Alice Giddings

Liberal Democrat MP Munira Wilson is sponsoring a private member’s bill to criminalise possession of childlike sex dolls in the UK, where importing them is prohibited but ownership is not. The proposed law would allow police seizures and could impose prison sentences and monitoring. Supporters, including psychotherapist Becky Crepsley-Fox, argue that the dolls may reinforce harmful fantasies or bridge the gap between fantasy and real-world offending, although research remains limited and some therapists believe controlled use might prevent offending. The bill must receive government backing and pass its second reading in the House of Commons. Prevention services such as Stop It Now and StopSO are also highlighted as ways to help people seek support before they offend.

Anika, a 24-year-old London marketing professional, travels to Boston for one final visit with her long-distance boyfriend Leo after four years together. Although they reconnect through intense and affectionate sex, Leo’s decision to remain in the United States for medical school makes their plans to live together unrealistic. After discussing their future, Anika ends the relationship rather than accept a less committed situationship. Their emotional and physical closeness continues through the final days of the visit, but the trip ultimately leaves both of them grieving, with Anika returning home feeling lonely and recognizing that passion cannot overcome the circumstances ending their relationship.

Panty-stuffing, the practice of inserting underwear into the vagina or other body openings during sex, can appeal through feelings of fullness, sensation play, power exchange and underwear fetishism. Sexologist Becky Crepsley-Fox warns that it can introduce infection, irritation, soreness and contact dermatitis, particularly when worn or synthetic underwear is used or fabric is moved from the anus to the vagina. She recommends clean, freshly washed 100% cotton underwear, brief use and prompt removal. The underwear cannot pass beyond the cervix, but it may become difficult to retrieve and should be removed by a doctor if stuck.

Annie, a 49-year-old married mother experiencing menopause, describes a secret affair with Hardeep, a 33-year-old lawyer. She says her husband has shown little sexual interest for years, while her relationship with Hardeep involves frequent sex, erotic messaging and concealed meetings. Annie does not plan to leave her husband until her daughter is older, and views the affair as a private source of pleasure despite the risks of discovery, infidelity and unprotected sex.

A survey of 20,000 people found that many women dislike being asked “Are you close?” during sex because it can create pressure, interrupt concentration and make orgasm more difficult. Sex and relationship expert Annabelle Knight says the question may imply impatience or a deadline, encouraging partners to ask about pleasure instead, such as whether the pace, angle or stimulation feels good. Nonverbal cues, relaxation and a combination of verbal and physical communication are also recommended.

Which?’s blind taste test of supermarket ketchups found Asda Classic Tomato Ketchup tied with Heinz Tomato Ketchup for the top score of 77%. Asda was also awarded Best Buy and Great Value commendations because its 550g bottle costs £1.13, compared with about £3 for 460g of Heinz. Waitrose ranked second with 75%, Aldi third with 73%, while M&S came last with 61% after tasters criticized its thickness, dark colour and tanginess. The results suggest shoppers can obtain comparable flavour for substantially less by choosing a supermarket own-brand ketchup.

Melanie, a 45-year-old married mother of four, describes a week in which parenting, work, travel and competing schedules leave little time for intimacy with her husband, Ian. Although the couple generally has sex about once a week and occasionally bickers during longer dry spells, they remain affectionate and communicate well. Their summer holiday drought ends with a brief, spontaneous sexual encounter in a secluded part of the back garden while their children are indoors, leaving both feeling positive despite the continuing challenges of family life.

The renewed popularity of natural pubic hair has prompted reports of “whisker fatigue,” an informal term for pain, stinging or irritation caused by long, coarse hairs tugging against skin, underwear or clothing. Dr Nikki Ramskill explains that long hair can bend back, cause chafing, trap sweat and contribute to ingrown hairs, particularly during exercise or sex. Trimming to a comfortable length can reduce discomfort, while pubic hair itself is healthy and helps protect the skin. The article also summarizes NHS advice for preventing and treating ingrown hairs, including avoiding close or blunt-razor shaving, using warm water and shaving gel, shaving with hair growth, and seeking medical care for severe inflammation or infection.

