Aisling Walsh: Autism must not be a ‘get out of jail free' card for men like Gregg Wallace
I haven't owned a TV in about 12 years, so I remained oblivious to the phenomenon that is the BBC's MasterChef until last week when host Gregg Wallace made headlines for all the wrong reasons.
In a flurry of news reports from the BBC itself, I learned he had been accused of sexual misconduct by more than 50 people, over a timespan of 19 years; that an internal investigation upheld 45 out of 83 of the incidents reported; that he had been fired from the BBC and that the upcoming season of MasterChef, filmed with him at the helm, was suspended pending review.
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The Irish Sun
an hour ago
- The Irish Sun
Who was Noel Stanton and how did the founder of the Jesus Army die?
Charismatic preacher turned cult leader Noel Stanton built a religious empire that hid horrific abuse behind colourful buses and a "Christian community" for nearly four decades. Born on Christmas Day 1926, this ordinary Baptist minister transformed into one of Britain's most controversial religious figures when he Advertisement 3 Noel Stanton preaching to his community Credit: BBC After his death in 2009, aged 82, shocking allegations emerged of systematic physical, sexual and psychological abuse spanning decades. A new BBC documentary now exposes the disturbing truth behind what one survivor describes as "a British cult hiding in plain sight." Who was Noel Stanton? In the 1970s, this firebrand preacher convinced dozens of idealistic Christians to hand over their homes , possessions, and even their children to create what he claimed would be "heaven on Earth " in rural Northamptonshire. Stanton established the Jesus Fellowship Church – better known as the Jesus Army – which grew from a small congregation at Bugbrooke Baptist Church into a nationwide movement with thousands of followers. Advertisement Read more on cults The bearded, authoritarian leader demanded total obedience from his flock. Members lived in communal houses, surrendered their savings to the group, and followed his increasingly bizarre rules about everything from diet to relationships . His preaching became increasingly focused on sexual "purity," with shocking footage from a 1993 documentary showing him urging followers to give their "genitals to Jesus". This obsession with controlling members' sexuality would later become central to many abuse allegations. Advertisement Most read in The Sun How did the Jesus Army founder die? Noel Stanton died on May 20, 2009, aged 82, after leading his controversial religious movement for nearly four decades. Despite building what appeared to be a thriving Christian community with its distinctive fleet of colourful Jesus Army buses and evangelistic street outreach, Stanton's final years were marked by increasing scrutiny of his leadership methods. Watch moment rape cult leader who told followers he was an alien called Great Shaman is arrested in Argentina By the time of his death, cracks were already appearing in the movement he'd created, though the full extent of the abuse within the Jesus Army wouldn't become public knowledge until years later. Stanton was buried at the fellowship's New Creation Farm in Nether Heyford, a sprawling community site that had been purchased with money donated by his followers. Advertisement Inside the controversial cult While presenting itself as a legitimate Christian church, the Jesus Army operated with all the classic hallmarks of a cult. Members were encouraged to cut ties with family and friends outside the group. Those living in communal "community houses" had to follow strict rules about everything from clothing to personal relationships. The group's radical "kingdom theology" taught followers that Stanton had special authority from God. Advertisement This created an environment where questioning the leader was seen as questioning God himself. Ex-members describe an atmosphere of intense control, with decisions about jobs , marriages and even what clothes to wear dictated by "elders" appointed by Stanton. The Jesus Army became known for its distinctive evangelism style, with members in brightly coloured jackets approaching strangers in town centres, offering hugs and inviting them to join community life. What appeared to outsiders as a quirky but harmless Christian group was, behind closed doors, implementing practices that damaged hundreds of lives. Advertisement 3 Aerial view of Sheepfold Grange, Northampton, Jesus Army Credit: Google Shock abuse claims Following Stanton's death, Children as young as two were routinely "disciplined" with birch canes in a practice known as "rodding", causing physical and psychological trauma that survivors still deal with today. The group conducted terrifying "exorcisms" on members thought to be possessed by demons, with some subjected to hours of shouting, physical restraint and psychological abuse under the guise of spiritual cleansing. Advertisement There were also several unexplained deaths within the community that former members claim weren't properly investigated at the time. Perhaps most disturbing were the widespread sexual abuse allegations. Multiple members, many of whom were children when the abuse occurred, have since come forward with accounts of sexual assault perpetrated by senior figures within the organisation. The cult's strict sexual teachings, which demanded celibacy from single members while simultaneously creating an environment where authority figures had unchecked power , created perfect conditions for predators. Advertisement 3 The Jesus Army commune in Northampton was the site of many abuses Credit: Jesus Fellowship Central Offices/Youtube The Redress Scheme The scale of abuse was so extensive that, following the official disbanding of the Jesus Army in 2019, the Jesus Fellowship Community Trust established a Redress Scheme to compensate victims. The scheme identified numerous abusers within the organisation, with victims ranging from young children to vulnerable adults who had been drawn into the community. By November 2021, when the scheme closed, hundreds of former members had come forward with claims of serious abuse suffered during their time in the Jesus Army. Advertisement Former members continue to speak out about their experiences, with many featured in the powerful new BBC documentary "Inside the Cult of the Jesus Army," which exposes the shocking truth behind what once appeared to be just an eccentric Christian group. The Jesus Fellowship Community Trust has acknowledged that "serious harm" was caused to many former members, particularly children, and has apologised for the "pain and suffering" experienced by those who lived under Stanton's leadership. What began as a dream of Christian community ended as a nightmare for hundreds of victims – a stark reminder of how easily religious devotion can be twisted into control and abuse when placed in the wrong hands.
