Month: July 2025

BBC show Pebble Mill at One was an iconic magazine programme that ran throughout the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s – and here’s what happened to the original faces of the daytime series

They were the familiar faces that lit up Britain’s afternoons – the hosts, producers and personalities behind Pebble Mill at One, the BBC’s beloved daytime magazine programme that ran from 1972 to 1986. Whether they were interviewing celebrities, dispensing gardening advice or covering human interest stories from the famous foyer of the Birmingham studio, the Pebble Mill team became a fixture of the nation’s lunchtime telly.

But what happened to the show’s stars when the cameras stopped rolling?

From telly legends who went on to headline primetime shows, to behind-the-scenes figures who subtly influenced British broadcasting, many continued to leave their mark across radio, film and theatre. Others quietly stepped out of the spotlight – while some faced scandals that shook their public persona.

Here, we reminisce about the highs, lows and unexpected twists in the lives of Pebble Mill’s most recognisable faces. From gardening guru Marian Foster and broadcasting legend Alan Titchmarsh to the late Donny MacLeod and troubled DJ Dave Lee Travis, here’s what unfolded for the faces who once dominated daytime TV.

Dave Lee Travis

Dave Lee Travis was best known as the host of The Golden Oldie Picture Show and a DJ on BBC Radio 1. However, his career was later marred by legal issues.

In 2014, he was found guilty of indecently assaulting a woman working on The Mrs Merton Show in 1995 and was handed a three-month suspended sentence.

Though acquitted of several other accusations, the conviction resulted in the presenter’s episodes of Top of the Pops being no longer repeated by the BBC. Travis expressed being “mortified” and “really disappointed” by the verdict.

Despite the scandal, the now 80-year-old made a comeback to broadcasting. Throughout the years, Travis has presented programmes on various UK radio stations, including periods at Classic Gold, BBC Three Counties Radio, and United DJs Radio.

In 2025, he hosts a Sunday morning programme on Heritage Chart Radio.

Currently residing in Buckinghamshire with his Swedish wife Marianne, whom he wed in 1971, Travis enjoys photography and vintage automobiles.

Jock Gallagher

Gallagher began his BBC career in 1966 as a news producer and swiftly climbed the ladder, ultimately leading the Pebble Mill at One.

His influence extended beyond the programme’s triumph to nurturing celebrated BBC radio productions including The Archers, alongside programmes such as From the Grassroots and Offshore Britons.

Following decades of broadcasting service, Gallagher stepped down from the BBC in 2014.

He died in May 2025 aged 87 at Worcester Hospital. Former colleagues and admirers paid tribute, with one remembering: “I remember having a conversation with Jock in the late 1980s when I was trying to become a researcher, and fancied working on Radio 4 series.”

Donny MacLeod

Donny was a beloved figure on television, known for his warmth, professionalism, and innovative approach, becoming a staple in homes as the leading presenter of his show and shaping daytime TV for countless viewers.

He was one of the original faces of Pebble Mill at One, hosting the show from its beginnings in 1972 until his sudden death in 1984.

His career was studded with standout moments, including major BBC specials like MacLeod’s Soviet Union and MacLeod’s America, and memorable interviews with prominent figures such as Edward Heath, Les Dawson, Terry Wogan, Dame Edna Everage, and Morecambe and Wise.

Touching tributes have continued to honour Donny’s legacy, with one colleague fondly remembering: “He was kind and ever prepared to lend this novice a helping hand… For 11 years Donny was Pebble Mill at One.”

Passing away at the young age of 52 from a heart attack, Donny is still deeply missed as a trailblazer in British daytime broadcasting.

David Attwood

Starting his career as an assistant floor manager, David Attwood climbed the ladder, contributing to series like Out of Town Boys (1978), Keep Smiling (1979), and the BAFTA-winning Boys from the Black Stuff (1982).

After completing the BBC Directors course in 1984, he quickly made a name for himself as a director.

Attwood’s portfolio includes directing All Together Now, Airbase, and the intense thriller Killing Time.

He later pursued a freelance career, directing critically acclaimed projects such as Wild West, Fidel, and Stuart: A Life Backwards, which starred Tom Hardy.

David sadly died on 21 March 2024 after battling illness.

Remembered by peers as a talented and considerate director, David left an indelible mark on British television drama over three decades.

Marian Foster

A multifaceted broadcaster, Marian Foster was celebrated for her engaging on-screen personality and a deep-rooted passion for horticulture, which became her signature.

She broke new ground as one of the original presenters on Top Gear and went on to host gardening segments for BBC Look North after her time at Pebble Mill.

Foster boasts an extensive career in radio, having presented shows on BBC Radio 2, Woman’s Hour on Radio 4, and currently hosts Garden Mania every Sunday on BBC Radio Newcastle and Radio Tees.

A familiar face at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, she has imparted her horticultural wisdom to audiences for more than three decades.

Her diverse work includes documenting the impact of Live Aid in Ethiopia and even sharing the stage with The Who for a rendition of Tommy.

In recent times, she has continued her role as a judge for Northumbria in Bloom, been featured by Radio Times, and remains an endearing presence in the North East.

Alan Titchmarsh

Alan Titchmarsh rose to fame as the beloved presenter of Ground Force and later captivated viewers on ITV’s Love Your Garden, affirming his status as one of the nation’s favourite gardeners.

His natural charm extended beyond the garden, leading him to host various programmes including The Alan Titchmarsh Show, Popstar to Operastar, and Secrets of the National Trust.

In 2024, he made waves when North Korean TV censored his jeans, prompting Titchmarsh to quip that it gave him “a bit of street cred”.

The 76 year old father of two is a prolific author, having penned over 70 books, including best-selling novels, gardening guides, and memoirs.

He currently presents a Saturday afternoon programme on Classic FM and continues to write regularly for the press. Now in his mid-70s, he divides his time between his farmhouse in Hampshire and his residence on the Isle of Wight.

Titchmarsh was awarded an MBE in the 2000 New Year Honours for his contributions to horticulture and broadcasting, and was later promoted to CBE in the 2025 New Year Honours for his services to horticulture and charity.

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Japan: Takuro Matsunaga; Kippei Ishida, Dylan Riley, Shogo Nakano, Malo Tuitama; Seungsin Lee, Shinobu Fujiwara; Yota Kamimori, Mamoru Harada, Shuhei Takeuchi, Epineri Uluiviti, Warner Deans, Michael Leitch (capt), Jack Cornelsen, Amato Fakatava.

Replacements: Hayate Era, Sena Kimura, Keijiro Tamefusa, Waisake Raratubua, Ben Gunter, Shuntaro Kitamura, Ichigo Nakakusu, Halatoa Vailea.

Wales: Blair Murray; Tom Rogers, Johnny Williams, Ben Thomas, Josh Adams; Sam Costelow, Kieran Hardy; Nicky Smith, Dewi Lake (capt), Keiron Assiratti, Ben Carter, Teddy Williams, Alex Mann, Josh Macleod, Taulupe Faletau.

Replacements: Liam Belcher, Gareth Thomas, Archie Griffin, James Ratti, Aaron Wainwright, Tommy Reffell, Rhodri Williams, Joe Roberts.

Referee: Damian Schneider (Argentina)

Assistant referees: Karl Dickson (England) & Luke Pearce (England)

Television match official (TMO): Ian Tempest (England).

Anyone using weight loss injections, either through the NHS or privately, has been issued a major warning when it comes to travelling abroad – failing to comply could lead to expensive medical bills

A stark warning has been issued to those taking weight loss injections who are planning to travel abroad.

Failing to follow one vital rule could potentialy put travellers in serious danger and force them to pay a huge amount in medical bills.

