Bookmakers expect stakes of about £1bn this week as punters back the Grand National, the Masters and key Premier League fixtures. Firms anticipate large payouts if favourites win, with promotions and online markets pushing wagering to record levels.

A lottery ticket holder forfeited a £10.6m jackpot after missing the claim deadline. Under the rules, the unclaimed prize will be allocated to good causes, with the full amount going to charity.

Tickets for the 2026 World Cup final are set to cost up to £8,000, despite earlier assurances they would be capped near £1,174. The steep rise leaves supporters facing premium prices and prompts scrutiny of the event’s pricing policy.

A veteran radio presenter has spoken after being removed by the BBC following allegations about personal conduct. He said he fully co-operated with police during a 2018 inquiry and thanked loyal listeners for their support since his dismissal.