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I visited a hidden Hertfordshire gem with a Natural History Museum and independent shops

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Cambridgeshire Live

I visited a town in Hertfordshire, under two hours from Cambridge, and it was a hidden gem

The UK is home to countless hidden gems that attract little to no tourist footfall. Whether it’s the Cotswolds or further afield in North Wales, exploring these lesser-known spots is something of a passion.

One such discovery is a charming town in Hertfordshire, boasting a stunning high street and an abundance of places to eat.

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Among Hertfordshire’s finest destinations is Tring, a town brimming with natural beauty, fascinating history and thriving local businesses. Sitting just one hour from London, it remains remarkably underrated and is well worth a visit, whether you’re passing through or keen to venture somewhere new.

Perched on the edge of the Chiltern Hills, Tring is a historic market town in western Hertfordshire that has been welcoming visitors for centuries. With a population of just over 12,000, it combines all the charm of a traditional English town with the practicality of a well-connected commuter hub.

Although evidence suggests the area has been inhabited since prehistoric times, Tring rose to prominence during the medieval period, receiving its market charter in the 14th century.

Its position along key coaching routes helped the town to prosper, drawing in trade and travellers alike.

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Today, visitors are greeted by elegant Georgian and Victorian architecture lining the high street, which is dotted with independent retailers, traditional pubs and artisan shops.

Things to do in Tring

Natural History Museum

One of Tring’s most celebrated attractions is the Natural History Museum at Tring, one of the UK’s most remarkable museums. The museum exists thanks to Lionel Walter Rothschild, the eldest son of the famous banking family.

From an early age, he developed a passion for animals, gathering specimens from across the world and ultimately assembling one of the largest private zoological collections ever created.

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In 1892, he made the museum accessible to visitors, showcasing thousands of mounted mammals, birds, reptiles and insects collected from every corner of the globe. His collection gained international acclaim, and following his death, it was handed over to the Natural History Museum in London, which maintains the Tring Museum to this day.

The museum proved captivating, with beautiful wooden cabinets containing everything from brightly coloured birds to rare mammals.

Explore the high street

Tring’s wide high street forms the centre of the town. Packed with independent boutiques, antique shops, gift shops and cafes, it’s an ideal way to pass a leisurely morning.

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The blend of Georgian architecture and vibrant shopfronts generates an inviting atmosphere throughout the town.

Tring park

Once part of the Rothschild family’s estate, Tring Park offers expansive views over Hertfordshire and the neighbouring countryside.

It boasts woodland trails, open grassland and scenic viewpoints that make it particularly favoured amongst walkers and runners. The Grand Union Canal is also a popular destination for walkers and cyclists.

Food and drink

For a town of its size, Tring boasts a remarkable array of independent cafés, pubs and restaurants, making it a sought-after destination for food enthusiasts.

Begin your day at Black Goo Coffee, one of Tring’s most beloved spots. Renowned for its expertly crafted coffee, the café also offers an excellent food menu.

For a quintessential British pub experience, the Tufted Duck, formerly known as the Akeman, provides seasonal menus, locally sourced produce and a wonderful beer garden. This characterful pub serves mouth-watering food, including traditional Sunday roasts.

Those with a passion for Italian cuisine frequently make their way to Nonna’s, a family-run restaurant celebrated for its freshly prepared pasta and authentic pizzas.

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Beer enthusiasts would be well advised to visit Tring Brewery. The award-winning brewery has been crafting traditional ales in the town since the early 1990s, supplying numerous pubs throughout Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire.

Nearby attractions

Ashridge Estate

Just a short drive from Tring lies the breathtaking Ashridge Estate, one of the National Trust’s most stunning rural destinations. Ancient woodlands, rolling hills and miles of walking trails draw visitors throughout the year, while the food and drink on offer are equally impressive.

Whipsnade Zoo

Less than 15 minutes from Tring, Whipsnade Zoo ranks amongst Europe’s largest wildlife conservation parks. Home to elephants, rhinos, lions, giraffes and hundreds of other species, it makes for a thoroughly rewarding day out for the whole family.

