Life Style

Nurses, paramedics, and firefighters have topped a poll as the UK's most respected professions, revered for their impact on society. The study involving 2,000 adults also placed teachers and foster carers high on the list for carrying out some of the most valuable work in our communities.A quarter said they feel inspired when speaking to someone whose job they believe truly makes a difference. Yet, 16 per cent of said they feel dissatisfied in their own jobs, often due to what they see as a lack of contribution to society. The research was commissioned by National Fostering Group which has developed a quiz to help people explore whether they have the skills suited to fostering.Tim Barclay, CEO of the organisation, said: "It's clear the roles we most admire – from first responders to tea...

I don’t know about you, but when summer hits, I’m more interested in getting outside than faffing about figuring out what to wear. That’s why, for me, hot-weather style is all about dresses. However, finding a dress that works for every eventuality (and doesn’t make you overheat or feel overdressed) can be surprisingly tricky. Plus, with the sun shining, it’s the perfect time to inject some colour into your wardrobe. That’s why one Boden cotton midi dress caught my eye, having been described by shoppers as "bright and cheerful" in reviews. On first impression, the dress looks loose and airy enough not to cling, bright without being shouty, and the cut seemed extremely flattering.Now, as part of the summer sale, the Violet cotton midi has been reduced from its usual full price of £136 to...

A group of motoring experts tested a range of plug-in hybrid vehicles on sale and came to a decision on the clear winner.The team put vehicles from major manufacturers such as MG, Volkswagen, and Jaguar Land Rover to the test in a bid to determine which plug-in hybrid stands above the rest.Plug-in hybrids combine an electric motor with a petrol engine; predominantly relying on the engine while also offering the capability to operate solely on electric power for brief spells.These dual-powered vehicles offer a significant benefit over conventional petrol or electric cars, enabling emission-free driving in urban environments and switching back to petrol for longer distances, thereby mitigating 'range anxiety'.The internal combustion engine is not just for propulsion but can also help rech...

As the temperature dial reaches 30C this week across Britain, many dogs could be struggling with the heat. Any concerned pet owners may appreciate the advice shared by canine expert Yasmin El-Saie, who recommended one essential way to look after your dog during the hot weather."Regular grooming plays a crucial role in keeping dogs cool," said Yasmin, who is especially important for dogs with thick fur coats. Yasmin explained: "Brushing helps remove loose fur and promotes airflow across the skin. This is especially important for thick-coated breeds who can overheat more easily."She added: "Keeping that grooming appointment, or regular brushing at home, can make a big difference in heat regulation."Yasmin wanted to emphasise that "dogs can’t sweat like humans", so it's our responsibility ...

For me, going to the airport is as much of an experience as the holiday itself, and making sure I have a cute but comfortable outfit on is key. That’s why tracksuits are the best thing, in my opinion, for the journey out.On the way back, I genuinely don’t care what I look like (it’s usually a leggings and a t-shirt situation after I’ve been chilling in swimwear all day), but there’s something about the way there that’s so full of hope and possibility that gets me really excited - and I want to look nice too.So, that’s why, when I flew from Manchester Airport to Palma last month, I knew my Juicy Couture tracksuit was a must-wear. It ticks all the boxes of comfort, cuteness, bling on the top and the bottom, and Y2K having its moment again, as a Zillennial, really means a lot to me. Of cou...

This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more The 35 most popular breeds with the shortest lifespans (Image: Getty)As much as we love our furry friends, unfortunately, our dogs cannot stay with us forever. While the average dog lives between 10 and 13 years, some breeds sadly fall well short of that range. To provide some comfort, pet experts suggest that the first year of a dog's life is equal to 15 years of a human's, the second year to nine human years, and every year after that to five human years.However, whether it be the size of the pooch, its genetics, or predisposition to deadly diseases, a range of factors can cause a dog's life to be cut short. A 2024 study published in Nature analysed nearly 585,000 dogs ac...

If you ever needed proof that style doesn’t have a sell-by date, look no further than Jo Good (aka @middleagedminx). The 70-year-old This Morning fashion regular and style influencer stepped out in a navy polka-dot jumpsuit from River Island at Royal Ascot this week – a whole outfit-in-one for £66.With its V-neck that exposes just the right amount of skin, flattering tie waist, breezy chiffon sleeves that give upper arm coverage and softly structured wide legs, it’s the kind of high-street buy that instantly elevates, regardless of your age or dress size. Plus it’s reasonably priced and in a timeless print. “I love fashion, I always have,” Jo recently told her 40k+ Instagram followers. “I dress for joy, not for approval, and that freedom is the best part of growing older.”For anyone thi...

A man has sparked a debate after refusing to take in his neighbour's parcel despite having no problem with it for months.The 33-year-old explained how he shares custody of his son, aged five, with his ex-partner and currently lives in a two-bed rental in a quiet street.With only five houses on his road, he knows his neighbours quite well and stops to chats with them when they're outside.However, he believes one of his neighbours has been taking advantage of him and he has now had enough. He said on Reddit: "About six months ago, I took in a package delivered for the house at the other end of the row."The package was a heavy box, containing a bag of dog food. Later that evening, the neighbour, 38, came to pick it up. I know she lives alone and offered to carry it for her."She accepted th...

Aldi has become a major supermarket in the UK, claiming the fourth-largest position after Tesco, Sainsbury's, and Asda. According to data from Kantar released in 2023, it already attracts more than two-thirds of shoppers across the nation, and now even more people will have the chance to make Aldi their local supermarket.The retailer is expanding its store portfolio with 450 more sites expected to be added to its existing group of 1,050 supermarkets. Huge progress is expected to be made this summer as 10 new sites prepare to make their debut and 20 more have been earmarked for the future. Is your local area on the list?Where is Aldi opening new sites?Aldi is working towards a long-term target of having 1,500 stores across the UK, and this summer alone, the supermarket giant will make it...

Boden has dropped a huge summer sale online with up to 70% off womenswear and childrenswear. The selection includes previous bestsellers and current must-haves. This  V-neck Puff Maxi Dress in pink and blue has been marked down from £155 to £46.50 - a massive 70% saving. Featuring a foliage paisley print, the maxi dress is ideal for tropical vacations. It has a flouncy skirt and volume on the sleeves, creating a flattering fit and flare silhouette. Shoppers have already given the piece rave reviews on Boden's website.With regular and petite lengths available, the dress offers a polished look with 3/4 sleeves and an elasticated waistband. It's crafted from a lightweight fabric that 'just floats' and is 'perfect for mature ladies', according to reviewers. One person praised the 'comfortab...