Life Style

Ash Wednesday (18th February) signals the beginning of Lent, but if you're intending to abstain from something for the next 40 days, you could be making one significant error.Lent is a Christian observance which spans from Shrove Tuesday (17th February), commonly referred to as Pancake Day, through to Maundy Thursday (2nd March), which falls just before Easter.The Lenten period is marked by Christians, and others wishing to observe the tradition, relinquishing something they regard as an indulgence, such as chocolate, comfort foods, social media, or television.Some Christians from more orthodox or traditional branches may opt to fast during Lent, though it's more typical to select one thing to give up.There's also an important factor you should consider after Shrove Tuesday – and Revere...

Duchess Sophie makes fashion ‘pivot’ as she debuts biggest fashion trend of 2026 (Image: Getty) This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more The Duchess of Edinburgh signalled a clear fashion pivot when she stepped out on a royal engagement earlier this week, visiting Brendoncare Knightwood. The 61-year-old royal embraced one of 2026’s biggest trends: the refined knit co-ord. Long admired for her understated and elegant style, Sophie's latest appearance felt notably modern - a confident shift toward softer tailoring that reflects the evolving mood of royal dressing. Wearing a rich maroon skirt and jacket combination layered with a coordinating knit, Sophie struck a balance between authority and approachability. The tona...

The pub is described as one of the best in the UK (Image: LightRocket via Getty Images)Pub lovers have shared their verdict on "one of the best pubs in England", and were astonished by its history and atmosphere.Known as @thosepubguys on social media, the team tour the country, visiting pubs and rating them online.In a recent clip, they stopped at Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem in Nottingham, prompting them to ask: "Is this the oldest pub in England?"In their Instagram caption, they wrote: "This pub ranks 2nd in our list of best pubs in the country, and you can see why! There is so so so much history. It is literally built into the side of a cliff with secret tunnels to Nottingham Castle above it!"Throughout the footage, they guide viewers around the pub and its secret tunnels, recounting le...

2026 may be a challenging year for some (Image: Getty)The Year of the Horse has officially arrived as Lunar New Year festivities commence. The celebrations span approximately 15 days, with the culturally significant festival centring on family gatherings, honouring ancestors and community rejuvenation.Each day features distinctive rituals, all building towards the Lantern Festival on March 3 this year. Every year on the Chinese calendar is symbolised by one of 12 animals: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat (also known as Sheep/Ram), Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. These animals embody specific personality traits and are associated with varying fortunes each year. Read more: Luckiest colours to wear over Chinese New Year for fortune and romance Read more: Handy Chinese ...

Does your dog have separation anxiety? (stock) (Image: Getty)A vet has issued a serious warning to dog owners about a common error that could be worsen their pet's separation anxiety.Amir Anwary cautioned that certain well-intentioned behaviours may actually amplify the issue – creating unnecessary stress for both owners and their dogs.In a video posted on TikTok, the vet outlined the mistakes many pet owners make and described how they can inadvertently compound daily routines whilst reinforcing anxious behaviour.He said: "Separation anxiety in dogs can be a common challenge for pet owners, but understanding how to address it effectively can make all the difference."Many owners inadvertently contribute to their dog's anxiety, leading to a cycle of distress. Recognising and correcting t...

It might feel a little early to be brainstorming for a Mother's Day gift, but there's nothing wrong with getting ahead so you're not caught empty-handed come March 15. If you're looking to treat your Mum (or any mother in your life) on her special day, a gift set is always a good idea, and LookFantastic has just launched one that can save you £130 on skincare, makeup and haircare goodies from big brands.The Mother's Day Edit contains eight products from top brands like Clinique, Elemis and Olaplex, and is said to be collectively worth over £180, but shoppers get it for £50. This means the box helps save around 72% compared to buying all the products individually.Inside, you'll find a versatile selection of products, packed in a reusable makeup bag that's perfect for keeping toiletries w...

A retail giant has announced its new major expansion across the UK. Within this plan, five new branches of the popular supermarket to open within 24 hours, marking an impressive start to the year.Lidl has announced it will launch 19 stores in total over the next eight weeks. The expansion reflects growing demand for convenient and affordable food shopping. It will also bring new jobs and more choices to communities across the country. Is your local town on the list? Find out more below.This means one new store will open every two days, creating up to 640 new jobs. Opening days will include free food samples and special Lidl prizes for shoppers.The five stores due to open on Thursday are:Chester, Caldy Valley RoadCalne, Oxford RoadDereham, Yaxham RoadHavant, Purbrook WayLondon, Stamford ...

Royal Mail has issued warnings to residents in specific postcode areas that their delivieries will arrive later than expected. The postal service strives to deliver mail to homes throughout the UK six days a week.There have been numerous disruptions in recent weeks, with Royal Mail alerting  over 100 postcodes to delays earlier this week. As of Monday, February 16, 38 delivery offices reported hold-ups affecting 105 postcodes nationwide. Royal Mail said: "We aim to deliver to all addresses we have mail for, six days a week."In a small number of local offices, this may temporarily not be possible due to local issues such as high levels of sick absence, resourcing, or other local factors. In those cases, we will rotate deliveries to minimise the delay to individual customers."We also prov...

A new travel trend has emerged as half of all over-50s are planning to take a 'golden gap year,' with visiting new and missed destinations being the primary motivation.A poll of 2,000 adults aged 50 and over, commissioned by Emirates, found that 67% are keen to visit places they were unable to see in their younger years. A third of respondents see this extended break as a 'new chapter for learning and discovery.' The most appealing trips included visiting natural wonders (62%), safari or wildlife adventures (27%) and winter sun destinations (45%).Jabr Al Azeeby, spokesperson for Emirates, which commissioned the research, said: “We’re seeing a real behavioural shift amongst our UK-based over-50 passengers.“They’re no longer just ticking off destinations, they’re planning trips that fulfi...

Asda has issued an urgent warning to shoppers to immediately stop using one of its toys due to a serious health hazard. The supermarket has provided comprehensive guidance on safe disposal after asbestos was discovered in the products.A selection of Stretcherz Stretch Squad Assortment and Slammerz Assortment Toys has been withdrawn. The products are described as small stretch toys containing a sand-like substance. The Stretch Squad Assortment toys bear the barcode 5050837662419 and were available from January 2024 to February 2026.The Slammerz Assortment toys have the barcode 5050835105345, and were stocked from January 2025 to February 2026.The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has published a recall notice in conjunction with Asda. It stated: "The product presents a risk ...