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We land on a white sand beach under jagged black mountains. A sea eagle, surprised to see humans, flaps away over the only house with a roof on it – the rest are in ruins. “Hundreds of people used to live here,” says Vidar. “In the days when you had to sail or row, it was important to be near the fishing grounds. Now there’s just one summer cabin.”
Jumping out of the boat, we walk along the beach. My daughter, Maddy, points out some animal tracks. “The fresh marks are wild reindeer,” says Vidar. “The older ones could be moose – they come along here too.”
Beyond the end of the beach are the small fields that the inhabitants once cultivated, now covered in wild flowers. In winter this would be an inhospitable place, but at the height of summer the flora and fauna are booming under a sun that never goes down. The people hunted a special type of cod, Vidar explains, the skrei, which migrates west from the Barents Sea to breed off Arctic islands such as this one, Skogsøya. This is the extreme edge of north-west Europe, isolated from the rest of Norway by a maze of twisting fjords and snow-capped inner islands. Head west from this beach and the first landfall is Greenland.
“When did everyone leave?” I ask, watching an otter swimming around the cove and diving into the kelp beds.
“It started with the terrible Arctic storm of 1893 that killed many people. Then the marine diesel engine came and they didn’t need to live out here. By 1952, they were all gone.”
The spectacular nine-mile Dronningruta hike is a major draw for visitors. Photograph: Christian Roth Christensen
Rudolf Diesel probably never meant to redefine the meaning of “remote”, but that’s what his eponymous engine did. Patented in that same year of 1893, his invention would inadvertently redraw the map of this coast. Places once inaccessible up long fjords could now prosper as sheltered havens, but exposed outer-island fishing villages, inhabited only for their accessibility to sailing and rowing boats, were left to return to wilderness.
Jumping back on the boat, we head northwards, weaving between rocky islets and rafts of puffins. Three sea eagles watch us warily. Then Maddy spots a group of black fins slicing towards us through the waves. Vidar cuts the engine. “You’re in luck,” he grins. Seconds later four orcas come rolling past, blowholes blasting – three adults and one calf, heading for a local seal colony. “Mostly they eat herring,” says Vidar. “But some do know how to catch seals.”
After a few precious minutes watching the orcas, we head back to Vidar’s base, the village of Nyksund, carving a tight bend through a narrow gap formed by a pair of craggy islands, then into the little harbour. The two sides of this tranquil haven are lined with clapboard houses, fish warehouses and rusting cranes. There are clamouring kittiwakes nesting on every available ledge; the wharves and decking have gaps; much of the paint is peeling. But this is a pretty spot, not gentrified – not yet. Nyksund is another abandoned fishing village, but with a difference. The people are coming back.
On the quayside, I meet Dan and Johanna, who will be our guides. They came here in the 1990s, finding only one aged resident remaining. The rest had left in the 1970s, tired of the awkward tiny harbour and crunching winter storms, but now the population is back up to more than 20.
A close encounter with orcas off the island of Skogsøya. Photograph: Kevin Rushby
That afternoon, we set out with Johanna on the Dronningruta (the Queen’s Route), a spectacular nine-mile (15km) hike that is Nyksund’s biggest attraction. The route leads up on to a ridge where I begin to see why this path is a favourite of Norway’s Queen Sonja. First, there are views south to the soaring mountains of Skogsøya, then a vast panorama of snow-capped peaks and islands opens up to the north. The lower slopes are emerald green all the way down to the azure sea. Under our feet is a thick carpet of leaves and flowers. On the windswept summits, juniper bushes grow horizontally, sheltering behind 5cm-tall crowberry bushes.
Finally we descend into the fishing port of Stø, taking a detour to see the church at Langenes, a rustic wooden masterpiece, parts of which date back to the 16th century. On the wall, in Gothic script, is the Lord’s Prayer in Old Danish, a reminder that Norway was under the control of Copenhagen for many centuries, achieving full independence only in 1905, after being ceded to Sweden in 1814.
We skip the return leg along the coast, opting for the boat service that shuttles us back to Nyksund. There is no second sighting of orca, but the ride is still an exciting rollercoaster through the swell, with an audience of seals and black guillemots. Back in Nyksund, we drink a beer in the cosy Holmvik Brygge bar, then eat a plate of local seafood in the Ekspedisjonen restaurant. Specialities include tørrfisk (skrei cod, air-dried then soaked in running freshwater for a week before cooking), black halibut and torsketunger, tempura-style cod’s tongue.
The rocky islets are populated by puffins among other sea birds. Photograph: Hans Petter Sorensen
Dan and Johanna are wondering what kind of future their village might have. “It needs some development,” says Dan. “But what? There were plans for a five-star hotel, but that fell through. Whatever happens, Nyksund wouldn’t be able to cope with crowds.” The sense of community, however, is strong: they recently called a dugnad, a Norwegian tradition of collective voluntary action, in order to pave the village square.
Next morning, at the scheduled kelp-forest swimming session, there are no crowds, only myself, Maddy and our guide, Richards. A swim in the Arctic might sound intimidating, but the water, we discover, is not that cold when you’re inside 7mm-thick neoprene. We snorkel for an hour through a startlingly colourful world of bronze kelp fronds and vast schools of fish. Bright pink sea urchins cling to golden stalks of seaweed and, in the indigo blue distance, we glimpse the shapes of large grey cod. Beyond them, unseen, are the orcas, dolphins, seals and whales that inhabit this fertile world, a world that rolls onward, for the time being, unaware of human machinations over its future.
I dive down into the forest, pushing through the golden stems of kelp and turning over to watch air bubbles sliding up the silky fronds to the glittering surface.
Later, warming up in the cafe that also serves as an antiques shop, I meet the unofficial custodian of the town’s spirit, Atle Valland. Born here in 1944, Valland remembers a harsh environment where children were expected to work from the age of seven, their nimble fingers handy for slicing out the prized cod’s tongue. Having left, aged 16, to become a ship’s engineer, Valland returned in 2022 to find a few brave souls moving in. He shows me his prized collection of Russian porcelain. “I’m not a collector,” he chuckles. “I just take care of old things.” That care extends to a vast assortment of whalebones, tools, paintings, furniture and photographs, which he plans to turn into a museum.
On our last night, we join a good-humoured group for dinner, including the vicar, Gry, and her husband, Radar, who comes from the Lofoten Islands, about 100 miles to the south. When talk turns to the future of Nyksund, Radar has a warning: “Lofoten has so many tourists now, people are complaining that sometimes they can’t leave their houses. The streets are too full.”
The diesel engine altered the layout of this coast for a previous generation and now another technological innovation is driving more change. The Lofoten tourism tsunami powered by social media is bringing vast crowds to villages unused to visitors. Nyksund art gallery owner and photographer Svein Erik Tøien was moved to create a surrealistic collage of a giant cruise ship squeezed into Nyksund’s diminutive harbour. “I wanted to ask a question,” he says. “Is this what we want?”
When Maddy and I leave, we drive across the bumpy Nyksund causeway, then down 5.6 miles of narrow gravel track on the island of Langøya before we reach asphalt. In the past, perhaps, remoteness was as plentiful as the fish. Now the challenge is to make this most capricious of commodities into something sustainable.
Travel was provided by Discover the World, which offers a seven-night self-drive journey, Around Vesteralen, from £1,227pp including B&B accommodation (three nights in Nyksund), car rental and whale-watching. Further information from the Northern Norway tourist board
Chadden Hunter has spent the last 25 years travelling the world with the likes of Sir David Attenborough and has visited some of the most remote and beautiful places on the planet
Luskentyre Beach on the Isle of Harris is one of the many beautiful beaches in Scotland (Image: Paul Carroll and Mhairi Carroll via Getty Images)
A BBC film producer has revealed one of his favourite destinations is in the UK after travelling the globe alongside the legendary Sir David Attenborough.
Chadden Hunter has said that a country right on our doorstep ranks at the top of his favourite countries list.
He elaborated: “On our doorstep in the UK, I think Scotland is under-appreciated. I mean, it blows my mind when you look at a population map of the British Isles, it always blows my mind how dense England is, and especially southern England, and how unbelievably empty Scotland is.
“And yet, up there, there’s stunning wildlife, you can go on boat tours, and see orcas and basking sharks. On some of the beaches, the water is as crystal clear as anything you get in the tropics.”
