标签： Antigua and Barbuda

Former England football captain Sir David Beckham has been officially knighted in recognition of his outstanding contributions to football and British society. The 50-year-old sports icon, who was named on King Charles’ Birthday Honours list earlier this year, received the prestigious accolade during a ceremony held at Windsor Castle in Berkshire on Tuesday. Beckham expressed immense pride in the honor, stating, “I couldn’t be prouder. People know how patriotic I am – I love my country. The monarchy has always been important to my family, and it’s something I’m deeply proud of.”

Beckham was accompanied by his wife Victoria, who designed the suit he wore for the occasion, and his parents Sandra and David. Reflecting on the event, Beckham shared, “King Charles was quite impressed with my suit. He’s the most elegantly dressed man I know, and he’s inspired many of my looks over the years.”

With a storied career spanning over two decades, Beckham represented England 115 times, captaining the national team from 2000 to 2006. He played in three World Cups and two European Championships, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. Beyond his football achievements, Beckham has been a prominent figure in humanitarian efforts, working with UNICEF since 2005 and establishing a fund in his name in 2015. He also played a pivotal role in securing the 2012 Olympics for London.

In addition to his philanthropic work, Beckham has ventured into football ownership, co-owning League Two side Salford City and MLS team Inter Miami. He also serves as an ambassador for the King’s Foundation, supporting King Charles’ education initiatives and efforts to connect young people with nature. Beckham’s knighthood is a testament to his enduring legacy both on and off the pitch.

In a heartwarming display of community support, the Nat Pan My Team Community League has donated essential mobility aids and supplies to Wadadlian Peace Assisted Living in Antigua and Barbuda. The donation, which included a wheelchair, a walker, and adult diapers, was presented during a small ceremony at the facility located on Luther George Place in Lower Gambles. The event was attended by residents, staff, and executive members of the league.

Freston Ireland, President of the Nat Pan My Team Community League, highlighted the motivation behind the initiative. He explained that many elderly care homes struggle with maintaining consistent supplies due to delayed payments and limited family support for some residents. The league’s efforts aim to provide sustained assistance through donations of essential items such as wheelchairs, walkers, canes, shower chairs, bedpans, bed covers, adult diapers, and cleaning supplies.

Ireland emphasized that the project was launched in response to the neglect faced by some residents and the financial challenges encountered by care homes. The league is committed to ensuring that seniors live with dignity and comfort by continuing to partner with local care facilities. A representative from Wadadlian Peace Assisted Living expressed gratitude for the donation, noting that the mobility aids and supplies will significantly enhance the daily lives of residents.

Looking ahead, Ireland revealed plans to expand the league’s outreach to include other elderly care homes, preschools, and daycare centers. Additionally, the organization intends to host youth football tournaments and community fundraisers to further support local initiatives.

The nation of Antigua and Barbuda came together on Tuesday to honor the life and legacy of Kenneth Nathaniel Francis, affectionately known as “Nat Moses,” during an official funeral service at St. George’s Anglican Church. Francis, a revered broadcaster, master of ceremonies, and former Member of Parliament, passed away on October 8, leaving behind a legacy of cultural and political contributions that spanned decades. His unmistakable baritone voice and unwavering commitment to public service made him a household name and a beloved figure across the islands. The church was filled with mourners from all walks of life, including Governor General Sir Rodney Williams, Prime Minister Gaston Browne, and Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle, reflecting the profound impact Francis had on his community. Senator Michael Freeland delivered a heartfelt eulogy, describing Francis as the voice that carried the nation through carnival, late-night radio, and countless cultural events. His broadcasting career, which lasted over four decades, was marked by his dedication to the performing arts and civic engagement. Sir Stedroy Benjamin, a childhood friend, paid tribute by reciting lines from Rudyard Kipling’s “If—,” a poem that encapsulated Francis’s resilience and integrity. Family members shared emotional tributes, recalling his humility, humor, and kindness. Francis’s brother expressed pride in his sibling’s accomplishments but lamented that he was never given a well-paying job in broadcasting, a sentiment that resonated with many in attendance. The service featured scripture readings, hymns, and a homily that celebrated Francis’s life of service and faith. His casket, draped in the national flag, was carried by the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda to the Anglican Cemetery at Fishers Creek, where he was laid to rest. The flag was presented to his widow, Yvette Southwell-Francis, as a symbol of national gratitude. The ceremony concluded with Francis’s son delivering his father’s iconic radio sign-off, “Good morning, world,” bringing tears and applause from the crowd—a fitting farewell to a man whose voice will forever echo in the hearts of Antiguans and Barbudans.

In response to over 20 earthquakes recorded in Antigua within a single week, The University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus is organizing a crucial public webinar on seismic preparedness. Scheduled for Thursday, November 6th, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. AST, this free virtual event aims to equip residents with essential knowledge on earthquake safety. The webinar will feature insights from leading experts, including representatives from the UWI Seismic Research Centre, the National Office of Disaster Services (NODS), and UWI’s STA & FIC Teams. Topics will cover recent seismic activity, national safety protocols, and community readiness strategies. This initiative underscores the urgent need for public awareness and preparedness in the face of increasing seismic threats across the Caribbean. The event is a collaborative effort involving the UWI Seismic Research Centre, NODS, The Guild of Students, and Students of MGMT3089. Attendees can join via Zoom using the provided link: https://bit.ly/FICEarthquakeWebinar. Media inquiries and RSVPs should be directed to the event organizers.

The Ministry of Works’ Project Implementation Management Unit (PIMU) has announced the continuation of single-lane traffic on several major roads in Antigua and Barbuda to facilitate critical infrastructure repairs. The affected routes include Sir Sydney Walling Highway (SSWH), Valley Road North (VRN), and Anchorage Road (AR).

On Sir Sydney Walling Highway, extensive work such as asphalt repairs, junction enhancements, concrete installations, and guardrail setups will proceed westward from Willikies, commencing daily at 8:00 a.m. Similarly, Valley Road North will undergo asphalt repairs in Bolans, starting at the same time each day. Anchorage Road will see sidewalk rehabilitation and drainage improvements near Brydens, also beginning at 8:00 a.m.

To ensure safety, flag persons will be stationed at the sites, and motorists are urged to adhere to their instructions, especially with heavy-duty equipment operating nearby. Despite the disruptions, all businesses in the affected areas remain open.

The roadworks are part of the Second Road Infrastructure Rehabilitation Project, a government initiative aimed at enhancing the nation’s transportation network. C.O. Williams Ltd., the contractor overseeing the project, has expressed regret for any inconvenience caused and encourages stakeholders to adjust their travel plans to accommodate potential delays. For further inquiries, the public can contact the C.O. Williams Project office at 562-9573.

Authorities in Antigua and Barbuda are intensifying efforts to apprehend suspects linked to a brazen shooting incident that unfolded in the Golden Grove Extension area on Monday, November 3, 2025. The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda reported that the incident occurred between 2:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. on Mount Zion Baptist Drive. According to preliminary investigations, the driver of a green Toyota Vitz was allegedly pursued by unknown assailants in a silver Toyota RAV4. The occupants of the RAV4 reportedly pulled alongside the victim’s vehicle and opened fire. Miraculously, the driver escaped unharmed and promptly reported the incident to the Gray’s Farm Police Station. The police have launched a full-scale investigation and are urging anyone with information to come forward. Witnesses or individuals with relevant details are encouraged to contact the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) at 462-3913, the Gray’s Farm Police Station at 462-0481, or the Crimestoppers Hotline at 800-Tips (8477). The incident has raised concerns about public safety in the area, and authorities are working diligently to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.