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Friends end up tinted green when fake tan goes hilariously wrong

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Pic by Caters News - (Pictured: Laura Denton and Rosie Berry, 29,) - A pair of friends have shared their hilarious fake tan faux-par where they were left looking like THE HULK. After being told that their first spray tans would leave them a slightly different colour, Laura Denton and Rosie Berry, 29, were shocked when they looked at themselves in the mirror. The duo visited a salon in Northallerton, North Yorkshire, hoping to return home a gorgeous glowing shade but instead were left looking dark brown and green. Hoping that the horrendous colour would come off in the wash, Laura and Rosie encountered an abundance of laughs whilst speeding to the car to return home. Eventually, after having a boiling hot shower or 45 minutes, the friends returned to their normal shade and complained to the salon immediately. SEE CATERS COPY.
Laura and Rosie before their tan fail (Picture: Caters News Agency)

If you’ve ever ended up with orange hands and stained bedsheets after attempting a subtle tan, take solace in the knowledge that you’re not alone.

We’ve all had fake tan mishaps.

But perhaps ours aren’t as bad as that of Laura Denton and Rosie Berry, who ended up a shade of greed after visiting a salon to get their glow on.

The friends visited a salon in Northallerton, North Yorkshire, hoping to return home with a gorgeous glow.

Instead they were left looking shades of dark brown and green.

The pair had to drive themselves home after the treatment, and encountered plenty of looks and laughs on their way.

Thankfully after a hot 45 minute shower, Laura and Rosie returned to their normal shade.

Following their complaint to the salon, it’s closed down.

‘We decided to treat ourselves to our first ever spray tan, and we were so excited,’ said Laura.

Pic by Caters News - (Pictured: L-R Rosie Berry and Laura Denton after their fail with the Fake Tan.) - A pair of friends have shared their hilarious fake tan faux-par where they were left looking like THE HULK. After being told that their first spray tans would leave them a slightly different colour, Laura Denton and Rosie Berry, 29, were shocked when they looked at themselves in the mirror. The duo visited a salon in Northallerton, North Yorkshire, hoping to return home a gorgeous glowing shade but instead were left looking dark brown and green. Hoping that the horrendous colour would come off in the wash, Laura and Rosie encountered an abundance of laughs whilst speeding to the car to return home. Eventually, after having a boiling hot shower or 45 minutes, the friends returned to their normal shade and complained to the salon immediately. SEE CATERS COPY.
Laura and Rosie after their spray tan (Picture: Caters News Agency)

‘The salon told us that they were going to be using a new brand of tan, and that it may leave our skin a slightly different colour but it would only be subtle.

‘When we got out of the tanning rooms we looked at each other, and it was definitely not a subtle colour.

‘I looked like a female Hulk – I was bright green, it was a shame it wasn’t Halloween and we weren’t dressing up.

‘Trying not to panic, me and Rosie, who was a dark shade of brown, linked arms and ran to the car so we could get home and shower.

‘But it took well over 45 minutes in a boiling hot shower to even start to get the tan off – but I wasn’t leaving getting out still green!’

Rosie said: ‘I was completely shocked when I looked in the mirror and realised how dark we had gone!

‘I am usually so pale so it was such a surprise to see myself.’

Luckily the pals are able to laugh at the situation, and don’t regret their experience as they’ll always have the hilarious memories.

It was a bit of a bummer to end up just as pale as they were before, mind you.

‘Eventually the tan did come off, and we were left as pasty as we were in the first place which was pretty gutting,’ said Laura.

‘Whenever I tell my friends about our fake tan nightmare, they think I’m being dramatic for effect.

‘But then when I show them the photo, they want to know which tan it was so they can avoid it – but they all think it’s hilarious.

‘After we complained to the salon, they offered us a free spray tan as compensation – but as you can imagine, we declined.

‘Now I use fake tan and apply it myself, and if I ever go for a spray tan I’m very cautious to make sure I won’t go green again!’

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You can now stay in an Airbnb made entirely from completely recycled materials

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Quentin Irvine built this four-bedroom home for his family in the western Victorian town of Beaufort, made from completely recyclable materials. Mr Irvine, who is a builder, also ensured that if the house was ever demolished, the materials could be reused PICS TAKEN WITH PERMISSION VIA MANAGING DIRECTOR Quentin Irvine PHOTOGRAPHER CREDIT Nick Granleese https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ogpk23wv34tzoni/AACfRBO3wIoDKcqmYr3ue2uTa?dl=0
(Picture: Nick Granleese)

If you’re keen to offset your carbon emissions while travelling down under, then you might want to consider staying at Quentin Irvine’s secluded Airbnb.

He’s built his four-bedroom home up using only completely recycled materials.

Situated in west Victoria, Australia, Quentin, a builder, has made sure that should the house ever be demolished, the materials can be reused.

The walls have been put together without glue and have been painted with natural paint, while the wall linings can all be composed as used to improve soil quality. And the use of natural products has the added benefit of improving the air quality inside the house.

The kitchen has been put together using recycled timber coated with natural oils and cement, steering clear of formaldehyde-free glues. Where possible, bits are screwed together rather than stuck.

‘Natural house finishes (i.e. natural paint, natural oil stains and minimal synthetic fibres) and natural cleaning products are used in the tall house making it a very low-tox environment,’ Quentin writes on the Airbnb listing.

But don’t go thinking that just because the house is made out of old material, that it doesn’t have all the mod cons.

It’s got a Bosch dishwasher and a wood heater, as well as loads of modern light fittings.

The listing continues: ‘As the house is designed with cross flow ventilation no air-conditioning is installed, however, extraction fans and pedestal fans are available for days when no breeze is blowing to help cool down the house overnight.’

Proof that recycling can be super-chic.

Quentin Irvine built this four-bedroom home for his family in the western Victorian town of Beaufort, made from completely recyclable materials. Mr Irvine, who is a builder, also ensured that if the house was ever demolished, the materials could be reused PICS TAKEN WITH PERMISSION VIA MANAGING DIRECTOR Quentin Irvine PHOTOGRAPHER CREDIT Nick Granleese https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ogpk23wv34tzoni/AACfRBO3wIoDKcqmYr3ue2uTa?dl=0
(Picture: Nick Granleese)
Quentin Irvine built this four-bedroom home for his family in the western Victorian town of Beaufort, made from completely recyclable materials. Mr Irvine, who is a builder, also ensured that if the house was ever demolished, the materials could be reused PICS TAKEN WITH PERMISSION VIA MANAGING DIRECTOR Quentin Irvine PHOTOGRAPHER CREDIT Nick Granleese https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ogpk23wv34tzoni/AACfRBO3wIoDKcqmYr3ue2uTa?dl=0
(Picture: Nick Granleese)
Quentin Irvine built this four-bedroom home for his family in the western Victorian town of Beaufort, made from completely recyclable materials. Mr Irvine, who is a builder, also ensured that if the house was ever demolished, the materials could be reused PICS TAKEN WITH PERMISSION VIA MANAGING DIRECTOR Quentin Irvine PHOTOGRAPHER CREDIT Nick Granleese https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ogpk23wv34tzoni/AACfRBO3wIoDKcqmYr3ue2uTa?dl=0
(Picture: Nick Granleese)
Quentin Irvine built this four-bedroom home for his family in the western Victorian town of Beaufort, made from completely recyclable materials. Mr Irvine, who is a builder, also ensured that if the house was ever demolished, the materials could be reused PICS TAKEN WITH PERMISSION VIA MANAGING DIRECTOR Quentin Irvine PHOTOGRAPHER CREDIT Nick Granleese https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ogpk23wv34tzoni/AACfRBO3wIoDKcqmYr3ue2uTa?dl=0
(Picture: Nick Granleese)
Quentin Irvine built this four-bedroom home for his family in the western Victorian town of Beaufort, made from completely recyclable materials. Mr Irvine, who is a builder, also ensured that if the house was ever demolished, the materials could be reused PICS TAKEN WITH PERMISSION VIA MANAGING DIRECTOR Quentin Irvine PHOTOGRAPHER CREDIT Nick Granleese https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ogpk23wv34tzoni/AACfRBO3wIoDKcqmYr3ue2uTa?dl=0
(Picture: Nick Granleese)
Quentin Irvine built this four-bedroom home for his family in the western Victorian town of Beaufort, made from completely recyclable materials. Mr Irvine, who is a builder, also ensured that if the house was ever demolished, the materials could be reused PICS TAKEN WITH PERMISSION VIA MANAGING DIRECTOR Quentin Irvine PHOTOGRAPHER CREDIT Nick Granleese https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ogpk23wv34tzoni/AACfRBO3wIoDKcqmYr3ue2uTa?dl=0
(Picture: Nick Granleese)
Quentin Irvine built this four-bedroom home for his family in the western Victorian town of Beaufort, made from completely recyclable materials. Mr Irvine, who is a builder, also ensured that if the house was ever demolished, the materials could be reused PICS TAKEN WITH PERMISSION VIA MANAGING DIRECTOR Quentin Irvine PHOTOGRAPHER CREDIT Nick Granleese https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ogpk23wv34tzoni/AACfRBO3wIoDKcqmYr3ue2uTa?dl=0
(Picture: Nick Granleese)
Quentin Irvine built this four-bedroom home for his family in the western Victorian town of Beaufort, made from completely recyclable materials. Mr Irvine, who is a builder, also ensured that if the house was ever demolished, the materials could be reused PICS TAKEN WITH PERMISSION VIA MANAGING DIRECTOR Quentin Irvine PHOTOGRAPHER CREDIT Nick Granleese https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ogpk23wv34tzoni/AACfRBO3wIoDKcqmYr3ue2uTa?dl=0
(Picture: Nick Granleese)
Quentin Irvine built this four-bedroom home for his family in the western Victorian town of Beaufort, made from completely recyclable materials. Mr Irvine, who is a builder, also ensured that if the house was ever demolished, the materials could be reused PICS TAKEN WITH PERMISSION VIA MANAGING DIRECTOR Quentin Irvine PHOTOGRAPHER CREDIT Nick Granleese https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ogpk23wv34tzoni/AACfRBO3wIoDKcqmYr3ue2uTa?dl=0
(Picture: Nick Granleese)

