Future of Matt Baker’s hit Channel 4 show revealed after one series
THE future of Matt Baker’s hit Channel 4 show is revealed after one series.
Matt’s festive family favourite – Matt Baker: Christmas Travels With Mum and Dad was recently back on our screens and fans adored it.
![Our Dream Farm with Matt Baker; promotional image showing Matt Baker and a group of people in a field.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/n-no-generics-picture-shows-597388734.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
![Promotional image for the TV show "Our Dream Farm with Matt Baker," featuring Matt Baker and a group of people in a field.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/dream-farm-969154865_f92f71.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
![Group photo of Countryfile presenters with lambs and a dog, surrounded by hay bales.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/n-no-n-picture-shows-257676488.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
The show followed the Bakers as they left their beloved Durham Dales to sample the best Christmas offerings from neighbouring counties.
Now, Channel 4 have confirmed that the Countryfile presenter will return to our screens with a second series of Our Dream Farm with Matt Baker in 2025.
The exciting new series follows The National Trust as it searches for a new tenant of a 600-acre farm in the spectacular Eryri, (formerly Snowdonia), North Wales.
The documentary-style series follows seven shortlisted applicants who have been brought together to get to know the farm where they hope to live.
Each week, the candidates are monitored by The National Trust as they complete real world farming tasks as they try to prove that they should be chosen to take on the tenancy of the farm.
The candidates must consider what it means to run the farm and will be judged on their ability to maximise all of the opportunities the farm has to offer.
These will include environmental sustainability, farming innovation and tourism.
However, candidates will be eliminated one by one until just two are left, and invited to attend a final meeting with the National Trust.
Only the winner will be offered the 15-year tenancy of the farm set deep in the heart of rural Eryri.
Matt Baker said: “I am delighted we’re back for a second series, shedding light on the tenant farming world and the challenges our farming community faces in not only producing food but also in looking after our environment.
“It’s an incredible farm and I hope viewers will indulge in the breathtaking landscapes and enjoy learning about Welsh hill farming traditions, culture and techniques.”
Deborah Dunnett, who commissioned the series for Channel 4 said: “Big Circus have made a beautiful series that will really change the life of one Farmer as they take on the management of this glorious tenancy.
“We are thrilled to have worked in partnership with the National Trust to share the culture, language, history and heritage of this working Welsh farm deep in the Eryri National Park.”
Giles Hunt from The National Trust said: “The National Trust were delighted to work with Big Circus and Channel 4 to have made another series of Our Dream Farm.
Countryfile presenting team
![](https://www.thesun.ie/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/06/countryfile-presenters-910221769.png?strip=all&&w=600&&h=400&&crop=1)
Agricultural programme Countryfile launched on the BBC in 1988. In its long history, the show's seen several presenters come and go. Let's take a look at the current line-up.
- John Craven: The longest-serving presenter, having debuted in 1989, John is also known for his work on Newsround from 1972–1989.
- Adam Henson: Adam, who comes from a farming family, joined the presenting team in 2001. His other media work includes BBC Radio 4’s Farming Today and BBC Two’s Lambing Live.
- Matt Baker: Having joined the line-up in 2009, Matt also presented The One Show alongside Alex Jones from 2011 to 2020. Before that, he hosted Blue Peter from 1999 to 2006.
- Tom Heap: Tom joined Countryfile in 2009 and in April 2012, he took over the investigative reporter role from John Craven. He has also presented The Climate Show on Sky News.
- Helen Skelton: Another former Blue Peter presenter, she hosted the beloved children’s programme from 2008 to 2013. Helen joined the Countryfile team in 2014 and has competed in Strictly Come Dancing.
- Anita Rani: Anita was added to Countryfile in 2015 and has presented other programmes for the Beeb including The Refugee Camp: Our Desert Home, among others.
- Sean Fletcher: Newsreader and presenter Sean joined Countryfile in 2015. He is also known for Good Morning Britain, Songs of Praise and BBC Breakfast.
