An innovative underwater experiment combining 'coral IVF' and fish noise recordings offers hope for restoring coral reefs on the brink of collapse. The global collaboration between scientists aims to significantly increase coral repopulation on degraded reefs, with initial trials in the Maldives. Techniques involve capturing heat-tolerant coral spawn and using fish noises to attract larvae to degraded reefs. The experiment, featured on BBC's 'Our Changing Planet,' highlights the urgent need to address climate change to preserve coral ecosystems. Scientists emphasize the importance of maintaining temperature increases below 1.5C to ensure the success of these restoration efforts.

The G7 has condemned Iran's retaliatory attacks on Israel, which Iran and Syria claim as acts of self-defense following the killing of an Iranian commander by Israel. Latin American leaders expressed concerns over the potential for a global conflict, with Bolivia's president warning of a possible 'third world war.' The US, while supporting Israel's right to self-defense, has opposed any Israeli counterattack against Iran. Iran informed Turkey and the US in advance of its limited operation, emphasizing it was for self-defense. The article includes various international reactions and calls for restraint to prevent further escalation.

Tom Shakespeare, a disabled rights activist, academic, and former standup comedian, discusses his new novel 'The Ha-Ha,' which features a paraplegic wheelchair user as the main character. Shakespeare aims to challenge typical representations of disabled characters by portraying an ordinary life with humor. Drawing inspiration from British comic writers like PG Wodehouse, Douglas Adams, and Terry Pratchett, he emphasizes the importance of laughter in dealing with life's challenges. The article also touches on his personal experiences with disability, his academic work, and his views on equality and inherited titles.

The Conservatives retracted an online video attacking Sadiq Khan's crime record in London after it was revealed to use footage from New York. The ad, supporting Susan Hall for the London mayoralty, falsely depicted London as a crime-ridden city. Critics, including political journalist Paul Waugh, pointed out the misleading content, leading to the video's withdrawal. Data from the Crime Survey for England and Wales contradicts the ad's claims, showing lower crime rates in London compared to the national average. Khan's campaign criticized the ad as a misleading attack on London.

The International Slavery Museum in Liverpool is seeking information about the subject of 'The Black Boy,' a painting by William Lindsay Windus from 1844. The portrait is unique for its depiction of an individual Black child, which is rare for the period. X-rays have shown that Windus painted multiple faces before choosing this subject. The museum's researcher, Kate Haselden, has uncovered a narrative that the boy was a stowaway who Windus met and helped, but she remains skeptical. The museum is appealing for any information that could shed light on the boy's identity, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the Black presence in art and history.

The article reveals that 77 alumnae of Newnham College, part of Cambridge University, were involved in codebreaking at Bletchley Park during World War II. The college researchers spent five years uncovering the identities and roles of these women, who were recruited to intercept, decrypt, and translate military messages. Many of these women kept their work secret due to the Official Secrets Act. The article highlights the contributions of key figures such as Jane Monroe, Dr. Sally Waugh, Dr. Gillian Sutherland, and Pernel Strachey, and discusses the recruitment process led by influential women connected to Bletchley Park.

Newnham College, part of Cambridge University, has revealed the identities of 77 alumnae who worked as codebreakers at Bletchley Park during World War II. The revelation is part of a college exhibit and roll of honour, the result of five years of research by college staff and Bletchley Park. The women, who were recruited for their language skills and mathematical expertise, played a crucial role in deciphering Nazi messages and breaking Enigma codes. The research uncovered the secretive recruitment process, often facilitated by influential women at the college. Many of the codebreakers, such as Jane Monroe, kept their wartime roles secret, adhering to the Official Secrets Act.

Exit polls indicate Vladimir Putin winning a significant majority in the Russian presidential election, securing nearly 88% of the vote. The election, criticized by international leaders and organizations for lacking legitimacy and fairness, saw a high turnout despite repression and protests. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and Western nations condemned the election, highlighting its illegal conduct in occupied Ukrainian territories. Anti-Putin protests occurred globally, and a Russian missile attack on Mykolaiv resulted in casualties. The election solidifies Putin's long-term rule, surpassing historical leaders like Joseph Stalin.

