Moomin was found dumped in an alleyway (Picture: Battersea)
Moomin the cat was found dumped in an alleyway, unable to use her back legs.
We still don’t know who left her there, helpless and alone, but she was lucky to be spotted by a couple who noticed a pushchair had appeared in an alleyway by their home. When the couple went to investigate, they spotted a small black and white cat trying to crawl away.
11-month-old Moomin was quickly fed and taken to Battersea’s London centre, where she was taken to the onsite clinic for emergency x-rays and pain medication.
The team discovered the cat was suffering from Metaphyseal Osteopathy, a disease that can severely affect an animal’s mobility and bones. In this case, the disease had led to a fracture in Moomin’s right back leg and a reduced bone density in her rear left leg, issues which required a complex surgery to fix.
Thankfully she was found and taken to Battersea’s London centre (Picture: Battersea)
They were able to give Moomin the surgery, which likely saved her life. Had she not been found, the cat would have starved to death, unable to walk and find her own food.
Once she had recovered from surgery, Moomin began an intensive course of physiotherapy and exercises to get her moving around.
Her treatment plan involved massages from volunteers and gentle exercises, such as rotating her leg for her so she could get used to the movement.
To help her recuperate, Moomin stayed with a foster carer who helped her learn to use her legs in a comfortable home environment.
Now, she’s back at Battersea, able to walk, and ready to find a loving home.
Moomin will need a family who’ll be up for plenty of playtime to keep her active on her leg.
Moomin is back on her feet and looking for a home (Picture: Battersea)
Rachel Saunders, Battersea’s Cattery Manager said: ‘Moomin has really come a long way since she first arrived at Battersea. It was heartbreaking to see such a young cat struggling to walk and clearly in pain.
‘We’re incredibly grateful to the members of the public who did the right thing by rescuing her from an uncertain fate and bringing her to us.
‘Moomin has been a sweet natured cat throughout her ten week stay and has won staff and volunteers over with her purring and inquisitive ways.
‘After a wobbly start to life, lucky Moomin has now found her feet and we hope it won’t be long until she also finds a new home.’
If you could give Moomin the home she deserves, get in touch with Battersea.
Depending on the scale of your dread, you might find that you can consider yourself Triskaidekaphobic…
What is Triskaidekaphobia?
Triskaidekaphobia (try saying that five times fast) is defined as an intense fear of or superstition regarding the number 13.
So if you’re spending your Friday the 13th dreading the possible bad luck that you fear could be around any corner today, then you might well be a Triskaidekaphobic.
Why is Friday the 13th considered unlucky?
It’s thought that the superstition surrounding Friday the 13th originates in the Middle Ages with the story of The Last Supper.
On the day before Jesus’s crucifixion, the 13th of Nisan in the Assyrian calendar, there were 13 people who dined with Jesus at The Last Supper.
Da Vinci’s painting of The Last Supper (Picture: DeAgostini/Getty Images)
The next day, on what we now know as Good Friday, Jesus was nailed to the cross – already not a great track record for Fridays or for the number 13.
Another theory is that the fear comes from the story of King Philip IV of France ordering hundreds of Templar Knights to be arrested on a Friday 13th in 1307.
An 18th-century illustration of a Templar Knight by Giovanni di Grevembroch (Picture: by DeAgostini/Getty Images)
Their arrest led to the Knights being tortured and burned alive.
Fast forward to 1869 and biographer Henry Sutherland Edwards wrote that Gioachino Rossini’s death on Friday the 13th was significant:
He [Rossini] was surrounded to the last by admiring friends; and if it be true that, like so many Italians, he regarded Fridays as an unlucky day and thirteen as an unlucky number, it is remarkable that on Friday 13th of November he passed away.
Since then, the superstition made it so far into the mainstream that a horror film franchise called Friday the 13th began in 1980 which has since spawned 11 more films.
In Italy however, Friday the 17th is thought to be unlucky, while in Greece there is superstition surrounding Tuesdays, with Tuesday the 13th considered particularly unlucky.
The notable thing about Gucci’s plan is that it will incorporate their entire supply chain. (Picture: Getty Images for Gucci)
Gucci has this week announced that is has become an entirely carbon neutral company.
The legendary Italian fashion brand said that the strategy is a response to the growing climate crisis and an acknowledgement of the role the fashion industry has played in contributing to environmental issues.
The company’s strategy is to reduce and offset what they call ‘unavoidable emissions’.
The notable thing about Gucci’s plan is that it will incorporate their entire supply chain – including parts of the production process that use external businesses. So the buck doesn’t just stop with Gucci – this responsibility extends to everyone they work with.
Gucci owners say that 90% of its greenhouse gas emissions happen in the early stages of the supply chain, so this tactic could significantly reduce the amount of environmental damage the company is inflicting.
To find out exactly where the worst gasses are being produced, Gucci will use its environmental profit and loss report to help it identify which areas of the supply chain need to be changed and improved.
90% of Gucci’s greenhouse gas emissions happen in the early stages of the supply chain. (Picture: Getty)
In order to offset the emissions that can’t be avoided, Gucci will partner with Redd+ – a UN project to reduce emissions from deforestation in Peru, Kenya, Indonesia and Cambodia.
Gucci’s decision to take this step is really important because fashion production is one of the biggest causes of pollution across the globe.
Last month, Oxfam found that more than two tonnes of clothing are being bought in the UK each minute. They also estimate that 11 million garments end up in landfill each week.
There is also an issue of fabric used in the production of clothing contributing to microplastics found in water supplies.
Gucci are the biggest fashion brand so far to make this pledge to go carbon neutral, and we hope other brands will follow suit.
The ‘Don’t have a bookmark?’ trend is out of control. (Picture: Vitamin Water / Chex Mix / Tor.com)
Lovers of literature, please avert your gaze.
We’d call the ‘Don’t have a bookmark?’ trend it a disturbing new trend, but in the scheme of Tide Pod challenges and Momo suicide challenges, this one is just a bit of light trolling.
The antics kicked off earlier this week when Chex Mix – an American brand that makes an inexplicable snack mix of cereal, crisps, mini breadsticks, and pretzels – posted the following tweet: ‘Don’t have a bookmark? Try using Chex Mix instead.’
Cue the collective cry of book-lovers. Even publishing giant Random House chimed in.
‘PLEASE DO NOT DO THIS. PLEASE DO NOT DO THIS. PLEASE DO NOT DO THIS. PLEASE DO NOT DO THIS. PLEASE DO NOT DO THIS. PLEASE DO NOT DO THIS. PLEASE DO NOT DO THIS. PLEASE DO NOT DO THIS. PLEASE DO NOT DO THIS. PLEASE DO NOT DO THIS. PLEASE DO NOT DO THIS. PLEASE DO NOT DO THIS,’ said @RandomHouse.
Some were more impressed by Vitamin Water’s brazen response to Chex Mix’s tweet.
‘Your marketing designer is a terrifying, eldritch chaos spirit and I mean that in the most complimentary sense possible,’ wrote user @RoAnnaSylver.
In the spirit of sheer chaos, other brands and users were quick to partake in the viral trend, using chicken wings, ‘beef sheets’, demonic curses, dogs and even children to mark their pages.