There has been a surge in the demand for weight loss injections, which were once aimed at people with diabetes. People across the UK have been going private to purchasing the weekly injections, which slow digestion by mimicking a hormone called glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), in turn regulating hunger and feelings of fullness.

Some popular GLP-1 drugs are branded as Wegovy or Ozempic – they use the same drug, Semaglutide, but are sold at different doses. After Semaglutide came Mounjaro, which, in addition to mimicking GLP-1, also targeted a hormone called GIP to boost this effect on appetite suppression.

READ MORE: Alert issued as vaccine for Brit travellers for lethal infection ‘out of stock in UK’

Last week, it was announced that GPs in England will be allowed to prescribe Mounjaro to severely obese people for the first time. Mounjaro is the brand name for the drug Tirzepatide, which is known as the ‘King Kong’ of weight loss jabs.

With a spike in people using these injections, anyone using the drug while travelling abroad must declare it, according to travel insurance experts. This goes to anyone who uses them, including those who buy them privately and those who may receive them on the NHS.

Failing to declare the use of the drug could see them breach their travel insurance agreement, which could lead to the policy being completely cancelled and being left to pay out for expensive medical bills if anything were to happen while on holiday.

In an important warning, Niraj Mamtora, director at Forum Insurance, told MailOnline: “If you’re using these drugs, you must declare both the medication and the condition it’s prescribed for. Failure to do so is not a minor oversight, it’s a serious breach of your travel insurance contract.

“If you need medical help overseas and haven’t fully declared the medication you’re taking, your claim can be refused and your policy cancelled. The financial consequences can be severe.”

Mamtora added that many holidaymakers don’t realise they’re not covered on their insurance until they need to make a claim, but by then, it’s too late.

Retail expert at Which? Reena Sewraz advised to always read the policy thoroughly when getting travel insurance to check what is covered, and if unsure, speak to them directly. Sewraz also pointed out that it’s good to shop around to get the best policy.

Some users of the weight loss drugs have also taken to online forums to warn people of the added cost when declaring. One user wrote on Reddit: “This morning, I spent several hours looking at annual WW travel insurance quotes to include the US. I spoke to several companies to ask if I need to declare Mounjaro now that I have a healthy BMI and no longer obese and the answer is yes.

“Select weight management and answer the questions that drop down. It added £80 to the policy! Insurance companies are not skipping a beat and it could be due to the increase number of people presenting at A&E with complications or side effects from weight loss medications, even though I haven’t had any side effects in 13 months and could even be off the meds by the time we travel in May but they want to know the last 2 years medical history otherwise it would invalidate the policy.

“NOT ONE said I didn’t need to add it. lol, I have never added obesity to my policy even though I have been obese for the last 30 years until now and I’m the healthiest I’ve been in years!”

Another commented on the thread: “I took out my annual travel insurance with Admiral. Rang and asked about Mounjaro as I was on it. Had to declare I was obese, even though I’m not. This added an extra 70p.

“No judgement from the customer service rep, she was really intrigued in it for herself. She did say they had a memo down about the medication that week and it must be declared now.”

Another noted their own experience: “I spoke to my travel insurers today and explained (you have to tell them every time you go to see your GP!) that my wife was taking Mounjaro and she had gone to the GPs because she had chronic constipation.

“The GP confirmed it was a common side effect of the injection so the insurers said because it was not prescribed to her that if she became ill while on holiday due to any side effects from Mounjaro she would not be covered. As my wife willingly takes it that’s fair enough.”

July 4 (UPI) — Russia has become the first country to formally recognize the Taliban government in Afghanistan.

“We believe that the official recognition of the Government of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan will give an impetus to the development of productive bilateral cooperation between our countries in various areas,” the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a media release accompanied by a photo of Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko meeting Afghan ambassador Gul Hassan Hassan in Moscow this week.

“We see considerable prospects for interaction in trade and the economy with a focus on projects in energy, transport, agriculture, and infrastructure. We will continue to assist Kabul in strengthening regional security and fighting terrorist threats and drug crime.”

Afghanistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also confirmed the recognition on X, with photos.

“During this meeting, the Russian Ambassador officially conveyed the Russian government’s decision to recognize the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan by the Russian Federation,” the ministry said in the post.

“The Ambassador highlighted the importance of this decision.”

The meeting between the two dignitaries took place at the new Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan embassy in Moscow.

Last October, Russia formally ended its designation of the Taliban as a terrorist organization but did not at the time officially recognize the Islamic regime.

Moscow first added the Taliban to its list of designated terrorist groups in 2003 while the regime supported separatist groups in the Caucasus region governed by Russia.

After being chased from power following the U.S. military occupation of Afghanistan in 2001, the Taliban returned to governance in 2021 when President Joe Biden ordered the withdrawal of American troops on the ground.

The Taliban quickly regained its hold on the country and began rounding up dissidents and in some cases executing them.

Kabul, a city of over six million people, could become the first modern city to run out of water in the next five years, a new report has warned.

Groundwater levels in the Afghan capital have dropped drastically due to over-extraction and the effects of climate change, according to a report published by nonprofit Mercy Corps.

So, is Kabul’s water crisis at a tipping point and do Afghan authorities have the resources and expertise to address the issue?

The depth of the crisis

Kabul’s aquifer levels have plummeted 25-30 metres (82 – 98 feet) in the past decade, with extraction of water exceeding natural recharge by a staggering 44 million cubic metres (1,553cu feet) a year, the report, published in April this year, noted.

If the current trend continues, Kabul’s aquifers will become dry by 2030, posing an existential threat to the Afghan capital, according to the report. This could cause the displacement of some three million Afghan residents, it said.

The report said UNICEF projected that nearly half of Kabul’s underground bore wells, the primary source of drinking water for residents, are already dry.

It also highlights widespread water contamination: Up to 80 percent of groundwater is believed to be unsafe, with high levels of sewage, arsenic and salinity.

Conflict, climate change and government failures

Experts point to a combination of factors behind the crisis: climate change, governance failures and increasing pressures on existing resources as the city’s population has expanded from less than one million in 2001 to roughly six million people today.

Two decades of US-led military intervention in Afghanistan also played a role in the crisis, as it forced more people to move to Kabul while governance in the rest of the country suffered.

“The prediction is based on the growing gap between groundwater recharge and annual water extraction. These trends have been consistently observed over recent years, making the forecast credible,” said Assem Mayar, water resource management expert and former lecturer at Kabul Polytechnic University.

“It reflects a worst-case scenario that could materialise by 2030 if no effective interventions are made,” he added.

Najibullah Sadid, senior researcher and a member of the Afghanistan Water and Environment Professionals Network, said it was impossible to put a timeline on when the capital city would run dry. But he conceded that Kabul’s water problems are grave.

“Nobody can claim when the last well will run dry, but what we know is that as the groundwater levels further drop, the capacity of deep aquifers become less – imagine the groundwater as a bowl with depleting water,” he said.

“We know the end is near,” he said.

A vast portion of the Afghan capital relies on underground borewells, and as water levels drop, people dig deeper or in different locations looking for sources of water.

According to an August 2024 report by the National Statistics Directorate, there are approximately 310,000 drilled wells across the country. According to the Mercy Corps report, it is estimated that there are also nearly 120,000 unregulated bore wells across Kabul.

A 2023 UN report found that nearly 49 percent of borewells in Kabul are dry, while others are functioning at only 60 percent efficiency.

The water crisis, Mayar said, exposes the divide between the city’s rich and poor. “Wealthier residents can afford to drill deeper boreholes, further limiting access for the poorest,” he said. “The crisis affects the poorest first.”

