Chloe Dobinson

Rising rents, business rates, staffing and energy costs, alongside online shopping and changing consumer habits, are driving further UK high street closures. Bodean’s has shut all three of its remaining London restaurants, TGJones is closing its Southend-on-Sea store on September 26, and Whitbread is closing all 20 Bar + Block restaurants on September 3. Halifax is closing 15 branches between September 8 and 30 as many locations rebrand to Lloyds, while Lloyds Bank and NatWest are also closing branches in August. Campaigners warn that bank closures are creating barriers to financial independence for older and vulnerable customers who rely on face-to-face services.

James Martin revealed that he once feared his television career could end, explaining that concerns about losing his livelihood contributed to his intense work ethic. Simon Rimmer recalled Martin sleeping in a camper van to arrive early for events and continuing to work despite his success. Martin, who hosted BBC's Saturday Kitchen from 2006 to 2016 before launching James Martin's Saturday Morning on ITV, also discussed his facial cancer diagnosis in 2017, surgery in 2018 and the difficult period surrounding his treatment.

Bognor Regis was ranked the UK's worst seaside town by Which? for the second consecutive year after a survey of more than 5,300 visitors. YouTuber James Burton visited the town and Butlin's Bognor Regis Resort to test the verdict, calling the criticism “absolute waffle” and praising the resort, beach, friendly people and value for money. A Mirror contributor who grew up in Bognor agreed that the town has declined, citing an empty centre and neglected promenade, but Burton left impressed enough to plan a return visit with his daughter.

Several UK retailers, charity shops, a café chain and a veterinary practice are closing branches or ceasing operations amid online shopping, changing consumer habits, weak footfall and rising costs. The British Heart Foundation plans to close around 150 of its roughly 640 shops by March 2028; Topps Tiles is shutting 23 branches; and Card Centre, Peacocks, Merrie England and Vale Veterinary Centre have announced additional closures. The closures are expected to affect local services, staff, customers and high-street communities across the UK.

Tenterden in Kent is presented as an underrated destination with a resilient, tree-lined high street dominated by independent shops, cafés, galleries and specialist retailers. The town attracts visitors through its historic architecture, festivals, restaurants and award-winning Chapel Down Winery. Its maritime past, the Kent & East Sussex Railway and nearby attractions including Bodiam Castle, Rye, Sissinghurst and Camber Sands add to its appeal as a base for exploring Kent and East Sussex.

France’s Millau Bridge, designed by Norman Foster, remains the world’s tallest bridge at 1,104 feet, featuring a curved and inclined structure engineered to enhance driver safety and stability in high winds. Its distinctive design and dramatic height have made it a major attraction, with visitors praising its scale, engineering and driving experience.

A nutrition expert argues that most healthy people do not need to drink a fixed two litres of water daily and should instead follow their thirst, noting that hydration needs vary by age, health and activity. She warns against routine use of rehydration salts due to sodium levels and highlights the role of food in meeting hydration needs. Additional medical advice suggests that water requirements depend on body weight and lifestyle, with both overhydration and dehydration posing health risks.

A pharmacist outlines short‑term bodily reactions after consuming Diet Coke, suggesting effects on tooth enamel, insulin response, cravings and potential long‑term risks tied to artificial sweeteners such as aspartame. Research cited links diet fizzy drinks to possible weight gain, cardiovascular risks, kidney issues and bone density loss, though some findings remain inconclusive. The article describes a timeline of responses from 20 to 60 minutes after drinking, highlighting increased fat storage signals, overstimulation from caffeine and aspartame, and heightened hunger and thirst, concluding that the beverage may dehydrate and provide no nutritional benefit.

Sleep specialist Michael Breus recommends bananas as a natural aid for falling asleep due to their magnesium content, alongside kiwis, Greek yoghurt and pineapple for their calming or melatonin-supporting properties. Research links magnesium with a healthy circadian rhythm and improved melatonin production. Experts also warn that consuming alcohol within four hours of bedtime can disrupt sleep by causing fragmented patterns and increased nighttime waking.

High temperatures increase fruit fly activity, prompting a simple suggestion of placing a clean 1p coin in a fruit bowl, a method some believe helps repel the insects due to copper. The approach is inexpensive and easy but not guaranteed, with experts stressing that removing ripe fruit, cleaning spills and managing food waste are far more effective for preventing infestations.