Lidl and Tesco have renewed their rivalry over the price and value of mochi, with Lidl comparing its £3.45 own-brand product with Tesco's £5 Little Moons before Tesco highlighted a £3.50 Clubcard offer. Marketing expert Lucy Hancock says this kind of playful, combative advertising suits discount retailers, humanizes brands, generates media coverage and encourages social engagement in a crowded market. The article also recalls earlier disputes involving Lidl, Tesco, Home Bargains and other supermarkets, while warning that rivalries work best when humorous rather than hostile.

Men may experience orgasms through ejaculation, pelvic-floor contractions, prostate stimulation, dry climax, combined penile and prostate stimulation, or multiple climaxes. Sexual-health professionals explain how each may feel and what techniques may support them, while stressing that not everyone can experience every type. The article also cautions that frequent dry orgasms may warrant medical advice and notes that evidence linking ejaculation frequency with reduced prostate-cancer risk remains part of broader research.

The 69 sex position is described as unpopular among some men and women because it requires giving and receiving oral sex simultaneously, making it difficult to focus, relax or enjoy either experience. Women also cited self-consciousness, awkward positioning and discomfort, while a study of more than 2,000 women reportedly found that 29% disliked it most. Sexologist Gigi Engle says the position can be demanding and distracting but emphasizes that preferences vary and that it may work better when approached as shared intimacy rather than a performance or race to orgasm. One Metro sex-diary contributor, however, described it as a favorite and said it led to more frequent and intense orgasms.

Galaxy has launched two 160g chocolate bars, Cinnamon Swirl and Millionaire Crumble, featuring biscuit pieces and sold initially through Iceland, The Food Warehouse and selected Spar stores in Scotland. Fans have responded enthusiastically, although the flavours are not yet listed in Galaxy’s official Mars collection and it remains unclear whether they are permanent additions. The bars retail for £3.39 at Spar.

Savannah, a 25-year-old pharmacy worker in Nigeria, documents a week of lingering desire for her ex two years after their long-distance breakup. She says memories of their intense sex are still central to her arousal and that she has struggled to orgasm during masturbation without thinking about him. Although she wants a committed relationship and explores dates with Luca, she rejects private encounters and casual situationships because of her religious values, fear of emotional complications and preference for older, more stable men. The diary ends with a second dinner and cinema date with Luca, but no clear romantic commitment.

A senior leader at a UK sports organisation reportedly reserves the last Tuesday of each month under the discreet abbreviation “FAMT,” meaning “F**k all meetings Tuesday,” to protect time for focused work. The practice reflects wider frustration with calendars crowded by meetings, which HR expert Jim Moore links to post-Covid managers’ increased monitoring, the decline of informal workplace conversations and the persistence of presenteeism in hybrid work. Although deliberately misleading managers about calendars could technically constitute misconduct, Moore argues that excessive monitoring and a lack of trust drive employees to create such defenses. Fake meetings may also be used for gossip, but the broader trend is portrayed as a symptom of dysfunctional workplace management.

Starbucks will offer its viral Unicorn Frappuccino in UK stores for the first time from August 15 to 17, nearly a decade after the drink’s initial release in North America. The brightly colored, mango-flavored beverage sparked huge online interest in 2017 and continues to attract attention, recently appearing at Coachella. While fans expressed excitement over its UK debut, some Starbucks employees voiced concerns about the drink’s complexity and the strain it may place on store operations. A Unicorn Cake Pop will also accompany the launch.

Cadaver collagen, an injectable material made from processed donated human skin, is becoming popular in South Korea and parts of Southeast Asia as a regenerative cosmetic treatment intended to improve skin firmness, elasticity, wrinkles, pores and hydration. Former A&E doctor Ben Taylor-Davies explains that the tissue is processed, sterilised and formed into injectable particles, but warns of risks including infection, immune reactions, contamination, inflammation and problems caused by poor donor screening or manufacturing. The treatment is illegal for cosmetic use in the UK, where human-derived injectable products face strict requirements for consent, traceability, lawful supply chains and regulatory approval. Early studies report promising results, but they are small, short-term and linked to the product’s development, leading to concerns that the treatment is being marketed faster than it is being properly tested.

