April Fool's Day is here - and people around the world are playing pranks and tricks on their friends and family.
Anyone who has forgotten the date may well have fallen for a cheeky gag or two in the past. However, according to tradition, people only have until 12pm before having to come clean, after which they themselves become the fool. The rule can be traced back as early as 1851 in a passage written in a British Journal which said those who played pranks in the afternoon would be told: “April fool's gone past, you're the biggest fool at last.”
The origins of April Fool's Day are shrouded in mystery similarities - ancient Roman festivals such as Hilaria, and the Holi celebration in India. In modern times, major companies and online brands are keen to get in on the act to promote their products with the best possible jokes.
Last year, Jeremy Vine shared an April Fool's video in which a hawk swooped in to attack his drone flying over Hyde Park, while Gymbox - a popular London gym chain - launched a workout class for dogs and their owners dubbed Gymbarx.
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Benedict Tetzlaff-Deas
That's all for tonight
Thanks for following along this April Fool's day!
We hope you've enjoyed our collection of the weirdest and wackiest jokes pulled by would-be pranksters around the world today.
You can stay up to date with all the latest updates on our Apple News, Twitter and Facebook pages or visit The Mirror homepage.
Benedict Tetzlaff-Deas
Where was Google's April Fool's Day prank?
Google became famous for its April Fool's Day tricks over the years - including a fake new product called 'Google Gnome', a too-good-to-true animal translator and a feature that transformed Maps into a game of Pac Man.
But the tech giant hasn't done one since 2020, when it stopped the practice "out of respect" to frontline workers fighting the Covid pandemic.
Benedict Tetzlaff-Deas
Dole releases world-first pineapple flavoured eggs
Dole has announced it has added controlled amounts of its Tropical Gold Pineapple Chunks to their chicken's feed with what it calls "tropalicious results."
Dole Packaged Foods Europe’s Head of Innovation April Asinus said: "We know that eggs are often linked with sunshine due to their vibrant coloured yolks and the popular serving suggestion of ‘sunny side up’ but what they lacked was that tropical taste.
"Our experiment has led to an eggs-tatic outcome, not only do chickens get to enjoy a tasty treat, but food fanatics can now Add Some Wow to their favourite eggy dishes by adding Dole’s Tropical Gold Pineapple Flavoured Eggs.
"David Beckham once revealed that one of his favourite childhood meals, which he still enjoys, is gammon with pineapple, fried egg, chips, coleslaw and mushy peas and so we’re convinced he’ll find our pineapple flavoured eggs a cracking idea!"
Anders Anglesey
When did April Fool's Day begin?
On April 1 every year, people around the world plan practical jokes and all kinds of mischief.
The tradition dates back several centuries but the origins of the day are actually contested. Some historians believe April Fool's Day dates back to 1582, and that it did not come to the UK until the 1700s.
One theory suggests when France switched from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar that many were slow to get the news.
Not everyone realised the start of the new year had moved to January 1, which had been decided by Pope Gregory XIII, so they became the butt of many jokes. Previously the new year had been marked between March 25 and April 1.
The French would put paper fish on the "fool's" back, and called them Poisson d'Avril – or April Fish
Read more here.
Benedict Tetzlaff-Deas
Chris Kamara reveals long lost sister
Unbelievable Jeff! Former footballer turned pundit Chris Kamara joined in the fun this morning by announcing to the world that he had discovered his 'long lost sister'.
He even shared a snap of his once-estranged sibling - though it may or may not in fact be a photoshopped picture of himself.
Wow some incredible news Just found out after all these years that I have sister!!! She is called April, first I’ve heard of it. Who do you think you are, coming to our screens very soon on ITV pic.twitter.com/OwZscsKRjH
— Chris Kamara (@chris_kammy) April 1, 2025
Benedict Tetzlaff-Deas
Claudia Winkleman announces new 'Knees and Toes' shampoo
The TV personality has starred in a brand new Head and Shoulders advert to promote their latest product... 'Knees and Toes'.
