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The Lead As the 10th anniversary of the Brexit vote approaches, the verdict on Britain’s economic performance is clear: voting to leave has resulted in severe costs for households and businesses. The Pound's Value Has Not Recovered The value of the pound swung wildly after the polls closed on 23 June 2016. The collapse in the pound drove up the cost of importing goods, triggering an inflation shock that damaged the public finances and inflicted financial pain on households across the country. A decade later, the pound has never returned above its pre-Brexit level. UK Growth Has Slowed According to the Office for Budget Responsibility, the independent Treasury watchdog, the UK is on track to suffer a 4% hit to national income over a 15-year period. UK GDP per head is between 6% and 8% lower than it would have been without Brexit. Trade Has Suffered from More Border Friction Brexit involved erecting trade barriers, which has hit goods exports. The EU is still the UK’s largest trading partner: in 2025, exports to the bloc were worth £385bn (41% of all UK exports) and imports £474bn (49% of the total). Since the end of the EU transition period on 31 December 2020, growth in UK goods exports has slowed relative to the G7. Uncertainty Sapped Business Investment After a shock result, no clear plan from the government or leave campaigners led to years of infighting over just what Brexit – never properly defined, and often subjective – should be in practice. Amid that political turmoil businesses froze their investment plans. Investment is estimated to be close to 18% lower than it would have been under remain and productivity up to 4% lower. Employment Has Suffered Unemployment in the UK fell after the Brexit referendum to among the lowest rates since the 1970s, before rising sharply during the pandemic. However, experts say this obscured underlying challenges. Wage growth has stagnated, and Britain emerged as the worst-performing country in the G7 for the pace of its recovery in workforce participation after the easing of pandemic restrictions. Brexit Support Has Faded Public support for Brexit has steadily fallen since the 52%-48% leave vote. Polling last month by YouGov shows 70% of Britons support a closer relationship with the EU without rejoining the bloc, its single market or customs union. More than two-thirds think looser ties would be a mistake. A majority – 56% – would back rejoining the bloc outright.

Rebalance Earth is providing a multi‑million‑pound injection to the Broughton Sanctuary estate in North Yorkshire, unlocking the next stage of a five‑year rewilding programme that will transform roughly 700 hectares of the 1,100‑hectare property.The Funding Boost for Broughton Sanctuary’s RewildingThe fund, which describes itself as a “natural capital asset manager”, aims to treat ecosystems as critical infrastructure that can generate both environmental and economic returns. The latest capital injection follows an earlier phase that saw the planting of 330,000 native trees and the reintroduction of beavers, otters and curlews.Scale of Investment and Ecological TargetsFunding amount: described as “a few million” pounds by CEO Rob Gardner.Land area: 700 ha (about two‑thirds of the estate) slated for intensive habitat restoration.Previous achievements: 330,000 trees planted over five years; beaver pair introduced in April produced a second litter.Current land use: 60 cattle, orchards, allotments and a spa‑based tourism operation employing ~700 people across 50 companies.Backer investment: West Yorkshire Pension Fund has placed £25 m in Rebalance Earth.Ecological and Economic Implications for North YorkshireThe rewilding effort is already reshaping the landscape: spruce stands are being felled and replaced with native species, while Iron Age pigs and Dales ponies will graze former sheep fields to break compacted soils. Wildlife returns—including otters, curlews and beavers—signal improving biodiversity, and the natural‑capital model promises reduced flood, drought and coastal‑erosion risks for surrounding communities.Future Outlook: Expanding Natural Capital on the EstateWith the new capital, Rebalance Earth plans to “unlock the next level of rewilding”, extending habitat diversity and demonstrating a scalable model where private investment funds ecosystem restoration. Success could encourage further pension‑fund backing and inspire other historic estates to adopt similar natural‑capital strategies, positioning the Yorkshire Dales as a benchmark for climate‑resilient land management.