Fashion is fun and challenging. It tells the world what mood you’re in, who you are and even who you want to be. Discovering a label that mirrors your passion for style and helps you evolve not only illuminates your wardrobe but adds an edge to every ensemble. Charles & Keith is a supermodel’s secret that is making its way to the UK – and here’s what you need to know.
The brand, beloved by likes of Hailey Bieber, Xiao Wen Ju and Gigi Hadid, has been spotted on models and celebrities alike on the front row around the world. Whether it’s a pop of colour with cobalt blue mules or a stylish mini bag, it’s hard to believe it doesn’t require a mortgage-sized chunk of change to look that good. Charles & Keith is turning heads because not only is it chic and fashion-forward, it’s affordable too.
You can be on-trend each season by keeping an eye out for Charles & Keith and its brand new haul each week, as its renowned for spinning top trends into accessible fashion, with everything ranging from avante-garde accents to key wardrobe staples. It is a go-to to make sure your look is on point for every occasion and will have everyone asking for your style hints and tips.
Struggling to decide what to wear will fast become a thing of the past, as you will be able to complement your individual style with versatile accessories that will completely transform your look; whether it’s for a day in the city or a night on the town.
By next year, Charles & Keith’s Autumn campaign will be a favourite in every style-conscious woman’s wardrobe, owing to its distinctive pieces. The label is celebrating the contemporary collection, which is grounded in neutral hues, and its key items that will turn heads.
The Croc-Effect Sculptural Heel Ankle Bootsare statement heels that will allow you to step out in confidence, elevating a casual look or even helping you nail power dressing. The Studded Pointed Slingbacks, meanwhile, are a season must-have and come in a range of colours adding an edge to any look. The Croc-Effect Chunky Chain Handle Mini Bag is Hailey Bieber’s favourite from the collection tying in the season’s trends, with its cute size as well its standout chain.
But if you’re keen for something that will fit all of your essentials, whether it’s for a day at work or if you’re out with friends, the Croc-Effect Semi-Circle Crossbody Bag is the one for you. Team it with these Pointed Toe Wedge Heel Mules, for those who like turning heads with something a little different. These statement shoes come in a range of hues, including our favourite, muted pink.
Here’s a few of our favourite picks for this season:
You’ll step out with confidence, navigating the streets in these cool slingbacks. The gold touch on the heel gives it vintage appeal and they’ll soon become a go-to in your wardrobe.
We know why this is Hailey’s favourite. The cute size will certainly draw attention, but its chunky chain in the same neutral tones definitely adds a luxe layer.
Nicola Astles-Jones with daughter Orla and son Tristan (Picture: Nicola Astles-Jones)
Orla Astles-Jones, 12, has always loved guinea pigs, gymnastics and dancing. She dreams of being a dancer and vet.
But when she was diagnosed with scoliosis and kyphosis, her dreams came to a sudden halt.
Orla, from Reading, was diagnosed with scoliosis – which causes the spine to twist and curve to the side – and kyphosis after complaining of pain in her lower back.
She had always been active, so her mum, Nicola, assumed her daughter was just feeling a bit sore from her sports.
Nicola, an HR manager, tells Metro.co.uk: ‘She was the kid that would always clear up at sports day. That was always a very happy day for us at primary school.’
During Orla’s first term at secondary school she went to her GP about the pain, and was then referred to the Royal Berkshire Hospital and then Nuffield Orthopaedic hospital in Oxford. There, she was told that she had idiopathic thoracic scoliosis and kyphosis – in simple terms, a hunch back and progressive curvature of the spine.
Orla is still growing, and so her spine is getting worse rapidly. Initially her spinal curve measured 57 degrees. Now it’s over 70 degrees.
The curve of Orla’s spine and the pain it causes means she’s had to quit both dance and gymnastics.
Orla has severe scoliosis, and it’s getting worse (Picture: Nicola Astles-Jones)
On the NHS, the 12-year-old’s only option is fusion, which involves making separate vertebrae into one block. For Orla, this would mean making 13 of her vertebrae into one section of bone – more than half of her movable joints. With this treatment her spine would be straight, but she would never be able to return to gymnastics.
Fusion would also result in restricted growth of Orla’s spine while the rest of her body grows normally. Measuring just 139cm and 29 kilos, this is, as her mum puts it, a ‘huge problem’.
Doctors typically wait for a patient to finish growing before performing fusion, but as Orla’s scoliosis is so aggressive, they can’t afford to put off treatment.
Presented with fusion as the only option, Nicola did some research to work out if there was any other way to rectify Orla’s spine without killing her dreams.
Orla with the family dog, Buddy (Picture: Nicola Astles-Jones)
Nicola found out about VBT, a surgery that essentially provides an internal back brace, supporting spinal growth and correcting the spine’s position.
VBT is a major surgery, involving the deflation of a lung and potential removal of ribs – but it would allow Orla to grow normally and continue with her love for dance and gymnastics.
Unfortunately, VBT is expensive and not currently available on the NHS.
Orla was accepted to an international children’s hospital in Philadelphia for a VBT trial, but was eventually considered too severe for the treatment. VBT was also offered as part of an NHS trial at St George’s Hospital for less than two years, but sadly the funding was pulled.
Orla’s spine (Picture: Nicola Astles-Jones)
The doctor behind this trial has been able to give Nicola a quote for performing surgery privately: £43,212.
That isn’t possible for the family to afford, so Nicola has started a GoFundMe to raise the money needed to fix Orla’s fine and give her a chance at a happy, healthy life.
‘Orla has an energy that is hard to match,’ says Nicola. ‘But it’s been tested over the last 12 months.
‘She was diagnosed by the GP just five days after we switched off the life support machine to my brother, who took his own life. He lived for a week in intensive care; life doesn’t get much harder than that, I hope.
Nicola is raising money to get Orla the surgery she needs to keep dancing (Picture: Nicola Astles-Jones)
‘She was incredibly close to him and was brave enough to go to the hospital in Tunbridge wells to say goodbye to her uncle in ICU. At first, she didn’t want to talk about it and I wasn’t really in a place to deal with it.’
Orla’s scoliosis means she’s often in pain and can’t do all the activities she loves. Even sitting at a desk at school is hard, and Orla has had to miss days due to pain.
Nicola tells us: ‘She wants to be active but pays the price afterward. She doesn’t want to be left out.
Surgery is the only way Orla will be able to keep growing and stay flexible enough for gymnastics (Picture: Nicola Astles-Jones)
‘Fusion would stop the curve and straighten her hunchback but it would also mean she would be lucky to get to 5ft tall and would certainly never go back to gymnastics.’
For now Orla has regular physiotherapy and has had to stop dancing, but urgently needs to fund her surgery before her condition gets worse.
So far a friend has run an ultra-marathon to raise money, while others have helped out with cake sales, school fundraisers, and a three-day cycle across the French alps – but the family still has a long way to go.
‘It’s hard to say you need help and I was reluctant,’ says Nicola, ‘but it seems crowdfunding is the future.
‘Orla desperately wants to get back to dancing, and she dreams of being a vet.’
Will you watch a film at Selfridges? (Picture: Getty)
Ever been wandering around, looking at designer clothes and fancy makeup, and desperately fancied watching a film?
Well, no longer shall you have to stop your shopping and schlep to the nearest cinema, for Selfridges will soon open their very own movie theatre, right inside their flagship store on London’s Oxford Street.
