The “Big Nationwide Thank You” payment is being issued to customers as a gesture of gratitude to its members for their contribution to the successful acquisition of Virgin Money.
The deal was finalised in October 2024, following the required approvals from regulators and Virgin Money shareholders.
However, Nationwide customers were not given the opportunity to vote on the deal.
This led to dissatisfaction among some members, with a number expressing their concerns over the Virgin Money acquisition and even petitioning for a vote on whether the sale should proceed.
While nothing changed straight away for customers of either bank, there could be some changes in the future as the Virgin Money brand is slowly phased out over the next six years.
The acquisition of Virgin Money means Nationwide now serves over 24.5million customers, employs more than 25,000 staff, and operates nearly 700 branches.
“Thank You” payments began appearing in bank accounts from April 9, but eligible members may need to keep checking their banking apps until April 30.
For those who do not receive the payment directly into their account, there is a possibility that a cheque will be issued, which could arrive as late as May 14.
Who will miss out on the payment?
To be eligible for the cash you must have been a Nationwide member on September 30, 2024 and still currently be a member.
Meanwhile, in the year to the end of September 2024 you must also have:
Had at least one qualifying transaction on your Nationwide current account or savings account, or
Had at least £100 in total in one or more of your Nationwide current accounts and savings accounts, or
Owed at least £100 in total on one or more Nationwide residential mortgages, or
Switched to a Nationwide current account between July 1, 2024 and September 30, 2024 using the current account switch service.
If you haven’t met the above criteria, you won’t be eligible for the payment.
History of Nationwide
NATIONWIDE Building Society, the UK's largest building society, boasts a rich history stretching back to 1846.
Starting as the Provident Union Building Society in Ramsbury, Wiltshire, its initial aim was simple: to help people save and buy their own homes.
Over the years, Nationwide grew through a series of mergers with approximately 250 smaller building societies.
This steady expansion led to significant milestones, such as the first savings boxes offered by a UK financial institution in 1904 and the opening of its first official branch in Birmingham in 1925.
In 1970, reflecting its national reach, the society officially adopted the name “Nationwide”.
Two key mergers shaped the modern Nationwide.
The first, with Anglia Building Society in 1987, significantly increased its size and presence.
The second, with Portman Building Society in 2007, solidified its position as a major force in the UK financial market, bringing together around 13 million members and over £160billion in assets.
More recently, in 2024, Nationwide acquired Virgin Money, further expanding its customer base and reach.
Will Nationwide issue a £100 Fairer Share Payment this year?
MILLIONS of Nationwide customers could be due to get a free £100 payment in the coming months.
However, this will depend entirely on Nationwide’s financial performance.
Last June, the building society paid £385million in £100 payments to 3.85million members after announcing a pre-tax profit of £1.77billion.
Nationwide’s boss, Debbie Crosbie, stated back in December that the bank is “well positioned” to distribute the £100 payment to members this year.
However, more than 12million customers missed out on last year’s £100 “Fairer Share Payment” due to the society’s strict eligibility criteria.
Assuming that the eligibility criteria remains the same in 2025, customers’ current accounts should be “active” between January and March, so don’t close your account between these dates.
You will also need to use your current account within the first three months of the year, but how you’ll need to go about this will depend on your account type.
For example, customers with a Flex Account, Flex Basic and FlexDirect account must either pay at least £500 into the account and make two payments out.
The same customers may also qualify as long as they make at least 10 payments out.
Those with a FlexPlus packaged bank account will automatically qualify for the Fairer Share Payment as long as they continue to pay the monthly fee.
Customers with a FlexOne, FlexGraduate and FlexStudent can qualify as long as they make a payment into and out of the account in March 2025.
Finally, all customers outlined above must also ensure they have at least £100 in savings or owe at least £100 on a mortgage with Nationwide in March 2025.
Korean AirKorean Air has revealed its new onboard business class suites[/caption]
Korean AirThe new suites will debut in 2028[/caption]
It was awarded the prestigious gong thanks to its “commitment to excellence, innovation and, above all, passenger comfort.”
