Sir Sadiq Khan has given a brutal assessment of the government’s first 14 months in power – but insisted there’s time to turn it around.

In a football analogy, the London Mayor told a fringe event at Labour’s annual party conference that his party was the equivalent of two-nil down after playing less than 20 minutes of the match.

Ipsos revealed yesterday that Sir Keir Starmer is more unpopular than any other Prime Minister in the history of the company’s approval polls, which date back to Margaret Thatcher.

That means he has a lower rating than Boris Johnson in the aftermath of Partygate, or Liz Truss after her mini-budget.

Asked about the findings, Sir Sadiq told an event organised by The Times that his party ‘can’t pretend things are better than they are’.

He said voters were angry about the lethargic pace of change since the election, which he blamed on the ‘inheritance’ left by the Tories, before calling on the PM to ‘accelerate the pace of delivery’.

The Mayor continued: ‘We’ve also got to be better at telling the story we’re trying to do.

‘If this was a game of football, what I’d say is it’s a 90-minute game, we’ve played almost 20 minutes and we’re two-nil down.

‘We’re two-nil down, and we’ve got to make sure we use the rest of our time in the game, three-and-a-half years, to turn it around. I think it’s possible.’

A Liverpool supporter, Sir Sadiq used the example of the time his team were three-nil down at half time in the 2005 Champions League final, only to defeat Milan on penalties.

It was the latest in a series of assessments from top Labour figures at the conference, pondering how their party has fallen so quickly so fast.

Among the most high-profile has been Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham, who has been scathing in his criticism of the government as questions swirl around a potential bid from him to replace Sir Keir.

Speaking at a different event taking place simultaneously with the Sadiq Khan Q&A, Burnham said his intention has simply been to suggest new approaches.

He said: ‘The thing that I’m doing is putting forward ideas that in any scenario – whoever is the leader – I think Labour needs to take on board. That is what I’m saying.

‘The only thing I’ve launched is a debate about how do we get a plan together to beat Reform. I’m of course talking about the General Election.’

Like his London counterpart, Burnham also called on the government to ‘tell a story about this country and where do we want this country to go’.

Elsewhere in the Times event, Sir Sadiq declined to follow the PM in describing Reform’s recently announced deportation policy as ‘racist’.

He told the audience: ‘I think it’s a really loaded word, and so I’m very careful when I use it for the obvious reason, I don’t want to devalue this really powerful word’.

However, the Mayor conceded the occasional need to ‘call out people’, pointing out he recently used the word to describe US President Donald Trump.

This afternoon, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood outlined Labour’s plans to reform the legal immigration system with a shake-up of indefinite leave to remain.

In a speech on the main conference stage, she announced the status would only be granted to people who meet a number of conditions after arriving in the country.

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A gunman disguised as a Deliveroo rider shot an eight-year-old girl and her father in front of their family, a court has heard.

Jazz Reid, 34, allegedly shot the child twice and her 34-year-old father five times on November 24.

The father and daughter, who both survived, were sat with relatives in a car in Ladbroke Grove, West London, when eleven shots rang out.

Reid is accused of carrying out three separate shootings, always in his delivery rider disguise, between October and November last year.

Police found a 9mm self-loading pistol loaded with 17 live rounds hidden beneath a concrete slab outside his home, jurors heard.

Each shooting was planned and executed with ‘precision’, prosecutor Michael Goodwin KC told Old Bailey jurors on Monday.

Reid would drive a hire car to the area, change into his Deliveroo disguise – complete with a takeaway box – and cycle an e-bike to his intended targets, it is claimed.

In the first shooting on October 9, Reid allegedly fired twice, hitting Ameile Buncombe in the thigh at the victim’s home in Notting Hill.

In body-worn video shown to jurors, the victim told police the assailant was carrying a ‘kangaroo’ bag, before correcting it to ‘Deliveroo’, as he was treated at the scene.

On November 11, Reid fired four shots at a north London address linked to the father, who was the subject of the third attack, it is claimed.

No injuries were reported to police on that occasion.

Thirteen days later, Reid allegedly shot the eight-year-old girl and her father in their car on Southern Row in Ladbroke Grove.

Mr Goodwin said: ‘Eleven shots were fired, five hit (the father) in the back, chest, abdomen and pelvis area.

