It would appear that mobile cameras catch more offenders than static cameras.

“One in nine new homes built in England between 2022 and 2024 were constructed in flood-prone areas, new data shows.”

Excerpt From
“'Future scandal' as thousands of new homes built in flood zones”
Sky News
https://apple.news/AkH3MlGomRnKFiGrxjIkMvg
This material may be protected by copyright.

I have voted Green in the past because our environment is so important but due to stupidity and greed nothing has changed, so we have global warming and floods. Obviously where l live there is a strong risk of flooding. However they are hoping to build over 2000 houses on Green Belt near me. It won’t affect us personally so this is not a nimby complaint but I cannot believe that the company will build affordable housing. Other houses built near me are townhouses and all were nearly 1.4 million. They have courtyard gardens and no drainage. Apart from that the only secondary school is oversubscribed and you have to live within walking distance to get in.

I bought a pot of Soured Cream today. It has a Best Before date of March 8th.

The fact that it says Best Before, means that it's not best quality afterwards, but should still be able to be consumed.

What would you think happens after the BB date? Could it get even more sour, which would then be an improvement in the quality as it was sourness that was needed! Or do you, perhaps, think that the sourness goes and you end up with normal cream?

Or do you have any other ideas, including, (within reason), what you would do with it.

(This isn't meant to be a scientific discussion, just a little light hearted chat).

Has anyone attended any of these? I attended one in The Paul Pry pub in Rayleigh last night. It was my second.
https://share.google/Vld2Clh7hiQbtqvl2
I’m no Michaelangelo but I don’t think my effort last night was too shabby. 🤷🏻‍♀️

May have mentioned needing a new fridge/freezer and being restricted in size due to space. The lower freezer door is now totally broken and will not shut. I tried to pull it out this afternoon with no joy and had to ask my long-suffering neighbour to pop in to try and get the current fridge/freezer out (I haven't bought one yet) on a trial run to see what is behind it, a very tight squeeze.

Well, the flex goes along the floor behind the built-in electric oven unit, which means the whole lot will have to come out to find a socket. There is a socket in the cupboard to the side of the oven unit, but you can't reach that from the other side (he said it was to hide the microwave, but I wouldn't put the microwave in a cupboard anyway). I just can't believe anyone would be stupid/lazy enough to do this, knowing that one day access to a plug for a refrigerator would be needed. Done 6.5 years ago.

Would mention that the floors are concrete so not just a case of going under the floorboards.

(Although in theory they won't see it!)

Last night we ordered a Chinese takeaway from a local restaurant, (I won't name them), I picked it up and put the bag in the passenger foot-well, to get some heat from the blower as I was driving home. On the way I heard the bags rustling and moving!! WTF??!!!

I thought what the hell is that? Has something got in the bag? I thought I could see a little pair of eves peering out at me. I wanted to carry on driving so I leaned forward picked up the bag, put it on the passenger seat and there it was again, more rustling and little eyes looking out behind the prawn crackers,

I thought its got to be a rat or a mouse or something, so I carefully pulled the side of the bag down.
And there it was ...
A peeking duck?

But I forgot to mention being in Anything group, far more stressful than major surgery and a terminally ill husband!

I have been following this gentleman and his child for some time .

https://vm.tiktok.com/ZNRfWwbnV/

does anyone else think that Librasol, another new venture by Sarah Ferguson, sounds like the sort of thing you wouldn't want to mention using? 'Personal' lubricant, perhaps?

Horsey facts: Enjoy.