The signs of this divide are evident in longer lines outside public water taps or private water takers, says Abdulhadi Achakzai, director at the Environmental Protection Trainings and Development Organization (EPTDO), a Kabul-based climate protection NGO.

Poorer residents, often children, are forced to continually search for sources of water.

“Every evening, even late at night, when I am returning home from work, I see young children with small cans in their hands looking for water … they look hopeless, navigating life collecting water for their homes rather than studying or learning,” he said.

Additionally, Sadid said, Kabul’s already depleted water resources were being exploited by the “over 500 beverage and mineral water companies” operating in the capital city,” all of which are using Kabul’s groundwater”. Alokozay, a popular Afghan soft drinks company, alone extracts nearly one billion litres (256 million gallons) of water over a year — 2.5 million litres (660,000 gallons) a day — according to Sadid’s calculations.

Al Jazeera sent Alokozay questions about its water extraction on June 21, but has yet to receive a response.

Kabul, Sadid said, also had more than 400 hectares (9,884 acres) of green houses to grow vegetables, which suck up 4 billion litres (1.05 billion gallons) of water every year, according to his calculations. “The list [of entities using Kabul water] is long,” he said.

‘Repeated droughts, early snowmelt and reduced snowfall’

The water shortage is further compounded by climate change. Recent years have seen a significant reduction in precipitation across the country.

“The three rivers — Kabul river, Paghman river and Logar river—that replenish Kabul’s groundwater rely heavily on snow and glacier meltwater from the Hindu Kush mountains,” the Mercy Corps report noted. “However, between October 2023 to January 2024, Afghanistan only received only 45 to 60 percent of the average precipitation during the peak winter season compared to previous years.”

Mayar, the former lecturer at Kabul Polytechnic University, said that while it was difficult to quantify exactly how much of the crisis was caused by climate change, extreme weather events had only added to Kabul’s woes.

“Climate-related events such as repeated droughts, early snowmelts, and reduced snowfall have clearly diminished groundwater recharge opportunities,” he said.

Additionally, increased air temperature has led to greater evaporation, raising agricultural water consumption, said Sadid from the Afghanistan Water and Environment Professionals Network.

While several provinces have experienced water scarcity, particularly within agrarian communities, Kabul remains the worst affected due to its growing population.

Decades of conflict

Sadid argued Kabul’s crisis runs deeper than the impact of climate change, compounded by years of war, weak governance, and sanctions on the aid-dependent country.

Much of the funds channelled into the country were diverted to security for the first two decades of the century. Since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, funding has been used to tackle an escalating humanitarian crisis. Western sanctions have also significantly stymied development projects that could have helped Kabul better manage the current water crisis.

As a result, authorities have struggled with the maintenance of pipelines, canals and dams — including basic tasks like de-sedimentation.

“The crisis is already beyond the capacity of the current de facto authorities,” Mayar said, referring to the Taliban. “In well-managed cities, such impacts are mitigated through robust water governance and infrastructure. Kabul lacks such capacity, and the current authorities are unable to address the problem without external support,” he added.

As a result, environmental resilience projects have taken a backseat.

“Several planned initiatives, including projects for artificial groundwater recharge, were suspended following the Taliban takeover,” Mayar pointed out. “Sanctions continue to restrict organisations and donors from funding and implementing essential water-related projects in Afghanistan,” he said.

Sadid pointed out one example: An Awater supply project -funded by the German Development bank KfW, along with European agencies – could have supplied 44 billion litres (11 billion gallons) of water annually to parts of Kabul from Logar aquifers.

“But currently this project has been suspended,” he said, even though two-thirds of the initiative was already completed when the government of former President Ashraf Ghani collapsed in 2021.

Similarly, India and the Ghani government had signed an agreement in 2021 for the construction of the Shah-toot dam on the Kabul River. Once completed, the dam could supply water to large parts of Kabul, Sadid said, “but its fate is uncertain now.”

What can be done to address the water crisis?

Experts recommend the development of the city’s water infrastructure as the starting point to address the crisis.

“Artificial groundwater recharge and the development of basic water infrastructure around the city are urgently needed. Once these foundations are in place, a citywide water supply network can gradually be developed,” Mayar recommended.

Achakzai agreed that building infrastructure and its maintenance were key elements of any fix.

“Aside from introducing new pipelines to the city from nearby rivers, such as in Panjshir, there needs to be an effort to recharge underground aquifers with constructions of check dams and water reservoirs,” he said, adding that these structures will also facilitate rainwater harvesting and groundwater replenishment.

“[The] Afghan government needs to renew ageing water pipes and systems. Modernising infrastructure will improve efficiency and reduce water loss,” he added.

Yet all of that is made harder by Afghanistan’s global isolation and the sanctions regime it is under, Achakzai said.

“Sanctions restrict Afghanistan’s access to essential resources, technology, and funding needed for water infrastructure development and maintenance,” he said. This, in turn, reduces agricultural productivity, and increases hunger and economic hardship, forcing communities to migrate, he warned.

Project Hail Mary is one of the most talked about upcoming blockbusters for next year, but there’s another gripping science fiction thriller you should check out first

Science fiction fans can stream this critically acclaimed blockbuster right now ahead of the new Ryan Gosling-led thriller, Project Hail Mary.

The upcoming space epic will be hitting cinemas next March and a recent trailer has teased a high-octane thrill ride beyond the solar system.

Starring Gosling as school science teacher Ryland Grace, he’s plunged headfirst into a dangerous outer space mission to protect the Earth from catastrophe – but can he save his own life in the process?

Helmed by the genius directors behind 21 Jump Street and Into the Spider-Verse, Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, this jaw-dropping adaptation of Andy Weir’s bestselling novel is guaranteed to be a must-watch cinematic experience.

Sci-fi readers will already be well-acquainted with Weir as the author of the equally gripping novel The Martian, which was adapted into a major film directed by Ridley Scott and starring Matt Damon back in 2015.

10 years later, this nail-biting space survival thriller remains one of the most beloved sci-fi films of the century so far – and fans can stream it right now.

Whether you’ve already experienced this riveting space adventure or it’s somehow passed you by, make sure you stream The Martian on Disney+ at some point before March to get yourself well-prepared for Project Hail Mary.

One five-star Google review calls it: “An Absolute Masterpiece of Sci-Fi Cinema.”

They went on: “Adapted from Andy Weir’s equally captivating novel, this film takes you on an exhilarating journey to the red planet, Mars.

“From the very first scene to the closing credits, The Martian is a thrilling and suspenseful rollercoaster of human ingenuity, resilience, and survival.

“Matt Damon’s portrayal of Mark Watney, an astronaut stranded on Mars, is brilliant. His charismatic and witty performance keeps you engaged throughout the film.”

Someone else raved: “What makes The Martian so rewatchable is its tone. It’s intense when it needs to be, but never loses that touch of optimism and wit that makes it so enjoyable.

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“The soundtrack fits perfectly, the pacing keeps you engaged, and the visuals of Mars are stunning without ever feeling overwhelming.

“It’s a film that makes space feel both terrifying and oddly comforting, a rare mix. Whether you’re into science fiction, survival stories, or just well-made cinema, The Martian is the kind of film you’ll gladly watch more than once.”

The accolades continued over on Letterboxd, where yet another five-star review says: “An effortlessly engrossing and excellently rendered science fiction epic of survival, Ridley Scott’s Martian immediately ranks as one of the director’s most satisfying works.

“A love letter to the power of science, problem solving, and human will, the film provides a smart and soaring experience that rivets as much as it satisfies.

“Scott and company tell a story that is buoyant, nail-biting, and life affirming.”