Plant specimens collected by Charles Darwin during the Beagle voyage have been discovered in the Cambridge University herbarium archives. These specimens, stored for nearly 200 years, were given to Darwin's mentor, Prof John Stevens Henslow. A Channel 5 documentary will feature these specimens, revealing Darwin's significant contributions to botanical science and his role in the development of evolutionary theory. The university's herbarium, established in 1761, contains over 1.1 million specimens, including many type specimens collected by Darwin. Some of these specimens have never been studied and offer a glimpse into 19th-century botanical collection practices. The documentary will also explore Darwin's observations of species interactions in the Galápagos Islands, which informed his evolutionary theory.

Jessica Hepburn, an author and adventurer, overcame personal tragedies and infertility struggles by embarking on epic physical challenges, including summiting Mount Everest. Her journey was intertwined with listening to every episode of the BBC's Desert Island Discs, which provided her with wisdom and motivation. Despite facing numerous setbacks, including a broken leg during her descent from Everest, Hepburn's story is one of resilience and finding strength through adversity. She encourages others to turn personal tragedies into opportunities for unexpected and fulfilling life experiences.

The Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge is reopening its main painting galleries with a new display approach that aims to be more inclusive, featuring works by women artists, artists of color, and those representing LGBT culture. The rehang, directed by Luke Syson and curated by Dr. Rebecca Birrell, juxtaposes iconic works with lesser-known pieces and contemporary acquisitions, organized by themes rather than chronology. The museum seeks to promote dialogue across time and place without being overly didactic. This approach comes amid criticisms of other museums' rehangs as preachy and dull, but the Fitzwilliam Museum aims to enrich understanding and encourage debate about art and history.

A rare edition of 'De Humani Corporis Fabrica Libri Septem,' annotated by its author Andreas Vesalius, known as the 'father of modern human anatomy,' is set to be auctioned at Christie's in New York. The book, which revolutionized medicine in the Renaissance, was discovered to be annotated by Vesalius after its purchase by Canadian pathologist Dr. Gerard Vogrincic. Prof. Vivian Nutton of the UCL Centre for the History of Medicine confirmed the annotations' authenticity. The book, previously housed at the University of Toronto’s Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library, is valued at up to £1m and offers insights into Vesalius's thoughts and corrections for a potential third edition, which was never published due to his death.

A rare edition of 'De Humani Corporis Fabrica Libri Septem,' annotated by its author Andreas Vesalius and valued at up to £1m, is set to be auctioned at Christie's in New York. The book, a cornerstone in medical history, was discovered to contain Vesalius's own annotations by collector Dr. Gerard Vogrincic. Expert Prof. Vivian Nutton confirmed the annotations, which provide insights into Vesalius's thoughts and corrections. The book, which challenged the prevailing medical authorities of its time, is considered Vesalius's final revisions to his work, as he died before a third edition could be published. The annotated copy has been studied by scholars and was housed at the University of Toronto's Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library.

Sir Humphry Davy, renowned for his scientific discoveries and inventions, also secretly wrote hundreds of poems, now revealed by researchers at Lancaster University. These poems, found in his notebooks alongside his scientific experiments, offer insights into his creative process and the interplay between his scientific and poetic endeavors. The discovery underscores the symbiotic relationship between science and the arts, challenging the modern separation of these fields. Davy's work, including his tour of Europe with Michael Faraday, highlights his profound impact on both science and literature.

Gyles Brandreth shares personal reflections and life advice, emphasizing the importance of staying busy and not dwelling on the past. He recounts significant moments from his life, including his parents' sacrifices, his childhood dreams, and influential figures he has met. Brandreth also discusses his fears, aspirations, and admiration for literary giants. He promotes his podcast 'Rosebud' and his book 'Elizabeth: An Intimate Portrait'.

