Latest news with #MattJackson
BBC News
7 days ago
- General
- BBC News
Wildlife trust tells dog owners to keep pets on leads at reserves
Dog owners have been warned to keep their pets on leads at nature reserves after a series of incidents where dogs have attacked people and Wildlife Trust for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire put out the caution after a sheep was killed by a loose dog at Pegsdon Hills nature reserve in Bedfordshire, despite signage stating dogs must be kept on leads at all times. It added the Nene Valley Special Protection Area (SPA), which covers the Nene Wetlands, Summer Leys and Titchmarsh nature reserves, has employed an officer to engage with dog walkers. Matt Jackson, the trust's conservation director, said: "No-one deserves to feel fear at work or on a nature reserve." "Our conservation officers are simply doing their job and visitors are enjoying these special places," he added. Other incidents include a small dog being killed by a larger dog at Trumpington Meadows in Cambridge, a person being bitten by a dog at Beechwoods Nature Reserve near Cambridge and a reserve officer injured by a dog at Waresley Wood. A study carried out in the Nene Valley found dogs let off the lead were four times more likely to cause a disturbance to dogs on leads. It also found that out of 619 incidents, dogs off the lead were the most common cause of bird disturbances and there had been areas on the reserve where birds had not nested despite it being a good habitat. When sharing the news of the sheep found dead at the Pegsdon Hills reserve, Mr Jackson said it caused distress to staff members. He said: "It's the latest in a line of similar incidents and has caused distress for staff members who work hard to care for these animals and the reserve."He said while responsible dog walkers were welcome, the reserves were for wildlife and people to enjoy. He said: "We're wildlife conservationists and we love all animals, many of us have dogs of our own... our rules state clearly that all nature reserves - aside from a small number of designated areas - are for dogs on leads only, at all times of the year." Follow East of England news on X, Instagram and Facebook: BBC Beds, Herts & Bucks, BBC Cambridgeshire, BBC Essex, BBC Norfolk, BBC Northamptonshire or BBC Suffolk.
Yahoo
10-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
The Young Bucks have come a long way with AEW, but the ride isn't over yet
For Matt and Nick Jackson, their legacy as the Young Bucks goes far beyond the squared circle. As they prepare to walk into Arlington's Globe Life Field on Saturday for AEW All In: Texas, they'll have yet another moment to reflect on just how far they've come. Less than 10 years after packing more than 10,000 fans into the inaugural All In — an independent show in Chicago that became the catalyst for the birth of AEW — more than double that audience is expected to shuffle into the promotion's biggest North American show to date this weekend. Advertisement 'From running that first event several years ago in Chicago, when getting 10,000 people into an arena sounded impossible, to seeing it grow into an annual stadium show, where this year we'll have 20,000-plus fans in attendance, it really does blow my mind,' Matt Jackson tells Uncrowned. 'I'm humbled to have had the pleasure to take part in this movement from the very beginning. To be able to say not only was I there, but I helped it all happen, that'll probably be my biggest wrestling legacy. I get to perform on the show I helped create, in the company I am a founding father of, a company that has succeeded so much more than even I could have ever imagined, company that forever will be called Elite, long after I'm gone.' Six years into its tenure, AEW has worked through the growing pains that came with starting up a new promotion. Weekly television is now humming along, and AEW has had one of the best stretches in the promotion's history. That's quite different from the early days of AEW, which Nick refers to lovingly as a 'mom and pop setting.' 'I remember early on, we'd help set up the merchandise stands and help tear it down,' Nick says. 'Now, of course, we have an entire department for merchandise, so it's so funny to see how things have changed.' Advertisement At the beginning, AEW was finding its way, Matt adds. 'For many of us, we'd never worked on a weekly television show. We weren't necessarily all polished. But watching old shows now, there really is a bit of charm to that. It made the show feel a bit young and renegade,' he says. 'There were a ton of wrestlers who hadn't yet been exposed to that large of an audience, so there was a freshness to it. Some of the first episodes could be all over the place. I think we were figuring out which formula worked best. But man, the excitement was incredible.' AEW has evolved over time, taking lessons from wrestling history, establishing firm international partnerships, and carving paths that few could have anticipated at the start. Advertisement And while stars have come and gone since the very early days, the two men at the top of Saturday's card — Jon Moxley and 'Hangman' Adam Page — have been AEW staples since near the very beginning. Page was one of AEW's very first signings, an Elite holdover who had all the tools to be the face of the promotion. Moxley was a shock debut at Double or Nothing, the promotion's inaugural pay-per-view event in 2019, immediately adding even more credibility to the top of the card as an established main event talent. 'Jon was one of the first people who came over and it was truly shocking at the time. He's been a locker room leader the entire time, and has worked so hard from the beginning,' Matt says. 'You talk about consistency, and drive, you're talking about Jon. Even times when we weren't able to be around, Jon was always there to help guide the crew. I don't think he gets enough credit for what he's done to make AEW thrive.' Advertisement Moxley has been one of the most consistent top talents in the promotion and is often referred to as a stabilizing force both in the ring and behind the scenes. Nick emphasizes Moxley's contributions alongside the Death Riders, calling them the 'glue' that's helped hold AEW together over the last year. 