The Unexpected Stabilization of InflationFollowing the initial shock of Iran choking off oil supplies in March, the UK economy has demonstrated surprising resilience. While dire warnings predicted a surge in inflation that would force the Bank of England to implement three quarter-point interest rate hikes, the latest data paints a different picture. In May, inflation remained steady at 2.8%, a figure that surprised economists who had expected a rise to 3%.The Discrepancy Between Fuel and Food CostsThe data reveals a complex landscape where energy costs are rising, but broader consumption is cooling. The Office for National Statistics reported that motor fuels were up 25% year-on-year, yet food prices actually fell by 0.1% month-on-month. This divergence suggests that while the immediate impact of the Middle East conflict is being felt at the pump, it has not yet fully permeated the wider economy.UK Inflation: Steady at 2.8% in May (vs. expected 3%)Fuel Prices: Up 25% year-on-yearFood Prices: Down 0.1% month-on-monthUS Inflation: Surged to 4.2% (record high)Why Firms Lack Pricing PowerThe resilience of the UK economy can be attributed to a lack of "pricing power" among businesses. Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey noted that firms do not believe cash-strapped shoppers would tolerate higher prices. This is a stark contrast to the 2022 peak of 11.1% inflation, which was driven by strong consumer demand coinciding with the Russia-Ukraine war. Currently, the fear of a downturn in the jobs market is becoming a more pressing concern for the central bank than rising prices.The Path Forward for Interest RatesThe announcement of a US-Iran peace deal, which has already pushed oil prices below $80 a barrel, has eliminated the Bank’s worst-case scenario. Consequently, the Monetary Policy Committee is expected to keep interest rates on hold at 3.75% at their upcoming meeting. While analysts still expect at least one rate hike this year, markets are now betting on a move in November rather than September. The next major shift may not be a hike, but a potential cut, contingent on the health of the jobs market.

The US's Convincing Victory Over Paraguay The US Men's National Team demonstrated a remarkable performance in their recent match against Paraguay, securing a 4-1 victory. This win not only highlights the team's current form but also their strategic evolution under the guidance of coach Mauricio Pochettino. Key Factors in the US's Success The match showcased the US's improved off-ball movement and midfield control, with players like Weston McKennie and Malik Tillman creating ample scoring opportunities. The team's ability to adapt and exploit Paraguay's defensive weaknesses was crucial to their success. The Impact of Folarin Balogun Folarin Balogun, a striker who has faced eligibility questions due to his background with England and Nigeria, has emerged as a vital component of the US attack. His finesse and physicality have provided the team with a much-needed boost, allowing him to outmuscle opponents and create scoring chances. Strategic Evolution and Player Development The US team's progress can be attributed to Pochettino's tactical acumen and the development of players like Chris Richards, who has become a defensive anchor for both his club and country. The integration of young talent, including Balogun, has injected new energy into the team. Looking Ahead to the World Cup As the US prepares for the World Cup, they face challenges from talented opponents. However, with their current momentum and the depth of their squad, they are well-positioned to make a significant impact in the tournament. The team's blend of experience and youthful energy, coupled with strategic planning, makes them a formidable competitor on the world stage.

A Historic Night in ManhattanNew York City witnessed a seismic shift in its sporting landscape as the New York Knicks secured their first NBA championship in 53 years on Saturday night. While the World Cup 2026 was in full swing, the basketball fever in Manhattan eclipsed the football action, culminating in a dramatic Game 5 victory over the San Antonio Spurs.The Comeback Against the SpursThe Knicks entered the matchup with a commanding 3-1 series lead, yet the atmosphere was tense. Trailing by 15 points deep into the third quarter, the team appeared overwhelmed by the historic moment. However, Jalen Brunson took over, scoring 15 points in the final period to spark a turnaround. The defining moment came with 7.7 seconds remaining, when OG Anunoby hit the game-winning basket to seal the victory.Breaking a 53-Year DroughtThe clinching win marked the end of the longest championship drought in the franchise's history. Brunson finished with a staggering 45 points, showcasing the leadership required to close out a series in hostile territory. This victory not only secured the trophy but also silenced critics who questioned the team's ability to handle high-pressure situations.World Cup 2026: The Knicks Take Center StageThe impact of this win rippled through the city, transforming Manhattan into a sea of royal blue and orange. Despite the presence of the World Cup, the Knicks became the undisputed main event. The Empire State Building was illuminated in team colors, and fans from all walks of life—Thai students to elderly residents—united in celebration, creating a "Fever Pitch" moment described by author Nick Hornby.The New Era of New York BasketballWith the championship secured, the Knicks have established themselves as a dominant force in the league. The city's sports culture is poised for a golden age, setting a new standard for fan engagement and local pride that will likely influence the reception of future global events like the World Cup.