The article explores claims that handjobs are becoming more popular than blowjobs, citing sex experts, online discussions and podcaster Dan Savage. Supporters value manual stimulation for its face-to-face intimacy, flexibility, lower STI risk and suitability for less time-intensive encounters, while experts suggest mainstream pornography and exhausted couples may be driving renewed interest. Blowjobs remain preferred by some men because they provide stimulation that cannot be performed alone and can create a strong sense of being desired.

Former British Airways cabin crew member Kris Major advises passengers not to wear black socks if they remove their shoes and let their feet extend into the aisle, because low cabin lighting can make them difficult for crew to see and increase the risk of trips, trolley injuries and disturbed passengers. The piece also highlights the growing use of compression socks on longer journeys, citing medical guidance that prolonged immobility during flights can raise the risk of deep vein thrombosis and that compression socks may reduce blood clots and leg swelling.

Inditex’s budget fashion brand Lefties will open its first UK store at Liverpool ONE in late August 2026, followed by stores at Lakeside in Essex in October and Gateshead’s Metrocentre in November. The retailer sells low-priced clothing, homeware, accessories and footwear and is positioned to compete directly with Primark. Lefties plans to assess the performance of its first three UK stores before expanding further, while also pursuing growth in the Middle East and North Africa and a relaunch in France.

Daniela Ridener says her breasts grew from a DD cup to a P cup over four years, causing severe back pain, mobility difficulties, skin wounds and infections. She attributes the growth to a hormonal IUD, although doctors disputed the link and medical sources cited in the report say breast-size changes from hormonal contraception are possible but generally temporary. In August 2022, she underwent surgery involving the removal of about 15kg of skin and tissue and reconstruction, reducing her breasts to a B cup but requiring the loss of her nipples. She later returned to a D cup after having children and says she can now carry out daily activities and buy clothes more easily.

Facesitting, also known as queening, is highlighted as a popular oral sex position among women, with experts noting its appeal in enhancing female pleasure and offering a sense of control. Women describe it as an effective way to orgasm, while many men find the experience enjoyable and intimate. Sex educators attribute its popularity to both physical stimulation and the power dynamics involved. Guidance is provided on safety, communication and consent due to risks associated with restricting a partner’s ability to breathe.

Thousands in the United States have contracted cyclosporiasis, a parasitic infection traced to contaminated food or water, leading to widespread diarrhoea and hospitalisations across multiple states. Experts note the outbreak’s origin remains unclear, though Taco Bell has removed lettuce from menus in several states after reported exposures. UK specialists emphasize that the risk to people in Britain is low, with infections generally linked to travel or consumption of unwashed produce. Symptoms can be prolonged and recurrent, particularly affecting vulnerable groups, but are treatable with antibiotics. Travellers and recent returnees from affected areas are advised to remain cautious, practice good hygiene, and seek medical advice for persistent symptoms. Preventive measures include thoroughly washing fresh produce and taking extra care with food and water when abroad.

Most of the UK’s top‑selling books feature murdered women, prompting concern among authors and experts about the normalization and potential fetishization of violence against women in crime fiction. Academics argue the issue lies not in addressing gendered violence but in how it is portrayed, urging depictions that avoid sensationalism and reflect real‑world contexts such as domestic abuse. Writers and psychotherapists highlight the need for narratives centered on victims’ voices rather than using women’s suffering as a plot device. Despite many bestselling crime novels being written by women and widely read by female audiences, experts warn that repeated exposure to graphic violence can reinforce fear, while thoughtful storytelling can instead build empathy and illuminate the realities of abuse.

Montenegro is portrayed as a rising European travel hotspot, offering scenic coastal towns, historic sites and unique attractions while still experiencing infrastructure challenges such as airport congestion and construction. Budva provides beaches, nightlife and dining options, while Sveti Stefan offers restored public beach access and high-end views. Kotor stands out for its UNESCO-listed Old Town, fortress hike and mountain cable car activities. Quieter experiences are available in Herceg Novi and on Skadar Lake. Dining at the luxury One & Only Portonovi and its Tapasake restaurant is highlighted, though at premium prices. Overall, the destination is recommended for its landscapes, culture and variety of experiences despite minor inconveniences.

