https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/aug/28/uk-rivers-at-risk-as-michael-gove-rips-up-rules-on-new-housing

I was staying in a Premier Inn over the weekend. Here are a few of the things that happened to me, or that I witnessed.
Friday morning I was watching BBC Breakfast but when I went to turn off the tv to go out, that was when the remote decided to stop working. So I reported to reception that the tv can't be turned off. The remote needs new batteries and left it with them. On return the tv was off, so all seemed fine. Saturday evening I returned to the hotel quite late, gone 11pm, put the tv on for a while but around half past midnight decided it was time to sleep. Guess what happened next? The remote failed again and I couldn't turn off the tv. The tv was fixed to the wall. The was no button on the tv to turn off manually. No sign of a mains lead. I even thought, would taking the keycard out of the slot (which turns off the lights) also turn off the tv. But it doesn't. So it was back down to reception again, this time with remote controller in hand. The man on reception found some batteries but realised he didn't have a screwdriver to open the remote. So he asked me to come back in about 20 minutes. I duly returned and he handed over the remote. I went back to my room , pointed the remote at the tv and nothing happened, so it was back to reception for another set of batteries. Thankfully this time the remote worked and the tv went off.

In the breakfast area there was the choice of continental breakfast which was buffet style, or cooked breakfast which you ordered from the server, telling them which items you want and how many.

The was a family sitting across from me. The father started telling the server, "may I have 4 bacons, 5 sausages, 2 black puddings, 4 fried eggs etc.." The server wrote it down then asked the next person for their order. The father then said, "the order i gave was for all of us". To which the server explained each person should order seperately to avoid confusion.

On another morning a family turned up for breakfast an hour earlier than the time they had booked. The restaurant manager was wearing her jobsworth hat and refused to let them in, even though I could see at least 8 empty tables.

Anyone else got any good hotel stories.

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1175409/call_for_evidence_-_driver_licensing_for_people_with_medical_conditions.pdf

Driving with medical conditions

As usual too little too late

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12458815/amp/Zombie-machete-crackdown-Owning-selling-double-edged-serrated-chopping-blades-illegal-battle-against-gang-culture.html

Can never understand what made him commit these crimes after everything he had done in his life . He had served in Iraq and Northern Ireland

https://news.sky.com/story/brighton-cat-killer-died-of-covid-in-jail-and-had-cancer-inquest-12951591

https://news.sky.com/story/father-whose-son-killed-himself-after-taking-poison-ordered-online-demands-better-regulation-12947457?dicbo=v2-AE0TJXG

I have friends that are on waiting lists or have been given appointments for a years time. It seems that many have died while waiting

https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/politics/over-120000-people-died-nhs-30823234.amp

Just had a quote for taking out kitchen sink and changing quartz worktop (which has given me much misery over the past couple of years) to melamine for £1,800 ish plus VAT. Does VAT apply to everything, i.e. is there VAT on the labour charge as well as on the materials used, please. (I was asked if I would be buying the worktop and sink myself).

https://uk.yahoo.com/style/sadiq-khan-ditches-plans-charge-172726658.html

Because they were all blue-eyed blondes, and there are no black players.
So said Wilfried Emmanuel-Jones AKA The Black Farmer on Sky News .
And in a later interview Dr Shola Mos-Shogbabmimu, who is a shitstirrer, said being in the England Lionesses team was all about white privilege.
Neither time did the Sky presenter have the guts to say they were talking rubbish. That the England squad is chosen on talent and current form. It can't be chosen with a certain number of non-white players having to be included.
You could argue that the Lionesses team is unrepresentative because nearly all of them are lesbians, which makes all the straight women watching feel victimised.

