McMuffin fans, rejoice. The McDonald’s breakfast is back.

The fast-food chain announced that 42 restaurants across Ireland and the south east of England would start serving in the mornings again from today.

The chain closed all restaurants when lockdown was introduced in March but has slowly been reopening stores for drive-thru, delivery and a few for takeaway since May.

Alongside the announcement about breakfast, McDonald’s has released a list of 280 restaurants that will be open for walk-in customers for the first time from today, serving the main menu.

Until now, all restaurants have only been serving the main menu after 11am.

The food available on the breakfast menu is limited to ensure they can maintain social distancing so fans of wraps, bagels and porridge might be disappointed.

The menu includes bacon rolls, hash browns, McMuffins, the cheesy bacon flatbread, pancakes & sausage and pancakes & syrup.

Posting on social media, McDonald’s said: ‘We are pleased to annouce the return of the McMuffin in 42 pilot restaurants this week.

‘We are testing breakfast service in some of the restaurants we reopened in May across the South East of England and Ireland.

‘We are still operating with smaller teams in our kitchens to the menu will be limited and operating hours will vary.

‘We ask that you use contactless payment methods wherever possible and request that you cap your spend at £25.

‘Please bear with us as we begin this test – the safety of you and our teams is our priority.

‘Things will look a little different and it will take a little longer, but we really appreciate your continued patience and support.’

If this trial is successful, they hope to continue the roll out of the limited breakfast menu across stores.

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A Jordanian chef has come up with a novel way of creating sustainable face masks using leftover things from his own kitchen.

Omar Sartawi has a special technique to use aubergine skins to make a mouth and nose covering for people to use during the coronavirus pandemic.

Omar processes the strips of aubergine peel using a lot of salt to create a type of leather.

Then all he has to do is add the straps to turn them into face masks.

Jordanian designers Princess Nejla Asem and Salam Dajani took care of the aesthetic side of the designs, once Omar had perfected his process.

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The aubergine skins are actually sewn together using cotton thread to make them durable, and skin becomes as tough as leather, while still being breathable enough to wear on your face.

The best thing about these masks is that they are made entirely from sustainable materials, and could even help to reduce food waste by using up discarded aubergine peel.

Who knew this humble vegetable could have such an innovative use outside of the kitchen?

Do you have a story to share? We want to hear from you.

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Boots is launching a beauty deal this week to help rejuvenate your skin.

The Glow Up Skin Edit box features products from Soap & Glory, Burt’s Bees, No 7, L’Oreal, Garnier and Face Halo.

Boots says that if you were to buy each item full price in store, it would cost over £60.

You’ll be able to pick it up online or in 180 larger stores from Friday.

There are only 20,000 boxes available though so you’ll need to be quick to get the deal.

You’ll get:

• A Garnier Rose mini micellar water, 100ml size, which normally costs £2.50 at Boots.
• L’Oreal Paris pure clay glow mask, 50ml, usually £7.99.
• Soap & Glory bright & pearly Vitamin C skin cream, 30 ml, normally £14.
• Burt’s Bees lip balm, 4.25g, normally £3.99.
• No7 early defence glow activating serum, 30 ml, which is normally £25 but currently on offer for £10 at Boots.
• and a Face Halo reusable make-up remover, which is normally £7 at Boots.

Boots says: ‘You don’t have to jump on a plane this year to get that sun-kissed glow, be a glow getter all year round.

‘This luxury filled box is complete with full-sized and mini make-up and skin treats to take your glow-game from AM to PM.

‘Favourites include the L’Oreal Paris Pure Clay Glow Mask, enriched with a powerful blend of three clays, Kaolin, Montmorillonite and Ghassoul, and the No7 Early Defence Glow serum, which works to boost your skin’s natural renewal process, refine pores and make your skin glow.

‘These glow-enhancing must-haves can be used as part of your everyday routine or used individually when you feel as though your skin could do with a little boost.’

Set your alarms and keep an eye on this page if you want to grab one.

Do you have a story to tell?

Get in touch at MetroLifestyleTeam@metro.co.uk.

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Three weeks after primary schools began their phased reopening, secondary schools have followed suit. So, how’s it gone?

‘We’re pleased to get back to making a difference for young people’

For a school that teaches ‘anything is possible’, the Victory Academy in Chatham, Kent, has risen to the challenge of safely and successfully reopening after the pandemic.

One week after welcoming back Years 10 and 12, feedback from the parents has been very positive – but it’s the students who are most excited to be back.

‘I am really happy to be in school again,’ says Year 10 pupil Elstella, 15. ‘At first, I was nervous about coming in, but as soon as I saw my friends, I relaxed a bit. I was so pleased they were OK, because I have worried about them every day while I’ve been at home, even though we text a lot.’

Lockdown has been a tougher time for some than others. With higher than the national average levels of deprivation reflected within the Victory Academy community, it sometimes means that IT access is limited.

For performing arts student Elstella, mum Stella was pleased that classes could resume before summer to improve her daughter’s access to learning.

Says Elstella: ‘At home, it’s more difficult to work because I share my laptop with my older sister, who is studying for A-levels next year. At school, I have my own desk, which I love. Also, the teachers can explain the work I need to do before my GSCEs next year.’

Just as with the 68 Sixth Formers who returned last week, Elstella’s year group of 138 has been split into cohorts of no more than 15, hand picked according to student needs.

Last week, Elstella’s cohort was the first with full attendance – a triumph for the newly reopened Victory Academy. ‘We’ve been delighted with the numbers,’ says principal Mandy Gage. ‘We hope it will steadily increase as we reassure parents that it is safe to come back.