The cinema will have three screens, two with 80 seats and one with 30, and will be operated by Olympic Studios.
There will be an entrance directly from the store as well as one from Duke Street, so you can pop in on a browse around central or midway through your posh shopping trip. The cinema will also have a private screening room and an underground bar. Fancy.
Opening in November, the venue will be showing new releases including Frozen 2 and Le Mans 66 as well as independent features. So it’s just like any other cinema, except it’s in a Selfridges, so it’s likely to be quite luxe.
Selfridges Managing Director Simon Forstrer said: ‘We are delighted to announce the launch of our very own Selfridges cinema within our London Oxford Street store later this year.
‘For us this is a very exciting yet natural extension to what Selfridges does, which is to provide customers with an extraordinary experience all year round.’
We’ve asked the Selfridges team for more details, namely the price of cinema tickets and information about their popcorn offering, and will update this article when we hear back.
Until then, mark November in your diary, as that’s when The Cinema at Selfridges will be opening. Prepare for many dates to take place at this location.
The meal also comes with a wedge of lime. (Picture: IKEA)
IKEA has faced a barrage of online backlash over a dish that it called jerk chicken with ‘rice and peas’, after an image of the meal went viral on social media.
The Swedish furniture company made a grave, grave error in its creation of the classic Caribbean dish by completely misinterpreting what authentic rice and peas actually consists of.
But, following backlash, the company has apologised and is now ‘re-looking’ at the recipe.
The recipe included half a chicken slathered in jerk seasoning – so far, so good. But the ‘rice and peas’ included with the meat was not what anyone familiar with the original dish would expect. That’s right – the chicken came with white rice and garden peas.
Rice and peas that is traditionally served with jerk chicken is generally understood to be rice cooked with kidney beans, coconut milk, spring onions, garlic and thyme. And although recipes vary, garden peas never come into the equation.
People on Twitter were quick to express their mortal outrage after one customer posted a photo of the meal with the caption: ‘This is IKEA’s jerk chicken and rice and peas and no I’m not eating it.’
‘The chicken don’t look bad. But the literal rice and peas is killing my soul,’ said one critic.
‘Chicken looks halfway decent here, but that rice looks like it just got taken off life support. No bueno,’ added another.
‘They should’ve done their research first lool,’ said someone else.
This isn’t the first time a brand has come under fire for butchering this classic dish. Jamie Oliver was famously slammed for his packets of instant ‘jerk rice’ – which elicited anger but also confusion as combining jerk sauce with rice is not a Caribbean tradition.
IKEA’s mistake, as well as being both hilarious and tragic, has a more serious edge – with some accusing the company of ‘cultural appropriation’ and exploitative marketing.
Jerk chicken with white rice and green peas? Can people stop bastardising traditional dishes please? pic.twitter.com/pqWgEsQMZZ
What really gets on people’s nerves is when companies make money from Caribbean culture without consulting anyone Caribbean in the process – which appears to be what has happened with this latest IKEA controversy.
‘We’re aware that our new jerk chicken, served with rice and peas has created some conversation and in some cases offence,’ Lorena Lourido, Country Food Manager, IKEA UK and Ireland told Metro.co.uk.
‘Our intention was to create a dish for many people to enjoy but we appreciate that we may have got it wrong. We apologise and we are now re-looking at the dish.’
This might appease some of the critics, but some people are seriously unhappy with the company.
‘IKEA got the nerve to put green peas in a Jamaican rice and peas recipe. I’m fuming!!!’ raged one.
‘This is annoying. They love our food, music, culture but then try and deport our elders in #windrush,’ said another.
You could be paid £22,414 to set up shop in a picturesque mountain village in Italy. (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
There are some parts of the world that never cease to stop climbing in population.
The population for London alone has increased by around 650,000 since 2011, which is twice the rate of the entire UK’s population growth.
Not every city enjoys such staggering demand. Spare a thought for Molise, a region in southern Italy that wants to increase its population so badly, they’ll pay you to live there.
Instead of forking out £850 a month for a room in a grisly London flat, you could be paid €25,200 (£22,414) to set up shop in a picturesque mountain village.
Molise is a region known for its rolling peaks, locally produced cheeses and ancient Christmas festivals. It also happens to have a population far lower than the national average.
Pretty, right? (Picture: Getty)
According to the Italian National Institute of Statistics, more than 9,000 people have left the region since 2014. In 2018, no births were registered in nine Molise towns.
In a bid to bring more life and culture to the region, the Molise government has devised a plan to attract new residents.
Donato Toma, the president of Molise, announced that newcomers would receive €700 (£622) per month, for three years, to live in the area. But it’s not that simple.
The town must have a population of fewer than 2,000 people and the newcomer must open a business.
‘They can open any sort of activity: a bread shop, a stationery shop, a restaurant, anything. It’s a way to breathe life into our towns while also increasing the population,’ Donato told the Guardian.
You’ll also need to improve your Italian language skills.
The offer comes after a string of other Italian regions were trying to increase their population by selling homes for less than £1.
The Yeezy Foam Runner has just been announced (Picture: Yeezy Mafia)
Big-toe heels barely had their day in the sun when Kanye West’s freaky new footwear trotted into frame.
The newest Yeezy shoe was revealed on Twitter last night, and we can’t decide what’s more obnoxious, the curious aesthetic of the shoe or the caption simply reading: ‘Disruptive’.
The all-white shoe is called the Yeezy Foam Runner. It’s part of the Yeezy brand, yeah. It’s foamy, sure. We’re just not sure there will be any kind of running done in this spooky little shoe.
Naturally, the comparisons to Crocs have been pouring in hard and fast.
True crocs: Affordable Easily customizable Adjustable strap for sport or leisure mode 10/10
Yeezy crocs: Super expensive Weird diamond shape Probably can’t even fit jibbitz smh Terrible idea, 2/10 pic.twitter.com/m7Bqjrv03z
While North West was spotted wearing a pair back in June, the shoes won’t be released until 2020, giving the public plenty of time to warm up to the futuristic trend.
According to the Yeezy Mafia website, the shoe will be available at ‘a very affordable price point’. As the Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 v2 is still retailing for upwards of £350, we might just wait and see about that.
Liverpool has music in its very heart of culture, so when Jimmy’s recently opened in Liverpool, it made the perfect addition to the city’s music scene
As a born-and-bred Scouser it pains me when I see travel guides to my home city of Liverpool.
Most listicles to the northern gem are full of the stuff locals don’t actually do – and they’re often overpriced, charmless, overrated and touristy spots.
The fact Liverpool was voted as Best City for Students at the Student Choice Awards is no coincidence.
It proves not only that Liverpool really is the best city in the country, but that it’s not just Scousers who love Liverpool. People who come from all over the country (and beyond) love it too.
Watered down or half-hearted travel guides on the cliched stuff you can Google yourself are the worst, so here I present to you an up-to-date, authentic and no BS guide to the very best of Liverpool.
If you’re a first year student and want a slice of real Liverpool living or if you’re planning the perfect Scouse staycation this autumn and need local’s tips, read on…
Where to eat in Liverpool
Best steak in Liverpool:
Cowshed
This place is one of the most well-thought and clever restaurants in Liverpool. The super stripped back, simple menu hosts a collection of the finest and most delicious steak cuts and creative sides to accompany.