Forecasts show temperatures reaching up to 34C across southern and central England, prompting amber heat-health alerts and concerns over consecutive tropical nights. Energy experts recommend placing bowls of cold water or ice near open windows to lower indoor temperatures, with the effect enhanced by using a fan. British Gas supports the method as a low‑cost cooling alternative to air conditioning, offering additional advice to maximise fan efficiency.

Travel experts outline fines and safety regulations affecting tourists in Spanish destinations including Benidorm, Alicante and Majorca, highlighting penalties for night swimming, nudity on non‑designated beaches, smoking or drinking on beaches, using unlicensed taxis, and causing noise disturbances. Authorities in the Balearic Islands are also increasing enforcement against unlicensed parties, which can lead to substantial fines. Holidaymakers are advised to follow local rules to avoid penalties and stay safe.

A shopper’s low-cost method for keeping laundry smelling fresh involves using £1.50 Dr Beckmann fabric conditioner sheets, which dissolve in the wash and provide a long-lasting scent. Nicola Roy reports strong results when drying clothes indoors. Additional cleaning advice includes adding alcohol-based mouthwash to washing machines to eliminate bacteria and odours, alongside routine maintenance using washing machine cleaners, vinegar or baking soda.

Research by Which? found Asda offered the cheapest prices on branded goods for the fifth consecutive month, with a June basket averaging £783.31. Tesco, Sainsbury's and Morrisons charged significantly more, particularly for shoppers without loyalty cards, while Waitrose and Ocado fell between the loyalty and non‑loyalty price points. Some branded items showed price differences of more than 100%, with half of the biggest disparities linked to loyalty card discounts. Which? urged consumers to monitor price fluctuations and compare retailers to avoid overpaying.

Wildlife experts advise gardeners to support birds during the summer breeding season by offering suitable foods such as sliced apples and pears along with water. The RSPB and CJ Wildlife highlight that year-round feeding supports declining species, provides essential energy for adults and their young, and counters outdated beliefs that feeding should occur only in winter. Guidance includes avoiding seeds in summer, maintaining feeder hygiene, and placing food where birds feel safe from predators.

HMV has reopened in Chelmsford eight years after the chain’s collapse, launching a new store in The Meadows Shopping Centre with more than 20,000 items across music, books and film. Backed by owner Doug Putnam, the retailer has expanded to over 120 UK and Ireland locations, while also trading in Belgium and the Netherlands. The new site replaces a former Next unit and includes thousands of vinyl records, CDs, boxsets and collectables.

Gardeners are advised to remove invasive English ivy using a natural homemade spray made from apple cider vinegar, salt and washing‑up liquid, which dries out ivy leaves within several days. Experts warn that ivy can damage brickwork and compete with plants, recommending protective gloves, repeated treatments if needed and manual removal of roots to prevent regrowth. Additional steps such as cutting stems, digging out roots and using copper or zinc materials can help stop ivy from returning.

Rising travel costs are prompting many UK travellers to seek cheaper holiday options for 2026, with research from credit card firm Aqua identifying Albania as the most affordable European destination. Blackpool ranks ninth overall and is the only UK location in the top ten, supported by low attraction and fuel costs. The article highlights Blackpool’s popular attractions, particularly Blackpool Pleasure Beach, which receives strong visitor reviews. London, Brighton and Falmouth rank as the most expensive UK staycation spots due to high accommodation prices, though London benefits from several free major attractions. The piece concludes with a list of the top ten cheapest European destinations for 2026.

Adele’s significant weight loss is attributed to a consistent fitness routine involving weights, hiking, boxing and cardio, motivated initially by anxiety rather than dieting. She stated she works out up to three times a day and emphasized she followed no restrictive diet. The transformation coincided with personal challenges, including the breakdown of her marriage, and fitness became a positive focus during that period. The article highlights her recent appearance at the British Grand Prix and renewed public interest in her health journey.

Experts state that bread, pasta and rice can contribute to a balanced diet despite common beliefs that carbohydrates cause weight gain. Research from the University of Minnesota indicates that pasta is not associated with increased body fat and may correlate with lower BMI when eaten as part of a healthy diet. Nutrition specialists highlight pasta’s slow digestion, Italy’s low obesity rates despite high pasta consumption, and the risks of cutting carbs entirely. Bread’s nutritional value depends on processing, with traditional varieties like sourdough offering better health benefits. Pairing these foods with nutrient‑dense ingredients enhances their value while avoiding ultra‑processed meals.

