From the ‘bishop and the nightie’ to Sinn Féin ban – latest RTÉ debacle puts other controversies in the ha’penny place

Passengers on a Thameslink train were forced to evacuate and walk along sizzling tracks due to a breakdown amid a heatwave, with temperatures reaching 34°C. Many complained about unbearable conditions inside the train, likening it to being "slow cooked," as multiple trains experienced similar issues, prompting heat health alerts from the UKHSA. Need More Context? 🔎

Russian President Vladimir Putin, at the St Petersburg International Economic Forum, asserted Ukraine and Russia are "one nation," threatening "catastrophic" consequences if Ukraine uses a dirty bomb. Amid stalled peace talks over territorial disputes, he touted Russia's economic resilience while acknowledging recession risks, emphasizing military modernization and technological advancements from the conflict. Need More Context? 🔎

Rescue teams are searching for additional injuries following a tragic hot air balloon crash in Praia Grande, Brazil, which resulted in eight fatalities and 13 survivors out of 21 passengers. Governor Jorginho Mello expressed shock at the accident and confirmed ongoing support for the victims' families while monitoring the situation closely. Need More Context? 🔎

A Hull woman, 57-year-old Donna Jobling, is in intensive care in Crete after contracting Legionnaires' disease during an all-inclusive holiday. Her family reports she fell ill on June 5, was placed in an induced coma on June 11, and they are praying for her recovery as the source of the infection remains unidentified, prompting Easyjet Holidays to relocate other guests from the hotel. Need More Context? 🔎

Michael Royce Sparks, 62, is accused of murdering his neighbors, Daniel Menard, 79, and Stephanie Menard, 73, at Olive Dell Ranch nudist resort in Southern California after a dispute over a hot dog. Their bodies were found dismembered in a concrete bunker beneath Sparks' home, and he reportedly confessed to the killings, stating he felt humiliated by Menard's gesture. Need More Context? 🔎

A woman has been charged with the murder of her sister, award-winning film director Jennifer Abbott, 69, who was found stabbed in her Camden home on June 13. Nancy Pexton, also 69, was remanded in custody after her court appearance, with police investigating a possible link to a missing diamond-encrusted Rolex from Abbott's residence. Need More Context? 🔎