‘Two shots hit his daughter in her buttocks and foot.

‘Both (victims) and other family members were sat in a car used regularly by the family.

‘They had nowhere to escape to when the defendant opened fire on them.’

He continued: ‘Each of these three shootings are alleged to have been targeted shootings. They were planned and executed with precision.’

Reid would drive hire cars from his Uxbridge home and park near an associate’s flat on the Swinbrook Estate in North Kensington, the court heard.

He allegedly used the flat as a ‘cover location’ where he could park his hire car without arousing suspicion.

He would collect the e-bike and Deliveroo outfit from the flat before cycling to the location of the attacks, it was claimed.

Mr Goodwin said: ‘He was disguised as a Deliveroo driver when he carried out the shootings. All three occasions involved a Deliveroo driver riding an e-bike.’

After each shooting, Reid returned his disguise to the Swinbrook Estate flat and drove the hire car home, it is claimed.

Mr Goodwin told jurors: ‘The defendant was arrested on November 26 while driving the hire car, and his home address in Uxbridge was searched.

‘Just outside the home, under a slab of concrete, officers found a 9mm self-loading pistol loaded with 17 live rounds.’

The court heard Reid’s DNA was found on the grip and muzzle of the pistol forensically linked to the third shooting.

A different gun was used in the first two shootings, with the defendant’s partial DNA identified on casings at the second scene, the court heard.

Mr Goodwin said: ‘This defendant had access to two separate firearms used to carry out all three shootings. The three shootings are forensically linked.’

It is alleged the defendant tried to cover his tracks by switching his sim card and changing his mobile phone handset.

But the evidence allegedly showed he phoned his contact on the Swinbrook Estate shortly before each incident.

The defendant’s car journeys to north-west London were tracked by police on CCTV, traffic cameras and through cell site data, jurors were told.

The e-bike and Deliveroo disguise were later recovered from the Swinbrook Estate address.

Reid has denied the attempted murder of the father and wounding the girl with intent. Neither victim can be identified for legal reasons.

He has also pleaded not guilty to wounding Mr Buncombe with intent on October 9 last year and a string of firearms offences relating to the incidents.

The Old Bailey trial continues.

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Locals have shared their concerns about safety near a London park after a man was fatally stabbed yesterday.

Police swarmed Camden Gardens yesterday afternoon after a 44-year-old man was stabbed and later died from his injuries.

The incident took place at about 3.30pm with families and dog walkers in the park. No arrests have been made as homicide officers hunt for the attacker. 

Locals said the stabbing took place near a makeshift shelter set up by homeless people who have moved into the gardens. A police cordon remains around the green where medical equipment used to help the stabbed man is strewn across the ground. 

Witnesses told Metro how families ran from the ‘horrific’ scene.

Mark Hanley, a school handyman with a young daughter, told Metro: ‘There were police everywhere, loads of them. There have been problems with the park.

‘It used to be nice for walking the dog, but there are now tents and shelters where homeless people are staying. It’s become a bit of a no-go zone, which is such a shame.

‘The council really need to do something about it. I don’t want my daughter going near it, it’s such a shame. It’s a horrific thing to happen.’

Metro has contacted Camden Council for a statement.

Police tape is still surrounding the park as detectives trawl nearby CCTV and forensics officers scour the area for clues.

Eva Kovacs, 31, a mother of three, said: ‘I heard shouting, looked out of my window and saw families running away from the park. There were police going in, and one said, ‘Someone had been stabbed.’

‘When we heard it was a murder, we were very shocked because it was the middle of the day and there were a lot of people around.’

Eva said the park is a ‘magnet’ for crime, with people going in and out of the tents ‘all the time’.

She added: ‘We know the homeless people need somewhere to go, but this situation is very serious.’

A third local total Metro: ‘Enough is enough, we have complained about the noise and problems in the park, which we cannot go in because of anti-social behaviour. Now that there has been a murder, the council need to act.’

Councillor Richard Olszewski, Leader of Camden Council, said: ‘We are deeply saddened by what has happened this weekend, and our thoughts right now are with the loved ones of the person who has died.

‘We are working closely with the police to support them on their investigation and to provide reassurance to our communities. For now, the park remains closed as a crime scene, and we have joint patrols in place with the police to provide visibility and reassurance in the area for the rest of the week. We are also providing outreach support to people sleeping rough here.

