Mia O'Hare

The UK Office for Product Safety and Standards rejected Bubble Cosmetics’ Sunscreen Pack at the border, classifying it as high risk because mandatory sunscreen instructions and product traceability information were missing. The pack, imported from the United States and sold through retailers including Boots and ASOS, cannot be sold to UK consumers. Separately, specific batches of Simple 730ml Kind to Skin Micellar Cleansing Water were recalled over possible microbiological contamination, with customers told to stop using affected bottles and contact the retailer or Simple’s care line.

Soaking strawberries, blueberries and raspberries in a diluted distilled-vinegar solution for up to 15 minutes may help eliminate mould and bacteria, extending their shelf life. The berries should then be rinsed, dried thoroughly, layered with paper towels in a sealable container, and refrigerated with the lid slightly open to release moisture.

Royal Mail warned that delivery delays were affecting 139 UK postcode areas, with particular disruption linked to local offices and issues at the Leeds and Manchester mail centres. The company attributed some delays to sick absence, staffing shortages and other local factors, while saying its wider air and road network was operating normally. A detailed list of affected delivery offices and postcode areas was provided across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Marks & Spencer recalled its £18 Hand Painted Jug after identifying a risk that the glass could break during use and cause injury. Customers in the UK and Ireland are advised to stop using the jug immediately and return it to an eligible M&S store for a full refund. The Office for Product Safety and Standards said the product failed to meet General Product Safety Regulations 2005 requirements. The report also notes Asda's recall of the Hapello Power Train toy because detachable small parts could pose a choking hazard to young children.

A comparison of Dr Beckmann Cleaning Sheets and Flash All-Purpose Cleaner found that both removed floor marks and stains effectively. Dr Beckmann's sheets dissolved well, produced plenty of suds, used less plastic and took up less storage space, but their scent became weak and somewhat damp-smelling after dilution. Flash was less sudsy but left a shine and retained a stronger lemon fragrance, making it the reviewer's preferred product despite the sheets' environmental and storage advantages.

Royal Mail warned of delivery delays affecting 142 UK postcode areas, citing local issues including high sickness absence, staffing shortages and other operational factors. Although its air and road networks were operating on schedule, some mail centres had not processed or dispatched items as planned. The company said it would rotate deliveries, provide targeted support to affected offices and continue working toward its usual six-day service.

A damp bathroom towel placed in front of an open bedroom window or across a doorway is suggested as a way to cool a room during hot weather without using an electric fan. The towel should be lightly dampened, wrung out, and re-wetted after drying; evaporation is said to cool incoming air and make sleeping more comfortable.

Sustainability expert Wendy Graham recommends three plastic-free methods for extending lettuce’s freshness: wrapping leaves in a dry tea towel, storing washed and dried leaves in a sealed jar, or placing a whole lettuce head in a cup or bowl of water. The tea towel and jar methods keep lettuce fresh for about a week, while the water method can preserve it for one to three weeks, with romaine generally lasting longest.

Cleaning specialist Sophie recommends using citric acid rather than bleach or vinegar to remove toilet limescale. The suggested method is to pour near-boiling water into the bowl, add half a box of citric acid, leave it overnight and scrub the residue the next morning. Persistent deposits may require a second treatment, while adding a spoonful of citric acid regularly is suggested as a preventative measure.

A personal taste test of supermarket lemonades ranked six products by lemon flavour and fizz. Aldi’s 49p lemonade took first place with a rating of 10/10, praised for having the most bubbles and tasting similar to the more expensive Schweppes. Schweppes scored 9/10, while Marks & Spencer, Sainsbury’s, Lidl and Tesco followed with ratings of 6/10, 5/10, 3/10 and 1/10 respectively.

FreshWipes Intimate Unscented Wipes from batches LOT 0926 and LOT 0515 have been recalled across the UK because they may be microbiologically contaminated due to an ineffective preservative system. Consumers are advised to stop using the wipes immediately, contact FreshWipes or the retailer for return, disposal and refund instructions, and seek medical advice if irritation or discomfort occurs. The Office for Product Safety and Standards issued the recall notice, while FreshWipes said no other products are affected.