Quentin Irvine built this four-bedroom home for his family in the western Victorian town of Beaufort, made from completely recyclable materials. Mr Irvine, who is a builder, also ensured that if the house was ever demolished, the materials could be reused PICS TAKEN WITH PERMISSION VIA MANAGING DIRECTOR Quentin Irvine PHOTOGRAPHER CREDIT Nick Granleese https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ogpk23wv34tzoni/AACfRBO3wIoDKcqmYr3ue2uTa?dl=0
(Picture: Nick Granleese)
Quentin Irvine built this four-bedroom home for his family in the western Victorian town of Beaufort, made from completely recyclable materials. Mr Irvine, who is a builder, also ensured that if the house was ever demolished, the materials could be reused PICS TAKEN WITH PERMISSION VIA MANAGING DIRECTOR Quentin Irvine PHOTOGRAPHER CREDIT Nick Granleese https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ogpk23wv34tzoni/AACfRBO3wIoDKcqmYr3ue2uTa?dl=0
(Picture: Nick Granleese)
Quentin Irvine built this four-bedroom home for his family in the western Victorian town of Beaufort, made from completely recyclable materials. Mr Irvine, who is a builder, also ensured that if the house was ever demolished, the materials could be reused PICS TAKEN WITH PERMISSION VIA MANAGING DIRECTOR Quentin Irvine PHOTOGRAPHER CREDIT Nick Granleese https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ogpk23wv34tzoni/AACfRBO3wIoDKcqmYr3ue2uTa?dl=0
(Picture: Nick Granleese)
Quentin Irvine built this four-bedroom home for his family in the western Victorian town of Beaufort, made from completely recyclable materials. Mr Irvine, who is a builder, also ensured that if the house was ever demolished, the materials could be reused PICS TAKEN WITH PERMISSION VIA MANAGING DIRECTOR Quentin Irvine PHOTOGRAPHER CREDIT Nick Granleese https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ogpk23wv34tzoni/AACfRBO3wIoDKcqmYr3ue2uTa?dl=0
(Picture: Nick Granleese)

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Everyone’s favourite kitty themed Twitter account, @Catsu, has been suspended for impersonation

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(Picture: Getty)

If you’ve never heard of @Catsu, you’re missing out.

It’s a Twitter account that tweets out some of the best pics of cats we’ve ever seen (cats wearing sunglasses, cats in boxes, cats so soft and fluffy you can imagine your hand leaving an imprint when you stroke them) and gives you a cat pic whenever you tweet ‘cat’ at it.

It’s a joyful thing.

Normally at this point we’d tell you to race to Twitter to follow the account without delay, and show you a bunch of examples of the account’s tweets.

But we have some very sad news: @Catsu has been permanently suspended from Twitter for ‘impersonation’.

The creator of @Catsu, Declan, reached out to tell us that yesterday the account was permanently suspended – ‘which is funny because I have been the one who has been impersonated countless times.’

‘According to Twitter’s policy: “Twitter accounts portraying another person in a confusing or deceptive manner” are subject to permanent suspension, though Catsu did not do either of these,’ Declan tells us. I’ve included a screenshot of the profile to decide for yourself.

‘It’s a shame to see such a huge piece of my life gone now over what seems to be a mistake on Twitter’s end.

‘They could have used my account to their advantage “hey look what this guy did using our platform tools, come join twitter and tweet @catsu cat” but they seem to be against cute accounts.’

(Picture: Twitter/Catsu)

We reached out to Twitter to ask for further information on @Catsu’s suspension, questioning who the account was accused of impersonating (a specific cat? A general cat?).

Twitter told Metro.co.uk: ‘We don’t comment on individual accounts’. They then forwarded us the site’s impersonation policy, which we’ve copied below for your reference.

Twitter's impersonation policy:

Impersonation is a violation of the Twitter Rules. Twitter accounts portraying another person in a confusing or deceptive manner may be permanently suspended under the Twitter impersonation policy.

An account will not be removed if:

  • The user shares your name but has no other commonalities, or
  • The profile clearly states it is not affiliated with or connected to any similarly-named individuals.

Accounts with similar usernames or that are similar in appearance (e.g. the same avatar image) are not automatically in violation of the impersonation policy. In order to be impersonation, the account must also portray another person in a misleading or deceptive manner.

Twitter users are allowed to create parody, commentary, or fan accounts. Please refer to Twitter’s parody, commentary, and fan account policy for more information about these types of accounts.

Find more information about reporting impersonation on Twitter.

So that doesn’t make things much clearer.

The creator of @Catsu has been trying to reach Twitter directly for further information, and to find out if there’s anything he can do to rescue the account, but hasn’t had any luck yet.

He tells us that he received no warnings about the account, but simply woke up on Tuesday morning to find an email from Twitter telling him the account had been suspended.

He’s submitted ID pictures to prove he is who he says he is, and received a reply to an appeal request saying @Catsu would not be suspended… and yet it’s still gone.

‘I started Catsu June 2017 originally because I was very depressed and couldn’t figure out how to make myself happy so I started tweeting some cute cat videos – one of the first videos I tweeted of a cat sleeping went viral, and that’s what sparked the initial growth,’ Declan tells Metro.co.uk.

‘Catsu was the most engaged with cat page on the platform. The tweets would average around 40,000 rts and 60,000 likes.

‘There is nothing like the feeling of seeing a year’s worth of work be wiped away with one email. 700,000 followers, gone. All of my tweets surrounding #MeowForNow, gone.

‘My first reaction was sadness, followed by confusion as I read the email, twitter claim that I am “impersonating” someone and that I have been suspended permanently.

‘I checked their rules regarding impersonation and couldn’t make a connection, there was never anything to mislead my followers into thinking I was someone else.

‘Catsu has not only impacted my life in many ways, It’s also impacted the lives of anyone who has shared a post or requested a cat. It’s more than just the content in my opinion, although there is a criteria for Catsu images, it gives people a sense of community. Which truly shows when seeing Catsu has helped over 100,000 kitties find a foster home with The APSCA’s Meow For Now campaign.’

Meanwhile on Twitter, fans of the account are tweeting with the tag #FREECATSU to question why their daily dose of cute cat pics has been snatched away.

They’ve also noted that the account has done more than just brought joy to its hundreds of thousands of followers – the @Catsu community has helped more than 100,000 cats find foster homes in the U.S. through their work with the ASPCA.

Here’s hoping Twitter takes notice of people’s need for cute photos of cats in this cruel, scary world, and reinstates an account that brought us a glimmer of happiness on a daily basis.

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5 of the best cat cafes in the UK, from London to Edinburgh

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(Picture: Getty)

Cat cafes originated in Japan (where they’re called neko cafes).

They’re pretty much heaven, and encapsulate stroking cute kitties with tasty drinks and treats. Basically everything that’s right about the world.

These venues have been popping up across Britain, so even if you don’t own a cat of your own you can still hang out with the adorable little creatures.

As it’s International Cat Day, we’ve got a round up of all the best cat cafes here in the UK.

Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium

Instagram Photo

This was the first cat cafe here, and is situated in Shoreditch in London.

It’s child-free (no kids under 12) and you need to book ahead, which is easily done on their site.

Lady Dinah’s does special high tea packages to make it extra special, and you can upgrade that to prosecco too.

Maison de Moggy

Instagram Photo

Edinburgh’s Maison de Moggy is just off the Grassmarket.

They have sphynx cats, ragdolls, bengals, maine coons, and all sorts of other breeds to play with.

During August (and the Fringe) it’s £12 for an hour, including one drink. Book ahead to get a slot.

Mog on the Tyne

Instagram Photo

Mog on the Tyne is one of Newcastle’s cat cafes, and is made up of all rescue kitties.

As well as regular visits, they also host Cat Bingo, Cat Colouring and Knitting Club.

An hour here is £5, with food and drink charged separately.

Manchester Cat Cafe

Instagram Photo

This chilled out space costs £12 for an hour with unlimited hot drinks during your visit.

They save 50% capacity for walk-ins so you don’t need to book ahead, although kids under 10 aren’t allowed (but can attend special sessions held every month).

