Andrea Blazquez

Hillier Garden Centres will close its Hemel Hempstead branch in January 2027 following council approval to redevelop the site into a storage and distribution facility. Chairman George Hillier described the decision as difficult but an opportunity to reinvest in the company. The long‑running family business, founded in 1864, pledged support for affected staff. Local residents expressed disappointment over the closure, while another independent garden centre in Ormesby St Michael also announced it will shut due to economic pressures.

A mixture of used coffee grounds and bicarbonate of soda is recommended by gardening and home‑care experts as an effective method to absorb odours and deter insects during summer. The blend can be placed in areas such as windowsills, patios, fridges, bins, and cars to combat smells and keep pests like mosquitoes, spiders, wasps, and bees away. Specialists highlight coffee’s nitrogen content and strong aroma as key factors in neutralising odours and repelling insects. The USDA advises using coffee grounds or baking soda in refrigerators to control smells.

ONS data shows Olivia remains the most popular girls’ name in the UK, with Muhammad topping the boys’ list. Several vintage names, including Marnie, have re-entered the top 100 as parents embrace retro choices. Discussion among Mumsnet users highlights mixed feelings toward traditional names such as Margaret, with some viewing them as outdated while others appreciate their nostalgic value.

Tourists visiting Spain in 2026 face a range of fines for breaking local rules across destinations such as Benidorm, Alicante and Majorca. Benidorm has introduced penalties for night swimming, drinking or smoking on beaches, as well as nudity violations. Alicante has strengthened noise‑control regulations, imposing steep fines for disruptive behaviour. Travellers are urged to use only licensed taxis to avoid penalties, while Majorca and Ibiza authorities are cracking down on unlicensed parties, with heavy fines for organisers and attendees. Travel experts encourage visitors to be aware of local laws to ensure a trouble‑free holiday.