Zahna Eklund

The UK is expected to experience a deep partial solar eclipse on August 12, 2026, with around 90% of the Sun obscured in some areas, while Greenland, Iceland and northern Spain will see totality. Because looking directly at the Sun can cause serious eye damage, the article explains how to make and use a cardboard-box pinhole projector and recommends certified eclipse glasses bearing the ISO 12312-2 or ISO 12312-2:2015 mark. The Royal Observatory will also stream the event live from London.

Warm weather leads to increased fly and maggot activity in household bins, but sprinkling cayenne pepper and cinnamon inside bin bases can deter flies by overwhelming their senses and preventing egg-laying. The compounds in both spices repel insects, offering a simple natural method for reducing infestations during summer. Additional recommendations include maintaining a clean home, covering food, and using sealed food waste containers or biodegradable waste bags.

A woman identified as Haz MacVay heard singing from her neighbour’s garden and discovered that pop star Gareth Gates was performing there, captured in a TikTok video that quickly drew amused reactions. Gates appeared to be entertaining guests at a private celebration featuring decorations and refreshments, leaving social media users surprised and amused by the unexpected neighbourhood performance.