There is also a second venue in Liverpool.

Kitty Cafe Nottingham

Instagram Photo

Not only does Kitty Cafe have plenty of cats for you to hang out with, they also help with rehoming abandoned cats.

Bookings are £6 for an adult or £4 for a child, and food and drink are billed separately.

You can also visit the Leeds Kitty Cafe.

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Cat acne is real – here’s what you can do about it

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Cat from beneath; Shutterstock ID 1030763; Purchase Order: -
(Picture: Shutterstock / H. Tuller)

Cats get spots too. Just like humans, felines can experience unwanted breakouts of blackheads and whiteheads on their skin.

It occurs when the sebaceous glands (tiny glands under the surface of the skin) produce too much of an oily substance called sebum.

Sebum is necessary to lubricate the hair follicles that sebaceous glands are attached to, but too much of it can mix with dead skin cells and block up the follicle.

Plugged follicles close to the skin protrude outwards to create whiteheads, while follicles that are open form blackheads.

Cat acne is usually found on the chin and lower lip. Some cats will only get spots once or twice, while others experience breakouts throughout their lives.

It’s easier to see cat-ne on cats with pale fur, but age, breed and gender aren’t factors in whether or not a cat develops acne.

If you want to check whether your feline could do with some skincare, look out for red pimples, crustiness on the chin, black ‘dirt’ from blackheads that clings to the fur and black spots on the lips or gums. In severe cases, you might notice bleeding crusts, pustules, nodules, very red skin or hair loss.

If your cat is in pain or has severe symptoms, you should always take them to the vet.

Clean, healthy cats are the most likely to be free from breakouts of cat-ne.

Cat acne is real and here's what you can do about it
A serious case of cat acne. If your cat’s chin looks like this, they definitely need to go to the vet (Picture: Wikimedia)

Both lazy grooming habits and excessive grooming can contribute to cat acne. It can also be cause by poor immune functioning or abnormalities in the cat’s skin surface.

With mild cases of cat acne, treatment can easily be carried out at home.

If your pet is using a plastic food dish, switch it to a ceramic or stainless steel alternative. You can buy cat-friendly dermatological wipes (like the face wipes we use to remove makeup).

Chat to your vet and find out which pet-safe antibacterial shampoo they recommend. Your cat might also benefit from a fatty acid supplement, specifically Omega 3.

In very severe cases, cats need antibiotics to clear their acne up.

Caroline Reay, senior vet at the pet charity Blue Cross, told Metro.co.uk: ‘Several different feline skin conditions can cause the appearance of “acne” on the chin.

‘Classic acne, not too dissimilar to humans, involves hair follicle plugging in the chin and lip region, in severe cases, this can lead to further problems for our furry friends such as furnunculosis (an infection in the hair follicle) and possible bacterial infections. The cause is unknown but treatment is widely available.

‘There are several treatments which are used for feline acne. The most effective are topical treatments including special shampoos for bathing and creams which can be applied to the affected area.

‘However, there are other diseases and allergies that also affect the chin area which could require different treatment so if you notice any problems or changes with your cat’s skin, please do take it to a vet to investigate and get your beloved pet quickly on the mend.’

If you’re unsure about how best to treat cat acne or how serious your pet’s condition is, your vet should always be the first port of call.

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Looking for a vacation full of luxury? A Caribbean cruise is calling your name

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(Picture: Royal Caribbean)

If you fancy the ultimate luxury vacation, head on a cruise around the Caribbean.

Departing from its home port of Fort Lauderdale, Royal Caribbean’s Allure Of The Seas takes you on an incredible trip to the Bahamas, Cozumel, Roatan and Costa Maya.

I’d never been on a cruise before and I really didn’t know what to expect. I’d seen TV programmes where people took cruise holidays, but I tended to associate heading on a cruise with grandparents singing karaoke or playing shuffleboard on the sea.

Allure of the Seas was different.

After boarding the ship from Fort Lauderdale, I was greeted by a stunning lit-up floor filled with shops, restaurants, bars and more.

To the left was a champagne bar. The ship had the feeling of an old-fashioned boudoir.

To the right were a whole line of bars and restaurants, with champagne and wine stores and a stand just for cocktails.

This isn’t a boat just for pensioners in need of a comfortable holiday – there are plenty of bars and entertainment perfect for younger travelers, groups, and couples.

(Picture: Royal Caribbean)

That’s a deliberate move – the average age of British passengers taking cruise holidays has dropped over the last six years, and the latest Royal Caribbean figures show that in 2016, bookings for groups of friends or family accounted for 20% of all passengers.

The typical cruise passenger is changing, and heading on a cruise is no longer the reserve of your nan. Royal Caribbean has clearly taken notice of that trend and designed Allure of the Seas to be great fun for twenty-somethings too.

There were plenty of fancy restaurants on board, serving up dishes from all around the world, and the food is all included in your standard cruise package.

You can pick from spots that served up pizza, Italian sandwiches, sushi, Mexican fare and more, or head to the all you can eat buffet, which is much posher than it sounds – I had the best lobster and mussels there.

For drinks, there were plenty of cocktail bars to choose from. You have to pay for drinks separately, but there are drinks packages you can buy.

You can really tell the bartenders take pride in their drinks. Honestly, you won’t get a nicer Miami Vice or piña colada anywhere else.

(Picture: Hattie Gladwell)

While the food was amazing, the rest of the ship was even better. There was a deck full of pools – massive outside pools surrounded by deck chairs, smaller pools for kids, and an array of huge hot tubs bubbling away.

There was one specific place under a glass roof that I loved, with round hot tubs and a waterfall pool.

In terms of entertainment, there was an ice rink where skaters performed, theatres where you could watch shows, a cinema, a sports area and more.

I won’t lie, I spent a lot of time by the pool with a cocktail. I was trying to live the life of luxury, obviously, and I succeeded.

As mentioned above, the cruise took me across the Bahamas, Cozumel, Roatan and Costa Maya.

I had the most glorious experience in the Bahamas. We stopped in Nassau, and I got off the boat to go snorkelling in the ocean. It was a dream.

(Picture: Hattie Gladwell)

I spent the morning on a speed boat, sailing out across the ocean to the snorkelling spot.

There was music on the boat and spaces to sunbathe while fresh coconut water was handed around. It was an incredible experience – and that was before actually getting into the water.

Even though I’ve snorkelled before, there was something extra special about doing it in the ocean – it was pretty unbelievable swimming around the ocean with fish swimming right up to my face my body.

The next day, we visited Cozumel where you can visit old ruins, visit massive waterparks and theme parks or just enjoy its beaches.

The next stop was in Roatan, one of Honduras’s Caribbean Bay Islands. It’s known for its beaches, dive sites and marine life, including whale sharks. And at the busy West Bay Beach, there’s a coral reef right near the shore.

(Picture: Hattie Gladwell)

There are spots to go diving, snorkelling, and try different water activities.

Our final stop was Costa Maya. I got off the ship greeted by musicians playing the drums and the harp.

The locals were so friendly – everyone smiling and complimenting you as you walked by.

I walked into the tiniest village filled with street performers and beach shops selling unique jewellery.

There was also a little beach hut selling cocktails. I bought one and found a beach next to it, with wooden sun loungers on the sand looking out on the ocean.

While having a walk around, I also noticed a large pool which surrounded one of the bars, with loud music playing as everyone played volleyball. I’d have loved to have spent a couple of days there.

Though getting off the boat and exploring was amazing, the ship itself really made the holiday.

(Picture: Royal Caribbean)

I had the most wonderful room, with a large TV, a large bed, and I even had my own balcony which looked out on the waters, with a little table where I could sip back a glass of wine – and just so you know, whatever you buy from the bar you can take around the ship and back to your room, so there’s no need to pay for room service.

Staff were lovely – the rooms were constantly spotless, and they even create swans out of the towels to place on your bed which was a really lovely added touch.

What I loved about the ship was also how much there was to do in the evenings. Over the week I was on there, I spent time in the casino on the bottom floor and an ice show. You can also head along to clubs, comedy nights, those classic karaoke sessions, and water shows.

The ship also puts on special nights. During my trip there was one night when everyone had to get dressed up to the nines. It was lovely walking past seeing so many gorgeous people in suits and stunning dresses.

The best way I can describe the entire experience: It was like something out of a movie.

While the ship is simply beautiful, there’s so, so much to do, and so many excursions that you can book with the ship – including diving, swimming with dolphins, feeding sting rays, zip lining, you name it, they’ve got it.

And that’s what you need when you’re away for a week – exciting things to do, before heading back and spending the night relaxing, enjoying yourself and feeling like you’re surrounded by nothing but luxury.

Flights and prices

There are packages with Royal Caribbean’s Allure Of The Seas starting from $559 (£434.40) per person for a seven night stay.

You will need to fly to and from Fort Lauderdale, the ship’s home port. There are flights from London Gatwick to Fort Lauderdale from £270 return with British Airways.

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An afternoon tea made out of chocolate is coming to London

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(Picture: Choc on Choc)

To celebrate National Afternoon Tea Week, which takes place from 13 – 19 August, Choc on Choc is launching an afternoon tea entirely made out of chocolate.

