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Nicolas Cage fans are praising the actor after Minnie Driver revealed he once purchased a plane seat for his son’s imaginary friend. Driver shared the story about the National Treasure star, 59, who is father to sons Kal-El, 17, and Weston, 32, from previous relationships, and daughter August, nine months, with wife Riko Shibata, on Instagram on Monday in response to a viral post about Cage. The post, which was shared by the Instagram account @Iamthirtyaf and included an amusing roundup of tweets, memes and anecdotes about Cage, prompted Driver to share her own story about the actor. “Was once on a plane with NC and his son and a seat had also been purchased for his son’s imaginary friend,” Driver wrote in the comments under the viral post. She concluded her comment with a black heart emoji. The anecdote was met with joy from Instagram users, with many praising Cage for the “sweet” parenting moment. “This is amazing,” one person commented, while another said: “That’s so sweet!” “Thank you for sharing that very Nicholas Cage sweet thing to do,” someone else wrote. While the majority of responses to the story were positive, Driver’s recollection prompted one person to joke about a possible alternative reason Cage may have purchased the extra seat on the plane. “Think he just didn’t want anyone else sitting in their row?” they wrote. “Now that’s a whole new level of wealth,” another person commented. Although Cage has not addressed the anecdote himself, he has spoken candidly about the joy fatherhood brings him on a number of occasions. In 2015, Cage opened up about becoming a grandfather after his eldest son, Weston, had children of his own while speaking to People, with the actor telling the outlet: “To see my son with my grandson is as close to a sense of blissful completion I ever had.” In April 2022, after a representative for Cage confirmed that he and Shibata were expecting their first child together,The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent star told Access Hollywood that he was “extremely excited” to be a father again. “My boys are all grown up, and I miss going to the toy store. I miss singing lullabies and rocking in the rocking chair,” he said. “I’m looking forward to getting back to that.” The couple, who married in February of last year, welcomed their daughter on 7 September 2022. The Independent has contacted a representative for Cage for comment. Read More Nicolas Cage says he remembers being in his mother’s womb Nicolas Cage explains why he prefers the term ‘thespian’ to ‘actor’: ‘Sorry if that is pretentious’ British toddler has American accent after watching popular YouTube show How do I get a mammogram screening? Hacks for saving money on school uniforms

Parents and carers of children in secondary school are still spending “exorbitant amounts” on school uniforms, a charity has said. According to research conducted by The Children’s Society, which surveyed 2,000 parents across the UK in May, on average they are spending £422 per year on uniforms and £287 for primary school children. The survey found that on average pupils were expected to have three branded items, with 29% of secondary school pupils expected to own up to five branded items including PE kits, and 13% expected to have at least seven. So how exactly can parents and carers save money on school uniforms? Buy secondhand Sometimes there’s a means to buy secondhand uniforms at the school through the Parent Teacher Association, Matthew Easter, chairman of The Schoolwear Association, says. But if this isn’t the case, he adds: “Parents should challenge schools and members of staff to provide better financial support to parents.” Parents can even ask the school to reach an agreement with their recommended retail partner, to help them save money. “Have a look on local Facebook sites or sometimes schools have secondhand sales themselves,” advises teacher, mother and money saving expert Sophie Bradbury. “Sometimes you can get uniform that’s barely been worn as someone’s grown out of it too quickly. If you know anyone with children in their older years, ask them. Chances are they’ve still got some old jumpers or polo shirts hanging around. “Also check out your local charity shops and make sure to ask if they have any uniform out the back. Charity shops don’t put everything out straight away, so it’s always worth an ask. [You can also try] car boot sales. I always see old uniforms going for pennies.” It’s great when siblings attend the same school too, because you can pass down their old items. Buy good quality uniform that lasts It’s tempting to buy cheap school uniforms, but for Easter suggests it’s better to focus on quality over quantity. Easter is a parent of two girls aged seven and 10, and understands the strain it can put on families. “School uniforms are unique pieces of clothing, because pupils wear it for at least 196 days every year. It hardly changes too and doesn’t get lost as much as parents think – it’s only a small proportion. So why not invest in quality branded clothing that will last your child for a few years? “It means you can focus on purchasing the quality staple branded items, including a blazer, jumper – depending on the school – and tie from recommended retailers and then get skirts, trousers, white shirts, shoes and anything else required from independent retailers or supermarkets on the high street.” In reality, Easter suggests parents end up spending more in a shorter space of time buying lower quality uniforms, because they might need to be replaced. Buy it big so you get more out of it Uniforms tend not to be a one-time cost: you’ll have to buy replacements whenever you child has a growth spurt and the garments no longer fit. An easy hack to minimising the amount of new uniforms you have to buy? Buy the items a bit too big, giving your child time to grow into it. Recycle or upcycle Clothing is one of the world’s most polluting industries, so don’t throw your uniform away. You can always donate them to organisations that upcycle and recycle school uniforms, such as the Re:Form scheme (run by Trutex), which sells pre-owned uniforms at reduced prices. Or organisations like Pickni Uniforms, founded by Croydon rapper Jords and his friend Jamahl Rowl, which collaborates with schools, community organisations, and social service agencies to provide free school uniforms to students from low economic backgrounds. Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live King Charles and Queen Camilla surprise spa guests in bathrobes at eco-village Nearly 1.5m 18 and under referred for mental health support in 2022 – charity Holiday hygiene horrors: Summer health risks to avoid, from flying to hotels

Almost 1.5 million people aged 18 and under were referred for mental health support in 2022, according to a youth mental health charity. According to YoungMinds’ analysis of data from NHS Digital, there were 1,425,193 referrals last year, a rise of 76% since 2019. The charity also said it is the second consecutive year that referrals have topped one million. Laura Bunt, chief executive of YoungMinds, said: “Every day without action is another day thousands of young people are without the mental health support they need. Behind every number is a young person facing impossible challenges.” In April 2022, the Government made a call for evidence for a new 10-year mental health plan. Any new plan for the NHS workforce needs to include significant measures to increase the numbers of mental health specialists we have working in children and young people's mental health services Tom Madders, YoungMinds As part of the call, 13,887 people under the age of 25 completed a YoungMinds survey and the answers were shared anonymously with the Government. Ms Blunt said those who responded made it “loud and clear what change was needed”. However, the plan was shelved in favour of the Major Conditions Strategy, which grouped mental illness together with the likes of cancer and chronic respiratory diseases. The call for evidence for the new strategy ends on Tuesday. In response, YoungMinds and a group of young people will take two vans to Westminster displaying messages from some of the people who responded to the initial call over the 10-year mental health plan. Ms Blunt added: “Twelve months on, as the situation worsens, we are still waiting. The Government had an opportunity to hear from young people and take action that could transform the system, but all we’ve seen is delay. “The Government must listen to young people and commit to action that drives down numbers of young people needing support, prioritises early intervention, and properly funds mental health services.” Tom Madders, director of communications and campaigns at YoungMinds, said: “This explosion in referral numbers has led to wait times being as long as two years in parts of the country. “One of the biggest barriers for getting wait times down is the lack of staff and young people are paying the price for a total absence of workforce planning over the past few years.” On Sunday, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said the NHS Workforce Plan, a 15-year blueprint outlining how the NHS will retain and recruit staff, will be published this week. Mr Madders added: “Any new plan for the NHS workforce needs to include significant measures to increase the numbers of mental health specialists we have working in children and young people’s mental health services.” Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Holiday hygiene horrors: Summer health risks to avoid, from flying to hotels Pretty garden plants you didn’t know you could eat Group B Strep: 8 things every parent should know

Nobody likes getting sick, and illness on holiday is even worse – who wants to waste their precious vacation days lying in bed when they could be out having fun? Unfortunately, the chances of catching a bug can be high when you’re travelling. From airports and planes crammed with passengers to hotel rooms and restaurants with questionable cleanliness (even if it’s not visible to the naked eye), no wonder so many of us end up with the lurgy abroad. Here, health experts discuss the major health risks that occur on summer holidays and how to avoid them. Airports “Airports often become crowded and therefore they present multiple hygiene risks,” suggests Dr Donald Grant from The Independent Pharmacy. “Touching surfaces, using airport bathrooms and being in close proximity to others can cause bacteria to spread, so it’s important to be hygiene-alert.” Plus, having to hand your passport, boarding pass and luggage to different staff members increases the number of touchpoints throughout your journey. Dr Angela Rai, GP from the London General Practice recommends regularly washing your hands or applying hand sanitiser as you make your way through the airport. She says: “Washing your hands or using hand sanitiser helps reduce the risk of transmission of lots of different infections, including viral infections, coughs and colds and potentially gastrointestinal infections as well.” Flying “If someone is sitting next to you [on an airplane] and they have a cold, it may well be that you might catch one,” says Dr Preethi Daniel, deputy medical director at London Doctors Clinic. “There are hundreds of viruses that cause illness and the fact that you are mixing with people from all over the world means exposure to viruses and bugs your body may not be used to already.” It’s not only airborne bugs that you have to worry about, says Grant: “Again, it’s important to wash or sanitise your hands frequently during your flight, especially