Claudia explained that the new specially-designed formula would leave your limbs "dandruff-free" - and reassured shoppers that it's also safe for use on your elbows, too.
Anders Anglesey
Aldi Scotland launches canned Scottish tap water
Aldi Scotland has announced it is embracing the growing demand for low alcohol products and has launched its latest innovation, 100 per cent canned Scottish tap water.
Graham Nicolson, Group Buying Director, Aldi Scotland, said: "We know Scotland has the purest tap water in the world, and with buying trends indicating a move towards low-alcohol drinks, this felt like a great opportunity to go with the flow and turn on the tap for a new Scottish innovation.
"When talking of something truly extraordinary you often hear people say – ‘if you could only bottle it’ – well we have! Taps Aff is exactly what is says on the tin: pure, refreshing Scottish tap water.
"Taps Aff launches on April 1, and we are confident that every drop will leave customers fully hydrated."
Benedict Tetzlaff-Deas
Recall of chocolate bars after 'tiny stones' found - but it's not an April Fool's
Tony's Chocolonely has been forced to recall its chocolate bars - because some may contain "tiny stones".
The Dutch chocolate company made the announcement today, but were forced to confirm that it was not an April Fool's joke.
According to the notice, two products on sale in the UK and Ireland needed to be recalled due to the risk of small stones being in the product.
Tony's Chocolonely added: "Whilst the chance of any individual product being affected is low, we have decided to take this step in order to ensure the safety and satisfaction of Tony's Chocolonely consumers."
Benedict Tetzlaff-Deas
Rail operator reveals new train-inspired makeup kit
Another beauty product launch today came from the unlikeliest of sources - rail operator LNER.
Their new 'FACE Range', said to be inspired by the joys of travelling on the network, was unveiled with a tongue-in-cheek promotional video showing a train worker dolling up passengers as she makes her way down the aisles.
— London North Eastern Railway (@LNER) April 1, 2025On our trains, we serve more than food and drink, we serve LOOKS
We're proud to launch our new LNER FACE range - makeup inspired by rail travel.
Available onboard from 1 April 2025. Learn more: https://t.co/BiBanF9vVJ pic.twitter.com/I7kCSAbBoY
Benedict Tetzlaff-Deas
Dyson announces new 'airbrow'
Earlier today, British manufacturer Dyson unveiled the new 'airbrow' - a device which uses the company's vacuum technology to sculpt the perfect eyebrows.
The company announced: "The Dyson Airbrow redefines how we style brows at home, harnessing powerful and precise airflow, combined with our styling round brush.
"Promising to elevate your brow game to aerodynamic perfection, the Dyson Airbrow sculpts, styles, and smooths brows with a single stroke."
One to put in the 'if only it were true' file...
Zahra Khaliq
Minister for Good Vibes and Positivity announced
Dawn Butler has just been appointed Minister for Hope, Good Vibes and Positivity.
The Labour Party announced the role "will sit within the Cabinet Office" and see Dawn work cross-departmentally to "deliver smiles per capita."
— Dawn Butler (@DawnButlerBrent) April 1, 2025Exciting news!
It's with great pride that I have accepted a ministerial role.
Details below pic.twitter.com/Y41SZOKY00
Zahra Khaliq
Touch grass like never before with Yahoo's new keyboard
The Yahoo Agricultural Interface is here - a new grass-covered keyboard that lets you "experience the great outdoors, and stay grounded, even when you're at your desk."
The new tech device boasts "87 hand-placed tufts of turf" complete with a USB wire.
Liam Buckler
Just Stop Oil annouce their return
Just Stop Oil has announced their return - just days after the group said they would stop protesting.
The protest group, who divide opinion as they attack cultural and historical sites, was met with a rather mixed reaction from social media users.
"Welcome back", said one user. "Great news", another added. While one person said "I thought you morons had gone for good."