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Berkhamstead

The nearby market town of Berkhamstead provides another wonderful destination, boasting the striking remains of Berkhamstead Castle, charming independent retailers and a lively café scene centred along its bustling high street.

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Coronation Street fans make Kit Green demand as they take sides in Gary Windass war

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Manchester Evening News

Kit Green has made it clear that he’s plotting to pin Theo Silverton’s murder on Gary Windass in Corrie

Coronation Street fans have demanded that Kit Green is ‘brought down a peg or two’ as he plots to pin Theo Silverton’s murder on Gary Windass.

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It’s fair to say that fans of the ITV soap, which is filmed in Salford, have taken sides after copper Kit was seen issuing Gary with an ultimatum in a bid to get his partner, Sarah Platt, out of prison for killing the abusive builder.

As viewers will recall, the builder’s lifeless body was found by a horrified Betsy Swain on the night of her mum, Lisa Swain’s, wedding to Carla Connor, but it wasn’t until a week after the wedding aired that it was confirmed Theo had died after the murder was teased to be him and four other Weatherfield villains.

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A murder investigation quickly got underway, with Corrie confirming Theo’s husband, Todd Grimshaw, as a suspect, along with his loved ones, George Shuttleworth, Summer Spellman, Christina Boyd, as well as Theo’s friend-turned enemy, Gary Windass, and Theo’s ex-wife, Danielle Silverton.

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But it was eventually revealed to Corrie viewers, in scenes aired in June, that it wasn’t any of the six, as it was Sarah who appeared to deal the blow that sent a drunk Theo tumbling off the scaffolding outside his flat and plummeting to the ground – before she called on her former flame, Gary, for help.

Unable to keep her secret for any longer, Sarah ended up confessing to Todd, who ended their friendship shortly after, and eventually told her detective beau the truth, when he dropped to one knee to pop the question. Despite his job, Kit vowed to help Sarah and as she didn’t want Gary to get into trouble either, he reluctantly agreed to help him too.

However, last month, Sarah was arrested on suspicion of killing Theo. She was later charged as the evidence stacked against her, and Sarah ended up admitting to the murder, telling DS Lisa Connor-Swain it was in self-defence.

Kit is now determined to get Sarah off the hook and during Thursday’s (August 6) visit to Weatherfield, which comes as a number of Corrie stars are filming what appears to be Sarah’s court case, having been spotted filming on location at Bolton Crown Court, he continued to search the data scrubbed from Gary’s phone after getting a favour from a mate.

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After he and Bethany Platt trawled Gary’s GPS data, he planned to search the waste ground for the metal pipe used to kill Theo. Later, Kit found Gary in the Rovers, where Kit told him he’d had “an interesting day” and to pop over to his and Sarah’s flat later.

When he did, Kit told Gary he knew where the murder weapon was and that the GPS data he found would be enough to place Gary there, even if the mental pole didn’t carry his DNA. Gary tried to fight back, but in the end, Kit issued him an ultimatum – he either confesses to Theo’s murder, or Kit will hand over what he knows.

And Corrie fans have made their feelings clear that, despite Gary’s dodgy past, they seemingly don’t want to see him go down for Theo’s death. @sam_fletcher78 said: “Team Gary! Kit needs to be brought down a peg or two!” @julie49parkinson commented: “Kit needs to do one. Team Gary!”

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@anoif_9090 posted: “Kit needs to be found out and punished!!” @bigabiggsy argued: “Kit n Gary together would be an unstoppable duo. Need as mates not rivals.” @riojuniperj wrote: “Can’t stand Kit! Please send him off with Jodie . Team Gary any day.”

@NoniFlax101 shared: “Kit thinks he’s so clever, but I doubt Sarah will forgive him for this – his vendetta against Gary is fuelled by nothing but jealousy. And Sarah would never betray Gary. #Corrie.” @SouthernCazza1 added: “Disliking Kit more and more. Liking Gary more and more. Praying that Bethany’s going to go to Gary and Sarah and snitch #Corrie.”

