Sophie Buchan

Prostate Cancer UK is urging people to use its free 30-second prostate cancer risk checker, which asks about age, family history, Black or mixed Black ethnicity, and BRCA gene variants. The checker explains whether someone may be at higher risk and provides guidance on speaking to a GP, genetic testing and screening. The article highlights Chris Hoy’s stage 4 diagnosis as a reminder not to dismiss unusual symptoms, while outlining urinary, sexual and other possible signs of prostate cancer. Early detection can make treatment easier, although people can develop the disease even without the main known risk factors.

Research suggests that eating dinner more than two hours before bedtime may improve blood-glucose regulation by aligning food intake with the body's circadian rhythm. Studies comparing meals at 6pm, 9pm and 10pm found that earlier dinners were associated with better 24-hour glucose control, improved lipid metabolism and lower overnight glucose and insulin levels. Earlier meal timing may support metabolic health and reduce risks associated with diabetes and cardiovascular disease, although there is no single ideal dinner time for everyone.

Gordon Ramsay says he typically has black coffee and a croissant after a morning gym session, followed by flat whites during the day. Johns Hopkins Medicine cites research associating coffee consumption with lower risks of Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, Parkinson’s disease and some liver problems, while noting that further study is needed. The British Heart Foundation says up to 400mg of caffeine daily is generally safe for most adults, but excessive intake can cause anxiety, sleep problems and palpitations; pregnant people are advised to limit consumption to 200mg or less. Added sugar, syrups, whole milk and cream can increase calorie, saturated-fat and cholesterol intake.

Glasgow Airport has advised passengers to report delayed or missing checked luggage before leaving the airport by completing a Property Irregularity Report and retaining the reference number. Travellers should track their baggage, contact the airline if it has not arrived within seven days, and keep boarding cards, luggage labels, receipts, proof of purchase, damage photographs and repair estimates for compensation claims. Airlines generally have 21 days to return luggage; after that, it can be treated as lost, with separate deadlines applying to damaged, delayed and missing baggage claims.

UK households need a TV Licence costing £180 a year for colour television if they watch or record live television on any service or use BBC iPlayer. On-demand programmes on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and Disney+ do not require a licence, while live television streamed through Netflix, Prime Video or YouTube does. DVDs, gaming, YouTube user-generated content and non-television livestreams are exempt, and watching without the required licence can lead to a fine of up to £1,000, or £2,000 in Guernsey.

Persistent fullness despite eating very little can be an early warning sign that warrants medical attention, although it is not necessarily caused by cancer. Other symptoms that should be checked include unexplained breathlessness, lumps, difficulty swallowing, changes in bowel or urinary function, and abnormal bleeding. Cancer cannot be completely prevented, but stopping smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, protecting skin from the sun, limiting alcohol, eating a balanced diet, and receiving the HPV vaccine can help reduce risk.

Gordon Ramsay’s oatmeal recipe uses jumbo rolled oats, dates, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and a mixture of milk and water, with apples suggested as an optional addition. Health experts explain that oat beta-glucan may reduce LDL, or “bad,” cholesterol and may also support blood-sugar control, gut health, and weight management. Evidence cited in the piece varies, with one trial reporting a 15% LDL reduction after eight weeks and a broader review finding an average reduction of 4.2%.

Dogs may enjoy belly rubs because their bellies are sensitive, difficult for them to reach, and associated with the release of oxytocin and endorphins that can promote relaxation and bonding. Rolling onto the back can also be a submissive or de-escalating signal rather than an invitation for contact. Relaxed eyes, a loose body, a soft mouth and a gently wagging tail suggest enjoyment, while tension, pinned-back ears, visible eye whites, growling or bared teeth indicate anxiety and a need for space.

A TikTok chef shares a method for making fluffy, creamy scrambled eggs without milk by slowly cooking and repeatedly moving the pan on and off the heat. Adding sour cream or crème fraîche enhances richness, while seasoning finishes the dish. The article also notes the nutritional value of eggs and advises using lighter fats to keep the recipe healthy.