Researchers at Lancaster University have uncovered hundreds of unpublished poems by Sir Humphry Davy, a renowned 19th-century British chemist, within his scientific notebooks. These poems, which intertwine with his scientific work, offer new insights into Davy's thought processes and the interplay between his scientific discoveries and poetic expressions. The findings highlight Davy's holistic view of the world and his belief in the constant transformation of matter. The discovery challenges the modern separation of arts and sciences, underscoring the inherent creativity in scientific inquiry.

Peter Tatchell, a human rights campaigner, has lived with financial hardship, earning an average of £6,000 a year while facing violence and death threats due to his work. Despite the challenges, he finds the emotional and psychological rewards of his activism outweigh the physical deprivations. Tatchell, who grew up in a poor family in Melbourne, Australia, moved to the UK at 19 to avoid conscription for the Vietnam War. He has contributed to significant human rights advancements, including the fight against HIV/AIDS and LGBT+ rights. Now 71, he is the director of the Peter Tatchell Foundation and has started saving for retirement. He advocates for a wealth tax to support the NHS and social care and donates to human rights causes, such as supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression. Tatchell is featured in the Netflix documentary 'Hating Peter Tatchell' which chronicles his 56 years of activism.

Friends and family gatherings are the highlight of New Year's Eve celebrations, best enjoyed with cozy activities and a variety of appetizers. Crispy Smashed Potatoes are an easy, versatile dish that can be prepared ahead of time and customized with various toppings to suit different dietary preferences. The recipe involves boiling, smashing, and baking Yukon Gold potatoes, which can be garnished with ingredients like sour cream, bacon, cheddar cheese, and more. The article emphasizes keeping the celebration simple and enjoyable, with additional suggestions for festive foods and activities.

Eddie Izzard has failed in her second attempt to be selected as a Labour candidate, losing to music industry activist Tom Gray for the Brighton Pavilion seat. Izzard, who previously failed to secure the Labour candidacy for Sheffield Central, had promised to focus on education, affordable housing, NHS funding, and mental health. Caroline Lucas, the current Green MP for Brighton Pavilion, plans to stand down, and Labour aims to win the seat. Gray expressed his gratitude for being selected, while Izzard faced criticism for her New York show schedule but assured she would prioritize her campaign if selected.

A letter from 155 years ago reveals artist Dante Gabriel Rossetti's excuse of 'constant diarrhoea' to delay a meeting with patron George Rae. This letter, along with the painting 'Sibylla Palmifera', will be displayed at the Lady Lever Art Gallery. Rossetti, known for his hypochondria and substance abuse, frequently delayed his work, frustrating Rae. Despite numerous excuses, Rossetti eventually completed the painting, bringing joy to Rae. The exhibit highlights Rossetti's candidness about his health and the Victorian era's graphic discussions of bodily issues.

Martin Bond concluded his 13-year-long photography project, 'A Cambridge Diary,' capturing daily life in Cambridge with his final photo featuring a full moon over King’s College Chapel. Bond's project, which began in 2010, aimed to highlight the everyday beauty of Cambridge, attracting a significant following. His work, bridging the 'town and gown' divide, is highly regarded, with locals considering it an honor to be featured. Bond's favorite photo, taken during the first day of lockdown, symbolizes resilience. He recently published a book, 'Town and Gown,' and plans to curate more from his extensive collection.

At Cheffins auction house in Cambridge, UK, buyers find value and enjoyment in purchasing unique and sustainable items, ranging from art and furniture to quirky collectibles. Auctions offer the chance to acquire items that retain or increase in value, unlike many high street purchases. Buyers, including a lecturer, a consultant psychiatrist, and a carpet fitter, share their strategies and experiences, highlighting the thrill of the auction process. Despite the buyer's premium and additional costs, auctions remain popular, with many bids placed online. Post-sale offers also provide opportunities for bargains, suggesting that some may be selling valuables due to financial pressures.

Michael Heseltine shares his typical Sunday routine, which includes a leisurely start, a consistent breakfast, reading various Sunday newspapers, attending a local Church of England service every third Sunday, enjoying a classic English roast lunch with family or friends, and indulging in a siesta. He also spends time walking his dogs and gardening in his extensive 70-acre garden, which is home to 80 species of birds.