'Moxley is the MVP and he's always been the playmaker when we're down a few points. You can always rely on him to get us a bucket,' Nick says. 'Meanwhile, Adam Page is our main character. When he's on top and when he's the main event, the show just feels right. He's grown so much as a performer and he's literally grown as a character in front of the wrestling world. At the very first All Out, fans didn't want to see him be the champion then, and now they're begging for it. When you're able to change the fans' perspective on things like that, you know you're damn good.' Hangman, in Matt's eyes, 'was always supposed to be the main character of AEW.' From the beginning, it was clear Page had the chops to be world champion. The run to his first taste of heavyweight gold was expertly curated. And only Page could follow that up with easily the best long-term men's storytelling in the promotion's history. Advertisement His journey has been scintillating, from a broken cowboy to a lunatic obsessed with anyone who'd ever wronged him. Eventually he came out on the other side, determined to not just win the title, but also be the face of the company. 'His attention to detail, his patience and discipline not to rush things, and his ability to captivate an audience are all on another planet. I think he stands alone in that field. He's one of the chosen ones,' Matt says. 'Every now and again, someone comes along that fans imprint themselves on. That person becomes 'their guy.' I don't have that. My brother doesn't have that. We're easier to root against. Hangman has it. And I think the fact that he is an AEW original really resonates with our audience. It's almost like we're a sports franchise that luckily drafted a star player. There's extra pride that he's only always worn our jersey.' Moxley and Page have all the tools to put on another instant classic in their AEW World Championship Texas Deathmatch at All In, taking the lead on what's expected to be the promotion's best total show in its history. Advertisement The event will also include the Young Bucks putting their onscreen Executive Vice President titles on the line against Swerve Strickland and Will Ospreay, where a loss would block both from world title shots for a year. The match brings arguably the best tag team in the world into the ring with two of the most talented individual wrestlers. The fallout will be fascinating, potentially drawing to a conclusion the dynamic that has seen the Bucks seemingly call their own shots as the promotion's onscreen EVPs. Nick says they've always known how to get under people's skin, to the point where, 'people actually think we're bad human beings because we play these characters pretty dang good.' He says playing the EVP characters has been a blast, and is maybe the most fun that he's had since AEW started. Advertisement 'It really has been incredibly fun leaning in on all the things people accuse us of being. I remember back in the beginning, arguing with someone that going public about having a major job title in the company is probably a bad idea if we want to be cheered ever again as wrestlers,' Matt says. 'So using it in this way all these years later has definitely made the most sense. It's for sure helped us garner more heat, and given us a new tool to work with the last couple of years on screen. I think there's so much left to explore too, shall we have that opportunity to do so.' Despite a catalog of matches, moments, and being considered one of the all-time great tag teams even before AEW's formation, Matt says it feels like the last six years have informed what they're most known for. 'It feels like all of the stuff that happened before AEW was just leading to everything we're now doing,' Matt says. Advertisement 'In wrestling, most people are insatiable and always looking for more. Am I like everyone else? I like to think I feel fulfilled and satisfied. That I can sit back on a recliner with a cup of coffee, and tell old war stories to the kids, and have a full stomach. But then at the same time, I still have this drive in me to be the best, and have the most incredible matches every time I'm booked. Clearly, there's still something deep in me that wants to prove something.' For a tag team that's done virtually everything — and individuals who can hang their hat on being involved in the development, launch, and success of AEW — the Young Bucks' creative fulfillment continues to come from an involvement in the promotion and weekly conversations with AEW CEO Tony Khan. 'We collaborate with him all the time and I think he enjoys it almost as much as we do,' Nick continues. The passion for the business is overflowing for the Bucks. Matt says he has ideas and thoughts around spots in matches, lines in a promo, or a storyline beat that he has to get out of his brain — or else he becomes so consumed he can't sleep. Advertisement At the root of their motivation is continuing to perfect a craft that they can be proud of. Both Matt and Nick echo sentiments of creating a body of work that they can look back on and be happy about, and something their families can appreciate as well. 'I still feel like a kid too, and getting the approval of my parents is more meaningful than 10,000 strangers,' Matt says. 'All of those reasons are why I'm always trying to step up and reinvent myself. We're always trying to change up our look, and presentation. This time we decided to come back looking different — both leaner, and moving younger. It's an ever-evolving business, and next month will be 21 years as wrestlers, so we don't plan on being left behind.' Matt and Nick's time as certified bad guys could be over at the weekend's conclusion. Or maybe their evolution will continue to change the business in a way that's completely in line with the Young Bucks' career trajectory. Advertisement For this moment in time, though, and before the weekend whisks away another night of magic, the Bucks are grateful for the ride thus far. 'Words can't even describe the rollercoaster it's been for the last six-plus years,' Nick says. 'I think when you're in the middle of it, you don't realize how big it is. But I'm so very blessed to have had this opportunity.'