The Irish Sun
3 hours ago
- The Irish Sun
Angela Scanlon tells our exclusive new podcast she peed herself on Strictly Come Dancing during ‘spicy' performance
FOR many celebs and famous faces, appearing on Strictly Come Dancing is top of their wish list . After years of turning the BBC show down, 5 Mum-of-two Angela Scanlon, 41, revealed what really happened behind out TV screens Credit: NPG PODCAST 5 While no accidents were shown on live TV, Angela confessed that she did pee herself during her Strictly stunt 5 Angela's two kids - Ruby, seven, and Marnie, three Before that, the Irish TV presenter was ''too afraid to be seen as not clever or funny or smart enough'', However, the mum-of-two gave it some thought and realised there were ''loads of things'' she could gain from the experience. For the 41-year-old, it was also about taking part in something purely for herself, after having her . She also has Ruby, seven, with husband Roy Horgan, 43, who works in tech. read more on celebrity But in hindsight, it, perhaps, wasn't the best of ideas, as her pelvic floor was ''not ready''. Now, a few years later, Angela has openly spoken about her experience of appearing on the cult favourite show as a mother who had an 18-month-old baby at the time. The mother-of-two shared what really took place behind our TV screens on our new parenting vodcast hosted by parenting influencer and comedian ''It was a lot. I didn't really anticipate it in my head,'' she told the hosts on Most read in Celebrity ''The old pelvic floor was under pressure.'' Angela - who also Angela Scanlon on Strictly success and saying no to fake tan (1) ''In France, I remember in my NCT group the first time around, there was a French woman and she was like, 'I'm going to the ''I was like, 'For what?' What happened?' ''She said, 'For my - up there'. ''It's obligatory post-birth in France that you have six weeks physiotherapy, internal physiotherapy.'' Strictly 2025 rumoured line-up Angellica Bell: A familiar face on British television, Angellica is a seasoned TV presenter known for her work on shows like CBBC and The One Show. She's no stranger to reality TV, having recently appeared on Celebrity Big Brother. Paul C. Brunson: The charismatic relationship expert and matchmaker from Married At First Sight UK, Paul is known for his insightful advice and warm personality. Swapping the sofa for the samba, he's tipped to bring a touch of class and intelligence to the competition. Dani Dyer: Rising to fame as the winner of Love Island in 2018, Dani has remained in the public eye with various TV appearances. The daughter of actor Danny Dyer, she's reportedly agreed to take part. Vicky Pattison: A reality TV stalwart who first found fame on Geordie Shore, Vicky has successfully transitioned into a presenter and author. Having supported her friend Pete Wicks on the show last year, it seems she's ready to put on her own dancing shoes. Ashley Cain: Former footballer and reality TV star from Ex on the Beach, Ashley has more recently become known for his incredible charity work and campaigning. Stacey Solomon: Known for her down-to-earth charm and successful BBC shows like Sort Your Life Out, fans are eager to see if she can translate her infectious energy to the ballroom. Georgia Toffolo: Best known as "Toff" from Made in Chelsea and for winning I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! in 2017, Georgia is a seasoned reality TV star. Thomas Skinner: The lively entrepreneur who became a fan favourite on The Apprentice in 2019, Thomas is known for his larger-than-life personality and catchphrase "Bosh!". Despite admitting to no dancing experience, he's reportedly "up for giving it his best shot." Tom Parker Bowles: The renowned food writer and critic, and son of Queen Camilla, is a surprising but intriguing name on the rumour list. A regular on MasterChef, it remains to be seen if his culinary precision translates to ballroom finesse. Sir Mo Farah: The legendary Olympic long-distance runner is considered a national treasure. Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink: The former Premier League football striker, famous for his time at Leeds and Chelsea, is another sporting name being linked. Harry Aikines-Aryeetey: Known as "Nitro" from the BBC's Gladiat o rs reboot and a former Team GB sprinter, Harry has already shown off some moves on the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special. Balvinder Sopal: The talented actress known for her role as Suki Panesar in EastEnders, Balvinder would follow a long line of successful soap stars on Strictly. Jake Brown: The winner of The Traitors series three, Jake's name has emerged as a potential contestant. Stefan Dennis : The actor, 66, has played six-times married Ramsay Street lothario Paul Robinson since the first episode in 1985 and now the soap is coming to an end, his schedule is clear. While no accidents were shown on live TV, Angela confessed that she did pee herself during her ''I think I would've peed myself anyway, to be honest. But yeah, I did. I remember doing rehearsals for the Charleston and it was quite a ''There was a lot of hopping as there is but ours was particularly bouncy,'' said Angela who partnered with and finished sixth . ''I did the rehearsal and I remember Carlos being like, 'What happened there?' ''And I was too embarrassed - cause we were three weeks in at that point and I didn't know him well enough to be like, 'I just wet myself'. ''I was also so afraid because I was like, 'Oh my God, what if this happens on the show?' ''Because it's a lot to, like, manage that while also managing your steps and also managing all that stuff. ''But I will say, you know, it's pretty solid now,'' she chuckled. 5 The Irish TV presenter also revealed why her children are not allowed to have smartphones Credit: npg podcast Not allowing her children smartphones During the episode, Angela also revealed why there's a smartphone ban at her home. 'Ruby stamping her feet and telling me that her best mate has one does not mean I'm going to get her a phone if I believe that she is better off as a human without one,' Angela said. 'I'm OK with being the bad bi**h. "I'm actually fine with her hating me if it makes sense in the long run for her not to have one. I'm still the parent.' Angela addded that she knows her own phone use impacts her. 'It's affected my concentration. "I will be reading a book and think: 'Oh, I've read three pages and have no idea what it said.' "There's a lack of "My plan is to hold off for as long as possible.' 'I think our generation is justifying it because we love it. "I don't want to let it go. It's the conditioning. "You're going: 'Oh my god, how am I going to tell her she's not allowed it when I'm sitting there refreshing. "It requires us all to make changes.' 5 Angela partnered with Carlos Gu and finished sixth during her Strictly stint in 2023
The Irish Sun
5 hours ago
- The Irish Sun
Neighbours legend sparks rumours he's joining UK soap after bosses savagely axed show for a second time
NEIGHBOURS legend Alan Fletcher has revealed he wants to land a TV role in the UK and would love to "gatecrash" EastEnders. The 68-year-old Aussie soap veteran is currently focused on his music career and a 34-date UK and Ireland tour. Advertisement 4 Alan Fletcher is concentrating on his music Credit: Lime Tree Music 4 He had a cameo on EastEnders in 2022 Credit: BBC However, he's also on the hunt for a UK agent that can bag him a role on the box on our shores after The long-running soap has come to an end after Amazon MGM Studios decided against making more episodes beyond 2025. Speaking exclusively to The Sun, Alan says: "Like a lot of Aussie actors, I would crave to come and work in the UK. And I'm looking to try and find myself a UK agent because I think the UK makes some of the best television in the world. "I think in terms of comedy, which I love to be involved in, the Brits are like the Australians. We do understand satire and so there's incredibly sharp and witty television made here. Advertisement READ MORE ON ALAN FLETCHER "And in terms of drama, the thing I really love about being in the UK is seeing how older actors, and I put myself in that bracket now, how older actors really get a good run on television and film. And some of the best UK actors, of course, are the older contingents." Kellie Bright's starstruck Linda Carter was lamenting Neighbours coming to an end Regarding a possible return to the show, Alan says: "That would be enormous fun as well, just to sort of gatecrash EastEnders. I actually went in and filmed a little skit of them a few years ago, which was enormous