In London, 126 people were arrested amid rightwing violence at a pro-Palestine march. The Metropolitan Police faced aggression from counterprotesters, including rightwing groups. The march coincided with Armistice Day commemorations, leading to tensions near the Cenotaph war memorial. Tommy Robinson, former co-leader of the English Defence League, was present and had previously urged supporters to join. Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald criticized Home Secretary Suella Braverman's remarks comparing the marches to Troubles-era rallies. Conservative MP Theresa Villiers hoped for a peaceful march, while former minister Nicholas Soames emphasized the right to protest. Clashes between police and groups attempting to reach the Cenotaph were reported.

During a pro-Palestine march in London, 126 people were arrested amidst violent clashes involving rightwing counterprotesters. The Metropolitan Police detained a large group near Westminster Bridge linked to earlier disorder. In Glasgow, a Scottish Palestine Solidarity Campaign demonstration included a 'die-in.' Far-right groups, including football fans and members of the English Defence League, gathered by the Cenotaph on Whitehall on Armistice Day, with some attempting to reach the pro-Palestine march. The Scottish First Minister, Humza Yousaf, criticized Home Secretary Suella Braverman for emboldening these groups, leading to attacks on police officers.

During a pro-Palestine march in London, 126 individuals were arrested amidst concerns of rightwing violence highlighted by the police. Clashes occurred between police and counter-protesters in Parliament Square, where offensive chants were reported, and a Palestinian flag was destroyed. British Transport Police conducted an arrest phase at Waterloo station but made no arrests as protesters dispersed. The march concluded in Nine Elms with organizers requesting the crowd to disperse peacefully.

A pro-Palestinian rally in London expected to draw hundreds of thousands clashed with far-right groups near the Cenotaph. Police engaged with counter-protesters, some holding Israeli flags, who were attempting to reach the pro-Palestinian march. Over 2,000 officers were deployed for the event, with exclusion zones set up to protect Remembrance Day events. The Palestine Solidarity Campaign, one of the organizers, emphasized peaceful marching and public safety. Met Police Commissioner Mark Rowley and politicians like Theresa Villiers and Nicholas Soames commented on the situation, with Soames advocating for a ceasefire in the conflict. The Prime Minister Rishi Sunak held discussions with Rowley to ensure public safety during the weekend's events.

Curt Johnson, the owner of an inflatable trampoline that exploded and killed three-year-old Ava-May Littleboy, has been sentenced to six months in jail for health and safety offences. The incident occurred in July 2018 at Gorleston beach in Norfolk. The court heard that the trampoline lacked a safety valve and had been found unsafe just days before the accident. Johnson and his company, Johnsons Funfair Ltd, pleaded guilty to the offences. The judge also disqualified Johnson from being a company director for five years and fined his company £20,000. Ava-May's parents expressed their devastation, and Johnson's barrister conveyed his deep regret and apologies.

James Corden has signed a deal with SiriusXM to create a new podcast, 'This Life of Mine,' following his departure from CBS's 'The Late Late Show.' The podcast will feature in-depth interviews with prominent figures, discussing their personal stories and favorite media. Corden expressed excitement about the new venture, which is set to premiere early next year. The article also touches on Corden's past success with 'Carpool Karaoke' and a previous incident at a New York restaurant.

Businesses in the Craignish peninsula of Scotland are struggling to survive nearly a month after a severe landslip caused by record-breaking rainfall blocked a vital road link. The landslip on the A816 near Ardfern left 6,000 tonnes of debris, with over 4,000 tonnes still obstructing the road. Local businesses, already impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic and cost-of-living crisis, are facing significant challenges. The Craignish Community Company, led by Vicki Burnett, is working to support these businesses and keep the issue in the spotlight. Argyll & Bute council is working to remove the debris and create an emergency route, with hopes to reopen the road by mid to late November. The annual Craignish Christmas market is set to proceed, with local businesses hoping for strong attendance.

