Fly balls don't drop in on Clyde softball outfield thanks to Ariah Farrar

Ariah Farrar strides, zips and scoots all over the softball field.

A ball hit into a gap between outfielders — more like a crevice with Farrar — is simply an opportunity for Clyde’s center fielder to skedaddle for a catch. The opposite is true as the sophomore is a triple waiting to happen with hits into the same spaces, that can’t be caught by opponents.

Farrar wasted little time, earning first-team status in the Sandusky Bay Conference Lake Division as a freshman. She’ll beat out a slow roller, rush a throw or steal a bag.

“My speed is a gift I’ve been given,” she said. “I try to use that to my advantage. I just get to every ball I can. I looked forward to contributing as best I could. When Coach (Marc) Marshall had me leadoff for the first scrimmage, I was kind of shocked, but he believed in me, and everyone believed in me, so there was no reason I shouldn’t believe in myself.”

High school baseballChuy Rodriguez steps to front of the line for Gibsonburg baseball

Before high school, Farrar loved to watch Karissa Smith play center field and bat leadoff for Clyde.

The Fliers won the first 14 games of Farrar’s career, including a second straight  crown in the SBC Lake Division and the first four games this season. The stretch was halted by a 7-5 setback to visiting Norwalk as Clyde allowed five runs in the fourth inning.

“I grew up with these girls,” Farrar said. “We played for the Astros. Play the game we love and I knew how much talent we had. We hoped to defend as SBC champs.”

Marshall won the 600thgame of his career at Norwalk. Remember, 100 career victories is rarified air.

“Watching how much he does for us,” Farrar said. “600 wins, that shows how much he cares and his dedication to the program.”

Advertisement

The Fliers (8-8, 4-1) remain one game ahead of Norwalk in the standings in search of a third consecutive league championship. Clyde thought its efforts would be bolstered by league player of the year Taitum Jeffrey in the circle.

Jeffrey, however, will miss the season with an injury. Madison Myers pitches league games this season and Amber Dillingham the others.

“It hurt, having Taitum out with a torn ACL,” Farrar said. “We have two pitchers who stepped up.”

Amber Endres and Mya Stiefel bat after Farrar in the lineup, hoping to launch Farrar around the bases. Freshman Jayleigh Flynn adjusted quickly and barrels the ball.

“Last year, the chemistry was unbelievable,” Farrar said. “I was so blessed to be part of that with the senior leadership. I’m trying to be a more vocal leader. I was hesitant as a freshman. The girls were amazing and helped me develop who I was.

“We picked each other up and it led into this year. We’re close on and off the field. Talking so freely translated to the field to stay connected. Communication is so key for softball to lift each other up or next-play mentality. You’ll make a mistake.

"And, you’ll get the ball again.”

mhorn@gannett.com

419-307-4892

X: @MatthewHornNH

This article originally appeared on Fremont News-Messenger:Ariah Farrar covers center field for surging Clyde OHSAA softball

byAlex Forten

in

May 07, 2026

Fly balls don't drop in on Clyde softball outfield thanks to Ariah Farrar

Ariah Farrar strides, zips and scoots all over the softball field. A ball hit into a gap between outfielders — more like a crevice...

Read More

Severe Storms Again This Week: Dallas and South Face Higher Threat Tuesday, Wednesday

The first full week of May brings a multiday severe storm event. Storms are possible across the South Tuesday and Wednesday, with cities like Dallas and Baton Rouge able to see yet another round of storms in their area.

These areas were just some of the areas that got hit at the end of April, continuing the trend of the Central US seeing storms dating back to March.

(MORE:End Of April Recap Of Severe Weather Outbreak)

The Forecast

While there is a lower severe thunderstorm threat on Monday from Kansas to Ohio that includes Chicago, St. Louis, Indianapolis and Kansas City, the threat ramps up Tuesday and Wednesday.

For Tuesday, northeast Texas, southeast Oklahoma and most of Arkansas are in the bullseye for the strongest storms. That includes cities like Dallas and Shreveport.

On Wednesday, the threat spreads south and east, stretching from eastern Texas to western Alabama. Cities like Houston, Shreveport, Jackson and Birmingham will need to stay weather aware.

At this point, the main threats are looking to be large hail and damaging winds, but a tornado cannot be ruled out.