‘I encourage anyone who has any information about what happened at the weekend to contact the police, or report via Crimestoppers anonymously. I know our communities will pull together, and I want to reassure them we are there for them at this difficult time.’

A police statement said: ‘Met officers attended the scene alongside the London Ambulance Service (LAS) who treated a 44-year-old man for stab wounds before taking him to hospital.

‘Despite the best efforts of the emergency services, he sadly died.’

Borough Commander Jason Sewart, who leads policing in Camden, has said: ‘My team are working at pace to establish the full circumstances that led to this man’s tragic death in Camden Gardens.

‘Our thoughts remain with the victim’s family and friends at this very difficult time. They continue to be supported by specialist officers.

‘A crime scene remains in place and residents can expect to see increased patrols in the local area as we carry out enquiries.

‘We urge anyone in or around Camden Gardens to look at any CCTV camera footage and share anything that may be of use with police.

‘This was an isolated incident and we do not believe there to be any threat to the wider public.’

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The seasons are turning, and London is coming into its own. As the air turns crisp and jumpers come out, the parks of the capital transform into magnificent tapestries of reds, oranges, and golds. 

It’s the perfect time to pull on your walking boots and explore our green spaces as they shift into autumn. 

From royal parks to woodland trails, London has dozens of routes where you can enjoy the changing leaves up close and personal.

Each one highlights a different side of the city – whether it’s history, a family-friendly stroll, or a quiet corner, there’s a route for everyone.

The Hampstead circular walk 

Tucked away in north London, with cobbled lanes, cosy pubs and Georgian houses, Hampstead feels more like a quaint village than a part of bustling London.

Its charm draws you in long before you step onto the Heath –  a vast landscape of woodlands, meadows, and ponds that provides welcome respite from the febrile energy of the Underground.  

The best way to take it in is the Hampstead Circular walk, which starts in Hampstead village, just up from the Tube station, along Heath Street.

From here, it runs up Holly Hill and Hampstead Grove, passing the Holly Bush, an 18th-century pub that makes a tempting early stop, before reaching the entrance to Hampstead Heath. 

Once on the Heath, the path takes you through a mix of oak-lined trails and open meadows. Make sure to take a breather at the ponds, watch the colours of autumn ripple on the surface, and look out for brave swimmers.

A highlight of the route is the climb to Parliament Hill, one of London’s best natural viewpoints, where you can catch a panoramic view of the city skyline.  

You could also head north to Kenwood House, a stately home with landscaped gardens, and stop at the Brewhouse café for a matcha. 

The route then loops back towards Hampstead village, passing Keats House – a must for literature lovers – and Burgh House, before finishing on Flask Walk.

End with a well-earned pint (or even a full Sunday roast) at the Flask pub, the perfect reward after completing the trail.

Duration: Around 4km, taking most walkers 1–1.5 hours.

Difficulty: Moderate – a couple of steep hills, but nothing too demanding.

Getting there: Start at Hampstead Underground Station (Northern line).

Best stop-off: The Flask Hampstead, a gastropub at the walk’s end that claims to serve the best Sunday roast in North London –  a worthy reward.

Little Venice to Camden Lock 

Little Venice and Camden Lock have a distinct charm during autumn.

Flanked by the Regents Canal, the walk between them offers fresh air,  picturesque houseboats and small businesses, before ending at Camden’s bustling food market. 

Start your journey at Paddington station: Regent’s Canal and signs to ‘Little Venice’ should be in view immediately. If you’d like a coffee in hand, Darcy and May Green is a nearby brunch spot serving takeaway drinks. 

You’ll find Little Venice at the junction where Grand Union and Regent’s Canal meet. From here, follow the path east all the way to Camden Lock.  

Along the water, you’ll pass restaurants and bars worth the detour, as well as the Puppet Theatre Barge – always a hit if you’ve brought little ones along.

Keep going and you’ll come across Café Laville, an Italian spot on a bridge with views over the canal.

As you near Monkey Valley and London Zoo, you’re almost at your destination. A sharp bend in the canal signals Camden is just ahead, where terrace bars and street food stalls make the perfect place to refuel after your walk.

Duration: About 3.3km (2 miles), roughly 1 hour on foot.