Glasgow Times
22-06-2025
- Sport
- Glasgow Times
EPL side 'set' to enter bidding for Rangers' Nicolas Raskin
The Belgian enjoyed a stellar 2024/25 campaign, impressing with his midfield displays and contributing to 16 goals in 48 appearances. His future has been a major topic of discussion in recent weeks. Read more: And Wolves, who finished 16th in England's top flight last season, have been closely tracking Raskin's progress for over 18 months, claims RecordSport. It is said that they are 'set' to enter the bidding for the 24-year-old. Matt Jackson, who was recently appointed director of player recruitment and development at Molineux, reportedly believes that the Rangers man is ready to handle the step up in level from the Scottish top flight to the Premier League. Raskin currently has two years left on his Ibrox deal. "Look, I've been enjoying myself this season and it's not so often that you can enjoy yourself in a club," he said towards the end of last campaign. "I'm really happy here. I've got two more seasons in my contract. So as long as the club wants me, I'll be here and then we'll see what happens."
Yahoo
21-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Wolves promising 'fresh insight and strength' ahead of new season
Wolves have appointed Domenico Teti as the club's director of professional football. Teti joins with a wealth of experience across Europe and the Middle East, and will work to improve the strategy and planning around professional and first-team football. Advertisement 'I am truly excited to join the Wolverhampton Wanderers family and to feel the passion of its fans, who embody the soul and spirit of this historic club. It is an honour to be part of something so special,'' he said. READ MORE: Championship clubs told to pay £1m for ex-Birmingham City wonderboy READ MORE: Birmingham City have created a new role for Lukas Jutkiewicz after retirement 'I look forward to working with (executive chairman) Jeff (Shi), (head coach) Vitor (Pereira), and the rest of the staff and players, contributing to the development of a passionate, forward-thinking, and proactive football culture.' Advertisement Matt Jackson takes on the newly-defined position of director of player recruitment and development. He will work closely with Teti and other senior executives, but will also be focused on broader club matters, including the academy and Wolves Women. The football leadership team also includes Phil Hayward, who leads the club's integrated approach to sports science, psychology, player health and wellbeing, as Wolves' newly-appointed director of performance. Long-serving Matt Wild continues in his role as director of football operations and administration, overseeing football operations, financial efficiency of the football business and governance matters. Max Fitzgerald completes the team as PR and communications director. 'I'm pleased to welcome Domenico to Wolves,'' said Shi. 'His international background and experience at senior levels will bring fresh insight to the club and strengthen the structure supporting head coach Vitor Pereira and the first-team environment.'
