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The Sun
2 days ago
- Sport
- The Sun
Heartbroken trainer Warren Greatrex opens up on the tragic deaths of three stable lads at his yard in just four years
HEARTBROKEN trainer Warren Greatrex has bravely opened up on the deaths of three young workers at his yard - remembering them all as 'great lads'. The Lambourn-based jumps trainer has had to be a father figure and counsellor for those rocked by the suicides of Michael Pitt, David Thompson and, most recently, Billy Moffatt. 3 3 3 Pitt was just 19 and a promising amateur jockey when he took his own life in July 2021. Greatrex, who had just moved to his Rhonehurst yard at the time, described the soul-crushing experience as 'horrible'. Just seven months later, in February 2022, popular stable lad Thompson, 25, was found dead. The huge Chelsea fan, who was reported missing in the days prior, had written a letter saying the happiest days of his life had been working for Greatrex, who said the second death 'hit me so hard'. Then in May this year, Moffatt, who was in his early 20s, was found dead in his accommodation - the third death in just four years. Greatrex, a Cheltenham Festival-winning trainer, admitted he 'never thought' he would have to go through such shock and pain. He told Luck on Sunday on Racing TV the passing of all three and the devastating impact on those who worked alongside them every day was still 'raw'. And he said to know the lads you would have had absolutely no idea any were struggling to the extent they were. Explaining the magnitude of the losses and how best he tried to deal with it, an emotional Greatrex said: "I am the trainer so when I have a member of staff I am like a father figure as well. "Parents entrust you to look after their children. "I do feel responsible and all I am, and have been worried about, is everyone else. "I never thought I'd have a situation like this. "Even now it's tough to talk about - but in the situation all you are worried about is everyone else. "None of those three lads you would have had any idea that they would do that. "All three lads were really good young men. They were funny, good to be around. "Billy was a larger-than-life Newcastle lad who touched a lot of people because he was great fun to be around. "But there aren't any signs." Greatrex also spoke about the stresses and strains of working in the sport and how charity Racing Welfare have helped. He said while 'no words can describe the devastation' of the deaths, Racing Welfare were at his yard 'within minutes' to offer support to those coming to terms with the losses. His words pleading for more to be done with alcohol and drugs in racing came just days after champion jockey Oisin Murphy was charged with drink-driving ahead of his appearance at Reading Magistrates' Court on Thursday. Greatrex continued: "I think when you're surrounded by young people there will be times when there will be drinking, there will be drug use - that's just the way of the world now unfortunately. "Maybe there is a way that people can recognise it (drug use) and help people with what they can and can't do, or at least guide them in the right direction. You're Not Alone EVERY 90 minutes in the UK a life is lost to suicide It doesn't discriminate, touching the lives of people in every corner of society – from the homeless and unemployed to builders and doctors, reality stars and footballers. It's the biggest killer of people under the age of 35, more deadly than cancer and car crashes. And men are three times more likely to take their own life than women. Yet it's rarely spoken of, a taboo that threatens to continue its deadly rampage unless we all stop and take notice, now. That is why The Sun launched the You're Not Alone campaign. The aim is that by sharing practical advice, raising awareness and breaking down the barriers people face when talking about their mental health, we can all do our bit to help save lives. Let's all vow to ask for help when we need it, and listen out for others… You're Not Alone. If you, or anyone you know, needs help dealing with mental health problems, the following organisations provide support: CALM, 0800 585 858 Heads Together, HUMEN Mind, 0300 123 3393 Papyrus, 0800 068 41 41 Samaritans, 116 123 "I always find when a member of staff comes into the yard I am responsible. "But when they leave the yard I can't keep an eye on them and have their back or look after them all the time. "There will be times when members of staff come to speak to me or someone else senior like Tessa my wife, and of course we always do our best to help them. "But when they leave the yard I am helpless. "Still, I want them to be able to come to me. "I am a father and when my children go anywhere, or to other yards, you want them to be looked after and navigated in the right direction."