Advertisement

We'll be able to narrow in on specific threats and timing in the next couple of days.

The Setup

There are a couple of factors that are all coming together for this severe weather. We have a subtropical jet which is travelling across the southern U.S. This jet will help enhance moisture across the South.

There will also be a dip in the jet stream, known as a trough, coming over the Rockies. The conditions will be favorable for a low pressure system to form right in between these upper winds.

That trough will bring in unseasonably cool air while the subtropical jet will enhance the warm, moist air over the South. The clash of these air masses is a classic setup for May, the busiest month for tornadoes on average.

(MORE:What May Brings In Terms Of Weather)

Cool Air To Remain

The storm will drop the temperatures by about 10-20 degrees, bringing cool temperatures for much of the week. However, this cool air will not last very long as above average temperatures from the West will slowly shift east.

Rob Shackelfordis a meteorologist and climate scientist at weather.com. He received his undergraduate and master’s degrees from the University of Georgia studying meteorology and experimenting with alternative hurricane forecasting tools.

byAlex Forten

in

May 06, 2026

Severe Storms Again This Week: Dallas and South Face Higher Threat Tuesday, Wednesday

The first full week of May brings a multiday severe storm event. Storms are possible across the South Tuesday and Wednesday, with citie...

Read More

Nurses Week deals, discounts begin today at Applebee's, Dunkin', more

National Nurses Weekkicks off today, Wednesday May 6, and runs through May 12 with discounts and freebies from national restaurant chains, retailers and apparel brands marking the annual celebration.

The weeklong event is torecognize nurses' impactand contribution here in New Jersey and across the U.S., and many brands taking the opportunity this week to roll out special offers forhealth careworkers. Offerings include discounts on scrubs and workwear plus deals on food and coffee orders.

According to national nursing organizations and deal roundups, many of these discounts are available nationwide — including in New Jersey — though offers may vary by location and often require valid ID, app access or rewards membership.

Here's where nurses can find deals May 6-12, 2026.

Chick-fil-A nurses week deals

• Many Chick-fil-A restaurants celebrate Nurse Appreciation Week by offering deals or freebies for nurses at participating locations.

• Past offers have included free or discounted menu items with a valid nurse ID, though participation is determined by individual operators.

• Nurses should check the Chick-fil-A app or their local restaurant for details.

Dunkin' nurses week deals

• Free medium hot or iced coffee are offered May 6 (National Nurses Day) for nurses and health care workers.

• Valid nurse ID is required at participating locations, and no purchase is necessary.

• Cold brew, nitro, espresso shots and add-ons are excluded.

Applebee's nurses week deals

• Applebee's is offering National Nurses Week deals including free or discounted menu items for nurses and health care workers at participating locations.

• Offers may include a free appetizer with an entrée purchase and require valid nurse ID.

• Availability and deal details vary by location and may be dine-in only.

Chipotle nurses week deals

• Chipotle is giving away up to 100,000 free entrée e-gift cards to health care workers as part of its National Nurses Week promotion.

• Nurses may enter for a chance to win through May 12 at healthcarethanks.chipotle.com and must verify employment through ID.me.

• Winners will be notified starting May 13.

Scrubs and apparel discounts for National Nurses Week

Nurses may also find National Nurses Week discounts on scrubs, footwear and work wear from several apparel brands.

Advertisement

• FIGS: 20% off sitewide for nurses during Nurses Week.

• Crocs: Health care workers can receive 15% off after verifying ID.me status.

• Skechers: Offers discounts to health care workers that may stack with other promotions.

• Lululemon: Nurses can receive 15% off in-store and online after verifying eligibility with SheerID.

• Hoka: Health care professionals can receive 15% off via verifying with ID.me on hoka.com.

More apparel brands may announce Nurses Week deals during the week.

Buffalo Wild Wings nurses week deals

• Dine-in and takeout orders are 20% off for nurses and health care workers during National Nurses Week.

• Valid nurse ID is required at participating locations.

• Offer is available May 6-12.

Outback Steakhouse nurses week deals

• Outback Steakhouse is offering 10% off the total bill for nurses and health care workers with valid medical ID.

• The offer is available during National Nurses Week and may extend beyond, and availability and eligibility can vary by location.

Retail and lifestyle deals for nurses

• Some retailers are offering National Nurses Week discounts on fitness, travel, technology and subscription services.

