Amateur Rider Looking to Outdo the Professionals at Aintree
The Grand National at Aintree has a habit of producing some fairytale storylines, and there could be another this year as amateur rider Gina Andrews is set to feature in the race. She will be taking on 33 professional jockeys when she boards Latenightpass in the marathon contest.
Andrews has had success over the Grand National fences before, as she won the Foxhunters’ Chase on Latenightpass in 2022. She will be hoping her horse can now land the £500,000 top prize in the world’s most famous steeplechase at the Liverpool venue.
Latenightpass Will Be Up Against a Strong Field
The odds for Grand National 2024 are headed by last year’s winner Corach Rambler, who is the 5/1 favourite. Latenightpass is a 25/1 outsider to cause an upset in what is a top-quality field that includes several Grade One winners.
As the horse racing results show, Latenightpass has been victorious in one of his three races so far this season. He won a cross-country chase at Cheltenham back in December. On his latest appearance, he finished fifth of 10 runners at Haydock.
Although Andrews is an amateur rider, she is not short of experience in the saddle. She rides lots of horses for leading trainer Dan Skelton, who currently leads the British Trainers’ Championship standings.
Andrews will be bidding to become the second female jockey in history to win the race after Rachael Blackmore’s triumph in 2021 onboard Minella Times.
The last amateur jockey to win the Grand National was Sam Waley-Cohen in 2022. In what was his final ride in the sport, the dentist by profession landed the Aintree feature with the Irish horse Noble Yeats.
Waley-Cohen had a tremendous career as an amateur, as he also won the Cheltenham Gold Cup and the King George VI Chase in 2011 with Long Run. He is the last rider to win those two races in the same season.
Noble Yeats will line up in the Grand National again this year but without Waley-Cohen. The dentist will be a keen observer at Aintree, leaving the steering to professional rider Harry Cobden.
Marcus Armytage Broke the Course Record on Mr Frisk
Although many pundits feel Andrews and Latenightpass are up against it at Aintree this year, Marcus Armytage showed in 1990 that magical things can happen at the Merseyside venue. The amateur jockey broke the course record in the race when he prevailed with Mr Frisk, completing the course in a time of 8mins 47secs.
Mr Frisk and Armytage remain the only pair to complete the Grand National in less than nine minutes, despite the race taking place over a longer distance of 4m4f back then. They were helped by fast ground at the course in 1990, but a lot of credit must go to the amateur rider for the confidence he showed in his horse.
If Andrews can add her name to the roll of honor at Aintree this weekend, it will be one of the great storylines in the 185-year history of the race.
PAKEFIELD, SUFFOLK – In a daredevil bid to escape the perilous potholes plaguing Britain’s roads. Jeffrey Schlepp, a 57-year-old resident of Pakefield, Suffolk, has taken matters into his own hands by inventing a revolutionary mode of transportation: the flying car.
Frustrated by the crumbling infrastructure and tire-damaging craters littering Britain’s highways. Schlepp embarked on a mission to design and manufacture a vehicle capable of soaring above the chaos below.
The result? The snappily named “aeronautical auto-flying car plane”. A hybrid marvel equipped with a Robin Reliant engine and powered by an unconventional fuel: flavoured milk.
Flight of fancy
With the ability to take flight after achieving 100mph on the ground. Schlepp’s creation offers a novel solution to the woes of modern road travel. Sporting narrow wings that elegantly fold down along the sides of the car.
The vehicle seamlessly transitions from terrestrial to aerial mode in just two minutes and 15 seconds. A feat witnessed by astonished reporters as Schlepp took to the air and soared above Pakefield suburb.
Describing the experience as “smooth” and “exhilarating,” Schlepp demonstrated the capabilities of his airborne invention. Reaching a cruising speed of 170km/h and boasting a range of 1,000km (600 miles) at an altitude of 8,200ft (2,500m).
Britain’s flying car
The “aeronautical auto-flying car plane” is not merely a mode of transport. But a symbol of resistance in the face of the unstoppable demise of Britain’s crumbling infrastructure.
With the capacity to lift two passengers high above the terrestrial mire that is Britain’s devastated road system. Schlepp’s innovation offers a glimpse into a future where commuters can navigate the skies to evade the perennial pitfalls of the pavement below.
Maggie Marvelwas laid to rest in a unique two-piece coffin.Symbolising her integral role in over 12,000 “sawing a woman in half” tricks.
By Crime Editor: Rob Banks
Magic Circle
Friends, family, and fellow magicians gathered around the burial site to pay their respects to Marvel. Reminiscing about her illustrious career on the East Anglian light entertainment circuit.
The pinnacle of the Presto partnership was their unforgettable 1981 performance with iconic 1970s ventriloquist, Roger De Coursey, where their twist on the classic illusion, saw a cheese grater substituted for the traditional saw.
