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In the quiet town of Iseyin, about 200 km north‑west of Lagos, shaded courtyards and narrow lanes have become the beating heart of Nigeria’s iconic aso‑oke textile industry. Under makeshift sheds, weavers operate wooden looms that have remained largely unchanged for generations. Recent years have seen a surge in demand for the thick, multicoloured fabric, driven by the Nigerian diaspora and an expanding international appetite for African fashion. Yet the craftsmen and women of Iseyin staunchly oppose the introduction of machines, arguing that the hand‑woven process is essential to the cloth’s distinctive texture and cultural value. The craft now serves as an economic lifeline. Young Nigerians—including university graduates—are flocking to Iseyin to learn the trade, attracted by the promise of a steady income. One such convert, Waliu Fransisco, abandoned a career as a Lagos nightclub singer a decade ago to master the loom. At 34, he says, “I now earn a decent living from weaving aso‑oke and I’m satisfied.” Aso‑oke, literally meaning “cloth from the up‑country,” has become a staple in Nigeria’s fashion scene, appearing in ceremonial attire, contemporary streetwear, and even high‑profile outfits such as the wrapper and shawl worn by Meghan Markle during her 2024 visit to Nigeria with Prince Harry. Traditionally, the fabric was produced from locally sourced cotton or silk, with threads hand‑spun, dyed, and woven in limited colour palettes. Today, most weavers use loom‑ready yarns imported primarily from China, allowing for a broader spectrum of hues while preserving the labor‑intensive hand‑weaving technique. Each loom requires meticulous arrangement of narrow, tightly patterned strips that are later sewn together to form the wider cloth used for garments and accessories. “This is what Iseyin is known for,” says 35‑year‑old weaver Kareem Adeola, echoing the sentiment of a community that views the craft as a direct inheritance from its forebears. As global fashion houses and consumers continue to seek authentic African textiles, the artisans of Iseyin stand at the crossroads of tradition and market opportunity, proving that cultural heritage can thrive alongside modern demand.

A heartfelt tribute has been paid to Dame Jenni Murray, a renowned figure in British radio, known for her exceptional broadcasting skills and generosity of spirit. The author recalls her kindness and guidance when they appeared as a guest on Woman's Hour in the 1990s, discussing their novels on topics such as motherhood and dieting. Dame Jenni shared valuable insights into the art of radio broadcasting, including the importance of not discussing the main topic in the green room to save the best lines for the show. She also emphasized the need to turn off mobile phones before entering the studio, a lesson she occasionally forgot herself, much to the frustration of her producers. Her warm and approachable nature made her a beloved figure, both on and off the air. The author fondly remembers her staying on for a glass of wine in the BBC canteen after shows and her remarkable charity work, particularly with the Young Oncology Unit at the Christie hospital in Manchester. Dame Jenni's infectious humor and big-heartedness inspired others to get involved in charitable initiatives, leading to successful fundraising dinners and a significant impact on the community.

After serving in Afghanistan, Army Ranger Jesse Gould developed PTSD and turned to drinking to cope. Seeking an alternative to lifelong medication, Gould discovered psilocybin in Peru, which significantly alleviated his symptoms.Gould founded the Heroic Hearts Project, a non-profit hosting ayahuasca and psilocybin retreats for veterans. The organization has helped over 1,500 veterans and their spouses without any psychotic episodes.State lawmakers are taking notice of psilocybin's potential health benefits, with Colorado, New Mexico, and Oregon legalizing it for therapeutic use. At least eight states are considering similar legislation, despite some arguing that the FDA should approve it first.Research suggests psilocybin can be safe and effective when administered with psychological support. A 2025 study found it was associated with symptomatic improvement in adults with PTSD. Clinical psychologist Joseph Zamaria notes that psilocybin can disrupt the brain's default mode network, allowing people to detach from harmful narratives.However, some experts, like Albert Garcia-Romeu, are skeptical about state-led legalization without FDA approval, citing potential unknown risks. Gould counters that the suicide rate among veterans is a pressing issue, with 35 deaths per 100,000 people in 2023, more than double the general population's rate.

The play 'Dear Jack, Dear Louise' presents a refreshing take on love in the digital age, set against the backdrop of World War II. This epistolary story revolves around Jack, a military doctor, and Louise, a dancer aspiring to Broadway, who are brought together by family members hoping they might make a match. Written by Ken Ludwig in 2019, the play is a delightful romantic comedy that unfolds through letters, capturing the intimacy and anticipation of a bygone era. The narrative progresses from a formal courtship to a genuine relationship, all without the characters having met, as their first date is continually deferred due to circumstances. The production shines with its simplicity, featuring two actors delivering remarkably honest performances from opposite sides of the stage. This setup fosters an incorrigible warmth for the characters as they strive for happiness amidst the turmoil of war. Directed by Simon Reade, the play balances sweetness, humor, and poignancy, leaning into its nostalgic spirit. While a twist towards the end attempts to introduce unnecessary emotional tension, the overall story remains an irresistible heart-warmer. The play effectively conveys the romance of letters, highlighting the intimacy and physicality of handwritten communication. 'Dear Jack, Dear Louise' is set to run at the Arcola theatre, London, until May 2, offering audiences a chance to experience this charming and moving theatrical production.