before eating or drinking, after using the bathroom, or if you’ve touched your armrest, tray table or TV screen.” As an extra precaution, you might also want to wipe down your down your table and armrests with an antibacterial wipe. Hotel rooms “While all hotel rooms should be thoroughly cleaned between each guest’s stay, you can never be fully sure that your room is bacteria-free,” says Grant. “To be on the safe side, take some disinfectant wipes and give the surfaces a good wipe down when you arrive — and don’t forget the TV remote, which may have been handled by hundreds of people without being cleaned.” Be extra careful with eating and drinking utensils in your room, he adds: “You should avoid using drinking glasses or mugs provided by the hotel without cleaning them thoroughly first.” Food and drink When eating and drinking at local spots abroad, Daniel’s advice is to “check for cleanliness even in established restaurants; paying particular attention to the state of tablecloths, cutlery, glasses and whether the tables are wiped down properly”. Look out for flies on food as well, she warns: “They are often loaded with pathogens as they do not discriminate between feeding on food or faeces. “E. coli, salmonella or shigella are some of the most common causes of gastrointestinal infections on holiday. “Hepatitis A and typhoid are other infections you can contract from contaminated food or water.” Never drink tap water unless you know it’s safe, and beware of tap water being used in food and drink prep. Rai says to be careful with ice as it might have been made with tap water and “things like salads and raw vegetables that have been washed in that water”. “Stick to peelable fruit,” Daniel adds. “Bananas, mangoes and the like are perfectly fine to eat. Avoid anything that has already been peeled, chopped and is waiting in handy takeaway sizes for you.” Swimwear and towels “Unpleasant odours and growth of bacteria are some of the risks of poor hygiene when it comes to swimwear and beach towels,” says Daniel. “They trap moisture”, which could leave you vulnerable to “getting infections such as bacterial vaginosis or thrush”. Grant says: “Be mindful that your towel is likely getting dirtier on holiday than it would be at home — especially if you’re taking it to the beach or the pool. You should change or wash your towel at least every other day.” And unless you’ve got a different swimsuit for every day of the holiday, you’ll need to give it a wash. “You’re meant to wash your swimwear after every time you wear it, because you have to treat it like your underwear,” says Rai. Haven’t got access to a washing machine on holiday? Rai says: “Just gently hand wash your swimwear every time you use it with warm soapy water then hang it up to dry.” Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Pretty garden plants you didn’t know you could eat Group B Strep: 8 things every parent should know Princess Diana’s ‘black sheep’ jumper predicted to sell at auction for up to £70,000

Amy Dowden has said she showed her reconstructed breast to her former Strictly Come Dancing co-star Sara Davies, after undergoing a mastectomy to treat breast cancer. The professional dancer revealed that Davies was helping to adminiser an injection as she continues to recover from her operation, which took place two weeks ago. Dowden, 32, also spoke about her surgery in more detail via her Instagram Stories and said she had “no choice” but to undergo a full mastectomy because she had “more than one tumour”. In May, the TV star revealed she had been diagnosed with grade three breast cancer, which is the most aggressive grade, but doctors caught it early. She also suffers from Crohn’s disease and has been praised for raising awareness of the condition. She posted an Instagram Story with Davies on Monday (26 June) and explained that she had to give herself a new injection using a syringe rather than a pen, and Davies was there to help her. “I’ve not done it on my own before so guess who’s going to do it with me?” she said, before gesturing towards Davies, who smiled at the camera. “You don’t mind, do you? Also, what did I show you last night?” Davies replied: “I got to see the new boob. It’s a nice boob!” Amy laughed as she said that Davis suggested she should “get the other one done”. “I just said, that is one good-looking boob!” the former Dragon’s Den star clarified. “Marvellous job. Fantastic!” Dowden added: “Other than the nipple, you wouldn’t really know, would you?” In another video, the dancer explained that after her mastectomy, doctors were able to “put the implant in” her breast rather than an “expander” to help stretch the skin for a later surgery. “For me, it’s a better option because [it means] no more surgery. I woke up and they’d managed to put the implant in, so I have had reconstruction,” she told fans. “I believe later on you can have the nipple tattooed – not sure if I’m gonna do that yet.” Dowden’s post-surgery recovery comes as the Duchess of York is recuperating from her own mastectomy, after it was confirmed this week that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer. Sarah Ferguson’s spokesperson said on Sunday (25 June) that the duchess was “advised she needed to undergo surgery which has taken place successfully” and that she is “now recuperating with her family”. She spoke about her diagnosis in the latest episode of her podcast with businesswoman Sarah Thomson and urged everyone listening to “go and get checked… Don’t wait.” Dowden revealed her diagnosis in an interview with Hello! magazine and said she has “got a really good chance of getting back out on the dance floor as soon as possible”. She added that she hopes to raise awareness around breast cancer alongside her existing work on Crohn’s, which is a lifelong disease where parts of the digestive