Flights onboard the world-class airline are set to get better from 2028 when Korean Airlines introduces its new first-class suite, called Prestige Suites 2.0.
The new business class suites have been designed by PriestmanGoode and will feature sliding doors and high walls for enhanced privacy.
Other features inside the plush new cabins include USB-C power outlets, wireless charging ports and a 23-inch video screen.
Each of the seats will have a 46-inch pitch, and they can be converted into flat beds that stretch for two metres.
Couples can lower the divider between the middle seats, allowing families to journey together.
The airline has dubbed this feature as ‘honeymoon mode’.
Korean Air will be rolling out the new suites across a raft of different aircraft, including A350, 777 and 787.
Vice President and Chief of In-flight Service and Lounges at Korean Air, David Pacey, said: “With the new aircraft that will be coming in – the A350, 777 and 787 – they’ll have a new first class cabin”.
The airline is also upgrading the first class service on some of its existing flights.
From March 12, first-class passengers travelling on Korean Air benefitted from an overhauled inflight dining service.
The upgraded first class service debuted on ten long-haul routes, including services from London, Paris and New York.
It’s not just all about first-class passengers on Korean Airlines flights, with AirlineRatings.com praising its economy class service.
They added: “This year, the spotlight on economy class space propelled Korean Air from second place last year to the top spot.
“Korean Airline’s economy class stands out for its generous seat pitch and width, providing a superior experience for travelers.”
“While many airlines have added a 10th seat per row on 777 aircraft and reduced seat pitch in economy to 31–32 inches (down from the previous 32–33 inches), Korean Air has chosen not to follow this trend.
Korean AirThe seats will convert into lie beds, which will stretch for two metres[/caption]
Korean AirThe new business class suites have been designed by PriestmanGoode[/caption]
“They have maintained their original seat configuration and a generous 33-34 inch seat pitch, offering passengers a more comfortable experience.”
Korean Airlines isn’t the only flag carrier upgrading some of its suites.
AirFrancewill be installing four suites onboard a selection ofBoeing777-300ER aircraft.
Inside each of the suites, there will be a seat and a chaise lounge, the latter of which converts into a 2m-long bed.
They will be located at the front of the plane, with the premium seat spanning five windows in a first for AirFrance.
While I also tried out their business class – which I was extremely impressed with when it came to how much space there was – the economy hardly felt like much of a step back.
The seat pitch is the most spacious in the world at 34 inches along with Japan Airlines.
Not only that, but passengers are given slippers, something rarely offered to economy passengers.
They are made to be kept, so you can use them when going back and forth to the bathroom during the flight.
Also provided are a pillow and blanket as well as toothbrush pouches, a bottle of water and headphones (although these need to get handed back at the end).
Korean AirThe new suites will feature sliding doors and high walls for enhanced privacy.[/caption]
Korean AirKorean Airlines was named the world’s best airline by AirlineRatings.com in their 2025 World’s Best Airlines Awards.[/caption]
2 days agoLatest NewsComments Off on Andre Onana dropped for Man United’s clash against Newcastle with flop keeper left at home after Lyon disasterclass
RUBEN AMORIM has taken keeper Andre Onana out of the firing line for Manchester United’s trip to Newcastle today.
The Cameroon international stayed back in the North West as the squad travelled to Tyneside on Saturday evening.
GettyAndre Onana has been dropped for Manchester United’s trip to Newcastle[/caption]
GettyRuben Amorim has axed the Cameroonian following his Europa League blunders against Lyon[/caption]
REUTERSBut the former Ajax and Inter stopper will be back in the sticks next Thursday[/caption]
REXAltay Bayindir will make his Premier League debut in Andre Onana’s absence[/caption]
2 days agoLatest NewsComments Off on My dreams came true when I found out I was expecting after a miscarriage – then my pregnancy gave me cancer
SOPHIE Forbes-Perry was “over the moon” when she discovered she was expecting a baby after years of trying.
But her longed-for pregnancy turned into a nightmare when she was told it had given her cancer.