A homemade fly trap using apple cider vinegar and a sweet ingredient such as honey or maple syrup can attract flies through small holes in a foil-covered container. Adding a few drops of dish soap helps trap them. Warm weather, food waste, moisture, drains, pet waste and damp compost can increase fly activity, while persistent infestations may indicate breeding sites or plumbing and sanitation problems.

Glasgow Airport is warning summer travellers that disruptive behaviour can lead to serious consequences, including being denied boarding, an airline ban, imprisonment, fines of up to £80,000 and liability for diversion costs. The airport is promoting its Campus Watch initiative and supporting the aviation industry’s One Too Many campaign, which encourages responsible behaviour and reports reductions in alcohol-related incidents at Glasgow and Manchester airports.

Glasgow Airport allows breastfeeding throughout its terminal and provides private Baby Rooms with seating, bottle warmers and changing facilities, including locations near Gates 1–3 and Gate 16. Its guidance says liquids should generally be under 100ml, while formula, specialist baby milk and food pouches over 100ml may be permitted. Parents may need to taste infant food or milk, should carry only what is necessary, and can take empty Nuby RapidCool flasks through security. Pushchairs may remain assembled but empty, and Priority Security is available for £6.99, with children under three admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult.

Experts advise cleaning and refreshing mattresses every six months, as accumulated fluids, skin, dust mites and bacteria can worsen allergies. Cleaning frequency varies depending on home habits, with those who work or eat in bed needing more frequent upkeep. Signs such as runny nose, itchy eyes and dry throat may indicate the need for cleaning. Mattresses that are worn out, sagging or affected by bedbugs should be replaced, though toppers and protectors can help extend lifespan.

Sir Chris Hoy describes living with stage 4 prostate cancer and encourages awareness of symptoms after initially dismissing shoulder pain as aging. The article outlines his diagnosis, the progression of his illness, and key signs of prostate cancer as explained by Cancer Research UK and the NHS. Hoy continues to stay active, aims to inspire others through the Tour de 4 charity event, and stresses the importance of recognising early warning signs.

Aberdeen Airport urges travellers with hidden disabilities to request assistance in advance and to use the Sunflower lanyard to discreetly indicate support needs. Staff are trained to recognise the lanyards, and passengers can arrange help through airlines or by contacting airport assistance teams. The article highlights the range of conditions supported and notes the widespread adoption of the Sunflower scheme across global transport, education, and public services.

A household cleaning guide explains how bicarbonate of soda can reduce odours in food waste caddies and outlines steps for cleaning, deodorising and maintaining the containers. It highlights advice from consumer group Which? and recommends regular cleaning, drying and the use of compostable liners to prevent spills and unpleasant smells.

The UK’s clocks will go back one hour on October 25, marking the transition from British Summer Time to Greenwich Mean Time. While many expect an extra hour of sleep, mental health experts warn that the time change can disrupt circadian rhythms and increase risks of low mood, fatigue, and Seasonal Affective Disorder. Guidance includes maintaining consistent routines, seeking daylight exposure, staying active and socially connected, and using relaxation techniques to manage stress. Support options such as the Hub of Hope and NHS services are highlighted for those struggling with their mental health.

Guidance from Which? advises washing bedding such as sheets, pillowcases and duvet covers weekly at 60C, with lower temperatures recommended for delicate fabrics like silk. Allergy sufferers may benefit from more frequent high‑temperature washes. Mattress toppers should be cleaned every two to three months, pillows every four to six months depending on material, and duvets once or twice a year, with care labels determining the safest method. Mattresses should be cleaned roughly every six months, with more frequent cleaning suggested for heavy use or allergy symptoms.