‘Cheering the first Year 10 student on to site was a fantastic moment for the staff. Just to see children back in the building – their appreciation of being back, being with friends and having face-to-face teaching – has made all our hard work worthwhile.’

Gage, 48, who is also director of education for the Thinking Schools Academy Trust, has implemented a ‘robust’ system of risk assessments for the return, which has involved constant communication with parents and students via telephone, newsletters and even doorstep visits where necessary.

Following the successful reopenings of 12 primary schools under the trust’s umbrella, many of the same safeguarding strategies were used to reopen its secondary schools, as CEO Stuart Gardner explains.

‘National data suggest that students from deprived backgrounds have been hardest hit in terms of mental health and wellbeing.

‘Now that our students are safely back on site, our priority is to re-establish a positive climate for learning, which includes overcoming any barriers, like anxiety or mental health challenges caused by the coronavirus crisis.

‘As such, we call our small learning cohorts “family bubbles” because they help students feel safe and supported in order to learn effectively.’

Instead of diving straight back into traditional lessons, bubble leads will guide students through the same work they would have been given at home to promote independent learning.

‘We want to be sure that what we do in the classroom follows on at home, especially as we approach summer,’ says Mandy Gage. ‘In school, we can provide bespoke intervention that supports this learning.’

Since speaking with families after students’ first day back, the feedback has been that children felt ‘safe and well supported’. But the challenge of overcoming all parents’ objections is not over yet.

‘Naturally, we have parents who still feel unsure,’ says Gage. ‘We invite those parents to site, once it’s empty, to see it for themselves.

‘I want them to be as confident as I am that we are going above and beyond – as a school and a trust – to ensure the safety of young people, because they matter to us as much as they do to them.’

‘It’s worked better than we hoped – the children have adapted well’

Three weeks ago, primary school head Andrea Parker was ‘desperately’ awaiting the reopening of Bonneville School in Lambeth, South London, after three months away.

Speaking from site last week, Parker said that it went better than they could have imagined: ‘I’m exceedingly proud of how it’s gone. It’s been a really slick operation.

‘The best part has been seeing the children’s reactions. They have been thrilled to see their friends and teachers – you can tell it meant so much.’

Previously, Parker – who is also lead headteacher for Jessop and Stockwell Primary Schools – spoke about the rigorous cleaning regulations, newly arranged classrooms and staggered timetables put in place across all three schools in preparation for the reopening earlier this month.

From watching the children, she has been impressed with how understanding they have been of the new measures, saying the UK Government’s ‘bubble’ strategy has become instinctive for the young ones.

‘We’re used to seeing the children go off in their little friendship groups at playtimes, but now the children stick to their full bubbles, and they are really supportive of each other within those groups – no child is left behind.’

Since successfully welcoming back 96 children to Bonneville in the first week, numbers have steadily increased to achieve between 50 and 80 per cent attendance across Reception, Year 1 and Year 6. ‘There was no reluctance in any of the schools – they were as excited as we were. In fact, many parents have been active in reassuring others who were initially uncertain,’ says Parker.

‘The parents themselves did a great job of preparing the children for what was to come, and the school supported that process with videos of the new set-up and subsequent newsletters. That communication and co-operation has really helped the routines stick.’

Parent Miriam Paridjanian admits that she had her reservations about sending ten-year-old daughter Rosa back, despite feeling reassured that Bonneville was ‘very well’ prepared.

‘We were apprehensive, obviously, but I was desperate for my daughter to go back, because she was getting a bit down at home.’

A qualified teacher herself, Paridjanian found homeschooling ‘challenging’, and says Rosa seemed ‘despondent and unmotivated’. ‘She is normally very bright and bubbly, but she just wasn’t happy,’ says Paridjanian.

‘Since we sent her back, she’s perked up so much – she’s like a different child. It’s made a difference to the whole family.’

A health expert has revealed a simple way to give your mushrooms a boost of vitamin D – meaning we can get more of it in our diets.

It couldn’t be easier. All you have to do is put your mushrooms in sunlight before eating them.

Nutritionist, Lily Soutter says this easy trick is a great way to give yourself a boost of vitamin D, which is vital in maintaining a strong immune system.

Lily teamed up with the Mushroom Bureau to educate people about the benefits of this unassuming vegetable and to share her advice on how to get the most out of them.

‘Vitamin D is a vital component to support our immune system and has a wealth of other benefits that help us care for our overall health too,’ says Lily.

‘From keeping our bones healthy, as it works to regulate our intake of calcium, magnesium and phosphorous, to improved resistance against certain diseases.’

Lily says the sunshine trick works because mushrooms have a similar skin to that of humans.

‘Mushrooms naturally contain provitamin D and once in contact with the sun, they absorb vitamin D almost instantly, boosting their vitamin D content naturally,’ she explains.

‘Whilst enriched mushrooms will naturally come with a greater vitamin D content, you can easily add a natural dose of vitamin D to the regular British or Irish mushrooms by simply placing them on a windowsill when the sun is at its strongest between 10 am and 3 pm for around 15-120 minutes.’

It really couldn’t be simpler.

Speaking about the meat-free alternative, Soutter reveals that mushrooms are one of the only foods that vegans can source vitamin D from naturally.

‘With a short shelf life, mushrooms last a maximum of nine days before they lose their vitamin content, due to their high respiration rate,’ she adds. ‘Shopping the freshest, locally sourced mushrooms that have travelled fewer miles will ensure you consume the most nutritious mushrooms available.

‘By checking the label and seeking out mushrooms from Britain and Ireland, we can enjoy nutrient-dense fresh mushrooms with a lower carbon footprint, all whilst supporting local farmers – it really is a win-win for all.’