Sophie Forbes-PerrySophie Forbes-Perry was devastated when she discovered her pregnancy gave her cancer[/caption]
Sophie Forbes-PerryThe 42-year-old was told she had gestational trophoblastic disease[/caption]
The 42-year-old, who has been with husband Simon for seven years, had already gone through the devastating heartbreak of a miscarriage, and she wasn’t sure how much more she could take.
Sophie, who lives in York, tells Sun Health: “We met when I was 35 and we decided to get married first before trying for a family.
“We tied the knot in 2019, and then Covid happened.
“I was running wellbeing workshops and I was so hectic with work, but we decided to go to Thailand in 2021 and I conceived while we were away.
“I was over the moon but I had really strong morning sickness and was throwing up a lot.
“We paid for an early scan and we were told there was no heartbeat and I had had a missed miscarriage.
“I was devastated and had to have surgery to release the pregnancy.
“I thought I was going to be seven months pregnant on my 40th birthday but instead I was not pregnant and I was heartbroken with it all.”
Nine months later, Sophie says she felt emotionally ready to try again.
She discovered she was pregnant over Christmas, but this time, she and Simon were more cautious and asked for an earlier scan.
Once again, they faced a crushing heartbreak.
Sophie says: “The nurse said, ‘I don’t know what I’m looking at,’ and went to get a second opinion.
“I was then told I had a molar pregnancy. They said, ‘You were pregnant at some point but now all we can see is a lot of little tumors’.
“I just thought, ‘Here we go again’.”
Sophie had surgery to remove the tumours, and ended up “very sick”.
It’s caused by a problem with a fertilised egg and means a baby and a placenta do not develop the way they should after conception. It will not be able to survive.
Who gets cancer from a pregnancy? I was in disbelief
Sophie Forbes-Perry
Sophie says: “I had surgery and doctors said they thought they had taken everything out, but I wasn’t recovering the way I thought I would be.
“Something felt different, so they gave me antibiotics and I went on holiday.
“When I got back, they checked me and the tumours had returned.”
Once again, Sophie had to undergo surgery – but now, the fear really started to set in.
She says she then started researching her condition, and asked if it could become cancerous.
Reassuringly, Sophie was told it was very rare for that to happen.
“I went in for the same surgery and had tumours removed,” she says.
“I spoke to the consultant and they said they were happy they had taken everything out.
“I wanted to feel better but I was very sick – a smell would set me off. I was fed up and felt terrible.”
Sophie had previously experienced a miscarriageSophie Forbes-Perry‘I was in disbelief, just trying to make sense of it,’ she saysSophie Forbes-PerrySophie Forbes-PerrySophie underwent treatment and is now cancer-free[/caption]
But with no other action to take, all she could do was simply “wait it out”.
“A week later, I went to have blood tests and then I got a phone call,” Sophie says.
“At that point I had got to know the staff well. I knew what was happening and I said, ‘That means it’s cancer doesn’t it?’
“They said, ‘Yes,’ and told me to phone the hospital. I cried and was very emotional.”
Sophie had an MRI and was told she had gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) – a rare condition that can cause abnormal cells or tumours to grow in the uterus during or after pregnancy.
Most are non cancerous (benign) but some are.
Sophie says: “When you hear the word ‘cancer’ you fear the worst. I was trying to remain positive but kept thinking, ‘Who gets cancer from a pregnancy?’
“I was in disbelief, just trying to make sense of it.”
MONTHS IN HOSPITAL
The only relief came when she discovered it was not a cancer you can die from.
“I didn’t have to worry about dying – but I thought, ‘Am I going to lose my hair?’,” she says.
“I didn’t know anyone who had gone through cancer treatment.”
Sophie needed the lowest dose of chemotherapy and says she was relieved to discover it hadn’t spread to any organs.
“My life became four months in hospitals after that – every fortnight on a Monday I had my bloods checked and received regular injections,” she says.
“I would have four in a week – a week off – then start again.
“I would have two days feeling relatively normal in two weeks. I was constantly throwing up.”
Gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD)
Gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) is the name for abnormal cells or tumours that start in the womb from cells that would normally develop into the placenta.
They are extremely rare – diagnosed in about 1,800 women in the UK every year – but can happen during or after pregnancy.
Most are non cancerous (benign) but some are – though they are different to womb cancer.
There are many types of GTD, including: molar pregnancy, invasive mole, choriocarcinoma, placental site trophoblastic tumour (PSTTs) and epithelioid trophoblastic tumour (ETT).
In a molar pregnancy, the fertilisation of the egg by the sperm goes wrong and creates abnormal cells or clusters of water filled sacs inside the womb. Molar pregnancies are not cancer.
Invasive mole and choriocarcinoma are very rare types of cancer that can occur after pregnancy. They are types of GTD.
PSTTs and ETTs happen after pregnancy and are extremely rare and are slow growing.
Treatment for all types of GTD is very successful and most women are cured.
Source: Cancer Research UK
Sophie had to have three more rounds of chemo and six weeks of treatment.
“People want you to be OK but it’s difficult – you still feel terrible,” she says.
“I was exhausted – my body has gone through a lot and navigating life afterwards is difficult,” she says.
“I was trying to figure out what life is like after cancer.
“Then I had to deal with the pregnancy loss – the brain could only take one thing.”
Sophie, who is currently undertaking IVF, adds: “You can’t just slot back into life. Things are different – you’re not the same.
“My poor body has gone through so much; I need to live a slower life, have boundaries and care for myself.”
Sophie is now cancer-free and using her experiences to help other women by running workshops at her local cancer centre.
She says she creates spaces for women to just ‘be’, giving them the chance to look after their own wellbeing.
Sophie, the founder of two not-for-profit organisations specialising in emotional resilience and the owner of small business Heart & Soul with Sophie, says: “I have realised how we all need a tribe, community or sisterhood.
“From someone who was fiercely independent to learning how to ask for help and accept support – I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of other amazing women.”
What is a molar pregnancy?
A MOLAR pregnancy is a rare complication that happens by chance.
It is when there is a problem with a fertilised egg, which means a baby and a placenta do not develop in the way they should after conception.
Molar pregnancies may seem regular at first, but they cannot develop into a healthy baby.
They can be complete, when a sperm fertilises an empty egg that contains no genes from the woman and no parts of the baby form.
Or they can be partial, when two sperm fertilise the egg at the same time, so there is one set of female chromosomes and two sets of male chromosomes, and there may be some tissue that looks like a foetus.
Despite early signs of a baby, it cannot fully develop or survive.
In rare cases, a twin pregnancy will show a normal developing baby and a molar pregnancy at the same time.
For many women, it is possible for the pregnancy to continue. But if you have complications, it may not be able to. Speak to your doctor.
Source: NHS and Cancer Research UK
Sophie says she struggled to deal with her cancer and pregnancy loss at the same timeSophie Forbes-PerrySophie Forbes-PerryShe runs wellbeing workshops at her local cancer centre[/caption]
Sophie Forbes-Perry‘I have realised how we all need a tribe, community or sisterhood,’ she says[/caption]
Sophie spent four months in and out of hospital for treatmentSophie Forbes-PerryShe is now undertaking IVFSophie Forbes-Perry
2 days agoLatest NewsComments Off on I tried high street pillows – the £4 supermarket winner helps give you a great night’s sleep
FINDING the perfect pillow can be tough but it’s worth persevering as the best ones can completely transform the quality of your sleep.
We all have different preferences with some of us preferring firm, memory foam pillows and others wanting squashy pillows, perhaps made of feather and down.
Oliver DixonLysney has tested high street pillows to improve sleep[/caption]
The options are endless with many companies now offering hypoallergenic options for allergy sufferers or “cooling” materials for those that get hot at night.
Whichever pillow you plump for, it should keep your spine aligned through the night so you don’t wake up with aches and pains.
Around three million Brits are affected by back or neck pain every year, so getting it right is key to getting your eight hours and waking up refreshed.