The afternoon tea will be taking place at the London Marriott Park Lane Hotel in its Lanes of London restaurant.

You’ll be able to eat all of the traditional afternoon tea treats – but some of them have been swapped for chocolate.

Yes, some of this is chocolate. (Picture: Choc on Choc)

The tea features a selection of finger sandwiches, scones and pastries as well as Choc on Choco’s chocolate cucumber sandwiches, chocolate biscuits and chocolate custard creams that look like the real thing.

There’s also a chocolate scone, which is filled with jam. Yum.

(Picture: Choc on Choc)

Each part of the chocolate afternoon tea, which costs £39.50 per person, is handmade from Belgian milk and white chocolate.

It’s created using Choc on Choc’s patented production method that layers chocolate on top of chocolate.

Yep, that scone is chocolate. (Picture: Choc on Choc)

The afternoon tea will be available between midday and 5pm on the dates mentioned – but for those who can’t make it, you can actually have the afternoon tea delivered to your house for £30.

Flo Broughton, Co-Founder of Choc on Choc said: ‘As an independent British brand, we love all things afternoon tea so wanted a fitting way to celebrate National Afternoon Tea Week.

You see those sandwiches at the top? Chocolate. (Picture: Choc on Choc)

‘We’re hoping Brits will indulge and marvel at our chocolate sandwich, scone and biscuit creations that look just like the real thingl! The Marriott Hotel, who are known for their delicious afternoon teas, are a perfect partner for us to provide a truly bespoke offering for chocolate-lovers to enjoy.’

MORE: Attention, chocolate lovers: A giant Jaffa Cake cheesecake exists

MORE: How to tell if your cat is sad

The new ‘Super Carb Diet’ is proof that cutting carbs isn’t necessary for weight loss

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(Picture: Getty)

For years, the diet industry has promoted the idea that carbs are ‘bad’ for our waistlines.

If you want to be slim and fit, say goodbye to rice, potatoes and pasta (ignoring the fact, of course, that professional athletes often a mix of fast and slow release carbs into their diets).

That is, until now.

Because someone’s come up with the ‘Super Carb Diet’, which promotes the eating of ‘fibre-dense’ carbs.

It’s the brainchild of former Biggest Loser trainer, Bob Harper, who has written a book entitled ‘The Super Carb Diet: Shed Pounds, Build Strength, Eat Real Food’.

The principal is simple: adopt a maintainable, healthy, balanced, whole foods diet rich is complex carbohydrates like brown rice and sweet potatoes, which will keep you fuller and more energised for longer.

What it doesn’t mean, however, is gorging on things like bread and biscuits; we’re talking about eating non-processed carbs here.

Bob took up the diet after suffering from a heart attack in 2017, and says that the diet has given him the energy to recover properly and maintain his weight – and has the added benefit of not being too heavily protein-based (which can be hard to digest).

He tells Eat Well that his typical day of eating looks like this:

‘I tend to not have my first meal until after my yoga class in the morning or my CrossFit workout. After that, I will have my first meal which could be a nonfat Greek yoghurt with fresh berries and a teaspoon of nut butter. I will add extra berries since I’m not likely to add any veggies to that meal.

‘Lunch will usually be a BIG salad with plenty of peppers and chicken. I’ll add a quarter of an avocado and use balsamic vinegar. Dinner is when I do most of my cooking, I love to cook! I’ll always roast up some veggies and put them on the brown rice, and my protein will more than likely be a white fish or a chicken breast. Sometimes I will go all veggie and grain and make an eggplant steak (one of my favourites).’

Instagram Photo

Hardly sounds like rocket science, but that’s the thing – there is no secret to healthy eating. It literally is just a case of eating a balanced diet, ensuring that you get a bit of protein, carb and fat, and don’t go too mad on the sugar and salt.

If you want to lose weight super quickly…and probably put it all back on even faster (and more besides), cut out carbs. If you want to reduce your body fat and sustain it as part of a healthy lifestyle, then cutting out whole food groups isn’t going to work.

Prior to his heart attack, Bob was on a paleo-type diet, rich in protein and fat and very low in carbohydrate, and he says that its high-fat content left his body feeling off-balanced.

The fact is that not alternative diets work for everyone (in fact, they work for very few); while Bob doesn’t claim his previous diet caused his heart attack, it is irresponsible for the diet industry to keep trying to push people into adopting these high X, low Y eating systems. Very high fat and protein might work for some folk, but cutting out complex carbs means that you’re probably missing out on a whole host of vital vitamins and minerals.

The Super Carb Diet simply sounds like your bog standard healthy eating regime, but maybe in these days of extreme fitness, dieting and wellness, even common sense needs a marketable label.

MORE: 5 of the best cat cafes in the UK, from London to Edinburgh

MORE: Scientists explain why alcohol gives you the ‘drunchies’ and makes you eat rubbish food


Marvel at this 14-year-old baker who creates incredible cakes

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(Picture: ryanwilsonbakes/Instagram)

You only need to spend a few minutes on Instagram before you find a post of some seriously impressive food.

But Ryan Wilson’s cakes are something special.

Ryan is a self-taught baker who uses Instagram to share the spectacular creations he’s made.

And he’s only 14 years old.

While most of us struggle to put together store-bought dessert mixes, Ryan has been (proficiently) dabbling in the stuff since he was a kid.

The teen, from San Francisco, California, spoke to Metro.co.uk about his delicious-looking bakes.

Here’s Ryan (Picture: Ryan Wilson)

‘When I was eight years old I was given an Easy Bake Oven as a present,’ he said. ‘Once that became too easy I started using the oven. I learned from watching TV shows on the Food Network and YouTube.

‘The best part of the process is sharing my creations with my friends and followers, and making step-by-step tutorials where viewers can see it’s easier to do than they think!

‘I would say my favourite right now is my M&Ms gravity-defying cake. My friends love my bakes, they get samples all the time.’

Ryan’s fave; M&Ms gravity-defying cake (Picture: Ryan Wilson)

The whole process of putting together the cake, complete with icing and decorations, plus filming takes Ryan about six to eight hours.

Ryan shows behind the scenes footage of filming his tutorials and shares his recipes with his 73,000 followers.

He also has a YouTube channel for the same purpose, with longer videos.

(Picture: Ryan Wilson)

He’s clearly not shy in front of the camera and has made several American TV appearances including Kids Baking Championship, Sugar Showdown, and Home & Family.

Culinary school is now on the horizon for Ryan and he told Metro.co.uk he wants to become a Food Network TV chef one day.

We can totally see that happening.

MORE: Mum’s cake for daughter’s first birthday looks a bit naughty

MORE: Personal trainer shows how bloated she becomes after eating eggs, dairy and sugar

MORE: Cheeky chef gets revenge on rude customers by serving them penis shaped desserts

How it feels to see colour for the first time

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Ronnie Straub
Ronnie with the glasses that changed his life (Picture: Ronnie Straub)

I have been colour blind my entire life.

When I was in nursery, my teacher would ask the class to colour with crayons. ‘Colour the cow brown, the sky blue and the grass green’.

I would walk up to my teacher with four different crayons that I thought were similar colours and ask her which one was brown. And I did this for every colour.

Eventually, they told my father, but nothing else was done.

Imagine any of these scenarios: Having to ask ‘is the light red, yellow, or green?’ when coming to traffic lights; grabbing the blue ball, but being told it’s actually the orange one; being asked to hand someone a green cup, but not knowing which one that is.

This is what living with colour blindness is like.

Years ago, I saw a video of someone using glasses designed to improve the vision of those with colour blindness. The person in the video couldn’t pick out colour, but was overwhelmed by what they saw.

This made me desire those glasses – I wanted to see what they did, but they were expensive.

There was a colour blind test on their website. I did it in front of my colleagues; most of the people I work with know that I am colour blind. In fact, my staff used to help me pick out ties in the morning and I would usually bring in three or four.

So when I did the test, and said I couldn’t see a number when it was bright as day, it blew their minds.

Ronnie Straub
Ronnie’s colleagues got together and bought him glasses that helped with his colour blindness (Picture: Ronnie Straub)

A few months ago, I was asked to take the colour blind test again so a new employee could watch.

The colleague who asked me had the site set up on her computer so I did the test there and didn’t think anything of it.

One Friday evening, I was about to head home when one of my staff members sent a message saying that a few things needed to be covered before I left so I went back into the office.

As I walked in, I saw many of my colleagues who were not due in that day and another employee was making a recording.

Then someone gave me a gift basket.

I thought that maybe it was boss’s day and they were giving me a small present. But then I saw the logo and that’s when it struck me.

They knew how bad I wanted those glasses, and how expensive they were. I tore right into that box.

It was an overwhelming experience.

In the video that was taken, you could hear me say ‘Oh my God’ right before I put the glasses on.

The effect was instantaneous and I could see colour from the moment I put them on. My entire life, I haven’t been able to pick out purple, blue, green, orange, or yellow; but in that moment, I did.

My hand was visibly shaking when I looked at the colours of my tie.

It was a really emotional experience and I was trying to keep it together. Most of that was a blur to be honest.