This modern masterpiece isn’t leaving Disney+ any time soon, so there’s plenty of time and absolutely no excuse not to stream one of Damon’s best blockbusters before the torch is passed to Gosling next year.

The Martian is available to stream on Disney+.

Here are the key events on day 1,227 of Russia’s war on Ukraine.

Here is how things stand on Saturday, July 5 :

Fighting

• Russian air defences have downed dozens of Ukrainian drones in widely dispersed parts of the country, including two near the country’s second-largest city, Saint Petersburg, according to officials.
• All external power lines supplying electricity to the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant in Ukraine were down for several hours before being restored, the UN nuclear watchdog said.
• Ukrainian authorities blamed Russian shelling for the power cut, adding that technicians had to take action to restore it.
• Dutch and German intelligence agencies say that Russia is increasing its use of prohibited chemical weapons in Ukraine, including the World War I-era poison gas chloropicrin. Moscow denies this.

Weapons

• United States President Donald Trump said he discussed sending Patriot interceptor missiles to Ukraine in calls with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
• A German government spokesman said the country was exploring the possibility of purchasing more Patriot air defence systems from the US for Ukraine.

Politics and diplomacy

• Trump said that he discussed sanctions with Russian President Vladimir Putin in a Thursday call, who is worried about them and understands they might be forthcoming.
• The US president repeated that he was “very unhappy” with his Russian counterpart, adding: “He wants to go all the way, just keep killing people – it is no good.”
• Zelenskyy says he agreed with Trump, to work to strengthen Ukraine’s air defences, as concerns mounted in Kyiv over US military aid deliveries. The two leaders had a “very important and fruitful conversation” by phone on Friday, Zelenskyy said.
• German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius will travel to Washington later this month for talks with his US counterpart about air defence systems, as well as production capacities, the ministry said.

Butlin’s Bognor Regis, a holiday resort in West Sussex, is one of the most famous holiday parks in the UK and worldwide. Here’s what happened when Parul Sharma went to Butlin’s without kids.

As a UK resident, I was recently informed that a trip to Butlin’s is somewhat of a British tradition. Being relatively new to the UK, I had no clue what Butlin’s was. So naturally, I decided to spend a weekend at the nearest one post-haste.

For some background – I relocated from India to the UK in June last year and holiday parks were not a common concept back home. In fact, it would be quite a task to locate one, particularly on the same scale and reputation.

So off I went to Butlin’s Bognor Regis for a ‘quintessentially British’ holiday break. To set the record straight, Butlin’s isn’t a holiday park.

It’s a holiday resort brimming with all the bells and whistles to keep oneself amused within its (vast) boundary walls. Despite being a mere stone’s throw away from the beach, that’s not the unique selling point of Butlin’s, reports the Liverpool Echo.

The resort chain prides itself on offering enough activities within its grounds that guests don’t feel compelled to seek excitement at the beach.

Stepping into Butlin’s with my partner during the May Bank Holiday weekend, two things became immediately apparent. Firstly, my partner and I were possibly the only couple without children for miles around.

Secondly, it was shaping up to be a lively weekend.

The accommodation

Butlin’s Bognor Regis boasts three hotels within its grounds – the Shoreline, Ocean, and Wave Hotels – along with the Comfort range of rooms and apartments.

I had the pleasure of staying at the Wave Hotel, conveniently located near all the action and quite frankly, it was delightful. Upon entering the room, we were welcomed by a neon blue glow (as suggested by the name), yellow interiors, and an adorable junior room for children, complete with bunk beds and a quirky porthole on the door.

As a 30-year-old, I was thrilled at the prospect of a lie-in on those bunk beds, each equipped with their own mini-TVs. I could only imagine the excitement a child would feel having that space all to themselves.

Entertainment

Butlin’s iconic white tents are a world unto themselves. They house an arcade, a bowling alley, pool tables, a couple of bars, restaurants, and several stages for entertainment shows – it’s hard to envision anyone getting bored within these tented walls.

I must admit, I was completely taken in by the arcade games, enjoying myself as much as the throngs of delighted children around me. Upon closer observation, I realised I wasn’t the only adult partaking in the fun.

Watching parents in my vicinity revert back to their childhood selves was a joy to behold. After a spirited game of bowling and a few rounds of pool, I found myself reliving the bliss of my 11-year-old self’s childhood paradise.

For families with children, there was a plethora of live shows to enjoy, including The Masked Singer hosted by Mark Rhodes (known for Crackerjack and CBBC’s Junior Bake Off), featuring masked celebrity participants.

Other attractions included Electric Wonderland, Iconic, Snow White and her Magnificent Friends, Animals and Mythical Beasts, and even a chance to meet Gladiators stars Cyclone and Nitro.

These events were always bustling with attendees, and given the vibrant energy they exuded, it’s easy to see why.

The PLAYXPERIENCE

A new addition to Butlin’s Bognor Regis’ already brimming holiday resort is the PLAYXPERIENCE. Having opened its doors in October 2024, the PLAYXPERIENCE was certainly a standout feature of my inaugural Butlin’s weekend.

Spread across two floors and nearly 50,000 square feet, it’sndeniably a sanctuary for gamers and modern tech enthusiasts.

With a VR Cade boasting cutting-edge VR games, laser tag, techputt (mini-golf), digi darts, escape rooms, glow pong, shuffleboard, a batting cage, and neo games – this gamer’s paradise has something for everyone.

Featuring a bar and cafe on-site, I can safely say that me and my passion fruit daiquiri had a fantastic time while partaking in some neon mini golf. Another memorable moment was playing laser tag with playful kids and their equally spirited parents.

It appears that a dose of high-octane, ruthless competition is just the ticket to kick-start the day. As we divided into four teams, it became evident once more that the grown-ups were having as much fun as the youngsters.

That seemed to be the charm of Butlin’s.

Food and drink

The all-inclusive drinks package at Butlin’s seemed like a no-brainer. With an impressive array of cocktails, spirits, beers, ciders, wines, mocktails, Costa coffee, and soft drinks available – it’s almost worth donning a vibrant neon-orange wristband for three days.

The fact that most of the beverages are quite tasty and do the trick adds to the appeal. And with conveniently located bars and eateries scattered across the resort, we never had to wait too long for a drink or snack.

There was a wealth of choices to suit any budget, whether we fancied breakfast or a buffet dinner.

We opted for the premium dining package which covered our breakfast and dinner each day. Breakfast was served from 8am to 10:30am daily, and while the selection was broad and catered to both children and adults, I found the actual taste and quality of the food to be average.

But one can’t have it all, I suppose.

We were taken aback when we arrived at 10am on the first day – it seemed everyone was an early riser, and we certainly felt out of place, with people giving us double-takes!

The following day we managed to get there by 9.45am, but it still appeared that everyone was up bright and early for breakfast – not ideal for a late riser like me who prefers to squeeze in as much sleep as possible.

Fairground and Splash Waterworld

A charming little fairground was the icing on the cake of my Butlin’s weekend. From go-karts and adventure golf to mini-rides and a trampoline, the pre-booked All-Action Pass was a hit.

My inner Lewis Hamilton emerged during an exhilarating go-kart race (in which I triumphed – and no, it doesn’t matter that most of my competitors were children).

Although I didn’t take a dip, the sight of joyful families wandering around with damp hair and broad grins was enough to convince me it would’ve been a delightful experience (provided it wasn’t raining and excessively windy).

So, how did my inaugural Butlin’s trip fare in terms of holidays? Three days packed with fun, games, activities, and children. Lots and lots of children.

Perhaps my next visit will be when I have a little one of my own.