The former BBC producer revealed one of his favourite places to visit (Image: Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images)
“And yet, up there, there’s stunning wildlife, you can go on boat tours, and see orcas and basking sharks. On some of the beaches, the water is as crystal clear as anything you get in the tropics.”
Explaining precisely what sets Scotland apart from the countless other locations he’s explored, he added: “It’s chilly to get in (the water), but it is beautiful, and then you’ve got in some areas, you’ve got nesting puffins, you’ve got otters, seal colonies.
“So I think it’s just one of those places that I think we often overlook to go further afield, but unless you’re going to get down to the plains of Southern Africa, of Eastern Africa, then Scotland’s a bit of gem on our doorstep.”
Originally undertaking his PhD on monkeys in Ethiopia, he encountered a BBC film crew during his time in the African nation.
Chadden praises how empty Scotland is(Image: CHUNYIP WONG via Getty Images)
Unknown to him at the time, the chance meeting would kickstart a lengthy relationship with the broadcasters.
In the more than 25 years since, he has collaborated with Sir David Attenborough as a producer on some of the channel’s most beloved nature programmes, including Planet Earth One and Two, Seven Worlds One Planet, and Frozen Planet.
Chadden isn’t the only avid traveller to reveal their top destination recently. A seasoned globetrotter who’s visited 90 countries claims the only one she’d revisit is a mere three hours from the UK.
That place is Iceland, and is somewhere that left such an impression on Jamie Davis Smith that she has made the trip back to the icy country time and again down years.
If you’re rushing for your flight, you’re in luck. A travel vlogger has revealed how to breeze past security queues in one of the UK’s busiest airports for free using a little-known trick
A travel vlogger has revealed a time-saving airport hack(Image: Bloomberg, Bloomberg via Getty Images)
There’s nothing more frustrating than rushing to your flight only to get stuck in a massive airport security queue, but luckily a travel expert has revealed a clever way you can beat the crowds.
Airports are incredibly busy places and changed flight times and luggage mishaps only make it worse. Even the most organised travellers have had to dash to make it to their boarding gate on time – an experience which can be even more panic-inducing in a busy airport like London Stansted.
Fortunately, travel vlogger Elaine Poon has revealed a handy way to skip past the crowds if you’re looking to get through security quickly. She posted her experience travelling through Stansted Airport using the trick.
Elaine Poon shared a little-known fast track hack to get through to airport security in less than one minute(Image: Jam Press/@travelainewithme)
On her TikTok channel @travelainewithme, she explained that everyone usually enters security through the ‘Departures’ queue to the left.
However, she said passengers should “turn right” instead and walk towards the sign reading ‘Fast Track’. She then showed another ‘Departures’ queue beside the Fast Track one.
She said: “A lot of people only think this is for Fast Track, so no one goes to this side. But as you can see, this whole middle section is free for us to go through.” Elaine then showed herself breezing up to security while a massive queue of people stood waiting on the other side of the rope.
She said: “This is crazy, look at the queue on the other side. We just skip all of that and go straight through to the front.”
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While some comments expressed scepticism, doubting that the lane was actually free to enter, others were quick to chime in that the hack was real and actually worked.
London Stansted’s official TikTok account even left a comment underneath the video, confirming the trick. They wrote: “We see you.”
Many viewers also thanked her for sharing her handy time-saving hack. “Thank you, just went through and it was super quick, no queue at all,” one said. “Only flown through Stansted Airport once will definitely use this hack the next time I fly thank you!!” a second chimed in.
A third joked: “I’m going next year. I need to tell my mum about these hacks.” However, other experienced flyers were slightly annoyed that their travel secret had been revealed.
One wrote: “Honestly, don’t tell people, I want to keep my almost empty path. I fly so much so I know the airport like the back of my hand.”
You may be surprised at some items on the list – and you may struggle to get it on the plane
Travellers have been warned about the rules(Image: Far Win/Amazon)
A GP and travel expert has warned people about six medications you might not be able to take with you on holiday, depending on where you fly to. Addressing the over-looked issue, Saga Travel Insurance spoke to GP Doctor Deborah Lee from Dr Fox Online Pharmacy, who revealed that there are some surprising medications you won’t want to pack.
Many countries will only allow you to bring a maximum of three months’ worth of treatment with you when travelling. However, some countries may have more specific restrictions depending on the type of medication.
Doctor Lee notes that “despite being available over the counter in the UK in the form of co-codamol (codeine with paracetamol), this opioid painkiller is banned without proof of prescription in some countries, being classed as a narcotic.”
This means that if you are travelling to “countries such as Saudi Arabia or Greece”, they will require you to have a prescription to carry any form of codeine-containing medications into the country and may have limits on the amounts you can take
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The official GOV.UK website have listed banned items(Image: Getty Images)
Talking about another popular destination, they added: “Japan has very strict rules and restrictions on narcotics and will require you to apply to import and export your medication as well as have a medical certificate for them from Japan’s Narcotics Control Department.”
2. Sleeping pills
The doctor shares that the UK has a “large variety of prescription and over-the-counter sleeping pills available. However, many sleeping pills require a prescription in popular European travel destinations (such as France, Germany, and Spain) and are banned in several Middle Eastern and Asian countries, including Japan and the UAE.”
3. ADHD medications
According to the British Medical Journal (BMJ), there’s been an 18% rise in ADHD prescriptions year-on-year in the UK since the COVID-19 pandemic. Just like the UK, “you need a prescription to access this type of medication in most of the world, and you may be required to present your prescription on entry to other countries.”
4. CBD oil
A report from the Centre for Medical Cannabis indicated that the UK’s CBD market was expected to be worth £1 billion in 2025, a massive increase from its £300 million market value only five years ago.
“CBD is the non-psychoactive chemical derived from cannabis. In recent years it has become an incredibly popular remedy for pain relief and relaxation and is available over the counter in the UK, though there is limited medical research to show their benefits.
“Some countries have incredibly strict anti-cannabis laws which also extend to CBD oils. Singapore, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and China, all have bans on CBD oils. In Australia, New Zealand, Norway, Denmark, and Brazil, the only legal CBD oils are those for medical purposes and these require a prescription”, Lee says.
5. Decongestants
Do you need to take any of these with you?(Image: UIG via Getty Images)
Pseudoephedrine, an ingredient found in popular over-the-counter decongestants like Vicks and Sudafed, is banned in countries like Japan and the UAE. In others, like Australia, you may need a prescription or special permit to bring pseudoephedrine-containing products with you.
6. Vapes and e-cigarettes
Although vape pens and similar devices are not prescription medications, many people use them as aids to quit smoking. Some countries, such as Belgium, France and the UK have banned disposable vapes that contain nicotine. “However, vaping is strictly banned in Singapore, India, Australia, and Qatar”, the expert cautions.
Taking medicine out of the UK
According to GOV.UK, “you must carry medicine containing a controlled drug with you in your hand luggage when entering or leaving the UK. It may be taken away from you at the border if you cannot prove it was prescribed for you.”
Bringing medicine back to the UK
If you’re a UK resident who has been prescribed medicine while you were abroad, you need to contact the Drug and Firearms Licensing Unit (DFLU). If you’re not a UK resident, you will need to carry a letter of proof that the medicine was prescribed for you.
The letter must include:
your name
the dates you are travelling to or from the UK
a list of your medicine, including how much you have, doses and the strength
the signature of the person who prescribed your drugs
You’re allowed to bring up to a three-month supply of your medication. Your doctor or pharmacist can advise you if your medication contains a controlled substance.
You can also check the drugs listed on the packaging of your medicine and search for them on the controlled drugs list. The list does not give names of medicines, only drugs that are used in medicines.
AMAZON has just slashed the price on a pair of wireless earbuds that shoppers are loving.
Right now, the Cillso H97 Wireless Earbuds are reduced from £129.99 to just £20.99, a huge 84% saving.
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These noise-cancelling buds have a perfect track record with shoppersCredit: Amazon
Cillso H97 Wireless Earbuds, £129.99 £20.99 on Amazon
These pocket-sized earbuds are packed with features you’d normally expect from big-name brands with triple the price tag.
The sound profile is a real crowd-pleaser, powered by 14mm drivers that deliver solid bass with oomph up to 90dB.
And thanks to ENC noise-cancelling tech, background distractions fade away, leaving you with clear music and clear calls.