Scottish Sun
18-06-2025
- Automotive
- Scottish Sun
Our rental car burst into FLAMES while we were sat in traffic – we escaped by the skin of our teeth
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A COUPLE whose hire car unexpectedly caught fire within minutes while on holiday now want answers from the rental company - who they claim appeared "completely unbothered" by the frightening ordeal. Jenna Willcox, 41, and her partner, Matt Jackson, 39, were driving near Killorglin, a small town in County Kerry, Ireland, when their rented Peugeot 3008 began to emit white smoke and a terrible smell. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 4 A couple's hire car burst into flames while they were on holiday in Ireland Credit: Matt Jackson 4 A rented Peugeot 3008 started smoking and then suddenly ignited, sparking a nightmare for the holidaymakers Credit: Matt Jackson 4 It left the car reduced to a burnt-out shell Credit: Matt Jackson 4 Burnt-out wreck of hire car leaves couple demanding answers from rental company Credit: Matt Jackson Sensing a major issue, they quickly got out of the car and pulled most of their belongings out with them, including their suitcases. Moments later, the car was completely engulfed in flames, leaving them stunned. 'It literally happened within minutes, we were sitting in traffic outside this little town and smoke started coming out of the bonnet,' said Jenna, speaking exclusively to Sun Motors. 'It was pouring out, it was the worst thing I've ever smelt. I don't know what was on fire, but it smelled like hell.' The couple ran up the road to a nearby petrol station, watching in shock as the car they'd been sitting in was reduced to a burnt-out husk. 'I keep thinking, if the lock hadn't worked or if we hadn't been able to get away in time. 'Luckily, people around us were able to drive away - but what if we'd been inside a tunnel or stuck in traffic?' After the ordeal, the couple managed to get a bus back to their accommodation, expecting Enterprise, the company they'd hired the car from, to provide assistance - perhaps with an offer of compensation or a replacement car. But Jenna says their response was slow and disorganised, with the company completely unprepared to manage the situation. She claims they were passed around and transferred to a vehicle recovery company, despite there being "nothing to recover." Cars & 30-tonne HGV collide in high-speed pile-up – but is all as it seems 'We literally spent the whole of the next day on the phone to Enterprise to get them to send us another vehicle - we thought the least they could do was send us another vehicle.' After speaking to Jenna, Sun Motors reached out to Enterprise. A spokesperson for the company said: 'At Enterprise we aim to always deliver high-quality customer service. 'If incidents occur, we maintain consistent communication with the customer during and post-incident to provide ongoing support and keep them informed of progress. 'We believe that our actions in this case followed all necessary steps to resolve the situation.' However, Jenna and Matt vehemently disagree with Enterprise's assessment. They claim that instead of offering immediate assistance, Enterprise told them they needed to return to the nearest outlet - some 100 miles away - despite the fact they no longer had a means of transport. How to deal with a vehicle fire If your car catches fire or emits smoke while driving, stop safely, evacuate all passengers and call emergency services. Leave the vehicle quickly, as electrical systems might fail. Use an extinguisher on small external fires only if safe, but don't put yourself at risk. Avoid opening the bonnet as it could worsen the fire, move away from traffic lanes, stand behind barriers if possible and keep a safe distance due to risks like toxic fumes, tyre explosions, or flying parts. Inform emergency services about the vehicle type and any flammable cargo, especially if it's an electric vehicle, as these require special handling. Most of all, prioritise your safety over saving the car. It was only after failing to find a taxi and making several further phone calls, they claim, that an employee eventually drove a replacement car to them. Enterprise disputes this claim, saying that it promptly offered transport to the customers. "It seemed like they had absolutely no contingency plan in place,' added Jenna. 'Even if the car had broken down, you would think they'd have some sort of plan to bring us one. 'The whole thing with Enterprise, the whole way through, they were really bad at communication. 'They didn't apologise or ask us how we were - they didn't seem to care about any of that.' Jenna and Matt continued to chase a response from Enterprise after the incident happened in September. 'Eventually, they got to the stage where they're like, 'Okay, we need to do an investigation into what happened.' 'But it was all from that perspective; what they were interested in was, was it our fault?' Jenna says they never explained or shared any details about the evidence they had - pointing out it was impossible to figure out what caused the fire since the car was completely destroyed. 'At this point, we were terrified, like, what if they think it's our fault? They could prosecute us or take us to court. There was no explanation or communication on what the consequences might be.' Eventually, Enterprise concluded their investigation, finding that Jenna and Matt were not at fault. However, much to the couple's frustration, that was the end of the matter. When they contacted the Ombudsman group European Car Rental Conciliation Service (ECRCS), they said they were told by Enterprise that there was a complex investigation ongoing involving many departments. When the couple asked Enterprise about this directly, they claimed the company did not respond - which meant ECRCS said they were unable to act. Eight months later, Zurich, Enterprise's insurance company, finally offered them £600 in compensation, later increasing it to £900. However, this failed to account for the ruined holiday, emotional distress and time spent resolving the issue. 'Sometimes when I drive home from work, it does go through my mind. 'You'll sometimes get a weird smell, and you don't know if it's your car or someone else's car, and it does go through my mind - what if it happens again? 'Before this fire, I would have just been like, 'Don't be ridiculous, a car can't just catch on fire.' But now I know that it does happen for no reason. That does go through my mind, which is pretty horrible.'