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Terminally ill man faces race against time to fulfil dying wish to see Bon Jovi concert

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Daily Record

Donald Munro has been diagnosed with a rare, incurable cancer and has been placed on palliative care.

A terminally ill man is facing a race against time to fulfil his dying wish to see Bon Jovi live in concert. Donald Munro, 45, from the Highlands, has lived with the incurable muscle condition idiopathic torsion dystonia since childhood.

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Despite spending most of his life in a wheelchair and facing significant physical challenges, he has refused to let his illness define him – even after being diagnosed with a small-cell carcinoma of the bladder, a rare, incurable cancer.

He has since been placed on palliative care. Donald, who now lives in Inverness, says his final wish is to see his music icons Bon Jovi, whose music has helped him through “good times and bad”. He was delighted when the rockers announced a show at Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh on August 28, but sadly failed to secure accessible tickets.

As time has become precious to him and his family, he is more determined than ever to make his wish come true – to attend the concert or even receive a short personal video message or video call from Jon Bon Jovi himself.

Donald told Edinburgh Live: “If I could see Bon Jovi one last time at Murrayfield, it would mean the world to me.

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“If that’s not possible, a short video message or a quick video call would be something I’ll treasure forever.

“I tried to see Bon Jovi under my own steam and was disappointed to miss out.

“But I never imagined that, only a short time later, my circumstances would change so dramatically.

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“I did everything I could to make seeing Bon Jovi live again happen. Unfortunately, it wasn’t to be.

“The right medication and Bon Jovi’s music and has helped me build a life for myself I never imagined possible.”

Donald started experiencing muscle spasms in his arm aged eight which gradually spread to the rest of his body.

By the time he was diagnosed aged 10, his legs were too weak to support him and he used a wheelchair full time.

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Music became his passion, particularly Bon Jovi. He says the band has provided the “soundtrack to his life”.

He was able to see them in concert at London’s Hyde Park in 2003, but has never had the opportunity again.

Donald said: “Bon Jovi allowed my body respond to music without me worrying about what anyone thought.

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“For the first time in a long time, I felt like myself again.”

Donald’s friends have created a short documentary sharing Donald’s extraordinary story to help his wish come true.

They are inviting people to help spread the word in the hope that it reaches Jon Bon Jovi and his team.

Abi Macdonald, who has been helping coordinate the campaign, said: “Donald has faced challenges that most of us can’t begin to imagine, but anyone who meets him is struck by his warmth, humour and positivity.

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“This campaign isn’t about sympathy—it’s about helping a genuinely remarkable man achieve one final dream. If enough people share his story, you never know where it might end up.”

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Neighbours on Avon Road, Tyldesley win Postcode Lottery

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Neighbours on Avon Road, Tyldesley win Postcode Lottery

The M29 7HN postcode that covers Avon Road in Tyldesley was one of 20 of the most recent winners announced on Friday, August 7.

Ticket holders who live in the postcode are entitled to a prize of £1,000.

They won today alongside 19 other postcodes nationwide.

The postcode around Avon Road in Tyldesley was one of the winners (Image: Google Maps)

Postcode Lottery is a subscription-based lottery which raises money for charities.

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Not only do players win cash prizes, but good causes also receive essential support.

A participant’s postcode works as your ticket.

For £12.50 a month, participants are entered into every prize draw and there are guaranteed winners every day.

People play with their chosen postcode and are automatically entered into all draws.

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Prizes include the weekly Millionaire Street prize and monthly £250,000 or Postcode Millions prizes.

If a postcode gets picked in the £250,000 prize, for example, every ticket in that postcode wins £250,000.

Every day, there are £1,000 prizes to be won for every ticket in 20 postcodes.

Anyone who plays with two tickets will receive double the winning prize amount.

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Players have raised more than £1.8 billion for thousands of good causes in Britain and internationally, funding charities including Maggie’s, Alzheimer’s Society, Dogs Trust, Mind, NSPCC, and many others, as well as thousands of small local community projects.