1) It’s impossible for a horse to vomit due to having what’s called a ‘cardiac sphincter’ This prevents food being ejected from the stomach.
2) A horse can rotate its ears almost 180°
3) A horses small intestine can be up to 22 metres long.
4) A horses lungs can hold 60 litres of air and are the same size as two large basket balls.
5) A horses eyes, positioned at the side of the head, providence almost 350 degrees of panoramic vision.
6) Horses can ‘lock’ their leg joints enabling the to sleep whilst standing upright.
7) Horses can’t breathe through their mouths. They flare their nostrils during exertion to increase airflow into the lungs.
8) A horses heart can beat at 240 beats per minute during exercise and could pump enough blood to fill a standard bath/minute.
9) Like human finger/toenails, horses hooves are made from keratin.
10) Two horses resting their heads on each other signifies complete trust between the two.

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1CTk1Sg7p7/?mibextid=wwXIfr

I woke up this morning and it was raining...

Who said the frequency and why?
Bunkum or requirement?
How do we know?

Have a read of this and see if you can fathom out what your intake should be!

https://www.independentliving.co.uk/nutrition-blog/dietary-guidelines/

I've just seen that the Anything loop is no longer accepting new members or posts, so if you want to have political discussions, you can use the new loop below:

https://www.scooploop.com/loops/politics-any-party-no-vetting-no-waiting

The inspiration for this year's theme is by China

*
https://www.kew.org/kew-gardens/whats-on/orchids-china

There was a programme on BBC yesterday following a rock climber who was determined to climb the 3,200 feet vertical rock formation of El Capitan in Yosemite Nation Park - without ropes (or a parachute)!!!
Even the cameraman at the bottom had to keep looking away.
He did it in just under four hours.
The programme is available for another 15 days.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m001yctb/free-solo

should I have with Peri Peri Chicken?

As Valentine’s Day approaches, The Head of Fraud at Thames Valley Police is urging the public to be alert to the emotional and psychological manipulation used by criminals committing romance fraud. Although these crimes occur all year round, this time of year provides an important opportunity to highlight how offenders groom victims, build trust, and exploit them financially.

Romance fraudsters rarely begin by asking for money. Instead, they construct a detailed illusion of trust to draw victims in. They frequently share personal stories early in the conversation – describing their home life, work, ambitions, or future plans – to create emotional connection and credibility. Later, they reuse these same details as “evidence” to support fabricated emergencies or financial requests. This form of manipulation mirrors behaviours seen in coercive control, blurring a victim’s sense of what is genuine.

A common warning sign is manufactured urgency. Offenders often claim sudden illness, emotional distress or a crisis requiring immediate help. These stories are intentionally designed to distract victims from the underlying ask: money. If a victim hesitates, offenders may accuse them of lacking care or loyalty, applying deliberate emotional pressure to prevent them from seeking advice.

Another tactic is “legitimate secrecy,” where the offender encourages the victim to keep the relationship hidden under the guise of protecting something special. Statements such as “People won’t understand us” or “Don’t tell anyone – it will ruin things” are used to isolate victims from friends and family, limiting the chance for outside perspective.

Over time, this emotional dependency allows offenders to disguise financial requests within stories of hardship: a health crisis, problems at work, or situations only the victim can resolve. These requests may not always be direct. Fraudsters often hint at financial struggles - “I’ll manage somehow” or “If only I had enough to fix this…” - creating a sense of responsibility and prompting victims to offer money voluntarily.

Detective Inspector Duncan Wynn, Head of the Central Fraud Unit at Thames Valley Police, said:
“Romance fraud is a form of emotional exploitation that can be deeply damaging, not just financially but psychologically. Offenders operate with patience, skill, and intent—they create a sense of closeness, then use that trust to isolate victims and apply pressure.

No genuine relationship will demand secrecy, urgency, or financial support. If something does not feel right, speak to someone you trust or seek advice early. Reaching out for help is not a sign of naivety—it is a vital step in protecting yourself.”

Thames Valley Police is encouraging members of the public to read Staying Safe from Romance Fraud booklet, which outlines practical steps to recognise red flags and reduce the risk of victimisation.

