Matt Davies

Gardeners' World viewers criticised Monty Don after he demonstrated pruning euphorbia characias wulfenii without explicitly warning that its milky sap can burn skin and seriously damage the eyes. Although Don wore gloves, viewers called for additional protective equipment, while the programme's social media caption advised wearing gloves and long sleeves and avoiding contact with the eyes. The article also recounts Martin Roberts' severe eye injury after rubbing his eyes following contact with euphorbia sap, noting that exposure can cause irritation, blurred vision, temporary blindness and, in some cases, permanent damage.

Rachel Riley joked about Countdown host Colin Murray’s pronunciation and attempted a Northern Irish accent during a BBC Radio Ulster interview with Anne-Marie Wallace. Riley affectionately described Murray as an intensely enthusiastic Countdown fan who would play every role on the programme if he could, before teasing his difficulty saying words such as “mirror” and “power shower.” She then jokingly asked whether the accent had left her “cancelled,” but Wallace reassured her. Riley also discussed her long tenure as Countdown’s numbers expert, her appreciation for the programme’s intergenerational audience, and how grateful she was that social media was not widespread when she began her television career.

Kelvin Fletcher describes giving his children a gadget‑free upbringing on their family farm, saying rural life provides freedom and space that supports the household’s strict ban on tablets and similar devices. He and wife Liz reflect on their hopes for the future of the 120‑acre farm, expressing excitement about the legacy their children might build as they grow and decide whether to continue farming.

Frida Redknapp described how developing her new cooking-blend brand Frood involved months of dehydrating ingredients at home, drawing curiosity from her husband Jamie and their children. She explained the goal of creating quick, convenient meal solutions and reflected on the dynamics of their blended family, emphasising patience and the unifying role of their youngest son. A conversation with another parent inspired her to expand her food content into a full business venture.

Adam Frost explained that sweet pea plants can become spindly and struggle to recover in hot weather, noting they perform best when started around Christmas and carefully watered. He highlighted the impact of recent fluctuating conditions and offered guidance on sowing and caring for the flowers. Frost also reflected on leaving a cherished garden after moving home, saying the new owners are enjoying it.

Davina McCall reflects on her past heroin addiction in an emotional podcast conversation with her friend Sarah Hiscox, who recalls fearing for her wellbeing as her drug use escalated in the late 1980s. Hiscox describes confronting McCall during what became a turning point, after which McCall stopped using drugs. McCall expresses gratitude for the intervention, acknowledging the shame and loss of control she felt during that period.