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Man City goalkeeper transfer thinking – James Trafford deal, clauses, add-ons, replacement

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Manchester Evening News
Man City goalkeeper transfer thinking – James Trafford deal, clauses, add-ons, replacement – Manchester Evening News

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The neuroscience behind a ‘runner’s high’

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The neuroscience behind a ‘runner’s high’

While most runners are chasing after a new goal or a personal best, some are chasing after something slightly more elusive: a runner’s high.

Some describe it as euphoria. Others as calm, clarity or even a sense of being completely absorbed in the moment. Many people experience some version of it after a long run or a spin class.

For years, scientists believed the phenomenon was caused by endorphins, the body’s natural opioids. But more recent neuroscientific research now indicates that this might not wholly be the case.

Instead, a runner’s high appears to emerge from several brain systems working together. This explains why a runner’s high has so many far-reaching effects – and why these effects can often persist long after the initial experience of euphoria.

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The brain’s own cannabis system

Endorphins are naturally-occurring brain chemicals which are released during periods of physical stress help to reduce pain.

Aerobic exercise increases circulating endorphins. Numerous studies have demonstrated higher levels of the endorphin beta-endorphin following prolonged aerobic exercise, such as running. This is why endorphins were long believed to be the sole cause of a runner’s high.

But there’s a key problem with the endorphin theory. This is because endorphins circulating in the blood struggle to cross the blood-brain barrier – the tightly regulated system that protects the brain from substances in the bloodstream.

So while endorphins may well contribute to pain relief elsewhere in the body, they cannot fully explain the feelings of euphoria and emotional wellbeing generated by a runner’s high within the brain itself.

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So scientists began searching for another explanation.

The breakthrough came with the discovery that exercise also activates the endocannabinoid system.

Endocannabinoids are naturally produced by our bodies. They help with functions such as pleasure, memory and stress regulation.

One of the most important chemicals produced by the endocannabinoid system is anandamide, one of the brain’s natural “feel-good” chemicals. It helps to reduce anxiety, ease pain and create feelings of calm and wellbeing. And, unlike endorphins, anandamide crosses the blood-brain barrier with ease.

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After a long bout of aerobic exercise, blood concentrations of anandamide rise substantially. Once inside the brain, it activates cannabinoid receptors in regions involved in emotion, motivation, reward and pain perception.

The resulting effects are remarkably similar to many features of the runner’s high – including reduced anxiety, better movement, less pain and feelings of calm.

This isn’t to suggest that endorphins play no role in a runner’s high. Modern neuroscience suggests endorphins and endocannabinoids work together – with endocannabinoids probably playing the larger role in producing the emotional aspects of the experience.

Several other neurotransmitters also play a part in a runner’s high.

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Dopamine, which is central to motivation and reward, helps reinforce actions that are beneficial for survival. Rather than simply producing pleasure, dopamine encourages us to repeat a behaviour that the brain considers valuable.

A runner’s high appears to emerge from several brain systems working together.
Gorodenkoff/ Shutterstock

Serotonin contributes to emotional stability and wellbeing, while noradrenaline enhances alertness and focus.

Exercise also stimulates the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which supports the growth of new and existing brain connections and plays a vital role in learning and memory

Although BDNF probably doesn’t produce the immediate euphoria associated with runner’s high, it may help explain why regular running can improve various aspects of wellbeing.

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The benefits of a runner’s high

A runner’s high is about far more than pleasure chemicals.

Running changes how different brain networks communicate. During prolonged, rhythmic exercise (such as running), activity within the default mode network – the collection of brain regions associated with self-reflection, worry and thinking – appears to decrease.

At the same time, brain regions involved in attention, movement and sensory processing become more coordinated. This shift may help explain why running often produces feelings of mental clarity or being completely immersed in the present moment.

For many people, the mental benefits of a runner’s high even outlast the run itself.

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Exercise influences stress regulation, inflammation, neuroplasticity (the brain’s ability to adapt and change), sleep quality and emotional processing. This combination of benefits is something which few medical interventions achieve.

Importantly, scientists are increasingly recognising that the mental health benefits of exercise extend well beyond the runner’s high itself. Even people who never experience the euphoria of a runner’s high still show meaningful improvements in mood, cognition and resilience with regular physical activity.