“We hope the series increases people’s understanding of the role farmers and land managers play in restoring nature, producing food and improving the climate for the whole of the UK.
“The National Trust hugely values its relationship with it farming tenants – and works hard to collaborate on ways to achieve more nature on our land, whilst maintaining important farming values.
“Rural life and culture in Wales are critically important considerations among these communities that work almost exclusively in Welsh and we were delighted to be able help bring these important aspects to a wider audience.
“The farm we are letting is among the most nature rich in the Trust’s Wales portfolio – and the lucky winner of the tenancy will be charged with caring for it for the public, now and over the next 15 years.”
He concluded by stating: “We all very much look forward to working with them.”
The first series of Our Dream Farm with Matt Baker is available to stream on Channel 4.
Vigil held for shark attack victim Charlize Zmuda, 17, mauled to death at Aus beach as grieving dad makes heartfelt plea
HUNDREDS of mourners have gathered to honour Charlize Zmuda, a 17-year-old surf lifesaver who was killed in a shark attack just a day earlier.
Holding a single candle, her dad Steve stood surrounded by family, friends, and well-wishers on Tuesday afternoon at Woorim Beach, Queensland.
![A large group of people gathered on a beach for a vigil.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2025-17-year-old-charlize-969134253.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
![Woman in black dress on beach.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/f6b615fd-42e5-41ca-a9c6-7ceccbeed387_2cec76.jpg?strip=all&w=478)
![Mourners at a vigil for a teen shark attack victim.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2025-17-year-old-charlize-969133807.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
![Floral tributes at a beach memorial.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2025-17-year-old-charlize-969134996_32433d.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
Mourning the loss of his daughter, the grieving dad urged the community not to fear the beach she loved.
“When I got the tragic news yesterday, I was extremely gutted,” Mr Zmuda said.
“But something that my wife and I want to say is we don’t want people to stop coming to the beach and enjoying our beach.
“It’s a big part of our lives, we’ve got our family here, our community, and we love everybody here.”
Charlize was swimming about 100 meters offshore at Woorim Beach late Monday afternoon when she was bitten by a shark.
Paramedics rushed into the water to help her, but the teen suffered catastrophic upper-body injuries and tragically died at the scene.
The high school senior had been at the beach in Bribie Island with friends at the time of the attack.
Witness Chris Potter recalled hearing a piercing scream from the water, initially believing she had been caught in a rip.
“It was shocking,” he told local outlet The Courier Mail.
Community in mourning
Charlize’s loved ones returned to Woorim Beach on Tuesday morning to watch the sunrise and lay flowers by the water.
They gathered again later in the day, hugging each other, lighting candles, and paying tribute to the teen.
“Please focus on the incredible life she lived and not the awful way she died,” the family’s statement read.
Tributes have poured in from across the community and on social media.
“Rest in peace, beautiful,” one person wrote online.
“Such a beautiful, sweet young lady from a beautiful family,” said another.
![Photo of Charlie Zmuda.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/shark-tragedy-girl-17-mauled-969018066.jpg?strip=all&w=303)
![People hugging on a beach at a vigil for a shark attack victim.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2025-17-year-old-charlize-969134449.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
A life dedicated to the ocean
Charlize was well known in the Bribie Island community.
A surf lifesaver since the age of eight, she was co-captain of the Bribie Island Surf Life Saving Club and had recently competed with the IRB team at the Lifesaving World Championships.
“Charlize was a member of our club since she was eight years old,” her father said.
“She was a dedicated lifesaver who wanted only the best for our club and for all of our community.”
Her mum, Renee Zmuda, described Charlize as a free spirit who “touched the lives of everyone she met.”
“She loved the beach and it truly was her happiest place on earth,” the family’s statement read.
Beyond lifesaving, Charlize was also a talented musician.
