EastEnders Dean Wicks' lawyer's TV past exposed – from Emmerdale to Corrie

EastEnders has had its audience on the edge of their seats this week as the murder trial for Keanu Taylor finally got underway, leaving Dean Wicks (played by Matt Di Angelo) scrambling to prove his innocence with the assistance of his assertive solicitor.

Warren Finn, the defence attorney, is going all out to discredit witness testimonies from Stacey Slater (portrayed by Lacey Turner), Sharon Watts (played by Letitia Dean), and Linda Carter (acted by Kellie Bright).

The straight-talking barrister has already pushed Sharon to her limits, resulting in a seven-day prison sentence for contempt, while he attempted to dismiss Linda as an unreliable alcoholic.

However, EastEnders fans might be curious about where they've seen Warren Finn before.

The lawyer has kept viewers amused with digs towards The Six as they take to the witness box (Image: BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)

Actor Neil Roberts has reprised his role as Warren Finn after first appearing on the show in April, where he represented Eddie Knight (played by Christopher Fairbank) in his historic murder case against George Knight's (portrayed by Colin Salmon) biological father, reports the Daily Star.

Aside from his role on the long-standing BBC One soap, 59-year-old Neil has featured in an impressive array of TV shows both in the UK and the US. He's also no stranger to the world of soaps.

Viewers may recognise the actor from his role as Rex Buckland in the popular American series Charmed in the late 1990s. He joined the cast during the first season in 1998 and remained a regular until 2006.

Neil Roberts pictured in 2000 (Image: Sunday Mercury)

The actor has also made appearances in Party of Five, Baywatch Nights, Beverly Hills 90210 and even shared the screen with Dick Van Dyke in CBS' Diagnosis Murder.

Neil had a stint in the now-defunct Channel 5 soap opera Family Affairs, played Dr Phillip Lawlor in Holby City, and took on the role of Oberon Prince in Endeavour four years ago.

In 2011, he made his way to Weatherfield as Mike Leydon for a brief appearance in Coronation Street. Mike was a client of Frank Foster's (Andrew Lancel), with plans to go into business together.

However, Carla Connor (Alison King) accused Mike of sexual assault, leading to his departure from the show in early 2012.

Neil Roberts previously starred in Emmerdale as DS Jason Wise (Image: ITV)

Just four years later, Neil landed the role of Detective Jason Wise in Emmerdale, appearing in 17 episodes between 2016 and 2023.

DS Wise was given the task of investigating historic child abuse allegations against Gordon Livesy (Gary Mavers), brought forward by his son.

In 2017, it was announced that Neil would be joining Hollyoaks in a regular role as Glenn Donovan. However, after only 18 episodes, he left the show and the character was recast, with actor Bob Cryer stepping into the role.

EastEnders airs Monday - Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One and iPlayer.

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TfL staff have 'eggs and white spirit' thrown at them by those angry over ULEZ

Transport for London (TfL) has said that staff are still being 'assaulted' by people against Sadiq Khan's expansion of the city's ULEZ. This includes having 'eggs and white spirit' thrown at them.

In addition, vehicles have been 'blocked in' and cameras 'stolen'. It comes as the enlargement of the £12.50 charge incurred for driving more polluting vehicles turned a year old on August 29.

Documents for TfL's Safety, Sustainability and Human Resources Panel on Wednesday, September 4, state: "Confrontations associated with the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) still feature highly in Quarter 1 [of 2024/25]. With incidents including an assault, eggs and white spirit thrown, a car kicked, and vehicles blocked in, as well as faulty cameras stolen after a confrontation.

READ MORE: More cash needed for new London Overground line on old railway, says TfL

Sadiq Khan expanded the ULEZ on August 29, 2023 (Image: Zac Goodwin/PA Wire)

"We continue to work with our supply chain, the MPS [Metropolitan Police Service] and the wider Greater London Authority (GLA) Group to identify ways of reducing these incidents as well as undertaking training and briefing sessions on reducing conflict and conflict resolution."

Staff 'subjected to unacceptable abuse and intimidation'

A TfL spokesperson said: “It is a sad fact that we have been forced to deploy security staff to protect our contractors installing or repairing ULEZ cameras. A number of security staff have been subjected to unacceptable abuse and intimidation while carrying out their duties.

"For safety reasons, they are advised to record any issues on body-worn cameras to help deescalate conflict and if necessary, record evidence for police investigations. Vandalism is unacceptable and all incidents on our network are reported to the police for investigation.

