Ben Hurst

Discovery+ series Aussie Gold Hunters has ended after 11 seasons, with production company Electric Pictures citing changing market conditions. The cancellation follows repeated concerns from ABC’s Media Watch and The Guardian that some scenes, including a supposed poacher encounter, were staged and that the gold shown may not have been genuine. Producer Michael Dye said one disputed scene was a recreation. Cast member Melanie Wood confirmed that Electric Pictures is not currently making further seasons but cautioned viewers against believing unverified rumours and suggested the cast may return in the future.

Martin Lewis advises UK mobile customers to text “INFO” to 85075 to check whether their contract has ended and whether they can switch without an early termination fee. Around 14 million people are reportedly out of contract and may be overpaying, so customers with no cancellation charge are encouraged to compare cheaper SIM-only deals. Those wishing to keep their number can text “PAC” to 85075, although multiple-phone contracts and some networks require additional checks or may not support the process.

Nutrition scientist Federica Amati says six lifestyle pillars—healthy nutrition, physical activity, restorative sleep, stress management, avoiding risky substances and social connection—can substantially improve health and longevity alongside medical treatment. Research cited in the piece suggests that adopting five low-risk habits at age 50 may add 14 years of life for women and 12.2 years for men, while dietary modelling indicates that shifting toward a Mediterranean-style diet could add up to 10–11 years at age 40 and up to six years at age 70. The discussion emphasizes reducing ultra-processed foods and ensuring older adults receive adequate nutrient-dense foods and protein.

The UK government has confirmed that the Health and Safety Executive will consult on proposed changes to workplace-temperature guidance amid forecasts of temperatures reaching 37–38C. Current law requires employers to provide a reasonable indoor temperature and assess heat-related risks, but sets no legal maximum. The HSE says it has carried out no proactive inspections specifically focused on excessive workplace temperatures, while continuing to issue guidance and intervene where serious risks are identified. The National Pharmacy Association has recommended keeping daytime room temperatures below 32C and nighttime temperatures below 24C.

Millions of UK adults take statins such as atorvastatin to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Pharmacy expert Dipa Kamdar says most people tolerate the medicines well, while serious complications such as myopathy and rhabdomyolysis are rare but become more likely with high doses or interactions involving drugs such as certain antifungals, antibiotics, immunosuppressants and heart medicines. Grapefruit can also affect the breakdown of some statins. Statins may cause a modest increase in blood glucose, but their cardiovascular benefits generally outweigh this risk. Patients should report concerning symptoms to their GP and combine treatment with weight management, exercise and a diet lower in saturated fat and higher in fibre and unsaturated fats.

At least six people have been linked to a community measles outbreak in Mallorca after a young child on holiday tested positive. Five patients were unvaccinated and one had no recorded vaccination status. Mallorca’s health authorities have activated contact tracing and monitoring, required symptom self-monitoring, and mandated or recommended FFP2 masks in healthcare settings while reviewing staff vaccination records. UK travel-health guidance warns that measles is highly infectious and potentially serious, urging travellers to ensure they are up to date with MMR or MMRV vaccination.

The UK Foreign Office has warned tourists visiting Italy to use pedestrian crossings, noting that people can be fined for crossing within 100 metres of one without using it. Drivers may also turn right across a crossing when the pedestrian signal is green, so visitors are advised to exercise caution. The guidance also highlights higher levels of petty crime in city centres and tourist attractions, as well as thefts from parked cars, and recommends protecting valuables and avoiding leaving luggage in vehicles.

UK households are warned not to put electrical items—including plugs, cables, hairdryers, toasters, televisions, laptops, toys with batteries and garden tools—in general waste or household recycling bins. Under Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment regulations, individuals can face fines of up to £5,000, while commercial breaches may attract unlimited penalties. Incorrect disposal can cause fires, contaminate recycling and release hazardous substances, so unwanted electricals should be repaired, reused or taken to council collection services and approved recycling centres. Loose batteries should be recycled separately, and data-bearing devices should be factory-reset or securely wiped before disposal.