![Two teenage girls in surf rescue uniforms take a selfie.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/shark-tragedy-girl-17-mauled-969017970_392240.jpg?strip=all&w=828)
![Emergency responders on a beach near a police vehicle.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/shark-tragedy-girl-17-mauled-969153187.png?strip=all&w=828)
“She was the lead at St Columban’s School as a singer … she was so musically gifted,” Mr Zmuda said.
“She could hear a piece of music and then … play it in a heartbeat. To have that talent taken away right now, that kills me.
Charlize had just attended her school formal and completed her first day of Year 12.
A week before her death, she shared photos of herself at Bribie Beach, strumming a guitar by a campfire and riding waves with friends, News.com.au reported.
Charlize’s fatal attack follows the death of 28-year-old surfer Lance Appleby, who was killed by a shark off South Australia’s coast last month.
And in December, 40-year-old pastor Luke Walford was killed while spearfishing in the Southern Great Barrier Reef near Humpy Island.
Amorim may have stumbled onto same path that fired Liverpool and Arsenal back to the top after Man Utd’s transfer misery
THE pressure is on Ruben Amorim after the winter window closed without any significant Manchester United incoming business.
It is hard to believe Amorim really only wanted to bring in a 20-year-old left-back and a kid from Arsenal’s youth team – even if he was evidently desperate to get shot of Marcus Rashford and Antony.
![Ruben Amorim, manager of Manchester United, reacting during a match.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/ruben-amorim-head-coach-manager-968681112.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
![Patrick Dorgu, new Manchester United signing, holding his jersey.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/new-signing-patrick-dorgu-manchester-968618181_adb532.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
![Marcus Rashford signing with Aston Villa.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/marcus-rashford-aston-villa-signs-968719337_5c8464.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
![Antony of Real Betis during a La Liga match.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/credit-pressinphoto-sports-agency-alamy-969113452.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
Financial issues, it seems, lay at the heart of United’s lack of serious work in the market despite a miserable season so far.
Many United fans were calling on Amorim and Ineos to do more in the winter window.
But perhaps out of financial necessity, rather than choice, he may have stumbled onto the same path that propelled Liverpool and Arsenal back to where they are now.
To do it properly, change takes time. It is about doing it right, rather than for the sake of acting, only to have to start all over a few months later.
The Old Trafford faithful, looking up from 13th, may not want to laud what happened at Anfield and The Emirates when those two clubs made their most important managerial changes of the past decade.
Yet the initial actions of both Jurgen Klopp and Mikel Arteta, where neither opted for a grand cull and revamp in terms of personnel at the first opportunity either, maybe the example Amorim can benefit from following.
What mattered, at Liverpool and Arsenal, was a cultural reset. A reboot of attitude and mentality. Led from the top, filtering all the way through the club.
Exactly what is required at Old Trafford now.
CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS
Klopp, in particular, inherited a mess when he replaced Brendan Rodgers at Anfield in October 2015.
His first side, in a goalless draw at Spurs, included Martin Skrtel, Mamadou Sakha and Alberto Moreno at the back, Emre Can and Lucas Leiva in midfield and a bench that included Jordan Ibe, Jerome Sinclair and Kolo Toure.
![Jurgen Klopp and the Liverpool team celebrating their UEFA Champions League victory.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/jurgen-klopp-manager-liverpool-celebrates-874751151.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
![Three Liverpool soccer players looking dejected on the field.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/9f2de871-55ea-4e47-8335-d722ad16f936.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
![Four Arsenal players looking dejected.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/granit-xhaka-alexandre-lacazette-pierre-969147895.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
![Mikel Arteta celebrating.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/arsenals-spanish-manager-mikel-arteta-937562538.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
Klopp’s first decision, his key one, was to alter the mindset and approach of the players at his disposal, rather than a wholesale switch of personnel.
Indeed, the only player signed by Liverpool in January 2016 was Serbian midfielder Marko Grujic, immediately loaned back to Red Star Belgrade and whose Liverpool career added up to just 16 appearances across three seasons.
It was not until the summer window, when 16 players – including no fewer than six in that initial match day squad at White Hart Lane – departed and Joel Matip, Sadio Mane and Georginio Wijnaldum were among the arrivals, that the Klopp player makeover began in earnest.