I found out later that the colour blind test I took was under an account that my colleague had created to capture the results, so the team could surprise me with the glasses.

On the drive home that day, I went down the road in my old neighbourhood and looked at the colours of the houses that I couldn’t see before.

I’ve lived on that street for five years but now it looked so different. That’s the moment I broke down and had to pull over.

I went to the convenience shop near my house, where I broke down again in the sweets aisle. Have you seen a Skittles package? It was really my first time.

I wear my special glasses every day now.

I can match my clothes myself, appreciate the colours around me, and enjoy the flowers around my house.

I never realised how beautiful everything was.

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MORE: Dissociation disorder made me feel like I was watching myself in a movie

Pole dancer with a stoma bag defies nurse who said she’d never wear a bikini again

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(Picture: Phil Crow/Caters News)

A pole dancer has started dancing with her stoma bag out in a bid to defy the nurse she claims told her she’d never be able to wear pretty bikinis again after surgery.

22-year-old Chloe Wilson was days from death when she had to have her entire colon removed after being diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, a form of inflammatory bowel disease.

Though it was to save her life, she claims a nurse told her that she should ‘rethink her decision’.

She allegedly went on to warn Chloe that she would ‘never be able to wear pretty bikinis like her friends’ as her ileostomy bag would be on show.

After battling crippling stomach cramps since being a teenager, Chloe was only diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, a long-term condition where the colon and rectum become inflamed and ulcerated, last March.

Chloe decided to have her colon removed in an attempt to stop her pain, as no medication had helped.

PIC FROM Phil Crow/Caters News - (PICTURED: Chloe Wilson, 22, from Crowle, Lincolnshire - Pole fitness dancer showing her colostomy bag) - A pole dancer is flaunting her colostomy bag to defy the nurse who she says told her shed never be able to wear pretty bikinis after surgery.Chloe Wilson, 22 - who was days from death when she opted to have her entire colon removed was devastated when a nurse told her she should rethink her decision.She went on to warn Chloe that she would never be able to wear pretty bikinis like her friends as her colostomy bag would be on show.SEE CATERS COPY
(Picture: Phil Crow/Caters News)

Chloe didn’t change her mind despite the nurse’s comments – and it was a good job, as her colon was so heavily diseased she was close to it perforating.

Chloe, from Crowle, Lincolnshire, is now sharing her story to show others that ileostomy bags do not need to hold you back. She’s not only able to wear bikinis, but she can still do pole fitness.

The hairdresser said: ‘I’d been in hospital for five weeks when the nurse came over and asked if I was sure about my decision as I’d never be able to wear a bikini like my friends.

‘I was already upset as I was in so much pain but her comments made things so much worse.

‘It was lucky I hadn’t listened to her as surgeons warned that if I’d left things for much longer that it could have been fatal.

PIC FROM Phil Crow/Caters News - (PICTURED: Chloe Wilson, 22, from Crowle, Lincolnshire - Pole fitness dancer showing her colostomy bag) - A pole dancer is flaunting her colostomy bag to defy the nurse who she says told her shed never be able to wear pretty bikinis after surgery.Chloe Wilson, 22 - who was days from death when she opted to have her entire colon removed was devastated when a nurse told her she should rethink her decision.She went on to warn Chloe that she would never be able to wear pretty bikinis like her friends as her colostomy bag would be on show.SEE CATERS COPY
(Picture: Phil Crow/Caters News)

‘I’d been in agony since I was 13 years old but doctors thought I was lactose intolerant.

‘It was only when I collapsed from pain last March that I finally got the answers I desperately needed.

‘I’m so lucky to have survived and I can finally pursue my passion for pole fitness.

‘Before surgery I was too ill to be able to endure high levels of exercise and if I’d not had the surgery when I did, doctors said I wouldn’t be here today.

‘I’m so happy I didn’t listen to the nurse who tried to put me down.

‘I wear pretty bikinis with pride and there’s no reason why I can’t, it’s good to be different.’

Chloe is about to start competing in pole fitness competitions and wants to encourage others to flaunt their stoma bags with pride.

PIC FROM Phil Crow/Caters News - (PICTURED: Chloe Wilson, 22, from Crowle, Lincolnshire - Pole fitness dancer showing her colostomy bag) - A pole dancer is flaunting her colostomy bag to defy the nurse who she says told her shed never be able to wear pretty bikinis after surgery.Chloe Wilson, 22 - who was days from death when she opted to have her entire colon removed was devastated when a nurse told her she should rethink her decision.She went on to warn Chloe that she would never be able to wear pretty bikinis like her friends as her colostomy bag would be on show.SEE CATERS COPY
(Picture: Phil Crow/Caters News)

She added: ‘I was nervous the first time I put on a bikini and decided to show the world my bag.

‘But I soon realised that people really don’t care and especially in pole fitness as everyone is just supportive.

‘It was so draining being in agony constantly and before my surgery I was passing blood daily.

‘It was unbearable but as soon as I had the surgery I felt so much more healthier.

‘I have since set up an Instagram page to showcase my pole fitness and colostomy bag journey to help others who might be going through something similar.’

Scunthorpe General Hospital – where Chloe was treated – were contacted, and Tara Filby, chief nurse, responded: ‘We would welcome the opportunity to speak to Chloe directly about her concerns, and would ask that she contacts our PALS team so we can arrange this.’

MORE: Model shares what it was like to pose with her stoma bag out for the #AerieREAL campaign

MORE: American Eagle’s lingerie brand Aerie now has models with visible disabilities

Please take a moment to appreciate Ozzy, the cat who loves snuggling peaches

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(Picture: Lydia Coutre/Twitter)

Today is International Cat Day, and we want to take a moment to celebrate Ozzy – a lovely little cat with a strange love for peaches.

27-year-old Lydia Coutre, from Cleveland, Ohio, recently shared a series of photos of her parents’ five-year-old cat Ozzy guarding some peaches to Twitter, explaining that kitty absolutely adores the fruit.

No, not eating peaches. Snuggling peaches.

Lydia doesn’t know why.

She wrote: ‘My parents’ cat inexplicably LOVES peaches, and it’s the most delightful thing.

‘They send regular picture updates to the family group chat of this cat just chilling with the peaches. It’s the most important notification I get to my phone.’

Lydia says Ozzy, who lives in Michigan, doesn’t actually eat the peaches, he just likes to guard them and cuddle with them.

She tells Metro.co.uk: ‘The first time we brought peaches around him, he started rubbing on them, so the reigning theory is that he like the fuzziness.

Cat who loves peaches https://twitter.com/LydiaCoutre/status/1024675890561736704 Lydia Coutr?? ??? @LydiaCoutre Follow Follow @LydiaCoutre More My parents??? cat inexplicably LOVES peaches, and it???s the most delightful thing. They send regular picture updates to the family group chat of this cat just chilling with the peaches. It???s the most important notification I get to my phone.
(Picture: Lydia Coutre/Twitter)

‘When not guarding peaches, he can usually be found squirrel watching, sunbathing or sleeping on someone’s lap.’

Lydia adds that beyond his love of peaches, her favourite thing about the feline is how ‘social and loving he can be’.

Cat who loves peaches https://twitter.com/LydiaCoutre/status/1024675890561736704 Lydia Coutr?? ??? @LydiaCoutre Follow Follow @LydiaCoutre More My parents??? cat inexplicably LOVES peaches, and it???s the most delightful thing. They send regular picture updates to the family group chat of this cat just chilling with the peaches. It???s the most important notification I get to my phone.
(Picture: Lydia Coutre/Twitter)

‘When he wants to. He’s a cat after all’, she said.

Since the photos were shared to Twitter, the adorable Ozzy has become a viral sensation, with the tweet receiving more than 70,000 retweets and 189,000 likes.

People just can’t get enough of Ozzy and his peaches, and they’ve been responding with pictures of their own pets and their love of fruits and weird things

 

Some people have even gone as far as to create art about Ozzy and his love of peaches

Yes, people love Ozzy so much they’re painting pictures of him.

Unfortunately, due to no longer living with her parents, Lydia doesn’t have any other photos of Ozzy to share with us.

But don’t worry. Her little sister has an entire Instagram dedicated to Ozzy and his sister Darcy.

Here are a few of our favourite photos.

Here’s Ozzy being the peach king

Instagram Photo

 

SO. MANY. PEACHES.

Instagram Photo

 

Here he is, tired from all the peach guarding that day

Instagram Photo

 

We hope Ozzy was given a massive bag of peaches for his birthday

Instagram Photo

 

Here he is having a staring contest with Darcy

Instagram Photo

 

Yes, this cat is equally as lovely as Ozzy

Instagram Photo

But come on, we just can’t help having a soft spot for Ozzy and his love of peaches

Instagram Photo

MORE: How to tell if your cat is sad

MORE: How to tell if your cat loves you

I set up a defibrillator in a school – and two days later, I had to use it on my own son

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Stuart Askew and ethan
(Picture: Stuart Askew)

When I set up the school’s new defibrillator, the furthest thought from my mind was that I might have to use it less than 48 hours later to revive my own son.

But that’s exactly what happened on April 27, 2017 – a date that will forever be etched in my mind.