Thousands of pro-Palestinian demonstrators marched in central London demanding a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict, resulting in two arrests. The protest, organized by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, saw clashes with counter-demonstrators and police. The UK government and Labour leader Keir Starmer advocate for humanitarian pauses rather than a ceasefire, a stance that has caused internal party disagreements. The UN General Assembly called for an immediate truce, with the UK abstaining from the vote. Protests also occurred in other UK cities, highlighting widespread public demand for an end to the violence.

David Nugent-Malone, a poet from Strathblane, captured a surreal moment during Storm Babet in Mugdock, Stirlingshire, where the forest floor appeared to lift and move like the sea. He shared the video on social media, describing the experience as a 'weird anomaly' and likening it to a funhouse attraction for his dog. Despite the blustery conditions, the forest was strangely calm, and the phenomenon was more surprising than frightening.

Hannah Fry shares her personal journey, reflecting on her work ethic inherited from her mother, her battle with cancer at 36, and how these experiences have shaped her optimism and resilience. She discusses the influence of her parents, her fear of the ocean, and the importance of finding joy even in difficult times. Fry emphasizes the value of old age, the lessons learned from her illness, and her belief in humanity's ability to adapt and overcome challenges.

Lisa Cameron, an SNP MP who switched allegiance to the Conservative Party, has been forced into hiding due to threats of violence following her defection. Cameron and her family relocated to an undisclosed location in Scotland after receiving menacing emails. She cited a culture of aggression and intimidation within the SNP, psychological coercion, and the mishandling of complaints against fellow SNP MP Patrick Grady as reasons for her departure. Her move has been met with criticism from SNP figures, with First Minister Humza Yousaf suggesting she should resign from her position.

Trevor Nelson reflects on his upbringing in Hackney, the influence of his strict parents, and his early fascination with music. He discusses the challenges of growing up as a Black child in England, his career in the music industry, and his experiences with racism. Nelson shares that Whitney Houston is the only celebrity who has ever made him feel starstruck, despite interviewing many famous artists during his time at MTV. He also addresses the stereotypes associated with being perceived as 'cool' and emphasizes the importance of enjoying life's good moments.

Caribbean nations are preparing to demand that the British royal family, Lloyd’s of London, and the Church of England apologize and make reparations for their roles in the slave trade. National reparations commissions plan to send formal letters by the end of the year. King Charles III has shown support for research into the monarchy's links to slavery but has not formally apologized. Lloyd’s of London and the Church of England have expressed regret for their historical involvement. The UK government has been unresponsive to the idea of reparations.

A BBC Panorama investigation revealed allegations against former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Jeffries and an associate, Smith, for exploiting young men for sex between 2009 and 2015. Eight men described events involving sex acts, with some feeling misled about expectations. The possibility of A&F modelling contracts was mentioned prior to the encounters. Former model Barrett Pall and others felt dehumanized and harmed. Former US prosecutors Edwards and Geddes suggest an investigation into potential sex trafficking charges. Middleman Jacobson, identified by the BBC, denied coercive behavior, while A&F expressed disgust at the allegations and emphasized its commitment to a values-driven organization. The Panorama special aired on BBC One, with a related podcast series available.

A lightning strike at Severn Trent Green Power's Cassington AD Facility near Oxford caused a significant gas explosion, leading to local power outages. Eyewitnesses described a loud bang and a fireball in the sky. Emergency services are on the scene, and no injuries have been reported. The Met Office had issued a weather warning for thunderstorms in the area. Power outages were reported in several nearby towns.

Former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Mike Jeffries and his partner Matthew Smith are accused of exploiting young men for sex at events they hosted, according to a BBC investigation. Several men allege they were misled about the nature of the events and were sexually auditioned by a middleman, James Jacobson. The BBC's two-year investigation includes testimonies from eight men who attended these events between 2009 and 2015. Two former US prosecutors have called for an investigation into potential sex trafficking charges. Abercrombie & Fitch has expressed disgust at the allegations and emphasized its commitment to zero tolerance for abuse.

