A new study suggests that eating more fruit may lessen the impact of air pollution on lung function. Researchers from the University of Leicester analysed UK Biobank data from 207,421 participants to explore links between diet and lung health. They compared fruit, vegetables and wholegrain intake with FEV1, the amount of air exhaled in one second, and used fine particulate matter (PM2.5) as the pollution measure. For every five micrograms […]

The National Trust has launched a commission inviting artists and organisations to create works from the remaining timber of the Sycamore Gap tree, which stood beside Hadrian’s Wall for up to 120 years. The tree was felled on 28 September 2023 during Storm Agnes, in the pitch black, by Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers. Following a trial at Newcastle Crown Court, the pair were jailed for four years and three […]

An international team of astronomers and astrochemists has reviewed years of data to assess whether cosmic dust is porous. The grains, which help form stars and planets, are found in regions such as the Pillars of Creation, and the work appears in Astronomy and Astrophysics Review. The study involved Professor Martin McCoustra of Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh among its contributors. Researchers describe the dust grains as far from solid rocks. […]

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has announced a widening of the free breakfast clubs scheme, with around 2,000 primary schools in England expected to join the rollout. The plan is supported by £80 million (€92.0 million), and ministers say families could save up to £450 a year in childcare costs (€517.5). Ms Phillipson unveiled the plan as Labour delegates prepared to attend the party’s annual conference in Liverpool. She said: 'The […]

West Ham United have dismissed Graham Potter as head coach after nine months in charge. Potter was relieved of his duties two days ahead of West Ham's Premier League clash with Everton. The club's supporters had turnover against Potter following last weekend's defeat to Crystal Palace, and the owners have acted as West Ham seek a fourth manager in 18 months. In a club statement, West Ham United said: "West […]