Book the holiday

Butlin’s is offering a three-night Showtime Weekend break, which includes accommodation in a two-bedroom Ocean Hotel room in Bognor Regis, starting from £269 on 11 July 2025. The price is based on two adults sharing and encompasses all live shows and activities, unrestricted access to the pool, unlimited fairground rides, and entry to PLAYXPERIENCE.

Dining packages begin at £24.95 per adult, per day, £14.95 per junior (aged 6-14), per day, and £6.80 per child (aged 2-5). For more information, visit www.butlins.com..

Joseph Paintsil had two goals, Matheus Nascimento also scored a goal and the Galaxy beat the Vancouver Whitecaps 3-0 on Friday night to snap a three-game winless streak.

The Galaxy (2-13-6), the defending MLS Cup champion, won for the first time since it beat Real Salt Lake 2-0 on May 31 to snap a 16-game winless streak to open the season. The Galaxy went into the game with 13 points, fewest in all of MLS.

The Whitecaps (11-4-5) have lost three of their last four. Vancouver is second in the Western Conference with 38 points, behind San Diego (39).

Edwin Cerrillo flicked a shot from 30 yards outs that was deflected by goalkeeper Yohei Takaoka and Nascimento put away the rebound with a first-touch finish to open the scoring in the second minute.

Paintsil made it 2-0 in the 60th. Gabriel Pec played an long arcing ball to the top of the penalty box, where Marco Reus tapped a first-touch pass to a wide-open Paintsil, who calmly flicked a shot inside the back post from the left side of the area.

Paintsil converted from the penalty spot in the 77th minute for his first career multi-goal game. The 27-year-old forward has three goals and one assist this season after he finished with 10 goals and 10 assists last season, his first in MLS.

Takaoka had five saves for Vancouver. Jayden Nelson was shown a yellow card in the 55th minute and another in stoppage time as the Whitecaps played a man down for the final few minutes.

Novak Micovic had a save for LA. The Galaxy had 55% possession and outshot Vancouver 12-6, 8-1 on target.

The Whitecaps beat the Galaxy 2-1 at home on March 2.

July 4 (UPI) — Dozens of people were injured by two accidental explosions at a Rome gas station at 8 a.m. local time on Friday.

A tanker truck struck a pipe while at the gas station, which caused a gas leak that led to an explosive chain reaction, the BBC reported.

A relatively small blast triggered a larger blast several minutes later, which caused extensive damage in Rome’s Prenestino neighborhood.

At least 45 people, including 21 first responders, were injured as the explosion shook nearby buildings and shattered windows while creating a large fireball and black smoke.

At least five have been hospitalized, including two men who are being treated for life-threatening injuries.

A neighboring sports center and several other buildings also were badly damaged by the gas station explosions and fire.

Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri inspected the devastation and told the media emergency teams prevented a “much more serious tragedy” by evacuating those inside nearby buildings after the initial explosion occurred.

Pope Leo XIV offered prayers for those affected by the tragedy, the Vatican News reported.

“I pray for the people involved in the explosion at a gas station this morning in the Prenestino Labicano district in the heart of my diocese,” Pope Leo said.

“I continue to follow with concern the developments of this tragic incident.”

During a three-year stay at Wolves, Jota made 131 appearances for the club, scoring 44 goals, including consecutive hat-tricks in the 2019-20 Europa League victories over Besiktas and Espanyol.

In September 2020, he joined Premier League champions Liverpool in a £41m deal, with Wolves boss Nuno saying Jota is leaving “knowing that it will never be forgotten, especially by our fans, all the memorable moments that Diogo provided”.

“We were gutted we were losing him because he was that good,” said Coady.

“But at the same time, you gave him a big hug and you went, you know what mate, you deserve it more than anyone. Go and enjoy yourself. Go and make a name for yourself at one of the biggest clubs because you can certainly do that. And he has done for that a number of years.”

Coady posted a moving tribute to his former team-mate on his social media account after hearing the news, which he said he did while he “cried my eyes out”.

In the post, he describes how he felt grateful hearing his kids say “dad, you played with Jota” when the Liverpool player came up on the television screens – a feeling he reiterated again.

“People look at football and think it’s all about rivalry. But watching him win the Premier League with Liverpool, it filled me with immense pride – to say I played with him and he has gone on to do incredible things,” said Coady.

“He took it by storm, like he took us by storm. Like he then took the Premier league by storm. Like he then took Europa League by storm with Wolves.

“He’s then gone and done it with one of the biggest clubs in the land. A remarkable footballer, but an even better team-mate, which is 10 times more important than being a remarkable footballer for me.”

China is a popular travel destination in Asia and one tourist visited a busy city in the country and shared everything that blew him away during his three-day trip

China, one of the world’s most populous and powerful nations, is a magnet for tourists thanks to its booming economy, vast military, status as a manufacturing powerhouse, and cutting-edge technology. The country’s iconic attractions like Beijing’s Great Wall and Forbidden City are major draws for tourists.

With its deep historical roots, stunning natural scenery, and dynamic culture, not to mention the delectable Chinese cuisine, China continues to draw visitors from all corners of the globe. Riyan Ruparelia, a content creator known as Bearded Travels, took to TikTok to share his travel experiences in Chongqing, one of China’s major central cities. Chongqing is celebrated for its rugged terrain and has earned the nickname ‘Mountain City’, nestled near the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers.

In his TikTok video, Riyan exclaimed: “China is living in the future so here’s everything that blew my mind on my most recent three-day trip to Chongqing.

“Starting off with the hotels, the majority of which have smart rooms where you can control pretty much everything from the click of a button, including this huge projector screen and they literally have smart toilets everywhere.”

He stayed at the ISEYA Panoramic Hotel, where room service is delivered by “an entire robot“, which he was amazed by.

The tourist was amazed by the city’s “insane” engineering feats, noting that Chongqing was “built on a mountain” and has a population of over 30 million people.

Riyan remarked: “You can be in a main square with shops and restaurants all around you and then realise you’re on the 22nd floor and if that’s not enough, the engineers actually built an entire train track into a residential building which then proceeds to wrap around a mountain, and believe it or not the train doesn’t make any noise whatsoever.”

The travel content creator was also impressed by the prevalence of electric cars in China, many of which were unknown brands that offered “super luxurious” features and “absolutely incredible performance”.

Riyan continued: “And if you’re in two minds you can get a bike slash car but what blew my mind most was the skyline at night time. This city lights up and it feels like you’re in some sort of sci-fi movie.

“The drone shows every Saturday are next level so if you want a taste of the future then make sure to pay China a visit because it will really surprise you.”

According to travel experts at China Discovery, tourists flock to Chongqing mainly for the Yangtze River cruise which offers breathtaking views of the majestic Three Gorges Dam.

Besides the inspiring landscape, Chongqing is renowned for its local cuisine, most notably, the spicy hot pot.

The clip on TikTok by Riyan has racked more than up over 80 comments. One user said: “Omg I can’t get my head over this! This is crazy! I do want to visit China!”

Another user was floored by the advancement, saying: “They are so far ahead it’s amazing.”

Charlotte Lynch is a woman of many passions – from football and teaching to acting and singing. But the defender has faced hardship on her way to the spotlight.

She’s one of the breakout stars of CBeebies’ Football Fantastics and nurtures a friendship with an Emmerdale legend, but Charlotte Lynch admits she’s sometimes felt “excluded” during her journey to the limelight.

England Lionesses Jill Scott, Chloe Kelly, Alessia Russo, Beth Mead and Ollie Watkins are all suiting up for the new BBC series Football Fantastics .

Behind the big names is former Millwall and Leyton Orient player Charlotte Lynch – a talent who’s been quietly going from strength to strength.