The real work, though, had already been started off the pitch, at the training ground and in the mentality of the dressing room.
Klopp made a point of learning the names of all 80 staff at the club’s Melwood base, introducing them to the players.
It was a signal of intent. One club. One goal. Together – from the humblest groundsman to the star striker. A bond was created.
Likewise at Arsenal, Arteta, appointed just before Christmas 2019, dabbled only in the loan market in his first window.
Three in, with Emile Smith Rowe and defender Mavropanos departing temporarily.
The main squad changes came afterwards. January arrivals Pablo Mari and Cedric Soares had their loans made permanent, with Brazilian defender Gabriel, Thomas Partey and Willian added.
Critically, also, the clear-out was ramped up over the second and third windows, with Henrikh Mkhitarian, Mesut Ozil and defenders Sokratis and Mustafi all out by January 2021, swiftly followed by Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
Indeed, by August 2022, less than three years after he arrived, only five of the players on his first team-sheet – Bukayo Saka, Smith Rowe, Granit Xhaka, Gabriel Martinelli and Reiss Nelson – were still in the building.
Like Klopp, too, Arteta was determined to force through, no matter how uncomfortable it was, an attitudinal change.
Marking his fifth anniversary at the helm in December, the Spaniard recalled: “The first thing was that I got everyone together, the staff and the players, and I told them what I thought about them and why this wasn’t working.
“If we were going to continue like this, it was never going to work.”
He added: “We had to get back all together with the same agenda and with the same intentions.
“The foundations have to be really strong in order to create something.
“We had to create the right culture for our club, an environment where, first of all, everybody has to respect each other, that we work together and express the passion at how lucky we are to be where we are.”
Of course, what helped both – unlike Amorim – was evidence on the pitch.
Klopp lost just one of his first 11 games at the helm, Arteta had one defeat in his initial 14 games. It built a bulwark for when things became tougher.
Amorim, by contrast, lost six out his first 11 after replacing Erik ten Hag.
And successes have been in short supply since then, too, adding up to eight victories in 19 matches, only four wins out of 13, plus seven losses, in the Prem.
Inconsistent team selection reached another level when he opted to play Kobbie Mainoo as an effective false nine in Sunday’s shocker against Palace, leaving both Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund on the bench for 70 minutes.
That only six of the team that started Amorim’s first match at Ipswich were in the initial side on Sunday added to that sense of uncertainty.
The one major signing, Danish left-back Patrick Dorgu, is now pitched into a club that seems unsure of its next steps.
Amorim will want to believe that sending Rashford and Antony out of the door, seemingly for good, is a statement to the entire squad.
It will have to be. Now, though, it is down to the manager. There is no room for excuses.
Jurgen Klopp's first steps at Liverpool
![](https://www.thesun.ie/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/02/GettyImages-491956928jpg-JS527742776.jpg?strip=all&&w=620&&h=413&&crop=1)
Here is a look at how Jurgen Klopp started to change Liverpool...
Klopp first game v Spurs Oct 2015
Mignolet; Clyne, Skrtel, Sakho, Moreno; Coutinho (Ibe), Can, Milner, Lallana (Allen), Lucas; Origi
Bench:
Teixeira, Bogdan, Randall, Sinclair, Toure
Transfers that summer:
James Milner, Robert Firmino, Joe Gomez, Danny Ings, Nathaniel Clyne, Christian Benteke
January:
Marko Grujic (straight back out on loan)
Season results:
Finished 8th, lost CC final to City on pens, lost europa League final to Sevilla
Real change in summer:
In: Matip, Karius Mane, Klavan, Manninger, Wijnaldum £67.9m
Out: 16 inc J Enrique, Toure, Sinclair, Canos, Toure, Teixeira, Sinclair, Skrtel, Ibe, Allen, Benteke, Balotelli, Ilori £76.5m
Mikel Arteta's first steps at Arsenal
![](https://www.thesun.ie/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-04-at-11.42.14.png?strip=all&&w=620&&h=413&&crop=1)
Here is a look at how Mikel Arteta started to change Arsenal...