• Deals may require online verification and are typically available for a limited time during National Nurses Week.

• Availability and discount details vary by brand.

Other National Nurses Week deals and freebies

Shake Shack:

• Free ShackBurger or VeggieShack with any purchase for nurses through May 12.

• Valid nurse ID required; offer available in-Shack only at participating locations.

Insomnia Cookies:

• Buy one cookie, get one free for nurses who are rewards members when ordering in-store.

• Valid nurse ID required at participating locations.

• Rewards members can get 20% off online orders of 50-plus cookies with code EARNEDIT26 at checkout.

Lori Comstock is a New Jersey-based news reporter covering trending news with USA TODAY Network's Mid-Atlantic Connect Team.She covers news in the Northeast, including New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia.Reach her at LComstock@usatodayco.com.

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com:Nurses Week 2026 deals and discounts at Chick-fil-A, Dunkin' and more

byAlex Forten

in

May 06, 2026

Nurses Week deals, discounts begin today at Applebee's, Dunkin', more

National Nurses Weekkicks off today, Wednesday May 6, and runs through May 12 with discounts and freebies from national restaurant chai...

Read More

Hopkinton, Wayland 'beepball' players, coaches make history at Fenway Park

She made history on a historic day.

WhenElana Regansuccessfully – and safely - reached base for theBoston Renegadeslast month, she wasn’t sure if she had actually scored a run. The crowd was cheering for both teams, she said. Was she safe or out?

Learn more:What is beep ball? Baseball variation for visually impaired is 'energy is like no other'

Renegades coach Rob Weissman informed her she was indeed safe, and he had some other exciting news to tell the 2021 Hopkinton High graduate: She is the only woman to ever score a run at Fenway Park.

The Renegades andBoston Strong, teams comprised of blind and low vision athletes, participated in the first beep baseball game ever to be played at the home of theRed Soxon a sunny April 12 afternoon while the Sox were in St. Louis (winning 9-3).

Regan, who flew in from Ann Arbor, Michigan – where she is studying for a law degree at the University of Michigan – was pleased to return to the area for the game, which drew hundreds of spectators, the largest to see the Renegades.

“It was just a big payoff for me personally. I’ve always loved baseball – I played softball when I had more sight,” Regan said. “Getting back into the sport was awesome, but to be playing on such a big stage and having so many people watching was incredible.”

The game was played in Fenway’s outfield and was won by the Renegades, who were founded in 2000. “Beep ball” has been played for more than 60 years and uses audio cues – beeping baseballs and buzzing bases – to guide players.

The Renegades were originally scheduled to play at Fenway in 2024, but rain cancelled the game. Last month, their bench was set up in front of the Green Monster.

“Some of them lost their sight early in life and had dreams and ambitions - some have never played baseball, some have,” said Hunter Weissman (Rob’s nephew), a Renegades coach since age 11 (he’s now 26). “To have the opportunity to play in such a historic ballpark is something that everyone on this team has looked forward to. It was just a really great day.”

Beep ball games are played in silence, but once a play is over, so is the hush.

“They had a chant for every person’s name. Every time someone scored, everyone would start jumping and yelling,” said Wayland High freshman Oliver Harrington, a volunteer with the Renegades along with his father and brother. “The crowd was playing along – they had signs saying to cheer and when to be quiet. All the players, you could tell how much they enjoyed it. They love the sport and they love to play it.”

Advertisement

How to play beep baseball

Beep baseballwas created in 1964, leading to the creation of theNational Beep Baseball Associationin ‘76. The game is played with pitchers, catchers and batters on the same team, working together as a unit. When the pitcher, who stands 20 feet away, is ready to deliver the melon-sized ball, they announce “set, ready, pitch.” It is up to the batter to synchronize and make contact.

When the bat hits the ball, a volunteer randomly activates a buzzing base – first or third - 100 feet away. If the batter reaches the base before the defense picks up the ball, a run is scored. If not, the batter is out.

All players wear blindfolds.

“It’s amazing to see a blindfolded person hit the baseball, run down to the beeping base,” said Eric Harrington, Oliver’s father. “They get together and they play this game and they feel like they’re part of a team. They’re making progress and they’re proud of themselves.”