system become inflamed. In 2020, she released a BBC documentary about living with the disease titled Strictly Amy: Crohn’s and Me. After her surgery, Dowden said she was waiting to find out if she needs to have just radiotherapy or additional chemotherapy. She told The Mirror that Strictly was “leaving the door open” if she can return to the show. “If I only have radiotherapy, I’ll be back on Strictly this season,” she said. “Once radiotherapy is done there’ll be nothing to stop me, there’s no pressure but Strictly is leaving the door open. It’s having something to work towards.” Dowden is married to her long-term partner Benjamin Jones, who is also a professional dancer. The couple wed in 2022, after having to reschedule their wedding due to the Covid pandemic. Read More How dogs became my greatest adversary on the dating scene Influencers called out for visiting and promoting Shein’s factory in China Philosopher sparks outrage with essay about why people shouldn’t travel: ‘Very elitist’ Woman whose baby was diagnosed with rare disease warns of ‘terrifying’ symptoms Man enters beard competitions around the world – and so does his wife Group B Strep: 8 things every parent should know

Group B streptococcus (GBS) is the most common cause of life-threatening infection in newborn babies, and it can kill within hours – yet the UK doesn’t routinely test pregnant women for it. The charity Group B Strep Support (GBSS) says an average of two babies develop a GBS infection every day in the UK, and while most recover, one baby dies as a result of the infection each week, and one baby a week survives with life-changing disabilities. GBSS says around two to four out of every 10 women in the UK will carry group B strep in their rectum, vagina, or intestines, although most of them won’t experience any symptoms. However, if a woman’s pregnant, group B Strep can affect her baby around the time of birth. Speaking to mark July’s Group B Strep Awareness Month, GBSS chief executive Jane Plumb, who set up the charity in 1996 with her husband Robert after their son, Theo, died from GBS infection aged 17 hours, stresses that raising awareness of Group B Strep can save babies’ lives and minimise the heartache the illness often causes. “Group B strep is the most common cause of severe infection, including sepsis and meningitis, in newborn babies, yet people are not routinely told about it during pregnancy. This isn’t good enough,” she says. Here’s what all parents-to-be and new parents should know about GBS… 1. It can cause meningitis, sepsis and pneumonia As the most common cause of infection in newborns, Plumb says GBS, which affects around 800 babies in the UK every year, can lead to serious conditions including meningitis, sepsis and pneumonia. As a result, around 50 babies will die every year, and 75 will survive with a long-term disability. “Group B strep awareness is a matter of life and death,” says Plumb. “By shining a spotlight on this silent infection, we can save precious lives and spare families from unnecessary heartache.” 2. GBS infections can be prevented in babies Most GBS infections in newborn babies can be prevented, says Plumb, by identifying women with risk factors. “One of the risk factors is carrying the bacteria during pregnancy,” she says, “and then intravenous antibiotics can be offered during labour to minimise the risk of the baby developing a group B strep infection.” 3. A mother carrying GBS doesn’t necessarily mean her baby will be infected GBSS says around 20-25% of women carry GBS in their vagina and/or lower intestines, but if a woman is carrying GBS when she gives birth, the risk of her baby developing early-onset GBS infection is about one in 400 if antibiotics aren’t given in labour, or around one in 4,000 if antibiotics are given. 4. It’s not just newborn babies that get GBS infections Although most GBS infections develop in the first two days of life, they can develop later, though they are rare after the age of three months, says Plumb. “Knowing the key signs is vital – every family needs to know about GBS,” she stresses. 5. Most women who carry GBS don’t have symptoms GBS carriage isn’t associated with symptoms, says Plumb, so most people who carry the bacteria won’t show any signs of it. 6. Antibiotics may be given to some women during labour The Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists recommends that if GBS is detected in a woman during pregnancy, or if she’s previously had a baby affected by GBS, she should be offered antibiotics in labour to reduce the risk of the baby being infected. 7. There’s no routine GBS testing in the UK The NHS doesn’t currently provide routine testing for GBS, although other high-income countries do. Plumb says UK National Screening, which sets screening policy in the UK, says there isn’t enough evidence to introduce antenatal GBS screening for all pregnant women in the UK, although a randomised control trial is due to report in 2025, and the evidence is then expected to be reviewed. Plumb says: “The evidence shows clearly that antenatal testing is better than a risk-factor strategy for preventing GBS infection in newborn babies, and GBSS think the UK should catch up its peers around the world by introducing this. Most high-income countries do so, including the USA, Canada, Hong Kong and most of Europe – why are we last on the list?” 8. Pregnant women can be tested privately GBSS says pregnant women can be tested privately for GBS, usually at between 35-37 weeks of pregnancy, at some clinics, or by doing a DIY test with a kit, which costs about £40. GBSS helpline 0330 120 0796. Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Princess Diana’s ‘black sheep’ jumper predicted to sell at auction for up to £70,000 The best onstage fashion at Glastonbury Sarah, Duchess of York has operation for breast cancer: What to know about mammograms