Marvel’s passing marks the end of an era in which she and Presto delighted audiences with their dazzling performances. Sadly, Presto himself met an untimely demise in 2011 due to a rabies infection stemming from a rabbit bite.
Magician’s magic
The decision to use a two-piece coffin was a touching tribute to Marvel’s remarkable contributions to the world of magic. It not only honoured her memory but also symbolized the multiple hemicorporectomies she endured in the name of her art.
As Marvel was laid to rest, she took the secrets of countless tricks and illusions with her, as well as her memories of audiences spellbound by her and Presto’s enchanting performances.
Though she may have left the stage, her legacy as a magician’s assistant extraordinaire will continue to inspire generations of aspiring magicians – and surgeons – for years to come.
Bury St Edmunds RSPCA denies ‘animal sacrifice’ allegations
The Bury St Edmunds branch of the RSPCA found themselves under scrutiny from none other than one of their concerned supporters.
By Rob Banks, Crime Editor
The source of the controversy? A seemingly innocuous banner hanging outside their high street shop that read, “Helping Bury Animals.”
Distressed local cat enthusiast, Loraine Fisher, already worried by the recent disappearance of her beloved feline companion, Fluffy, was taken aback by what she interpreted as a macabre message.
In a fit of alarm, she reported the RSPCA branch to …themselves, alleging cruelty to animals – the very thing the five-member team campaigns against.
Clarification was promptly provided to Loraine, explaining that the sign was not a sinister call to ‘bury animals’ but rather a testament to their commitment to assisting the furry residents of Bury St Edmunds.
However, Burke remained unconvinced, her suspicions fueled by the lingering uncertainty surrounding Fluffy’s whereabouts.
Dead cat bounce
As the misunderstanding gained traction, local gossip mills churned with tales of midnight burials and dark, satanic rituals, however, in the end, the branch members, described by Loraine as ‘a coven of witches’, weathered the storm of scrutiny, their banner still proudly displayed and donations, surprisingly, up.
As for Fluffy, the search for the elusive feline continues with Loraine raising a suspicious eyebrow each time she passes the Bury RSPCA.
Lowestoft Yoga school stretches value for money to the limit
LOWESTOFT, SUFFOLK – A new yoga school has opened in the unlikeliest of places: a lock-up garage in the gritty streets of Lowestoft, Suffolk. Welcome to “Lower Yoga,” where the downward dog isn’t just a pose, it’s a way of life.
Norfolk Reporter: Ian Bred
Nestled in the battered lock-up of Joanne Craddock, 36, a well-known local cleptomaniac. Lies a haven for those seeking inner peace amidst the chaos of everyday life. But don’t expect the serene ambience of a traditional yoga studio here. Lower Yoga embraces the grit and grime of ‘working-class’ wellness.
Guru some
Those daring to step into the ‘reception area’ of Lower Yoga are greeted by the sight of a battered old faux leather sofa with its springs poking through the worn upholstery. The lighting is provided by a solitary flickering fluorescent strip light, dangling precariously from the ceiling.
The floor, devoid of soft yoga mats and bolsters, is adorned instead with punctured lilos. Perfect for backbreaking sun salutations – and house bricks in place of the plush, cushioned variety usually found in more exclusive yoga retreats.
But it’s the soundtrack that truly sets Lower Yoga apart. Instead of the soothing strains of meditative music, members are serenaded by the cheerful melodies of nursery rhymes. Emanating from a wind-up vintage Fisher-Price record player ‘liberated’ from a local charity shop.
Om my God
Asked about her business strategy, Craddock proudly displayed her masterstroke: a homemade poster currently adorning local lamp posts. “Want to start yoga?” it reads, in DIY font. “Start by bending over and picking up your dog shit – known as the downward dog position – and then put it in a bin.”
It’s a bold move, to say the least, but Craddock is confident in her approach. “You get what you pay for here,” she declares, a glint of defiance in her eye. “None of that fancy stuff, just stretch and bend. £20 for half an hour, and you get a free bag of Wotsits on the way out.”
In a world of high-priced memberships and exclusive studios, Lower Yoga offers a refreshing reminder that money alone can’t buy inner peace.
From 2023 Success to 2024 Strategy: What’s Next for Boku Inc?
Boku Inc is a payment solution that has been disrupting the Fintech sphere in a number of ways since they emerged as an option on the market in 2009.
The company has helped to revolutionize the way that payments are being made for various industries, as customers are now being provided with new methods in which they can make a transaction. The Boku network utilises localized payment solutions, including Direct Carrier Billing (DCB), digital wallets, and Account-to-Account (A2A) connections.
A host of global companies have become key customers of the firm, with the likes of Amazon, Google, and many entertainment companies having all made the payment option available for their customers. It is also available across various other industries, with the iGaming sector having also been a key adopter of the payment solution.