The Renegades played in the National Beep Baseball Association World Series in 2023 in Norman, Oklahoma and placed fifth out of 19 teams. One of the team’s longest serving coaches is Bryan Grillo, who wasone of 26 winnersof the 2024 Myra Kraft Community MVP Awards program, an honor that earned the Renegades a $10,000 grant.

Owen Harrington, a junior on the Wayland High baseball team, joined the Renegades as a hitting coach last season. His mother, Kate, found the Renegades while researching ways for him to give back to the community.

“It was unlike any other volunteer opportunity,” Owen Harrington, who shares a birthday with former Sox shortstop Xander Bogaerts, said. “It gave me a new perspective; it was more active volunteering. I helped them adjust their swings and I can see the progress they were making.

“They take it seriously. It’s awesome to see how they can be competitive despite their limitations.”

Regan, who endured a six-hour law exam two weeks after the Fenway game, was still buzzing when contacted on May 1 about the “electric” atmosphere in Boston.

“It felt like a professional baseball game,” she said. “We had fans like the Red Sox have fans, so it was pretty darn cool.”

Tim Dumas is a multimedia journalist for the Daily News. He can be reached at tdumas@wickedlocal.com. Follow him on Instagram at tdumas1.

This article originally appeared on MetroWest Daily News:Hopkinton, Wayland 'beepball' players, coaches make history at Fenway Park

byAlex Forten

in

May 05, 2026

Hopkinton, Wayland 'beepball' players, coaches make history at Fenway Park

She made history on a historic day. WhenElana Regansuccessfully – and safely - reached base for theBoston Renegadeslast month, she...

Read More

Police allege friends of NASCAR’s Greg Biffle broke into his home weeks after he died in helicopter crash

Less than a month after NASCAR driver Greg Biffle and his family died in a plane crash last year, investigators allege two "friends" conspired to break into their empty home, taking cash, guns, and financial information in an attempt to steal hundreds of thousands of dollars.

More than 40 search warrants have been issued, North Carolina authorities say, focusing on a married couple who allegedly knew Mr Biffle and his wife, Cristina. Iredell County Sheriff Darren Campbell said the suspects "did a lot of planning in an attempt to make a financial gain" off their deaths. The pair have not been named because no arrests have been made.

Mr Biffle, his wife and his two children, along with three others, died in the 18 December crash, which remains under investigation by the NTSB. Some survivors of those killed are suing the estates of Mr Biffle and the pilot for millions of dollars. According to a search warrant affidavit, the husband being investigated met Mr Biffle when the former driver used his private helicopter to deliver aid after Hurricane Helene. The woman attended a Christmas party at the Biffles' home in Mooresville, North Carolina, weeks before the crash.

Authorities reported a break-in at the home on 8 January, saying $30,000 in cash, two Glock handguns and NASCAR memorabilia were stolen. Search warrants were later executed at two sites, one near the Biffles’ residence and another in a nearby county.

A person seen on surveillance video, identified as a woman, appeared to be familiar with the large home's layout, including the locations of cameras, closets and a safe room, a detective wrote in a search warrant affidavit. The intruder spent nearly six hours inside the house the night of Jan. 7 into the following morning.

Evidenceshowed a cellphone and multiple devices were active on the property during that time, according to the warrant. The only people allowed to be there would've been the administers of the estate, but they weren't present.

Advertisement

Authorities say they linked the woman to someone who attended Biffle’s celebration of life, and said license plate readers placed her husband’s truck near the home that night.

The warrants also describe alleged financial crimes. Investigators say that bank, Venmo and PayPal accounts tied to the Biffles were accessed online using personal information, with phone numbers and email addresses changed to gain control of funds.Moneywas then allegedly transferred to accounts not belonging to the family and used for purchases, according to the warrant.

At least one fraudulent check tied to Biffle’s business interests was cashed, and other attempts were made to access accounts. The activity occurred across multiple states. The sheriff would not say whether the same suspects in the break-in are being investigated for the financial crimes, saying the department is waiting for more evidence.

Meanwhile, the plane crash sparked lawsuits against the estates of Biffle and the pilot Dennis Dutton, who was killed along with his son.

On April 17, the estates of Dutton and his son sued Biffle’s estate for at least $15 million each, alleging Biffle failed to properly maintain the plane and operated it in a defective condition. The claims include lost income and “pre-death pain and suffering.”