I’m the premises manager at Steiner Academy in Hereford, where my son, Ethan, is a pupil. I was preparing to head out to a meeting when three pupils ran up, shouting that that Ethan, who was then 15, had collapsed.

He’d been out on the field doing a PE lesson when he stopped and turned to Charlie, an ex-pupil who was supporting the games teacher in the lesson, to say he was struggling to breathe. Then he collapsed into Charlie’s arms.

At first I wasn’t too worried. I’m a first aider and I knew saying someone has collapsed could mean anything.

However, as I reached the field and slowly ran closer, I could see that someone was doing CPR on Ethan.

That’s when everything changed.

It is about 100m across the field and all kinds of emotions rushed through my head. I felt huge frustration that I couldn’t run any quicker to reach my son.

Maggie – the school’s receptionist – was doing chest compressions, and I immediately joined the effort to save my son’s life by giving Ethan rescue breaths.

It’s comforting to know that Maggie had already taken that amazing decision to start CPR. If CPR doesn’t begin within minutes, then a person’s survival chances are close to nil.

The colour of Ethan’s face was just shocking and perhaps one of the hardest memories to move on from. However, within a few breaths and continued CPR, there was a distinct change. This gave me hope.

defibrillator
(Picture: Stuart Askew)

And then within about 30 seconds, the thought came to me that we have a defib! I started shouting to Ethan’s classmates to run and get it.

The school had recently made a successful application to the British Heart Foundation for a community defibrillator for the village.

Just two days earlier, I had unpacked it and installed the batteries. The thought that I might use it – and on my own son – had never crossed my mind.

Charlie was the fastest runner and he brought the defib. I unzipped the bag and turned it on. Ethan’s shirt was pulled up and the pads were stuck on.

It’s hard to see someone stopping CPR, while you wait those few agonising seconds for the machine to ‘analyse’.

‘Shock advised. Clear.’ And the shock was delivered.

An ambulance arrived within minutes of the second shock and Ethan was taken to hospital and put in an induced coma.

Tests revealed that one of his coronary arteries was too narrow – a random genetic condition – and because he’d exercised so much that day, not enough oxygen was getting to his heart.

He’s since had surgery to correct this, and was back in school a few weeks later with no lasting effects.

ethan askew
(Picture: Stuart Askew)

I know Ethan is one of the lucky ones.

Lucky in that someone called 999 and started CPR immediately. Lucky in that the school had applied for a defibrillator and I had unpacked it hours before.

Fewer than one in 10 people survive a cardiac arrest outside of hospital, and defibrillators are used in less than 3% of cases, often because they aren’t registered to ambulance services, so 999 call handlers don’t know where the nearest one is.

The first thing I did after Ethan’s recovery was register the defib with the West Midlands ambulance service. If someone calls in a similar emergency, they’ll be directed to our defib.

The BHF’s new defibrillator network could make this a reality for every 999 call. I have no doubt this will save thousands of lives every year. Lives like Ethan’s.

The UK's defibrillators mapped:

The British Heart Foundation and Microsoft have teamed up to map all the defribrillators in the UK.

It means that if someone calls 999, the handler is able to direct them to the nearest defribrillator if needed.

You can find out more and register here.

MORE: Heart patient aims to be first person to run London Marathon with defibrillator

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MORE: Ambulance drone with built-in defibrillator ‘could save thousands of lives’

If you’re allergic to cats, here’s how to reduce symptoms around the pets

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(Picture: Getty)

Even if you love cats the most, sometimes your body can betray you and make you allergic to them.

No-one can resist petting cute kitties, though, so it’s important to find ways around your allergies and live your best life.

Here’s how to reduce your symptoms and increase your interactions with adorable pets.

Take antihistamines

Antihistamines these days are cheap and easy to come by. There are also plenty of non-drowsy options on the market.

A one-a-day allergy tablet should keep symptoms at bay, leaving you free to enjoy many head scritches and pats.

(Picture: Getty)

Get a special type of cat

There’s a common misconception that it’s cat hair that people are allergic to. This isn’t actually the case, and the most common allergen Fel d 1 is found in the cat’s sebacious glands.

This then is carried in skin flakes that fall off when your pet grooms themselves.

The other – Fel d 4 – is found in their saliva and goes on to their fur during the washing process

Although there is no completely hypoallergenic cat, there are some breeds that won’t trigger allergies as much due to the makeup of their fur, the amount of Fel d 1 they produce, and the amount they wash themselves.

Breeds include Sphynx cats, Devon rexes, and Balineses.

Brush your cat in the fresh air

Brushing your cat is a necessity, but obviously it means releasing all their skin flakes and fur.

Do this outside so it won’t settle in your house and will simply disperse into the fresh air.

(Picture: Getty)

Use a HEPA filter

Large hardware stores and websites will sell air purifiers with HEPA filters that remove airborne pollutants like cat dander (those pesky skin flakes).

Plenty of vacuum cleaners also have built-in HEPA filters, so it can be a double whammy removing unsightly pet hair and the allergy causing particles.

Clean the litter box

If you find that your allergies are worse than normal, it could be because you aren’t cleaning the litter tray as frequently as you should.

Cat allergens are found in their urine, so although cleaning it yourself probably isn’t the best idea, making sure it stays clean (calling all housemates and partners) is imperative.

Try to use a less dusty brand of litter, too.

Don’t let them lick you

As mentioned before, Fel d 4 is found in cat’s saliva, so letting them lick you can create a topical allergic reaction.

Luckily plenty of cats will only let you go near them for 0.6 seconds before getting bored and doing their own thing, so fighting off their affections shouldn’t be super difficult.

Cat allergy symptoms

  • coughing and wheezing
  • hives or a rash on the chest and face
  • red, itchy eyes
  • redness of the skin where a cat has scratched, bitten, or licked you
  • runny, itchy, stuffy nose
  • sneezing

If you have severe symptoms to contact with cat, contact 111, or if being around a cat triggers an asthma attack, call 999.

MORE: Please take a moment to appreciate Ozzy, the cat who loves snuggling peaches

MORE: Everyone’s favourite kitty themed Twitter account, @Catsu, has been suspended for impersonation

The largest domestic cats you can adopt – and things you should know before you do

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(Picture: Getty)

If you’re looking to get a cat but wanting something a little larger than your standard feline, there’s actually a whole range of large domestic cats to choose from.

A couple of the largest domestic cats you can adopt are the Siberian, an incredibly big, fluffy cat that can reach up to 26 pounds, and the Maine Coon – which is known more for its fluff and the length of its tail.

However, there’s also lots of other cats that are classed as being a bit on the big side.

The Siberian cat

Adorable brown tabby cat of siberian breed sitting on the grass green. Hypoallergenic pet; Shutterstock ID 721978474; Purchase Order: -
A gorgeous tabby Siberian cat (Picture: Shutterstock)

The Siberian cat is a specific breed of cat that originates in the cold weather climate of Russia – which is why their coats are so fluffy.

They generally tend to weigh up to 26lbs and are known for being very intelligent, making a great family pet.

They’re also very playful, happy cats.

But there’s one thing you should know if you’re going to get one: these cats do shed. And obviously, they shed quite a lot.

According to The Happy Cat Site, these cats are also prone to certain health conditions, with one of the main concerns being heart disease. In the Siberian cat, it can show up at any age. Heart disease can result in death anywhere from one year to eight years of age.

But of course, if you notice they’re not feeling too well, you just need to take them along to the vet. Many cats are prone to this, and so it’s not something that only affects Siberian cats.

If you are going to adopt a Siberian cat, you will need to make sure you give them a good diet. They need one that’s high in animal proteins – so don’t go feeding them any cheap cat food.

The Maine Coon cat

The Maine Coon cat is gorgeous (Picture: Getty)

The Maine Coon cat can weigh anywhere between 9 and 18lbs. They’re known for being very good with kids and dogs, and have a very loving nature.

You’ll also find a number of these cats at the top of the list for the ‘Biggest Domestic Cat Awards’, as they’re known for having super long bodies.

Maine Coon’s can come in many colours, and due to the amount of fur they have, grooming is something you definitely need to consider when adopting one.

You should be combing their fur at least twice a week with a stainless steel comb to keep it from getting matted. This’ll also help keep it nice and shiny.

You also need to make sure that you keep their fur clean – as well as their eyes, as due to their long hair, things like faeces can get stuck and irritate them.

Health problems are something else you need to be aware of – due to Maine Coon cats not being very common, there are some genetic health problems fairly widespread within the breed.

One thing to look out for is joint problems; one such joint problem that can impact Maine Coons is hip dysplasia. This is a condition which occurs when the hip joint is malformed. The socket part of the joint (where the ball is meant to snuggly and comfortably sit) is incomplete and is wrongly shaped. This means the cat’s leg won’t move properly when they run, walk or jump. It can also cause arthritis, pain and lameless and in severe cases may even require euthanasia.

So, if you are going to adopt a Maine Coon you need to ensure you can financially afford to look after it and keep it healthy in case any of these things occur.

The Ragdoll cat

A blue-eyed seal lynx colourpoint patterned Ragdoll cat looking at the camera with his tail raised.
Just look at this gorgeous Ragdoll! (Picture: Getty)

These easy-going cats tend to weigh between 8-20lbs. They love to be with their owners and are very loving animals.