Arteta first game v Everton Dec 2019
Leno; Chambers, Luiz, Maitland-Niles, Saka; Torreira, Smith Rowe (Willock), Xhaka; Martinelli, Aubameyang (Lacazette), Nelson
Bench:
Pepe, Mustafi, Guendouzi, Mavrapanos, Martinez
Season results:
8th, FA Cup win
Transfers:
Jan in: (loan) Ceballos, Mari, Soares
Out (loan) Smith Rowe, Mavrapanos
Summer:
In: Mari, Soares, Willian, Gabriel, Partey Total spend £81.6m
Out: Mkhitarian, Martinez Total received £28m
Winter:
In: (loan) Dani Ceballos, Martin Odegaard
Out: Ozil, Sokratis, Mustafi
I’ve stayed at 100 campsites and this is Spain’s best one for families: it’s right on the beach & has no sunlounger wars
THANKS to warm weather and tasty grub, camping in Spain is the dream, as mum Breanne Lovatt knows all too well.
Before having kids, the camping expert spent several years working for the European campsite chain Key Camp, which means she knows what makes for a great site.
![Girl on water slide at a tropical resort pool.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/tropical-ambiance-enviable-beach-side-969113186.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
![Woman holding baby at water park.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/breanne-lovatt-family-french-campsite-965733837.jpg?strip=all&w=720)
![Aerial view of a resort with multiple pools and lush landscaping.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/tropical-ambiance-enviable-beach-side-969113187.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
Breanne details her family camping adventures on her website, Family Camping Europe.
Speaking exclusively to Sun Travel, she named Playa Montroig in Catalonia as her favourite spot in Spain.
She said: “Playa Montroig is a great site and we love it because it has direct beach access.
The huge campsite is right on the beach, with its camping pitches in a dreamy location.
“It’s so close to Salou, which is a bustling Spanish tourist town, the coastline is gorgeous and the sea looks like it glistens with gold.
“The pool area is astroturfed so you can just lay your towels down, which means there are no sun lounger wars.
“And the weather has never let me down, it’s just perfect”.
Located on Costa Dorada, the five-star campsite boasts lagoon-style pools lined with palm trees and sun terraces.
There are several swimming pools with splash parks for younger guests and water slides.
Tennis, football, mini golf, basketball and ping-pong are all offered on the five-star site.
![Playground with swings and play structures in a tropical setting.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/tropical-ambiance-enviable-beach-side-969113061.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
![Interior view of a cafe with seating, a bar, and pastry display.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/tropical-ambiance-enviable-beach-side-969113065.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
There’s also an onsite gym and a kids’ club featuring games, sports, tournaments and workshops.
Older guests can get pampered in the onsite spa, which also has a jacuzzi and a sauna.
There are two on-site restaurants, the Espai Grill restaurant and La Terrassa.
The Spanish campsite has several bars, a supermarket, a bakery and a gift shop.
There are a range of overnight accommodation options like tent pitches, mobile homes and bungalows.
Sun Online Travel has found seven-night breaks from £484 for holidays in June.
The sea it backs onto is crystal-clear, it’s just amazing
While there are plenty of on-site facilities to keep holidaymakers entertained, there are nearby attractions too.
The campsite lies just 8km from Cambrils, a Spanish beach resort with Blue Flag beaches, shops and seaside restaurants.
Popular theme park PortAventura is also nearby.
Brit holidaymakers can reach Playa Montroig by flying to Barcelona, where direct flights operate from the UK.
From Barcelona, it’s a 90-minute drive to Playa Montroig.
And it’s not just Breanne who has raved about the Spanish campsite, with Playa Montroig having a 4/5 star rating from thousands of reviews on TripAdvisor.
One person wrote: “A special outdoorsy holiday at a cheap price with luxurious grounds”.