Charlotte uses her voice to make football feel accessible to everyone, and shares joyful messages filled with hope on Instagram. “I couldn’t find a team growing up so I felt excluded,” she says. “When my brother played for a boys’ team, my mum asked the coach if I could join.

“Eventually, I played for the boys but I was the only girl. You get side-eyed and whispers. But, if it’s something you’re passionate about, you really have to push through.”

Luckily, things have changed. “I want people to know they are welcome,” she says. “You don’t have to play at an elite level but you can get involved. I’m not better than anyone. I’m a footballer and you can be one, too, if you want to!”

Her advice? “Take a risk on the things you’re passionate about – you never know where it could take you.” Now, she’s bagged her first major role on the small screen, and it feels like everything is falling into place.

READ MORE: FatFace’s ‘cool’ summer dress that ‘doesn’t crease’ and will ‘pack well for holidays’

The new children’s comedy show kicks off the BBC’s Summer of Sport and the Women’s Euros. Set in Ripon, North Yorkshire, the show follows a group of lovable children who meet every weekend for their local football group, where friendships are made and epic adventures unfold.

With cameos from household names, catchy songs and big laughs, it was a no-brainer for Charlotte. “I received the email from the casting team and instantly felt a connection,” Charlotte says. “I really wanted this job. It’s so wholesome, which I love. Everyone can watch it.”

On the pitch, she’s a versatile defender – and off it, a qualified teacher with a sharp mind for sports science and biomechanics. “I’ve been coaching since I graduated from university,” she says. Charlotte has even founded her own girls’ football teams in schools, so when the audition came around, she gave it everything.

“I wore all my football gear, I had my equipment, I had cones, and I just put everything into this audition to give me the best chance of getting the job,” she recalls. “This felt like a perfect fit.”

In Football Fantastics , Charlotte plays coach Georgie, a footie fanatic. “She’s reliable, honest. Nothing is ever too much or a problem. She has all the patience in the world and a genuine love for children,” Charlotte says. But there’s more to the character than warmth and encouragement.

She adds, “I show a few skills. There’s some comedy, a little bit of sarcasm and life lessons.” Filming in Ripon was mostly smooth sailing, although living in a hotel room for two months and facing early mornings wasn’t her cup of tea.

“I’m not a morning person,” she confesses. “But it didn’t feel like it was hard because I was so in love with what I was doing. We were all well taken care of and there were footballs on set, so I felt very comfortable.”

She also bonded with some well-known faces, including Eva Fontaine and Emmerdale star Samantha Giles. “I was able to ask them how they prepared. There was a family vibe to the show, it felt very warm and welcoming,” says Charlotte.

“Samantha was my next door neighbour in the trailers. We’d meet at the snack table and chat. She was so easy to speak to and I absorbed everything.”

But don’t be fooled – acting isn’t new to Charlotte. Her love for performing was nurtured by her mum, who was also her school head teacher.

“She was passionate about bringing out your talents and abilities,” Charlotte says. She took part in school plays and later appeared in Remi R.M. Moses’ short film Saving Art (2023) as a nurse.

“I did commercials and body doubling, so I was quite familiar with what a set looks like, but acting on TV is a longer-term thing, and these amazing actors helped me.”

She has other talents, too, as Charlotte is also a singer, performing in her church choir, at her brother’s wedding – and even releasing tracks on Spotify.

“I took a break after moving on to football but I’m going to go back to the studio,” she says. However, football remains top of her list. “I’m going to play until I’m 100,” she says. “You can play at any age – you just need a team that suits your needs.”

Like this story? For more of the latest showbiz news and gossip, follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Threads.

There has been speculation over the succession plan for the Tibetan Buddhist spiritual leader.

The Dalai Lama has said that he hopes to live for another 40 years until he is 130 years old, on the eve of his 90th birthday, days after he sought to assuage rife speculation over his succession by saying he would reincarnate upon his death.

The Tibetan Buddhist spiritual leader was speaking on Saturday during a ceremony organised by his followers to offer prayers for his long life, ahead of his 90th birthday on Sunday.

Leading thousands in the prayers as the sound of chanting, drums, horns rang out, he said: “So far, I have done my best and with the continued blessings of Avalokiteshvara (a Buddhist spiritual protector), I hope to live another 30 or 40 years, continuing to serve sentient beings and the Buddha Dharma”, he said, referring to the teachings of the Buddha.

The Dalai Lama previously told the Reuters news agency in December he might live to 110.

The Dalai Lama has confirmed that he will have a successor chosen in accordance with “past tradition”, ending years of speculation about the centuries-old office.

In a video message on Wednesday, he said the Gaden Phodrang Foundation, which he established to preserve the institution, will have the power to recognise his future reincarnation.

Tibetan Buddhist leaders will search for his successor, he added, stressing that “no one else has any such authority to interfere in this matter”.

The 14th Dalai Lama said he had received many messages in recent years from Buddhists calling for the office’s continuation.

“In accordance with all these requests, I am affirming that the institution of the Dalai Lama will continue,” he added.

He made the comments on Wednesday during a three-day religious conference in Dharamshala, the northern Indian town where he has been based since 1959, when he fled Tibet for India after a failed uprising against China.

Speaking to Al Jazeera, the Tibetan writer and activist Tenzin Tsundue described the Dalai Lama’s announcement on Wednesday as a “punch in the face” for China, which governs the Tibet Autonomous Region and which has claimed that it has the power to appoint his successor.

The Nobel Peace Prize-winning Dalai Lama, whom China brands a “separatist”, has previously warned Beijing not “to meddle in the system of reincarnation of lamas, let alone that of the Dalai Lama”.

In response to his comments on Wednesday, China said the Dalai Lama’s succession must be approved by the central government in Beijing and that it would be carried out “by drawing lots from a golden urn”, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning told reporters.

That urn is held by China, and the Dalai Lama has already warned that, when used dishonestly, it lacks “any spiritual quality”.

In a major win for Brits travelling abroad this year, Ryanair has confirmed it’s changing its infamous cabin bag allowance following a huge EU ruling – here’s everything you need to know

Ryanair is making some sizeable adjustments to its free cabin bag allowance, in a huge victory for Brits.

The ultra-low-cost airline, known for its sarcastic online presence, has frequently garnered global media attention for issuing out hefty fines for passengers flouting its strict luggage rules. Currently, passengers unwilling to pay for additional luggage must make sure their free ‘personal bag’ does not exceed 40 X 25 X 20cm – a volume of just 20 litres.

It is now common practice for card-machine-waving staff to ask customers to prove their bag fits the tiny dimensions during the boarding process. Those found attempting to bring a larger bag on board can be stung with a £75 charge. However, following a new European Union standard, all of this is about to change.

READ MORE: Ryanair blasts 5 countries including UK over major ‘scandal’ causing delays

Last month (June 24), members of the European Parliament (MEPs) voted in favour of introducing common dimensions for hand luggage. They agreed that all passengers should have a right to carry on board one personal item, such as a handbag, backpack or laptop with maximum dimensions of 40x30x15 cm without an additional fee.

Ryanair has been even more generous than the ruling dictates, confirming it will allow passengers to bring a personal bag up to 40 X 30 X 20cm in the coming weeks. However, its allowance is still stingier than rival easyJet – which permits passengers to bring a free under seat bag of 45 x 36 x 20cm (including wheels and handles).

British Airways (BA) technically has a smaller under-seat bag limit – with dimensions restricted to the EU minimum (40 x 30 x 15cm). However, passengers are also allowed to bring a larger cabin bag on board free of charge, as long as it is not heavier than 23kg and can fit in the overhead lockers.