Sarah, Duchess of York has revealed she is recovering from an operation after being diagnosed with breast cancer during a routine mammogram. Here, the PA news agency looks into who can get a mammogram and what happens. What is a mammogram? A mammogram is a breast x-ray which looks for signs of cancer, according to the charity Breast Cancer Now. How can I get a mammogram? Patients can receive a mammogram to look for cancer that may be too small to see or feel as part of breast screening. Women aged between 50 and 71 are automatically invited for breast screening through their GP practice every three years. Those over the age of 71 can continue to have breast screening every three years by contacting their local screening unit through the NHS website or through their GP. The sooner breast cancer is diagnosed, the more effective treatment is likely to be, reducing the risk of more extensive surgery. Women may also be referred to a breast clinic for a mammogram by their GP if they have symptoms or a breast change that requires investigating. What are the symptoms of breast cancer? The first symptom of breast cancer that most women notice is a lump or an area of thickened tissue in their breast, the NHS website states. Women are advised to see their GP if they experience a new lump or area of thickened tissue in either breast, a change in the size or shape of one or both breasts or fluid discharge from either nipple. Other symptoms include a lump in either armpit or a change in the skin of the breasts, including puckering, scaly or itchy skin, crusting or a rash. How can women check their own breasts? As it is possible for breast cancer to develop in the three years between each mammogram, it is important for women to check their breasts regularly for any signs of cancer, according to the charity Breast Cancer Now. The NHS Breast Screening Programme recommends that women know what is normal for them, to look at their breasts and feel them, to know what symptoms to look for and to report any changes to a GP without delay. To check the breasts, the NHS website recommends looking at them and feeling each breast and armpit up to the collarbone. It may be easier to do this in the shower or bath. Women can also look at their breasts in the mirror both with their arms raised and by their sides. What happens during a mammogram? During a mammogram, a female doctor asks the patient to remove their clothes from the waist up and stand in front of the mammogram machine. The breasts are placed one at a time on the x-ray machine and images of each breast are taken. The scan itself should only take a few minutes, while the whole appointment should take about half an hour, according to the NHS website. The results of the mammogram are sent by post to the patient and their GP. According to Breast Cancer Now, around 4% of women are called back to a breast clinic after routine screening for more tests. While most women recalled will not have breast cancer, the follow-up appointment may involve a breast examination, further scans – such as a mammogram or an ultrasound – or a biopsy – where a small sample of tissue is taken. Breast cancer facts and figures Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in the UK, and about one in seven women are diagnosed with the disease in their lifetime, according to the NHS website. More than 80% of breast cancers occur in women over 50 and the risk continues to increase with age. Mammograms are not often used in women under 40 as younger women have denser breast tissue, which can make the x-ray image less clear and changes harder to identify, according to Breast Cancer Now. However, for women with a family history of breast cancer, UK guidelines recommend they should start having screening mammograms every year in their forties. Screening prevents an estimated 1,300 deaths from breast cancer each year in the UK, according to Breast Cancer Now.

When warmer weather arrives, many of us feel the urge to cool off with a refreshing dip at the nearest pool, pond or beach. A paddle is a pleasant way to beat the heat, it can boost your health too. “The benefits of swimming and dipping in open water are well documented,” says Lee Heard, charity director at Royal Life Saving Society UK. “Not only does being in or on open water allow new adventure, it also has documented benefits for both physical and mental wellbeing.” Research from Next found that 33% of people would look to wild swimming to find relief from muscle aches and pains, while 28% of those facing stress see it as a remedy. “Many of us only swim outdoors during the summer season,” says Ella Foote, founder of The Dip Advisor and author of How to Wild Swim: What to Know Before Taking the Plunge. But just because the sun is out doesn’t mean wild swimming is less dangerous, she says: “Learning to swim at some point in your life isn’t enough and being a fit, healthy person on dry land isn’t the same as being water fit.” There were 226 deaths in the UK from accidental drownings in 2022, according to the RNLI. Heard says: “The basic principles of open water safety, combined with knowledge and understanding of the hazards, can increase the enjoyment of open water and significantly reduce the number of incidents that occur each year.” These are the safety considerations to take into account before deciding whether to wade in… Look for lifeguards “There are a great number of open-water sites which are lifeguarded and we would urge people to go to lifeguarded venues if they are looking to take part in open water swimming,” says Heard. Use the RNLI website to find your nearest lifeguarded beach. “Lifeguards are trained professionals who can ensure your safety whilst out on the water and provide assistance should you need it,” Heard continues. “There are also