Difficulty: Easy – an accessible, gentle stroll for all walkers.

Getting there: Start at Paddington Station and finish at Camden.

Best stop-off: The Puppet Theatre Barge for some mid-walk entertainment, or The Bridge House near Westbourne Terrace for a cosy pint by the canal.

The Tamsin Trail, Richmond Park 

The Tamsin Trail is a walking and cycling route around the perimeter of Richmond Park, London’s largest royal park.

At 11km, it’s no quick stroll, but with ancient woodland, wide meadows and herds of deer, it’s worth the effort.

Most start at Richmond Gate, (a short walk from Richmond station) and head clockwise.

This takes you from Richmond Gate to Pembroke Lodge, where you’ll find views of the Thames Valley, and the Pembroke Lodge cafe. 

From Pembroke Lodge, wander through the woodlands and meadows towards Kingston Gate, this stretch is a prime location for spotting red and fallow deer – residents of the park.

Richmond Park is also a great spot to catch birdlife – keep an eye out for woodpeckers and green parakeets.

Finish up this walk heading up to Richmond Gate, an uphill climb that will reward you with views of St Paul’s Cathedral.  

Duration: 11km (7 miles), roughly 3-4 hours on foot.

Difficulty: Medium – generally accessible and well-marked paths, some hills along the trail.

Getting there: Head to Richmond Station for the closest access to Richmond Gate.

Best stop-off: The Puppet Theatre Barge for some mid-walk entertainment, or The Bridge House near Westbourne Terrace for a cosy pint by the canal.

The Diana Princess of Wales Memorial walk 

Another longer walk through London’s Royal Parks, the 7-mile Tamsin Trail crosses four of the eight parks. It’s circular, so you can start anywhere, though Green Park is recommended.

From there, stroll towards St James’s Park and its lake, then circle back past Buckingham Palace and the Queen Victoria Memorial. Continue through Wellington Arch to Apsley Gate, an entrance to Hyde Park.

A broad walk down to the Four Winds Fountain makes a good resting spot before heading past the Old Police House and up Buck Hill, where you can take in the views of Kensington Palace.

Pass Queen Anne’s Alcove and the fountains of the Italian Gardens, then on to the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground – a perfect stop if you have little ones in tow. 

Fancy a treat? The Orangery offers royal-inspired afternoon tea before you continue past Kensington Palace, taking in the Albert Memorial opposite the Royal Albert Hall.

Finish your loop along the Serpentine, stopping at the gallery if you’re an art lover, passing the Dell Restaurant,  and closing your journey within the tranquility of the Rose Gardens, beautiful even in Autumn, and a peaceful end to a long journey. 

Duration: 11km (7 miles), 3 hours.

Difficulty: Easy – Medium – mostly flat and paved, with the main challenge being the distance.

Getting there: Multiple stations around the route; Green Park or Hyde Park Corner Station are convenient starting points. 

Best stop-off:  For a treat, visit the Orangery; or for a quick coffee or sandwich, the Italian Gardens Café is ideal.

The Hampton Court Barge Walk 

Heading southwest, the Barge walk takes you along the River Thames, from Kingston-upon-Thames to Hampton Court Palace.

This walking and cycling-friendly trail is named after the moored boats that line the riverside, passing Kingston’s lively waterfront, the Thames Sailing Club, and finishing with views of the Palace framed by autumn leaves.

Start near Bushy Park and head towards Kingston; just before the bridge, you’ll find the entrance to the Barge Walk. From there, follow the riverside path all the way down to Hampton Court. Keep an eye out for Ravens Ait and Thames Ditton islands, privately owned stretches of land with beautiful River Houses.

Near the end, you’ll reach Hampton Court Park. If you’re still full of energy,  extend the walk for another angle on the Palace and its gardens, another way to peek into the Palace’s history. 

Duration: About 4.5km (3 miles), roughly 1 to 1.5 hours on foot.

Difficulty: Easy – an accessible, gentle flat path suitable for all walkers.

Getting there: By train, head to either Hampton Wick station or Kingston station.  You can also find parking near Bushy Park.

Best stop-off: The Pistachio Cafe is located in Bushy Park, near the Kingsfield Playground, or the 1910 Coffee House can be found just before the Kingston Bridge.

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