The Golden Boot Legacy Continues in 2026The latest Guardian interactive tracks the race for the coveted Golden Boot as the 2026 FIFA World Cup progresses, showcasing the players who have topped the scoring charts in previous editions and those poised to add their names to the list.Interactive Overview of Top ScorersThe tool presents a sortable table and visual timeline that lets readers explore:All‑time leading scorers across World Cup tournamentsGoal tallies for each edition, from the inaugural 1930 event to the current 2026 competitionNationalities and clubs of the top‑scoring playersScoring Trends Across Tournament HistoryWhile specific figures vary by edition, the interactive highlights several enduring patterns:Modern tournaments tend to produce higher individual goal totals, reflecting more attacking play and expanded group stages.European and South American forwards dominate the historical leaderboard.Defending champions rarely secure the Golden Boot, underscoring the difficulty of balancing team success with personal scoring feats.Implications for Players and NationsThe race for the Golden Boot carries weight beyond personal glory. A top‑scorer can boost a player’s market value, influence transfer negotiations, and elevate the profile of their national team on the global stage.Looking Ahead to Future World CupsAs the 2026 tournament concludes, the data gathered will inform expectations for upcoming editions. Analysts will watch whether emerging talents can break the historical patterns and how tactical shifts may reshape the profile of future Golden Boot winners.

The Socceroos' Jarring Reality CheckAustralia's national soccer team experienced a sobering 2-0 defeat against the United States in their World Cup 2026 Group D match, a stark contrast to their confident performance against Turkey just days earlier. The comprehensive loss in Seattle served as a humbling reminder of the challenges ahead in the tournament, despite the Socceroos maintaining a strong position to advance to the knockout stage.The match marked a significant downturn for Australia, who had entered the fixture with momentum after their 2-0 victory over Turkey. Instead, they appeared shell-shocked for much of the encounter, struggling to cope with the Americans' superior physicality and tactical execution.Tactical Shifts and Questionable DecisionsCoach Tony Popovic's lineup adjustments raised eyebrows before kickoff, with surprise inclusions of Nishan Velupillay and Mat Leckie while omitting standout performers Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe from the starting XI. The decision backfired dramatically, as both newcomers failed to make an impact while leaving the fullbacks exposed to constant American pressure.Compared to the risk-taking that was rewarded against Turkey, Popovic's selections against the USA appeared misguided. Leckie and Velupillay not only struggled to contribute offensively but were unable to provide defensive support, allowing the American flank players to dominate proceedings.Key Performances and Turning PointsThe American team proved superior in nearly every aspect of the game, seemingly winning every 50-50 contest and displaying greater speed and physicality. Weston McKennie emerged as a constant threat down Australia's left flank, while Sergiño Dest provided effective support that exposed the Socceroos' defensive vulnerabilities.The opening goal came from the opposite side, as Antonee Robinson found Folarin Balogun, whose cross was unfortunately turned into his own net by Cameron Burgess. This early setback set the tone for Australia's performance, with three players who had looked accomplished against Turkey—Bos, Circati, and Burgess—being targeted and overwhelmed by the American attack.Second-Half Response and Missed OpportunitiesRecognizing the need for change, Popovic made a triple substitution at halftime, introducing Irankunda and Metcalfe while Christian Volpato entered for his World Cup debut. The Australian team showed improvement in the second half, with Volpato emerging as the most dynamic player, urging fans for support and creating the team's best chance.Irankunda also proved a menace for the American defense, engaging in physical battles with Crystal Palace defender Chris Richards. Despite these positive signs, Australia's opportunities remained limited, with a couple of decent shots saved by American keeper Matt Freese and a Jason Geria effort blocked in a goalmouth scramble as close as they came to a goal in the second half.Group Dynamics and Path ForwardDespite the comprehensive defeat, Australia's World Cup campaign remains viable. The three points secured against Turkey prove invaluable in their quest for a knockout berth, though they now likely need to avoid defeat against Paraguay in San Francisco next week to guarantee advancement.The first tiebreaker in the group stage is head-to-head record if points are level. While the Socceroos can no longer catch the Americans and are guaranteed to leave their home base of San Francisco if they progress, they remain likely qualifiers in either second or third position—provided they can drastically improve on their Seattle performance.

