The monarch has offered to assist police examining links between a senior royal, a former Cabinet minister and convicted offender Jeffrey Epstein. He and the heir to the throne are said to be deeply concerned.

Madonna cheered on her twin daughters, Stella and Estere, at a Spurs Academy match, where their side won 5-0. The singer was on the touchline offering support as the team secured a commanding victory.

Relentless downpours continue, with some areas seeing rain every day of 2026. Forecasters warn the wet spell shows no sign of easing, and bookmakers price it at 1-2 that February will be the wettest on record. Flood alerts and travel disruption remain likely across the UK.

Sir Keir faces a Labour backlash after naming Peter Mandelson as the UK’s representative in Washington. Critics cite Mandelson’s past links to Jeffrey Epstein. The PM is said to have blamed security vetting for not flagging concerns as pressure mounts to rethink the move.