Wood burners linked to 2,500 deaths a year in the UK, analysis finds

Mark Killick, a notorious cowboy builder, has been found guilty of defrauding customers out of £1.25 million by charging for home renovation work that he left unfinished. This case highlights the ongoing issue of fraudulent builders in the UK, leaving many homeowners in distress and financial turmoil. It's a stark reminder for consumers to thoroughly vet contractors before hiring them.

A new bill aimed at granting legal rights to nature has been introduced in the UK, backed by prominent campaigners Chris Packham and Natalie Bennett. This initiative seeks to establish a legal duty of care for the environment, emphasizing that true economic progress and social justice cannot be achieved without respecting the natural world. This proposal is significant as it could reshape how businesses and governments interact with nature, potentially leading to more sustainable practices and policies.

The pressure on new mothers to lose weight quickly, especially before significant events like weddings, is leading some to consider weight-loss drugs like GLP-1s, despite warnings from the NHS about their safety during breastfeeding. Lydia, a new mother, reflects on how the pervasive conversation around these drugs influenced her thoughts on weight loss during her pregnancy. This issue highlights the societal expectations placed on women to 'bounce back' after childbirth, raising concerns about the mental and physical health implications for mothers.

The NHS is set to include questions about menopause in health checks for the first time, a move that experts believe will greatly benefit millions of women in England. This change is significant as it highlights the importance of addressing women's health issues and encourages better awareness of health checks among the population. By integrating menopause-related questions, the NHS aims to provide more comprehensive care and support for women, ensuring their health needs are recognized and addressed.

Storm Benjamin is currently impacting the UK, bringing with it four yellow weather warnings that highlight the potential for severe weather conditions. This situation is significant as it raises concerns about flooding and travel disruptions, prompting authorities to advise caution. The Met Office is closely monitoring the storm's progression, and residents are urged to stay informed and prepared for possible adverse effects.

Starting in 2026, menopause screening will be included in NHS health checks, a significant step towards better women's health. This change aims to raise awareness and support for women experiencing menopause, but campaigners caution that low attendance rates may mean some women still miss out on this important service. It's a positive move, yet highlights the need for increased outreach and education.

Keir Starmer's government is reportedly considering abandoning its ambitious goal of eliminating nearly all fossil fuels from the UK's electricity supply by 2030. This decision, driven by the rising costs associated with transitioning to greener energy sources, could have significant implications for the UK's climate commitments and energy strategy. By prioritizing lower energy bills over environmental targets, the government risks undermining public trust and the country's long-term sustainability efforts.

During Donald Trump's recent visit to the UK, four men were arrested for projecting an image of Trump alongside Jeffrey Epstein onto Windsor Castle. However, they have since been released without any charges. This incident highlights the ongoing public discourse surrounding Trump and Epstein, reflecting the complex sentiments many hold regarding their controversial legacies.

Oil prices have surged following the US sanctions on Russia's Rosneft and Lukoil, indicating a significant shift in the energy market. This development is crucial as it not only affects global oil supply but also reflects the ongoing geopolitical tensions. Additionally, the weaker-than-expected UK inflation report has led to speculation about potential interest rate cuts by the Bank of England, which could further influence economic conditions. The interplay between these factors highlights the complexities of the current financial landscape.

In the second men's one-day international match between Australia and India at Adelaide Oval, Australia is chasing a target of 265 runs to secure a victory. The match is currently underway, with India starting cautiously against Australia's Josh Hazlewood, who has previously troubled their top order. This game is significant as it showcases the competitive spirit of both teams and could influence their standings in the series.

Volkswagen is grappling with a significant chip crisis following the Dutch government's seizure of semiconductor producer Nexperia, which occurred under pressure from the US. This situation is critical as it highlights the ongoing global semiconductor shortage that has been affecting the automotive industry, leading to production delays and potential financial losses for major car manufacturers like Volkswagen. The implications of this crisis could ripple through the supply chain, affecting not just Volkswagen but the entire automotive sector.

The final T20 match between New Zealand and England is underway in Auckland, with England aiming for a series victory. The match has started with some exciting plays, including a strong opening from Tim Seifert. This game is significant as it not only determines the series winner but also showcases the talents of both teams in a thrilling format of cricket.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has praised the recent sanctions imposed on Russian oil and gas by the EU and the US, highlighting their importance in supporting Ukraine amidst ongoing conflict. These measures aim to weaken Russia's economic power and could play a crucial role in the broader strategy to restore peace in the region. As discussions continue on utilizing frozen assets for Ukraine's benefit, the international community's commitment to standing against aggression is more vital than ever.

A recent discovery at the Dounreay nuclear power plant near Thurso has revealed a waste particle that is considered the most radioactive found in the last three years. This finding is significant as it highlights ongoing monitoring efforts and the importance of safety in nuclear waste management.