Sadly the police officer who went to save a distressed man on a railway track has passed away

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-nottinghamshire-66619728.amp

Not quite true
They were actually police officers

A house made of pallets and plastic

https://www.mylondon.news/news/south-london-news/woman-living-shack-built-london-27592357

Bless her

But I loved the comments section

https://youtu.be/-PzGMJWqiGk?si=OJ6Fxunip-mzS6Qt

We’ll need a ‘visa’ type document soon (2024) and people are being advised to apply early as application might take 30 days to process. Cannot apply just yet as law not yet in. I am flagging this up early! Edit: Oops not sure that link will work for all.

https://www.aol.co.uk/uk-holidaymakers-warned-euro-pass-105240881.html

"Before Gillian Sandstrom became a psychologist, she was a computer programmer. Then she decided to change tracks and pursue a degree in psychology at Toronto Metropolitan University. And she felt like she didn't fit in.

"I was 10 years older than my fellow students," Sandstrom recalls. "I wasn't sure I was meant to be there. I didn't instantly feel like a part of that community."

Enter the hot dog lady.

On her daily walk from one university building to another, Sandstrom would pass a hot dog stand.

"I never bought a hot dog, but every time I walked past, I would smile and wave at her and she'd smile and wave at me," she says.

Sandstrom remembers looking forward to this daily interaction. This brief exchange with a stranger made her feel less isolated.

"She made me feel happy," she says. "I felt better after seeing her and worse if she wasn't there."

Years later, that type of brief but happy encounter inspired Sandstrom to design a study that looks at the benefits of social connections — encounters, even brief ones, with strangers, acquaintances and anyone outside our close circle of family, friends and colleagues.

"This relationship I had with her really got me thinking about how we have so many people in our lives," says Sandstrom, who now works at the University of Sussex. "We're only close to a small number of them, but all of the other people seem to matter a lot and maybe a lot more than we realize."

Her work is part of a growing body of research that looks at the value of social connectedness, not just to our happiness and well-being but our overall physical health. (In fact, social isolation hurts our minds and bodies so much that it's known to increase risk of premature death.)

While much of the research on social connections has focused on the closest relationships in people's lives, Sandstrom and other scientists are now learning that even the most casual contacts with strangers and acquaintances can be tremendously beneficial to our mental health."

Your thoughts...

As we have gone off topic in another thread I wondered whether members would be interested in discussing this item separately

https://amp.theguardian.com/science/2009/apr/07/sexual-abuse-false-memory-syndrome

At least seven people stabbed, hundreds of arrests including one of someone apprehended with a firearm.

https://news.met.police.uk/news/update-notting-hill-carnival-policing-operation-concludes-471407

How many got away with their crimes and how much does it cost just to Police, let alone clearing up the rubbish and repairing damage caused

One man’s view

https://youtu.be/QZl2ZTZxQAM?si=0EYrV1CWEO14Tu69

Hit small hotel

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12441667/amp/Moment-two-hotel-guests-flee-hotel-stripping-room-carry-including-luxury-towels-lamp-electric-fan-kettle-TV-remote-control.html

A landowner in Bromley felled 131 protected trees on his land. It’s disgraceful. The trees were covered by a tree conservation order. He has been instructed to replant 131 trees. Watch the video in the news item.
https://www.standard.co.uk/news/london/bromley-tree-massacre-cator-park-felled-trees-landowner-council-b1103020.html

Have you got it . How do you feel about it?

https://www.theguardian.com/business/2023/aug/26/more-than-150-car-models-too-big-for-regular-uk-parking-spaces

90% of bald people still own a comb. They just can’t part with it.

This story just gets bigger and bigger and these photographs look to me somewhat odd!

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-12449049/amp/Nice-try-Senor-Fury-Spanish-FA-release-four-photos-suggesting-fire-Luis-Rubiales-picked-World-Cup-star-Jenni-Hermoso-kiss-hours-later-FIFA-suspends-him.html?ico=amp_articleRelated_with_images

Such a shame any of this had to occur to ruin Spain’s celebrations

https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/no-taxpayer-funded-security-for-prince-andrew?share=586a4953-9fc0-47e1-bb01-e675b253d268&source=&utm_campaign=blast2023-08-28&utm_medium=socialshare&utm_source=

https://www.msn.com/en-gb/health/medical/high-tech-socks-could-prevent-falls-and-illness-in-people-with-dementia/ar-AA1fR038?ocid=msedgntp&cvid=5773959b8e1c47f0a8f16794fafe21c4&ei=29