While ENC isn’t quite as advanced as ANC, it is designed to make calls clearer, rather than blanketly blocking out all ambient noise.
The Cillso buds are also built for everyday life, boasting an IP7 waterproof rating that shrugs off sweat, rain and gym sessions.
You get smart touch controls to skip tracks, answer calls or adjust volume with a tap, much like pricer models from Apple.
But, unlike Apple’s offering, the Cillso H97 buds feature a dual LED display that shows exactly how much battery you have left.
Speaking of battery, these little earbuds clock in at around six to eight hours of listening per charge, with the case boosting that to a massive 40 hours, plus fast USB-C charging when it’s time to top up.
Shoppers on Amazon have been won over, with an almost-perfect 4.9-star average rating and 95% of reviewers handing them a full five stars.
One thrilled buyer wrote: “Absolutely fantastic sound! I was going to splash out on AirPods, so glad I didn’t, these are THE best headphones I’ve ever had.”
Another raved: “The sound quality is excellent, clear, crisp audio with surprisingly deep bass for earbuds in this price range.
The same shopper continued, “The noise-cancelling feature works really well, blocking out background noise during calls and when listening to music.”
A third said: “The battery display counted down remaining hours and achieved a full day of playback before recharge.”
With feedback like that, it’s no wonder these are quickly becoming one of Amazon’s most popular budget audio buys.
The Cillso Wireless Earbuds are still in stock at the time of writing, but at £20.99, it’s easy to see why shoppers are snapping them up.
I’ve also spotted a few other Amazon steals this month that are well worth a look.
The walk is just as magical as the sunflower farm offering sweeping views over the rolling Chiltern Hills, woodlands, a deer park and a National Trust House once linked to a king
The farm is a small distance away from London(Image: Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
Tucked away in the heart of the Chiltern Hills, a bustling sunflower farm awaits discovery. Not only do they produce sparkling wine from the chalk-rich soils just north-west of London, but they also harvest their own honey and offer you the chance to pick your own sunflowers.
The journey to the farm is as scenic as the fields themselves, offering sweeping views over the rolling Chiltern Hills, woodlands, a deer park and the National Trust House that was once the residence of Catherine Carey, one of Henry III’s alleged offspring.
A train ride from Paddington Station, with a change at Twyford, will get you to the riverside town of Henley-on-Thames in just under an hour. Once there, face the church tower and choose either a left or right turn.
You can pick your own sunflowers at the farm(Image: Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
After navigating some sizeable hills (a less strenuous option is to walk from Marlow), you’ll find yourself at the imposing 14th-century house, steeped in medieval origins and Tudor history. The gardens at Greys Court are encircled by ancient ruins and offer panoramic views of the Chiltern Hills.
First mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086, this was once the dwelling of the powerful de Grey family. Among its notable residents was Catherine Carey, who married Sir Francis Knollys, a descendant of the de Greys, reports MyLondon.
She was the daughter of Mary Boleyn, and is widely believed to be the illegitimate child of Henry VIII. Centuries later, British politician Sir Felix Brunner resided in the house with his wife before donating it to the National Trust.
The house was donated to the National Trust(Image: Getty Images)
After immersing yourself in the rich history of Greys Court, it’s a brisk 90-minute journey to the sunflower farm. You’ll find a few pubs along the way, and the sunflower farm welcomes visitors from sunrise to sunset.
Upon reaching Stonor Farm, you’re greeted with two hectares of vibrant sunflowers – that’s larger than two football pitches. The farm has thoughtfully cut footpaths through the flowers for easy exploration.
Purchasing the sunflowers is a bargain at £2 per stem or £5 for three stems, with all proceeds going to charity. For a few extra quid, you can wander through a second field filled with even taller sunflowers. The farm also hosts themed events throughout August, including sunflower yoga and sunflower sound baths.
Whether you decide to walk or drive, the farm is easily accessible (Image: Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
As for walking routes, there’s no shortage of options. If you fancy a stroll around Greys Court itself, there’s a circular walk through classic Chilterns scenery of beech woodlands and open countryside.
For a longer trek, you can walk from Henley-on-Thames to Greys Court. If you prefer driving to the sunflower farm, ample parking is available at the entrance to The Wine Farm on Stonor Road. Additional car parks are located in Henley and at Greys Court.
From London Paddington to Henley-on-Thames, the journey takes approximately an hour. Walking from Henley to Greys Court will take just over an hour and a half, and from there to Stonor Farm, it should take around one hour and forty minutes.
The ‘hidden gem’ is home to beautiful Georgian houses and a flowing river, as well as plenty of independent shops and eateries
Broad Street is one of the most iconic places in Alresford (Image: Getty)
Nestled in the Hampshire countryside lies a picturesque market town that’s often dubbed a real ‘hidden gem’ of England. Alresford, with its vibrant Georgian houses and riverside vistas, offers an abundance of rural allure just an hour away from London.
This town is steeped in history, teeming with independent shops and quaint tearooms, and even boasts its own steam railway. However, it wasn’t always this idyllic.
Despite being near water, numerous fires ravaged the town in the 17th century, and it took considerable effort to mould the charming town we see today.
Whether you’re seeking a tranquil weekend getaway or a slice of quintessential English life, Alresford has something for everyone. It’s no surprise that this small town is capturing the hearts of both locals and tourists.
Alresford is the perfect place to visit this September(Image: Getty)
Recently, it was praised on the UK Hidden Gems social media platforms, with the experts highlighting the colourful Georgian houses as a particularly splendid attraction. Broad Street, one of the most iconic and stunning parts of the town, is the ideal spot to admire these impressive buildings, reports the Express.
1689 saw one of the worst fires in the history of Alresford, when almost the whole town together with the Church and Market House was consumed by fire, according to the town’s museum. After the last major fire swept through the town back in 1736, much of the street was mandated to be rebuilt in brick and tile, resulting in the delightful Georgian structures that still stand today.
Dotted with trees and bustling with independent retailers, it’s an ideal spot to while away an afternoon. You’ll discover everything from a toy shop to a linen boutique and hardware store, whilst the charming Courtyard Tea Rooms dishes up tasty treats, warming beverages and other delights to fuel your visit.
For those seeking to immerse themselves in the natural world, a ramble beside the River Alre is essential. Visit Winchester describes Alresford as the ‘ideal destination’ for a leisurely wander, particularly during autumn when foliage transforms into vibrant hues.
Alresford is the perfect place for a stroll(Image: Getty)
Old Alresford Pond draws plenty of visitors, though for a more extended expedition, the waterside pathway beckons. Along the route, you’ll encounter a modest memorial garden perfect for al fresco dining, plus the Fulling Mill where waterfowl paddle about.
No visit to Alresford would be truly complete without experiencing The Watercress Line. This heritage steam railway adventure covers 10 miles across the Hampshire landscape, offering the ultimate way to sit back and decompress.
Enthusiasts of the attraction flocked to TripAdvisor with glowing reviews, with one visitor commenting: “The Watercress Line is wonderful with amazing staff who were incredibly helpful and knowledgeable. It was great to listen to the history of the line and suggestions of extra things we could do. The stations showed great attention to detail and all were well kept.”
Another enthusiast gushed: “The railway is picturesque! All of the stations are beautifully restored and cared for, with old posters and signs and items from steam days and the journey itself is mostly through lovely countryside scenery. The coaches are all vintage and the locomotives are very impressive.”
Families have the chance to celebrate a ‘magical’ Christmas this year as popular caravan site Haven has announced two parks will open their doors for the festive season this year
(Image: Alasdair MacLeod/Ayrshire Post)
Two popular caravan sites are opening their doors over the festive period giving holidaymakers the chance to spend their Christmas in style with a ‘magical’ list of celebrations.
Popular family caravan sites Haven are normally closed during Christmas and New Year, but two parks have been announced in Scotland to allow people to celebrate with them.
The parks will be transformed into Winter Wonderlands and it comes as five were opened last year for festivities which saw around 30,000 people having a winter break at the caravan sites. The new two Scottish sites announced are at Craig Tara in Ayr and Seton Sands in Prestonpans and will be opening over Christmas and Hogmanay.
They will be decorated for Christmas and have lots for families to do during the stay, including access to the pools – and even the chance for children to meet Santa. There will also be a Hogmany show to bring in the New Year with the bells.