Sting, the renowned musician, has returned to his roots in a new production of his musical The Last Ship, this time in Australia. The musical, which premiered in 2014, has been revitalized with new scenes, music, and updated characters. Sting takes on the leading role of foreman Jackie White, who navigates the threat of the shipyard's closure while grappling with his failing health. He is joined on stage by reggae icon Shaggy, who brings warmth to the role of the Wallsend Ferryman.The musical draws on Sting's personal experiences growing up in Wallsend, northern England, where the shipyard dominated the skyline. The story explores themes of mortality, labor, and identity, as well as the tension between tradition and progress. The shipyard becomes a symbol of a communal world built on shared pride and purpose. While the musical resonates with contemporary concerns around the erosion of secure work and the crucial power of collective action, it sometimes leans toward cloying sentimentality.The production features a striking and immersive set, designed by 59 Studio, with towering metal scaffolding and the imposing bow of a vessel. The digital projections blend seamlessly with the physical scenery, creating a unique and captivating visual experience. The cast, including Lauren Samuels and Joe Caffrey, delivers strong performances, with the choral moments being particularly powerful and moving.Despite some criticisms of a slow start and a rushed ending, The Last Ship remains a heartfelt and sincere production. Sting's performance is understated yet authentic, and Shaggy brings his signature charm to the role. The musical runs at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre's Glasshouse Theatre until May 3rd.

The evening’s television line‑up offers a mix of heartfelt competition, natural‑history wonder and high‑profile live events, giving viewers plenty of reasons to stay tuned.9 pm – Channel 4 – Your Song: Produced by the team behind The Piano, this new talent show invites ordinary Britons to perform the songs that hold personal meaning. Hosted and judged by Alison Hammond, Paloma Faith and Sam Ryder, the series launches from Liverpool with stories ranging from a teenager’s Bocelli tribute to a lift‑engineer’s pipe‑organ showcase, all racing toward a finale at the Hackney Empire.6 pm – BBC One – Secret Garden: David Attenborough returns to domestic natural history, turning his lens on a modest garden in Bristol. The programme explores the hidden dramas of urban foxes, blue tits and goldfinches, revealing how a tiny plot can host an entire ecosystem.7 pm – BBC Two – Olivier Awards 2026: The Royal Albert Hall hosts the 50th anniversary of Britain’s premier theatre awards, with Nick Mohammed as host. Into the Woods and Paddington: the Musical lead the nominations with eleven each, while Elaine Page receives a Special Award. Rumours swirl about a surprise performance from the awards’ most famous marmalade lover.7.40 pm – Channel 4 – The Great Celebrity Bake Off for Stand Up to Cancer: A comforting Sunday tradition returns, featuring celebrity bakers Ralf Little, Mutya Buena and Mark Wright. Their creations—savory pull‑apart rolls and vegan fruit tarts—aim to raise funds for cancer research.8 pm – BBC One – The Other Bennet Sister: This Pride & Prejudice spin‑off follows Ella Bruccoleri’s Mary as she navigates the attentions of Mr Hayward and Mr Ryder, with a storm‑laden hike adding further tension to the series’ impending conclusion.10.15 pm – ITV1 – Savage River: Australian crime drama starring Katherine Langford returns, following ex‑con Miki Anderson as she attempts a fresh start in her hometown, only to become the prime suspect when a new crime erupts.Film choice – Sky Cinema Premiere – Blue Moon (6.10 am & 7.10 pm): Richard Linklater’s melancholy drama, anchored by Ethan Hawke’s transformative performance, imagines a night in the life of struggling Broadway lyricist Lorenz Hart, whose post‑opening despair leads him to a cocktail of regret.4.15 pm – Channel 4 – Soul: Pixar’s latest metaphysical adventure, co‑directed by Pete Docter and Kemp Powers, follows deceased music teacher Joe (voiced by Jamie Foxx) as he navigates a limbo for unborn souls, meeting the reluctant 22 (Tina Fey) in a story that blends child‑friendly wonder with adult reflections on purpose.Live sport: Premier League action kicks off with Sunderland vs Tottenham at 1 pm on Sky Sports Main Event, followed by Chelsea vs Manchester City at 4.25 pm, offering football fans a double‑header of top‑flight drama.