fun. Yeah, so there's all sorts of doors opening." Advertisement Most read in News TV But for now music takes precedence. He explains: "Now that I can dedicate myself to music, it takes an enormous amount of time to write and produce and record music and then to plan tours and to get out on the road. So, you know, it's an exhausting job." I collapsed after being rescued from terrifying drowning on Neighbours set, reveals Karl Kennedy star Alan Fletcher "I mean, this tour I'm on now around the UK, this is 34 venues. It's the length and breadth of the country. The logistics alone are incredible to plan, not to mention ticket selling. "So it's a very testing experience, and it's one I embrace and want to do more of." Advertisement The Karl Kennedy star is on the promo trail for his latest single, Back To School , a poignant ballad on how to nurture a loving relationship. "The title was about what I've learnt in studying philosophy, that love is something you can't take for granted, you have to really look at it," says Alan. "I mean, that's a bit of a cliche, but a lot of people don't spend the time. So it's really saying, let's get back to school and learn how to love. "It's a very musical, laid-back track, and it gets a great reaction from people." Advertisement Both Alan and wife Jennifer went back to school, as it were, when they attended a lecture on love by philosopher Alain de Botton that helped to improve their own relationship. "It was quite transformative for us, because it reminds us that perfect love is a bit of an 18th century creation," says Alan. "And in reality, we all love each other's flaws, rather than trying to change each other. "And once we heard that, and kind of accepted that, and went, 'yes, absolutely, that's what it is'. So now if either one of us in the relationship do something that the other one would normally think is annoying or troublesome, now we look at it and go, 'oh, it's adorable that you do that'. 4 Alan has played Karl Kennedy since the mid-90s Credit: Courtesy of Freevee Advertisement 4 The tour comprises of 34 dates and is underway now Credit: Lime Tree Music "So just accepting that we are who we are, and trying to change people, mold them to be the perfect human being, is a waste of time." At the tail end of last year Alan also released a classic slice of Americana in Tell 'Em, a duet with Jennifer that tells the tale of lost love. "It really is the first cut, the deepest I suppose, that notion of the first relationship you have and how it kind of never leaves you, even though you break up and move on with your life and you have other loves, there's some little tiny part of you that's still wishes that somehow you've been able to work it out all those years ago. Advertisement "So essentially just saying, look, I know we'll never be together, but I just think of you all the time, or in flashes." Both tracks will be joining Alan on his tour which is taking place now and runs until September. Alan Fletcher's 2025 UK Tour and Ireland BACK TO SCHOOL UK TOUR DATES: July 22 – The Bedford – Balham July 23 – Studio 6 – Maidstone July 24 – The Factory Live – Worthing July 25 – The Attic – Southampton July 26 – The Steam and Whistle – Cheltenham July 27 – The Clarence Hall – Crickhowell July 29 – The Exeter Phoenix – Exeter July 30 – The Poly – Falmouth July 31 – The Hen and Chicken – Bristol Aug 1 – The Globe – Cardiff Aug 2 – St George's Hall – Bewdley Aug 3 – The Stables – Milton Keynes Aug 6 – The Portland Arms – Cambridge Aug 7 – The Garage – Norwich Aug 8 – The Witham Public Hall – Witham Aug 9 – The King Alfred Phoenix Theatre – London Aug 12 – The Sugar Club – Dublin Aug 13 – The Spirit Store – Dundalk Aug 14 – The Black Box – Belfast Sep 8 – The Gorleston Pavilion – Gorleston-on-Sea Sep 9 – The International – Leicester Sep 10 – Newhampton Arts Centre – Wolverhampton Sep 11 – Southside – Lincoln Sep 12 – The Yard – Manchester Sep 13 – Arts Club – Liverpool Sep 17 – The Wardrobe – Leeds Sep 18 – The Georgian Theatre – Stockton-on-Tees Sep 19 – Pocklington Arts Centre – East Yorkshire Sep 20 – Arts Centre Washington – Sunderland Sep 21 – The Voodoo Rooms – Edinburgh Sep 23 – The Blue Lamp – Aberdeen Sep 24 – Centre for Contemporary Arts – Glasgow Sep 25 – The Empress Ballroom – Mexborough Sep 26 – Castle & Falcon – Birmingham Buy tickets