Medical experts state that abstaining from sex does not enhance athletic performance, noting that testosterone levels do not meaningfully increase through abstinence and that key determinants of performance remain sleep, training, nutrition and stress management. While some athletes may choose abstinence for psychological focus or to maintain arousal-related hormones, any hormonal changes from sexual activity are short-lived. England’s footballers are permitted to see partners during the World Cup, and timing rather than avoidance is highlighted as the only potentially relevant factor, as sex immediately before a match may briefly affect alertness.

A staged wedding stunt in which actors posing as caterers deliberately dropped a three-tier cake went viral, drawing criticism over food waste and disrespect for artisan craftsmanship. Johnnie Boden confirmed the fall was planned and designed for dramatic effect, but cake industry professionals argued it undermined the value of skilled work. Online reactions were divided, with many condemning the waste while others viewed the prank as harmless fun.

A married woman describes a week of unusually frequent and adventurous sex with her husband during a heatwave, with rising temperatures initially dampening her libido before spontaneous encounters rekindle excitement. Heat, risk, alcohol and playful situations contribute to renewed intimacy, culminating in several intense experiences that leave her feeling satisfied and closer to her partner.

Bamburgh in Northumberland was named the UK’s best seaside destination for the sixth consecutive year in a Which? survey, praised for its beaches, scenery and peaceful atmosphere. The article details local attractions including Bamburgh Castle, the RNLI Grace Darling Museum, golf courses and nearby Holy Island. It highlights dining options such as The Potted Lobster and accommodation ranging from holiday cottages to hotels like the Victoria Hotel and The Lord Crewe. Travel advice is provided for reaching the village and exploring surrounding sites.

More than 200,000 counterfeit condoms were seized across Europe after the European Anti-Fraud Office uncovered a trafficking route distributing products that failed to meet EU safety standards. Authorities warn that fake condoms pose serious risks, including leaks, tearing, sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancy. Legitimate manufacturers such as Durex follow rigorous testing procedures to ensure safety, and users are advised to check for CE or UKCA marks or obtain condoms from trusted health services.

Numerous shoppers report falls and injuries linked to Zara’s Flowing Wide-Leg Trousers, with TikTok videos showing cuts, bruises and even concussions. Fashion experts warn that wide-leg, lightweight designs commonly pose tripping risks, especially on stairs or uneven ground. Despite the issues, such trousers remain a staple due to ongoing trends and hot weather. Zara has not responded to requests for comment.

A niche but growing online fetish involving voluntary genital ablation is examined through expert commentary, highlighting its psychological drivers and extreme medical risks. While most participants only fantasize, a small number pursue the idea in reality, sometimes connected to conditions such as body integrity dysphoria. The article underscores that reputable surgeons perform such procedures only for medical necessity, noting dangers ranging from infection and nerve damage to death. Specialists emphasize that intrusive or compulsive urges may signal underlying mental health issues and require professional assessment.

Tesco was named Britain’s favourite supermarket at The Grocer Gold Awards for the tenth consecutive year, supported by survey data highlighting strong pricing and Clubcard benefits. M&S continued to lead in the Which? annual customer satisfaction survey due to high product quality but was criticised for affordability, while Aldi maintained its reputation as the UK’s cheapest supermarket. Comparisons of pricing, customer satisfaction and product offerings underscored contrasting strengths among major grocery retailers.

The UK has lowered the minimum age for using airport passport e-gates from 10 to 8, allowing up to 1.5 million additional children to use the faster automated system ahead of summer holidays. The change applies to eligible UK and international travellers and is expected to reduce airport waiting times. Officials highlight improved efficiency and border security, while industry representatives welcome the move. The update comes amid wider concerns about travel disruption linked to past e-gate failures and global jet fuel shortages, with the government introducing measures to limit last-minute flight cancellations.

Listening to audio erotica in short bursts, known as porn dosing, is gaining popularity among women as a way to reduce anxiety, improve mood, and enhance sexual wellbeing. Users report benefits such as reduced stress, increased intimacy with partners, and a boost in productivity and confidence. Sex and relationship experts say the practice triggers hormonal responses that promote relaxation and connection. While noted as helpful for busy parents and those seeking discreet self-care, experts caution against secrecy in relationships and warn of potential overuse. Several popular audio erotica recommendations accompany the discussion.