Another simply added: “An amazing family holiday”.
Earlier this year, Breanne revealed the best campsites to visit in France; read her top three picks here.
Three camping tips from an expert
David Scotland owns camping equipment retailer Outdoor World Direct and knows all about how to make a camping trip run smoothly.
When visiting any campsite this summer it’s important to make sure you’re not making simple mistakes that could ruin your holiday.
Check your tent
David recommends putting your tent up a couple of weeks before you’re due to travel to give you enough time to repair or replace any damaged parts.
He told Sun Online Travel: “You’d be surprised how many people turn up with broken tents.”
Test the ground
Picking a good spot to pitch your tent is difficult, with lots of things to consider.
One of those should be the condition of the ground you’re putting your tent on top of, according to David.
He said: “Once you’ve found the perfect spot, test the ground with your pegs before you commit to camping there to make sure the ground is soft enough.”
Don’t nap in your tent
It may seem the perfect place for it, but a nap in a tent could end badly, if it’s done at the wrong time of the day.
David explained: “If the sun’s shining and it’s hot inside your tent – don’t do it!
“One of our friends nodded off in his tent during a heatwave at Glastonbury and ended up at the medical tent with heatstroke.”
Instead, he recommends finding some shade outside or somewhere well ventilated.
Meanwhile, there’s a beautiful campsite in the middle of a vineyard and it’s near one of Europe’s most underrated cities.
At the end of last year, a beachfront campsite in Europe revealed a huge £21million revamp.
![People sliding into a pool from waterslides at a resort.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/tropical-ambiance-enviable-beach-side-969113195.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
![Aerial view of a campsite on a beach in Costa Dorada, Spain.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/tropical-ambiance-enviable-beach-side-969113221.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
Dahlia Sky Wiki, Height, Age, Death, Boyfriend, Family, Biography & More
Coronation Street and Waterloo Road star reveals she’s pregnant with baby boy as famous pals congratulate her
CORONATION Street star Sonia Ibrahim has revealed she’s pregnant with a baby boy.
The actress, who played Mel Maguire on the cobbles for close to a year in 2016 and 2017, shared the happy news on Instagram today.
![Mirror reflection of a pregnant woman in a white dress.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/sonia-ibrahim-969156713.jpg?strip=all&w=324)
![Child's hands holding an ultrasound image.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/sonia-ibrahim-969156707.jpg?strip=all&w=305)
She wrote: “All of my drams have come true. Half way there and we can’t wait to meet you our beautiful baby boy.”
Kym Marsh commented: “Oh how wonderful [love hearts].”
Jessica Fox also left a string of love hearts.
A fan wrote: “Congratulations to you all, fabulous news.”
Another said: “Oh how lovely congratulations.”
In a sweet video clip, Sonia showed off her bump and baby scans.
The Waterloo Road and Hollyoaks star’s daughter Sienna, four, and husband, Arron, also featured in the family’s reveal.
Sonia’s had some memorable moments on the small screen since rising to prominence in Corrie.
As brainwashed salon assistant Mel, she kidnapped Bethany Platt, threatening her with a wheel wrench before stuffing her into a car, to try to stop the schoolgirl testifying against vile groomer Nathan Curtis in court.
Sonia told us at the time: “She knows what all these men are capable of and she’s petrified of them all but she’s in love with Nathan.
“He groomed her from the start, in his eyes he knew what she wanted from Mel.
“He picked her because Mel doesn’t have a family, she’s a very vulnerable girl and he knew what he could do to her so in his eyes he saw his victim straight away.
After her exit, she said: “It’s been an amazing time, it’s been great to work here.
“The opportunity I’ve had is amazing and it’s just a massive family and everyone’s so welcoming and it’s so nice to work with such great people.”
Since November she’s played Kat Omari in Hollyoaks and current scenes have seen her row with protective parent Dan Osborne after being found partying teens at a rowdy house party.