While reviewing his putting in the new player facility on Friday evening, Scottie Scheffler found himself drawn to the big‑screen coverage of Rory McIlroy’s round. The sight of McIlroy’s play sparked a shift in Scheffler’s mindset, and with 36 holes remaining he was 12 shots behind the leader but with nothing to lose.Seizing the moment, Scheffler produced a 65 (‑7), the best round of his Masters career. He carded five birdies and an eagle, turning a steady start of 70 and 74 into a decisive surge.His charge began on the long downhill 2nd, where an approach landed in the heart of the green and he sank a six‑foot putt for eagle. He continued the on‑fire stretch through the 7th, 8th and 9th, leaving the front nine five under par with putts of six, 14 and four feet respectively.The crowd swelled as his name lit up the leaderboards. By the time he reached Amen Corner, spectators were lining the fairways, and his 200‑yard tee‑shot on the 11th curled perfectly onto the green, stopping eight feet from the pin.At the 13th, a mis‑hit approach found a bunker, forcing a scramble for par – a rare blemish in an otherwise flawless round. He rebounded with a birdie on the 16th, while short‑range putts at 14 and 17 fell short, leaving him just a few inches from a potential record.When asked if the round could have been even lower, Scheffler responded sharply, yet admitted, “It definitely could have been lower.” He emphasized that he had executed the shots he needed, noting his iron play was “very sharp” and that he created ample scoring opportunities.After the round, Scheffler sat four shots back of the leader, a manageable gap given his momentum. He also reflected on the broader challenge of Augusta, citing the need to master the course, shifting conditions and personal nerves.

Iraq's parliament has elected Nizar Amedi as the country's new president, ending a political deadlock that had paralyzed government formation. Amedi, nominated by the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), secured 227 votes in a second round of voting on Saturday, comfortably defeating independent candidate Muthanna Amin Nader, who received 15 votes.He becomes the sixth Iraqi head of state since the removal of Saddam Hussein in a US-led invasion in 2003. Speaking to parliament after the vote, Amedi acknowledged the weight of what lies ahead, pledging to work alongside all three branches of government and committing to the principle of 'Iraq First'.Amedi also condemned attacks that had targeted Iraq during the US-Israel war on Iran. The election comes as Iraq is still absorbing the shockwaves of the weeks-long war, which was halted with a ceasefire announced earlier this week.Attention now turns sharply to the choice of prime minister, a far more consequential and politically explosive question. Under Iraq's sectarian power-sharing system, the prime minister must be a Shia Muslim, the parliamentary speaker a Sunni, and the president a Kurd.Amedi now has 15 days to formally task the nominee of the largest parliamentary bloc with forming a cabinet, which must then be assembled within 30 days. Amedi, 58, is a career public servant who spent decades at the heart of Iraqi political life, previously serving as a senior aide to two former presidents and as environment minister between 2022 and 2024.Iraq has gone almost 150 days without a new government since the November elections.

Celtic overtook rivals Rangers to sit second in the Scottish Premiership after a narrow 1‑0 win against St Mirren, while Hearts preserved their lead at the top with a late‑filled 3‑1 triumph over Motherwell.At Celtic Park, Alex Oxlade‑Chamberlain broke the deadlock in the 15th minute. After a blocked attempt from Benjamin Nygren, Kieran Tierney delivered a precise cross that Oxlade‑Chamberlain struck into the bottom corner, giving Celtic a comfortable first‑half advantage.St Mirren dominated possession in the second half but failed to create clear chances, allowing Celtic to hold onto the solitary goal.The encounter marked the first meeting between the sides since St Mirren’s surprise 3‑1 cup win over Celtic in December, a result that proved difficult to repeat.For the first time since November, the Green Brigade were welcomed back to Celtic Park, adding a vibrant backdrop to what many view as a dress rehearsal for next week’s Scottish Cup semi‑final.At Tynecastle, Motherwell took an early lead through Emmanuel Longelo. Hearts responded quickly when Cláudio Braga equalised with an overhead kick. The match seemed poised for a draw until Lawrence Shankland converted a penalty after Stephen Welsh was judged to have fouled Landry Kaboré. Kaboré then added a third in stoppage time, sealing the three‑point win for Hearts.In the north, Stephen Robinson ended his winless streak since moving from St Mirren to Aberdeen, guiding his side to a 2‑0 victory over Hibernian at Pittodrie, with Kevin Nisbet scoring in each half.At Tannadice, Zac Sapsford rescued Dundee United with a late penalty, completing a dramatic 3‑2 comeback against Livingston. The hosts had led through a first‑half goal by Will Ferry, but Livingston responded with a quickfire double from Lewis Smith before United equalised via substitute Krisztian Keresztes.Meanwhile, Kelle Roos produced a crucial stoppage‑time penalty save against Dundee striker Joe Westley, earning Kilmarnock a vital point in their relegation battle. The decision followed a lengthy VAR check that delayed the penalty by six minutes.Kilmarnock’s earlier clash with Dundee saw a roller‑coaster finish: Joe Hugill opened the scoring, Simon Murray equalised for Dundee, Michael Schjønning‑Larsen restored the lead for Kilmarnock before Scott Wright’s late goal forced extra‑time drama.