Travel expert Simon Calder has warned holidaymakers visiting France, Italy or Spain to plan ahead amid widespread European wildfires and extreme heat. Travellers are advised to monitor official alerts, follow local-authority instructions and check whether flights and holiday bookings can be changed or cancelled. Those travelling to affected areas should prepare an evacuation plan, coordinate with family members and keep essential items such as money, water, medication and passports readily accessible.

Waste collectors inspect bins, particularly recycling bins, to ensure they contain only permitted materials. Incorrect items such as vapes can create fires in collection lorries, while contamination can cause an entire load to be rejected and sent to an incinerator. Gedling Borough Council says that contamination of just 5% can prevent otherwise recyclable material from being recycled, potentially increasing disposal costs for councils.

Cleaning windows in direct sunlight is possible but more difficult because hot glass causes soapy water to evaporate quickly, leaving streaks and making it harder to judge whether the glass is clean. Experts Lynsey Crombie and Jake Lucero recommend working in the shade or during cooler parts of the day. The suggested method is to use warm, soapy water, remove debris first, clean from top to bottom, then use a squeegee or window vacuum to remove the water and dry any residue.

Black mould is described as a damp, slimy or fuzzy growth that commonly develops in persistently moist areas and may pose more serious health risks than ordinary mould. Regular mould is generally drier and powdery and is associated with milder symptoms. The article recommends using protective equipment, seeking professional help for black mould, improving ventilation, controlling humidity with a dehumidifier, removing standing water and addressing condensation, rising damp and poor ventilation to prevent mould growth.

A comparison of Vanish PowerGel and Astonish Oxy Active Fabric Stain Remover found that both completely removed tomato sauce stains from a white T-shirt. Astonish was judged the better product because its larger 750ml bottle cost £1.50 versus £4 for Vanish's 200ml bottle, while also being easier to apply and less wasteful. Vanish spread beyond the target area and dispensed more gel than needed.

Hosepipe bans introduced across parts of England and Wales restrict the use of hosepipes, sprinklers and pressure washers, as well as filling pools and washing vehicles. Residents who see possible breaches should check their local water provider for confidential reporting procedures and should not call 999. Water companies stress education first, note that serious or repeated breaches may lead to enforcement, and advise people not to assume a neighbour is acting unlawfully because exemptions apply for health and safety, severe mobility difficulties, certain businesses, commercial or protected plants, food crops and other circumstances.

Alan Titchmarsh recommends annual flowers as an inexpensive and easy way to add colour to gardens and fill gaps in borders. He recalls growing marigolds from seed when money was tight and advises sowing annuals in March, using a greenhouse for tender varieties and direct sowing for hardy calendulas. Plants can also be bought in summer if spring sowing was missed.

Royal Mail has warned that deliveries may be delayed across 90 UK postcodes because of local issues including staff sickness, resourcing problems and other operational factors. Affected areas include Brecon, Cambridge, Gloucester, Milton Keynes, St Helens and Wolverhampton. The company said its air and road networks were operating to schedule, and announced updated delivery cards with QR codes that let customers track missed parcels, view collection details or request redelivery.

A hands-on comparison finds that the Flash Speed Mop is lightweight, easy to manoeuvre and dries floors much faster than a conventional mop and bucket. Its disposable wipes effectively remove stains and suit small areas or quick clean-ups, but they become dirty and dry out after limited use and cost more for extensive cleaning. The standard mop and bucket remains the better choice for cleaning larger areas, while the Flash system is recommended as a convenient supplement for everyday maintenance.

Journalist Angela Patrone deterred pigeons from her garden by hanging old CDs from string in locations where the birds gathered, including a fig tree, roses and a fence. The discs were hung loosely so they could spin and reflect sunlight, then repositioned after several days to prevent the pigeons becoming accustomed to them. She reported seeing no pigeons in the garden for a month, while pest-control specialists said reflective objects can discourage the birds.