“Today’s vote marks an important step toward fairer and more transparent travel,” vice-chair of the EU Committee on Transport and Tourism (TRAN) Matteo Ricci said in a press statement. “[It introduces] concrete measures such as the clear definition of free hand luggage … a fundamental right to avoid unjustified extra costs.”

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Last month the transport committee of the European parliament voted to give passengers the right to an extra piece of free hand luggage weighing up to 7kg. According to the BBC, the proposed rule would still have to be passed by the wider European parliament before becoming law.

Despite the ruling, Brits are still being advised to confirm the baggage rules with their selected airline directly this summer, to avoid any confusion. Showing up with a bag that exceeds the company’s allowance may result in a steep fine – or your luggage being taken away and stowed underneath the plane.

Do you have a story to share? Email us at [email protected] for a chance to be featured.

If you’re a fan of taking your holidays onboard luxury cruiseliners to travel the world and experience far flung destinations, you might want to pay more attention to the type of jewellery you choose to take with you

Cruises are an increasingly popular way to enjoy a trip away from home to visit multiple destinations during one holiday. You only have to unpack once and get to enjoy all the onboard amenities, activities and fine dining right on your cabin doorstep every day.

You could be an experienced cruise traveller or be considering the option for your next vacation but it seems there’s a whole lot more that goes on behind the scenes than you might expect.

When it comes to choosing what accessories you take with you, it may, or may not – depending on your preference – pay to be wary of packing a certain type of jewellery.

According to one cruise worker who sailed the seas for 10 years, if you wear a black ring or jewellery with a pineapple theme, you could be approached by people with a preference for a particular type of lifestyle.

Lucy Southerton, 28, from Birmingham has plenty of knowledge about what goes on in the darker corners of the huge ships and has shared her experiences on her YouTube channel Cruising as Crew.

In one video from 2023, she claims that “swinging is a popular pastime” onboard the floating hotels – and suggests it could be because cruises offer an “enclosed population of people”.

Couples who enjoy swapping sexual partners, use certain techniques to identify other potential companions onboard, according to the former cruise worker.

One of them is by displaying the upside down pineapple symbol in some way. “Some people put the upside down pineapple on their cabin door,” Lucy says. “Some people wear an upside down pineapple like a hat or brooch.”

But there’s also a more “inconspicuous” way to alert others to your desires than dangling a spiky fruit from your person – and that’s by wearing a black ring on your right hand, apparently.

Although as Lucy points out, this more subtle sign can have its issues. “Imagine if you went up to someone and you’re like [in a suggestive voice], ‘Hey, I can see that black ring on your right hand,’ and they’re like, ‘Yeah it’s just a black ring on my right hand’. You can never really be sure whether that’s just something they like to wear, or if it’s a signal,” she warns.

According to Lucy, the third signpost that someone is a swinger open to offers is a male and female sign with “a third gender sign in there”. She also shares an “embarrassing story” about how she came to realise the significance of the pineapple. Revealing that a long time ago she used to work in a ship’s spa, she said a couple came in for a couple’s massage.

When she went back to the treatment room after they had got dressed to tell them about aftercare such as drinking plenty of water, she noticed they were both wearing silver upside down pineapple necklaces. “They weren’t like this bright yellow upside down. They’ve very subtle, very, very nice,” she recalls. “And I was like, ‘Oh I love your necklaces. I think it’s so cute that you’re both wearing matching necklaces. That’s really sweet, but why the pineapple? Like what does that represent to you in your relationship?’.”

The couple who she had built up a rapport with after treating them a few times, burst out laughing. “They were like, ‘Look, we’re swingers and this is how people can identify us as swingers,’.” Intrigued, she went on to have a conversation about it with them where they told her the terminology used within the community.

Apparently, a unicorn is a woman who wants to swing on her own and swing with another couple. “They’re basically like mythical creatures,” she says the couple informed her. “They don’t exist and if you find one then you’ve hit the jackpot.”

A rhino is a single man willing to swing, while a mermaid is a married woman who wants to swing with a couple on her own. The word ‘play’ means sex, so you may say you don’t play on the first date. Rainbow means they don’t discriminate on gender and will swing with “everyone and anyone”. While ‘DDF’ is drug and disease free.

Comments on Lucy’s video, which has had over a million views, were suitably amusing. “Thanks for the info on the up side down pineapple. I will be placing a sticker of one on my brother and sister in laws cabin door on our upcoming cruise. Boy will they be surprised:),” joked one.

Another shared: “I’ll never forget the amount of attention I got in the buffet on my first ever cruise – I bought shorts that had loads of little pineapples in all different directions – I innocently thought they were just ‘nice and summery’ – how wrong I was… Ha!”

A third wrote: “Jee whizz, I will have to make sure my pineapple earrings are pointing up,” while a fourth revealed: “My partner bought me a nice black ring for Valentine’s Day. Damn…I’ll have to have a chat with her.”

Food poisoning and a runny tummy can ruin any trip, but by sticking to bottled water and being careful with fruit and salad, holidaymakers can keep travellers’ trots at bay

There’s a lot to think about when it comes to summer holidays – whether you’re jetting off to the Mediterranean, road-tripping across the UK, or packing for a long-haul getaway. But one of the most important things is sometimes the first to be overlooked – your health. As a pharmacist with more than 30 years’ experience, I’ve helped countless holidaymakers caught off-guard by sunburn, food poisoning or an unexpected allergic reaction.

One in eight holidaymakers get ill abroad, according to statistics. And nearly half of us fear a medical emergency abroad. But the good news is that with a few smart, proactive steps, you can avoid most common travel ailments and keep your summer trip on track. So whether you suffer from travel sickness, struggle with jet lag, or just want to avoid the classic sunburn-blister-sore-feet trifecta, here are 10 essential summer health hacks to help you feel your best, wherever you’re headed.

How to build the ultimate travel first aid kit

You don’t need to carry half a pharmacy with you, just pack the essentials. Make sure you have plasters and antiseptic wipes, as well as antihistamines (for bites, allergies or hay fever), and rehydration salts for heat or stomach bugs. Pop a pack of paracetamol or ibuprofen in your kit, as well as anti-diarrhoeal medication like loperamide.

Don’t forget travel sickness tablets, and hydrocortisone cream for rashes or bites. If you have prescribed medications, keep them in their original boxes with your name clearly labelled. Keeping these in a bag in your hand luggage ensures you’re covered if your main suitcase goes missing.

Avoid holiday tummy troubles

Food poisoning and traveller’s diarrhoea can ruin any trip. In many hot countries, bacteria multiply more quickly, especially in street food or undercooked meats. Stick to bottled or filtered water (including when brushing teeth) and avoid ice cubes unless you know the source. Peel fruits yourself and be cautious with salads washed in local water. Pack antidiarrhoeal tablets and rehydration salts. If symptoms last more than 48 hours, or there’s blood in the stool, seek medical help.

Beat travel sickness before it starts

Motion sickness happens when your inner ear and eyes send conflicting signals to your brain – often triggered in cars, boats or planes. Prevention is far more effective than waiting until you’re nauseous. Antihistamines such as cinnarizine or hyoscine patches are proven remedies and available over the counter. For natural alternatives, ginger capsules or acupressure wristbands may help some people. I also recommend facing forwards in a moving vehicle, avoiding reading or scrolling, and crack a window where possible.

Stay one step ahead of jet lag

There’s nothing worse than losing the first day or so of a long-awaited holiday due to jet lag. While you can’t avoid it altogether, there are some things you can do to minimise the effects. If possible, try to adjust your sleep schedule a few days before you fly. Drink plenty of water on the flight, and avoid alcohol. If it’s an overnight flight, avoid eating a heavy meal. Get some sunlight as soon as you arrive to help reset your internal body clock. Melatonin supplements may be useful for short-term sleep regulation but speak to a pharmacist first.