A GP, Mark Porter, warns that many people with back pain are treated contrary to updated NICE guidance. The guidance advises avoiding diazepam for sciatica, amitriptyline, pregabalin and gabapentin for short-term nerve pain, opioids where possible, routine imaging, supportive devices and unnecessary surgery. For uncomplicated acute back pain, people are advised to remain active and consider NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen, while recognising their kidney and gastrointestinal risks. Most cases improve within four to six weeks, but persistent symptoms should be assessed by a GP.

Travel Health Pro, backed by the UK Foreign Office, has published updated malaria risk maps for 13 countries: Belize, Botswana, the Dominican Republic, Eswatini, French Guiana, India, Myanmar, Namibia, Papua New Guinea, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea and Sudan. The warning follows official data showing 2,004 imported malaria cases in the UK in 2023 and recurring deaths among UK travellers who contract malaria abroad, particularly in Africa. Travellers are advised to avoid mosquito bites, recognise symptoms such as fever and chills, seek urgent medical attention if symptoms occur during travel or within a year of returning, and obtain destination-appropriate preventive medication.

Tesco is offering shoppers 5p off each litre of petrol or diesel when they spend at least £60 in store, with the promotion running until August 16 and paper coupons redeemable until August 23. The discount is capped at £10. The deal comes as average UK petrol prices reach about 160p per litre and diesel prices about 179p, driven higher by the conflict involving Iran. Fuel theft has also increased, with Forecourt Eye estimating that nearly £194,000 worth of fuel is stolen daily from UK forecourts.

The UK Government is expected to publish by 16 August the results of a Department for Transport consultation on tougher road-safety penalties. Proposed changes could introduce penalty points, vehicle seizure or stronger fines for driving without a valid MOT, insurance or licence, using false or cloned number plates, and other offences. The consultation also considers extending the time limit for prosecuting camera-detected speeding and red-light violations. Legislation could be amended later in 2026, although the final penalties have not yet been decided.

UK supermarkets waste about 200,000 tonnes of food annually, equivalent to more than 350 million meals and costing roughly £1 billion. Campaigners are petitioning Parliament to require retailers to donate edible surplus food to food banks and charities. The campaign comes amid heatwaves, drought and warnings of the worst harvest in years, with farmers seeking stronger government investment in resilient infrastructure and agricultural support. A separate coalition of food companies, charities, health groups and farming organizations has warned that the next food shock is inevitable, citing declining domestic fruit and vegetable production, heavy import dependence and food insecurity affecting 15% of households with children. The coalition is urging Andy Burnham to introduce a legally binding Good Food Bill and make food security a national priority.

Cat owners in England must have their cats microchipped and registered by 20 weeks old, or face a fine of up to £500. Owners whose unchipped cats are traced have 21 days to comply. The warning comes as the RSPCA reports receiving more cats than dogs for the first time, with 551 cats taken into care in June and rising reports of cat-related incidents and strays. Cats Matter supports the law but is urging the government to ensure that microchips are consistently scanned so lost animals can be reunited with their families.

Strength and conditioning lecturer Dr Lee Brown says sit-ups are not the most effective exercise for developing core strength and may overwork the hip flexors, contributing to lower-back problems. He recommends planks, side planks, farmer’s and suitcase carries, and bird dogs, with Pilates and yoga also potentially beneficial. A study involving 117 people found that participants with back pain could hold a plank significantly longer than those without pain, challenging assumptions about the relationship between plank performance and back problems.

Rat-related pest-control callouts in the UK are reported to have risen sharply, with experts linking the increase to warmer winters that allow rats to breed year-round and to heatwave conditions. University of Greenwich ecologist Steven Belmain warns that live-catch traps followed by release can cause severe stress and may ultimately kill the animals, while poorly designed kill traps can also cause prolonged suffering. Pest-control expert Nick Robertson recommends sanitation, improved housekeeping, proofing buildings and snap traps before resorting to poison. The article also highlights health risks from rat-borne diseases including leptospirosis, salmonella and E. coli, advising people to avoid handling dead rats without protective measures.

