and 60s, venues across Wigan hosted lively events, from darts matches to live music performances. “They were packed every weekend. Families came. There were no drunks, no riff-raff. Just people out for the night,” recalls local performer Susan Barrow, who entertained crowds with her music. These clubs were more than just places to drink; they were a celebration of working-class culture and identity.

However, economic decline and changing lifestyles began to take their toll from the 1990s onward. The rise of supermarkets selling inexpensive alcohol contributed to the decline of many clubs. Furthermore, the 2007 smoking ban significantly impacted revenues, as many former patrons chose to drink at home rather than in smoke-free environments. Today, well-known institutions such as Lower Ince Labour Club, Gidlow Labour Club, and Beech Hill Labour Club have all closed their doors, marking a poignant loss for the community.

Among the few clubs still thriving is Stubshaw Cross Community and Sports Club, managed by Adam Arstall, who took over in 2018. Since then, he has focused on transforming the club into a welcoming space that retains its community spirit. “None of this would have been done without the hard work of our club president Martin Knowles and the bar staff team,” notes Arstall, highlighting the collective effort involved in revitalising the club.

The club has diversified its offerings to attract a wider audience, hosting events such as salsa classes, acting lessons, and themed nights. Recently, around 80 local school pupils participated in a pizza-making event, illustrating the club’s commitment to community engagement. Every Thursday, bird auctions draw in more than 100 attendees, showcasing the club’s role as a community hub.

Stubshaw Cross serves as a venue for various gatherings, from christenings to weddings and wakes. It also sponsors local sports teams, emphasising its role in promoting community connection through activities like football and darts. “People can be put off by memberships and feel intimidated,” Arstall admits. “But while members do get rewards, everyone is so welcoming here; you don’t have to be a member to feel part of the community.”

Despite these successes, challenges remain. Rising energy costs and the age of the building complicate the financial landscape for clubs like Stubshaw Cross. Arstall acknowledges the difficulties: “The size and age of the building, prices of energy, the cost of products… it can be hard to turn a profit.” Live sports events remain a key draw, yet the high fees for broadcasting services such as Sky Sports can be burdensome for smaller venues.

To address these challenges, Stubshaw Cross has embraced innovation. The club recently acquired a large, cinema-style television for its function room, allowing it to host large gatherings for significant sporting events. “We can get up to 300 people in for World Cups and big rugby games,” Arstall states, proving that adaptability is key to survival.

Wigan’s remaining working men’s clubs, like Stubshaw Cross, continue to play an essential role in the community. They provide more than just entertainment; they foster connections among families, friends, and neighbours. As the landscape of social clubs changes, the commitment of dedicated staff and the support of the community offer hope for the future.

“It’s sad to see so many clubs close,” Arstall reflects. “But there is hope with hard work and belief.” For him and his team, preserving the legacy of working men’s clubs is about more than just survival; it’s about creating spaces that hold cherished memories for generations to come.