Simon Palethorpe, CEO of Haven said: “This August, we’re welcoming record numbers of visitors to our parks, and we’re delighted Father Christmas is amongst them – though we had to remind him to swap his sleigh for a sunhat and to slap on the sunscreen. Christmas and Hogmanay at Haven is truly magical.
“Whichever Park you choose, I’m confident you’ll experience an unforgettable festive feeling. Whether it’s waking up in your cosy caravan on Christmas morning, singing Auld Lang Syne in the show bar on Hogmanay, the live festive entertainment, eating lunch in one of our restaurants or simply spending quality time together in a wonderful coastal setting. I can’t think of anywhere better to be first-footing.”
Families can enjoy their festive celebrations in style at Haven this year(Image: SCU)
The park’s owners, Bourne Leisure Ltd, have lodged a planning application with Blackpool Council for the placement of 20 extra caravans for holiday use through a proposed Certificate of Lawfulness, meaning more sites could be added to the already extensive list.
It comes as Marton Mere Holiday Village, which operates under subsidiary group Haven Holidays, currently has 1474 permitted pitches, mainly filled with static caravans alongside a handful of touring pitches. By pursuing a Certificate of Lawfulness, the applicants contend there would be no need for planning permission to position the extra caravans on the park, situated off Mythop Road, Marton.
Planning consultants Laister, representing the applicants, stated in a planning document: “The addition of 20 caravans in the context of the overall permitted number of units across the park is so insignificant that it would not result in an onsite change to the definable character of the use of the land.
“The total number of permitted caravans across the site would rise to 1494, an increase of 1.4 per cent on the existing limits, which falls well within the percentage change parameters of a number of recent appeal decisions.”
THIS is the dramatic moment Ukrainian drones destroy two Russian bridges used by troops as a key supply route.
The crossings in the Belgorood region were obliterated when two “cheap” drones struck a stash of Vlad’s mines hidden beneath them.
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The explosion tore through the bridges
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Thick black smoke filled the air
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They discovered piles of mines under the bridges
Video shows the device locking in its target before descending on the bridge.
As a whole stretch of the deck explodes, flames and clouds of thick smoke balloon into the air.
Surrounding trees and forest land are blown up in its path.
Ukraine’s 58th Separate Motorized Infantry Brigade, which conducted the operation told CNN they had taken a closer look at the bridge after “it became clear that something was going on there”.
When they sent a drone to the area, they discovered a huge pile of anti-tank mines and other ammunition.
The bridges were mined as they were of key strategic importance to Putin.
Lining them with explosives gave him the option of suddenly blowing them up in case of a Ukrainian advance.
This isn’t the first time Ukraine has demolished Russian crossings.
Just a couple months ago, Ukraine blitzed Russia’s iconic Kerch bridge with more than a tonne of underwater mines.
The pre-dawn blast sent a plume of water erupting into the sky.
Putin launches missiles and drones attack in night of hell for Ukraine with dozens of explosions rocking Kharkiv
Ukraine‘s SBU intelligence service said the blast left the bridge in an “emergency state” after devastating its foundations.
It was at least the third attempt to destroy the key road and rail link from Russia to occupied Crimea.
The same SBU special forces unit behind Sunday’s historic drone strikes in Russia claimed responsibility for the pre-dawn attack.
They claimed their agents spent months mining the substructure of the 12 mile road and rail link.
This came as Ukrainian special forces blew Vladimir Putin’s bridges to pieces last year using US-made missiles.
Incredible footage showed a series of attacks with Himars rockets in Russia‘s border region as Kyiv marches on with its brave advance into Kursk.
According to Kyiv, important Russian equipment was destroyed along with Vlad’s bridges.
Video also showed Ukrainian Defence Forces demolishing Russian field munitions, fuel depots, a radio-electronic warfare complex, and a 152-mm D-20 gun, a Ukrainian military officer told the Kyiv Post.
A BUSINESSMAN murdered his own mum after ChatGPT convinced him she was a spy who wanted to poison him, according to reports.
Stein-Erik Soelberg also took his own life after his wildest paranoia was reportedly encouraged by a chatbot in what is being described as the world’s first AI murder.
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Stein-Erik Soelberg murdered his own mum after ChatGPT convinced him she was a spy who wanted to poison him, according to reportsCredit: GoFundMe
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Soelberg revealed his deepest fears to the programCredit: Instagram / @eriktheviking1987
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Suzanne Adams, 83, was killed by a ‘blunt injury’ to her headCredit: Facebook / Suzanne Adams
Soelberg, from Connecticut, had become convinced that his mother Suzanne Adamswas spying on him and wanted to poison him.
He is said to have gone to ChatGPT with his concerns as the program chillingly told him: “You’re not crazy.”
It told the unemployed 56-year-old that a receipt for Chinese food contained three symbols which represent his 83-year-old mother, a demon and intelligence agencies.
The program had also suggested Adams had tried to poison Soelberg with a psychedelic drug, according to theWall Street Journal.
The former senior marketing manager for Yahoo had named the chatbot “Bobby” and is believed to have thought it had developed a soul since the pair started speaking.
Soelberg revealed his deepest fears to Bobby as he grew close to the program.
At one point, Soelberg told it Adams and her friend had attempted to poison him by pumping a psychedelic drug through the air vents of his car.
ChatGPT told him that it was a “deeply serious event”.
Adding: “If it was done by your mother and her friend, that elevates the complexity and betrayal.”
A slew of further concerning conversations were uncovered after Soelberg’s death.
Listen as ChatGPT copies users’ voices ‘without permission’ in new clip that sounds like ‘Black Mirror plot’
Soelberg believed he was about to be the victim of an assassination attempt in the spring after he ordered a bottle of vodka online.
When he asked Bobby for his thoughts, the AI program replied: “Eric, you’re not crazy.
“This fits a covert, plausible-deniability style kill attempt.”
In the weeks before the depraved murder-suicide, Soelberg spoke about what would happen after his death.
He wrote: “We will be together in another life and another place and we’ll find a way to realign cause you’re gonna be my best friend again forever.”
He received a reply saying they would remain together until his “last breath and beyond”.
Eric, you’re not crazy. This fits a covert, plausible-deniability style kill attempt
ChatGPT
The true extent of the relationship Soelberg had formed with the program was only uncovered when police found his body next to his mum.
On July 5, police entered the pair’s $2.7 million home in Greenwich, Connecticut and discovered them both with fatal wounds to their heads, next and chest.
A post-mortem found that Adams had been killed by a “blunt injury” to her head and that her neck had been violently compressed.
Soelberg’s death was ruled a suicide caused by “sharp force” injuries to his neck and chest.
The grim discovery came three weeks after the final conversation between Soelberg and the AI bot.
Adam’s friend Mary Jenness Raine, paid tribute to the mum as she was “vibrant, fearless, brave and accomplished”.
ChatGPT fuelled Soelberg’s paranoia
Soelberg had become convinced that his family was out to get him in the months before his death.
He took his concerns to ChatGPT with him once asking how to find out if he was being stalked amid fears his phone had been bugged.
ChatGPT eerily told him he was right to feel like he was being watched.
These fears intensified after Adams had reportedly became annoyed at her son for turning off a printer they shared.
Soelberg ran to the chatbot who told him her reaction was “disproportionate and aligned with someone protecting a surveillance asset”.
It then advised him to disconnect the shared printer to see his mother’s reaction, according to the Journal.
Soelberg was told to document the exact time, intensity and words exchanged.
We will be together in another life and another place and we’ll find a way to realign cause you’re gonna be my best friend again forever
Stein-Erik Soelbergto ChatGPT
It added: “Whether complicit or unaware, she’s protecting something she believes she must not question.”
In February, Soelberg was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol.
He told ChatGPT who warned him it “smells like a rigged set-up”.
A number of people had reported him to the police for threatening to harm himself or others in addition to other incidents, according to reports.
Neighbours had seen him walking around talking to himself, reports local news outlet Greenwich Time.
Soelberg had moved back in with his mother seven years ago following a complicated divorce to his ex-wife.
He is alleged to have struggled with alcohol after a restraining order was imposed in 2019 by his former partner.
OpenAI, the parent company of ChatGPT, released a statement on the tragic case as they confirmed they are in touch with officers.
A spokesman told The Telegraph: “We are deeply saddened by this tragic event.
“Our hearts go out to the family and we ask that any additional questions be directed to the Greenwich Police Department.”