Britons are advised to limit alcohol and caffeine during the heatwave because alcohol can worsen sleep quality, while caffeine may contribute to fluid loss and increased body temperature. The British Red Cross also recommends maintaining regular eating and bedtime routines and avoiding daytime naps. The Met Office forecasts continued high temperatures followed by limited rain and potentially heavy showers in some areas.

Binman Ashley explains that whether excess rubbish can be left beside a wheelie bin depends on the local council. Some councils permit certain additional waste, while others will not collect anything outside the bin because it may be too heavy, difficult to load safely, or liable to spill. Residents are advised to check their council’s rules and, where excess waste is not accepted, wait until the bin has been emptied before adding it.

Marks and Spencer’s £26 Cupsole Trainers receive predominantly positive reviews for comfort, style and value, with customers appreciating features such as half-size options and Insolia Flex technology. Several reviewers, however, criticise the shoes for lacking support and causing discomfort during prolonged wear. Alternatives from Tu at Sainsbury’s and Next are highlighted as affordable and well-reviewed summer trainer options.

Royal Mail warns of delivery delays affecting 141 postcode areas across the UK due to staffing and local operational issues, while maintaining that mail centres and national networks are running to schedule. The company outlines efforts to rotate deliveries, provide support to affected offices, and improve performance following a £21 million Ofcom fine for missed delivery targets. Chief operating officer Jamie Stephenson highlights ongoing investments and reforms aimed at meeting new delivery standards ahead of the Christmas period.

A simple routine of pouring boiling water down the kitchen drain eliminated a developing fly infestation by destroying larvae and removing grease that attracts pests. Complementary steps including soda crystals, apple cider vinegar traps, and storing fruit in the fridge helped prevent flies from returning. Regular drain cleaning allowed windows to be left open without attracting insects.

A cheap box of Fabulosa tumble dryer sheets from B&M proved highly effective for dusting, lifting dirt easily while leaving a strong fresh scent. Their anti-static properties helped keep surfaces cleaner for longer, and they can also freshen drawers or address minor laundry issues. The writer found them surprisingly efficient compared with traditional polish and cloth, noting only slight stickiness on hands during use.

Switching from boiling to roasting enhances carrots’ sweetness by allowing them to brown and caramelise. Coating them in a honey‑garlic glaze before and after roasting creates a glossy, flavourful side dish. The method involves high‑heat roasting, seasoning well, and finishing with lemon juice and optional parsley for brightness.

Advice focuses on preventing flies and maggots in household bins by using natural repellents such as mint, lavender, and scented oils, as well as keeping bins clean, sealed and shaded. Fareham Council’s guidance highlights double‑bagging food waste, reducing smells and regularly cleaning bins. Recommended steps for eliminating existing maggots include using boiling water and scented cleaning products.

Sunlight is recommended as a natural method for brightening white clothing and removing stains, using UV rays to break down marks and disinfect fabrics. Wet, freshly washed items achieve the best results when laid flat in direct sunlight for several hours, avoiding delicate materials. Lemon juice can be applied for additional whitening, though overexposure may weaken fabric and repeated treatments may be needed for stubborn stains.

Dunelm has reduced its Miami Bistro Set by 50 percent, drawing praise from customers for its style and value, though some note the chairs can be uncomfortable without cushions. Comparable compact garden sets are also available from B&Q and Wilko, both offering rattan-style designs at competitive prices and receiving positive customer feedback for comfort, assembly and appearance.

A shopper who usually buys groceries at Sainsbury’s and Asda found Lidl’s steak selection larger, cheaper and better quality than the alternatives. After trying several options, Lidl’s sirloin steak proved particularly impressive in tenderness and flavour, outperforming comparable cuts at other major UK supermarkets and making Lidl the preferred choice for future meals.