Recent reports have suggested that one in five of us are deficient in vitamin D, so any techniques to boost our diets are welcome.

‘Simply sourcing locally and making the most of the sunnier months ahead could help you and your family get that daily dose of vitamin D,’ said a spokesperson for the Mushroom Bureau.

‘As well as this, keep an eye out in store for “Vitamin D” highlighted labels on packs as another way of getting that much-needed vit-hit.’

Do you have a clever food tip to share? We want to hear from you.

Get in touch: metrolifestyleteam@metro.co.uk.

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The UK heatwave has arrived just in time for National Picnic Week – which means people will be hitting parks and beauty spots with an assortment of edible goodies.

In perfect time, M&S has just brought out a must-have picnic essential – a deliciously creamy burrata.

Whether you like it with tomatoes, alongside a hunk of crusty bread or drizzled with oil, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the decadent cheese.

The supermarket’s first ever burrata ball is priced at £2.75 for 150g.

Made from cow’s milk, the cheese features an outer shell made from solid mozzarella, while the inside is a combination of stracciatella and cream.

Burrata originated in the Apulia region in Southern Italy and has since become one of the country’s most beloved cheeses – mainly for its rich taste and unusual, soft texture.

It seems M&S was fully prepared for National Picnic Week, as burrata isn’t the only new product hitting stores.

The supermarket has also launched a new range of picnic accompaniments, including pickled red onions, pickled spiced cauliflower and carrot and ginger relish – all priced between £1 and £1.50 per jar.

It’s also brought out a new kind of fruit to spice up UK picnics – a ‘limelon.’

As the name suggests, the limited edition hybrid fruit tastes like a melon with a hint of lime and is priced at £3 per piece.

Pret has also just launched three new food platters – perfect for summer picnics.

There are three to choose from, with a smoked salmon and avocado platter, a Ploughman’s platter and a humous and crudités platter – and all are designed to be shared between two.

Do you have a food story to share?

Get in touch at MetroLifestyleTeam@metro.co.uk.

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As lockdown measures continue to be eased across the country, life is slowly starting to return to normal in the UK.

And nothing reflects the return to reality quite like the reopening of McDonald’s and the relaunch of its breakfast menu, which the chain will now serve in 42 restaurants across Ireland and the south-east of England.

What will they be serving, and which items are still off the menu?

What items are missing from the McDonald’s breakfast menu?

While hash browns, pancakes, McMuffins and the cheesy bacon flatbread will all be available, porridge, bagels and Breakfast Wraps won’t be returning – yet.

Announcing the changes in an email to customers, Paul Pomroy, chief executive officer for McDonald’s UK and Ireland said: ‘As with our main menu, we will have a limited menu at breakfast but we’ve kept the classics – hash browns, McMuffins and pancakes all return.

‘Unfortunately, whilst adhering to social distancing guidelines, we are unable to serve porridge, bagels and our Breakfast Wrap.

‘This is because we have fewer people in the kitchen.’

The fast food chain reiterated this on social media, today tweeting: ‘We are pleased to annouce the return of the McMuffin in 42 pilot restaurants this week.

‘We are still operating with smaller teams in our kitchens to the menu will be limited and operating hours will vary.

‘We ask that you use contactless payment methods wherever possible and request that you cap your spend at £25.’

If the pilot is successful, more branches will introduce the breakfast menu.

It’s not yet clear when the missing items will be reintroduced, but there’s plenty of other items to wrap your chops around in the meantime.

See the full list below:

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It is just after 4am and a text message comes in from Jed*, one of our clients: ‘Can you talk?’

I am on the early shift at our Suicide Crisis Centre – a safe place which is designed to provide essential face to face support for people in crisis.    

Jed has never contacted us in the early hours before, and I am really concerned. A call allows me to provide an immediate intervention to help him stay alive.

Creating a strong connection is a vital part of this. But Jed still sounds so detached and disconnected.

It is clear that phone support will not be enough to keep him safe. He needs face to face help.        

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Although we’ve adapted our services to help most of our clients who call in during the pandemic, it is not the same as being in the same room with someone.  

It can be difficult to assess whether people are a threat to themselves comprehensively without seeing them; a person’s body language can reveal so much more than they say with words.

For this reason, we have carried on with home visits in cases where suicide risk is considered high and I am on my way to Jed’s house within the hour.

It must be so hard for clients to open the door and see my mask-covered face, but we have to keep everyone safe. Once we are sitting two metres apart, I gently take off my mask, and Jed looks suddenly visibly moved as this barrier between us is lifted.

It feels very symbolic. I see tears forming in his eyes. He can show emotion now and his own personal barriers start to dissolve. Finally we can start to connect as we used to.

The two metre distance can still feel strange and unnatural at times though, when you are with a client who is highly distressed. As I sit with Jed, I recall that I instinctively placed my hand upon his when I supported him during his previous crisis. 

I wish I could that now, as his tears fall.

Although I am quite cautious about using touch when supporting clients, there are times when holding someone’s hand or giving them a hug seems absolutely right.

It is such a powerful way of providing comfort, emphasising connection and giving a strong message that ‘I am here for you and you are not alone in this’.

Back then, we built a strong connection through non-verbal communication, expression and human warmth, so I knew that meeting with him in person this time too was a must.

Lockdown has had a severe impact on many people’s mental health. They have become disconnected and isolated. As humans we are not designed to live in this way. Many people calling us are desperate for physical contact.

It can be hard to decide who needs face-to-face support, rather than through the phone. Previously we could offer this to everyone.