In February, Biffle’s ex-wife, Nicole Biffle, filed a notice of claim against Dutton’s estate on behalf of the couple’s 14-year-old daughter’s estate, seeking at least $10 million for wrongful death.

byAlex Forten

in

May 04, 2026

Police allege friends of NASCAR’s Greg Biffle broke into his home weeks after he died in helicopter crash

Less than a month after NASCAR driver Greg Biffle and his family died in a plane crash last year, investigators allege two "friend...

Read More

NBA top rookie Cooper Flagg gets a ride from NASCAR rookie Connor Zilisch

FORT WORTH, Texas (AP) — NBA top rookie Cooper Flagg got a fast ride on the track Sunday before theNASCAR race in Texaswith another 19-year-old, Cup Series rookie Connor Zilisch.

NASCAR Texas Auto Racing

A week after being named theNBA Rookie of the Year, the Dallas Mavericks' 6-foot-9 forward was the honorary pace car driver for the race in Texas.

But several hours before leading the 38-car field to the green flag at the 1 1/2-mile track, Flagg was the passenger in that 2026 Chevrolet Corvette. It was driven then by Zilisch, who is in his first full Cup season with Trackhouse Racing after winning 10 races in NASCAR's second-tier series last year.

“We got going pretty fast, and I think half the ride I was more scared of what was going on,” Flagg said. “I've never been in a car going that fast, so it was pretty cool.”

Zilisch was driving well over 100 mph while giving Flagg an up-close look at the track.

So what do a couple of 19-year-old guys talk about while going around the track?

Advertisement

“I don’t know much about racing, but I think just being able to connect on the fact that we’re both young in our respective sports ... that was really cool, and to be able to talk to someone that’s going through a lot of similar things at a time in your life," Flagg said. "There’s just not many people that have been through this type of stuff at this age, so I think it was cool to connect on that.”

It was the first time Flagg, who was born and grew up in Maine, has been to any NASCAR track. But his parents in 1999 started going regularly to races at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, with Tony Stewart being their favorite driver.

Flagg said his parents, who were with him, hadn't been to a NASCAR race in a while since they got busy following him and his two brothers. During their visit to Texas, they got to meet personally with seven-time Cup champion Jimmie Johnson, four-time champ Jeff Gordon and owner-driver Denny Hamlin.

Flagg set a host of records as an NBA teenager and edged his former Duke teammate Kon Knueppel for the NBA rookie award announced last Monday. Flagg was the first rookie sinceMichael Jordan, now a NASCAR owner, in 1984-85 to lead his team in points, rebounds, assists and steals.

AP NBA:https://apnews.com/nbaand AP auto racing:https://apnews.com/apf-AutoRacing

byAlex Forten

in

May 04, 2026

NBA top rookie Cooper Flagg gets a ride from NASCAR rookie Connor Zilisch

FORT WORTH, Texas (AP) — NBA top rookie Cooper Flagg got a fast ride on the track Sunday before theNASCAR race in Texaswith another 19-...

Read More

Braves place Ronald Acuña Jr. on the 10-day injured list with a strained hamstring

DENVER (AP) — TheAtlanta Bravesplaced star right fielder Ronald Acuña Jr. on the 10-day injured list because ofa strained left hamstringon Sunday.

Braves Rockies Baseball

The Braves owned the best record in baseball at 24-10 entering Sunday's game against theColorado Rockies. But they'll have to get by for now without one of their top players.

Acuña leftSaturday night’s gamein the second inning. He was attempting to run out a ground ball before he pulled up about halfway down the base path and grabbed at his hamstring.

Advertisement

The five-time All-Star and 2023 National League MVP is batting .252 with two home runs, nine RBIs, 17 runs and a team-high seven steals. He had played in all 34 games after a torn ACL he suffered in May 2024 limited him to a combined 144 games over the past two seasons.

The Braves activated right-hander Spencer Strider from the injured list prior to Sunday's start. The 2023 All-Star was set to make his season debut after being sidelined with a strained oblique. The Braves optioned right-hander Hunter Stratton to Triple-A Gwinnett following Saturday's game to make room for him. They also selected outfielder José Azócar's contract from the minor league club on Sunday with Acuña going on the injured list.

AP MLB:https://apnews.com/hub/mlb

byAlex Forten

in

May 03, 2026

Braves place Ronald Acuña Jr. on the 10-day injured list with a strained hamstring

DENVER (AP) — TheAtlanta Bravesplaced star right fielder Ronald Acuña Jr. on the 10-day injured list because ofa strained left hamstrin...