![Smiling woman cuddling baby.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/sonia-ibrahim-969156606.jpg?strip=all&w=768)
![Sonia Ibrahim and her partner announce pregnancy with ultrasound image and balloon.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/coronation-street-actress-sonia-ibrahim-600177172.jpg?strip=all&w=768)
‘Russian roulette’ horror as mum-of-two shot dead after agreeing to have loaded rifle fired at her head in drunken game
A MUM-OF-TWO died after being shot in the head at point-blank range during a drunken Russian roulette game at a house party.
Anastasia Barbakar, 32, a serious gunshot wound to her forehead and was rushed to hospital, where doctors immediately alerted police.
![Woman holding white roses.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/anastasia-barbakar-32-poses-undated-969147936.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
![Woman holding red roses.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/anastasia-barbakar-32-poses-undated-969147955.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
![Rifle with scope.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/picture-shows-rifle-undated-32-969147951.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
She died two days later, on January 30, without ever regaining consciousness at the hospital in Koryazhma, northern Russia.
The horror unfolded on January 25 when the party host, identified only as 34-year-old Vladislav K., showed off his new air rifle to guests.
According to local reports, the group had been fooling around with the weapon, pretending to take aim, when Anastasia took things a step further.
She reportedly put the barrel to her forehead and insisted on being shot, believing the gun was empty.
Vladislav, still thinking there were no rounds in the chamber, jokingly asked: “You sure you want to?”
When Anastasia confirmed she did, he pulled the trigger — sending a deadly lead slug into her skull.
Her devastated husband, Alexey Barbakar, paid tribute to his wife, describing her as a “cheerful, positive, beautiful” woman and a devoted mother to their two daughters.
“Nastya was a good wife, a wonderful mother to our two daughters, a cheerful, positive, beautiful, sociable girl,” he said.
“She could find an approach to every task she did, you can say a lot of good things about Nastya.”
Police initially detained Vladislav on suspicion of causing death by negligence but are expected to upgrade the charge to manslaughter.
Despite often being treated as toys, some high-powered air rifles can fire lead bullets at speeds comparable to a .44 Magnum handgun —more than enough to be lethal at close range.
Elsewhere in Russia, footage of an eight-year-old groom having his first dance after an illegal arranged marriage to a 13-year-old girl has sparked major concerns.
A shocking clip shows the teenage girl in a flowing white wedding dress leading a slow dance with the underage boy as dozens of smiling people watch on.
Local reports said the video went viral online and caused outrage among Russians for the illegal and unfair practice.
The young boy, in navy trousers and a matching blazer, appears to be despondent in the short clip.
His apparent bride looks equally as disheartened as she towers over the small child.
At one point the teenager even positions the boy’s arm in place up in the air as she ducks underneath and spins.
Meanwhile, cops have issued an arrest warrant for an influencer who filmed himself launching his baby into a pile of snow for likes on social media.
Sergey Kosenko, the Russian millionaire behind the dangerous stunt, threw the innocent infant who was thought to be just two-months old at the time.
Sergey is known as Mr Thank You on social media, where he has 46.6million followers on Instagram alone.
The self-described actor, singer, influencer, entrepreneur posted the video last month.
The viral clip has been viewed thousands of times around the world – and now one year on cops are taking action after growing backlash.
![Anastasia Barbakar, 32, posing at a restaurant.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/anastasia-barbakar-32-poses-undated-969147965.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
Phil Mitchell lashes out at loved ones after being saved following suicide attempt in heartbreaking EastEnders scenes
PHIL Mitchell lashed out at loved ones after being saved following a suicide attempt in heartbreaking EastEnders scenes.
BBC One viewers have tuned into the soap to see the legendary hardman spiral in a path of despair.
![Screenshot of a man in a leather jacket, looking angry.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-04-at-11.11.06.png?strip=all&w=960)
![Screenshot of an older man with gray hair looking sternly at the camera.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-04-at-11.12.03.png?strip=all&w=960)
![Man receiving oxygen through a mask.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-04-at-10.32.52.png?strip=all&w=960)
Last year on EastEnders, his estranged cousin Teddy Mitchell (Roland Manookian) made a grand entrance.