The Millau Viaduct in southern France, designed by Norman Foster, stands 343 metres tall and surpasses the Eiffel Tower in height. Completed in 2004 at a cost of £345 million, the structure forms part of the motorway linking Paris to the Mediterranean and was engineered with a slight curve and incline to enhance driver safety. The bridge withstands strong winds through protective side screens and attracts significant tourism, offering guided tours and panoramic viewpoints. Visitors frequently describe it as an exceptional engineering achievement.

A reviewer describes switching from standard sponges to the dual‑sided Scrub Mummy, highlighting its durability, temperature‑responsive texture, ease of cleaning, and ability to stay odour‑free. The product speeds up washing up, works on various surfaces without scratching, and lasts longer despite a higher upfront cost, making it a recommended choice for household cleaning.

A £12 million waterpark called Lost Lagoon has opened at Haven’s Kent Coast Holiday Park as part of a wider £50 million investment. The attraction features slides, splash zones and family‑focused facilities, with television personality Joe Swash attending the launch. Haven leadership highlighted increasing domestic tourism and the company’s commitment to enhancing guest experiences.

Rising temperatures during the UK’s third heatwave of the year are increasing pressure on household fridges and freezers, prompting warnings to improve ventilation, avoid overpacking, and limit door openings to reduce energy use and maintain food safety. Expert advice highlights the need for proper air circulation around appliances, clean coils, and balanced storage, while the Met Office links worsening heat events to climate change and associated health and infrastructure risks.

A refuse collector warns that polystyrene should not be placed in household recycling bins, as doing so may result in bins being rejected for collection. He advises removing non‑recyclable materials from cardboard packaging before disposal. Recycle Now and London Recycles confirm that polystyrene is rarely recycled due to processing difficulties and should be placed in general waste, with consumers encouraged to avoid polystyrene packaging where possible.

John Lewis recalled 15 doorstops and draught excluders after finding possible asbestos contamination in marble chips used inside the products. The Office for Product Safety and Standards issued the safety notice, warning of health risks even from low‑level exposure. Customers are instructed to stop using the items, secure or dispose of them safely, and return them for a refund or seek disposal advice from local councils. John Lewis apologised for the issue, and the recall follows a similar action by Dunelm earlier in the year.

Phuket in Thailand ranks as the world’s most overcrowded tourist destination with 118 visitors per resident, according to research by MoneyTransfers.com. Pattaya and Krabi follow, giving Thailand the most entries in the top ten. Other crowded destinations include Heraklion, Venice, Rhodes and Miami. Venice, facing around 30 million visitors annually, has introduced and is considering increasing an entry fee to curb overtourism, with proposals to raise it up to €50.

Soft-plastic crisp and chocolate wrappers cannot be recycled through household collections in most UK areas due to limited processing capability. Refuse collector Ashley, known as The No1 Binman, advises that these wrappers should be taken to supermarkets offering soft‑plastic recycling, with general waste as the fallback. WRAP notes that national kerbside recycling for soft plastics is still not widely available, and past discoveries of decades‑old packaging highlight the persistence of such materials in the environment.

Turkey’s 1915 Çanakkale Bridge, spanning 2,023 meters between Europe and Asia, currently holds the title of the world’s longest suspension bridge, surpassing Japan’s Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. Opened in 2022 after construction began in 2017, it significantly reduces travel time across the Dardanelles Strait and commemorates key dates in Turkish history. Italy is considering building a 3,300‑meter bridge linking the mainland to Sicily, which could overtake the record, though seismic risks, strong currents and environmental concerns remain points of debate.

Hot weather across the UK is expected to intensify, prompting advice from British Gas on using kitchen and bathroom extractor fans to improve ventilation and reduce indoor temperatures. Running extractor fans with internal doors open helps remove warm air, while opening windows and vents elsewhere allows cooler air to circulate. Households are also advised to keep unused rooms closed during the day and open windows only during cooler morning or evening hours to release trapped heat.

UK postal law under the Postal Services Act 2000 makes it an offence to intentionally open mail not addressed to the recipient, including a partner’s post without permission. Offences can lead to fines or imprisonment of up to six months. Royal Mail advises marking incorrectly delivered letters as not known at the address and returning them to a postbox for redelivery or return to sender.