Read More

Three family members charged with assaulting Turning Point USA reporter Savanah Hernandez in Minnesota

Three family members have been indicted after allegedly assaulting aTurning Point USAjournalistduring aprotestagainst immigration enforcement operations inMinnesota.

Christopher and DeYanna Ostroushko and their daughter, Paige, were each charged by a federal grand jury with one count ofassault. Theindictment, unsealed Wednesday, additionally charges Christopher and Paige each with one count of interfering with a federally protected activity.

Christopher Ostroushko also faces state charges of misdemeanor assault, according to the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office.

Attorneys for the Ostroushkos said they will mount a strong defense and emphasized that an indictment doesn't mean the family has been convicted of any crime.

Community members have continued to protest in opposition to immigration enforcement efforts by President Donald Trump’s administration in the weeks since federal officers’ presence in the Twin Cities was dramatically scaled back. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has used the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building at Fort Snelling as a short-term holding facility, and the area out front has become a hub of anti-ICE activity.

Widely shared video taken by Turning Point USA contributor Savanah Hernandez outside the Whipple building on April 11 begins with Paige blowing a whistle close to Hernandez’s face. Video from other vantage points shows Hernandez with her hand protecting her face, sometimes pushing back against Paige. The two then tussle.

Hernandez says, “Get away from me.”

Paige pushes Hernandez, who falls back against a fence.

In the moments after, DeYanna and Christopher separately confront Hernandez, as does Paige again.

Christopher Ostroushko “forcefully shoved the victim in the back, head first to the ground," the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office said in its statement. It also said there was insufficient evidence to bring state charges against the others involved.

Advertisement

Throughout, others on the scene tried to de-escalate and separate them.

After the April 11 incident, Hernandez said her glasses were broken, she was concussed with a sore neck and back, and her legs were scraped, according to posts on the social platform X. She wrote that she was talking with police about pressing charges.

James Cook, an attorney representing the family, said the videos that have circulated don’t show everything, and he believes the family will be able to provide a “vigorous defense.”

“We think that there's a lot of things in the videos that provide a means to exonerate," he said.

The family was regular protesters at the Whipple building to provide “a voice and a demonstration against Metro Surge," Cook said. He added the Ostroushkos have since been threatened online, and DeYanna and Christopher have both lost their jobs.

“They wish they could turn back the clock,” Cook said. “They wish that things didn’t turn out how they did.”

The Ostroushkos were summoned to appear before a federal judge on May 12.

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said in a statement Wednesday that the Department of Justice will always “punish unhinged acts of political violence.”

“Hernandez was allegedly surrounded, physically assaulted, and shoved to the ground — simply because she was identified by the defendants as a conservative journalist,” Blanche said. “That is NOT ‘peaceful protest.’”

Hernandez said in a post that she was “incredibly grateful to see our justice system at work.”

Hernandez did not immediately reply to a request for comment via email or direct message.

byAlex Forten

in

May 01, 2026

Three family members charged with assaulting Turning Point USA reporter Savanah Hernandez in Minnesota

Three family members have been indicted after allegedly assaulting aTurning Point USAjournalistduring aprotestagainst immigration enfor...

Read More

More tenants could save an average £1,140 after Labour’s rental reforms, research finds

Tenants will soon find it easier to save potentially thousands of pounds asLabour’s flagship rental reformsempower them to challenge rent increases proposed by landlords.

Research fromanti-poverty charityZ2K has found that renters who challenge their rent rises are on average £1,140 a year better off than they would be had they accepted the increase.

In 71 per cent of applications for these ‘market rent determinations’ – which are decided by a tribunal – renters have been successful insecuring a lower rentthan what was proposed, the findings show.

But despite this high success rate, only 1,000 cases have been dealt with over the past two years, representing a tiny fraction of the 5.5 million private rented households across the UK.

In one case last year, a household in Hounslow that had been in the property was able to challenge an increase from £1,000 to £1,450 £450 a month by applying to the tribunal. It found that, while the market rent in the area was £1,400 a month, the poor condition of the property meant the maximum rent should be £1,150 – saving the tenant £3,600 a year over the proposed price.