In the days after the lockdown was extended, we had a 40 per cent increase in calls to our crisis service

After getting back from speaking with Jed, I phone Graham*, who we have been supporting for the past couple of weeks. He has been experiencing severe agitation and he comments that my voice calms him.

I feel reassured that I am able to help him to return to a calmer and safer place.

The week before, when he was extremely distressed, I had wished I was there in person. Instead, we managed to get by with a series of phone calls over the night, which helped him through.

The pressure to make the right judgment call is intense – whether to go out in person. We have their life in our hands at that point.  

Coronavirus has changed life immensely, and everyone – including our organisation – is trying to adapt.

There is also a lot of anger from our clients. They express frustration about their individual situations, but I think the unspoken rage is against the virus, for the way it has damaged lives.

After speaking to Graham I get a call from a female client called Charlie*. Every other word she swears. She is so fearful and feels so desperate about her current situation.

We understand anger and how to work with it. But it is the extent and frequency of it that we are witnessing during the COVID-19 crisis that is different.

Fear, loss, shock or at times a sense of powerlessness and injustice have shaped people’s mental health significantly.

There will be a huge need for ongoing mental health care in the coming months, and at the moment most psychiatric services are operating at a reduced level, so this needs to be increased as soon as possible.

We have seen a marked rise in the number of people needing our suicide crisis services.

In the days after the lockdown was extended, calls to our crisis service went up by 40 per cent.

The reduction in face to face support has sometimes made me feel that I can’t fully do the job I am meant to do. I instinctively want to be with our clients when they are experiencing such emotional pain.

Recently, I ended up in a graveyard after going to clear my head after a particularly difficult day. I noticed the names on the gravestones and the loving inscriptions chosen by the family members left behind.

I spent some time beside my own loved one’s grave; I always place my hand on it whenever I visit, in the place where their heart would be.

When I do it, I feel my touch represents connection. It reminds me of how important it is in my job and how much work there’s still to be done among the living.  

*Names have been changed

Joy Hibbins is the founder and CEO of Suicide Crisis, a charity which runs Suicide Crisis Centres. She is the author of Suicide Prevention Techniques.

Do you have a story you’d like to share? Get in touch by emailing jess.austin@metro.co.uk

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More than half of UK pet owners are leaving them unprotected in the sun, despite warnings from vets – according to a new study.

New research has found that 51% of pet owners admit to never using sun protection on their animals, with a further third (33%) saying they only do this sometimes.

This is in spite of warnings from vets about the dangers of skin cancer and irritation from prolonged sun exposure as UK temperatures soar.

The research, carried out by pet food brand, Webbox, found that fewer than one in five (15%) people say they always use sun protection on their pets when exposing them to the sun for an extended period of time.

The research also revealed only 17% of dog owners said they always apply sun cream to their dogs before letting them outside in the sun. This is particularly concerning as French Bulldogs are the second most popular breed in the UK, and among the breeds that are most at risk of sun damage.

Interestingly, those with both a cat and a dog are more likely to protect their pets against the sun than those with only one pet, with one fifth (20%) saying they always apply sun cream to their pets.

Cat owners are the least likely to ensure their pets are protected, with 69% admitting to never applying sun cream. 

Pet owners aged 25-34 are the most likely to be protecting their pets, as more than a quarter (28%) say they always ensure their pet is wearing sun protection.

However, it is those aged 65 and over who are falling short, with 75% saying they never put sun cream on them.

Commenting on the findings Camille Ashforth, Senior Brand Manager at Webbox, says: ‘With temperatures in the UK continuing to rise year on year, it is shocking that half of pet owners in the UK are not protecting them from the sun, especially when the impact of sun damage can be extremely unpleasant for your pets and lead to life-threatening conditions.

‘We hope by sharing this research, owners will ensure that during the summer months, when applying sun cream to the family, they do not forget to protect their beloved pets as well.’

How to protect your pets during a heatwave

‘Dogs and cats are prone to getting sunburns and skin cancer, just like people, but pet owners can easily protect their pets with some simple steps,’ says Dr Heather Venkat, from VIP Puppies.

‘Limit prolonged exposure to direct sun, and give your pet frequent breaks and access to shade.

‘If your pet has shorter fur, especially if it is white, their pink skin will be more likely to burn.

‘Dab small amounts of pet-safe sun creams and balms on your pet’s nose or bare areas that will be more exposed to sunlight, such as the tips of their ears.

‘Some dogs will try to lick the sunscreen off, which is why it is important to never use a sun cream designed for people, which can be toxic and upsetting to their stomachs.’

Dr Heather says that the number one rule is to not shave your long-coated dog in the summer.

‘It can actually make them more hot and prone to sunburns due to the loss in protection of their insulating layers of fur,’ she explains.

Do you have an animal story to share? We want to hear from you.

Get in touch: metrolifestyleteam@metro.co.uk.

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A white model who has had melanin injections to change the colour of her skin says she now identifies as Black.

German native Martina Big, 32, who was born with blonde hair and pale skin, has undergone a complete transformation, changing her hair, skin, breasts and name in a bid to become a ‘Black woman’.

The model even got baptised in Kenya last year and now goes by the name of Malaika Kubwa.

Martina also says she stands by the Black Lives Matter protests and condemns white people for ‘exploiting’ the Black community.

‘Unfortunately, many Black people are treated like second class people,’ she said.

‘I think it’s right that people protest loudly against these grievances because this is the only way to point out the broad dimensions of these abuses and to indirectly exert pressure on politicians and other people in influential positions.

‘Since I became a Black woman, I have worked intensively to learn more about the culture and history of Black people.’