An innovative underwater experiment combining 'coral IVF' and fish noise recordings offers hope for restoring coral reefs on the brink of collapse. Developed by scientists from Southern Cross University and the University of Bristol, the techniques aim to significantly increase coral repopulation on degraded reefs. The first application in the Maldives will be featured on BBC's 'Our Changing Planet.' The project underscores the urgency of addressing global climate change to preserve coral ecosystems, with scientists emphasizing the need to limit global temperature rise to 1.5C to ensure the success of these restoration efforts.

Two asteroids have been named in honor of British female astronomers Annie Maunder and Alice Everett, recognizing their significant yet historically overlooked contributions to astronomy. Maunder and Everett, who studied at Girton College, Cambridge, faced numerous challenges due to their gender but made substantial advancements in their fields. Maunder, known for her work on sunspots and solar photography, and Everett, who contributed to optics and early television technology, are celebrated for their resilience and pioneering spirit. The recognition aims to inspire future generations by acknowledging these women's scientific achievements.

A rare 1493 Latin translation of Christopher Columbus's letter announcing his 'discovery' of America is set to be auctioned by Christie's, expected to fetch up to £1.2m. The letter, which played a significant role in European colonization, is now viewed as propaganda. Historians highlight Columbus's brutal exploitation of Indigenous peoples and the subsequent shift in his legacy from explorer to exploiter. The auction underscores the enduring historical impact and controversy surrounding Columbus's voyages.

Celebrities, despite their success, often make significant financial mistakes similar to the general public. Common errors include trusting friends with money, making poor investment choices, and failing to save for retirement. Notable examples include John Caudwell losing over £1 million to friends, Pat Cash losing £200,000 on a friend's investment advice, and Nick Leeson causing the collapse of Barings Bank with unauthorized trading. Other mistakes involve costly divorces, missed investment opportunities, and falling victim to scams. These anecdotes highlight the importance of financial literacy and caution in personal finance decisions.

Caribbean nations are preparing formal letters demanding that the British royal family, Lloyd’s of London, and the Church of England apologize and make reparations for their roles in the slave trade. The letters, to be sent by the end of the year, seek financial payments and reparative justice. King Charles III has shown support for research into the monarchy's links to the slave trade but has not formally apologized. Lloyd’s of London and the Church of England have expressed regret for their historical involvement. The UK government has been unresponsive to reparations, prompting efforts to bypass it.

Norman Lamont, former Chancellor of the Exchequer, reflects on his financial experiences and challenges during his political career. He emphasizes the importance of saving and investing, sharing personal anecdotes about his upbringing and financial decisions. Lamont advocates for increased pension contributions and government incentives to encourage saving. He also discusses his cautious investment approach and regrets missing out on the US tech boom. His financial priorities include supporting his family and ensuring his own financial security in old age.

Sinitta, the British-American singer known for her 1986 hit 'So Macho', shares her financial journey, including periods of homelessness and financial struggles in the 1990s. Now 60, she lives in a five-bedroom flat in South-West London and has founded Sin's Angels, an online community for women over 50. She reflects on her upbringing, financial mistakes, and the support from Simon Cowell in educating her children. Sinitta emphasizes the importance of health and a secure home, drawing from her own experiences of homelessness.

An underwater experiment combining 'coral IVF' and fish noise recordings offers hope for restoring coral reefs on the brink of collapse. Developed by scientists from Southern Cross University and the University of Bristol, the technique aims to repopulate degraded reefs, starting with the Maldives. The method, showcased on BBC's 'Our Changing Planet,' could be scaled up to preserve dying reefs globally. However, scientists warn that without addressing climate change, coral reefs remain at risk. The experiment underscores the urgent need for climate action to ensure the survival of coral ecosystems.