Mary Berry’s quick Parma ham and pimento penne recipe offers a simple midweek meal that serves four and can be prepared in under 30 minutes. The dish combines crispy Parma ham, roasted red peppers, herbs, crème fraîche and Parmesan, with options to substitute the ham or reduce preparation time. Clear step‑by‑step instructions guide cooking the pasta, preparing the sauce and finishing with herbs and cheese for a fast, flavorful result.

A comparative taste test of six supermarket mayonnaises found Asda’s 96p option to be the top performer due to its balanced tang, richness and smooth texture, surpassing the branded Hellmann’s. Aldi tied with Hellmann’s in quality, while Marks and Spencer offered a lighter premium alternative. Sainsbury’s placed mid‑table, and Lidl and Tesco ranked lowest due to weak flavour and an overly vinegary taste respectively.

Alan Titchmarsh recommends using trailing plants such as ivy and bacopa to keep hanging baskets full and colourful, advising gardeners to insert the root ball through basket holes to protect foliage. He suggests mixing water storage crystals into compost to maintain moisture during hot weather. The RHS notes that hanging baskets dry out quickly and recommends considering automated drip irrigation systems for consistent watering.

Travel expert Simon Calder dismisses the idea that using incognito mode lowers flight prices, explaining that fare changes typically result from other customers booking seats in a competitive market. He warns travellers to check EU passport validity rules, noting that passports older than ten years or lacking three months’ validity after return can lead to denied entry and ruined holidays.

A batch of Minton and Donello Organic White Orzo has been recalled in England and Wales after the Food Standards Agency identified undeclared wheat gluten and incorrect labelling describing the product as white rice. The FSA warned that the pasta poses a health risk to people with wheat or gluten allergies or coeliac disease. Dundeis UK Ltd issued an apology and instructed customers to return affected 500g packs with batch code 78850 and various 2027 best‑before dates for a full refund. Products were sold through several major retailers.

Aldi was ranked the cheapest UK supermarket for June 2026 in a Which? comparison of a 95‑item basket, narrowly beating Lidl, which offered further savings through its Lidl Plus app. Loyalty schemes at Sainsbury's and Tesco significantly reduced prices, though non‑members faced much higher costs. Asda and Morrisons sat mid‑range, while Waitrose was the most expensive, costing over 40 percent more than Aldi. Which? warned that loyalty‑dependent pricing creates steep disparities for shoppers and highlighted supermarket choice as a key factor in reducing grocery bills.

Tesco and Lidl recalled several ham products due to possible Listeria contamination, following a warning issued by the Food Standards Agency. The affected items, produced by O'Brien Fine Foods, are being withdrawn in Northern Ireland, with customers advised not to eat them and to return them for a refund. The NHS highlighted symptoms and risks associated with listeriosis, particularly for vulnerable groups, and provided guidance on when to seek medical help.

A taste test comparing supermarket digestive biscuits found Aldi’s version performed best due to balanced flavour and good consistency at a low price, outperforming McVitie’s. Lidl’s and M&S’s offerings were criticised for flavour and texture issues, while Asda’s provided acceptable taste but poor structure. McVitie’s remained a strong favourite but was beaten on value by Aldi.

Frying and sautéing differ in fat quantity, heat level and technique. Sautéing uses minimal oil over high heat for small pieces that require light browning and occasional stirring, while frying submerges food partially in more fat at lower heat to achieve crispness and deeper flavour. Sauté pans with straight sides are ideal for sautéing, while shallow pans with sloped sides suit frying and allow steam to escape.

Mary Berry’s chicken, avocado, and bacon salad is highlighted as an ideal summer dish requiring minimal preparation time. The recipe features a yoghurt and tarragon dressing, includes easily assembled fresh ingredients, and is suitable for various dietary needs. Instructions cover marinating the chicken, preparing crispy bacon, and assembling the salad in lettuce cups, offering a simple and refreshing meal option.