"Criminal damage to ULEZ cameras or vehicles puts the perpetrators at risk of prosecution and injury, while simultaneously risking the safety of the public. Those trying to disrupt a scheme that is helping millions of Londoners breathe cleaner air will face the consequences of their actions through the courts."

Auto Pay ULEZ charge

Officials say, to help drivers of non-compliant vehicles 'avoid receiving a PCN', drivers can sign up to TfL’s Auto Pay, for free. Drivers signed up to Auto Pay are automatically billed for the number of charging days their vehicle travels within the Congestion Charge zone, LEZ and ULEZ.

There are no registration or renewal fees to add vehicles to Auto Pay or Fleet Auto Pay, bosses add. TfL also says that all vandalised cameras are repaired or replaced 'as soon as possible', and the authority's 'extensive' camera network which is 'sufficient to support the effective operation of the scheme'.

A TfL report published in July found that emissions have been brought down by 'six per cent more than expected'. It also concluded that PM2.5 gases given off by vehicles had gone down by 22 per cent - compared to if the Mayor of London had not expanded the £12.50 charge zone.

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'Starving student' shares budget-friendly meal ideas that can feed four for £5

As the cost of living crisis continues, many Londoners are looking for ways to slash their food bills.

However, one woman insists she's discovered some wallet-friendly recipes that could lighten the load for a family of four. Lauren Leyva has become an internet sensation thanks to her straightforward recipes that serve up four portions for less than £5.

Originally trained as an architect, Lauren now runs a full-time food business named The Starving Student, dedicated to low-waste meals. The 26-year-old's inventive approach has struck a chord online, racking up millions of views with a range of affordable meat, fish, vegetarian, and vegan recipes, all while emphasising minimal food waste.

"I was a student for seven years and completed my architect training," shares Lauren. "But setting up my food and recipe business through university is now a full-time business and helps over 70,000 people save money while eating well."

The 26-year-old shares simple meals that can feed four for under £5 (Image: (Image: COVER IMAGES))

Her love for cooking began early on, inspired by her Spanish father. "My dad taught me to cook from the age of four," she remembers. "Cooking remains the biggest bonding activity between us, and he was the reason I originally started sharing food photos on social media."

Lauren's popularity skyrocketed during the COVID-19 lockdown when she was invited to host a BBC radio segment titled "Tasty Tuesdays." During this period, people were forced to cook at home with limited ingredients, and her low-cost, low-waste recipes quickly became a hit.

One of her most beloved creations, a tomato soup recipe, has captured the attention of over a million viewers. "That tomato soup recipe resulted in 16,000 new social media followers, and the recipe was saved by over 20,000 people. I make four portions of it for under £5," she revealed.

The charm of the recipe lies in its simplicity. With just garlic, tomatoes, and red pepper, Lauren whipped up a roasted tomato, red pepper, and garlic soup that's both budget-friendly and easy to make.

Laura claims the popularity of her dishes lie in their simplicity (Image: (Image: COVER IMAGES))

Lauren also shares tips for saving money during the weekly shop. "When you go to the supermarket, crouch down and look at the lower shelves," she advises. "These are typically where the cheaper, unbranded products are placed. Also, look at the price per 100g or unit rather than the main price to find the best deals."

She recommends stocking up on long-lasting items like tinned or jarred foods and advises batch cooking to save time and money. "Batch cooking is especially great for students and families with limited time. Spend a night cooking two big meals and freeze portions for later."

Lauren is passionate about reducing food waste. "Wasted food is your hard-earned money down the drain. Stretching the life of food will save you money." She encourages planning meals ahead, organizing the fridge, and avoiding impulse buys by always shopping with a list.

Lauren's commitment to helping others save money and reduce waste extends to her meal planners available on her website. "I hope I can continue inspiring those in need of help or inspiration in the kitchen," she concludes.

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Sutton Council plans to improve walking and cycling routes from train station

Sutton Council is calling for residents to give their views on a new walking and cycling scheme connecting the London Cancer Hub (LCH) with a nearby station. The plans, which will see cycling and walking routes improved from Belmont station, come as part of a £14.1m levelling up investment to transform transport in Belmont.

Belmont is the nearest station from the LCH on the Royal Marsden Hospital site. It is roughly 10 minutes from the site and currently lacks any clear walking or cycling routes.

The Sutton plans would see paths extended and resurfaced along the route leading from Belmont station to the LCH. Lighting, signage, seating and greenery will also be improved along the route.

Read more: Farmfoods to close Sutton branch within weeks as site set for redevelopment

The Oaks Cancer Centre is one of the newest building at the London Cancer Hub (Image: Facundo Arrizabalaga)

The plans were revealed by the council last December after they successfully secured the local government investment. They also follow the recent improvements made to Belmont station.