So which is best? Lynsey Hope reviewed a selection of best-sellers and here, she shares her verdict:
Oliver DixonAmazon is selling a two-pack of pillows for £13.99[/caption]
Lynsey says: “These arrived vacuum packed and didn’t look terribly appealing, but once they were out of the packaging and fluffed up a bit, they were pretty cosy.
“They felt soft to touch with a quilted case and a plush filling.
“Even though they were quite soft and fluffy, they provide reasonable support and I didn’t notice any neck or back pain after using them.
“To boot, they are machine washable and hypoallergenic.
Oliver DixonSlumberdown’s pillows are designed to lift and support your head[/caption]
Lynsey says: “A great option for side sleepers or those who require firm support.
“These pillows are designed to lift and support your head, whilst maintaining proper alignment of the spine and neck, preventing stiffness and discomfort.
“The covers are soft to touch and they have a cool, hollow fibre filling to keep you cool through the night.
Oliver DixonIf you have a snorer at home, you may want to give this pillow a go[/caption]
Lynsey says: “Snoring has a big impact on your sleep but on your partner’s too.
“This pillow is designed with a unique s-shaped block to encourage better breathing and to help relieve symptoms of snoring.
“It offers medium support and was quite comfy if you sleep on your back.
“The cover is 100% cotton. It can’t go in the washing machine and you are advised to sponge it clean with a damp cloth, so after a while, it might get dirty.
“Did it stop snoring? Not entirely, but it did make a difference so if that’s a struggle for you, this is only £10 and could be worth a shot.”
Oliver DixonThe cool touch technology of Simba’s pillow worked a treat, but it comes with a hefty price tag[/caption]
Lynsey says: “This is a more budget-friendly option from luxury sleep brand, Simba.
“They claim it’s soft but this isn’t an option for someone who wants a fluffy pillow you are going to sink into.
“It is structurally robust, but quite thin so a great option for someone who wants support and not too much volume. It needed regular plumping, but I slept well on it.
“The cool touch technology is fantastic and worked a treat, but this pillow only has it one side so you can’t flip your pillow in the night.
“As an added bonus, the pillow is made from recycled bottle fibres so it has less impact on the environment. No getting away from the fact it is pricey.”
Comfort: 4/5
Value: 3/5
Overall score: 7/10
The Fine Bedding Company Smart Temperature Pillow
£30, Fine Bedding
Oliver DixonThis pillow had the same cooling technology as Simba’s option, but on both sides[/caption]
Lynsey says: “Half the price of the Simba option, but even better.
It had the same cooling technology, but this time, on both sides of the pillow and it was very effective.
“It’s thermoregulation two-step system works by firstly offering a cooling sensation before the first sign of moisture.
“It can sense an increase in body temperature, which then activates a unique cooling effect allowing moisture to evaporate.
“When the body has reached its ideal temperature, the reduced body heat will guide the cooling effect to ease back so that you won’t feel a chill.
“And the technology works through all types of linens, so it won’t matter what covers you have over it.
“It’s washable at 40 degrees and can even go in the tumble dryer, after which it retained it’s shape well. I have to say, I was impressed and at £30 it won’t break the bank.”
Comfort: 5/5
Value: 5/5
Overall score: 10/10
Dunelm Full Forever Anti-Allergy Side Sleeper Pillows
2 days agoLatest NewsComments Off on Dark side of world’s ‘influencer capital’ where stars are preyed upon for sex & brutalised at ‘porta potty’ parties
DUBAI is famous for its tall buildings, fast cars and glamour – but when night falls across the city, a much more sinister image emerges.
Young female influencers are being drawn to the glittering UAE by huge sums of cash, but can quickly get caught up in a disturbed cycle of depravity.
A Ukrainian OnlyFans model was left fighting for her life after allegedly attending a party in DubaiEast2WestGettyPartygoers on a yacht during the Dubai International Boat Show[/caption]
Former Love Island star Tyne-Lexy Clarson has spoken out about being offered a five-night trip to Dubai and said it felt like ‘high-end prostitution’Instagram
Stunning TV and internet stars are approached with incredible opportunities to “expand their careers” for mega money before becoming trapped by the ultra-rich people that have flown them in.