Cowshed restaurant has led a rise in quality of the food scene in Liverpool
Finding a classy steak restaurant can be a tough feat but this cosy and intimate joint knocks the other often greasy and chain-feely steakhouse-esque restaurants out of the park.
The food scene in Liverpool over the last five years in particular, has really become something really quite special and unique, and Cowshed is a huge reason for that.
Best pizza in Liverpool:
Little Furnace
My friend has a rule that she will only ever just get what the special is here. It’s a great rule to live by every time you visit Little Furnace, as after trying them out you won’t ever want to eat pizza from anywhere else again. Serving up authentic Neapolitan Wood-Fired pizzas, cooked in under 90 seconds and priced at around a tenner each, it’s easy to see why Little Furnace has built such a cult following in the short time it’s been around. This gem located on Smithdown Road has only a handful of tables, but with the super fresh pizzas cooked to perfection so quickly, customers come and go at such a pace that you’re never waiting long to be seated. Not a tourist in sight.
Best bottomless brunch in Liverpool:
East River
It’s hard to believe this restaurant has been around for less than a year. Already a local’s favourite, it’s brought the Allerton Road food scene back to life with its interesting, tasty small plates and yummy cocktails. Its concept and reality of their signature bottomless bagel brunch is nothing short of a Sunday brunch dream.
Best tasting menu in Liverpool:
Roski
Give this place a Michelin star already. Seriously. This place deserves all their praise and flory – that’s a cross between flattery and glory. This is hands down the greatest tasting menu in Liverpool. Anton Piotrowski and his team keep their menu fresh as they change it up regularly, making the experience different each time you go.
Anton – who won Masterchef: The Professionals in 2014 – proves exactly why it’s the ultimate treat place to go to when you’re in the city. This place was a game changer for Liverpool and us locals are forever grateful for the masterful culinary delights you give us.
Oh, and order the carrot cake, and the steak and er, well, just about everything, because it’s uh-mazing. My fellow scouse friend who has dined just about everywhere in the UK, described this dining experience as one of his ‘top 10 life experiences’. I couldn’t agree with that sentiment more.
Best burgers in Liverpool:
Free State Kitchen
This burger joint has a surprisingly big secret garden that’s definitely worth checking out. Burgers and cream soda in the sun? Yes please!
What to do in Liverpool
Duke Street Market
Duke Street Market is a proper market. When I say ‘proper market’, we’re not just talking about a street food market stuck in the year of 2012, who’ll shamelessly rip you off charging £8.00 for a few measly hallomui fries. Nope, this is the type of market that makes you realise why you loved food markets so much in the first place.
Highlights not to be missed include the restaurant, Pilgrim who take you on a culinary adventure through different countries – they change up their mission a lot to keep things interesting.
Food at Pilgrim at Duke Street
Cinder is also a winner. Get the grilled strawberries, just do it, although you’ll probably never be able to go back and enjoy a strawberry in the same way again, so be warned…
Summer Market Brunch Leaf
On July 21st, you can experience the ultimate summer market brunch hosted at one of Liverpool’s most beloved coffee shops. There will be craft stallholders, live music and all things brunch. Best thing about the event, it’s free entry, however booking is advised. Head down between 12-4pm to enjoy. Also at this venue is Liverpool’s original and greatest pudding club, where guests enjoy a five course dessert menu, paired with their famous loose leaf blends. Their July Pudding Club is on the 30th this month.
Oh Me Oh My’s Roof Garden
Experience one of the city’s most stunning venues, complete with its breathtaking roof garden view of the Liverpool’s skyline.
The secret roof garden is called Goodness Gracious and you’ll understand when you experience it.
Goodness Gracious Roof Garden
It feels like you’re in touching distance of the famous Liver Buildings.
It’s hands down Liverpool’s favourite sky garden, complete with its own outside bar, music and comfy seating, there’s a reason the locals don’t tell tourists about this gem of a place.
This spot also does the funnest ‘brunch and ballroom’ events where after brunch you can get taught ballroom by a Strictly expert.
Oh Me Oh My rooftop yoga at Goodness Gracious
Yoga Brunch at One Fine Day
A yoga brunch always has the potential to be naff and overpriced. However, this one in One Fine Day has got utter soul and is well worth your pennies.
Hosted in the beautiful One Fine Day venue on the last Sunday of every month, you can feast and flow your way through the last Sunday of the month in their tranquil events space.
Your one hour yoga practice is followed by a mindful menu of nutritional brunch options and healthy juices.
It’s 11am – 1pm and £20 per person. All abilities welcome and the only request is that you bring your own own mat.
Reel tours
Being the history and film geek I am, this is a personal favourite of mine and fellow film lovers all over. As Liverpool is the most filmed in city in Britain after London, this is the most wonderful tour to not only take in the iconic sights of Liverpool, but experience a taste of the magical dizzy heights of some of the greatest movie moments.
The city was first captured on film in 1897 and over the years it has been home to productions such as Harry Potter, Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them, Captain America: The First Avenger, Fast & Furious 6, Yesterday and Film Stars Don’t Die In Liverpool. The tour is a bargain at £15.
Where to stay on your Liverpool staycation
Hope Street Hotel
Hope Street Hotel is the city’s sweetest and most elegant boutique hotel in the city. It sits in the heart of Liverpool’s Georgian quarter – just ten minutes walk from the city centre – where it holds its own amongst the stunning architecture of the area. Although, inside the tranquil hotel you feel like you could be any where. It’s shut off from the busy hustle and bustle of city living, and as soon as you step foot into the charming hotel, it’ll be difficult to actually want to leave to see Liverpool.
The rooms attention to detail is everything a boutique hotel should hold. On the ground floor of the hotel, you’ll find the award-winning London Carriageworks restaurant to match the award-winning standard of their hotel, serving modern international cuisine within an airy, exposed-brick dining room. You can indulge in their delicious food before choosing a glass from their impressive wine collection to take back to your room.
Titanic Hotel
This has the wow factor. If you want to stay in a hotel with a slice of Liverpool history, the Titanic hotel that’s on the docks. The grand hotel has a gorgeous spa to unwind in. This is your best port of call if you love spacious, and I mean seriously spacious, hotel rooms. You can’t help but feel like you’re in a Hollywood movie when you wander up and down the lobby.
Moor Hall Hotel
There’s a reason why this restaurant with rooms was voted The Best Restaurant of the Year by the public. Last month it was announced that the Lancashire-based Moor Hall was crowned the greatest restaurant in the UK.
A narrative that has become as old as time; it’s been preached that the South of England supposedly does everything better, including the craftsmanship when it comes to the subject of food and service. This win wasn’t just a truly well deserved win for Mark and his powerhouse team, but a triumph for the whole food scene in the North.
They certainly live up to their title. It is every bit as magical and dreamlike as the hype bigs up. From their cheese room to their pre-tasting menu snacks that leave you feeling giddy, this gem of a place deserves every bit of recognition.
The experience guests have start to finish there is unpretentious but met with sheer class, excellence and thoughtfulness of service, food, decor and style. Every part of Mark’s vision leaves you feeling inspired.