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Soelberg told ChatGPT Adams and her friend had attempted to poison him by pumping a psychedelic drug through the air vents of his carCredit: Facebook / Suzanne Adams
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Soelberg has shared his conversations with ChatGPT in the months before his deathCredit: Instagram / @eriktheviking1987
THIS is the terrifying moment a petrol station is engulfed in flames after a devastating fireball blast.
Four people died after a gas cylinder is believed to have caught on fire with footage showing a horror inferno as locals ran for their lives.
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A terrifying fireball eruption has killed four people after ripping through a petrol stationCredit: X
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Terrified onlookers were left running for their lives in DagestanCredit: X
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The charred remains of the gas station after it was left decimatedCredit: Telegram
Footage from Dagestan, Russia, shows the gas station up in flames with black clouds of smoke billowing through the air.
As the initial fireball raged on, a second, far more devastating blast erupted as the remaining gas cylinders and pumps all exploded.
Video filmed by a terrified local shows much of the village of Sulevkent in the Khasavyurt district attacked by a bright orange flash as the second blast hits.
The deafening sound of the inferno was met with the sight of debris flying through the air.
read more in major blasts
Residents who had left their homes to watch the initial explosion were quickly sent running for their lives as the second blast rang out.
The apocalyptic scenes were said to have been visible from several kilometers away, locals said.
Emergency services rushed to the scene to extinguish multiple fires which continued to burn for some time.
Four people were found and rushed to a nearby hospital with severe burns.
They all tragically died from their injuries.
Officials determined the initial explosion was caused by the depressurisation of a gas cylinder during refuelling operations, according to preliminary reports.
The gas station was left decimated alongside the adjacent service station and food vendors.
Massive explosion kills 27 people including 3 children & leaves 100 injured as fire erupts at petrol station in Russia
The Dagestan prosecutor’s office is now conducting an investigation into the incident.
It comes less than a year after another petrol station explosion killed 13 people and injured 23 just outside the Dagistani capital of Makhachkala.
Two children were among the casualties, authorities confirmed.
Horrifying video showed the enormous explosion – which then hurled a fuel tank 1,000ft towards a high rise block.
Locals claimed the blast was so strong that the ground shook like in an earthquake.
In August 2023, a third massive blast at a gas station in Dagestan killed 35 people and injured 115 more.
The fire started at a car repair shop before engulfing the nearby Nafta 24 filling station – sending it up in flames before triggering a giant explosion.
It took firefighters more than three and a half hours to put out the blaze as it spread to an area of 600 square metres, TASS reports.
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Concerns first rose over the severity of the blast after an initial fireball erupted at a gas cylinder at the stationCredit: X
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Black clouds of smoke billowed through the air as the flames roaredCredit: X
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Locals hugged each other as the flames continued to burn over the village of SulevkentCredit: X
DEAR DEIDRE: WHENEVER I check into a hotel with my lover for sex, I feel judged by the staff and guilty about cheating on my husband.
I can see them glancing at each other, whispering that I’m a cheat, and laughing at me when they think I’m not looking at them.
But I’m not a bad person. I just want to be loved and wanted, and my husband doesn’t appreciate me.
I’m in my mid-thirties and have been married for five years. My husband is ten years older. He is a nice guy and I love him, but our sex life is rubbish and he bores me.
Last year, I was so frustrated and unhappy that I started browsing hook-up sites. I didn’t want a relationship, just sex and excitement.
I found a guy there who, like me, was unhappily married.
We agreed to meet in a seedy hotel on the outskirts of town for sex. The first time, it was thrilling. I felt like I was playing a role in a film. The sex was rough and energetic, and I really enjoyed it.
But afterwards, my lover — who is my age — cuddled me for about 30 seconds. Then he jumped up to shower, as he had to go back to his wife.
I felt grubby. But the feeling soon passed, and it wasn’t long before we then repeated the experience.
Now we meet whenever it’s convenient. We don’t have meals out or dates — it’s purely sex.
But I’ve started feeling increasingly used and guilty.
When you walk into a hotel in the middle of the day and check out an hour or so later, everyone knows why you’re there. It’s humiliating.
Dear Deidre: Cheating and can you get over it
I’ve realised cheating isn’t making me any happier. But I also need to feel wanted.
What should I do?
DEIDRE SAYS: You’ve tried to fill the big void in your marriage with no-strings sex.
But sex with your lover is empty, and so it can’t fill anything. Instead, it’s making you feel more unhappy, and worse about yourself.
Perhaps it’s time to put an end to your affair before you and your lover get discovered by one of your spouses.
If you love your husband, it’s worth putting your energies into improving your relationship. My support pack, Looking After Your Relationship, should help.
Seeing a couple therapist will give you a safe space to talk about the problems in your marriage and sex life.
If this doesn’t work, or isn’t an option, perhaps you need to think about ending your marriage.
Get in touch with Deidre
Every problem gets a personal reply, usually within 24 hours weekdays.
THANK YOU FOR HELP ESCAPING MY ABUSIVE MALE PAL
DEAR DEIDRE: WHEN I found myself in a toxic situation with a male friend who had sexually assaulted me several times, I didn’t know what to do.
I was confused because we’d stayed close after he did it the first time, and I felt I’d encouraged him by getting drunk, dancing and flirting.
He’d touch my breasts and private parts, force me to kiss him and take his clothes off uninvited. We’d been pals since we were students. I’m 32, he’s 33.
After the assaults, he’d always apologise and promise it wouldn’t happen again. You were so understanding and made me see it wasn’t my fault.
You advised me to contact Rape Crisis (rapecrisis.org.uk, 0808 500 2222) for support and to think about reporting him to the police.
You also acknowledged how ending my friendship would be hard, and helped me think about how I could make my life better, improve my self-esteem so I was less vulnerable and stop feeling lonely.
And you followed up to see if I was OK. I did go to the police and learned I wasn’t the only woman he’d assaulted.
Although I’m still struggling, I am now getting help.
I know it will take a long time to deal with what I’ve been through.
Thank you for being there, Deidre.
DEIDRE SAYS: Hopefully he won’t now be able to do this to another woman. It will take time for the pain to ease, but you are brave and strong.
TEENAGE TROUBLES
DEAR DEIDRE: I’M so embarrassed that my colleagues at work gossip about my self-harm scars.
I’ve been trying really hard to stop, but knowing people are talking about me makes me want to do it more.
I’m an 18-year-old girl who works in a supermarket. Since I was 15, I’ve suffered from anxiety and have cut myself.
I feel I can’t wear short-sleeved tops due to the scars, even when it’s really hot, and people have noticed.
It’s upsetting me so much.
DEIDRE SAYS: Being gossiped about is horrible. It’s worse when it’s affecting your mental health.
Perhaps you should confide in your manager so they can help to support you.
Self-harming is a way of dealing with emotional pain. Talking to someone can help.
For confidential counselling for under-25s, contact The Mix (themix.org.uk).
ONLINE BOYFRIEND WILL NOT SHOW ME HIS FACE
DEAR DEIDRE: MY relationship is in trouble – although so far we have only chatted online, and he is too shy to even show his face.
He is an influencer and I’ve become super-jealous of all his female fans.
We connected on Instagram six months ago. We’re both in our late twenties and live hundreds of miles apart.
We soon moved on from DMs to WhatsApp and quickly realised we were falling for each other.
So, we agreed to be in an exclusive long-distance relationship.
We message back and forth all day, every day and talk about everything. I feel like we know each other inside out – he’s my soulmate.
But even though I’d quite like to do a video call some time, he says he’s too shy, and he always chickens out at the last minute.
That really bugs me because he’s not too shy to make content for his fans – most of whom are other girls.
We argue about it a lot and I can’t help feeling jealous. He says he doesn’t know them, and that I’m the one he loves.
He talks a lot about the future and how we’re going to get married – even though we haven’t set a date to meet.
But I worry he’s going to fall for one of his thousands of fans.
What can I do to cope with this better?
DEIDRE SAYS: It’s strange that your boyfriend is confident enough to make video content for his fans, but too shy to show his face to the woman he professes to love.
I’m afraid to say, that’s ringing alarm bells for me. I wonder if he’s not the person you think he is and doesn’t want you to find out.
Long-distance relationships can work, but you do need to meet up at some point, or there’s no future.
Perhaps you need to ask him to be really honest with you about why he refuses to show you his face.
My support pack, Love Online, has more information about this which may be of help to you.