Once in the country, they are under their complete control where they can be raped, drugged or even end up dead, an expert warned.
Dubai is governed by Sharia law, which criminalises sex outside of marriage, meaning vulnerable women may feel they have no choice but to stay in the shadows or face arrest.
Despite its clean image, the metropolis caters for all sorts of seedy activities for the super rich, with brothels and sex clubs – as well as brutal “Porta Potty” parties.
These sick events involve rich men paying over £70,000 to play out their fantasies in real life and can include vile sex acts such as defecation.
‘Exploitation disguised as glamour’
While previously women from impoverished backgrounds may have been sex-trafficked into the country to meet the needs of wealthy clientele, it seems unsavoury characters have a sinister new tactic.
Online personalities and even TV stars are being targeted and sold the dream of a new life in the desert – but experts warn that not all that glitters is gold.
Just last month, a UkrainianOnlyFans model vanished after attending one of the murky “Porta Potty” parties, the Mirror reported.
But the mystery deepened when Dubai police said the model’s injuries came from her entering “a restricted construction site” and falling from a height.
Ukrainian police have since launched a sex trafficking probe as they continue to investigate the circumstances around Maria’s disappearance and horror injuries.
Maria is among the key demographic of vulnerable women often taken advantage of by wealthy men in the city, according to other young females with shockingly similar stories.
Founder and CEO of Detained in Dubai, Radha Stirling, told The Sun there have been serious warnings about the vile parties for decades.
She believes the brutal drug-fuelled and coercive nature of the luxury events are often covered up to maintain the city’s positive reputation by its influential power players.
Dubai presents a highly polished and ‘crime-free’ image to the world, but behind the scenes, there is a darker reality that needs to be addressed.
Radha StirlingFounder and CEO of Detained in Dubai
Radha says: “It’s exploitation disguised as glamour or opportunity.
“Women, in particular, are offered all sorts of opportunities in Dubai.
“They might be offered to come and model, to come and play music, or to expand their career in some way or another.
“But what they don’t realise is that when they get there, they are essentially at the beck and call of whoever has brought them there.
“They’re under their complete control and they put themselves in such a risky position where they could end up gang raped, they could end up drugged, they could end up dead.”
Radha added: “Dubai presents a highly polished and ‘crime-free‘ image to the world, but behind the scenes, there is a darker reality that needs to be addressed.”
The UAE government, including Dubai’s authorities, has been taking steps to try and combat sex trafficking ever since new laws were introduced in 2006.
In 2023, officials investigated 37 human trafficking cases, with 97 per cent involving sex trafficking, according to the US Department of State – a significant jump from 2022, which saw 27 investigations carried out.
‘Influencer capital’
Influential celebrities flock to Dubai’s golden beaches to bask in the all-year-round sunshine, promoting their trips on Instagram and showering the Middle East with compliments – with many dubbing it the “influencer capital of the world”.
But for all the glamorous social media showcases which have drawn thousands to the Emirates in recent years, some have found themselves behind bars for as little as writing a bad review on Google or bumping cars.
Last June, Emirates cabin crewmember Tori Towey, 28, from Ireland, was charged with attempting suicide, which is considered a crime in the UAE, and consuming alcohol.
She says she had been in an abusive marriage and, after a row with her husband, tried to end her life.
Police were called, but instead of helping Tori, they strip-searched her and put her in a crowded cell.
PATori Towey was arrested and charged with attempting suicide in Dubai[/caption]
The cabin crew member said she was in an abusive marriageGettyDubai’s dark underbelly has reared its head again with several horror stories about men luring in woman for depraved acts[/caption]
The road outside The Dubai Mall is often packed out with supercars as Dubai flaunts its wealth to the worldGetty
Former Love Island stars, TikTok influencers and top models have also spoken out about attempts to lure them to Dubai – and it can be a very tempting offer.