Opening or intentionally discarding mail delivered to a former resident may constitute a criminal offence in the UK if done with intent to cause detriment and without reasonable excuse. Depending on the circumstances, penalties can include a fine or six months to two years in prison. Mail should generally be returned unopened by writing “Return to sender,” “Not known at this address,” or “No longer lives here” on the envelope and placing it in a postbox. Royal Mail says no additional postage is required and advises disposing of incorrectly addressed “Something for you” cards after the holding period.

HMRC is urging people born between 1 September 2002 and 2 January 2011, and their parents or guardians, to check for Child Trust Funds that may be worth an average of about £2,200. More than 750,000 young adults are thought to have unclaimed accounts. The funds can be located free through GOV.UK using a National Insurance number and date of birth, while third-party agents may charge substantial fees, including up to £350 or 25% of the account value. The Share Foundation says it has helped more than 65,000 young people find their accounts.

Martin Lewis explains that Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act can make credit card providers jointly liable with retailers for purchases costing between £100 and £30,000, even when only part of the purchase is paid by card. This can help consumers recover money when goods are faulty, fail to arrive, or a retailer goes out of business. The article warns that Section 75 has technical limitations and that credit card balances should be paid in full to avoid interest. Which? also cautions that pay-by-bank and debit-card payments generally provide weaker protection, particularly for expensive or future-dated purchases, although debit-card users may be able to use chargeback.

Upcoming UK rules from April 2027 will bring unused pension funds within the inheritance-tax regime, prompting people to consider gifting wealth during their lifetime. The article explains that individuals may use the £3,000 annual exemption, carry forward an unused allowance for one year, make qualifying wedding gifts, give £250 small gifts, or make regular gifts from proven surplus income. Gifts may still be subject to inheritance tax if the donor dies within seven years, so detailed records are essential. Married couples and civil partners can also benefit from spousal and transferable allowances, while unmarried partners do not receive the same exemptions.

Criminals are impersonating UK mobile providers, including Sky and Tesco Mobile, to trick customers into accepting expensive phones and accessories before directing them to return the items using QR-code labels. The devices are sent to scammers, while providers may believe the customers ordered them and add the costs to their bills. Nearly 30,000 phones were reportedly stolen through the scheme last year. Victims have also been targeted through WhatsApp, account-access requests and threats, with some scammers even appearing at homes. Consumers are advised to end suspicious calls and contact their provider through an official channel, and never return unsolicited items using a supplied QR code.

Martin Lewis warns that a strong credit score does not guarantee approval for a loan or credit card because lenders also assess income and affordability. Different lenders use different scoring systems, and affordability checks can determine whether an application is rejected or how large a credit limit is offered. He also advises people with multiple debts to prioritize repaying the highest-interest balance—often an overdraft—while making minimum payments on cheaper debts, a strategy known as snowballing.

The NHS has issued a yellow heat-health alert across parts of England until 9am Sunday, warning that hot weather poses particular risks to people over 65, babies, young children and those with existing health conditions. The alert follows prolonged heat, exceptionally low rainfall and drought declarations in parts of England and Wales, alongside wildfires in Wales, Scotland and southern England. Cooler conditions are expected on Sunday, but temperatures are forecast to rise again from Tuesday, potentially exceeding 30C in southeast England through Thursday. Officials advise staying cool, drinking fluids, avoiding excessive heat and checking on vulnerable people.

UK cosmetic rules are changing in two stages. From July 15, 2026, 4-MBC was prohibited in newly placed cosmetic products and stricter warning-label thresholds were introduced for formaldehyde-releasing preservatives. From August 15, 2026, TPO and 15 other substances classified as carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic for reproduction will be banned in newly placed products, while new concentration limits will apply to Hexyl Salicylate. Salons and nail technicians are advised to check stock, confirm supplier compliance and retain purchase records. Beauty experts say consumers generally do not need to cancel appointments because reputable salons are expected to use reformulated, compliant products, although repeated exposure to uncured gel can increase the risk of skin sensitisation and allergies.

Martin Lewis advises customers of UK banks including Barclays, Lloyds, Nationwide, Halifax and Santander to dial 159 rather than rely on an incoming or suspicious call claiming to be from their bank. The service connects callers to a bank’s legitimate switchboard, helping guard against impersonation and phone-line spoofing. The advice comes as UK Finance reports more than four million fraud cases involving financial losses in 2025 and nearly £1.3 billion stolen. The article also explains authorised push payment reimbursement rules, rising romance and investment scams, and official channels for reporting fraud.

