Life Style

Christian Bale and Morgan Freeman starred in the Batman series of films (Image: Getty) This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more British workers think life would be sweet under one fictional chief - after Charlie and the Chocolate Factory's Willy Wonka was named the UK's ideal boss. Meanwhile, ex-Queen Vic landlord ‘Dirty’ Den Watts topped a poll of the TV bosses we'd least like to work for, according to the study by business insurance experts Premierline. Willy Wonka from Roald Dahl’s children's book 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' was crowned top fictional boss (16%), ahead of technology guru Tony Stark from Iron Man (15%) and Batman's alter ego Bruce Wayne, of Wayne Enterprises (15%). It also turns out we woul...

Mould is one of the most common issues reported in UK homes (Image: Getty)Mould is one of the most common issues reported in UK homes, especially in February when windows stay shut and moisture builds up. Most people already know to check places like bathrooms, corners of walls and window frames. But experts say there is another spot where mould can spread for months without anyone noticing.Because it often develops out of sight, many households only discover the problem once the damage has already been done. And with mould linked to breathing problems and skin irritation, catching it early is important for keeping homes safe and healthy. READ MORE: Five houseplants that will naturally prevent damp and mould in your home READ MORE: Drivers told common item may be making car mouldy So...

While often eye-catching, invasive plants should not be underestimated (Image: Getty) This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more It's that time of year again when gardening enthusiasts prepare to plant flowers and get their gardens ready for summer. However, be warned - letting four species spread unchecked could result in fines or imprisonment.Although often eye-catching, these plants can wreak havoc on local ecosystems, often strangling other vegetation to create more space for their own growth. Therefore, keeping an eye on them benefits both your wallet and your garden's health.The Express has delved further into these invasive species, their tell-tale characteristics, and how to get rid of them below.American skun...

While Valentine's Day is a day of romance and love for humans, it can pose numerous risks for our four-legged friends. Chocolates, romantic dinners, flowers and decorative gifts are staples of February 14, yet many of these popular Valentine’s treats can land dogs in the emergency vet.Michael Nelson, canine expert at Kennel Store, says: "Valentine’s Day is one of those occasions where dogs are exposed to unfamiliar foods and objects all at once. People don’t realise how quickly a dropped chocolate, a chewed wrapper or a stolen dessert can turn into a vet visit. Prevention is far cheaper, and far less distressing, than treatment."Grapes, raisins and currants, which can often be found in desserts and fruit gifts.Onions, garlic and chives, commonly used in cooked meals.Any alcohol, even ju...

Households across the UK are being urged to dry their clothes outside during specific hours of the day in February to maximise sunshine and avoid dampness.The winter months are blighted by cold temperatures, frequent rain and even snow at times, which can make doing the laundry a bit of a pain. The chilly conditions, coupled with the short and darker winter days, don't exactly make for ideal clothes drying conditions, which means damp clothes often end up cluttered around your home on drying racks for days on end. Having wet laundry lying around not only leaves a lingering damp smell around your home, but it can also give your clothes a slightly stale and musty smell, too, despite being freshly washed.Fresh air helps prevent those unpleasant smells, so it's worth hanging your washing ou...

It might not seem like it, particularly with another bout of chilly weather sweeping across much of Britain this week, but the spring season will arrive sooner than expected. Whether there's a wedding in your calendar or you're planning a getaway overseas, having a versatile dress suitable for the entire season is essential.Discovering the perfect dress that meets all requirements can prove challenging. Fortunately, Roman has a gorgeous piece that's been described as 'stunning' and 'very comfortable' which ticks every box.The Fuchsia Paisley Print Boho Maxi Dress is priced at £45 and is offered in UK sizes 10 through to 20. This bohemian-style dress features an eye-catching paisley design and is made from a luxuriously soft, silk-effect material that feels light and flowing. It boasts a...

I asked 6 experts the ideal thermostat temperature — they all gave the exact same number (Image: José Araújo via Getty Images)With the UK firmly in the grip of a cold and wet winter, we are all looking for ways to keep our central heating costs as low as possible, especially since it now costs approximately £600 more a year to warm our properties than it did in 2022.While the temperature has not been too cold in recent days, considering it's February, it is forecast to drop to 0°C by the end of next week, with snow forecast for some areas. The positive news is that there are ways to reduce your heating expenses without spending money, potentially saving you considerably more than £100 each year - you can see five easy ways to do that here. You can also try the classic towel method and t...

The Reddit user's grandfather accidentally let slip a secret (stock image) (Image: Getty)Every family harbours its own secrets, from the mundane to the genuinely scandalous. While children are typically protected from less savoury aspects of family matters, as we mature many of us discover revelations which fundamentally alter our perception of those closest to us.One Reddit user revealed an astonishing secret their grandfather had inadvertently revealed which completely upended everything they believed about him, as well as their father. The user made the disclosure in a discussion thread where people revealed secrets they had discovered by accident. They said: "As a child, my grandfather loved to tell us grandchildren uplifting histories about working hard and effort being rewarded. R...

Struggling with sleepless nights due to a neighbour's noisy house party? Police have clarified what steps you can actually take in these maddening scenarios - and the guidance might surprise you.Whilst officers may occasionally respond to such incidents, it's far from guaranteed. Without additional criminal activity, police typically have no powers to tackle noise complaints, so they're often not your best port of call.An explanation on Ask the Police states: "Depending on the circumstances, the police may attend incidents like this. However, in the absence of other criminal offences being committed, the police have no powers of prosecution for noise offences, and it may be necessary for you to contact your local authority."You may be surprised to hear that Ask the Police's advice is al...

Beauty boxes have been a thing for years now, with brands like Look Fantastic and Boots dropping seasonal edits throughout the calendar. Valentine’s Day, in particular, is prime time for them. There’s no shortage of makeup and skincare boxes aimed at women, but when it comes to men, the options still feel pretty thin on the ground. That’s starting to change, though. This year, Next has stepped into the mix with a special Grooming Box for men as part of its Valentine’s Day line-up.There are other retailers dipping their toes in too, with the likes of John Lewis and ASOS releasing their own men’s beauty and grooming gift boxes. Still, they’re far rarer than the huge selection available for women. With the day of romance creeping up fast, if you're stuck for a gift idea, a grooming box cou...