Due to them being very large cats, you will need to spend money on accommodating them – for example with a larger cat bed, cat tree, cat flap or litter box.

While Ragdolls are heavier than most cats, they are also a lot longer and taller than the average feline.

When adopting a Ragdoll, you also need to be super wary of scams. There’s a lot of them when it comes to adopting a purebred kitty – so make sure you’re adopting from a reputable breeder or shelter.

This is the best way to ensure your cat is healthy, well tempered and well behaved.

The Bengal cat

Bengal cat like a leopard sneaks; Shutterstock ID 582832921; Purchase Order: -
Bengal cats are very confident and stubborn (Picture: Shutterstock)

A lot of people don’t realise it but Bengals are actually really big cats, commonly weighing up to 18lbs. They’re very confident cats and love playing and enjoy chasing birds and climbing. Some Bengals also have the ‘glitter gene’, which makes their fur look like it’s glowing.

But according to Pets4Homes, these cats can be very noisy cats. They’re very vocal and are not afraid to constantly tell you off to get their own way.

Oh, and they will bug the hell out of you if you try to have some time alone from them (though who wants to spend time away from their cat?)

They are also very successful hunters – so you’d best watch out for any dead birds or mice hanging around the house.

Norwegian Forest cats

The Norwegian Forest cat can weigh up to 16lbs (Picture: Getty)

These cats tend to weigh between 8-16lbs and are particularly laid back and not easily stressed.

These cats are natural breeds and come from Norway.

As well as being expensive to buy, these cats are expensive to look after. They need to be groomed on a regular basis to make sure their coats are kept in good condition, and they also need to be fed good quality food.

You may also end up spending quite a lot on food – as these cats are very fussy eaters, so it may take you a while to find out what works for them and what doesn’t.

It’s also essential to keep an eye on these cats’ weights because if they start to put on too much, it can have a serious impact on their overall health and well-being.

The Turkish Van cat

Beautiful Turkish Van cat ; Shutterstock ID 254855317; Purchase Order: -
Turkish Van cats are known for their white bodies (Picture: Shutterstock)

You may not have heard of these cats before, but they fall into the list of the largest cat breeds. They have white bodies and marked tails and ears, and can weigh up to 20 pounds.

These cats can be domesticated and come from Turkey, where they’ve been dubbed ‘Swimming Cats’ as they love water (so no, there won’t be any issues bathing them!).

But if you’re wanting a cat who’s super cuddly, these cats may not be for you.

They’re known for being alpha cats, and are pretty fearless and don’t mind getting into trouble.

They’re also very independent. According to Calvert Animal Hospital, they may resist being picked up or carried. So if you’re wanting a cat that dotes on you, maybe you should look at getting a different breed.

These cats also need a lot of exercise – so they’re better as outdoor cats.

Of course, with any domestic cat, the main thing is that you look after them well and you keep them happy and give them what they need – which is a loving, happy and stress-free environment, filled with good food and the ability to roam as they please.

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What is the ‘dirty keto’ diet that lets you eat fast food three times a day?

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(Picture: hulksmashfood)

The keto diet must be one of the most popular diets this century.

We all know someone who actively swerves carbs in favour of a diet high in meaty protein and fats.

But if that sounds too much like unenjoyable, hard work, then how about trying the ‘dirty keto’?

Dirty keto essentially follows the same principals as original keto but it focuses almost exclusively on macro breakdown rather than where those macros come from.

It follows the principle of needing 60-75% of your daily calories from fat, 15-30% from protein and 5-10% from carbs – and as long as you meet those percentages, that’s all that matters.

So rather than going mad on nuts and steaks, you can opt for more processed foods like pork scratchings and cheese.

And while no one knows where the idea came from, there are whole digital communities dedicated to the diet…so clearly someone’s doing it.

Keto is all about getting your body to use fat as a form of energy (that’s ketosis), and you do that by minimising the amount of sugar you eat from carbs and focusing on healthy fats.

But dirty keto doesn’t care where your fats come from; fats are fats, regardless of whether they’re from a bunless cheeseburger or an avocado.

Sounds like a dream come true for all you fast food fiends, right?

Instagram Photo

While dirty keto will still get your body into a state of ketosis, it isn’t a healthy way to do it. In fact, it’s a one-way express ride to something known as the ‘keto flu’ – which is when you get IBS-like symptoms, feelings of lethargy, headache and muscle ache.

But if all you care about it getting your body used to using fat rather than sugar, then that can happen whichever keto method you use.

Don’t forget, however, that calories do still matter when it comes to keto and if all you’re doing is downing fatty burgers, then the chances are that you don’t be eating much because what you do consume will be so calorie dense.

Scott Keatley, RD of Keatley Medical Nutrition Therapy, tells Women’s Health that the dirty keto is a ‘temporary fix at best’.

At worst, it’s ‘a really good way to lose lean body mass that is difficult to get back and aids in maintaining a high functioning metabolism’.

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High Street Kensington McDonald’s branch to be turned into luxury reservations-only pop-up

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({Picture: McDonalds/Instagram)

Ah, nothing like a choice selection from McDonald’s to provoke the same competing flushes of satisfaction and boiling shame.

Predictable pleasures, with predictably guilt-ridden consequences.

The midnight Big Mac, the breakfast McMuffin scoffed in silence after dark on Zone 2 high streets, or on the concourse of Victoria Station at sunrise. One of life’s unchanging guilty pleasures.

Well not for long, at least not in the High Street Kensington branch, which is transforming into an exclusive, reservation-only pop-up for one night only on 15 August.

We know, it’s pretty tough to wrap your head around. However, it gets a bit more explicable when you consider it’s due to tie into the launch of the burger chain’s Signature Collection: a set of upmarket alternatives to the classic menus Quarter Pounders and Fillet O’ Fishes.

It’s an immersive experience designed to appeal to the Insta-happy crowd.

Anyone brave enough to book the VIP experience at High Street Ken will be ushered into the restaurant by the dulcet tones of a string quartet, and escorted to their table by dedicated waiters.

The menu might not be Michelin approved ultra-high-end, but it doesn’t sound too bad. Choose from a classic, BBQ or Spicy Signature Burger – served under a silver cloche by white-gloved butlers. We’re not quite sure if it extends to Coke Zero in crystalline decanters, though we wouldn’t be surprised at this juncture.

You’ll be pleased to know that it isn’t the first time old McD’s have road-tested a high-class concept; last Valentine’s Day witnessed the birth of the three course McValentine’s Night in Newcastle at 20 quid-a-head. Truly, we live in an age of wonders.

Where and when

Where: 108/110 Kensington High St, Kensington, London W8 4SG

When: 15 August 2018

How to book: To reserve a place at the luxury concept restaurant sign up here on 8 August 2018

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Freezing my eggs hasn’t guaranteed me a family, but I’ve given myself another option

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**Illustration request** Cervical health: This is what to expect if you're having a Lletz procedure (Rosy Edwards)
(Picture: Ella Byworth for Metro.co.uk)

One year ago, at the age 32, I made the most difficult decision of my life and ended my relationship with my fiance of five years.

Cue months of intensive self healing, learning to knit and watching the entire back catalogue of Gilmore Girls in a worryingly short amount of time.

Time, and the love of incredible friends, healed not all, but made the idea of leaving the house seem like a viable prospect. Eventually, the time came when I had to decide what I wanted the rest of my life to look like.

I was never the little girl who pushed dolls around the garden, but I knew I wanted children at some point. And after a lot of contemplation, I knew I wanted these children to be genetically mine.

I had also adopted the motto, ‘make good life decisions’.

Revelling in my newly unearthed independence and perspective, I wanted to make sure I didn’t settle with a new and equally unsuitable partner purely due to the fear that if I didn’t find someone straight away, I would miss the child-having boat.

And so, two weeks ago, I froze my eggs at a private clinic.

I have not frozen my eggs to delay having children, to ‘get me off the hook’ or to try and bypass the reality of my dwindling fertility.

After my initial consultation with the doctor, I had blood tests to check for any infectious diseases and to determine my ‘ovarian reserves’.

A test for anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) gives you an idea of your potential fertility, and your doctor can then tell you how this compares to other people your age.

I then had to get used to internal scans that go – that’s right – up your vagina. It’s uncomfortable, but not painful, and you can focus on counting ceiling tiles while the doctor counts the follicles in your ovaries.

I also had to get accustomed to injecting myself with hormones. This involved one or two infections into my stomach every day for two weeks.

The clinic will talk you through it, and order everything you need, but a friend on hand (who won’t faint) for moral support is recommended.

What I found more challenging was the bloating, lower abdominal aches and heavy feeling I experienced. The best way I can describe this is that I felt ‘ovary-y’ (girls, I hope that makes sense).

This lasted throughout the injection period, and for the week of recovery after the ‘harvesting’ procedure.

The most difficult element, however, was the psychological burden of what I was going through.

I kept working throughout the process, and ended up going to all of the appointments and tests by myself – all of which became more emotionally draining the more swollen and hormonal I became.