Morrisons is installing 10.8 million electronic shelf labels across all 497 of its UK supermarkets, replacing traditional paper price tags. The labels will update prices, promotions and loyalty discounts in real time, while associated shelf cameras are intended to improve online picking, identify gaps and help staff manage stock. VusionGroup is providing the technology, alongside upgraded store Wi-Fi, digital task management tools and trials of AI-powered shopping trolleys. Morrisons also announced seasonal discounts on fruit, snacks and drinks, amid reports that it plans to close 100 convenience stores.

People who cared for children or others between 1978 and 2010 may be owed an average of £8,377 because Home Responsibilities Protection was not correctly recorded in some National Insurance records. HMRC estimates around 210,000 people could be affected and has sent more than 370,000 letters, but only 8% responded to its initial outreach. Eligibility is not automatic: applicants generally need to have reduced or left work for caring responsibilities and be at least a year into receiving their State Pension. HMRC and the DWP say affected people should use the GOV.UK eligibility tool and apply for a record correction; successful claims typically take four to six months to process.

Martin Lewis warns that using a debit card while overdrawn can be more expensive than using a credit card, because overdraft interest rates are often higher. He advises people with multiple debts to make minimum payments on lower-interest debts while directing spare money toward the debt with the highest interest rate, typically an overdraft. He also stresses that credit-card balances should be paid in full each month, warning that even a small shortfall can trigger interest charges on the entire balance.

An American Heart Association scientific statement reports that up to 400 mg of caffeine daily—roughly three to five cups of black coffee—is generally safe for most adults and may be associated with lower risks of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, heart failure and some arrhythmias. Unfiltered coffee can raise LDL cholesterol because of its cafestol content, while added sugar, syrups, milk or cream may reduce potential benefits. High-caffeine energy drinks and shots may increase blood pressure and irregular heart rhythms, and individual responses vary according to health, medications, genetics and caffeine metabolism.

Morrisons has begun a programme to close around 100 loss-making Morrisons Daily convenience stores, starting with branches in Woodley, Berkshire, and Stokesley, North Yorkshire. The stores were largely former McColl’s outlets acquired in 2022, and hundreds of employees could face redundancy, although Morrisons says it will consult staff and redeploy workers where possible. At least 52 Post Office branches operating from affected stores are expected to close or relocate, with the Post Office seeking new retailers to host replacement services. Morrisons cited prolonged poor performance and rising costs, including higher wages and national insurance, while saying it still plans to expand its franchise convenience business.

During a heatwave in the UK, temperatures exceeded 34°C for an eighth day in 2026, setting a new annual record, while amber heat-health alerts were issued for the Midlands and southern England. ITV doctor Amir Khan said most people do not need electrolyte powders or added salt in their water because plain water and a balanced diet are sufficient for everyday hydration. Electrolytes may be useful after prolonged, intense exercise in hot conditions or during illness involving significant fluid loss, but excess salt intake can affect blood pressure.

TUI is changing its long-haul economy service from November 1, 2026, ending complimentary alcoholic drinks except for one beer or wine served with the main meal. Soft drinks will remain free, while additional alcoholic beverages can be purchased; Premium passengers will retain complimentary drinks. Customers who booked affected holidays before the change will receive a £12.50 per-person, each-way goodwill refund. Travellers expressed anger over the small refund and questioned the value of the revised service, while TUI said the policy would help keep fares competitive and give passengers more choice. The report also highlights TUI Airways' poor 2025 punctuality record, including average delays of 20 minutes and 24 seconds and a 46-minute average delay on Birmingham–Zante flights.

A GP outlines practical ways to stay cool and improve sleep during an intense UK heatwave, cautioning that ice‑cold showers can hinder heat loss by constricting blood vessels. Advice includes using cool rather than cold water, improving airflow, blocking daytime heat then ventilating at night, staying hydrated, and avoiding heavy meals and alcohol before bed. The UK Health Security Agency has issued amber and yellow heat alerts as temperatures in parts of England may reach the mid‑30s Celsius. Persistent sleep problems beyond the heatwave should be assessed by a doctor.