Five per cent of cases have also seen orders to make the currentrentlower. This was the case for a tenant in Newham who was paying £650 a month to live in an HMO and asked to start paying £950. At tribunal, it was found that the property breached a number of safety requirements, and so the rent was lowered the rent to £540 – saving them £4,920.

It is especially worthtenantsliving in poor housing conditions challenging their rent increases, the Z2K research shows, with the tribunal applying deductions from the market rent due to property condition in 77 per cent of cases. The average deduction in these cases is £2,160 per year.

The research comes asLabour’s Renter’s Rights Act is brought into law, bringing a series of sweeping changes to the system that will empower tenants to challenge rent rises at a tribunal

Chief amongst these is the removal of controversial Section 21 ‘no-fault’ eviction notices, which gave landlords the power to remove a tenant without reason at two months’ notice. Housing charities warned that these were often used in retaliation when a tenant challenged a rent increase, meaning there was a risk in doing so.

Bringing another risk was the possibility that the tribunal could decide to actually increase the rent above the amount the landlord was asking for, which can no longer happen under new rules. Although this was rarer (occurring in 11 per cent per cent of cases), the average increase in these cases was a massive £2,465 a year.

Other changes brought in include:

• Landlords can only increase rents once a year, and only within market rates

• Approved rent increases can no longer be backdated from the date given by the landlord, but must begin after the tribunal’s decision

• The tribunal will also be able to delay the new rent by up to two months to prevent undue hardship

Samuel Thomas, senior policy adviser at the anti-povertycharityZ2K, said: “The Renters’ Rights Act will make welcome changes to how renters can challenge unfair rent increases. Z2K’s new research shows that when renters are able to make use of these protections, the benefits can be significant, putting hundreds of pounds a year back into household budgets and making homes more secure.”

Advertisement

“We are calling on the government to give clear and consistent backing to these reforms, and to ensure renters are supported and confident in using their new rights to challenge unreasonable increases.”

An MHCLG spokesperson said: “For too long, tenants have been afraid or unable to challenge unreasonable rent increases and that changes today.

“Our landmark Renters’ Rights Act is now in force empowering private rented tenants to challenge unreasonable rent increases, without fear of eviction, whilst enabling landlords to only increase rent once a year.”

How to challenge a rent increase

Under the new Renters’ Rights Act, the process for challenging a rent hike has been streamlined to better protect tenants. Landlords must now give a formal Section 13 notice to propose an increase, and can only do this once a year.

Most experts advice trying to negotiate with the landlord first, using evidence such as local market rates or the condition of the property.

If an agreement can’t be reached, the tenant must apply to the tribunal before the rent increase is due to start. Under the new rules, landlords have to give at least two months’ notice of this on the Section 13.

To manage anticipated increased demand on the service, it is no longer free for renters to do this, and the new cost is £47.

Applying for a market rent determination requires a ‘Rents1’ form to be filled out, which can be found on the government website. This cannot be submitted online, and instead must be posted or hand delivered to the tribunal office.

It can take up to 10 weeks for the tribunal to make a decision. If the rent increase is due to start in that period, the tenant must begin paying it.

When gathering evidence, Citizens Advice advises: “Try to find out what others pay for similar properties in your area. You could speak to a local letting agent, look online or ask friends and family. You can then use this as evidence.”

“Any evidence you get will need to be for a property that's similar to yours. For example, if you live in a one-bedroom furnished flat, compare it with another one-bedroom furnished flat in your area.”

In most cases, the tribunal is be based only on the evidence given, but it could be in person. There may also be a request to inspect the property.

byAlex Forten

in

May 01, 2026

More tenants could save an average £1,140 after Labour’s rental reforms, research finds

Tenants will soon find it easier to save potentially thousands of pounds asLabour’s flagship rental reformsempower them to challenge re...

Read More

Request for FIFA President Gianni Infantino to be given a police escort is denied by Canadian police

TORONTO (AP) — A request for FIFA President Gianni Infantino to be given a police escort while in Vancouver, British Columbia, for FIFA meetings has been denied, the Vancouver Police Department confirmed Wednesday.

"Formal motorcades where traffic is stopped are reserved for heads of state," Deputy Chief Don Chapman said in a statement.

"As the FIFA executive do not meet Internationally Protected Person (IPP) standards that would warrant such an escort (closing roads, intersections, not adhering to traffic devices, etc.), the request was declined," Chapman said.