The Art of Transformation For 50 years, American artist Maren Hassinger has been creating fascinating site-specific sculptures out of simple actions like tying a square knot, twisting metal into organic shapes, and blowing breath into a plastic bag. Her work is currently on display at the Berkeley Art Museum in a retrospective titled 'Living Moving Growing', which showcases her most celebrated works and invites audiences to participate in her creative process. Exploring the Power of Knots Hassinger's work often features knots, which she uses to transform materials and create immersive experiences. Her piece 'Untitled Rope' brings together four industrial-grade lengths of rope, each arranged into a loose macrame knot. According to BAMPFA senior curator Anthony Graham, Hassinger's use of knots is a way of exploring the relationship between materials and the space they inhabit. Community Engagement and Participation The exhibition includes a workshop component, where visitors can participate in creating Hassinger's sculpture 'Sign of the Times'. This piece features strips of the New York Times carefully twisted and tied together to form massive ropes of newspaper that hang down from a gallery wall. The workshops are a way for Hassinger to engage with her audience and create a sense of community and connection. Exploring Themes of Identity and Politics Hassinger's work also explores themes of identity and politics, particularly in her video pieces like 'Birthright' and 'Daily Mask'. These works foreground her experiences as a Black female artist and her exploration of themes like family history and racial identity. A Legacy of Innovation and Connection Throughout her career, Hassinger has been known for her innovative approach to sculpture and her ability to create connections between people and materials. Her work continues to inspire and challenge audiences, and this retrospective at the Berkeley Art Museum is a testament to her enduring legacy.

The Evolution of Morris Dancing Morris dancing, a traditional form of folk dance, has undergone significant changes over the years. Once a male-dominated sport, it has become more inclusive, with women now making up more than half of Britain's Morris dancers. The Morris Federation, established in 1975, played a crucial role in allowing women to join Morris sides. Meet Boss Morris Boss Morris, an all-female side from Stroud, is at the forefront of this evolution. The group, founded by Alex Merry, is known for their energetic performances and creative costumes. They have even appeared on stage at the Brit Awards with the band Wet Leg. The Photography Session Photographer Hollie Fernando was inspired to capture the essence of Boss Morris after seeing them perform. She organized a summer solstice shoot on Rodborough Common, where the group practiced. The session was a collaborative effort, with the group's members contributing to the creative process. The Iconic Goat Caprihorn The goat in the background of the photograph is Caprihorn, one of Boss Morris's beloved beast characters. The costume is based on a medieval manuscript depicting mummers in animal masks. The group's creative approach to folklore and tradition is evident in their performances and visual storytelling. The Power of Female Empowerment Fernando's photography style often focuses on promoting strength and powerful themes in her work around women. Her experience with Boss Morris has inspired her to start a new female side in Brighton, showcasing her passion for capturing the beauty and energy of women's Morris dancing.