Love Island season three star Tyne-Lexy Clarson said she was offered £20,000 to attend a dinner and drinks in the Middle East when she was aged just 19.
She said: “It’s high-end prostitution – it’s just scary to think if they’ve messaged me, they’ve probably sent it to thousands of pretty girls on Instagram.”
She claims she was also offered £50,000 for five nights in Dubai, on the condition that she signed a non-disclosure agreement and what she would be required to do would remain confidential.
The reality TV star raised concerns that struggling influencers may feel more pressure to accept the generous offers to boost their careers.
Rosie Williams, another Love Island star, said she was offered £100,000 a year in addition to all the clothes and bags she wanted if she would become a companion to a man in Dubai.
London-based TikToker Saint Mullan, also publicly addressed an offer she received from Dubai elites.
She claims she was offered £16,000 to fly out and allegedly fulfil a prince‘s bizarre fetishes, including urinating on her. She shared screenshots of their conversations online.
Wealthy model Kayla Jade told her followers that she knows people who have been taken away on private cruise trips where sick acts took place away from the city’s bright lights.
She said it often feels like a “power move” from the men who are looking to gain “ownership over the women”.
Love Island star Rosie Williams says she was offered cash to become a man’s companion in DubaiITVTyne-Lexy Clarson revealed she had several offers to fly out to the UAERex FeaturesInstagram/itsmekaylajadeKayla Jade said some wealthy men are looking to gain ‘ownership over the women’[/caption]
GettyNight time at Dubai Marina which is often packed out with pricey yachts[/caption]
Astonishing fees of up to £78,000 have been paid on the provisions that they “fulfil the desires” of the ultra-rich men, according to the New York Post.
In the past, some have allegedly been paid up to £40,000 for extreme acts such as having their teeth pulled, being beaten or even hung up from metal hooks – while harrowing accounts have suggested some participants have allegedly been forced into bestiality, according to dozens of influencers.
‘Disturbing’ parties
Other sick events see women paid jaw-dropping amounts to perform degrading sex acts on a rich payee at “Porta Potty” parties that often involve defecation.
They have gained notoriety in recent years after being discussed on social media sites such as Reddit and X – but Radha says her team have been aware of the twisted events dating back as far as 2008.
She added: “The so-called Porta Potty’ parties are a disturbing example of how women are sometimes lured into degrading or dangerous situations under false pretences.”
Radha accused the legal system in Dubai and much of the Middle East of not doing enough to stop these parties and prosecute those responsible for any alleged attacks.
Dubai has come under scrutiny for it’s women’s rights violations in the past – a man’s consent is still required for marriage, divorce and even certain medical procedures.
Adultery is considered a major crime in the region with an individual being able to seek legal action against their partner if they suspect an extramarital affair.
Conviction for adultery in the UAE carries a minimum sentence of one year and it can be extended up to three years.
Dubai's strict laws
THE UAE is made up of seven emirates, of which Dubai is one.
Rules for travellers within the country have always been looked upon as draconian to Westerners heading to the hotspot.
However, changes to laws there have drastically altered the landscape for holidaymakers.
Boozing and living together outside marriage is now allowed in the United Arab Emirates after a historic relaxation of the country’s strict Islamic laws in 2020.
A person still must be at least 21 years old to buy alcohol legally in the UAE and anyone caught selling alcohol to someone deemed underage will be punished.
However, it can still only be consumed privately or in licensed public places.
In a major overhaul of the legal system, so-called honour killings were also criminalised, and there are harsher punishments for men who harass women.
The changes were part of the country’s drive to attract Western tourists and businesses despite the strict Sharia-based legal system.
Around 250,000 Brits live in the UAE, out of 8.4 million foreigners, and dozens have been targeted in recent years for breaking alcohol and drugs laws, or kissing in public.
While there is no official dress code as such, modesty is appreciated and advised, especially in public places.
Taking pictures or videos of the people, especially women and children without their consent is considered to be an invasion of privacy and you might be penalised or sent to jail.
If you openly criticise or mock or insult Dubai’s royal family, law, culture, and religion you risk the chance of being arrested.