Places to get merry and go dancing in Liverpool
Ropes and Twines
This spot combines a common love for most people: coffee and wine. The shop is open in the day as well as the evening, with live piano music every day, artists who also take requests. If you’re lucky enough to go in on the day guitarist Danny Bradley is playing, you’re in for a treat too.
The staff are happy for you to try sample of wine before you commit to your chosen glass or bottle, making the experience a relaxed and fun one. As well as a selection of fresh cakes and muffins to complement your coffee, Ropes and Twines also serves up cheese and charcuterie boards to munch on with your wine.
Brooklyn Mixer
You can expect a lot of Mariah Carey Heartbreaker and Will Smith Miami. This is one of Liverpool’s most fun and unpretentious night clubs to dance in. The DJ actually listens and accepts your requests too. Revolutionary!
Motel karaoke
This snazzy little place hosts ‘Dive Bar Karaoke’ every Thursday evening 10.30pm-2am, as well as serving up amazing cocktails. It’s fun, loud and it’ll have the even the shyest person in the group belting out Natalie Imbruglia’s Torn by 11pm.
Jimmy’s bar
Liverpool has music in its very heart of culture, so when Jimmy’s recently opened in Liverpool, it made the perfect addition to the city’s music scene. The rocky music venue champions both fresh, up-and-coming talent locally and artists from all over the UK, hosting an inclusive mix of familiar and exciting new talent.
It also faces opposite Liverpool’s iconic bombed out church which looks beautiful at night, so you’re getting some serious Scouse culture coming in from all angles.
When I got to college aged 16 it seemed like everyone was comfortable discussing the ins and outs of sex and relationships.
Then there was me. Secretly, the idea of having a sexual relationship freaked me out, which made me not only feel like I was weird but that I was the odd one out from my friends.
So I did what everyone does when they have a problem they don’t know how to solve – I googled it. Discovering I was demisexual through a Google search wasn’t ideal, but that’s exactly how it happened.
A demisexual is someone who doesn’t feel sexually attracted to other people unless they have formed an emotional bond with someone first. When I meet someone, I initially won’t have any sexual desire for them at all, no matter what.
If I have an emotional connection with someone, sexual attraction might come later – but nothing is guaranteed.
Gradually, I started opening up to people about my demisexuality, beginning with the people I trusted most: my best friend, my girlfriend at the time and my parents.
Reactions were mixed. My best friend (who has since come out as asexual) was accepting. My parents were confused but eventually came round. It was only my girlfriend who didn’t make an effort to understand – or at least she didn’t seem to. Regrettably, we eventually broke up.
While I was grateful for my friend’s reaction, I still knew nobody I could truly relate to. At the last known count, people on the asexual spectrum made up around 1 per cent of the UK population and I would say demisexuality sits somewhere in the middle of that, although there is some debate.
It didn’t help that I lived in a fairly rural village for the majority of my life. It was only the escape of going to university that helped me begin to understand my sexuality myself.
Meeting people like me made me realise that I wasn’t weird – well, I was, but in a good way, rather than feeling so alone. At last I was around people who understood the world of love and relationships from a similar point of view to me.
And while university was a very positive experience, it was not without its difficulties.
I am aware that not everyone will be able to accept my sexuality (Picture: Robert Mooney)
On numerous occasions, I was referred to as a ‘plant’ – a common insult to those on the asexual spectrum given that plants themselves can asexually reproduce. It was an attack on a really personal part of my life but I found I could shake it off – I saw that choice of language as a sign of immaturity and I’d much prefer it if people simply educated themselves on different sexual identities.
These days, I am back in the village I grew up in and it’s hard to find someone who will accept me for being me, especially in the context of a relationship.
My ideal partner doesn’t need to be demisexual themselves but I would feel more comfortable if they were on the asexual spectrum, or understood it at the very least.
Online dating doesn’t work for me because I can’t get a sense of a person just through messages, and this can be confusing for potential partners making getting to know each other even harder.
In previous situations, it has been tough to have conversations about boundaries and what we are each comfortable with – I can’t just have a straight forward conversation about it. On a couple of occasions the other person had to force the issue which led to the relationship breaking down.
Of course, this is difficult to navigate but discussing boundaries around sex and relationships is awkward for all of us.
I am aware that not everyone will be able to accept my sexuality, considering that it could be classed as ‘weird’ in comparison to the majority of the population. My ex-girlfriend’s response means I am still apprehensive about getting into a relationship with just anyone. If it’s happened before, it can happen again.
Yet I remain hopeful that there are women who are attracted to the idea of dating a demisexual man.
To me, true love means being willing to accept things about the other person that we may not completely understand.
It happens when both people respect the pace a relationship is moving at, when they keep the lines of communication open and try their best to understand and support the other’s issues. This has to be as close to true love as you can get.
I am now just looking for someone who will accept my demisexuality, talk about it openly and who is willing to be with me as I continue discovering what I am comfortable with.
I think I will just be able to tell when I find them. If they are considerate and try to understand, they may be for me. Perhaps I’ll never be entirely sure.
Love, Or Something Like It is a new series for Metro.co.uk, covering everything from mating and dating to lust and loss, to find out what love is and how to find it in the present day.
Christmas dinner at the Hogwarts Great Hall (Picture: Warner Bros)
It’s much too soon to be discussing Christmas, but you might just make an exception for this Harry Potter-related PSA.
The boy who lived is set to spread some festive cheer with this year’s Yule Ball.
From 16 November 2019, the Great Hall at Harry Potter Studios will be a winter wonderland of glimmering snow and crackling fireplaces. Between 9 to 11 December, you’ll even be able to get a piece of the pie.
Potterheads will descend upon the Great Hall to feast on delicious drinks and canapés, followed by a hearty two-course Christmas dinner.
After the spread, you can wander over to the Studio Tour, and check out the sets including the Gryffindor common room and the Weasley kitchen. A range of desserts will be served at the iconic Platform 9 ¾, before you board the Hogwarts Express.
Fans enjoy food on the studio tour (Picture: Warner Bros. Studio Tour London)
The event will commence at 6pm and finish up at around midnight.
While it seems like a dream for the kids, the event is only open to over 18s. Tickets go on sale at 10am on 17 September, costing £240pp.
The Hogwarts Yule Ball is coming soon… (Picture: Warner Bros. Studio Tour London)
Now for some other Harry Potter news to warm the heart.
Maryland ninth grade teacher Staci Lamb has just transformed her classroom into a Hogwarts wonderland of her own.
The English teacher plastered the walls with brick wallpaper, added wooden furniture and even set up a Mirror of Erised.
We just need to fully embrace our inner solitude and realise that doing things solo is a fulfilling act of self care ((Picture: Ella Byworth/ Metro.co.uk)
If I had £1 for every time someone asks me who I am going to the cinema or dinner with, I’m pretty sure I’d be able to save the NHS.
Why can’t people do things by themselves without being judged?
As someone who will happily do pretty much any activity by myself, there comes a point where we just need to fully embrace our inner solitude and realise that doing things solo is a fulfilling act of self care.
I’m someone who believes I have won the National Lottery every time an invoice is paid, and then act like it, taking myself out for dinner approximately 34 times a week.
It doesn’t have to be fancy, just a nice outing on my own. A cocktail and far too much food alongside an empty chair is truly my idea of bliss.