BBC 1 tonight 8 pm

of you who have contributed to last month kind donations gathered by Suzy P totalling £215 to give many rescued cats whatever help i can. All starts at the vet’s.
Sadly never one day without being made aware of cats in need of help. So many. Too many. Too many irresponsible owners who take on pets not being aware of or caring about their needs. Some rescues are not very demanding when rehoming and many pets go to unsuitable homes.
Few have the kind and caring forever homes they deserve. Few are loved and spoiled as they should be. I am busy non stop helping as many cats and kittens as i can and it is a big challenge/struggle.
Finding suitable fosterers and first class new homes is rare. Finding cats in need of help is non stop.
Last month donations will help with fuel/transport cost.
Next month more flea and worm treatments must be purchased as well as more food.
Cat and kittens wet food always needed.
One cat is on single protein food only to keep her in better health.
Some need high protein content food.
Feeding around 100 cats at present.
All given wet food.
Thank you for caring

On my laptop there is an option to buy a film on Youtube, this does not come up on Youtube on my Fire tablet.
If I buy it from the laptop will I be able to watch it on my fire tablet ?

How lucky my generation has been - born after the last world war and even if the next one breaks out in the next few years we'll be on our way out anyway. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-66608891 reminded me of the title of the French film The Sorrow and the Pity (about the collaboration between the Vichy government and the Nazis, but could equally apply to this).

Wow, that is some resignation letter.

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-12448557/Nadine-Dorries-quits-Commons-seat-resignation-letter-full.html

“Life is never made unbearable by circumstances, only by lack of meaning and purpose.”

This observation by the psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor Viktor Frankl is echoed by fascinating new research into the experiences of long COVID sufferers.

While the physical symptoms are often excruciating and debilitating, what really struck the researchers is the profound and sometimes inexplicable anguish that many of the interviewees described, as long COVID forced them to question their purpose in life – and even their very existence.

Report from the Charity Commission

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/regulators-inquiry-into-care4calais-finds-serious-historic-misconduct-andor-mismanagement

Whether or not you sign it`s worth reading and considering the issues.

https://www.change.org/p/stop-the-uk-2025-copper-landline-upgrade-by-bt/psf/promote_or_share


What are the issues?

As the UK transitions to VoIP, several critical issues arise that warrant careful consideration. The primary concern is the reliability of VoIP services during adverse conditions. Unlike traditional copper-wire landlines, which can continue to function during power outages, VoIP relies on electricity and internet connectivity. In emergency situations such as natural disasters or widespread power failures, individuals may find themselves without a reliable means of communication, hindering their ability to call for help or stay connected with loved ones.

Another pressing issue is the digital divide, which is exacerbated by the shift to VoIP. While many individuals are already accustomed to digital technologies, others, particularly the elderly, may struggle to adapt to the complexities of VoIP systems. This lack of digital literacy can lead to frustration, alienation, and increased social isolation. Furthermore, for those living in areas with inadequate internet infrastructure, the installation of high-speed broadband may be costly and time-consuming, further delaying access to essential communication services.

You've probably seen Trump's mugshot from his recent arrest where he's trying to look menacing (and IMO totally fails to do so).
His supporters are putting the photo on tee shirts, posters and so on to raise funds from gullible republicans but I'm curious about who owns the copyright of the photo.
is it in the public domain or is it the copyright of the Fulton County Sheriff's Office?
If it's the latter then Trump's and his supporters could (and should) get sued for copyright infringement.

I wish this could apply to other shops...