These laws can put young women at risk of being caught up in a criminal case if they are invited into the country or to events by a married individual.
The men luring these women are often some of Dubai’s wealthiest or are very well connected with elite members of society.
Radha warns victims often don’t realise the control these people have and that corruption is rife.
It’s a complete cover-up essentially of what happens under the glitz and glamour and the nightlights of Dubai within its underbelly – and it really does put women at risk.
Radha Stirling Detained in Dubai
She says: “They [Dubai’s rich power players] can put them in prison if they like, without the woman or the victim having committed any crime whatsoever.
“They have complete control, and they exploit it because they can.
“It’s a complete cover-up essentially of what happens under the glitz and glamour and the nightlights of Dubai within its underbelly – and it really does put women at risk.
“Once they’re there, there’s no getting out of it, and they might find it very difficult to escape without violence or without being falsely reported for a crime and put away in prison.
“There are all sorts of powers that the influential people have in Dubai that they can exude upon their victims.”
Radha made her views clear as she blasted the criminal justice system for “100 per cent failing British women”.
The mystery still remains over the what truly happened to Ukrainian model Maria.
A Ukrainian model’s family fear she was lured into a party by several men before being found dumped on a roadside days laterEast2Westinstagram/@saintmullanTiktoker Saint Mullan also revealed she was offered to travel to Dubai[/caption]
GettyEddie Howe will be absent from the touchline against Manchester United[/caption]
Bruno Guimaraes’ strike helped Newcastle see off West Ham before beating Brentford after the international break.
Eddie Howe‘s men then thrashed Leicester 3-0 five days later and they’ll be hoping to build on that win this afternoon against a struggling Manchester United side.
But Howe is absent from the match today and SunSport can explain why.
Why is Eddie Howe not on the touchline vs Man Utd?
A statement read: “Eddie Howe will miss Newcastle United’s Premier League game against Manchester United on Sunday due to illness.
“The Magpies’ head coach was admitted to hospital late on Friday evening having felt unwell for a number of days.
“Medical staff kept Eddie in hospital overnight for further tests, which are ongoing.
“He is conscious and talking with his family, and is continuing to receive expert medical care.
“Everyone at Newcastle United extends their best wishes to Eddie for a speedy recovery, and further updates will follow in due course.”
Who will step in for Eddie Howe?
Jason Tindall and Graeme Jones will step in for Eddie Howe while the Newcastle boss recovers.
And Tindall gave an update on Howe while addressing the media on Friday morning.
The Toon assistant manager said: “He’s been really poorly. Bed-ridden. We’ve been in daily contact but it’s not affected any of the preparations.
“Still got a few days and hopefully he’ll be back for weekend.”
The TimesIn recent years, Cambridge has extended their lead in the men’s and women’s events[/caption]
The current Ford controversy follows the exclusion of four Cambridge University team members for pursuing PGCE degrees, which Oxford argued rendered them unable to row.
With the exception of significant interruptions during times of war, it has been an almost annual custom since 1856.
Since moving to its present location in 1845, the Boat Race has grown to become one of the most well-known events in British sport.
Since 2015, the women’s race has been run on the same Tideway course as the men’s race, which was originally competed in in 1927.
The Boat Race never fails to enthral viewers in the UK and throughout the world with its intense rivalries, top athletes, and thrilling on-water contests.
The records now stand at 87-81 for the Cambridge men and 48-30 for the Cambridge women after the Light Blues won both races in 2024.
As usual, we can anticipate intense competition in 2025 as Oxford looks to turn around their recent performance.
SunSport brings you all the information needed to know ahead of the big race.
When is Boat Race 2025 starting?
The boat race’s date varies each year, depending on tides, academic schedules, and other London events.
That being said, this year’s event will be held on Sunday, April 13, 2025.
There are four races in total, with two reserve events taking place after the women’s race and before the men’s.
The main events are listed below:
1.21pm: 79th Women’s Boat Race
1.36pm: Women’s reserve race: Osiris against Blondie
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