FIFA did not immediately return a message seeking comment.

Advertisement

Soccer's governing body is holding meetings this week in Vancouver, one of the 16 sites of World Cup matches in a tournament co-hosted by Canada, the United States and Mexico from June 11 to July 19.

FIFA’s Congress, a meeting of representatives from all its members, is scheduled for Thursday.

AP soccer:https://apnews.com/hub/soccer

byAlex Forten

in

May 01, 2026

Request for FIFA President Gianni Infantino to be given a police escort is denied by Canadian police

TORONTO (AP) — A request for FIFA President Gianni Infantino to be given a police escort while in Vancouver, British Columbia, for FIFA...

Read More

Drake Maye gives support for Mike Vrabel amid Dianna Russini controversy

New England PatriotsquarterbackDrake Mayeoffered his support for Mike Vrabel in his first comments since the 50-year-old coach'srelationship with former NFL reporter Dianna Russinicame under scrutiny.

Maye was asked about the drama surrounding Vrabel at an April 29 event promoting the upcoming Best Buddies Challenge: Hyannis Port. His response?

"We’re here for coach. We love coach, what he does for us, what he’s done for us this past year – you can’t speak into words,"Maye told Jonathan Hall of 7News. "Just thankful he’s our head coach. I know he’s dealing with some stuff off the field and out of the coaching world, we’re here for him. And I know he’s going to come back."

Maye's comments come after Vrabel missed Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft to"begin to seek counseling" and be with his family. His decision came after he and Russini were photographed together at an exclusive Arizona resort ahead of the annual league meetings in late March.

The New York Post also published photos of the two interlocking hands and hugging. The outlet laterreleased what appeared to be more photos of the two– these from a New York bar and dating back to March 2020 – on April 23, the day the draft began.

VRABEL-RUSSINI TIMELINE:Patriots coach steps away from NFL draft

Vrabel addressed stepping away from the Patriots for Day 3 in a conversation with reporters later that day.

"My priorities are my family and this football team – in that order. And there is a balance there that I am going to create," Vrabel said. "My family needs me this weekend, and that's where I'll be."

Advertisement

While Vrabel was absent from the team on April 25,he returned to the Patriots' facility on April 27.

Mike Vrabel’s career has taken him from standout player to head coach, with stops across multiple eras of the NFL.

See the moments that chart Vrabel’s path through the years and onto the sidelines.

Above, Mike Vrabel speaks as he is introduced as head coach of the New England Patriots during a press conference at Gillette Stadium on January 13, 2025, in Foxborough, Massachusetts.

" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />

See Mike Vrabel’s journey from Patriots standout to NFL head coach

Mike Vrabel’s career has taken him from standout player to head coach, with stops across multiple eras of the NFL.See the moments that chart Vrabel’s path through the years and onto the sidelines.Above, Mike Vrabel speaks as he is introduced as head coach of the New England Patriots during a press conference at Gillette Stadium on January 13, 2025, in Foxborough, Massachusetts.

Since then, several players – including tight endHunter Henryand linebackerRobert Spillane– have been asked about the maelstrom surrounding Vrabel.

Henry made it clear his focus was on preparing for the 2026 season but credited Vrabel with doing "a great job" addressing players amid his off-the-field issues.

"It's been the same Vrabes bringing a lot of energy in the room,"Henry told reporters on April 28. "Obviously, he addressed it, and that's kinda all I'll say about it."

Meanwhile, Spillane noted Vrabel's situation hasn't greatly impacted the team's ability to accomplish work during the NFL's offseason program.

"Coach coaches football and he keeps the main thing, the main thing," Spillane said. "I know he’s dealing with personal issues, but when we’re in the building, we speak football."

Mike Vrabel gets standing ovation from Patriots fans

Maye and the Patriots players aren't the only ones who have offered support for Vrabel. New England's coach got a standing ovation at a Patriots season ticket holder event on April 28.

USA TODAY Sports' Chris Bumbaca also contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:Drake Maye offers support for Mike Vrabel: 'We're here for coach'

byAlex Forten

in

April 30, 2026

Drake Maye gives support for Mike Vrabel amid Dianna Russini controversy

New England PatriotsquarterbackDrake Mayeoffered his support for Mike Vrabel in his first comments since the 50-year-old coach'srel...

Read More