Scotland has four remaining bank holidays in 2026, including Summer, St Andrew’s Day, Christmas Day and the Boxing Day substitute. The year included an additional June holiday marking Scotland’s participation in the men’s football World Cup, confirmed by the Scottish Government. Full bank holiday listings for 2026 and 2027 are provided, along with a reminder that paid leave entitlement depends on employment contracts.

Glasgow Airport highlights its support system for travellers with hidden disabilities, including providing sunflower lanyards to discreetly signal the need for additional assistance. Security staff are trained to recognise the lanyard, and passengers must arrange special assistance through their airline so it is added to their booking. The article explains the purpose of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme and notes its global adoption across transport, education, healthcare and public services.

WhatsApp has launched early reservations for upcoming usernames, allowing users to secure unique identifiers that enhance privacy by enabling communication without sharing phone numbers. The feature will roll out over the coming months, with options for individuals, creators, businesses and organisations to claim custom or existing Instagram or Facebook usernames. Additional controls such as an optional username key will help manage who can make first contact.

Edinburgh Airport advises parents traveling during the school summer holidays to prepare for security checks involving children’s items, verify baggage allowances, and use the dedicated family lane to ease the process. Families are urged not to wait for boarding announcements and to head to the gate as soon as it is posted to avoid stress.

Jet2 advises passengers to bring a physical payment card to avoid delays during onboard purchases, noting that only card payments are accepted and contactless options have been updated to include Apple Pay and Google Pay. The airline reiterates rules prohibiting smoking and the consumption of alcohol not purchased on board, and warns that disruptive behaviour may result in removal from the flight or future bans.

Travellers using Glasgow Airport are advised to allow extra time due to major, long‑term roadworks on North Hanover Street that are causing congestion and disrupting bus services to Buchanan Bus Station. The improvements form part of Glasgow’s Avenues project, expected to finish in November 2026, and aim to enhance pedestrian, cycling and accessibility links with broader pavements, new greenery, upgraded lighting and a dedicated cycleway. Glasgow City Council highlights recent progress, including reopened routes and continued transformation of George Square, funded through the £123 million Glasgow City Region City Deal.

Monty Don advises gardeners to collect all grass clippings in July to protect next year’s spring bulb displays and prevent excess nutrients from harming wildflower growth. He notes that wildflower meadows can usually be cut back by late July, stressing the need to remove all cut grass to avoid enriching the soil. Additional guidance from BBC Gardeners' World Magazine recommends mowing only when grass and soil are dry and adjusting mowing frequency with the seasons as climate change affects growth patterns.

Parents are turning to film and TV credits as an unexpected source for baby name inspiration, a method praised in online discussions for offering a wide range of real names. Recent UK baby‑name data shows Eliana overtaking Olivia as the most popular girls' name, with experts attributing the rise to parents seeking elegant and meaningful names that feel distinctive yet timeless.

Ryanair requires all passengers to use digital boarding passes through its app following its switch to fully digital processing, offering free printed passes only if a device is lost after online check-in. Passengers who fail to check in online must pay an airport fee. EasyJet supports mobile passes but highlights airports that do not accept them, requiring travellers from those locations to print paper passes and complete document checks at bag drop. Both airlines promote digital options for convenience and reduced paper use.

Offers guidance on finding the best supermarket yellow‑sticker discounts, recommending early morning or evening shopping for the highest reductions. Notes that discount timing varies by store and is influenced by staffing, stock levels and seasonal demand. Highlights greater markdowns close to closing time and during festive periods, and suggests checking reduced sections regularly and considering own‑brand products to cut costs.

The RSPCA urges dog owners in Scotland and the wider UK to be vigilant for heatstroke symptoms as temperatures rise, warning that behaviours like panting may signal overheating. The guidance outlines signs of heatstroke, identifies higher-risk breeds and conditions, and instructs owners on how to cool dogs safely without worsening their condition. The charity emphasizes cooling pets before transporting them to a vet and highlights the dangers of incorrect cooling methods such as placing damp towels over a dog’s body.