Sutton Council recently worked with Network Rail to double train services between Belmont and London Victoria from two to four trains an hour in February this year. The station has also recently welcomed step-free access.

These changes have come as part of Sutton’s wider ambition to help the LCH become the world’s leading district for cancer research and treatment. It expects that this move will bring 13,000 new jobs in health, science, education and construction to the area.

The council went to residents with an initial consultation on cycling and walkway improvement plans in November last year. Out of the 65 respondents, there was agreement that cycling infrastructure should be improved, especially down Pelton Avenue and along the busy Brighton Road.

There were also concerns raised about issues such as parking, flooding at the station and potential traffic congestion arising from the proposed pedestrian crossings. The council says it has taken this feedback on board. Residents are now encouraged to give their views in the final consultation on the plans before the deadline of midnight on September 1.

Sutton Council said: “We are seeking feedback from people working, living and travelling in and around Belmont. Our designs showcase how we would like to improve and develop the space, including seating, flowers, pathways and much more. Therefore we would like to hear from people regularly using these spaces.”

The recently appointed Leader of Sutton Council, Barry Lewis, said: “The London Cancer Hub will put Sutton and Belmont at the heart of the search for a cure for cancer. These improvements will make everyone’s journeys safer and easier. We are committed to creating a welcoming and efficient route for those travelling between Belmont Station and the LCH. This project is a key part of our strategy to support the local economy and the thousands of new job opportunities that the LCH will bring to Sutton.”

The consultation page can be found here.

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Heathrow Airport strikes planned with Border Force staff walking out for 4 days

Strikes at Heathrow Airport have been planned as Border Force staff at the West London airport are due to walk out on Saturday, August 31, over 'inflexible' working conditions. The ongoing dispute centres around new rotas being implemented that officers are claiming are harming their work-life balance.

Around 650 members of the Public and Commercial Services union (PCS) will walk out on Saturday amid complaints that new rosters are inflexible. The staff will then work to rule and refuse to work overtime from September 4 to 22.

The union said its research showed that four in five Heathrow Border Force workers suffer from stress at work. More than one in four have taken time off due to stress or related mental health reasons since the introduction of the new rosters in April, said the union.

READ MORE: Tube strike 'cancelled' at last minute after TfL warned certain stations could close

File photo dated 29/04/24 of a sign on the picket line at Heathrow Airport. Border Force staff at Heathrow Airport will launch a four-day strike on Saturday in a long-running dispute over rosters. Issue date: Friday August 30, 2024. PA Photo. Around 650 members of the Public and Commercial Services union (PCS) will walk out amid complaints that new rosters are inflexible. See PA story INDUSTRY Strikes. Photo credit should read: Jamel Smith/PA Wire (Image: Jamel Smith/PA Wire)

Most staff regularly worry about managing home commitments around work, according to the PCS.

General secretary Fran Heathcote said: “This survey shows how badly our members’ wellbeing is being affected by the new roster system. These inflexible rosters are preventing parents dropping off and picking up their children from school.

"Managers could easily resolve the issue by allowing greater flexibility and by agreeing fixed shifts that give our members the chance to plan their caring responsibilities.”

A Home Office spokesperson said: “We appreciate the tireless work that Border Force do to keep our borders safe and secure, and we are committed to continuing our conversations with the union so we can find an agreement that works for both the public and staff.

"We will have robust plans in place to minimise disruption where possible, but we urge passengers to check the latest advice from operators before they travel.”

Got a story for us? Email anna.willis@reachplc.com.

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EastEnders fans 'work out' Roxy Mitchell's return after daughter's tragic accident

EastEnders fans are speculating about the comeback of soap icon Roxy Mitchel with a twist. The character, portrayed by Rita Simons, first appeared in 2007 and quickly became a fan favourite alongside her sister Ronnie, played by Samantha Womack.

Roxy was involved in numerous major storylines, from failed marriages to becoming the landlady of the Queen Vic, ensuring her time in Albert Square was never dull.

However, in 2017, both Roxy and Ronnie were tragically written out of the show after a decade, meeting their untimely end by drowning together on Ronnie's wedding day in one of the soap's most contentious episodes.

EastEnders fans are speculating about the comeback of soap icon Roxy Mitchel with a twist (Image: BBC/Kieron McCarron)

Currently, in the soap, Roxy's daughter Amy, played by Ellie Dadd, finds herself in a terrifying situation at the bar, Peggy's. Walford locals like Peter (Thomas Law) and Bobby (Clay Milner Russell) arrived at the venue and quickly realised things were spiralling out of control.