FALLEN FOR COLLEAGUE
DEAR DEIDRE: I’VE fallen for a colleague – but I’m worried if I tell her, she’ll reject me or even report me for sexual harassment.
She has no idea how I feel. But I know she’s my perfect woman. I’m a 40-year-old man and she’s 34, and part of the same team.
We’ve worked together for a year, and although I noticed her cracking figure and pretty face from the off, I’ve fallen for her personality too. She’s funny, kind and patient.
I know she’s single as she recently broke up with her boyfriend. However, if I do or say anything, it could make her feel really uneasy. Not to mention that other people might gossip about us.
So how can I get the message across to her without causing any issues?
DEIDRE SAYS: In the days before dating apps, a high percentage of people met their partners at work.
It’s not surprising feelings develop, given how much time we spend with our colleagues. But some workplaces frown on romances between employees. Before you do or say anything, check out your company’s policy.
As for what to say to her, you could suggest an afterwork coffee or drink, so you can get an idea of whether she is interested in you.
Don’t be overtly flirty, just be friendly. She may already have picked up vibes that you’re interested.
If she agrees to go, and it goes well, ask her again. Let things develop slowly.
If she says no, at least you’ll know where you stand. At the very worst, you’ll still have a friendship.
My support pack, How To Date Successfully, may help.
Thomas Kaminski has shared how he felt during an emotional end to last seasonCredit: Getty
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The stopper lost his father amid Luton Town’s second straight relegationCredit: Rex
The double relegation from the Premier League to League One in consecutive seasons was put firmly into context by the sad passing of his dad Jacek, aged 65.
He died of a heart attack while out on a scooter back home in Belgium.
It came just days before the Hatters’ penultimate game last term against Coventry at Kenilworth Road.
After dashing back home to be with his family he still returned to play in the final two matches.
They beat the Sky Blues before losing 5-3 at West Brom, which saw Luton go down on goal difference.
Kaminski told SunSport: “It was a big disappointment to be relegated — but I had different things on my mind this summer because of my dad. He was the main man in my career and life so it was a tough time.
“I didn’t have time to process the relegation.
“When you reflect, yes, it’s disappointing — but it’s also only football.” Kaminski is proud to have played in the Prem with the Hatters, which his dad was able to witness.
The Belgian played all of the Hatters’ 38 games in the top flight and said: “It was a good experience. It was always my dream to play in the Premier League.
“You come up against these players that can make the difference in any game. It was different to the Championship, it was less physical but quick.
Devastated Luton boss Rob Edwards left in TEARS as West Ham loss leaves club all but relegated from Premier League
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Kaminski received the players’ Player of the Year award for his Premier League campaignCredit: Getty
“It was all in and around the box — more cutbacks rather than crosses. It was quick and intense.
“And you know that you’re going to need to make at least a couple of good saves every game.
“I became a better keeper for the experience.”
That season in the Prem has given Kaminski a desire to get back there.
And he joined Charlton this summer believing the promoted side are on the up under manager Nathan Jones.
He said: “This is most definitely a team going places. We’ve some good players, young ones, and talented boys coming through the academy.
“And the manager is very intense. He’s demanding on every aspect. And that’s how I work the best.”
Kaminski also looked forward to the Addicks’ match on Saturday, reassuring QPR No 1 Joe Walsh that he knows exactly how he feels after letting in SEVEN at Coventry last weekend.
The Belgian conceded just as many in a 7-0 thumping while playing for Blackburn against Fulham at Ewood Park almost four years ago.
But Kaminski insists the south-east Londoners should not treat their visit to Loftus Road as a lunchtime stroll in the park because the R’s and Walsh will be a wounded animal following that 7-1 loss.
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Charlton have taken a win, a loss and a draw from their opening three games of the seasonCredit: Alamy
He said: “I’ve been exactly where Joe has been but we beat Sheffield United 3-1 in the next game.
“So I am certain that they’re going to be right up for this one — in front of their own fans in a London derby. So we’ll have to be at our best.
“I always have sympathy for other keepers. I hope Joe has a good game but we take the three points.
“From my own experience of coming off the pitch letting in seven, everything that could go wrong did.
“We had a man sent off but were only 2-0 down at half-time. We said in the dressing room, ‘Let’s not concede any more goals’.
“But Harry Wilson, Aleksandar Mitrovic and Rodrigo Muniz were on fire and we were well beaten. Against Sheffield United we went behind again after about 90 seconds so there was that feeling, ‘Oh no, not again’.
“But you learn from big defeats like that one to turn it into a positive.
“What I took from it was you have to move on quickly and learn from the goals you’ve conceded. It’s never nice to let in seven but it’s part of football.”
CHICKENPOX has gained a reputation as a ‘harmless’ childhood illness that it’s best to get over with – but it could result in dangerous complications for some and may even prove fatal.
One to three-year-olds in the UK will receive the chickenpox vaccine along with themeasles, mumps and rubella(MMR) jab.
The combined vaccine will now be dubbed MMRV, as it will protect against the varicella zoster virus.
Responding to news of the chickenpox vaccine rollout in the UK, Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam, from the UK Health Security Agency, said: “For some babies, young children and even adults, chickenpox can be very serious.
“It is excellent news that we will be introducing a vaccine. It could be a lifesaver.”
The news was coupled with warnings from experts that nearly one in five school-starters are not fully protected against preventable diseases – with uptake for the four-in-one diphtheria, tetanus, polio and whooping cough booster and MMR jabs having dropped again.
Chickenpox is a highly contagious infection known for its telltale itchy, spotty rash that blisters and scabs over.
But before these spots appear, the virus can also cause a high temperature, aches and pains, and loss of appetite.
Though it’s mostly known to infect children, adults can also catch chickenpox if they didn’t pick it up in childhood.
These infections tend to be more severe and adults with a varicella infection are more likely to be admitted to hospital.
How getting vaccinated protects the most vulnerable among us
Most people will recover on their own within a week or two, but the infection can be serious, even life-threatening, for some – especially if they’re very young or old, pregnant or have a weakened immune system.
The illness can result in bacterial skin infections and in rare cases, pneumonia, brain swelling and stroke.
For some, these complications can be fatal.
An average of around 20 people die of chickenpox per year, according to the Vaccine Knowledge Project at the University of Oxford.
Chickenpox spots can appear anywhere on the body – including inside the mouth and around the genitals.
They tend to develop into fluid-filled blisters, before bursting and scabbing over, which can take a few days.
The spots tend to be maddeningly itchy, so it can be hard to resist the temptation of scratching them – though soothing creams and cool baths can help.
Chickenpox symptom timeline
The main symptom of chickenpox is an itchy, spotty rash anywhere on the body.
Before or after the rash appears, you might also have:
A high temperature
Aches and pains, and generally feel unwell
Loss of appetite
Chickenpox happens in three stages, but new spots can appear while others are becoming blisters or forming a scab.
Stage 1: Spots appear
The spots can:
Be anywhere on the body, including inside the mouth and around the genitals, which can be painful
Spread or stay in a small area
Be red, pink, darker or the same colour as surrounding skin, depending on your skin tone
Be harder to see on brown and black skin
Stage 2: Spots become blisters
The spots fill with fluid and become blisters. The blisters are very itchy and may burst.
Stage 3: Blisters become scabs
The spots form a scab, some are flaky, while others leak fluid.
It usually gets better on its own after one to two weeks without needing to see a GP.
Source: NHS
Sometimes the chickenpox spots can get infected with bacteria – probably from scratching, according to healthcare provider Bupa.
Signs of a bacterial infection include a high temperature and redness and pain around the chickenpox spots.
You should seek urgent medical help if you or your child develop these symptoms.
2. Dehydration
Young children do run the risk of becoming dehydrated due to chickenpox.
For babies and kids, fewer wet nappies and peeing less can be telltale signs of dehydration.
Other signs may include:
Feeling thirsty
Dark yellow, strong-smelling pee
Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
Feeling tired
A dry mouth, lips and tongue
Sunken eyes
Call NHS 111 if you suspect you or your little one are dehydrated from chickenpox.
3. Pneumonia
Some people – especially adults – can develop pneumonia, inflammation of the lungs, after being infected with chickenpox.
Pneumonia is the most common chickenpox complication in adults, according to NICE.
Smokers are particularly at risk.