But, Martina says, she is against any form of violent protesting, and condemned businesses being set on fire and cars being demolished.

She also said that while she is in favour of dismantling racist statues, it should be done without force.

As a ‘former white woman’, Martina said she cannot sympathise with white people who disagree with the Black Lives Matter protests.

She said: ‘To condemn the Black people for just demonstrating against being treated as second class people. It cannot go on that white people lead a better life by exploiting and oppressing Black people.’

Speaking of slavery and police brutality against the Black community, Martina condemned both as ‘cruel and unjust’.

Martina said that the three police officers who ‘stood by and watched’ when George Floyd died should be severely punished.

The model also hit out at US President Donald Trump, who she said has never sympathised with Black people during his tenure.

While Martina is yet to join in with any BLM protests herself, she said she has been vocal about her support on Facebook.

‘I wrote several times in my posts and comments that I found the police brutality and the violence against the Black community intangible and I try to encourage my Black brothers and sisters,’ she said.

The model said she has also reached out to her Black friends to offer them support during these difficult times and revealed one of her fans died during the demonstrations.

She continued: ‘One of my Black friends had planned to visit the US on their next vacation.

‘But now that it has become clear how intense racism towards Black people is there.’

Asked if she herself had ever experienced any form of racism, Martina said she considers herself lucky not to have been on the receiving end of it.

‘I am very well known in the media, so people are more aware of being racist towards me because they are afraid that their behaviour would be publicised in the press. 

‘I am always on the road with my husband Michael and he is not only a useful helper but also my bodyguard,’ she added.

Do you have a story?

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A few years ago, Joe Whale was told off for doodling at school, but now his artistic skills have landed him a deal to illustrate three kid’s books at just 10 years old.

His parents Vanessa and Greg sent him to an after-school art class after he got told off for doodling when he was bored and there, his teacher was so impressed with his work, she asked his parents if she could put it on Instagram.

His creations attracted an army of fans around the world leading him to be affectionately nicknamed ‘The Doodle Boy’.

Last year, a local restaurant hired him to create a huge mural on the wall of their dining room.

This week a US publisher has asked him to illustrate a series of children’s books with the first being published globally next year. At the minute, the details are secret but Joe and his family hope to be able to reveal more soon.

Joe, from Shrewsbury, Shropshire, said: ‘It feels very good. I’m really proud of myself.

‘It is one of the main things I’ve wanted – to do a book.

‘I’ve seen all the illustrated books in stores and it will be amazing to have my own book on the shelves.

‘The main thing I draw is scenes – those are my favourite. I love drawing beaches and forests and that sort of stuff.

‘I have a few characters in my doodles but my focus is on monsters and aliens.’

He doodles every day in his spare time, before school, at lunchtime or in the afternoon.

He said: ‘I have always drawn all my life since I was two or three.

‘I started doodling when I was six or seven when I wanted to change my style. It has worked out really well.

‘I definitely want to be an artist. It is one of the most relaxing things I do.

‘When I’m angry I go to my room and start doodling. It makes me feel happy.’

His fame on social media has led to lots of opportunities for Joe in the last few years.

He recently spent a week in the US illustrating the set of TV show Little Big Shots.

Joe added: ‘My dad asked if I wanted to do it (the TV show set) and I was like “Dad, of course I want to do it” and since then that’s pushed me to do what I love and I think that’s sort of what I’m going to do.

‘I just keep telling myself, do what you love, do what you love, doodle.

‘I don’t really think about what I’m doing, I just go ahead with it and just create from my mind. I don’t really plan, I just do what I’m feeling.’

Proud dad Greg Whale, 40, said: ‘He has got a book deal in place but I can’t say who that is with at the moment. The publisher wants to announce it themselves.

‘It is a global book deal for a series of heavily illustrated children’s books. We think there may be three, at least two.

‘The first book will come out in the middle of next year, so Joe will start work shortly.’

The sales manager has two other children with Aussie partner-of-23 years Vanessa Jameson – Joe’s twin brother Jessie and a six-year-old daughter Phoebe.

Greg added: ‘At the minute we are going to stay in the UK, but it depends on what happens in the next 12 months.

‘It is amazing for him. Everything I have done over the last six months has been to build towards him having the choice really to do what he wants to do.

‘Art is overlooked quite badly in this country I feel.

‘This gives opportunities to the other children as well. That is my main aim.

‘Because the talks about the book finished over lockdown we hadn’t had the chance to talk to the school so I’ll explain it to them when he goes back.

‘I have got no worries really because they have been supportive of him before and I expect they will be again.

‘He definitely doesn’t get it from me, I’ve always loved art, I’m fairly good at art but only on a realistic scale, the imagination is more from his mum’s side.’

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All sorts of classes have gone online during this pandemic.

That includes dance lessons for the little ones too.

Parents of children going to virtual classes know how chaotic it can get (be sure to move all the lamps and vases out of the way).

But one school decided to ask the parents to get involved.

The Patricia Veale School of Dance has been hosting video classes for students for months.

But they invited dads, grandfathers and stepdads for a special session, to celebrate Father’s Day.

Teacher Kelly Clarey hosted the class via Zoom and asked the families to video their living-room lessons.

The clips show determined dads getting to grips with pirouettes and pliés – and quickly realise it’s much harder than their sons and daughters make it look.

Some of the dads enjoyed it so much they joined for further video classes with the dance school in York.

Kelly said: ‘I’ve been a dance teacher for over 30 years, and I had never had such a fun and relaxed class.

‘It was a great bonding opportunity for our students and their parents.

‘It has been one of the best teaching experiences ever.’