Engagement with sex workers rises among England and Scotland football fans after World Cup matches, with adult platforms reporting significant user increases regardless of match outcomes. Escort Elizabeth Romanova notes that most football supporters behave respectfully, despite wider concerns about post-match misconduct. Data from platforms including SimpleEscort and Babestation shows spikes tied to emotional reactions and betting wins, with expectations of further increases as England advances in the tournament.

A new oral version of Wegovy, the first GLP‑1 weight‑loss pill approved in the UK, has generated intense demand, with tens of thousands registering interest through major online pharmacies. The pill, priced from £99 per month, offers a needle‑free alternative to semaglutide injections and has shown significant weight‑loss results in trials. Experts highlight both potential health benefits for people with obesity and concerns about body‑image pressures and the risk of counterfeit pills entering the black market. Access remains limited to private prescriptions until potential future approval for NHS use.

Interest in water‑related sexual fetishes is rising in the UK, with platforms like Clips4Sale reporting significant growth in searches linked to underwater and scuba‑themed content. Sexologist Ness Cooper explains that these practices fall under aquaphilia, driven by sensations linked to water, weightlessness and temperature changes. Scuba fetishism has gained visibility due to pop‑culture portrayals and involves attraction to gear such as neoprene suits and breathing apparatus, sometimes connected to breath play. Experts warn of safety risks when practicing water or scuba‑related kinks, recommending private settings, strong swimming ability and caution with tight gear or oxygen tanks. Virtual reality and gaming offer safer ways for people to explore these interests.

A North London woman recounts a week of dating frustrations, sexual exploration and planning group encounters, culminating in creating a summer sex bucket list with a dominant man she meets at a singles event. Messaging with several men leads to sexting, discussions about a potential threesome and experimenting with sex toys, while she maintains personal boundaries and schedules future dates to vet partners properly.

Coughlans Bakery, a family-run chain operating since 1937, has closed all of its more than 30 locations after rising business costs made the operation unsustainable. Managing director Sean Coughlan cited sharp increases in national insurance contributions, wages, business rates and fuel costs, totalling around £20,000 weekly. Hot weather also contributed to falling sales. Customers and part-owner Romesh Ranganathan expressed their disappointment as the company entered voluntary liquidation to ensure staff and suppliers could be paid.

Medical experts explain that abstaining from sex does not boost testosterone or athletic performance for England’s World Cup squad. Short‑term hormonal changes occur only immediately after sex, and long‑term abstinence offers no measurable benefit. Any positive effect comes from focus and arousal levels rather than physiological enhancement. Sleep, nutrition, training and stress management remain far more important for performance, and sex can even support recovery by reducing stress and improving mood.

Martin Lewis highlights that around 300,000 eligible UK households are failing to claim up to £2,000 a year through the government’s Tax‑Free Childcare scheme, warning that the misleading name and lack of awareness contribute to low uptake. The scheme adds 25% to payments made into a childcare account, with annual limits depending on eligibility and disability status. Families must meet work and income criteria, use approved childcare providers, and reconfirm eligibility quarterly. Guidance is provided on qualifying conditions and how to set up and use the childcare account.

Bonnie Blue defends continuing to create explicit content and host sexual events while pregnant after facing widespread criticism and calls for child protection intervention. She argues that the backlash violates her rights as a woman and sex worker, rejecting claims that she is sexualising her unborn child or endangering her pregnancy. While acknowledging intense online hostility, she insists authorities have not raised concerns and outlines precautions she plans to take once her baby is born. Despite the controversy, she expresses excitement about motherhood and plans to return to work shortly after giving birth.

Lily Phillips’ recent posts featuring a controversial sexual act have generated significant concern online, with many women describing the act as degrading and uncomfortable. Discussions from social media, ethical porn platforms and experts highlight that many women dislike facials due to associations with objectification, while others enjoy them when consensual. Experts note that such content can reinforce unrealistic expectations, particularly given how many men learn about sex from porn. Emphasis is placed on mutual desire, communication and respect as key to healthy sexual experiences.