A veterinary expert outlines five dog breeds he loves but avoids owning due to inherited health problems caused by selective breeding, highlighting serious issues in Dachshunds, Pugs, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs. He urges prospective owners to choose health‑tested parents and be aware of potential chronic conditions. He also advises that persistent bad breath in dogs is often linked to dental disease but can indicate more serious illness, stressing early care and veterinary attention.

A travel expert tested a £25 Primark suitcase to see if it meets Ryanair’s updated personal bag size rules, finding it fits under the seat when the removable wheels are taken off. Chelsea Dickenson shared demonstrations on TikTok showing the case passing size checks and offering tips for storing the wheels, while warning that they can detach if not secured properly. Ryanair’s policies on bag sizes and fees for oversized luggage are outlined to help travellers avoid extra charges.

Glasgow Airport outlines free and paid options for dropping off and picking up passengers, including a free hour in the Long Stay car park with shuttle access to the terminal. Standard pick‑up and drop‑off charges start at £7 for 15 minutes, with higher fees for longer stays. Blue Badge holders receive 30 minutes of free parking in the Terminal Multi Storey car park by presenting their badge number at the exit. Guides are provided to help travellers choose the most suitable and cost‑effective parking option.

Motorists are warned that sharing driving licences or V5C log book details online can expose them to identity theft and car cloning, leading to fraudulent fines. The DVLA urges drivers to use only GOV.UK for official services and to ignore unsolicited emails or texts requesting personal or financial information. Fraudulent messages claiming tax refunds should be reported to the National Cyber Security Centre and deleted. Drivers buying or selling vehicles are encouraged to verify log book details to avoid scams.

The DVSA cancelled 450 driving tests and suspended over 4,000 online bookings after detecting misuse of the booking system under rules introduced in spring 2026. The reforms include limits on booking changes, restrictions on test centre moves and a requirement for learners to manage their own bookings. Officials highlighted efforts to prevent test reselling, remove exploitative apps and increase test availability, with senior figures emphasising improved fairness and continued enforcement against rule breaches.

easyJet highlights that midweek flights, especially on Wednesdays and Thursdays, often offer lower fares, with additional savings available during winter months depending on the destination. Warm‑weather destinations such as Spain and Italy tend to have cheaper flights in January and February, while winter destinations like Finland are less expensive in November or March. Travellers are encouraged to use easyJet’s Low Fare Finder to identify the best prices. A separate incident describes a passenger denied boarding to Greece due to passport rules, resulting in a financial loss.

The UK Foreign Office updated travel advice for South Africa, warning of high terrorism risks, rising violent crime and safety concerns in tourist areas, transport hubs and national parks. Travellers are urged to stay alert, avoid isolated or high‑risk areas and exercise caution when using e‑hailing services due to scams, violence and tensions between taxi groups. Following recent violent incidents, including the killing of tourists in Kruger National Park, officials recommend avoiding the Numbi gate and monitoring local conditions. The update also highlights frequent protests, potential unrest and increasing xenophobic violence, advising visitors to keep to main roads and follow local authorities’ guidance.

Experts highlight cherries and tart cherry juice as effective natural sources of melatonin that may improve sleep quality, supported by research showing benefits for deeper rest. Additional foods such as raw honey, bananas, turkey, brown rice, fish, yoghurt and almonds are recommended for their roles in relaxation, hormone balance and muscle calming. Five foods linked to poor sleep—ice cream, chocolate, crisps, cheese and spicy dishes—are advised against due to their effects on blood sugar, alertness, dehydration and digestion.

A veterinary expert warns that persistent bad breath in dogs is often a sign of dental disease caused by plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to infection, pain, and tooth loss. Regular tooth brushing is recommended as the most effective prevention method. Owners are urged to seek veterinary care if the smell becomes unusually strong or is accompanied by symptoms such as bleeding gums, difficulty eating, or drooling. Additional guidance from PDSA notes that many dogs show no symptoms, making regular checks essential, and lists common signs of dental problems for pet owners to monitor.