Stories from London · United Kingdom

Sam Kerr scored two goals as Chelsea defeated Everton 4-1 in the English Women's Super League. The performance makes Kerr Chelsea's equal all-time top scorer in the league. Teammate Ellie Carpenter also scored during the match. Chelsea's victory follows a semifinal win where Enzo Fernandez scored in the 23rd minute against the Blues. Chelsea is scheduled to face Manchester City in the final in mid-May. This achievement brings her total to 63 goals.

Democratic Representative Roe Kenner has called for transparency regarding the Jeffrey Epstein abuse scandal. Kenner requested that the British King meet with him and Thomas Messi to hold those responsible for the Epstein abuse accountable. The demand comes amid discussions regarding the British monarchy's connections to the case. The request comes as the King prepares for diplomatic engagements amidst domestic political criticism in the United States. The call for involvement aims to address the shadow of the Epstein affair during the royal visit. Commentators expressed dissatisfaction with the King's leadership regarding an institution that failed crime survivors. The discussion highlighted the King's position as head of state and his familial connection to Prince Andrew.

Influential landscape designer Nigel Dunnett has died at the age of 63. Dunnett was recognized for his naturalistic approach to high-profile projects, including the Tower of London Superbloom. His work is considered highly influential in contemporary landscape design.

Economic growth in the United Kingdom is expected to decline despite a 0.5% growth rate recorded in February. Analysts suggest that ministers are acknowledging this downturn off the record. The government faces potential public blame if economic growth fails to meet promises. This follows a period where the Labour party heavily criticized the previous administration's handling of the Ukraine invasion.

Jacob Kiplimau completed a marathon in less than two hours.

He improved the previous 2023 record held by Kelvin Kiptum by 65 seconds. The performance was 7 seconds faster than the prior mark held by Kelvin Kiptum. Ethiopian runner Yomif Kejelcha finished in second place with a time of 2:01:41. The achievement occurred despite hot conditions and a fast pace maintained through the halfway mark. Observers noted the feat was unexpected given the history of near misses on this specific course. The broadcaster noted that while London is not as fast as Berlin or Chicago, this performance represents a major human achievement. The winner achieved the feat during an official race in London, unlike Eliud Kipchoge's non-official 2016 sub-two-hour run in Vienna. Advancements in nutrition and technology contributed to the speed. The winner finished 11 seconds ahead of Sava.

Science and Technology Secretary Liz Kendall stated that Britain's national security is at risk due to over-reliance on a small number of multi-billion-dollar American technology firms. Kendall said that the United Kingdom must prioritize a critical mission to develop its own sovereign AI capabilities. The remarks were made in the context of national security and technological independence.

The scheduled state visit of the King is set to begin tomorrow despite recent discussions between the palace and US officials. President Trump previously described the King as brave during recent remarks. This follows a period of increased political violence in the United States.

President Trump is hosting the King and Queen during a period of potential food supply instability. Minister Darren Jones is leading a ministerial group to monitor supply chains and stock levels to plan for contingencies. Officials warn that the worst-case scenario could result in food shortages, including chicken and pork, by the summer. Rising prices for everyday goods and fuel are being attributed to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz shipping lane. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed solidarity via X following the attempted attack on Donald Trump, noting security services prevented serious injuries and a wounded police officer is recovering.

Kenyan runner Sebastian Sarway has made history by completing the London Marathon in under two hours without the use of pacemakers. The discussion notes that improved nutrition and shoe technology contributed to these results. Some debate exists regarding the fairness of using advanced footwear in competitive running. Sebastian achieved a marathon time of 1 hour, 59 minutes, and 30 seconds. His coach, Claudio Berradelli, described the performance as incredible. The runner-up, Yomov Kajalcha of Ethiopia, also recorded a sub-2-hour time. Athlete confirmed as the first to run a competitive marathon in under two hours. This achievement is noted as being distinct from previous sub-two-hour marathon runs. Sebastian Sawe of Kenya won the London Marathon. Ethiopia's Tigist Assefa also set a new personal best for the women's race. Sawe completed the London Marathon with a time of 1:59:09.