The booklet was created in partnership with, Dr Elisabeth Carter, Associate Professor of Criminology and Forensic Linguist, Kingston University.
This booklet has been designed to demonstrate the clever tactics used by romance fraudsters with a view to empower the knowledge of our communities.
It also dispels the myths of shame and embarrassment often associated with this crime by highlighting the link to coercive control.
 
Key Reminders:
If someone online seems “perfect” very quickly, pause and reflect. Be wary of sudden crises or emotional appeals requiring fast action. Healthy relationships never rely on secrecy. Any financial request—direct or indirect—is a major red flag. Stay connected with trusted friends or family who can offer perspective.
For more information, visit the A guide to spotting romance fraudsters | Thames Valley Police .
https://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/SysSiteAssets/media/downloads/thames-valley/campaigns/romance-fraud-ebook_v3.pdf

Please notify Report Fraud https://reporting.reportfraud.police.uk/?__cf_chl_tk=ptld8rsj6lun7uwhjhr3d8cq5zz05a3faonbymce3ai-1770985123-1.0.1.1-c8xib5rn8e.rqtdwdxgci0hpecaao6zhrdwoquloh9y
 if you have been targeted with fraud where you may report online or by calling 0300 123 2040.
 
Further resources 
The Central Fraud Unit have also created the Romance Fraud Practical Support Guide, aimed at signposting anyone targeted with romance fraud towards the practical and emotional steps to help deal with the aftermath. 
Hear more about how fraud criminals exploit manipulative tactics in the BBC Sounds - Love Bombed 
Take steps to feel empowered against all types of fraud using the Fraud Protection toolkit
Follow the Central Fraud Unit on ‘X’ at @TVPCyber_Fraud

In the early 1970s that was the message we were being given to ensure we had a daily dose of carbohydrates.

How many slices do you have nowadays (toasted or fresh) and what do you have on/with them?

The theatre in Grimsby capitulated to militant vegan group Peta, agree to only sell vegan food during the show's run.
https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/whats-on/whats-on-news/theatre-showing-peppa-pig-live-33389134

https://www.jamescookartworkshop.com/products/big-ben-and-london-eye

https://www.jamescookartworkshop.com/collections/shop?page=3

The YouTube videos are worth watching.
https://jamescookartwork.com/media/

I got a call from a scammer yesterday.

Me: “Hello.”

Scammer: (thick, heavy accent) “Hello. This is Tom Smith from Microsoft Support. We are seeing a lot of virus activity coming from your device.”

Me: “Oh no. My device? Are you sure?”

Scammer: “Oh yes, Madam. We have many reports.”

Me: “Oh, my. How can I fix it?”

Scammer: “It’s okay, Madam. We can help you right now. Are you in front of your device?”

Me: “Yes. I was just about to use it. I’m glad you called.”

Scammer: “Good, Madam. Please push the Start button.”

Me: “I think it’s already on.”

Scammer: “Okay, Madam. Now click on Control Panel.”

Me: “I don’t see that.”

Scammer: “Do you see a bunch of information above the Start button?”

Me: “Yes.”

Scammer: “That is your Control Panel.”

Me: “Wow. I didn’t realize it had a name.”

Scammer: “Yes, Madam. Now press Internet Options.”

Me: “I don’t see any Internet options. I don’t think I bought that feature. This is just a cheap one.”

Scammer: “All devices have Internet, Madam. Press the Start button again.”

Me: “Okay. Same as before.”

Scammer: “That’s fine, Madam. We will restart your device. Please turn it off.”

Me: “Um… I don’t know how. I’ve never turned it off. It kind of just stays on.”

Scammer: “There must be an off button. How do you stop it when it’s running?”

Me: “I usually press the big button.”

Scammer: “Okay, Madam. Press that button.”

Me: “Okay.”

Scammer: “Is your device off?”

Me: “No. The door popped open.”

Scammer: “Door? Is there a disc inside?”

Me: “No. There’s a burrito.”

Scammer: “Why is there a burrito in your computer?”