The school does classes for pre-school children up to grade five ballet, and also jazz, tap, and modern dance.

That’s one way for dads to keep fit in lockdown.

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My friend Astrid called the other week. We last spoke before coronavirus emerged — a time, even with all its horrors and injustices, we now refer to as ‘normal’.

Among all the catch-up questions, she asked, ‘Have you met someone yet?’ When I replied no, it was both truthful and a white lie. 

After all, I hadn’t just met one man, but two – and all three of us are now happily living the polyamorous life together in lockdown.

For the sake of anonymity, let’s call my boyfriends Adam and Steve (just to shock any horrified readers further).

In winter last year, I met Adam through a gay app. After hanging out in both bars and bedrooms, we realised we got on like a house on fire. That’s when Adam introduced me to Steve, his boyfriend and suggested that if we got on well too, they could transition from an open relationship to a three-person relationship that included me. 

None of us had ever tried polyamory before, but with open minds, we wanted to explore if it could work. 

It did: I’d go over to their place on the weekends, and they’d come to mine in the middle of the week. We even went to Lisbon for a long weekend after Christmas. And it all felt easier and far more natural than any of us had anticipated.

Four months later, countries began going into lockdown and it looked like the UK would follow suit. 

Despite being fiercely independent (read: I lived by myself) and an introvert who needs as much time alone as with others, I discussed staying with Adam and Steve – who already lived together – for its duration.

Although I was initially worried I’d be a nightmare to live with as I’d gotten used to being on my own, what caused more distress was the possibility of not seeing Adam and Steve — my two, fully-fledged boyfriends — for an unknown amount of time if I stayed in my flat. 

So I grabbed my essential items, locked the door behind me, and went.

Polyamory has its positives when it comes to the more mundane parts of life, like household chores

As I’m sure everyone thinks right now, lockdown has felt like it’s been going on for six months rather than three. But the feeling of time dragging on hasn’t been due to a bad atmosphere between Adam, Steve, and I. In fact, it’s our time together that’s vastly improved ‘these unprecedented times’. 

What’s surprised me most, as somebody who had previously only practiced monogamy, is the utter absence of jealousy. Open displays of affection between Adam and I, or Adam and Steve (and so on), aren’t met with a withering glance from the other person as if to say: ‘Why aren’t I involved?’

Acts of displaying love are encouraged — as they should be. (And, yes, the same sentiment applies to sex: It happens as-and-when, with any one of us, and without a scoreboard being kept of who’s slept with whom.)

Polyamory has its positives when it comes to the more mundane parts of life, like household chores. In my previous monogamous relationships, there was always a tit-for-tat game of ‘I cleaned the bathroom so it’s your turn to do the kitchen!’

What makes it much simpler as a throuple, I guess, is that our domestic activities don’t rely on two people equally pulling their weight, but rather three. 

Lockdown has also allowed me, Adam and Steve to build ourselves a cosy bubble that will inevitably pop when lockdown lifts.

Generally, we work from home Monday to Friday, and spend the evenings trawling Netflix for a half-decent show to watch. Then Steve goes food shopping on Saturday morning, and we spend the rest of the weekend exploring Amazon Prime for a half-decent show to watch.

It’s been like a Big Brother-esque experiment to see if three gay men’s relationship could thrive during a pandemic. And it has.

The occurrence of Covid-19 and the subsequent lockdown has provided many of us with the chance to re-evaluate our lives and reflect. Looking back on my time in lockdown with Adam and Steve, it’s only confirmed my belief that testing the waters of polyamory was the right decision.

Although it’s far harder in 2020 to imagine what the future looks like, what I do know is that, in terms of my future, the polyamorous relationship I have with Adam and Steve will play a hugely positive, fundamental part in it.

Now we know we live well together, there’s the strong possibility that living under one roof will continue long after the pandemic. And once lockdown does lift fully, we’ll go back to experiencing the outside world as a throuple.

However, unsuspecting onlookers won’t know that — they’ll simply assume we’re just good friends.

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Burger King has announced not one but two new additions to its menu – both with a cheesy twist.

Despite currently operating with a reduced menu, the fast food giant has revealed that it will be introducing a brand new burger and an old fan favourite.

The newbie burger set to launch on menus will be the Halloumi Bacon King, which comes with crispy bacon, two golden-fried halloumi patties and a brioche bun with lettuce, mayonnaise and a fresh slice of tomato.

Cheese lovers will also be thrilled to hear that the Halloumi King Burger is making a comeback after a successful launch last year. The old favourite is very similar to the bacon version – but obviously comes without the meat.

However, while the Halloumi King is advertised as a meat-free option, it is cooked in the same oil as chicken and fish – so is not entirely suitable for vegetarians.

Both burgers can be ordered on their own, or as part of a meal alongside the chain’s signature fries and a drink of choice.

Katie Evans, marketing director at Burger King UK, said: ‘We are so pleased to be able to start expanding our menu again as we continue to ease out of lockdown with our phased re-opening plan.

‘You asked, we listened and now we can finally bring a dose of much-needed joy with the return of our very popular Halloumi King Burger and brand-new Halloumi Bacon Burger, just in time for summer.’

In other food news, M&S has just launched a brand new product perfect for summer picnics: a deliciously creamy burrata.

Likewise, Pot Noodle has surprised fans by launching a new range of ‘potless’ noodles – without the brand’s signature container.

Do you have a food story to share?

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Kate Ovens is quite the food blogger – she is known for conquering large feasts by herself.

And now the 26-year-old has taken on one of Britain’s biggest fish and chips meals – a 4,000 calorie feast enough to feed a family-of-five.