Almost six million people in the UK are estimated to have diabetes, including more than 4.7 million diagnosed cases and 1.3 million undiagnosed type 2 cases. Type 1 diabetes results from the body’s inability to produce insulin and often develops quickly, while type 2 diabetes involves insufficient or ineffective insulin and typically develops gradually. Each type presents similar symptoms, including tiredness, increased thirst and urination, and unintentional weight loss, with additional risks such as heart and kidney disease linked to type 2. Lifestyle changes can help manage or even achieve remission of type 2 diabetes.

Police data shows 1,626 dogs were reported stolen in the UK in 2025, with only a small proportion recovered. French Bulldogs were the most frequently stolen breed. The Metropolitan Police area recorded the highest number of thefts, while Lancashire saw the sharpest rise. Several other regions experienced significant year‑on‑year changes. The article highlights ongoing risks despite the 2024 Pet Abduction Act and advises owners to use microchips, keep records updated, and take preventative security measures such as GPS trackers and secured environments.

Cherimoya is highlighted as the top‑ranked fruit on a BBC list of the world’s most nutritious foods, praised for its high levels of vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants. Experts cite potential benefits for immunity, inflammation and heart and eye health, while noting that certain parts of the fruit can be toxic if consumed in excess. Its creamy, sweet flesh is compared to a mix of banana and pineapple. Though available in the UK, cherimoya can be difficult to find in major supermarkets, with specialist retailers more likely to stock it.

A former US Army commander known for his work in military paranormal research recounted a Vietnam War gunner’s near‑death experience after a helicopter crash. The gunner, Jim, described an out‑of‑body view of the wreckage and a hooded figure telling him he was not dead. His elevated perspective reportedly helped guide rescuers to safety, which Col. John Alexander characterized as a rare instance where an out‑of‑body vision aligned with real‑world events.

Pest control specialists warn that rat activity increases during summer as food sources become more accessible. Experts highlight peppermint oil as a natural deterrent, recommending its use around sheds, bin areas, and entry points while emphasising prevention through sanitation and blocking gaps. Signs of rat presence include droppings, scratching, gnaw marks, and burrows, and persistent infestations should be handled by professionals.

Experts advise keeping windows, curtains and blinds closed during the hottest parts of the day to block warm air and sunlight, then opening windows in the evening to create a cooling cross‑breeze. Additional guidance stresses managing indoor temperature for better sleep, focusing on personal cooling, and maintaining home security by avoiding windows left open during the day. The consensus supports a strategic, time‑based approach to ventilation during heatwaves.

Gabby Logan described feeling devastated after learning her daughter Lois had faced bullying during her school years, recounting the experience on her Mid.Point podcast. She explained how Lois’ heightened awareness of peer dynamics stemmed from earlier difficulties. Psychologist Dr Tara Proctor advised parents to balance empathy with restraint before intervening, emphasizing the importance of understanding a child’s perspective and assessing whether issues are chronic. The article also notes Gabby’s reflections on taking Lois to university and her evolving role as a parent.

A Canadian nurse, Julia Evans, recounts a severe allergic reaction to lilies at work that triggered anaphylaxis, an accidental overdose of epinephrine, and cardiac arrest. During the medical emergency she describes perceived out-of-body and near-death experiences, including visions of deceased loved ones and a sensation of profound light and peace. After resuscitation, she endured months of recovery and later reported heightened psychic sensitivity and a reassessment of her life.

Warmer weather and peak tourist season are prompting reminders that removing pebbles, seashells or sand from UK beaches is illegal under the Coast Protection Act 1949, with fines up to £1,000. Ecologists warn that taking natural materials can damage coastal ecosystems and increase erosion. Local councils enforce the rule at busy destinations, while experts emphasise the importance of preserving natural sea defences and habitats for wildlife.

A sleep expert outlines three warning signs that indicate when persistent sleep issues should prompt a visit to a GP: sleeplessness lasting more than four weeks, ongoing daytime fatigue, and exhaustion of self-help measures such as reducing caffeine or improving sleep routines. Adults are reminded of the importance of seven to nine hours of nightly rest, and those seeking medical support are advised to track sleep habits and provide detailed information to help identify appropriate treatment.