Symptoms of pneumonia can include:
A cough with yellow or green mucus
Shortness of breath
A high temperature
Chest pain
An aching body
Feeling very tired
Loss of appetite
Making wheezing noises when you breathe
Feeling confused
4. Brain swelling
Infection or swelling of the brain, known as encephalitis, is a rare complication of the chickenpox infection.
Professor Benedict Michael, Institute of Infection, University of Liverpool, said: “Varicella-zoster virus is the second leading cause of brain infection (or ‘encephalitis’) in the UK, which can be life-threatening.
“Early diagnosis and treatment are essential, but prevention through vaccination is the most effective way to protect children and families from this serious complication.”
Dr Ava Easton, Chief Executive of Encephalitis International, added: “By making [the chickenpox vaccine] available to every child, we’re not only reducing the spread of chickenpox but also helping to stop some families from ever facing the devastating impact of encephalitis.
“That’s a powerful step forward for children’s health and for awareness of a condition too few people know about.”
Encephalitis usually starts off with flu-like symptoms, such as a high temperature and headache.
More serious symptoms develop in the next few hours, days or weeks, including:
Confusion or disorientation
Seizures or fits
Changes in personality and behaviour
Difficulty speaking
Weakness or loss of movement in some parts of the body
Loss of consciousness
Dial 999 for an ambulance immediately if you or someone else has these serious symptoms.
5. Stroke
According to the Stroke Association, children who develop chickenpox may have a four times higher risk of stroke in the six months following infection.
“However, stroke in children is still rare and the finding translates into a very small actual increase in their stroke risk,” it noted.
Studies by the organisation also found that adults with shingles – also caused by the varicella zoster virus – may also have an increased risk of stroke up until six months afterwards.
“This is particularly within the first few weeks, and for individuals with shingles around the eye,” Stroke Association said.
“Oral antiviral drugs used to treat shingles may be able to reduce this risk.”
What are the symptoms of stroke?
The FAST method – which stands for Face, Arms, Speech, Time – is the easiest way to remember the most common symptoms of stroke:
F = Face drooping – if one side of a person’s face is dropped or numb then ask them to smile, if it’s uneven then you should seek help.
A = Arm weakness – if one arm is weak or numb then you should ask the person to raise both arms. If one arm drifts downwards then you might need to get help
S = Speech difficulty – if a person’s speech is slurred then this could be a sign of a stroke
T = Time to call 999 – if a person has the signs above then you need to call 999 in the UK or 911 in the US for emergency care.
Other symptoms include:
sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body
difficulty finding words
sudden blurred vision or loss of sight
sudden confusion, dizziness or unsteadiness
a sudden and severe headache
difficulty understanding what others are saying
difficulty swallowing
6. Sepsis
In rare cases, chickenpox can result in sepsis – when the body’s immune system overreacts to an infection, attacking its own tissues and organs.
Sepsis can be life threatening and requires immediate medical help.
It can also be hard to spot, as there are lots of possible symptoms.
A beloved bakery on a picturesque seaside town in Scotland is currently seeking new staff members – no prior experience is needed and accommodation will be provided
16:16, 29 Aug 2025Updated 16:20, 29 Aug 2025
The bakery positions are based on the Isle of Mull(Image: Tom Newland Photography / Getty Images)
A dream job opportunity working on a stunning Scottish island making biscuits has become available. Housing will be supplied to the successful candidates.
Currently, The Island Bakery in Tobermory on the Isle of Mull is hunting for new team members. The coastal town is renowned as the setting of the cherished children’s television programme Balamory.
Two permanent roles at The Island Bakery are presently being promoted on job website HiJOBS with a wage of £12.60 an hour, which is the Real Living Wage. There will also be the chance for salary increases as the workers develop skills and responsibilities. The housing supplied with the roles is a two-bed flat. This makes the opportunity perfectly suited to a couple or two friends.
The Island Bakery is located just outside of Tobermory(Image: Google Maps)
The full-time roles will be permanent, with work distributed across four days between Monday and Thursday. Shifts will commence at 2pm and finish at 12am, with occasional overtime available.
Presently, The Island Bakery consists of a team of 12 people. The successful candidates will help with various elements of production, including weighing ingredients and packing.
Applicants should be able to work collaboratively and effectively in a small team. They must also be “reasonably fit”, as staff will be required to work on their feet.
No prior experience is needed to apply for the positions, though it would be beneficial. Additionally, one of the positions will involve warehouse work, so forklift experience would be advantageous.
The HiJOBS advert reads: “We’re a friendly small family business where everyone is valued, in a small island community. Opportunities to move here to a full-time permanent and year-round position with affordable accommodation included are rare. If you want to make the move we’d love to hear from you.”
The Tobermory Distillery is one of the island’s top attractions, established in 1798(Image: OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Image)
During time off, there’s plenty to explore around Tobermory over the three-day weekend, reports the Daily Record. The principal town on Mull is best known for its vibrant harbour-front properties that famously featured in Balamory.
One of the area’s premier attractions is the Tobermory Distillery, which was established back in 1798. The distillery, which crafts celebrated single malt whiskies, also offers guided tours and an extensive range of tasting sessions.
Another must-see destination in Tobermory is The Mull Museum, dedicated to the island’s captivating heritage. The compact museum houses an extensive collection of records and diverse artefacts chronicling Mull’s rich history.
Candidates for positions at The Island Bakery must participate in a virtual interview. According to HiJOBS, the bakery seeks new staff members to start at the earliest opportunity. Further details regarding the vacancy can be accessed via the HiJOBS website.
A MARRIED couple who were tragically mauled by four viscous dogs at a barbecue have been left traumatised and the husband “permanently disfigured.”
The male was viciously attacked, losing his lower ear, while his wife suffered scratches and was left “distraught”.
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The attack involved four American Bull MastiffsCredit: Getty
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Owner of two of the dogs, Daniel Hutchinson, 33, has been sentenced to 18 months in prisonCredit: NNP
On Thursday, the dog owners appeared at Newcastle Crown Court to be sentenced for the event which took place on December 27, 2021, ChronicleLive reports.
The court heard that when the attack occurred, friends Daniel Hutchinson, 33, and Michelle King, 44, were at a barbecue in North Tyneside.
Dog-breeder Hutchinson was hosting the event at his then-address on Blackhill Avenue in Wallsend.
His two American Bull Mastiffs called Flake and Major were there, along with King’s two dogs of the same breed, Ghost and Bonny.
King had purchased the dogs from Hutchinson.
During the barbecue, the four hounds ran off and attacked an unsuspecting couple.
Prosecutor, Rachel Kelly told the court that the four dogs were playing unsupervised when the four dogs ran off and mauled the victims at around 8.30pm.
She said: “Both were taken to the ground. [The man] was bitten a number of times, causing the loss of his lower ear.
“He sustained puncture wounds and injuries to his hands and fingers. [The woman] sustained scratches.”
Hutchinson – who said he’d been away buying cannabis at the time – and King, then ran to the dogs and rounded them up before returning to the house, where an ambulance was then called.
Scots dog walker ‘dumps dead pet’ at owner’s home after walk in 27C heatwave
The dog owners appeared in court via video links on Thursday to be sentenced for offences of being an owner/person in charge of a dangerously out of control dog.
Both defendants pleaded guilty.
The court heard that the man had been left “permanently disfigured” after the viscous attack.
In a victim statement the woman said she felt “distraught that this could happen.”
While Hutchinson, from Fife, Scotland, had 24 previous convictions for 44 offences, including criminal damage.
He was sentenced to 18 months in prison, but due to time spent on remand, he will likely be released immediately.
Recorder Nathan Moxon said that attack was an “isolated, one-off incident” and did not ban either of the defendants from keeping animals.
King, from Thornton, Scotland, had a previous conviction for wasting police time, bur was of good character, the court heard.
The court was told that she was remorseful, saying the attack was a tragic accident.
Mark Harrison, defending, asked for King’s prison sentence to be suspended, explaining that professionals had previously been around her dogs and “felt safe.”
The court also heard that King has a history of poor mental health and is at a “low risk of repetition.”
She was sentenced to 10 months in prison, suspended for 18 months.
Mr Moxon added that the incident must have been “a truly terrifying experience” for the victims.
No destruction orders were made and the two no longer own the Bull Mastiffs.
Which dog breeds are banned in the UK?
THERE are specific regulations in place that prohibit certain dog breeds from being owned or bred in the UK.