Yet I am often greeted by staff that can’t contemplate that I am there on my own. Throughout the meal I’ll be asked if someone else is joining me. When I share that it’s just a table for one, I’m faced with a raised eyebrow, mild pity and offered a large glass of wine.
Rude but valid. In a world that constantly asks us to partake in social orgies of small talk, I can’t think of anything better than nursing a Chardonnay whilst thinking about what I’ll catch up on from iPlayer when I get into bed.
From face masks to therapy, we’re bombarded with self-care tips and information on how to become more aligned with ourselves and take care of our minds and bodies. Yet sometimes it really is as simple as cancelling plans and spending a weekend alone.
There’s a precedent that people who do this are either a) lonely or b) anti-social and truth be told sometimes yes, I am both. However, reserving time for yourself doesn’t mean that you hate everyone around you.
Too much food alongside an empty chair is truly my idea of bliss (Picture: Ella Byworth for Metro.co.uk)
It means that you value your own time and appreciate that in this rollercoaster world, we need to check in with ourselves more than ever.
One of my favourite solo activities is taking mini-breaks and holidays. The best part is chatting with my friends, who also enjoy holidaying solo, about where we’re going, when and what Airbnbs we think are the most fancy for our R&R.
I went to Brighton for three nights a few months ago on my own and I genuinely class it as one of the highlights of my last decade.
Exploring and being on my own time schedule, out of the hustle and bustle of work and constantly being a fashion goddess, felt so good.
Doing this without having to worry about other people was bliss. Being positively selfish is something we are told to never be and I for one think that’s the worst advice possible.
Be selfish – your time is precious and easily wasted on people that don’t care about you, or events that aren’t fulfilling you. They just leave you with a random goody-bag full of nonsense.
Obviously, I like spending time with other people but I can’t wait to live on my own in the near future and have my own space. So I only spend time with people that I know are nourishing me and we mutually supply each other with positive and pleasant energy. It helps me feel like I have autonomy over my life.
Social media, combined with our work colleagues and ever-growing friendship groups, means that we are practically being berated for not being sociable all the time, but that’s not practical.
Some people don’t like going out after 9pm with a large group of people and that’s fine. It’s also fine if that’s your version of fun, you rock and roll.
There’s something people can’t understand about the fact I am 22 and don’t want to go to clubs every day of my life, to drink watered-down drinks and bop to the UK music charts.
It’s time that us unsociable, lovely, normal solo-ites flourish and stop feeling bad for wanting to go out into this world on our own.
To all the wonderful people reading this whilst tucking into a three-course meal in their own company, I salute you – and definitely get that extra glass of wine, babes.
Can you ‘cure’ anxiety? (Picture: Ella Byworth for Metro.co.uk)
While there’s an abundance of techniques you can try to instantly calm the anxiety that you’re feeling during your most panicked moments, what can you expect long term? Can anxiety ever be ‘cured’ or totally overcome?
As much as research tells us right now, while anxiety may eventually be overcome by some people, for many others it’s more a case of accepting it, managing it, and working with yourself to find ways to lessen or ease it.
Wrestling with your own thoughts is never easy and even recognising that your thought patterns need to change is phenomenal. A lot of people would rather not go on a journey through their own mind, and instead find it easier to just try to cut out what’s making them anxious in the first place (if they can even identify it… anxiety sounds hella fun).
Counsellor Tasnima Kemali assures us that this is a totally natural and logical response, but it’s not all that helpful in the long term.
Tasnima tells us: ‘To ‘get rid’ of anxiety, a typical behavioural response to shake feeling the anxiety again is to avoid dealing with the trigger, e.g. if you suffer social anxiety – you might want to stay home and avoid meeting new people (trigger).
‘This stems from your innate survival thinking, you’re trying to protect yourself, however it can lead to an avoidance of never understanding why you think and feel this way.
‘An avoidance of situations isn’t sustainable or ideal for those of us who want to experience and enjoy life and not be crippled by the depths of anxiety.’
Tasmina has years of experience helping people work through their anxiety (and y’know, professional qualifications) and of course recognises that truly reflecting on your anxious experiences can be daunting, but encourages anyone with anxiety to do just that.
‘Appreciate your anxiety because it flared up for a reason,’ she says. ‘Sometimes these reasons don’t make sense to you and can get out of hand, but sit with the anxiety in the moment and reflect on what you’re thinking and feeling.
‘This too shall pass. You can also seek professional help – it’s what we’re here for.’
Robyn Henderson found that medication helped to ease her anxiety at first, but like a lot of people, eventually concluded it would be best used as a short-term fix.
‘I was on an SSRI called Citalopram for a few years when I was at my most unwell with GAD,’ she tells Metro.co.uk. ‘The medication completely removed the feeling of anxiety for a good while – which was amazing. However, there were side effects, and long term I didn’t want it to be the solution.
‘Once I stopped taking the meds, I was aware of a responsibility to myself to look after my own mental health. I upped my exercise (now five times a week) and I tried CBT over the phone, which I found worked well, but it requires you to practice the techniques and identify where your unhelpful thinking is coming from. It gave me a good few tools to help rationalise some of my unhelpful thoughts.’
Amelia-Eve Warden, who was diagnosed with Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) six years ago, has found a few more natural techniques to help her manage her anxiety over time.
She says: ‘As morbid as it may sound, and as a sufferer, I don’t believe GAD can be cured. Instead you need to figure out how to make anxiety something livable without disrupting your life.
‘My anxiety comes in waves and usually is heightened when things that make me uneasy (known as triggers) are in full swing.
‘I have used medication prescribed by GPs, I have tried meditation, yoga, breathing exercises and many different coping mechanisms to make this disorder something I have control of, not it controlling me.
‘I’ve found CBD oil to be the most productive and useful way to ease my anxiety, particularly in the mornings. I put a few drops under my tongue every day and within 30 minutes my panic is totally eased, and the commute on the London underground doesn’t seem so scary.’
There are many things you can try to help manage your anxiety, and they may well lead to it eventually dissolving out of your life.
In the meantime, however, it’s best to acknowledge that you have it, address how it affects you, and find small but meaningful ways to deal with it. You’re not doomed to struggle with anxiety for the rest of your waking moments, but, equally, there’s no way to prevent yourself from ever feeling rubbish again. That’s why having coping techniques is essential.
Vegan noms that won’t hurt the planet (Picture Credit: Selfridges)
Ima, a family run plant-based brand has just launched its own vegan sushi range at swanky London department store, Selfridges.
So it’s just full of cucumbers then? Wrong! All the rolls currently offered in the Food Hall are stacked full of vegan duck, crab, tuna and get this, salmon.
Of course, none of it is actual meat or fish (the salmon is made from a super special Asian root veg called Konjac), but it looks and tastes just as good.
The current menu, which rotates monthly, will set you back £6.99 for a set and in addition to everything we mentioned earlier, includes a Katsu Tempeh Beetroot burrito, Tofu firecracker rice sushi and avocado (obviously) and fresh veg black rice rolls.
The best part is that the entire range preaches a staunch sustainability ethos too.
All the vegan sushi you see on the shelves is packaged in 100% biodegradable packaging because, as Ima says, 640,000 tonnes of ghost gear (abandoned fishing equipment like nets) is thrown into the oceans every year.