Annabel Croft discusses her health‑focused, meat‑heavy ketogenic diet, describing her strong preference for red meat and minimally processed foods. She follows a low‑carbohydrate, sugar‑free eating routine shaped partly by her late husband Mel Coleman's cancer journey. Her meals typically include bacon and eggs for breakfast, protein‑rich salads for lunch, and substantial cuts of meat such as ribeye for dinner, with snacks consisting of nuts, seeds and chickpeas. She maintains this approach while presenting the BBC’s Wimbledon coverage and credits it for supporting her energy and athleticism.

Nine major UK banks will implement improvements to basic bank accounts after an FCA investigation found inconsistent support for vulnerable customers. The firms agreed to clearer communication, easier account access for people without standard identification or fixed addresses, and better recognition of customer vulnerability. UK Finance backed the commitment, highlighting the importance of basic accounts in promoting financial inclusion for over four million users across the UK.

New UK consumer protection rules now prohibit hidden online fees, pre‑ticked optional extras, and misleading timers. The Competition and Markets Authority has fined StubHub and Marks Electrical for illegal drip pricing practices and is investigating additional companies. Retailers must display all mandatory charges upfront and provide running cost totals, while consumers are urged to check that online checkouts follow the new standards.

Health experts warn that people over 50 should limit or avoid nine food categories due to metabolic changes and increased health risks. Fried foods, processed and ultra‑processed items, refined sugars and flours, industrial baked goods, processed meats, alcohol, excess salt, red meat, and full‑fat dairy are highlighted as contributors to cardiovascular issues, obesity, cancer risk, and cognitive decline. Experts recommend whole grains, fruits, vegetables, pulses, nuts, oily fish, and healthy fats as better dietary choices to support heart, bone, and immune health.

Cravings for sweet, fatty foods or carbohydrates may indicate early frontotemporal dementia, according to the Alzheimer’s Society, which notes that the condition’s symptoms begin mildly and worsen over time. Behavioural variant FTD can cause personality shifts, loss of inhibition, compulsive eating, and difficulty recognising social norms. Mana Medical Associates highlights that sudden changes in eating habits, particularly uncontrollable gorging on sweets, may help families identify the condition early, especially since FTD often appears at a younger age and may go unnoticed by those affected. The disorder can impair planning, decision-making, empathy, motivation, and behaviour, while many individuals remain unaware of their symptoms, delaying diagnosis and treatment.

New legally binding rules for UK veterinary practices will introduce mandatory price lists, a cap of £21 on first written prescriptions and £12.50 for additional medicines, clear disclosure of corporate ownership, and advance written estimates for treatments over £500. The Competition and Markets Authority aims to improve transparency, reduce excessive charges, and enhance competition, with major changes starting on September 23. Additional measures include clearer pet care plan pricing, improved cremation cost transparency, limits on out‑of‑hours contract restrictions, and mandatory complaints processes. Large providers must publish price lists by December 2026 and smaller practices by March 2027, with industry groups acknowledging the revised fee caps as workable.

Marks & Spencer issued apologies after running out of World Cup sticker books and sticker packs, leaving customers unable to complete their collections. Shoppers complained about stores ending the promotion midway through the tournament and refusing refunds for incomplete books. M&S said the promotion was limited, highly popular and subject to availability, with no more stock expected. Some stores may still hold remaining stickers, but most locations have exhausted supplies.

Holidaymakers are being targeted by a scam in which individuals posing as friendly locals offer small gifts like bracelets before aggressively demanding money. Former police officer Rav Wilding described the tactic and warned that such encounters can quickly become intimidating, citing an incident in Italy. Survey data from emerchantpay indicates growing concern over travel-related fraud, with many travelers altering their behavior due to financial safety worries. Experts urge verifying accommodations, checking reviews, avoiding bank transfers, and relying on trusted booking channels. Travelers who lose money are advised to contact their bank and report the fraud to authorities.