AND WE'RE BACK. pic.twitter.com/vaFqbLZLNW
— Just Stop Oil (@JustStop_Oil) April 1, 2025
Liam Buckler
Abbey Road Studios to remove iconic Zebra crossing
Abbey Road Studios has announced plans to remove the iconic Zebra crossing - where The Beatles were pictured for their 1969 album Abbey Road.
Informing heartbroken fans on X, it said: "It is with a heavy heart that we announce we announce that the Abbey Road crossing is set to be removed for the foreseeable future—a decision beyond our control. We remain hopeful it can be reversed and will return in the future."
“Erasing History in London. Shameful! It is an important landmark! Save it! @PaulMcCartney and @ringostarrmusic Please and Thank-You!” wrote one person online.. “Thank god its April Fool’s Day,” said another.
— Abbey Road (@AbbeyRoad) April 1, 2025It is with a heavy heart that we announce we announce that the Abbey Road crossing is set to be removed for the foreseeable future—a decision beyond our control.
We remain hopeful it can be reversed and will return in the future. pic.twitter.com/CWLFtVjms6
Liam Buckler
Police to put an end to people putting their feet on seats
The British Transport Police has finally announced new measures to stop people putting their feet on seats - by removing outdoor footwear.
Taking to social media, BTP said: "Today we’re announcing new measures which will see the mandatory removal of outdoor footwear on the railway. The groundbreaking step is being introduced following a surge in reports to our text 61016 service of people putting their feet on seats."
— British Transport Police (@BTP) April 1, 2025Today we’re announcing new measures which will see the mandatory removal of outdoor footwear on the railway.
The groundbreaking step is being introduced following a surge in reports to our text 61016 service of people putting their feet on seats.
Liam Buckler
Yorkshire Tea lauches a 'home brew' kit
Yorkshire Tea have annouced a microwavable 'brew pouch' that will produce tea in 60 seconds.
Writing on X, it said: "Ping! Welcome to a new era in tea. This is Yorkshire Tea Microbrew. No more waiting for the kettle to boil like an idiot - our patented microwave BrewpouchTM is pre-infused and piping hot in just 60 seconds. Available in Original, Gold and Biscuit."
Ping! Welcome to a new era in tea.
— Yorkshire Tea (@YorkshireTea) April 1, 2025
This is Yorkshire Tea Microbrew. No more waiting for the kettle to boil like an idiot - our patented microwave BrewpouchTM is pre-infused and piping hot in just 60 seconds.
Available in Original, Gold and Biscuit.
Join the #Teavolution pic.twitter.com/ie2OBCw5sA
Liam Buckler
World’s first baby voice translator launches
The world's first baby voice translator has launched today.
UK baby brand Nuby will be helping parents with a 'revolutionary' new product, RapidChat, a baby voice translator, to answer one of parents’ most asked questions: What is my baby trying to say?
RapidChat uses AI technology to interpret the nuances of your baby's sounds, translating gurgles and coos into the nearest phrases.With support for up to 11 different languages, RapidChat ensures no babble goes untranslated.
Zahra Khaliq
Cadbury Creme Egg On The Goo
Cadbury has launched portable sachets of the goo inside a Creme Egg.
The confectionery company uploaded a bizarre video to Instagram showing someone squeezing the goo over a portion of chips. "Move over boring condiments, Creme Egg On The Goo is here", it said.
KEY EVENT
Heinz Dubai Beanz with 'premium pistachio flavour'
Heinz has offered its own spin on the viral Dubai chocolate bar by launching Heinz Dubai Beanz. A promo picture appears to suggest each individual bean will be filled with pistachio cream.
Dupes of the popular sweet treat, which features pistachio and kadayif pastry, have already graced UK supermarket shelves - including Lidl, Morrisons, Waitrose and Aldi, which recently unveiled a Dubai chocolate ice cream.
Jumping on the bandwagon, Heinz shared an image of a bright green Dubai Beanz tin, which boasts a "premium pistachio flavour". The food giant described the item as "luxury in a tin" on Instagram, with competitor @aldiuk replying: "You’re meant to be silly, not suggesting great ideas."