He’s now in a relationship with Phil’s ex-wife Sharon (Letitia Dean), while Ben’s sitting in a US prison for fraud and embezzlement.
Recent scenes have shown Phil’s (Steve McFadden) depression spiralled completely out of control as he became a recluse.
He attempted to take his own life during Monday’s episode, however Harry (Elijah Holloway) caught him just in time as he opened up The Arches.
Harry called an ambulance that brought Phil into hospital and he was resuscitated, much to his own displeasure.
Phil later made a full recovery and was allowed out of hospital, but his nearest and dearest had concerns.
A worried Sharon rushed over to number 55, but she was sceptical about his story that his collapse was due to high blood pressure.
She said: “All I’m saying is, it doesn’t add up. And you haven’t been yourself for gd knows how long!”
He sent her away because he insisted on resting, but Nigel (Paul Bradley) continued to quiz Phil on his medical matters as he also had doubts.
Nigel remarked that he hadn’t seen any prescription details, doctors notes or scheduled appointments.
Feeling frustrated and wanting to be left completely alone, he then let his old ‘mate’ have it in a blistering and screaming rant.
“Shut up!”, he exclaimed. “Just shut up! Squeaky little mutt in my ear like a scared little mouse, what do you have to be scared of eh? Nothing!
“I looked after ya, Grant looked after ya, I don’t need looking after. You understand me?
“He was right about you. You’re a parasite. The only reason you got the hump, is because that ten grand aint in your pocket.
Phil Micthell's biggest EastEnders storylines
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Phil Mitchell, a long-running character on EastEnders, has had many storylines, including:
- Alcoholism and addiction: Phil has struggled with alcoholism and addiction to crack cocaine.
- Cirrhosis of the liver: Phil was told he had months to live due to cirrhosis. He eventually received a liver transplant.
- Criminal dealings: Phil has been involved in various criminal dealings.
- Affair with Sharon Watts: Phil had an affair with Sharon Watts, which became known as “Sharongate”.
- Failed marriage to Kathy Beale: Phil was married to Kathy Beale, but their marriage failed.
- Feuds and rivalries: Phil has had many feuds and rivalries, including with his stepson Ian Beale and love rival Steve Owen.
- Murder of Dennis Rickman: Phil sought revenge for the murder of Sharon’s adoptive brother and husband, Dennis Rickman.
- Murder of his uncle Archie: Phil was a prime suspect in the murder of his uncle Archie.
- “Who Shot Phil?”: Phil was shot outside his home in a highly anticipated storyline that was described as a “Dallas-style” whodunnit mystery.
- Loneliness and mental health: Phil may face a storyline related to loneliness and mental health. Some fans speculate that his sibling, Grant, may reappear as a result.
“Why else would you be there? Answer me that! No, exactly. You ain’t here to help me, you ain’t here to hold my hand, you’re here to pick my pocket.”
Phil then told his old “mate” to “do one,” as he then kicked him out of the house.
He finished off by saying: “I’ll tell you what, MATE. You want to help me? Do me a favour and do one! Get out the door and don’t bother coming back.”
Later, he runs into Sharon in the cafe, and she invited Nigel to stay with her for the night after Phil’s furious outburst.
They both recognised that Phil needs help, but Nigel knew it would take a long time, so Nigel announced that he was leaving Walford.
But what has he got in mind for his friend?
![Man in hospital gown sitting in a hospital bed with crutches nearby.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-04-at-10.33.19.png?strip=all&w=960)
![Three men in a hospital room looking at a patient in a bed. One man is holding crutches.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-04-at-10.33.40.png?strip=all&w=960)
![Screenshot of a scene with three people.](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Screenshot-2025-02-04-at-10.34.39.png?strip=all&w=960)
EastEnders continues on BBC One and is available to stream on iPlayer.
Втрати РФ значні, попри сповільнення наступу – ISW
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