BBC News
3 days ago
- Health
- BBC News
Man with skin cancer urges Guernsey residents to wear sun cream
An islander diagnosed with malignant skin cancer has urged Guernsey residents to wear sun Thompson found out he had melanoma which had spread to his lymph nodes almost three years said he was told his five-year chance of survival was "about two-thirds" which was "a very sobering, make-you-sit-up-and-notice statistic".In 2024, the number of people diagnosed with skin cancer in Guernsey hit the highest level in five years. States figures showed rates of skin cancer on the island were significantly higher than those in England. Diane Mathews, strategic screening lead at Public Health Guernsey, said skin cancer rates on the island were about 89% higher than the south-west of England. She put it down to islanders "not taking enough care in the sun" and the outdoor lifestyle people often led."We need to make [sun protection] more culturally acceptable and habit-forming," she added. Figures 'very concerning' A wellbeing survey conducted by the States every five years found that in 2023, 45.5% of respondents had one or more episodes of sunburn in the last year, up from 44.2% in 17.7% had not heard of any of the signs of skin cancer - an increase of more than 5% on 2018 - the survey found 93.5% of people did routinely use at least one of the sun protection measures the survey Mathews said the figures overall were "very concerning". "It's the exact combination you don't want to see - we've got increasing skin cancer figures at the same time as people doing less sun-safe behaviours." 'Prevention over cure' Mr Thompson, who swims outdoors all year round, has called for a skin cancer support group to be set up on the island, as well as the introduction of sun cream dispensers. "I wear factor 50 sun cream every day and I always wear long sleeves to cover up," he urged others to "take those precautions... as there isn't always a cure".BBC Guernsey has launched a Sun Safety Campaign about early detection and prevention of skin cancers, and will speak to experts about the importance of sun safety over the summer months.
NDTV
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- NDTV
Ever Heard Of Massaman Curry? The Subtly Spiced Thai Dish With Indian Roots
Think Thai food, and chances are you are imagining something spicy, herby, and coconut-creamy. Maybe a fiery green curry or a bright red one bubbling in a wok. Thai cuisine is famous for being bold and balanced, with layers of flavour that keep you coming back for more. But have you ever come across a Thai curry that leans more cozy than spicy? One that feels like it could sit comfortably at the intersection of Bangkok and Mumbai? That's Massaman curry - a dish that quietly breaks the mould. It is nutty, rich, fragrant with cinnamon and cardamom, and surprisingly mellow for a Thai curry. Wondering what makes Massaman so different from its red, green, and yellow cousins? The answer lies in the spice cabinet and in Thailand's layered history. Also Read: 5 Different Thai Curry Recipes You Can Try At Home For One-Pot Rice Meals Massaman Curry: An Interesting Blend Of Traditions The word 'Massaman' is believed to be a transformation of 'Musalman', an archaic Persian term for 'Muslim'. Culinary historians trace the dish to the 17th-century Ayutthaya Kingdom, when Persian merchants, Indian Muslim traders, and Malay envoys brought new spices and cooking techniques into Thailand's royal court. According to Thai food expert David Thompson, the earliest known written recipe for Massaman curry appears in a poem by King Rama II of Thailand, celebrating its flavours. The dish is thought to have evolved under the influence of Persian diplomat Sheikh Ahmad Qomi, who became a prominent figure at the Ayutthaya court in the late 1600s. Anthropologist and food historian Su-Mei Yu also highlights the crucial role of Indian culinary influence, particularly the introduction of dry spices like cumin, cardamom, and cinnamon - ingredients rarely used in traditional Thai cooking prior to that era. Also Read: Red or Green Thai Curry? All You Have To Know About The Two Before Ordering Photo Credit: Pexels (Representative Image) What Makes Massaman Curry So Unique? Massaman is the kind of curry that is cozy, complex, and full of character. Its signature flavour comes from an unexpected, but beautifully balanced, blend of Thai and South Asian influences. 1. Warm, earthy aromatics: The dish includes spices like cinnamon, star anise, and clove, which are more common in Mughal or Middle Eastern stews than Thai cuisine. 2. Creamy coconut milk: It softens the boldness and adds a luxurious texture. 3. Toasted peanuts and potatoes: These ingredients feel more Persian than Southeast Asian, but blend seamlessly into the dish. 4. Gentle heat: The mild spice level makes it approachable for those who shy away from chili-heavy Thai curries. What Goes Into Making A Massaman Curry? Here is a look at what builds the depth and richness of this dish: Protein: Slow-cooked meat like beef or chicken, tender and full of flavour Potatoes and peanuts: A nod to Persian-style stews Massaman curry paste: A fusion of Thai ingredients (lemongrass, galangal) and Indian-Middle Eastern spices Coconut milk: Rich and mellow, it brings everything together Tamarind and palm sugar: For a gentle tang and subtle sweetness Click here for the detailed step-by-step recipe of Massaman curry (Thai-Muslim Curry). Also Read: Indian Cooking Tips: Make Curry Powder With Different Spices For All Indian Curries (Recipe Inside) Photo Credit: Pexels (Representative Image) Final Thoughts: Massaman curry may not shout like its chili-packed cousins, but that is exactly why it stands out. It is a dish shaped by centuries of trade routes, cultural mingling, and kitchen creativity. So go ahead, serve it with jasmine rice or warm roti, and enjoy a meal that is both familiar and refreshingly unexpected. Advertisement About Somdatta Saha Explorer- this is what Somdatta likes to call herself. Be it in terms of food, people or places, all she craves for is to know the unknown. A simple aglio olio pasta or daal-chawal and a good movie can make her day. For the latest food news, health tips and recipes, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and YouTube. Tags: Massaman Curry Thai Curry With Indian Spices Thai-Muslim Curry Massaman Curry History Indian Influence On Thai Food Show full article Comments
Vancouver Sun
17-06-2025
- Vancouver Sun
Hum: Thai food gets a street-style upgrade at these new Ottawa restaurants
5929 Jeanne D'Arc Blvd., Unit 5, 613-852-8111, Hours: Wednesday to Monday, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., closed Tuesday Prices: most dishes between $18 and $22 Access: no steps to front door or washrooms 205 Richmond Rd., 613-722-6464, Hours: Monday 4 to 10 p.m., Tuesday to Friday noon to 10 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Prices: most dishes between $18 and $22 Discover the best of B.C.'s recipes, restaurants and wine. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder. The next issue of West Coast Table will soon be in your inbox. Please try again Interested in more newsletters? Browse here. Access: no steps to front door or washrooms I'll bet that most adventurous culinary tourists have 'visit Thailand, pig out on street food' on their bucket lists. On the rise since the early 1960s, Thailand's street food culture comprises at least 150,000 vendors whose wares are so popular, convenient, and tasty that they've essentially displaced the habit of home cooking. 'Fewer and fewer Thais cook at home now,' Thai food authority David Thompson told Gourmet Traveller . As enticingly documented on YouTube clip after YouTube clip, Thai street vendors whip up dishes both familiar — pad Thai, satay, papaya salad — and lesser known — crab omelettes, prawns on glass noodles and more. You name it, they make it. The Michelin Guide even recognizes the best Thai street food vendors . Interested? I'd love to buy you some plane tickets and send you to Bangkok. But first, I need to win the lottery. Until then, I recommend that you head out to Westboro or Orléans. There you'll find newer Thai restaurants with 'street food' in their names. Both promise a wider range of Thai dishes than you'll find at their older, more established peers. Also, the new restaurants tout that culinary white whale — authenticity — which for some is synonymous with street food. I've had repeated enjoyable meals in the past month at Khao (Street Food Thailand and Bar), which opened May 1 in Westboro, where a long-closed Fiazza pizzeria location had been. After extensive renovation, the post-pizzeria space is festive, youthful and eye-catching — a far cry from the placid temple-vibe of old-school Thai restaurants. The narrow, open-kitchen eatery seats 42 inside plus 23 on a patio looking onto Richmond Road. Behind a six-seat bar, which hopefully will be licensed soon to dispense Thai-themed cocktails, some of those YouTube videos of Thai street food explorations play on a big TV. The dining room soundtrack consistently features bossa nova versions of pop and rock tunes. The restaurant's name, which means 'rice' in Thai, might lead you to think it's an offshoot of the well-established ByWard Market Restaurant Khao Thai. The two eateries are separate businesses, although the co-owners of Khao Street Food, Pusanisa Soon and executive chef Nathaporn Suwanachit, are related to some of Khao Thai's principals. I was excited by many dishes on Khao's extensive menu simply because they aren't available elsewhere in Ottawa. Even better, many were delicious. Foremost among them was Khao's boat noodle soup ($19), a generous bowl filled with sliced beef, dense, chewy, beefy meatballs, rice noodles, bean sprouts, fried pork crackling and more in a rich, thick, gravy-like broth. Khao soi ($22), the northern Thai single-serving soup made with a rich yellow curry-like broth, soft and crispy egg noodles, sour pickled mustard greens and our choice of sliced chicken or beef, was another hearty winner. I've also tried two shareable seafood-based noodle soups ($30), one spicy and the other sweeter and pinker. In both, the seafood was admirably cooked. Among appetizers, a thrilling standout was moo manao ($12) — a choice of sliced beef or pork, lettuce and mint in an intense, fiery and complex 'Thai spicy seafood sauce.' Lemongrass chicken wings ($12), crispy slices of pork belly ($12) and look chin tod meatballs ($10) were well-made, extra-savoury treats. I imagine them being even better with beer once it's available at Khao. Chicken satay skewers with homemade peanut sauce ($12), were more plump, juicy and flavourful than what I've had elsewhere, and they came, apparently as they do in Thailand, with toast on the side to sop up the sauce. Laab — the bracing Thai salad elevated by an acidic, savoury, herbaceous dressing — was made here with raw salmon ($22) rather than ground chicken or pork, apparently because that's trendy in Thailand. Waterfall beef ($22) embraced a similar flavour profile, although