It is now possible to find some of the best mobile casinos accepting Boku as a payment solution. Players in the UK can access their favorite games and play them immediately by adding funds and then paying for them via their phone bill.
Indeed, Boku payments have become extremely popular across the UK with gamblers, as the method offers an enhanced level of security that others simply can’t provide. Transactions made via this method do not require individuals to provide banking details nor any other sensitive data that may be potentially compromised if certain security precautions are not followed properly, especially as cybersecurity concerns continue to rise.
As a result, it’s easy to see why this solution is currently on the rise in 2024 and why there has been a lot of success recorded over the last 12 months.
Boku’s 2023 success in numbers
To put into context the amount of success that Boku had in 2023, it is worth taking a look at some of the important numbers that have been published.
Per a news report from Market Screener, Boku had managed to expand its network to over 300 Local Payment Methods (LPMs) – a method of payment that represents two-thirds of all global online payments in today’s financial world – across a total of 60 customers. The LPM market is huge, as it has managed to grow from being worth around just one-quarter of all online payments in 2010.
In addition to the rapid expansion that was experienced in the first six months of the year, the payment company had also managed to accelerate its growth in terms of customer numbers and adoption of their services. More than 32 million new customers had made their first purchase last year, on a network that has the potential to reach over 7.5 billion consumer payment accounts in over 90 different countries.
Economically, those figures also translated very positively for the company in 2023. They announced at the beginning of 2024 that once the earnings had been adjusted, they were ahead of where their market expectations were for the period. They saw revenue jump an incredible 30%, going from a total of $63.8 million in 2022 to $82.7 million in 2023. They also saw an increase in users over the same period, going from 52.3 million to 67.4 million; a growth of 29%.
The adjusted earnings before EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) had grown by 33% as they were up from $20.5 million to $27.3 million, with continued investment going into their product and service despite being far ahead of current market expectations. Total group cash also improved significantly over the last year, going from $116.3 million to $151.2 million.
What does 2024 hold for Boku?
Given the success that Boku has managed to have over the last year, there is certainly a lot of excitement about where the company could go and what it could experience in 2024.
As investment in the products and services being offered continues to be offered regarding Boku’s mobile-first payment network, it would not be a surprise if we were to see the payment solution become even bigger in the UK over the course of the year.
Additionally, we might be able to expect some new changes and new direction this year following the hiring of Stuart Neal as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). He replaces the former CEO, Jon Prideaux, who had announced six months prior that he would be retiring.
He has already announced he intends to build on the success that has been achieved in terms of their commerciality, as well as drive innovation to help improve the world of payments.
Neal will bring more than two decades of payments, leadership, and innovation experience to the company, while he is also arguably best positioned to take the organization into its next phase. He knows the business inside out, having served two terms as the company’s Chief Financial Officer before spending time elsewhere with other global companies, including Barclaycard, GlaxoSmithKline, and Virgin Media.
The Biggest Headaches Facing Essex Parents Right Now
Parenting is a journey filled with joys, challenges, and, occasionally, a few headaches. For parents in Essex, as in many parts of the UK, recent times have brought specific challenges to the forefront, affecting family life and the well-being of both parents and children. From navigating the cost of living to ensuring children receive a quality education amidst ongoing changes, addressing these issues requires awareness, resources, and sometimes, creative problem-solving.
Navigating Educational Uncertainty
The educational landscape has undergone significant shifts, leaving many parents concerned about the quality and consistency of their children’s schooling. With changes to exam formats, classroom structures, and curriculum delivery, ensuring children remain engaged and supported has become a primary concern for Essex parents.
Stay Informed and Engaged: Regular communication with your child’s school is essential. Attend parent-teacher meetings, subscribe to school newsletters, and follow any school community platform to stay up-to-date with the latest information and resources.
Support Learning at Home: Create a conducive learning environment at home where possible. This includes having a quiet study space, access to necessary materials, and a routine that balances academic activities with leisure and family time.
Explore Additional Resources: Consider supplemental educational resources or tutoring if your child needs extra support. Many online platforms offer learning materials aligned with the UK curriculum across various subjects and key stages.
The Cost Of Living Crisis
The rising cost of living is a significant concern for families across Essex. From grocery bills to energy costs, parents are finding their budgets stretched thinner than ever. Managing these financial pressures while trying to provide for a family can be incredibly stressful.
Budgeting and Financial Planning: Develop a detailed family budget to track income and expenditures. Identify areas where you can cut back on non-essential spending and prioritise funds towards necessities.
Seek Financial Assistance: Be aware of and apply for any financial assistance you may be eligible for, such as child benefit, Universal Credit, or support towards energy bills. Local councils and charities may also offer grants or aid for families in financial hardship.