Liam Buckler
The first ever Branston Beans Lip Gloss
Branston Beans has introduced a new range to their products - a rather strange lip gloss.
Posting on their social media account, the bean company confirmed it will be perfect for those travelling who need their baked bean fix.
Branston Beans said: "The 5★ taste you know and love, now in your pocket. Introducing the first-ever Branston Beans Lip Gloss: hydrating, high-shine, and bursting with that remarkably rich & totally tomatoey flavour. Never be without it. Carry Branston Beans with you everywhere."
Liam Buckler
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Liam Buckler
Dreams launches colour-changing SleepMood mattresses
Ever wished your mattress could match your mood? Now it can thanks to Dreams who are launching a new SleepMood Colour Changing range.
Using advanced mood-sense technology, these mattresses transform based on how you feel. Whether you're calm, energised, or anything in between, your mattress will reflect your vibe.
Liam Buckler
'Connections' word game has super hard clues
The popular New York Times 'Connections' word game has super hard clues for April 1.
The free daily word game has a new puzzle at midnight every day and users are presented with a grid of 16 words. You then have to arrange them into four groups of four by working out the links between them. There is only one answer for each puzzle and if you make four mistakes, it's game over.
Today’s 16 words are, in fact, symbols:
- ⊾
- &
- X
- )
- N
- O
- P
- €
- →
- $
- (
- +
- £
- ✔
- R
- ¥
KEY EVENT
Brewdog launches new Hot Beer
Brewdog has launched a new Hot Beer to "beat the cold."
According to their website, it is microwaved in small batches to alter the flavour profile as quickly as possible. The beer is 3.4% and designed as a session larger for drinkers fed up of getting frostbitten fingers from holding those cold pints of lager.
Lauren Carrol, Chief Operating Officer at BrewDog, commented: “Ever since we launched Cold Beer last summer it really felt like we needed something to add some balance. So we thought: what’s not cold? And then it fell into place from there.
“I mean, obviously it’s pretty nondescript to drink, but there’s no doubt that it’s hot. And actually we really think the joyful ‘ping’ could really catch on in bars. It’s just one of those sounds that lifts the spirits – especially if there’s a full pint of Hot Beer to follow. And a big thank you to our bar procurement teams for sorting the microwaves – frankly, I’m surprised Robert Dyas has anything left.”
It is avaliable on their website from today.
Liam Buckler
Thorpe Park launches new ride - not suitable for vegans
Thorpe Park has launched a new record-breaking rollercoaster, Hyperia, which is not suitable for vegans - due to the unavoidable presence of flying insects.
A special warning sign has been unveiled at the entrance of the park’s latest record-breaking attraction, Hyperia, cautioning vegan guests to think twice before boarding. With the sheer speed and intensity of the ride, dodging airborne insects is not an option.
Hyperia is the UK’s tallest, fastest and most weightless rollercoaster, standing at 236ft tall and reaching speeds of over 80mph. So, while it promises an adrenaline-fueled journey like no other.
Head of Food and Beverage at Thorpe Park, Ava Kado, said: "We’ve always encouraged guests to embrace their fearlessness on our rides, but this time we’re also asking them to embrace the unpredictable. At Thorpe Park, we pride ourselves on catering to a wide range of dietary preferences, but we felt it was only fair to give our vegan visitors a heads-up. While we can promise the ride of a lifetime, we can’t promise a completely bug-free experience, so if you’re strictly plant-based, sorry, this one’s not for you.”.
Liam Buckler
Royal Albert Hall launches Immersive Nokia 3310 experience
The Royal Albert Hall has announced that it will hold its first ever Immersive Nokia 3310 Experience.
The event, which hopes to tap into the current wave of noughties nostalgia, will include performances of classic ringtones and alarms by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, live-streamed gaming, and a special performance by organist Anna Lapwood.