Me: “Computer? I thought you said this was microwave support.”

It is not possible to join the original Current Affairs and Politics loop, but there is now another loop which you can join. The loop is moderated and racist free. Click below to join:
https://www.scooploop.com/loops/politics-any-party-no-vetting-no-waiting

How can some metal surfaces, like brass doorknobs, automatically disinfect themselves.

That antique brass doorknob is more than just decoration—it's a microscopic weapon that literally shreds harmful bacteria on contact, and we'll show you the science behind how it works.

Introduction:
Have you ever walked through an old building and noticed the tarnished, antique brass doorknobs and handrails? You might assume that newer, shinier stainless steel fixtures are more hygienic. However, science reveals a surprising truth: that old brass doorknob may be cleaner than you think, capable of killing harmful germs all on its own. This isn't a magical property but a well-documented scientific phenomenon with significant implications for public health. In a world increasingly conscious of pathogens on high-touch surfaces, understanding this natural antimicrobial power is more relevant than ever. This post will explore the fascinating science that explains how some metal surfaces, like brass doorknobs, can automatically disinfect themselves.

The Secret Weapon:
The Oligodynamic Effect
The ability of certain metals to self-disinfect is not a new discovery. Ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians and Greeks, used copper to store water and treat wounds, long before they understood the science of germs. The principle behind this power is called the oligodynamic effect.

The term comes from the Greek words oligos (few) and dynamis (force), referring to the toxic effect that small concentrations of metal ions have on living microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores. While several metals, including silver and mercury, exhibit this property, copper and its alloys—such as brass (copper and zinc) and bronze (copper and tin)—are particularly effective and safe for human contact.

How Copper Wages War on Microbes:
When a microbe lands on a brass surface, the copper within the alloy launches a multi-pronged, lethal attack at the cellular level. Researchers have identified a rapid, destructive process that leaves germs with no chance of survival or mutation.

Here’s how it works:
Rupturing the Cell Wall: The first assault is on the microbe's outer membrane. Copper ions, which are electrically charged atoms, effectively "punch holes" in this protective barrier. This breach causes the cell to lose vital nutrients and water, weakening its defenses.
Generating Destructive Free Radicals: Once the membrane is compromised, the copper ions flood the cell's interior. Here, they generate highly reactive molecules known as reactive oxygen species (or free radicals). These molecules cause widespread oxidative stress, damaging essential internal components much like rust attacks iron.
Destroying the Genetic Blueprint: In the final, decisive blow, the copper ions target the microbe's DNA and RNA. By binding to the genetic material, they corrupt the microbe's "instruction manual," completely preventing it from functioning, metabolizing, or, most importantly, reproducing.

This comprehensive attack is so effective that microbes cannot develop a resistance to copper, unlike their ability to evolve resistance to antibiotics.

Brass vs. Stainless Steel:
An Unfair Fight
In modern design, stainless steel is often favored for its sleek look and resistance to corrosion. However, from a microbiological standpoint, it pales in comparison to copper alloys.

According to studies, including significant research from the University of Southampton, pathogens can survive on non-antimicrobial surfaces for extended periods. For example, some viruses can remain viable on stainless steel and plastic for up to 72 hours. In stark contrast, those same microbes are often inactivated on a copper surface within just a few hours. This makes copper alloys an ideal choice for high-touch surfaces in environments where hygiene is critical, such as:
Hospitals (bed rails, IV poles, and call buttons)
Public transportation (grab bars and poles)
Schools and public buildings (door handles, push plates, and faucets)

Conclusion
The self-disinfecting power of brass doorknobs is a perfect example of science hiding in plain sight. This capability is not magic but the result of the oligodynamic effect, where copper ions launch a devastating, multi-stage attack that destroys microbes by rupturing their membranes, creating internal chaos, and shredding their DNA. While shiny stainless steel may look clean, copper-based metals provide an active, continuous layer of antimicrobial protection. As we continue to seek innovative ways to create safer and healthier public spaces, sometimes the best solutions are the ones that have been with us for centuries, quietly waiting to be rediscovered.


https://usefulbs.com/blog/how-can-some-metal-surfaces-like-brass-doorknobs-automatically-disinfect-themselves

These very helpful phone nos. were printed in a free local magazine delivered today. ‘Roundabout Rochford’ Most are numbers probably well known generally but there are a few that are worth making a note of. Click on photo to enlarge.

