As England and Leeds United fans come to terms with the Three Lions devastating loss against Italy, victims of domestic abuse in the city find themselves at increased risk.
Whilst for many the football is an exciting time of high emotions and nail-biting tensions that lead to nothing more than a few gripes in the pub, for some a post-match defeat (or win) can be a very scary and vulnerable time.
According to research by the national centre of domestic abuse, incidents tend to increase on average by 26% when England play and 38% when they lose.
Looking back to the 2010 World Cup, domestic violence leapt 27.7% when England won a match and saw a 33.9% increase when they lost.
Further research from the London School of Economics supports this, also suggesting that football matches increase the risk of domestic abuse victimisation.
Although violence decreases throughout the two-hour period when a match is played, abuse then starts to increase in its aftermath, research suggests.
Academics who have researched the matter say the violence tends to peak between 10 and 12 hours following a match but can be even later.
For those who do feel at risk, its vital that victims to do not feel they have to suffer alone.
Ruth Davison, chief executive of charity Refuge, said: “Refuge’s message to women and girls experiencing domestic abuse remains clear: you are not alone, Refuge is here for you.
"While football tournaments do not cause abuse – abuse is always a choice a perpetrator makes – they can exacerbate pre-existing abusive behaviours.
“Let’s be really clear, there is never an excuse for abusive behaviour and abuse doesn’t come ‘by appointment’, it happens all year round.
“However, Refuge wants to reassure women that 365 days a year, come rain or shine, regardless of what happens at Wembley Stadium this week, we are here for you, and can offer you the support you need.”
Who to call if you need help
Free support is available on a completely confidential basis from Refuge’s 24-hour national domestic abuse helpline on 0808 2000 247. The team here can help you find a refuge place, if necessary, as well as providing other specialist services to those in need.
There is also a digital support chat that runs live from Monday to Friday between 3pm and 10pm via www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk.
Help is also available via the free Leeds Domestic Violence Service on its 24 hour helpline, 0113 246 0401. Alternatively you can contact them on hello@ldvs.uk.
LDVS supports anyone suffering from domestic abuse and actively encourages people from LGBT+ communities to access their support.
You can also call the Leeds Womens Aid 24-hour helpline on 0113 246 0401.
As women around the world swoon over Jacob Elordi, he's too busy loving rocks and sheep.
In case you haven't been on social media over the past week and managed to avoid the influx of paparazzi images, the hotly anticipated 'Wuthering Heights' adaptation is out soon and with that comes heaps of red carpets, screenings and glamorous premieres.
Famously set against the brooding hills of Yorkshire, Wuthering Heights by our very own Emily Brontë follows the tumultuous love story of Heathcliff and Cathy.
Played in the upcoming film by Australian heartthrobs Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie.
During the recent London premiere where Elordi was seen wearing a rather dashing green three piece, the stars were asked what they thought the 'sexiest' thing about Yorkshire is by HitsRadioUK.
A valid question to which Jacob replies "rocks and sheep". I mean, he's got a fair point.
Margot Robbie went into a little more detail, she said "Sunrise and sunset in Yorkshire is a pretty dramatic experience. The sky is literally like red and orange. I honestly couldn't believe it when I was out there. The landscape is stunning."
Why thank you Margot, we absolutely agree. She continues to shower us with compliments stating that the "People are lovely. Pubs are great. I love it"
It seems like Margot has got Yorkshire pretty bang on there, and if she ever needs any pub recommendations then we'll absolutely help her out.
Jacob on the other hand, we know rocks and sheep are sexy but...have you ever met us?
Hopefully he fell in love with our county enough to come back, as we wouldn't mind bumping into him on a hike up the Yorkshire moors.
Popular Leeds gaming bar announces immediate shock closure after going into liquidation
Clementine Hall
Point Blank in Leeds city centre have suddenly closed after going into liquidation.
The popular gaming bar hasn't been open all that long, and was marketed as the country's first simulated shooting range bar.
Despite being a popular attraction since opening last year, the bar has closed immediately, unable to honour any future bookings.
Point Blank confirmed late this Tuesday 3 February that it had sadly entered liquidation, describing the move as “completely unforeseen and beyond our control.”
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Up until just a few days ago, the Point Blank branch in Leeds had been promoting events including happy hours, shooting experiences, and even a Superbowl event scheduled for next Sunday 8 February.
A statement on their website reads: "It is with a heavy heart that we announce that Point Blank Shooting has entered liquidation.
"This situation was completely unforeseen and beyond our control. Due to our Manchester landlord entering administration, our lease was lost as part of that process. This had a serious knock-on effect across the wider business, leaving us with no other option.
"After seven incredible years of trading, this is a devastating moment for everyone involved at Point Blank.
"If you currently have a booking with us, we are working closely with the relevant parties to gain clarity and provide answers. We kindly ask for your patience while this process is ongoing.
"Thank you to everyone who has supported us over the years — hopefully this is a see you later, not a goodbye."
Georgina Pellant -
12th July 2021 