a number of organised events around the country which have lifeguards on duty, so we urge people to attend those events.” Check the conditions If you’re swimming somewhere without a lifeguard, you must be aware of the potential risks.”If swimmers are aware of the potential risks and dangers, then this enables them to do a risk assessment before entering the water,” says Heard. Risks to consider include, he says: “The depth of the water – this changes and is unpredictable; underwater objects and hazards may not be visible; strong currents can rapidly sweep people away; and uneven banks and river beds.” “The weather is more changeable in coastal areas; wind can make a huge difference in the sea and how it behaves,” says Foote, who recommends checking the Tide Times or Surfline websites and following RNLI advice on rip currents. “If you plan a river swim it is worth remembering that water travels faster when a river is shallow, narrow or after spells of heavy rain,” she adds. Know your limits “Can you tread water while keeping your head above the water? Can you float on your back? Could you swim 25 meters without stopping?” asks Foote. “These are the very basic skills for keeping yourself safe in open water and if you are unsure – don’t get in.” While it can be tempting to plunge in on a hot day, never jump or dive without testing the water first. “Enter within your depth and get a feel for the water before swimming,” Foote continues. “Ensure you know where you plan to get out before getting in, sometimes it is easier to get in the water than get out.” And always trust your instincts: “If you’re at the water and something doesn’t feel right, trust that. If the water doesn’t look, or smell right, don’t get in. Outdoor swimming is joyful, but be safe.” Beware of the cold “The shock of cold water can make swimming difficult and increase the difficulty in getting out of the water,” Heard says, even during hot weather when water temperatures are rising. “The water will always be cooler than your core body temperature, so you will experience a gasp and chill on entry,” says Foote. “While it might be warm in the shallows, in deeper water it will be cold at the bottom and that can feel very different when jumping in, which can cause cold water shock and be fatal. “This is also true in coastal areas – the sea is still cool at this time of year.” Don’t trespass Choosing where to swim isn’t just about finding a safe and picturesque spot – you’ve got to make sure you’re not trespassing on private land. “As a rule, avoid reservoirs and quarries – they are often private facilities and are not designed for swimming,” says Foote. “As well as trespassing, many have steep sides and while you might get in okay, getting out can be harder. Some reservoirs have damns, towers and aerators that present a real risk to swimmers.” You should always check whether you’re allowed to swim in a lake in a national parks. The NOWCA network lists safe open water swimming venues. Take the right kit Depending on the weather and water temperature, you may need more than just a bikini or shorts for your swim. “We always recommend going swimming with a friend, wearing appropriate clothing such as a wetsuit, a tow float and a bright-coloured swimming hat,” says Heard, so that you’re more visible if you need help. And don’t forget that while a rush of endorphins can help when you’re in the water, you may feel more chilly once you get out. Heard adds: “It’s vital to also ensure that when you get out you have appropriate clothing to keep you warm after the swim.” Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Prince of Wales to launch initiative aimed at ending homelessness Beatrice enjoys Glastonbury as princess is spotted on final day of festival Kate triumphant after Frankie Dettori’s win at Royal Ascot

Mark Rylance has revealed “alarm bells” rang for him when the British population was encouraged to get the Covid vaccine in 2021. In a new interview, Rylance, 63, said he wasn’t convinced he needed the vaccine, adding that “science started to sound like religion” during the pandemic. Speaking to The Sunday Times, the Dunkirk star explained he relied on taking a “very distilled garlic solution”, along with vitamin C. “And I sailed through Jerusalem,” he said. Rylance reprised one of his most well-known roles, as Johnny “Rooster” Byron, in last year’s revival of the 2009 Jez Butterworth play Jerusalem. He told the publication he finally took the Covid vaccine when he travelled to visit his father in the US. Rylance’s comments were made in the context of his forthcoming play Dr Semmelweis, based on the life of maverick Hungarian doctor Ignaz Semmelweis. The British actor reportedly wrote Dr Semmelweis with playwright Stephen Brown before the pandemic began. Rylance said he was researching alternative cancer treatments at the time, adding that he’s sceptical about the effects of chemotherapy. He recalled how a friend allegedly “broke up the cells of a tumour” by using the vibrations from a Tibetan sound bowl. Rylance added: “The body knows how to heal itself. “We don’t need to go in and bombard it with poison. It’s like bombing a city to try and get rid of a little sect of terrorists. You may wipe them all out, but you’re going to breed 25 or 30 [more].” Earlier this month, Rylance revealed that his brother, Jonathan Waters, had died in a cycling accident, aged 60. “I am so sorry to tell you that on the 28 May, my dear brother Jonathan Waters was knocked from his bicycle and tragically died of his injuries,” the statement read. Rylance, who was very close to Waters, said the loss made him question the point of life. “It just makes everything that follows a little bleak. But also that hollowness can be a positive thing, a kind of grail or cup or vessel,” he continued. Rylance also said he believes in life after death, adding: “I think you really can have a very healthy conversation with a soul who has passed over.” The actor said he has spoken to his late grandmother and step-daughter Nataasha van Kampen, using a medium. He admitted that while his views may not be conventional or mainstream, but “don’t cause any harm”. Dr Semmelweis opens at the West End this Thursday 27 June. Read More Billy Nomates asks BBC to take down Glastonbury footage after wave of ‘personal abuse’ Guns N’ Roses review, Glastonbury 2023: Frontrunners for the worst Glasto headline set of all time Wes Anderson took a cast of stars to the Spanish desert and made his best film in years Too cool to love these acts 10 years ago? This year’s Glastonbury is for you Yellowstone creator Taylor Sheridan breaks silence on Kevin Costner’s dramatic exit

Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker have revealed the gender of their new baby. Earlier this month, Kardashian, 44, announced that she and Barker are expecting their first child together. On Saturday 24 June, the couple – who tied the knot last May – posted a gender reveal video on Instagram, along with a caption of pink and blue hearts. Kardashian is seen sitting on Barker’s lap, alongside a drum kit on a stage. The Blink-182 drummer can be heard saying: “Is our pyro guy ready?” The Poosh founder replies: “I don’t know what’s happening, whatever you guys had planned…” Her sister Khloe Kardashian can apparently be heard saying: “Let’s get the party started – we’re all excited!” Barker, 47, then begins a drum roll which ends with a burst of blue streamers, as the couple’s family and friends celebrate the news that they’re having a baby boy. “I love how they dont even look at anyone else when they’re together,” one fan reacted to the video. Referencing Kardashian and Barker’s couple name, another wrote: “They can actually name [the baby] Kravis.” Kardashian first shared the news she and Barker, 47, are expecting with a Blink-182-style pregnancy reveal video. In it, the mother of three can be seen holding up a sign that reads “Travis I’m pregnant”, recreating a scene from one of the band’s hit songs “All the Small Things”. While the video was widely celebrated on Instagram, some people suggested it was “staged” since Kardashian’s baby bump was apparently visible in it. Fans defended the reality star at the time, claiming it didn’t matter when Barker found out, and that the point of the video was simply to share the news with their followers. Earlier this week, Kardashian shared pictures of her growing baby bump, as some users speculated about her due date. Kardashian and Barker tied the knot after years of being friends, and celebrated their marriage with three wedding ceremonies – including one officiated by an Elvis impersonator in Las Vegas. Since then, the couple has documented parts of Kardashian’s experience with fertility treatments on her family’s reality series The Kardashians. In an episode last April, she also addressed how “every single person on social media is always like, ‘Kourtney’s pregnant, Kourtney’s pregnant, Kourtney’s gained so much weight” while she was undergoing IVF treatments. She told her mother Kris Jenner: “I’m like, it’s so rude to comment on people when you have no idea what they’re actually going through.” At the time, she also explained how the medication “basically put me into a depression”. Kardashian shares three children with her former partner Scott Disick. Meanwhile, Barker shares two children with his ex-wife and former Miss USA, Shanna Moakler. Read More Mother shares heartbreak after inviting whole school class to daughter’s birthday party Lewis Capaldi opens up about worsening Tourette’s tics while he’s on stage Gongs, chanting and Celtic Shamanism: What I learnt from a day at the Glastonbury Healing Field Prince Harry ‘wanted to interview Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump about childhood trauma’ How Center Parcs became a symbol of class

Dame Esther Rantzen has compiled the life lessons she’s learnt since being diagnosed with stage-four lung cancer in a new book. Rantzen, 82, first announced her diagnosis in January, before revealing it had progressed to stage four in May this year. The veteran TV presenter told the Daily Mirror she’s on “new medications” but that “nobody knows if it’s working or not”. However, reflecting on her life, she added that the diagnosis “made me realise how very lucky I am”. In an excerpt from her new book Older & Bolder: My A - Z of Surviving Almost Anything, published by The Times, Rantzen shares the lessons she’s learned – about health, family, growing older, sex, nudity, grief, and naps – since being diagnosed with cancer. “Sex drives people mad. Probably that’s what it’s for, because if you think about it, if you were sane, would you do such an inelegant, unhygienic thing?” the former host of That’s Life! writes. “Here is the good news. When you’re too old for sex, sanity returns. Here is the bad news. Then, nobody listens to you.” Rantzen explains she’s in “favour of nudity” because if we all did it more often “everyone would accept body hair and lumps”. She notes there are “several antidotes to grumpiness” including sunshine and chocolate, but “money, sadly, doesn’t work”. Other important lessons she’s learned over the years include prioritising spending time with your loved ones, health is the only thing that truly matters, and that naps are one of the “happy discoveries of growing older”. She also offers advice on motherhood, grandchildren, and the temporariness of beauty. In the excerpt, Rantzen recalls the moment she first noticed a lump in my armpit, a few days after Christmas last year. “An evangelical non-smoker”, Rantzen was shocked to discover she had lung cancer and later learned it was an extremely rare kind that