Purchased my Strollercise tee shirt this morning.

Last seen here: https://www.scooploop.com/loops/accidental-vegetarians

“The woman who follows the crowd will usually go no further than the crowd. The woman who walks alone is likely to find herself in places no one has ever been before.”
Albert Einstein.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cy8pnggl7zgo

If you saw this in another loop, please give others a chance.
.
.
https://jottacloud.com/s/095ee16e911c4c24592b4bf72cf6d6b1c46

Every year, my friends would remind me to get a pair of free tickets to the show so we can try to all go together

This is the code I've received and I've booked mine while it's still valid

IHSSFF

Please do share any other codes that may still be valid

*
https://www.idealhomeshow.co.uk/?_ga=2.138679411.1379501285.1770093072-1776906297.1770093063&_gl=1*1e77b15*_gcl_au*NjMzNTQzODA4LjE3NzAwOTMwNzAuMTc5OTI5NDAzOS4xNzcwMDkzODI2LjE3NzAwOTM4ODE.

*UPDATED*

Once you've signed up to their newsletters with your email address, you should also get prior informations on upcoming events

My brother took going to jail really badly.
He refused food and drinks.
He bitched and cursed at anyone who came near him and started throwing things everywhere.
After that we never played Monopoly again!

There is currently even less activity. If you don't post, there is nothing for anyone to read. I'll post a few things here today, join in, don't give the owner a reason to completely give up.

https://jottacloud.com/s/0954cbfdc7105254ca8b88e751548fc3d88

A man was sitting in the bar at Heathrow and noticed a really beautiful woman sitting next to him.
He thought to himself. "Wow. she's so gorgeous she must be an air hostess. I wonder which airline she works for?"
Hoping to find out, he leaned towards her and uttered the Delta Airline slogan. "Love to flv and it shows?"
She gave him a blank. confused stare and he thought to himself. "Well, she obviously doesn't work for Delta."
A moment later, another slogan popped into his head. So he leaned towards her again and said, "Something special in the air?"
She gave him the same confused look He mentally scratched Singapore Airlines off his list.
He thought "Perhaps she works for Thai Airways ..." and said "Smooth as silk?"
This time, the woman turned on him and said, "What the f*** do you want?"
The man smiled, sat back in his chair and said to himself, "Ahhhhh, Ryanair!"

Here is what it stands for: Completely Automated Public Turing Test To Tell Computers and Humans Apart.

Turin test: 'The Turing test, proposed by Alan Turing in 1950, is a measure of a machine's ability to exhibit intelligent behaviour equivalent to, or indistinguishable from, that of a human. During the test, a human evaluator engages in a natural-language conversation with one human and one machine via a terminal; if the evaluator cannot reliably distinguish the machine from the human, the machine passes the test.'

https://jottacloud.com/s/09528e7986c9b994b0c9187fddcaac11892

Neige. 16 years old now and not very well today at all. A visit to the vet is called for I think.

Hearing about Boots reminded me of these other members who are no longer posting, do you know if they are still with us?:

@UncleAlbert
@RyanT
@Lonicera
@lizb59

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/videos/clygp96zm7go

We’ve obviously had torrential rain over the past few days. Should I be worried that my pebbledash looks very wet as if the rain has soaked in to it? I’m south facing in an extended bungalow kitchen. Any advice would be appreciated.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p-ZjJ3riY1Y

@Selsey