Two asteroids have been named in honor of British female astronomers Annie Maunder and Alice Everett, recognizing their significant yet historically overlooked contributions to astronomy. Despite facing gender-based challenges, both women made groundbreaking achievements in their fields. Maunder, a talented solar photographer, and Everett, a pioneer in early television technology, exemplified resilience and innovation. Their recognition serves not only to honor their past contributions but also to inspire future generations.

An innovative underwater experiment combining 'coral IVF' and fish noise recordings offers hope for restoring coral reefs on the brink of collapse. The global collaboration aims to significantly increase coral repopulation on degraded reefs, with initial trials in the Maldives. Techniques developed by Prof. Peter Harrison and Prof. Steve Simpson show promise in attracting coral larvae to settle and grow. The urgency of the global climate emergency underscores the need for such interventions, with the potential to preserve coral reefs if global temperature rises are controlled.

A rare 1493 Latin translation of Christopher Columbus's letter announcing his 'discovery' of America is set to be auctioned by Christie's, expected to fetch up to £1.2m. The letter, which played a significant role in European colonization, is now viewed as propaganda. Historians highlight Columbus's impact on opening transatlantic routes and initiating the Columbian Exchange, but also his brutal exploitation of Indigenous peoples. The document's sale comes amid a reevaluation of Columbus's legacy, with many now recognizing the darker aspects of his voyages and their consequences.

The NHS Confederation has warned that the upcoming strikes by consultants and junior doctors in England will put patients at significant risk, potentially affecting cancer patients the most. The strikes are expected to result in a record number of cancelled appointments and operations. The government plans to consult on imposing regulations to ensure minimum service levels during strikes, which could lead to clinicians losing their jobs if they participate in industrial action. The British Medical Association has indicated that strikes could be avoided with a credible pay offer. NHS Providers estimate the cost of industrial action to be over £1bn, impacting hospital budgets and potentially leading to further cuts.

Roger Whittaker, the renowned folk singer-songwriter known for hits like Durham Town and The Last Farewell, has passed away at 87. With a career spanning over five decades, Whittaker sold nearly 50 million records worldwide. Born in Nairobi to English parents, his music was influenced by East African rhythms. He retired in 2012 and is survived by his wife Natalie and their five children.

Caribbean nations are preparing to formally demand apologies and reparations from the British royal family for slavery. They will also approach Lloyd’s of London and the Church of England for their roles in the slave trade. The reparations commissions plan to send letters by year's end. King Charles III's ancestors were implicated in slavery, and while he supports research into the monarchy's links to the slave trade, he has not formally apologized. Lloyd’s has apologized for its role, and the Church of England has expressed shame for its past investments in slave-trading entities. Caribbean representatives intend to bypass the UK government, which has been unreceptive to reparations, by directly contacting the institutions involved.

Ministers in the UK are expected to ban single-use vapes following calls from councils, paediatricians, and environmental campaigners. The government has concluded that these products are primarily aimed at children, leading to addiction. The ban is anticipated to be announced in a consultation by the Department of Health and Social Care. The move follows alarming statistics on the environmental impact of disposable vapes and criticism of their child-friendly packaging. Other countries like Australia, Germany, and New Zealand have already implemented stricter regulations on vaping. The UK government aims to balance the benefits of vaping for adult smokers with the need to protect children and the environment.

Two asteroids have been named in honor of British female astronomers Annie Maunder and Alice Everett, recognizing their significant yet historically overlooked contributions to astronomy. Despite facing gender-based challenges, both women made groundbreaking achievements in their fields. Maunder, a talented astronomer and solar photographer, was forced to resign her post after marriage but continued to work as a volunteer assistant to her husband. Everett, who struggled to earn a living as an astronomer, later became a physicist and electrical engineer, contributing to early television technology. The recognition of their work aims to inspire future generations of women in science.

Caribbean nations are preparing to formally demand apologies and reparations from the British royal family, Lloyd’s of London, and the Church of England for their roles in the slave trade. National reparations commissions plan to send letters by year-end, with Grenada's commission chair, Arley Gill, advocating for reparative justice. The Guardian's previous reports revealed the royal family's ancestors' involvement in slavery. King Charles III has expressed support for researching the monarchy's links to the slave trade but has not issued a formal apology. Lloyd’s and the Church of England have acknowledged their historical participation and expressed regret. Lawyer Adrian Odle intends to address the institutions directly, bypassing the UK government, which has been unreceptive to reparations.

