King Charles has expressed his sorrow following a devastating fire at a Swiss Alps ski resort that killed dozens of people during New Year’s celebrations.

In an official statement shared via Buckingham Palace in the early hours of January 2, the King shared his and Queen Camilla’s condolences after a blaze tore through a packed bar in Crans-Montana in the early hours of New Year’s Day, according to official statements.

“My wife and I were appalled, and greatly saddened, to learn of the devastating fire last night in Crans-Montana, in Switzerland,” His Majesty said. “It is utterly heartbreaking that a night of celebration for young people and families instead turned to such nightmarish tragedy.”

The fire broke out at around 1:30 a.m. local time at Le Constellation bar, just as crowds were ringing in the New Year. Swiss outlet Blick reported the blaze may have started when fireworks were set off inside during a concert, though authorities have not yet confirmed the exact cause. Images circulating on social media appeared to show a ceiling catching fire after a “waiter held up sparkler in champagne bottle.”

Police believe around 40 people lost their lives, with approximately 100 others injured, many critically. Victims have not yet been formally identified due to the severity of their burns, and officials confirmed that some of the dead were foreign nationals. Emergency services deployed 10 helicopters and 40 ambulances to the scene.

King Charles praised those who responded to the disaster, saying, “While offering our admiration for the heroic first responders and the selfless emergency services, we wanted, above all, to convey our deepest possible sympathy to all those who have been so dreadfully affected by this horrific disaster.”

Lauren Silverman expressed nothing but gratitude as the year came to an end, revealing that she is ‘grateful’ for her relationship with the music mogul as they head into 2026. 

Despite the happy snap, the American socialite and entrepreneur, 48, admitted she finds New Year ‘isolating and difficult,’ as she has chosen to go sober. 

For unversed, the couple are gearing up to tie the knot this year. However, they spent the holiday at their home in Barbados and shared a poolside snap to honour the occasion.

Lauren, who has recently joined Instagram, shared the snap of Simon, 66, who was shirtless and wearing a pair of pale blue board shorts. 

The couple looked loved-up as Lauren posed with her arms around the former X Factor boss.

Lauren – who has already legally changed her surname to Cowell cut a stylish figure in a plunging black swimsuit, and matching sarong, and a pair of stylish sunglasses.

Sharing a gushing post about Simon, Lauren said: ‘Grateful for who I get to stand next to as one year ends and another begins. Happy New Year everyone. May this be an ending that leads to something beautiful.’

However, she did also highlight her struggles at this time of year, as she discussed how hard it can be to be the only person not drinking at celebrations.

Lauren explained: ‘This is my second New Year’s Eve without alcohol. Sometimes nights like this can feel difficult and isolating.

Especially when you’re the only one not drinking on a celebratory night. But it’s so worth it. If you’re trying, struggling or just thinking about it – I see you. I know how it feels and you’ve got this.

‘Here’s to a new year of clarity, presence, strength and feeling good in your own skin. One day at a time.’

Lauren celebrated the first anniversary of her sobriety journey last month, as she reflected on how much her relationships and mental health have improved since quitting booze.

The year 2026 is anticipated to be a landmark for video gamers. Many franchises are expected to return with bold new ideas and fan-favourite heroes reaching consoles.

From cinematic blockbusters to indie titles, developers aim to push both technology and story telling new heights.

Here’s the complete list of most anticipated games that will be released in 2026:

• Cairn
• Reanimal
• Resident Evil Requiem
• Pokémon Pokopia
• 007 First Light
• Saros
• Grand Theft Auto VI
• Marvel’s Wolverine
• Witchbrook
• Halo: Campaign Evolved

The most talked-about releases are Grand Theft Auto VI. Set in the fictional Floridan-inspired themes, the game follows criminal partners Lucia and Jason promising players a sharp satire of modern America. Expectations are sky-high ahead of its planned November release.

Another most-awaited is 007 First Light, developed by IO Interactive. As the name suggests, the story revolves around James Bond. However, the exciting part is this chapter is about the young Bond before he earns his 00 status. After GoldenEye 007, it is considered as the most significant Bond game.

The horror niche lovers will also get their new year surprise. In 2026, Resident Evil Requiem introduces two contrasting protagonists i.e., timid newcomer Grace and series veteran Leon S. Kennedy, as they face fresh terrors in Raccoon City.

For exact release dates and new updates, players need to stay informed through official sites of developers.