Energy Efficiency: Reducing energy consumption can help manage utility bills. Simple measures like ensuring your home is well-insulated, using energy-efficient appliances, and being mindful of your energy usage can make a difference.
The Cost Of Driving
For many families in Essex, driving is an essential part of daily life, whether it’s commuting to work, taking children to school, or running errands. However, the cost of driving – from fuel prices to car maintenance – has become a growing headache for parents trying to balance their household budgets.
Economical Vehicle Choices: Consider the fuel efficiency of your vehicle and explore options for more economical models if a change is feasible. Electric and hybrid cars, while having a higher upfront cost, can offer savings in the long run through lower running costs and tax benefits.
Smart Travel Planning: Consolidate trips and errands to save on fuel. Carpooling for school runs or work commutes can also reduce individual driving costs and benefit the environment. You could also think about hiring a car if you want flexibility. Wheelchair-accessible vehicle hire is also possible for parents of families with mobility needs. Look for mobility cars for hire from a provider that you can trust with excellent reviews.
Regular Maintenance: Keeping your vehicle in good condition can prevent costly repairs down the line. Regular checks and servicing can improve fuel efficiency and prolong the life of your car.
Access To Healthcare Services
The accessibility and availability of healthcare services have become increasingly concerning for parents, especially when it comes to securing timely appointments for their children. From routine vaccinations to specialist consultations, ensuring your child receives the necessary care without undue delay is paramount.
Leverage Digital Services: Many GP practices and healthcare providers offer online consultation services. Using these can sometimes offer a quicker route to advice or treatment for non-emergency concerns.
Know Your Options: Familiarise yourself with the healthcare services available in your area, including walk-in centres, urgent care clinics, and how to access out-of-hours services. Understanding what each service offers can help you make informed decisions in times of need.
Advocate for Your Child: Don’t hesitate to follow up on referrals or appointments. If you’re concerned about your child’s health or the wait times for services, be persistent in seeking the care they need.
Balancing Work And Family Life
The juggle of work commitments with family life is a perennial challenge, but recent shifts in the work environment, including the increase in remote working, have added new dimensions to this balancing act. Finding a harmonious balance is crucial for the well-being of the entire family.
Flexible Working Arrangements: Explore the possibility of flexible working hours or remote work opportunities with your employer. Many organisations are now more open to flexible arrangements that can help parents manage their time more effectively.
Time Management: Effective time management, including setting clear boundaries between work and family time, can help mitigate stress. Prioritise activities and responsibilities, and don’t be afraid to delegate tasks when possible.
Quality Family Time: Ensure you carve out dedicated time to spend with your family, free from the distractions of work. These moments are vital for maintaining strong family bonds and supporting each other through challenging times.
Mental Health Support
The mental health of both children and parents has come under the spotlight, accentuated by the pressures of modern life and recent global events. Ensuring there is adequate support and open conversations about mental health is essential.
Encourage Open Dialogue: Create a safe space at home where feelings and worries can be openly discussed. Encouraging children to express their emotions and concerns can help identify issues early.
Seek Professional Help: If you or your child are struggling, don’t hesitate to seek support from mental health professionals. Early intervention can be key to managing mental health conditions effectively.
Self-Care Practices: Incorporate self-care and mindfulness practices into your family routine. Activities like meditation, exercise, or simply enjoying nature can improve mental well-being and resilience.
Navigating Online Safety And Screen Time
In an increasingly digital world, parents are often concerned about their children’s online safety and the impact of screen time on their development and well-being. Balancing the educational and recreational use of digital devices while ensuring children are protected from online risks is a growing headache for many.
Set Clear Guidelines: Establish rules around the use and duration of screen time, tailored to your child’s age and needs. Encourage activities that don’t involve screens to promote a balanced lifestyle.
Use Parental Controls: Take advantage of parental control tools and settings on devices and online platforms to monitor and restrict access to inappropriate content, ensuring your child’s online interactions are safe.
Educate About Online Safety: Have open discussions with your children about the importance of online safety, including the risks of sharing personal information and how to recognise and handle inappropriate content or online bullying.
Enhancing Outdoor And Physical Activities
With the allure of digital entertainment, encouraging children to engage in outdoor and physical activities has become more challenging. Yet, these activities are essential for physical health, mental well-being, and fostering a connection with nature.
Plan Regular Outdoor Activities: Schedule time for outdoor activities as a family, such as walks, bike rides, or visits to local parks and nature reserves. Essex offers a variety of outdoor spaces perfect for exploration and adventure.
Join Local Clubs or Teams: Encourage your children to join local sports teams, clubs, or activity groups. This not only promotes physical activity but also helps them develop social skills and make new friends.
Lead by Example: Be a role model by actively participating in physical activities yourself. Your enthusiasm for being active and spending time outdoors can inspire your children to follow suit.