Kate polished off the whopping 32oz cod and mountain of chips, five times the usual serving, in just 30 minutes – and she finished off with a pint to wash it down.

The blogger was challenged to take on the estimated 4,000 calorie feast by Ancell’s Fish and Chips in Kate’s hometown of Fleet, Hampshire.

The tasty treat was so large that it had to be served on a tray, because the cod fillet measured 24 inches long.

She says she would’ve completed it much quicker, had she not savoured every bite of the delicious meal.

Kate said: ‘I’ve had fish and chips from Ancell’s a couple of times since they re-opened, so when they offered to create this challenge just for me, I jumped at the chance.

‘It was so big, they couldn’t wrap it up, so I had to take it home in the tray.

‘The batter was crisp and crunchy, and the fish was flaky – it was perfect.

‘I had to switch things up with the curry sauce towards the end, but it was a delight.’

Kate took on the colossal cod and chips, served with mushy peas, curry sauce and even gravy, for a Facebook video that has already been viewed more than two million times in just a week.

She said: ‘I can’t stress just how much I enjoyed this challenge.

‘It was a bit daunting at first, because I didn’t know where to start, but once I got stuck in, every bite was a delight.

‘They created this challenge just for me, so it’s not available to the public.

‘The cod fillet was absolutely huge, but after the first bite, I knew I’d be able to conquer this challenge, because it was absolutely delicious.

‘I wasn’t timing myself, but it took about 30 minutes to finish because I really wanted to savour every bite.’

Kate is famed for taking on huge food challenges, including a three-foot long sausage roll, and Britain’s biggest hotdog.

Her food challenge videos regularly get millions of views online, and she has more than 230,000 followers on her Facebook fan page.

Kate has received thousands of comments on her newest video, and is already planning her next challenge.

She said: ‘It’s been great to support my local chippy.

‘I think they’re really important for communities, and I was very glad to see Ancell’s had reopened.

‘I’ve been training quite hard while in isolation, so I’ve got a lot of ideas for upcoming challenges.

‘I’m normally about balance and eating as healthy as possible, but if I’m never going to say no to great fish and chips.’

Do you reckon you could take this on?

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One of the only things more delicious than an Oreo is a fried Oreo. Especially when said fried Oreo is made using an air fryer, cutting down on the oil and mess.

YouTube chef Rob Nixon has shared his recipe for an indulgent battered biscuit, and all you need is a few ingredients and an air fryer.

Air fryers have exploded in popularity in recent years due to their ease and the health benefit compared to deep frying. You can get crispy chips with no oil and even make ‘bacon’ from carrots.

Air fried desserts had always eluded us, but thanks to Rob’s easy recipe, we can wow our guests at our socially distanced garden gatherings.

As well as your fryer, you’ll need self-raising flour, Greek yoghurt, milk and a packet of Oreo biscuits (although it would work with others).

The Aussie chef, in a now-viral YouTube video, mixed a cup of flour with a cup of yoghurt and a teaspoon of milk until thick and sticky.

Once the dough is made, take out a piece that’s around the size of a golf ball and press the Oreo into it. Fold the excess around the cookie until it’s completely enclosed.

Next, fry them at 200C for five minutes, then turn and leave to cook for another three minutes.

They’re ready when they’re brown and crispy, and you can cover in icing sugar and chocolate syrup.

Rob, who runs channel Nicko’s Kitchen, says you can get creative with the type of biscuit you use, but make sure to put any chocolate-coated ones in the freezer first so they don’t melt.

Other than that, you’re free to fry, just without the added calories and greasiness you might expect.

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A four-year-old British shorthair named Pitoe was almost euthanised as a kitten because no one wanted her.

The sweet kitty who has severe scoliosis was bought into a veterinary by a pet vendor who thought no one would want a cat with a crooked back.

But thankfully veterinarian Marie thought otherwise.

Instead of putting Pitoe down, Marie decided that her grandparents could provide the perfect home to the chonky-looking cat.

The grandparents were looking for a low maintenance kitty and with Pitoe being unable to walk properly due to an ineffective hind leg, she became the perfect choice.

Although Pitoe looks big, she isn’t actually overweight, her body is just short and round due to her condition.

Marie is delighted to have introduced her grandma and granddad to the cat and has started an Instagram page marvelling at the cat’s day-to-day life.

Marie wrote about Pitoe on Reddit where she shared an X-ray showing the curvature of the cat’s spine.

She wrote: ‘My grandparents — who adore animals — had wanted a cat for a while but were afraid to get one, as they feared it might jump over the balcony of their apartment and harm itself.

‘My mum realised that Pitoe, due to her scoliosis, would probably be a very calm kitty.’

Though the curve in her spine prevents her from jumping, Pitoe is still an animated cat who can ‘waddle, run, play, and climb like a pro’.

Marie added: ‘She’s absolutely spoiled rotten, to be honest, as most of the day [my grandparents] are at home.

‘So most of their attention goes to little Pitoe, and she’ll gladly accept it.’

Marie continued: ‘She is well taken care of, gets loads of follow up and – most importantly – is happy and pain-free.’

We’re so happy for Pitoe.

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There’s an art to choosing your dating profile pictures.

And if you’re a man hoping to date a woman, science says it’s best to leave your cat out of the picture.

A study by Colorado State University showed that responses were noticeably worse for men with pictures of cats.

The researchers showed 708 women aged 18 to 24 pictures of two men with and without a feline friend through an online survery.

For one man, 38% of the women asked said they were likely or very likely to causally date him, and 37% said they would consider a serious relationship of him.

But as soon as they were shown a picture of the same man with a cat, the numbers dropped to 33% for each category.

