Defending champion Luke Littler secured a dominant 16-7 quarter-final victory over Josh Rock at the World Matchplay in Blackpool, throwing 17 180s. Littler will face Dirk van Duijvenbode in Saturday's semi-final, after Van Duijvenbode defeated Gary Anderson 16-13.
Darts player Cameron Menzies forfeited his World Matchplay second-round match against Ross Smith in Blackpool after experiencing high blood pressure and fainting. Medics cleared him, but he was unable to return. Elsewhere, Gerwyn Price, Gian van Veen, and James Wade advanced to the quarter-finals.
Residents in Thornton-Cleveleys, near Blackpool, are concerned about PFOA contamination linked to the AGC Chemicals Europe plant. A study found higher-than-expected kidney cancer rates, and soil and produce contamination has led to restrictions and potential legal action.
An eight-year-old schoolboy, Tommy from Blackpool, has won a competition to design the official BBFC Black Card for Toy Story 5. His artwork will be shown before all UK screenings of the film, and he met stars like Tom Hanks and Tim Allen at a preview event.
A government-funded study found no statistically significant excess of kidney cancer near a factory emitting PFOA, a known carcinogen. However, experts question the conclusion, citing elevated rates in two areas and the factory's history of PFOA emissions.
Blackpool CC, a historic cricket ground that has hosted legendary players, is facing challenges. The Lancashire men's team's recent defeats and relegation, coupled with internal club disputes and economic struggles in the town, cast a shadow over its future, despite efforts to engage refugees and attract new talent.
A former teacher and his partner are on trial accused of murdering an adopted baby who suffered 40 traumatic injuries before dying in hospital on 27 July 2023. The court heard defendant Varley texted his sister calling the infant 'dead meat' and later told his mother the child was 'murdered' weeks before the baby's death. The 10-month-old baby was adopted by the couple in Blackpool and had been taken into care by Oldham Council at five days old.
A former high school teacher Jamie Varley, 37, and his partner John McGowan-Fazakerley, 32, are on trial at Preston Crown Court accused of sexually abusing and murdering a 13-month-old baby boy they adopted. Preston Davey died on 27 July 2023 at Blackpool Victoria Hospital after suffering approximately 40 traumatic injuries over four months. The prosecution alleges Varley smothered the child and committed sexual assault, while McGowan-Fazakerley failed to protect the baby. Both defendants deny all charges.