Stay hydrated – especially on your flight

Cabin air is dry, and dehydration not only leaves you feeling groggy but can worsen jet lag, headaches, and increase your risk of DVT (deep vein thrombosis). Drink a glass of water every hour during your flight and avoid caffeine or alcohol, both of which dehydrate you. Consider oral rehydration salts if you’re flying long haul or suffer from conditions that make you more prone to dehydration. Pack a refillable water bottle (you can fill it after security) and use hydrating facial mists or moisturiser to combat dry skin.

Prevent sunburn

It’s tempting to start a holiday by spending hours in the sun lying on the beach or by the pool. But a trip away can easily be ruined by sunburn, which isn’t just painful but can increase your risk of skin cancer and can lead to sunstroke. Always use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, reapplying every two hours and immediately after swimming. Don’t forget areas like ears, feet, scalp, and the back of the neck. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, UV-protective sunglasses, and stay in the shade between 11am and 3pm when the sun is strongest.

Protect against bites and stings

Mosquitoes, midges and other biting insects can cause allergic reactions or transmit illness depending on where you’re travelling. Use an insect repellent containing DEET, especially around sunrise and sunset. Wear loose, light-coloured clothing, and sleep under a mosquito net if needed. If you’re bitten make sure to clean the area, apply hydrocortisone cream, and take oral antihistamines to reduce swelling and itching. If the area becomes red, hot or painful – or you develop a fever – seek medical advice.

Plan ahead for pre-existing conditions

If you have a long-term condition, speak to your GP or pharmacist at least 2-4 weeks before you travel. Get any vaccinations you need and ensure you’re fit to fly, particularly for long-haul trips. Take a basic health summary or EHIC/GHIC card (for EU countries) and always declare conditions on travel insurance. If you’re flying with mobility issues, allergies or need medical equipment like oxygen or needles, inform your airline in advance. And remember – pharmacies abroad don’t always stock the same brands or doses. Being prepared gives you peace of mind.

Mind your medication in the heat

Many people don’t realise that extreme heat can reduce the effectiveness of some medications, particularly for blood pressure, thyroid conditions or diabetes. Tablets like nitroglycerin and insulin are especially sensitive and should be kept below 25°C, away from direct sunlight or car glove boxes.

For those on temperature-sensitive meds, pack a cool bag or insulated pouch, especially on day trips. Additionally, store your medication in carry-on luggage rather than checked bags, as luggage holds can get extremely hot. A travel-sized thermometer in your kit can help you keep an eye on conditions if you’re somewhere very hot.

Deborah Grayson is a pharmacist with 30 years’ experience, and a nutritional therapist. She runs Digestion With Confidence: digestionwithconfidence.co.uk

FILL YOUR FIRST AID KIT

Take steps now to make sure you have everything you need for every kind of holiday health challenge

Kwells 300mcg travel sickness tablets, £9.49, Amazon

O.R.S hydration tablets, £6.49 (orshydration.com )

Navigate Carnaby travel bloom washbag, £23, Dunelm

Sea-Band Nausea relief Ginger Capsules, £6.69 for 20 (Superdrug)

Skincalm Bite & Sting Relief 1% Cream Hydrocortisone – 10g, £4.65, Amazon

Bioré Aqua Rich UV Invisible Face Mist SPF 50, £17.99 (Superdrug) also stocked on Amazon

La Roche Posay UVMune 400 Dermo-paediatrics Invisible Spray SPF50+, £25.50, LookFantastic

Regatta x Orla Kiely water bottle, £38, regatta.com

‘Circus is an art form of the people. I fundamentally believe that.” I’m in Great Yarmouth for a long weekend, standing in the ring at the Hippodrome circus, bristling from that particular crackle of energy you get from an empty stage. Ringmaster Jack Jay, the fourth generation in a family of impresarios, is fresh from his annual scouting trip in search of international acts to tread the boards in Norfolk: “We have artists whose CV reads ‘Macau, Las Vegas, Great Yarmouth’,” he tells me. “That’s the standard we aim to bring in.”

The Hippodrome is a national treasure, one of only two purpose-built circuses left in the country (the other is part of Blackpool Tower, which Jack’s father also managed, briefly, in the 1980s). Founded in 1903 by equestrian George Gilbert, who ran off to join the circus aged 11, it’s an ornate building with art nouveau flourishes. But the real extravaganza is the sinking floor, restored by the Jays in 1979. Using original mechanisms, the ring is transformed into a pool with fountains and synchronised swimmers for the spectacular finale. I’ve seen the show countless times and it never loses its magic.

At least 50 Palestinian families from a Bedouin community in the occupied West Bank have fled their homes, following repeated assaults and harassment from Israeli settlers under the protection of Israeli forces, according to media reports and a local rights group.

Thirty Palestinian families were forcibly displaced on Friday morning from the Arab Mleihat Bedouin community, northwest of Jericho, the Palestinian news agency Wafa reported, while 20 others were displaced on Thursday.

Before the forced displacement, the community was home to 85 families, numbering about 500 people.

A Palestinian rights group, the Al-Baidar Organization for the Defense of Bedouin Rights, said the families were forced to leave after years trying to defend themselves “without any support”. Attacks by Israeli forces and Israelis from illegal settlements have surged across the occupied West Bank since Israel’s war on Gaza began on October 7, 2023.

Alia Mleihat told Wafa that her family was forced to flee to the Aqbat Jabr refugee camp, south of Jericho, after armed settlers threatened her and other families at gunpoint.

Separately, Mahmoud Mleihat, a 50-year-old father of seven from the community, told the Reuters news agency that they could not take it any more, so they decided to leave.

“The settlers are armed and attack us, and the [Israeli] military protects them. We can’t do anything to stop them,” he said.

Hassan Mleihat, director of the Al-Baidar Organization, said families in the community began dismantling their tents, following sustained provocation and attacks by Israeli settlers and the army.

Footage posted on social media and verified by Al Jazeera’s Sanad agency showed trucks loaded with possessions driving away from the area at night.

Hassan told Wafa that the attacks also threatened to erase the community, and “open the way for illegal colonial expansion”.

‘We want to protect our children’

Israeli human rights group B’Tselem has documented repeated acts of violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in Mu’arrajat, near Jericho, where the Mleihat tribe lives.

In 2024, settlers armed with clubs stormed a Palestinian school, while in 2023, armed settlers blocked the path of vehicles carrying Palestinians, with some firing into the air and others hurling stones at the vehicles.

“We want to protect our children, and we’ve decided to leave,” Mahmoud said, describing it as a great injustice.

He had lived in the community since he was 10, Mahmoud said.

Alia Mleihat told Reuters the Bedouin community, which had lived there for 40 years, would now be scattered across different parts of the Jordan Valley, including nearby Jericho.

“People are demolishing their own homes with their own hands, leaving this village they’ve lived in for decades, the place where their dreams were built,” she said, describing the forced displacement of 30 families as a “new Nakba”.

The Nakba, meaning “catastrophe” in Arabic, refers to the mass displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians from their homes during 1948 at the birth of the state of Israel.

Israel’s military has not yet commented on the settler harassment faced by the Bedouin families or about the families leaving their community.

Asked about violence in the occupied West Bank, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar told reporters on Monday that any acts of violence by civilians were unacceptable and that individuals should not take the law into their own hands.

Activists say Israeli settlement expansion has accelerated in recent years, displacing Palestinians, who have remained on their land under military occupation since Israel captured the occupied West Bank in the 1967 war.

Most countries consider Israeli settlements illegal and a violation of the Geneva Conventions, which ban settling civilians on occupied land.