There is a little coffee shop, where two people arrive and approached the counter.
“Five coffees ☕️please. Two for us and three hanging.”
They paid, they took their two coffees and left.
I asked the waiter. "What’s this about hanging coffees?"
“Wait and you'll see."
Some more people came in.
Two girls asked for a coffee each, they paid & left.
The following order was for seven coffees and it was made by three women - ‘three for them and four hanging coffees.’
I was left wondering...what is the meaning of the hanging coffees, they leave.
Then, a man dressed in worn clothes, who looks like he might be homeless, arrives at the counter and asks sincerely...
“Do you have a coffee hanging?"
“Yes we do, sir.”
They serve him a coffee.... I got my answer.
People pay in advance for a coffee that will be served to whoever can't afford a hot drink.
This tradition started in Naples.
Amazingly, it has spread throughout the world’s cities and towns.
It’s also possible to order not only "hanging coffees" but also a sandwich or a full low cost meal.
Wouldn’t it be great if we could all start doing this in the cities and towns where we live?
Small kindnesses like this can impact so many lives, in ways we could never imagine.
Maybe we should all try it.😊❤️🌹

A whimsical story about his hope to transition.

https://vm.tiktok.com/ZGJsK7ReG/

https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2023/aug/24/we-have-brothers-sons-lovers-but-they-cant-live-here-the-happy-home-shared-by-26-women

https://www.which.co.uk/news/article/wilko-copycat-website-scam-aIP396Q88ISU?utm_medium=email&utm_source=engagingnetworks&utm_campaign=supporters&utm_content=Scam+alert+240823+-+Investment+scams

Woman admits shoving an elderly
Lady to the ground. For no reason 🥲

https://www.independent.co.uk/news/ap-manhattan-broadway-new-york-debbie-harry-b2398230.html

Had been reported missing a week earlier

https://news.sky.com/story/cat-travels-over-500-miles-trapped-in-welsh-taxis-grille-for-days-12945084

Very suspicious that the road for the firefighters to get there was blocked

https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/experts-wanted-uks-wonkiest-pub-30659168

Wagner mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin is presumed dead after appearing on the passenger list of a private jet that crashed north of the Russian capital, Moscow.

According to Russia's investigative committee, a criminal investigation has been launched into the cause of the crash.

Using a dead person’s photo

https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/read-this/nicola-bulley-family-face-fresh-anguish-as-drowned-mums-pictures-used-to-set-up-fake-online-dating-profiles-4228773

He’s been gone for 40 years now but his ‘face’ lives on

https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/story-behind-one-wales-most-14969050

https://www.spiked-online.com/2023/08/24/the-lies-driving-sadiq-khans-ulez/

Bless this little one. Seeking warmth the only place he/she could find

https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/baby-squirrel-found-sleeping-under-30762954.amp

Fox News are a mainstream US tv channel. A bit like CNN.
https://www.foxnews.com/media/nursery-pulls-book-shown-four-year-olds-men-kissing-bondage-trans-top-surgery-scars

Bird watchers are now rushing to view the bird which seems to be staying in one place. Not a particularly colourful or exciting looking bird it has come a long way for the twitchers to see it

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-cornwall-66520400

#cashisking
Why should we pay cash everywhere with banknotes instead of a card ?
- Say I have a £50 banknote in my pocket & I'm going to a restaurant & paying for dinner with it.
The restaurant owner then uses the note to pay for the laundry.
The laundry owner then uses the note to pay the barber.
The barber will then use the note to pay for shopping.
After an unlimited number of payments, it will still remain a £50 value, which has fulfilled its purpose to everyone who used it for payment & the bank has jumped dry from every cash payment transaction made.
BUT....
IF I go to a restaurant & pay digitally via Card....
- the bank fees for my payment transaction charged to the seller are 3%, so around £1.50....
(& so will be the fee of £1.50 for each further payment transaction )
- for the owner re laundry or
- payments of the owner of the laundry shop,
- or payments of the barber etc....
Therefore, after 30 transactions, the initial £50 will exist at only £5, & the remaining £45 has become the property of the bank, thanks to all of the digital transactions & fees!!!
Use it or lose it folks....
Once it’s gone we won’t get it back!!!
Cash is king!!!

I received this alert via email this morning. Iceland recalling Cathedral cheese.
https://www.food.gov.uk/news-alerts/alert/fsa-prin-27-2023