In percentage terms, that means those usual non-environmentally friendly plastic film tray account for roughly 46% of all the plastic waste that ends up in the deep blue sea.
The addition of Ima into the foodie hot spot joins a host of other brands a part of Selfridges ongoing sustainability campaign, Project Ocean.
Launched in 2011, the project is a long-term partnership with the Zoological society of London to help protect the planet’s oceans from the dangers of overfishing and plastic pollution.
So, looks like we’ll all be buying our lunch from here now.
Aneela McKenna loves mountain biking. High-adrenaline, two-wheel adventures make her feel on top of the world. But more than that, cycling is what helps Aneela cope with her husband’s MS diagnosis.
Aneela found sport as an adult and she appreciated it all the more having been unable to take part when she was younger because of difficulties at home.
‘My mum suffered from depression and chronic ill health after years of living with domestic abuse,’ explains Aneela. ‘She was brave enough to leave her abuser when I was nine years old, but she suffered in silence and continued to experience issues with her mental health.
‘I remember having to look after myself, dress myself, get myself to school and look after Mum. I didn’t have any aspirations, I was there to take care of my Mum and deal with the consequences of the abuse she experienced all those years from my father.’
It’s no wonder then that Aneela didn’t have the brain space to make sport a part of her life growing up. Like so many women, her school-age experiences of physical activity weren’t exactly inspiring.
‘I remember sport at school felt like a burden,’ she says. ‘I used to pretend that it was that “time of the month” frequently to just get out of gym class.
‘I was a right wee rebel because I was one of the few Asian kids in the school. I wanted to be the trouble maker – I wanted to be accepted. Deep down I was embarrassed because we didn’t have much money and I didn’t have a parent picking up me up the school gates after school every day.
‘My father discouraged the girls in the family to do any kind of sport. It wasn’t right for young Pakistani girls to be doing such things.’ (Picture: Aneela McKenna)
‘It was only when my mother passed away that I discovered my passion for sport.
‘I knew that I didn’t want the life my mum had, and she wouldn’t have wanted that for me either. I also knew that my mission in life would be to give others the opportunities that I didn’t have, particularly those going through hardship – and sport would be the avenue to achieve this.’
In her 20s, Aneela trained to be a fitness instructor and ran classes all over Glasgow for women from socially deprived backgrounds.
‘I loved seeing the difference in the women after a few sessions – feeling fitter and stronger and more confident in themselves. They were like me. They had limited aspirations and influences and it was amazing how much fitness changed their lives.
‘I gave that all up to pursue a career in diversity and inclusion, but by getting into mountain biking in the last few years, it has reminded me that I can share my passion with others. If we are fit and strong we will be confident and if we are confident we will be happy.’
Aneela never rode bikes as a kid. It was something her dad would never have approved of.
‘When my father was around he discouraged the girls in the family to do any kind of sport. It wasn’t right for young Pakistani girls to be doing such things,’ says Aneela.
‘My only recollection of riding a bike was getting a “backy” on my older brother’s chopper and it was so much fun!’
When Aneela met her husband Andy, he inspired her to start riding with him – meaning their meeting was the beginning of more than one kind of love affair.
‘I met Andy just after my mum passed away and our first date was a mountain bike ride in his local country park.
‘We didn’t want to face up to what was ahead of us and we carried on as normal for years until we realised we couldn’t live a lie anymore.’ (Picture: Aneela McKenna)
‘As I grew up in the city, I had never explored the countryside and I remember how beautiful it was to be outside in nature. He took me down some scary technical trails, I did it because I wanted to impress him – but inside I was terrified!
‘I persevered and what I enjoyed most of all was being in the outdoors, away from the city, and that feeling of being a tiny dot in these wild rugged landscapes.
‘I pushed myself to keep up with the boys (back then there were very few women to ride with) and soon I was riding through magical glens and mountain all over Scotland.’
Aneela’s husband Andy was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2008, but she says they were in denial for years – they just didn’t want their lives to change.
‘We didn’t want to face up to what was ahead of us and we carried on as normal for years until we realised we couldn’t live a lie anymore,’ says Aneela.
‘Andy’s health was deteriorating, and I was making excuses for him more and more. We realised we had to be honest with ourselves.’
The pair launched an online campaign – Stoked on MS – as a way to raise awareness and create a dialogue about alternative treatments, holistic lifestyle strategies and stories of hope.
Andy has even created a film called This Way Up which is all about coping with the diagnosis as a couple and connecting that journey to their love of mountain biking.
‘Our lives have changed so much in the last few years,’ says Aneela. ‘Andy follows the OMS 7 Steps to Recovery programme which include diet, exercise and meditation. I took the decision to join him in his journey and we would do it together.
‘Our diet is low in saturated fat, no dairy, no red meat and lots of fish and plant-based foods. The biggest change was cooking without oil and never could I have imagined that food good taste so good.
‘I was going through a healing process and making that journey on my bike gave me the confidence to confront what was going on.’ (Picture: Aneela McKenna)
‘Since then we haven’t looked back and, while Andy still has flare ups, he has developed such a positive attitude to deal with his condition. Together we have raised nearly £50,000 for Overcoming MS through his film and other projects he has led as part of his campaign.
‘Facing adversity in the way we have has created a stronger bond between us. We might do things a little differently to before – our rides might be a little shorter and less steep – but we have the most amazing life together.’
Mountain biking has vastly improved Aneela’s life. Not only has it given her focus and purpose in the face of her husband’s diagnosis, but it has also helped her through personal times of crisis.
‘In 2017 I was almost at breaking point after a year of feeling unhappy and depressed,’ Aneela tells us. ‘I had lost my way and had forgotten what I wanted from life. I remember crying, sitting at the edge of the bed, so unhappy with myself and I was pushing myself further down a deep black hole.
‘I went off sick for a few months and decided to take a career break to “find myself”. I decided to head off, just me and my bike, and travel on my own – something I had never done before.
‘I knew that I had to do something that pushed me out my comfort zone because I knew the effect that would have at the other end. I toured all over the Scottish islands on my bike for a month and it was the best thing I could have ever done.
‘I was going through a healing process and making that journey on my bike gave me the confidence to confront what was going on.’
Connecting with nature and spending a month focusing on nothing but herself and her sport helped Aneela get to the heart of what was causing her pain. She knew what she had to do to get back to herself.
‘I realised that I had forgotten all about myself,’ says Aneela. ‘I was focused on my husband because there were so many life changes that had to be made for Andy to get him in a place where he was able to cope with his MS.
‘I know this sounds cliched, but there was an awakening in me. I was doing so much for everyone else and not dealing with my own personal problems. My husband’s health had affected me – being a partner of someone who has MS, I was very focused on my husband and it was important for to stay strong and positive for him.
‘I h ave gone part time in my job to pursue my passion – which is to get more women to ride bikes.’ (Picture: Aneela McKenna)
‘I also realised that I was still carrying the burden of my mum all those years and that I had been angry and bitter. I couldn’t bear the thought of my mother having a short life because she was a victim of domestic abuse and as a consequence suffered metal health problems, isolation and depression.
‘I had been grieving all these years and I hadn’t let go.
‘Since that trip, my life has been the best it has ever been. My bond with Andy has never been as strong as it is today, I have gone part time in my job to pursue my passion – which is to get more women to ride bikes and to promote the benefits of what mountain biking can bring into everyday life.