Dark chocolate with high cocoa content, ideally 70% or higher and especially at 100%, is identified as the healthiest option due to its high levels of antioxidants, polyphenols and flavanols. Nutrition experts note that chocolate with minimal added ingredients and no dairy offers the greatest health benefits. Several 100% cocoa products from brands such as Hotel Chocolat, Montezuma’s and Firetree are recommended for their nutritional profile and naturally complex flavours.

Green beans are highlighted as one of the healthiest vegetables due to their cholesterol-lowering saponins, high fibre content and antioxidant levels, while also offering substantial amounts of vitamins C, A and folate at a low cost from major UK supermarkets. A BBC ranking places Swiss chard highest among vegetables and includes several fish species, with ocean perch and flat fish noted for their strong nutritional benefits.

The Garden Centre Association named The Old Railway Line Garden Centre in Powys, Wales, the best in the UK following surprise inspections that evaluated service, quality and visitor experience. The family-run centre, founded by Mark and Christina Cleary in 1990, has expanded into a large site featuring a farm shop, restaurant and extensive retail areas. It also won awards for Best Farm Shop, Best Garden Products Retailer and placed highly in several other categories, while reaffirming its Centre of Excellence status. Management credited the staff for the centre’s success and emphasised a continued commitment to improvement.

Experts advise storing potatoes with an apple to slow sprouting through ethylene gas exposure, combined with keeping them in a cool, dark, dry place. They note that refrigerator storage is now considered safe and can extend shelf life significantly. Regular checks for sprouting or green patches are recommended due to potential toxins. A YouTuber suggests an alternative long-term storage method using a cardboard box, paper layers and baking soda to absorb moisture and limit sprouting.

Hot weather in the UK increases the risk of tomato blight, a fungal disease that destroys plants and persists in soil. Monty Don recommends removing lower tomato leaves to improve ventilation and reduce splashback that spreads spores, a task that takes less than five minutes and can help secure a healthy July harvest. Proper pruning, done gradually and avoiding over-cutting, helps airflow, speeds drying after rain, and reduces infection risk, offering the best preventative measure since blight has no cure.

A major study using data from 9.9 million people links ultra-processed foods to more than 30 health issues, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity and some cancers, though the findings do not confirm direct causation. Researchers call for urgent public health action while noting that associated risks may stem from high levels of fat, sugar or salt. Common UK sources of ultra-processed foods include ready meals, packaged breads, cereals and soft drinks. Expert Chris Van Tulleken recommends replacing ready-made pasta sauces with simple passata and herbs for a healthier alternative.

Research indicates that vocal changes such as a softer, monotonous voice may appear decades before traditional motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. A University of Arizona study on zebra finches found that a Parkinson’s‑linked gene reduces vocal frequency and intensity in birds, mirroring early human symptoms. Advances in voice‑based screening show high accuracy in identifying the disease, and experts note that bradykinesia can significantly affect speech patterns as the condition progresses.

Morrisons plans to shut 100 loss‑making convenience stores following increased operating costs linked to government wage and insurance measures, with seven sites already confirmed for closure. Hundreds of jobs are at risk, though alternative roles may be offered. The chain reported slowing sales growth amid competitive market conditions but remains optimistic about future performance and continues to expand its franchise network while pursuing a £1 billion cost‑saving strategy.

Research from University College London links cooler indoor temperatures to higher blood pressure, showing measurable increases in both systolic and diastolic readings for every degree drop. Authors note that inadequate home heating may contribute to elevated hypertension rates and related cardiovascular risks during winter. Experts suggest clinicians consider indoor temperature when diagnosing borderline hypertension and recommend maintaining living spaces at a minimum of 21°C. The article also outlines NHS‑recognised risk factors and prevention measures for high blood pressure.

Gardeners are encouraged to add natural stones or rocks to birdbaths to help small birds such as robins safely access water, particularly when the bath lacks a gentle slope. Flat natural stones offer stability and prevent slipping. Regular maintenance, including refreshing water and keeping baths clean, is emphasised, with copper coins suggested as a way to limit algae growth. The RSPB advises against feeding birds seeds or peanuts between May and October due to disease‑spread concerns.