With Peggy's dangerously overcrowded and all exits blocked due to the massive crowds, panic ensued among the club-goers, including underage teenager Amy Mitchell who had sneaked in. Although the crowd eventually managed to escape, more drama unfolded as Amy was rushed into an ambulance and suffered a cardiac arrest seconds later, leading to her being hurried to hospital, reports the Daily Star.

Amy Mitchell got pushed up against in an overcrowded club (Image: BBC)

Since her hospitalisation, fans have been speculating that Amy's mother Roxy might reappear as a hallucination.

Last year, viewers saw Roxy return in a similar fashion during one of Amy's therapy sessions.

On social media platforms, such as Reddit, fans are expressing their hopes for Roxy's return. One fan commented: "I think it'd be awesome to have some more dream scenes with Amy and Roxy... that's what I am hoping for and then Amy recovers."

Will Rita Simons reprise her role once again? (Image: BBC)

Another fan speculated about the potential death of Amy's character, saying: "If the character really were to die, then I believe Rita would return for all of a minute to take her hand-in-hand into Heaven."

Discussing the likelihood of Roxy's return at a critical moment, a third fan wrote: "If Roxy appeared to her when she was struggling in a counselling session, then surely she would be on her deathbed."

They added confidently on another platform: "Amy's death brings back Roxy Mitchell, case closed thank you and goodbye."

One more viewer pondered the possibility of a ghostly cameo from Roxy, suggesting: "We'd better be getting a ghost of Roxy cameo, whilst Amy's having CPR, either telling Amy to walk with her (and Paddington) towards the light or to say it's not her time yet but they'll be together one day."

Emmerdale airs weeknights on ITV1 and ITVX at 7.30pm

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BBC EastEnders' Max Branning set for unexpected return after mention on soap

EastEnders fans are abuzz with speculation that Max Branning might make a dramatic comeback to Walford, nearly four years after his poignant departure.

In the latest episode from Wednesday (August 28), Albert Square was reeling from the aftermath of the disaster at Peggy's, which saw Amy Mitchell (played by Ellie Dadd) fighting for her life following a cardiac arrest and Lauren Branning (portrayed by Jacqueline Jossa) sustaining serious injuries.

Amidst the turmoil, Kathy Beale (Gillian Taylforth) turned her cafe into a refuge for those affected and the emergency services, with Bernie Taylor (Clair Norris) pitching in to help. However, their conversation quickly shifted to the upcoming murder trial of Keanu Taylor, stirring up emotions.

Bernie expressed her desperation for justice for her late brother, casting suspicion on Sharon Watts (Letitia Dean) despite Dean Wicks (Matt Di Angelo) being the one facing charges.

Kathy mentioned Max during Wednesday's EastEnders (Image: BBC)

"Sharon has been with Phil", Bernie said: "Yeah she has been around bad things, bad people. Maybe she tried to kill Ian because of Denny dying.", reports the Daily Star.

She continued: "Maybe she tried to kill Keanu because of the kidnapping, come on Kathy. You can't tell me that a part of you don't think it's true."

Kathy fiercely retorted: "Listen, Max started that rumour. He's a liar, and so is Dean. Look Sharon is a lot of things but she wouldn't do that."

Jake Wood's character Max Branning was written out of the iconic BBC soap EastEnders in 2021, after a memorable 15-year stint.

EastEnders fans think Max Branning is returning (Image: BBC/Kieron McCarron/Jack Barnes)

Max first arrived in Walford back in 2006, searching for his son, but eventually left the Square when he realised there was nothing left for him, opting to start anew abroad.

Max's fleeting romance with Linda Carter (portrayed by Kellie Bright) came to an end when she called it quits, triggering his exit from the show. The ex-couple share a daughter, Annie Carter, who is also the younger half-sister to Lauren.

After Kathy Beale mentioned Max and Lauren being in hospital, speculation among EastEnders fans has been rife about the possibility of Max making a comeback to Albert Square.

On social media platform X, one viewer speculated: "A Max mention - could he back? #Eastenders @bbceastenders."

Max Branning and Linda Carter share a daughter Annie (Image: BBC/Jack Barnes)

Another fan theorised: "#eastenders theory... so many threads cud pull Max back next week... imagine he rocks up with his new wife or something and it Chrissie! I would be so excited! ! ! ".

A third fan expressed certainty: "I'm fully convinced there will be a Max Branning return for the 40th. I just have a feeling #EastEnders."

One more viewer eagerly suggested: "Max Branning mention. BRING HIM BACK! #EastEnders".

EastEnders airs Monday - Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One and iPlayer

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