The University of York says it is in the process of planning a “fitting tribute” after its most famous campus resident, Long Boi, is presumed to have died.
If you were unfamiliar with the social media sensation that was Long Boi, he’s not only well-known among the York student community, but he’s probably considered to be one of the most well-known ducks in the world.
When photos of Long Boi were shared social media in May 2021, they went viral shortly after, and the new star was then featured on TV and radio broadcasts all around the world.
Standing at a proud and impressive 70cm tall, the duck was originally spotted towering above all the others in the pond back in 2019, and was subsequently given the nickname he would be known by, ‘Long Boi’, as went on to become an attraction at the University of York.
But sadly, after sightings became slim, Long Boi was declared missing in mid-March 2023, and despite search parties looking long and hard for him over the last two months, the University of York was forced to issue an official statement yesterday that they “conclude he has passed away”.
In an official statement, a university spokesperson said: “Following a period of almost two months without a confirmed sighting of Long Boi, we are today forced to conclude that he has passed away.
Image: Long Boi (via Instagram)
“We appreciate this is not the resolution that many people were wishing for, but hope that acknowledging his passing allows us to focus on celebrating his life and commemorating the time he spent with us.”
The admin of the famous Long Boi Instagram said it had been “an absolute pleasure” to run the account over the last four years and to “see the joy” he brought to university students, staff, and visitors who loved to meet, feed, and photograph him on campus.
“Walking across campus, you’ll always spot a group of students looking for Long Boi, his image adorns our student society logos, merch and advertising, and he has even become an unofficial mascot of the University itself.
“Whether going to feed Long Boi as a well-earned stress relief during exam season, or awaiting his lighthearted Instagram updates through times of uncertainty and lockdowns, Long Boi has always brought a smile to his fans and friends.
“Long Boi will always be remembered by those who knew and loved him.”
The spokesperson confirmed that the University is “working on plans to organise a fitting tribute to Long Boi”, but asked that people feed ducks or make a charitable donation in Long Boi’s, memory instead of leaving flowers on campus.
Details about Long Boi’s memorial will be “confirmed in due course”, the University concluded.
A viral apothecary shop in Yorkshire has warned visitors about huge queues forming outside its doors, urging people to visit during the week if they want to avoid the crowds.
The Cabinet of Curiosities in Haworth has become a popular destination for those looking to really get into the autumn spirit.
And it seems like there's a lot of people who are looking to do so, as huge queues have been forming along the quaint cobbled streets of Haworth.
So much so, that owner Carolin had to issue a statement via The Cabinet of Curiosities Instagram page.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
It reads: "Weekends in Haworth have become particularly busy during Autumn and we are so grateful to all those lovely souls who have patiently queued to visit the shop.
"We are so honoured that you are happy to wait to come in to our magical apothecary shop, and I can’t quite believe it when I look out of the windows and see the queue snaking up the cobbles. Be assured that the queue does move fast and it makes for a far more pleasurable visit if there are fewer people in the shop at once.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
"If you would rather avoid the busy times it’s best to visit during the week if you can. Our shop is open 7 days a week 10-5, but to make sure all the shops in Haworth are open then Wednesday, Thursday and Friday are probably the best days to visit.
"We are doing our best to keep up with restocking and our fabulous workshop witches are busy blending, filling and packing every day to keep to keep the shelves stocked. We are humbled and forever grateful that you love our little shoppe, and hope you enjoy your potions and your visit to The Cabinet of Curiosities."
Leeds Bradford Airport issue statement as 130 workers prepare to strike
Clementine Hall
Leeds Bradford Airport is set for a standstill as almost 130 workers are set to take industrial action over pay.
If you're planning on catching a flight from Leeds Bradford Airport, then you may want to double check the date.
The Unite members planning on going on strike are a mixture of air traffic control workers, customer experience staff, security staff and cleaners.
The workers involved in the dispute have recently come out of a four-year pay deal, with some of the departments having fallen behind other airports in equivalent roles.
Pay talks have been happening since December 2025, with the airport's formal offer not going far enough to address the lack of pay parity.
Strikes will take place from 03:00 Friday 16 October to 06:00 Sunday 18 October for hourly paid staff and from 06:00 Friday 16 October to 06:00 Sunday 18 October for air traffic control workers.
Strike will mean the entire airport will shut down.
Since the announcement, Leeds Bradford Airport have issued a statement: "Leeds Bradford Airport acknowledges the proposed industrial action due to take place between 16-18 October involving a group of operational colleagues.
"We respect the right of employees to participate in lawful industrial action. However, we are disappointed by this and do not believe strike action is the right way to resolve the issues still under discussion.
"The airport has made what we believe is a fair and responsible offer that is significantly above inflation and reflects both current economic conditions and the need to ensure the long-term sustainability of the business.
"Our priority now is to minimise disruption for customers, many of whom have worked hard and saved for important holidays, family visits and business travel. At this stage we anticipate running near-normal operations during the period.
"Leeds Bradford Airport plays a vital role in connecting Yorkshire to the world. Industrial action has the potential to cause inconvenience for thousands of customers and local businesses who rely on those connections.
"We remain committed to constructive dialogue with Unite and would welcome continued discussions aimed at reaching a resolution. Our focus remains on serving Yorkshire, supporting our colleagues and maintaining safe airport operations."
The Hoot -
12th May 2023 