‘I’ve made solo trips a regular feature in my life because they keep my head healthy.’
Aneela and Andy run a mountain biking tour company in Scotland, and Aneela wants to do everything she to help more women to get involved in the sport. Not least because she knows how it has transformed her own life so positively.
‘Mountain biking has given me so much,’ she says. ‘It keeps me fit, and it keeps me young at heart. It’s the only time when I switch off from the world of work and responsibilities and all you focus on is the trail ahead.
‘We are caught in this hamster wheel of life and we forget that if we want to move forward we need time to be in the moment to make that next step in life. Mountain biking helps build my resilience, which I bring into my everyday life.’
Mountain biking has become Aneela’s life. She rarely goes anywhere without her bike and she rides almost every other day. She’s even got rid of her car. It’s a far cry from the little girl who hated PE.
‘Be bold and get yourself out there don’t be afraid,’ says Aneela. ‘If fear gets in the way, find a way to challenge it and turn it into courage.
‘Once we’ve got that courage we can always pick ourselves up again when things don’t go the way we want them. That’s what I call a strong woman.’
Strong Women
Strong Women is a weekly series that champions diversity in the world of sport and fitness.
A Sport England study found that 40% of women were avoiding physical activity due to a fear of judgement.
But, contrary to the limited images we so often see, women of any age, size, race or ability can be active and enjoy sport and fitness.
We hope that by normalising diverse depictions of women who are fit, strong and love their bodies, we will empower all women to shed their self-consciousness when it comes to getting active.
Each week we talk to women who are redefining what it means to be strong and achieving incredible things.
Should you give your child a time-out? (Picture: Ella Byworth for Metro.co.uk)
Attention, parents: There’s no need to feel guilty for giving your child a time-out or asking them to sit on the thinking step.
That’s according to new research, anyway, which suggests there’s no harm done by giving misbehaving kids a time-out, either to the child’s mental wellbeing or to their relationship with their parents.
Researchers compared the emotional and behavioural health of children whose parents used time-outs versus those who didn’t, tracking them over eight years.
Children’s mental health, social skills, creativity, and feelings of positivity and negativity towards their parents were all tracked, along with any signs of depression, anxiety, aggression, rule-breaking behaviour, or difficulties with self control.
It turned out there was no difference between these two groups, which suggests that time-outs are a perfectly fine tool to use to discipline children.
Lead author and pediatric psychologist at the University of Michigan Rachel Knight said: ‘Some reports in the media and by select organisations have suggested that time-out is ineffective and even harmful.
‘There are some alarming claims that time-outs can damage the parent-child relationship and negatively affect emotional health. But the research simply doesn’t support those claims. We did not find a relationship between time-outs and negative side effects in children.
‘There’s a wealth of research on how effective time-outs can be in reducing problematic behavior when they are used appropriately. It’s a parenting strategy that’s often misunderstood and misused.’
That mention of appropriate use is key.
Knight explains that consistency, structure, and a calm demeanor are essential for effective and healthy time-outs. The expectations of a time-out need to be clearly defined and expressed to the child and must be fairly used.
If a child is given a time-out, they need to know why as well as how the process works. It should be clear beforehand that certain behaviours will result in a time-out of a specific length, and that afterwards the child can discuss what went wrong. Parents should introduce time-outs calmly, with no shouting or anger.
Knight also says it’s crucial to praise children’s good behaviour, rather than only mentioning when they’ve done something wrong.
When she was diagnosed with cancer, Rachel Perman didn’t think she’d get to see her youngest son turn five (Picture: Caters News)
A cancer survivor has recreated scenes from the Pixar movie Up with her son and grandparents to celebrate seeing her child turn five.
When Rachel Perman, 32, was diagnosed with thyroid cancer shortly after the birth of her twins, her greatest fear was that she wouldn’t see her children grow up.
In 2016 she was told she was cancer-free. And so when her son, Elijah, turned five, Rachel knew she wanted to celebrate in a special way.
She requested the help of her grandparents, Richard and Caroline Bain, both 90, to recreate Elijah’s favourite film.
The resulting photos are pretty adorable, showing Elijah posing as Russell in his scout uniform as his great-grandparents dressed up as Carl and Ellie Fredrickson, complete with a large bunch of colourful balloons.
When Elijah turned five, it was time to celebrate with an homage to his favourite film (Picture: Caters News)
Rachel, from Greeley, Colorado, said: ‘After being diagnosed with cancer, I was scared I wouldn’t make it to see Elijah turn five.
‘I was diagnosed with cancer when my eldest child was five years old and I was petrified that I wouldn’t be able to spend the same amount of time I had with her, with the twins.
Rachel’s grandparents, Richard and Caroline, happily posed for photos as Carl and Ellie (Picture: Caters News)
‘So for Elijah’s fifth birthday I wanted to celebrate for both him and I.
‘Elijah is very particular, he is borderline addicted to Up and has been for several years.
Cute, right? (Picture: Caters News)
‘It’s the only thing he draws and colours, the only books he wants to get at the library and the only toy he wanted when we were in Disney World last year.
‘So inviting his great grandparents was my idea and a surprise to him – he loved that they dressed up!
‘My grandparents were thrilled to participate and loved that I asked them. Grandpa even went to the thrift store to get the jacket and hose.’
Champagne served with a side of unicorn, anyone? (Picture: Journey)
Just when you thought London had already hit peak trend, another immersive dining experience is coming to the capital, and this time, it’s hitting Chelsea.
Major sells? A champagne vomiting unicorn and a food and drinks menu that hits all the corners of the world. Remember, this kind of stuff is totally 100% normal in west London.
Created by Lollipop (those lovely guys and gals who brought us that Breaking Bad-themed bar and the nude restaurant, Bunyadi) and set over three floors at the Chelsea Funhouse, the new experience will glide into the city – rainbows included – in October, 2019.
Surreal and random, yes it is, but the California girls-esque dining soiree promises to take punters on a debauched two-hour round-the-world adventure exploring the culinary delights of Asia’s Silk Road to the badass-ness of America’s Route 66.
Top notch noms from all around the world (Picture Journey)
Food? Expect a menu that includes everything from Punjabi spiced mussels, pan-fried seabass and an ultra posh smoked beetroot and horseradish mousse. Oh and there are vegan options, too.
Drink? All the booze, including lots of bubbles and boozy menus curated by Kestas Stirba, the former head bartender at Soho House, and there will be an appearance from Mr and Mrs Black Espresso Martini who will be bangin’ out some rather interesting twists on the very classic ‘dram.
The interiors are, as you guessed it, very Instagrammable. Think marble bars, twinkling trees, that boomerang-worthy unicorn, countless plants, lots of pink and some old school vintage booths to plonk your tushes in.
So Instagrammable it hurts (Credit: Journey)
Speaking of the concept, Seb Lyall, the CEO and Founder of Lollipop, the company behind the whole thing said: ‘At a time when the world is divided more than ever, I am excited to introduce different cultures through food and drinks to our community.’
‘With the popularity of home food delivery rising, we believe restaurants are no more just “eating houses” but also places to have a great night out with an amazing multi-faceted experience.” Seb added.
The whole thing sounds totally bonkers, but as it’s in London and it’s celebrating all the good things in the world, why the hell not?
