Author: Blake Foster

Taking the weight off your feet can be easier said than done but sitting down for long periods is not so good as it sounds.   Whether you spend long spells sitting for work, or have pain or mobility problems, it is still important to sit in a healthy posture. Hunched forward, with your shoulders rolled in and your knees higher than your hips can put strain on muscles and joints throughout your body, particularly those in your lower spine, and lead to back pain. Sitting correctly means you can allow your spine to rest in its natural ‘S’ shape…

Miquita Oliver visited Kilburn Grange School in north-west London to share her passion for skipping, leading a whole-school assembly and three workshops. Ms Oliver said: “Skipping is fun, it develops focus, physical energy, co-ordination, stamina, as well as an array of mental health benefits.” Pupils describe skipping as calming, energising, and magical (Image: Kilburn Grange School) “I really want to give children the chance to experience the benefits that skipping has brought me when I didn’t have access to a wide range of sports equipment or facilities.” Through her brand, ROPES, Ms Oliver promotes skipping as a tool for building…

On January 13, 2024 at around 12pm, Norma Campbell attended the emergency department at the Leytonstone hospital showing clear signs of the life-threatening condition. Area coroner for east London, Nadia Persaud, said while sepsis had been detected very early, Mrs Campbell was not given the “prompt and necessary” sepsis care as set out in the NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) guidelines. Mrs Campbell died in hospital less than 24 hours later, during the early hours of January 14. An inquest concluded on June 12, 2025 that Mrs Campbell died of natural causes, contributed to by neglect. A…

If permitted, Alexander House in Alexander Lane could be knocked down and eight new homes built in its place, alongside the conversion of an existing building to form a smaller home on the same site. The development is on a site that has been earmarked in Brentwood Borough Council’s Local Plan for 825 homes. Four developers – Croudace Homes, Redrow Homes, Countryside Properties, and Stonebond Properties – all have house-building projects in the area. Besides the almost 350 homes being built between Countryside and Redrow, Croudace has permission for 344 homes and a new primary school, while Stonebond has permission…

Camden resident Sarah de Lagarde slipped onto the train tracks at High Barnet station in September 2022 on her way home from work. Despite her cries for help, there were no staff around and the 47-year-old was hit by two separate trains before she was found and rushed to hospital. The mum-of-two had her right arm and leg amputated, and now uses two prosthetic limbs, including a bionic arm. Last Wednesday (June 25), there was a first hearing in her case against London Underground Ltd, which is part of Transport for London (TfL), for breach of duty of care. Speaking outside…

SoBe Burger, known for its smash burgers, will open in Harrow High Street on Thursday, July 3. The discount, covering the whole menu, is available in-house only, until Monday, July 7. The new restaurant will offer SoBe’s full range, including smashed beef burgers, crispy fried chicken burgers, chicken wings, and loaded fries with house-made sauces. The fast food chain was founded in 2019. (Image: SoBe Burger) Founded in London in 2019, SoBe, short for South Beach, Miami, has quickly grown in the UK, now boasting 15 locations and over 200 delivery outlets. The founders, Tom and Alex, were inspired to…

To mark the release of the new Superman movie from DC Studios, an 11-foot sculpture has been placed 300 meters above London on the tip of The Shard. The sculpture is based on David Corneswet, the latest actor to wear the iconic cape and underwear combo, and was hoisted into position overnight in a surprise for Londoners. Fans of Superman will only have one day to see the sculpture in the skies before the hero flies off to its next destination. London! Look up over The Shard! #Superman is in theaters July 11. pic.twitter.com/JExTxrkyuz — James Gunn (@JamesGunn) July 1,…

The borough’s library services were given Library of Sanctuary status by City of Sanctuary UK. The recognition highlights the efforts of the libraries throughout Waltham Forest in establishing safe and welcoming environments for refugees, asylum seekers, and other newcomers. The libraries offer a range of services, including free digital access, volunteering opportunities, and spaces for connection and support. Councillor Rosalind Doré, cabinet member for libraries, culture, sports and leisure, said: “This award shows how our libraries are more than places to borrow books. “They are trusted spaces at the heart of our communities, where people can find support, connection and dignity.…

The company, known for its distinctive colours and durable designs, is hosting its first UK dinner series, La Carte by Le Creuset. This three-night event promises to unite fans through the shared language of exceptional food and storytelling, hosted by the heritage brand and a select group of outstanding chefs. Set to take place from Tuesday, July 8, to Thursday, July 10, at 180 Studios on London’s Strand, the series will treat guests to a luxurious three-course dinner each night. Each evening will be hosted by a renowned chef, who will create a unique menu in their signature style, sharing…

At Village Vet Hampstead, we’d like to offer some advice to owners on keeping their animals safe and comfortable. We advise against taking pets outside on hot days, instead it is best to ensure they have plenty of fresh water and cool areas to stay in. We know dog owners are very aware of walking their pets in the heat, but if there is any doubt, it’s safer to take dogs outside either early in the morning or in the evening, rather than the middle of the day when temperatures are highest. It is important to avoid leaving dogs in cars…