Following the success of gaming and film-inspired concerts at the Hall over the past 15 years, including Elden Ring, Final Fantasy, Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings, the 3310 Experience is the first cultural event in Europe to delve into celebrating classic mobile phone technology.
One of the most highly anticipated aspects of the event will be seeing prominent Twitch and YouTube gamers taking turns at playing Snake II and Space Impact on a classic Nokia handset, with the graphics being projected onto giant HD screens.
The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra will bring their 80-piece formation to the 5,000-seater venue, and will be underscoring the evening with 3310 ringtone classics such as ‘Groovy Blue’, ‘Mozart 40’, ‘Mosquito’ and ‘Hurdy-Gurdy’, among others.
James O’Follipar, Chief Executive of the Royal Albert Hall, said, “The Nokia 3310 is something that we as a country hold very close, not only to our ears, but to our hearts. It’s not often you can say that a handset changed your life, and I don’t intend to go into all the details, but it was one hell of a phone.”
Liam Buckler
Lorraine Kelly storms off set after realising 'gran' tattoo has gone horribly wrong
Lorraine Kelly's show took a different turn on Tuesday morning, as the 65-year-old presenter got her first tattoo - live on air.
The star revealed she had always wanted a tattoo, but wanted it to be meaningful, as she opted for her granddaughter Billie's name on her arm. Before her show kicked off, Lorraine was given a tattoo by artist Glenn, but fans were left eagerly waiting until the end of the show before she revealed the results.
During the moment of truth, Lorraine pulled off the covering on her upper arm, a purple tattoo with Billie's name and footprints. However, it wasn't until Lorraine chatted to Ben and Cat to discuss what's coming up on This Morning that they noticed an error.
Read more here
Liam Buckler
McDonald’s to open a new restaurant at end of Southend Pier
Fast-food chain McDonald's has announced plans to open a restaurant at the end of Southend Pier. It will be the longest walk to a Big Mac in the UK.
Set to open in time for next summer’s tourist season, the new McDonald’s will offer stunning views of the Thames Estuary while providing the familiar fast-food experience.
The “Sail-Thru” service will operate much like a traditional drive-thru, with a designated collection point where boaters can place and receive their orders. Safety measures will be in place to ensure smooth service, including a floating queue system and McDonald’s have said they’re working on special waterproof takeaway packaging.
McDonald’s Head of Growth, Kevin Williams, described the location as “a bold new step in waterfront dining,” adding that “whether you arrive by train, foot, or paddleboard, your McNuggets will be hot, fresh, and just a little bit saltier from the sea breeze.”
Liam Buckler
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are joining BBC’s Celebrity Traitors
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are joining BBC’s Celebrity Traitors.
A post on X from The Traitors HQ announced the stunning news.
BREAKING: Prince Harry & Meghan Markle are joining BBC’s #CelebrityTraitors as a duo! The royal pair have set aside 2 weeks in April to film the star-studded spinoff, which is scheduled to air in Autumn 2025. pic.twitter.com/deYBYPjFE9
— The Traitors HQ (@the_traitors_) March 31, 2025
Liam Buckler
'Henry Express' - the world's first spring cleaning train
Heathrow Express will launch the world’s first Spring Cleaning Train, the ‘Henry Express.’
For one day only, Henry will be leading the charge as the train speeds between London Paddington and Heathrow Airport. With a giant Henry face at the front of the train and his legendary powerful suction hose, it’s the cleanest way to travel this April.
Heathrow Express has teamed up with Numatic International Ltd, the makers of Henry, to launch a state-of-the-art suction system designed to clear seasonal track debris in real time. Mark Eastwood, Commercial Strategy Lead at Heathrow Express, commented:
“At Heathrow Express, we are committed to providing a fast, seamless, and premium travel experience. Partnering with Henry, an iconic British brand known for efficiency, allows us to take that commitment one step further demonstrating how innovation can help keep our railway running at its best. By combining reliability with smart solutions, we’re ensuring our passengers continue to enjoy a smooth journey every time they travel with us.”