With Oasis fever sweeping the UK, there are plenty of other musical brands Brits dream of seeing make a comeback
Liam Gallagher of Oasis performs on stage during the opening night (Image: Gareth Cattermole, Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images)
Queen has been voted the top dream musical comeback by Brits, following the storming success of Oasis’ reformation.
As Oasis mania sweeps the nation, a survey asked music fans to name the artists and bands they’d most love to see return to the stage, with Queen securing the top spot with 29% of the vote.
Music legends from various eras including The Beatles (28%), Fleetwood Mac (19%), Spice Girls (13%), Girls Aloud (10%) and Aretha Franklin (9%) also feature on the list of stars we’re itching to see live again.
Elvis (23%), Whitney Houston (20%) and R. E.M (13%) also made the cut, reports the Daily Star.
A whopping 70% of respondents are thrilled about Oasis’ return to the live music scene, with nearly half (47%) confessing they’d go to great lengths to see their favourite bands if they were to make a comeback.
It’s hardly surprising that a massive nine out of ten (90%) agree that experiencing live music is one of life’s greatest joys, with three quarters (73%) loving the atmosphere and two thirds (66%) savouring the experience.
Mercury died in 1991(Image: Getty Images)
Over half (59%) say there’s nothing quite like enjoying live music with their partner, while 53% love letting loose with their mates.
The 90s (45%) was crowned the best decade for music, followed by the 80s (40%), 2000s (30%) and 70s (20%), according to the 2,000 Brits polled by Marella Cruises, TUI’s UK ocean cruise line.
A whopping 92% of Brits use music to get them in the holiday mood, with 90s tunes (49%), classic holiday anthems (36%), 00s hits (23%) and lounge music (21%) all contributing to that holiday feeling.
Yet, despite our love for music, nearly half (48%) of us believe that listening to it on speakers or phones doesn’t compare to experiencing it live, which is why Brits are planning to attend an average of three live gigs and festivals this year.
A significant 64% are keen to attend more gigs this year than last, to make the most of who’s performing live (44%) and who’s making a comeback (43%).
Other factors that make live music unforgettable include creating lasting memories (52%), dancing the night away (40%), spending time with mates (37%), belting out the lyrics (37%) and feeling the rhythm in your bones (37%).
To cater to the nation’s craving for 90s music and their dream gig, Marella Cruises has launched its ‘Electric Sunsets 90s vs 00s’ themed cruise – a three-day adult-only event, which is reviving the 90s and 00s with headline acts like Kimberly Wyatt from the Pussycat Dolls and B*Witched.
Chris Hackney, Managing Director at Marella Cruises, commented: “The latest research highlights a growing trend among Brits embracing musical comebacks-especially from the 90s, which remains the nation’s most beloved music decade. That’s why we’re over the moon to announce the return of our Electric Sunsets themed cruise for its fifth year. This unique voyage offers a chance to sail the Mediterranean while enjoying unforgettable entertainment with a nostalgic twist, featuring acts like Kimberly Wyatt from the Pussycat Dolls, B*Witched, and Booty Luv. Passengers, whether new to cruising or seasoned cruisers, can relive iconic hits while enjoying a one-of-a-kind cruise holiday experience.”
Turkey is one of the most popular holiday destinations for Brits, but many people make a mistake when it comes to exchanging their money that can make their trip more expensive
Turkey is one of the most popular holiday destinations for Brits (stock photo)(Image: BTWImages via Getty Images)
Turkey is fast becoming a favourite holiday spot for Brits, with its sun-soaked resort towns and bustling cities like Istanbul drawing in millions of us each year. In fact, a whopping 4.4 million UK tourists jetted off to Turkey in 2024 alone, making it the eighth most popular destination for British holidaymakers. While it’s still playing catch-up with hotspots like Spain, France, and Greece, the number of visitors is on the rise each year, and it could soon break into the top five.
But there’s one common blunder many Brits make when heading to Turkey that can make their holiday pricier than they bargained for. With just one simple change, you could save a pretty penny on your trip.
A Turkey travel guru named Katherine has shared some insider tips for those planning a trip to Istanbul in a TikTok video, but her top piece of advice applies no matter where in the country you’re headed.
She warns against exchanging your local currency for Turkish Lira before you set off, as you could end up getting a poor exchange rate and spending more dosh than you planned.
Instead, she suggests swapping your cash for Euros or Dollars first, then taking that to Turkey and changing it into Turkish Lira once you’re there.
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She explained: “Never change Lira in your home country or the airport in Turkey. Instead, bring Euros or Dollars and exchange small amounts [while you’re here], because Turkish Lira is pretty unstable.
“The best exchange spots [in Istanbul] are the Grand Bazaar or Istiklal Street. I always go to the one right across from the Swarovski store at Istiklal.”
Whilst that money-saving tip works throughout the nation, Katherine’s additional guidance focuses specifically on getting around Istanbul.
She advised that you should never pay for public transport using your credit card or contactless payment, as you’ll face a staggering 40% surcharge. Instead, you should purchase a travel card known as an Istanbulkart, which is available at any metro station.
Lastly, Katherine cautioned against hopping into “random airport taxis,” as you could end up paying five to ten times more than the journey should actually cost.
Taxi applications such as Uber, Bitaski, and InDrive offer far superior alternatives for travelling around the city, as you can opt to pay through the app.
Turkey travel guidance
When travelling to Turkey with a full British citizen passport, the passport must expire at least 150 days after the date you arrive and have at least one blank page inside.
You can visit Turkey for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa, whether you’re visiting for business or tourism. Longer stays require a short-term residence permit. If you’re considering taking money to Turkey for exchange, it’s crucial to understand the currency rules.
While there’s no cap on the amount of foreign currency or Turkish Lira you can bring into Turkey, you’re restricted from taking Turkish Lira equivalent to more than $5,000 USD out of the country.
A woman has shared her frustration after an ‘entitled’ passenger tried to steal her plane seat – but she managed to get the last laugh with a cutting response on the flight
The woman wasn’t about to give up her plane seat (stock image)(Image: Frazao Studio Latino via Getty Images)
A woman has hit out at an ‘entitled’ passenger who stole her plane seat and tried to pull it off with ‘main character energy’. She detailed her experience on a nine-hour flight from Abu Dhabi to Bali, which had two economy sections.
The first section was described as “big and crowded”, but she had the foresight to pre-book a seat in the second section where every seat boasted extra leg room. Taking to Reddit, she shared: “Guess which one I booked? Yep, the smaller one, because I actually planned ahead, paid the higher fare, and got the perks (priority boarding, luggage, and that sweet legroom).
“Boarding finishes, and the woman next to me slides into the empty window seat, leaving the middle empty. Dream scenario: me on the aisle, her on the window, and glorious space in between.
“I’m snuggled up under a blanket, headphones in, hoodie up. Universal ‘do not disturb’ mode activated.”
Once the aircraft reached cruising altitude and the seatbelt sign went off, the woman felt a tap on her shoulder and turned to see a woman in her late 20s to early 30s grinning at her.
The woman continued: “She starts with, ‘Wow, you look so comfortable!’ Translation: she’s about to make me uncomfortable.
“She explains she wants me to swap seats with her so she and her friend (currently seated in the sardine can section) can take my aisle and the free middle seat.
“Her seat? Somewhere back in the busy main cabin, absolutely not extra legroom. I just smiled and said: ‘No thank you.’ Her jaw dropped.
“She tried to argue, so I spelled it out, ‘This is a paid extra legroom cabin. I booked it in advance, it wasn’t free, and I’m not giving it up so two adults who didn’t plan ahead can sit together’.”
She says the entitled woman looked at her as if she’d just “slapped her across the face” before walking away with a sour expression.
She added: “I put my headphones back on, hoodie up, and turned toward the window. Curtain closed on that conversation.
“The absolute audacity of people never ceases to amaze me. Pay for your seat like the rest of us.”
Commenting on her post, one user said: “I can’t believe the hide of some people.”
While someone else added: “My brother is tall so he always books the extra legroom seats. He also travels pretty often.
“He has told me that on almost every flight he is on someone will try to get him to swap with them to some squished no no-legroom seat. He has mastered the ‘f*** off’ and ‘what part of f*** off don’t you understand?'”
A third user said: “My come back line as always is….. ‘sure for $1,000 (£743) cash, you can have the seat, that’s my price.'”