The percentage of women who said they would never have any sort of relationship with him rose from 9% to 14%.

For the second man, 40% said they would be unlikely or certain not to date him but this rose to 45% when he was pictured with a cat.

Previous studies have shown pictures of dogs in a dating profile can help get a date but this study says the opposite is true for men and their cats.

The authors of the Colorado State University study wrote: ‘Prior research suggests that women view pet owners as more attractive and dateable than non-pet owners; however, this effect was strongest with dog owners.

‘We hypothesized that men posing with cats would be more attractive than those posing alone.

‘Women viewed men as less masculine when holding the cat; higher in neuroticism, agreeableness, and openness; and less dateable.

‘These findings suggest that pets continue to play a role in women’s mate choices and dating preferences, but that a closer look at the effects of different species of pets is warranted.’

Of course, the study only looked at a small group of women who want to date men so it’s impossible to say it’s the same for everyone – there’s sure to be someone out there who will love you with and without the cat.

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While many industries have been given the green-light to reopen in England from July 4, questions remain about when the nation might be able to step foot in the gym again.

Boris Johnson told the Commons on Tuesday that from this date, ‘most leisure facilities and tourist attractions will reopen if they can do so safely, including outdoor gyms and playgrounds, cinemas, museums, galleries, theme parks and arcades.’

So outdoor gyms are open, personal training sessions are a go, but what about indoor gyms?

When will gyms reopen in the UK?

No official date has been given for the re-opening of indoor gyms, although it’s now clear they won’t open on July 4.

However, it appears as though they could open within the month, with the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Oliver Dowden, writing on Twitter that – all going well – facilities could open from ‘mid-July.’

Following the PM’s announcement to reopen other industries from 4 July, he tweeted: ‘Many people keen to hit the gym & keeping Britain fit is key in Covid battle.’

‘We’ve made lots of progress & I know steps businesses have taken to make their spaces & equipment safe.

‘Subject to public health, our aspiration is to reopen gyms & leisure facilities in mid-July.’

Huw Edwards, the chief executive of UK Active (a company which represents thousands of gyms and leisure centres) said they are in ‘conversations with the Government to establish a clear roadmap to reopening.’

He also emphasised they are keen to get the sector moving.

‘Many people will be understandably frustrated by the decision not to reopen the fitness and leisure sector from 4 July,’ he said.

‘Our sector’s safety standards are among the highest in Europe, where other nations have already reopened their gyms and leisure facilities safely. 

‘We have invited Government and health officials to visit any of the hundreds of gym and leisure centre show sites across the country, and witness how facilities would operate with thorough social distancing measures and hygiene standards in place. 

‘Any further delay to our reopening will threaten our nation’s recovery from Covid-19. With obesity the second largest cause of hospitalisation from this virus, gyms and leisure centres are equipped to not only combat Covid-19, but to support rehabilitation for those recovering from the virus.’

The Government’s decision not to reopen on July 4 has also been heavily criticised by CEO of David Lloyd Glenn Earlam, who said 80 per cent of his clubs have been prepping to reopen for July 4, with furloughed staff being brought back and social distancing measures put in place.

PureGym also said it was ready to reopen and released a video of what it would look like under the ‘new normal.’

Sean McCoy, CEO of GearJunkie previously told Metro.co.uk about some of the changes people might expect to see when they return to the gym, such as the removal of changing rooms, temperature swabbing on arrival and fewer machines.

‘Where possible, expect to see glass dividers in-between equipment, as well as a reduction in machines on the gym floor to reduce the number of gym goers,’ he said. 

‘It is likely that gyms will ask members to stagger their visits and allocate times in order to avoid ques awaiting entry.’

Why aren’t gyms reopening on July 4?

Gyms are not reopening because they are deemed a ‘close proximity’ venue, together with night clubs, soft play areas, swimming pools and spas.

The PM said: ‘Close proximity venues such as nightclubs, soft-play areas, indoor gyms, swimming pools and spas will need to remain closed for now, as will bowling alleys and water parks.’

He added: ‘Business and Culture Secretaries will establish taskforces with public health experts and these sectors to help them become Covid-secure and re-open as soon as possible.’

While sports are allowed, indoor facilities including changing rooms and courts remain shut.

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We’re all getting more used to the new normal and we’re all expecting to see screens, masks and gloves everywhere to protect us as things reopen following the coronavirus lockdown.

Yesterday, PureGym revealed what working out will be like at their gyms.

But elsewhere, people are taking safety during exercise even more seriously.

A pop-up yoga studio has created individual domes in an open space outside a hotel in Toronto, Canada.

LMNTS Outdoor Studio set up 50 of the domes at Hotel X in the city, each one measuring seven feet wide and 12 feet tall.

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Yoga fans can follow the moves demonstrated by an instructor on a raised podium, who can provide instructions through an audio system.

Each person will have their temperature checked and asked if they have any symptoms before the class and each dome is cleaned and sanitised before someone else uses it.

Everyone also has to sign up in advance and show photo ID to enter to ensure that they are able to track and trace everyone there if anyone does develop symptoms.

Participants have to bring their own mat, water bottle and towel but they can buy them there if they forget – it costs extra and they must take them away at the end of the class.

Of course, most yogis are more used to virtual classes by now but the solution gives you a little more space to stretch out than your living room as there is over 110 square feet of space inside each one.

Classes are sold in blocks of three, five, seven or 20, with prices starting at $24 per class (£14).

The only catch is that it gets pretty warm in there as the domes create a greenhouse effect. Participants are advised to bring lots of water and each one has a fan to help.

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