most commonly attacks young Asian women. When she slowly began telling her friends and family, asking them to share their most fun memories together, Rantzen writes she was “overwhelmed” by their responses. “Another lesson cancer has taught me: the one thing worth hoarding is friendship. Never let it go. Stay in touch,” she adds. Rantzen is best known for being the presenter of the BBC’s That’s Life, a topical entertainment show, from 1973 to 1994. She also founded the charities Childline and Silver Line in 1986 and 2012 respectively. In 2015, Rantzen was made a DBE for services to children and older people through her charitable organisations. Read More Emily Eavis appreciation and not-so-secret sets: 8 of the biggest Friday highlights at Glastonbury 2023 Princess of Wales wows Royal Ascot crowds in striking red dress Kourtney Kardashian shows off baby bump as fans speculate about due date A woman stopped tidying up after her husband accused her of doing ‘nothing’. Then she filmed the results Mother shares heartbreak after inviting whole school class to daughter’s birthday party

A mother has shared how she refused to do housework for a few days, after her husband made a comment about her doing “nothing” at home. The woman, Lindsay, posted a video to TikTok earlier this month about the remark her husband, Brian, made. “My husband made a comment that I do nothing around the house,” she wrote in the text over the footage, while looking at the camera. She then revealed how she responded to this comment, writing: “So for two days, I really did nothing around the house.” The short clip continued with Lindsay documenting what happened when she didn’t clean the home, as there were toys on the floor of her kitchen, as well as dirty dishes in the sink and on the counter. Lindsay then showed the papers all over her dining room table and a basket of dirty laundry next to her couch, which had a bunch of clothes on it. She ended her video with a picture of her bathroom, as it had clothes and towels on the floor. There was also a hair brush, straightener, bottle of mouthwash, and more skin products on the sink. In the caption, she added: “Then I left town for a girls trip…,” before poking fun at her relationship with a marriage humour hashtag. The video quickly went viral, as it has amassed more than 18.6m views. In the comments, many people criticised Brian for his remark and praised Lindsay for her reaction to it. “The way I would never do anything again,” one quipped, regarding how they’d respond to Lindsay’s partner. “I hope you had him clean it after the two days,” another added “Where the hell do they get all the audacity,” a third wrote, referring to the woman’s husband. Meanwhile, other people expressed their anger over the situation, with claims that Lindsay should have divorced her husband after what he’d said. @lindsaydonnelly2 Then I left town for a girls trip… #marriagehumor ♬ Karma (feat. Ice Spice) - Taylor Swift The next day, Lindsay shared a follow-up video, in which she had a chat with her husband. After recalling how she didn’t clean the house for a few days, Lindsay also noted that her husband has “since apologised”, She then revealed to Brian that she made that TikTok video about the situation and that it quickly went viral. She also told him about some of the comments on her initial clip, in viewers claimed that she should leave him. However, she then acknowledged that her Brian is “actually a really good husband”. “That was just a real a**hole move to say that,” she added, referring to Brain’s remark about her doing nothing around the house. In the caption, she also added that her partner realised that this was a “real s****y thing to say”. Speaking to People, Lindsay revealed that when she went on her “strike”, as she took a break from doing housework, she got some amusement out of the decision. “I went out with my girlfriends the night before I made the TikTok and I was telling them how I was literally doing nothing around the house and we were all kind of laughing about it,” she said. The mother added: “And then the next day, I’m getting ready to head out to a girl’s trip and the thought crossed my mind like, ‘I’m really just gonna leave the house like this.’ I felt so bad and it hit me that, wait, this is funny. This is a moment.” @lindsaydonnelly2 Replying to @kris he agreed that was a real ? thing to say ♬ original sound - Lindsay D As she recalled that “she was kind of pissed at my husband”, she noted that she had to make a shift to her daily routine. More specifically, in order to make sure that she wasn’t doing housework, she had to unmake her daughter’s bed. “[My daughter] was in there with me while I was making the bed,” she explained. “And then I stopped myself and said, ‘You know what?’ and unmade the bed. And she asked, ‘What are you doing?’ and I said, ‘Mommy’s not doing any housework.’” She emphasised that she has a “good relationship” with her partner, “even in [their] weak moments”. She also encouraged viewers to stop making comments on her content about getting a divorce. “It’s reality and comedy at the same time,” she added about her videos. “I really hope to make more content that resonates with people in a way that doesn’t make people think we should get a divorce.” The Independent has contacted Linsday for comment. Read More Mother sparks viral debate for ‘shaming’ parent who refused to give her daughter a slice of cake Husband sparks debate after refusing to leave wife’s baby shower when he was uninvited Woman sparks debate for refusing to be a bridesmaid in future sister-in-law’s wedding Mom refuses to do housework after husband said she does ‘nothing’. Results say it all Mother shares heartbreak after inviting whole school class to daughter’s party Elon Musk vs Mark Zuckerberg: Who would win a fight between tech titans?