I also struggled with feeling different to the other women in the clinic, who were there for IVF. They each came with a nervous-looking partner, who dutifully held their hand and kissed their foreheads in support, leaving me feeling, well, lonely.

Ultimately, nothing in life is guaranteed – relationships, fertility, whether that carefully chosen avocado is actually ripe.

Today, we were all ‘warned by experts’ about the low success rates of egg freezing. The proportion of frozen eggs that lead to a live birth among women under 36 is reported as 8.2% and eggs can only be kept for 10 years.

Playing the numbers game, this means that, on average, freezing 12 eggs will result in one live birth.

egg scan
(Picture: Supplied by author)

Knowing this doesn’t make me regret my choice – I went into it knowing the success rates.

I have a medical background so I understand the reality, but I do think there is a duty of care to be upfront with these statistics, and ensure that women understand them.

It’s important that the core principle of egg freezing is clear: in short, it’s not a baby in the freezer. I have not frozen my eggs to delay having children, to ‘get me off the hook’ or try and bypass the reality of my dwindling fertility – all I have done is add an option.

It increased my chances of having my own children in the future a little, and that felt like an empowering thing to do.

In the news, in the clinic literature and in various conversations with people who don’t know me, the term ‘social egg freezing’ is often batted around.

I want to strongly challenge the stereotype that I have chosen to delay having children for social reasons, or that I have chosen to prioritise my career over finding a man and starting a family.

These things couldn’t be further from the truth – I actually changed career at the age of 30 to prioritise my personal life.

The fact is that despite all best intentions and a whole lot of love, sometimes relationships don’t work out and life doesn’t go the way you had planned. What’s important is to pick yourself up, dust yourself off and ‘make good life decisions’.

For me, one of these decisions was to freeze my eggs.

At 33, I now have 15 eggs sitting in a freezer, including little Arabella and Rickety (I named them with my friend while still rather drugged up) who are nestled together in cryosleep.

The truth is, I hope I never have to use them.

Because ultimately what I have learned is that I crave love, companionship and partnership, and my last ‘good life decision’ will be to hold on to that – from a partner, and from my friends and family – and remember what my childhood self already knew: that life isn’t all about pushing a pram around the garden.

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Former taxi factory transformed into a stunning eco home is now on sale for £750,000

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Former taxi factory transformed into stunning home HIGH STREET, BASSINGBOURN SG8 3 Bedroom | Freehold | 2 Baths | Outbuildings | Swimming Pool Guide price ??750,000 https://www.carterjonas.co.uk/property/for-sale/bassingbourn/cam170536/
(Picture: Carter Jones)

A former industrial building which was transformed into one of Britain’s first eco homes in the 90s has gone on the market for £750,000.

The building in Cambridgeshire, where the first London Taxis were built, was bought by an architect more than twenty years ago, who converted the building into an innovative home.

The inside of the home is absolutely stunning, with a swimming pool and wooden beam ceilings.

But to keep the industrial feel, there’s still large structural roof timbers and a polished concrete floor.

The owner and architect John Sargent introduced various eco-friendly features, including eco-lime render on the inside walls and recycling irrigation tanks for watering the garden.

Estate agents Carter Jonas said the property was one of Britain’s first eco houses.

Former taxi factory transformed into stunning home HIGH STREET, BASSINGBOURN SG8 3 Bedroom | Freehold | 2 Baths | Outbuildings | Swimming Pool Guide price ??750,000 https://www.carterjonas.co.uk/property/for-sale/bassingbourn/cam170536/
(Picture: Carter Jones)

The three bedroom home, in Bassingbourn, also has under-floor heating, cedar doors and an Italian designer kitchen, which features a large polished concrete island with black aluminium fronts on the cupboards, drawers and integrated appliance.

The main living area has a large open fireplace and doors opening to the swimming pool.

Even the dining table is beautiful – it’s set on a mobile galvanised frame and is being sold with the property.

Former taxi factory transformed into stunning home HIGH STREET, BASSINGBOURN SG8 3 Bedroom | Freehold | 2 Baths | Outbuildings | Swimming Pool Guide price ??750,000 https://www.carterjonas.co.uk/property/for-sale/bassingbourn/cam170536/
(Picture: Carter Jones)

The property has a guide price of £750,000 and is being sold via estate agents Carter Jonas.

Richard Hatch, partner at Carter Jonas, the agency selling the property, told MailOnline Property: ‘Converted from a former industrial building, where the first seventeen London Taxis were constructed until 1907, by the previous owners and vibrantly decorated by the current vendor, this truly unique and architect designed eco home really is one of a kind.

Former taxi factory transformed into stunning home HIGH STREET, BASSINGBOURN SG8 3 Bedroom | Freehold | 2 Baths | Outbuildings | Swimming Pool Guide price ??750,000 https://www.carterjonas.co.uk/property/for-sale/bassingbourn/cam170536/
(Picture: Carter Jones)

‘The open plan concept and high ceilings create a sense of space and the home has been completed to a very high specification throughout, striking an appealing balance between form and function.

‘The property’s history adds colour to its appeal – however it is the unique design, layout and unusual décor that buyers find most appealing.

‘The dining room looks out onto the pool, which is surrounded by tropical planting, just one example of how the current owner has injected her own style and imagination into this extraordinary home.’

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Plus-size pole dancer hits back at online trolls who called her a ‘pig’

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(Picture: PA Real Life)

A size 24 pole dancer who used to starve herself for days at a time has finally embraced her body, and is now hitting back at online trolls who called her a ‘pig’.

When 32-year-old Kimmi Leahy started pole dancing after the birth of her first child, Erebys, the mum-of-two was terrified that she’d be judged in class for being fat.

Now she pole dances four times a week and even has a pole at her home in North Gosford, Australia – and she’s learned to love her plus size body.

She said: ‘I feel powerful and free in a way I have never done before. Any hang ups I had about my body have disappeared.

‘Now, I strip down to my underwear without even thinking about it

‘I have realised all sizes can be sexy. Anyone can twerk around that pole, no matter what your size.’

Since she started dancing in 2010, Kimmi’s self-esteem has grown so much that she posts videos of her performing routines in underwear on social media.

Kimmi is proud of her figure (Collect/PA Real Life)
(Picture: PA Real Life)

Sadly, she’s had some nasty comments – but she has the confidence to ignore them.

She continued: ‘When I first got the comments I would feel really angry, but now I don’t pay attention, it’s a waste of time.

‘I just delete them. The pole is for everyone and it’s for no one to say what type of body type should be doing it.’

In her younger years, Kimmi, who is married to Shannon Leahy, 32, a full-time carer to their youngest son Caelus, four, admits she had an unhealthy relationship with food.

Between the ages of 15 and 24 – during which time she weighed between 10 and 17 stone – she would starve herself for days at a time, before binge eating and making herself sick.

‘The doctor said I had disordered eating, abnormal eating patterns which is not classed as an eating disorder,’ she said.

‘I hid it from my family and only told one friend and my now husband. I just was so insecure about how I looked and was desperate to be thin.

‘At school it was all about looking good, so I thought I should look a certain way with toned arms and legs and a flat stomach.

Kimmi now feels fantastic (Collect/PA Real Life)
Kimmi now feels fantastic (Picture: PA Real Life)

‘I would fast, binge and then purge, making myself sick. In six months, my weight dropped from 17 to 10 stone – a size 12 – which was slim for me.’

Kimmi’s husband tried to encourage her to be healthy, but, it was only when Kimmi fell pregnant with Erebys, now eight, that she realised she needed to change.

‘I really thought about my life and how I needed to be healthy and mentally well for my kids,’ she said.

‘Pole dancing was always something I wanted to do but never thought I looked the part.

‘It was only when my little one was six-months-old that my husband said I should have a go.’

After finding a local pole dancing class, Kimmi signed up for a session – which Shannon had to walk her in to, as she was so terrified.

She added: ‘I was scared I was going to be the fat one and everyone was going to look at me.’

After just one class, Kimmi felt amazing, saying it was the most fun she had ever had doing sport.

Kimmi is proud to be a size 24 pole dancer (Collect/PA Real Life)
(Picture: PA Real Life)

Immediately hooked, she signed up for more sessions there and then.

Initially, she would attend wearing long shorts and two T-shirts to cover herself up.

But over time, her confidence grew – and her outfits shrunk.

‘Gradually, I felt better about wearing skimpier clothes and now think nothing of stripping down to my underwear,’ she said.

After months of attending weekly sessions, Kimmi eventually bought a pole to practice on at home.

Now, she dances up to four times a week and her husband and family are her biggest fans.

‘Erebys has even signed up for pole classes for children because he sees how much fun I have whilst I am doing it,’ she said.

She has also undergone counselling to help her manage the unhealthy eating habits she’d previously struggled with.

She said: ‘I can’t actually believe how I used to feel about myself before, thinking I was fat and shouldn’t be showing off my body.

‘I want to show that plus size pole dancing can be done and anyone who is bigger and wants to give it a go should go for it.

‘It makes you feel amazing, empowered and so confident.’

If you have been affected by any of the issues in this article, you can get in touch with the national eating disorders charity Beat by calling 0808 0801 0677 or visit the website.

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