when I ordered it level-two spiciness on the five-point scale here, it was too subdued for my liking. At my next visit, my server discouraged me from ordering some level-four papaya salad with shrimp ($20). It turned out that level three was plenty fiery. I also liked a less incendiary mango salad ($20), including its crisp-fried anchovies. Some stir-fries here were familiar, others less so. The common Thai basil-enhanced stir-fry, in addition to being served as part of a shared, family-style dinner, also came in a more solo diner-friendly format, with rice on the side or underneath and a fried egg. Khao's renditions with pork, chicken, beef or seafood ($23) or deep-fried chicken ($25) packed a compelling flavour punch. We also enjoyed a less spicy, but still persuasive oyster sauce-based stir-fry ($21) in which deep-fried and then fried Japanese eggplant and chicken starred. Pad Thai ($21) was properly tangy rather than cloyingly sweet, and it was bougied up with a lattice of fried egg on top, plus crushed peanuts and chilies on the side. That said, I remain a devotee of the more funky and spicy pad kee mao ($20). Panang curry with beef ($22) was especially rich with dollops of coconut cream. Rather than the more usual yellow chicken curry, we chose a yellow curry-based chicken stir-fry ($22) that won us over. I've never had room for dessert at Khao, although mango with sticky rice and crème brûlée are available. Much further east, Chopp Chop Thai Street Food opened in an unassuming Orléans strip mall in August 2024. Taking its name from Thai slang for 'I love it, I really love it,' Chopp Chop is a more modest, unlicensed eatery of just a few tables. Takeout orders likely account for a lot of its sales. While I didn't love everything I had at Chopp Chop, its best dishes were good enough or interesting enough to make me look forward to return visits. Of Chopp Chop's large, single-serving soups, khao soi ($20.95), which starred a chicken leg in its vibrant broth, was fine. Less impressive were the tom yum soup with fish balls and barbecue pork ($20.95) and the wonton soup with barbecue pork ($19.95). I wanted more comforting vibes and better pork from both. Of two chicken appetizers, I preferred flavourful satay skewers ($12.95) to fried wings ($14.95), which, while massive and juicy, were under-seasoned. Better was Chopp Chop's rendition of 'Thai railway fried rice,' dubbed 'Crazy Train Fried Rice' ($18.95), which took its earthy flavour from dark soy sauce and was packed with chicken, egg, Chinese broccoli, tomato and onion. Chopp Chop's Thai basil stir-fry ($18.95), made with ground pork or chicken and served with rice and a fried egg, was one of its most satisfying dishes thanks to big flavours and an umami punch. Pad Kee Mao ($18.95), my preferred Thai noodles, also delivered the thrilling combo of spicy, savoury and salty flavours I craved. After one of my dine-in meals, house-made coconut ice cream was a perfect refreshment. While I preferred Khao's street food to Chopp Chop's, I hope that both inspire imitators. We need even more of those Thai dishes that, for now, are more easily seen on YouTube than in Ottawa. phum@ Want to stay in the know about what's happening in Ottawa? Sign up for the Ottawa Citizen's arts and life newsletter — Ottawa, Out of Office — our weekly guide to eating, listening, reading, watching, playing, hanging, learning and living well in the capital.
Scottish Sun
29-05-2025
- Scottish Sun
Two top cops accused of mocking a colleague's Irish accent in ‘grossly offensive' leaving video
The video also includes gun cops posing as travellers and repeated references to potatoes COP VID NASTY Two top cops accused of mocking a colleague's Irish accent in 'grossly offensive' leaving video Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) TWO distinguished police chiefs have been accused of mocking an Irish colleague's accent. Their 'joke' was part of a 'grossly offensive' video presentation to a retiring firearms chief inspector. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 2 Former West Midlands Police chief constable Sir David Thompson Credit: Alamy A skit shows the then-West Midlands Police chief constable Sir David Thompson and his deputy Alex Murray in uniform pretending to not understand his accent. They simply said 'Yes' to anything he asked for. The 2018 video also includes gun cops posing as travellers offering to do a driveway then pretending to break into a car. There are also repeated references to potatoes. One officer has a toothbrush in an unusual part of his anatomy while another pretends to be a kidnap victim. There is also an image of a topless Muslim woman serving alcohol to one of the firearms team and graphic sexual images of women. Sir David is a former lead on race and inclusion for the National Police Chiefs' Council while Mr Murray is now a boss at the National Crime Agency. The video was posted onto the WMP gun unit's Facebook page. Whistle-blower and ex-detective inspector Becky Kalam said: 'Had this material been sent on social media by a member of the public then they would have been arrested for a hate crime. 'But when it comes to the police themselves then nothing is done about it.' Breaking the Oath: Affair and corruption in the police force Ms Kalam quit after suing for sex discrimination, harassment and victimisation. She got more than £820,000 compo in 2023, which she donated to charity. West Midlands Police said: 'Ms Kalam has made multiple complaints', adding: 'Any further complaints will be reviewed.'