John Steinbeck's unpublished journal, revealing his struggles with the loss of his wife, children, and best friend in 1948, is expected to fetch up to $1 million at a Bonhams auction. The journal, described as his most intense and private, offers insight into his severe depression and the darkness he explored in his writing, particularly in 'East of Eden.' Steinbeck's other unpublished works, including an abandoned novella and essays, will also be auctioned. Susan Shillinglaw, a Steinbeck scholar, emphasizes the significance of these texts in understanding Steinbeck's personal life and literary themes.

A multi-year outbreak of Serratia marcescens at a California correctional facility was investigated using environmental sampling and genomic characterization. Whole genome sequencing identified a predominant cluster of clonally related S. marcescens strains from patient cases and items associated with illicit drug use. The study found that improperly diluted disinfectants, such as Cell Block 64 and Break Out, served as environmental reservoirs for the bacteria. The investigation revealed the persistence and diversity of outbreak strains, with no correlation between antimicrobial resistance genes. The findings underscore the importance of proper disinfectant use and maintenance to prevent such outbreaks.

The prize fund rate for UK's premium bonds has increased to its highest level since March 1999, now at 4.65%, improving the odds of winning. Despite this, many bondholders have never won a prize, and the question arises whether premium bonds are still a worthwhile investment compared to savings accounts with rising interest rates. Personal stories from bondholders vary, with some experiencing significant wins that changed their lives, while others have never seen a return. Expert analysis suggests that for certain taxpayers and savers, premium bonds remain an attractive option, especially considering the tax-free nature of the prizes.

Pakistani police are nearing the location of the family of 10-year-old Sara Sharif, whose death in Surrey sparked an international manhunt. Sara's body was found with multiple injuries after her father, Urfan Sharif, called from Pakistan. Sharif, his partner Beinash Batool, and brother Faisal Malik are wanted for questioning and are believed to be in Islamabad. Rawalpindi police chief Syed Khurram Ali reported progress in the search. Sara was previously known to Surrey county council, and Surrey police have appealed for information to understand Sara's lifestyle before her death.

The author recounts the cherished memories of their family dog, Sylvester, who was adopted on New Year’s Eve 1990 and became deeply attached to the author's mother. Sylvester's antics, such as playing with a basketball, brought joy to the family, and his death 15 years ago was a significant loss. The author's mother passed away earlier in the year, and the love for dogs she instilled in the author has been a source of comfort during the grieving process, especially through the bond with the author's new dog, Rosie.

The article highlights the growing educational divide between state school pupils and those privately educated, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. It features personal accounts from two state school students, Eleanor White and Didar Rahman, who describe the significant disruptions and challenges they faced during their GCSE and A-level studies. Both students express feelings of being disadvantaged and unfairly treated due to the pandemic's impact on their education, leading to poorer-than-expected exam results and additional financial burdens.

Two men were found dead at a house in Hartlepool, County Durham, shortly before midnight on Friday. A woman in her 30s has been arrested on suspicion of murder and released on police bail. Cleveland Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the deaths, and the families of the deceased are being supported by specially trained officers. The property has been cordoned off, and police patrols have been increased in the area. The North East Ambulance Service responded to the incident but stood down after attending the scene.

A new film starring Jodie Comer, 'The End We Start From,' explores motherhood amidst an apocalyptic climate disaster in London. Based on Megan Hunter's 2017 novel, the film intertwines the intimate experience of childbirth with a global catastrophe, aiming to evoke emotional and personal reflections on the climate crisis. Directed by Mahalia Belo and adapted by Alice Birch, the film highlights the bond between two new mothers and the resilience required to survive. The narrative underscores the beauty of the world and the urgent need for climate action, while also celebrating themes of love and community.