But for those who still want to chase after a runner’s high, research suggests there’s a sweet spot to achieving it – and it doesn’t require long-distance, extreme endurance.

Most studies report increases in endocannabinoids after approximately 30 to 60 minutes of continuous aerobic exercise performed at moderate to vigorous intensity – so roughly 70-85% of maximum heart rate. The key is that the physiological stress is high enough to trigger these neurochemical responses without overwhelming the body.

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That said, there is considerable individual variation. Although one survey found that around two-thirds of recreational runners had experienced a runner’s high at least once, it didn’t necessarily happen on every run.

Some people also appear naturally more responsive to exercise-induced endocannabinoid release. Genetics, sex, fitness level, sleep quality, psychological state and even expectations may all influence whether someone experiences runner’s high on any given day, too.

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TransPennine Express reduced service after power failure

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TransPennine Express services into York disrupted all day

TransPennine Express (TPE) said a reduced service will run until 10am today.

A spokesperson for the train operator also said trains across the network may be delayed or cancelled at short notice until noon.


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Around 2pm yesterday, electricity cut out in the main control hub for North West England’s railways – the Manchester rail operating centre – near Ashburys station in the city’s east.

National Rail said the severity of the disruption means a number of trains and crew are in the wrong locations for the start of today’s planned services.

Passengers are being advised to check their journeys before travelling.

TPE said tickets dated for August 6 can be used on any of its trains on the booked route today, August 7, without additional charges.

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Advance Purchase tickets for today will have relaxed restrictions, allowing travel on any TPE train on the booked route.

Refunds are available for cancelled journeys or if TPE passengers are unable to complete their travel.

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Affected TPE passengers can also use their tickets at no extra cost on Avanti West Coast services between Edinburgh/Glasgow Central and Preston, CrossCountry services between Leeds, York, Newcastle, and Edinburgh, and LNER services between York, Newcastle, and Edinburgh, up until 12:00 today.

East Midlands Railway services between Liverpool Lime Street and Sheffield, Metrolink services between Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly, and Manchester Victoria, and all Bee Network buses are also accepting these TPE tickets up until 12:00 today.

The main services through York to the North West area terminate at Manchester Airport and Liverpool.

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Raleigh bike brand faces chop after owner begins insolvency proceedings

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Downfall of an icon: The fate of Raleigh is now in the hands of administrators

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The business that owns iconic Nottingham bike manufacturer Raleigh has begun insolvency proceedings.  

Accell, based in the Netherlands, acquired Raleigh for $100million in 2012 but said this week it had ‘exhausted all the available options’ and was ‘no longer able to meet its financial obligations’.

The fate of the Raleigh brand will now be decided by administrators. 

Raleigh confirmed a loss of £30.1million before tax in 2023 in its annual financial statement published in January 2025, against losses of £6.8million in 2022. 

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Raleigh previously confirmed redundancies in Nottingham in 2024 following a review of the company at the end of 2023 and left its headquarters in Church Street, Eastwood, to move to new premises. 

Raleigh was founded in 1887 and grew to be the largest bike manufacturer in the world. 

Downfall of an icon: The fate of Raleigh is now in the hands of administrators 

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At its peak, Raleigh was making 1million bikes a year at its factory in Nottingham and employed more than 8,000 people. 

Raleigh created the popular Chopper bike, with extended handlebars and seat with a backrest, in the 1970s. 

Jonas Nilsson, chief executive of Accell, said it was ‘a deeply sad and frustrating situation’.

Accell underwent a restructuring in February 2026, securing additional funding from shareholders and lenders, and reducing debts. 

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Accell said it had held discussions with several interested potential buyers, scrutinised multiple offers and looked at getting regulatory approval for a potential merger to help ensure Raleigh stayed viable. 

Nilsson said: ‘It is an especially difficult moment for our employees, creditors, customers, suppliers, and partners. 

‘Every realistic option for the future of the business has been tirelessly explored, and none have resulted in a solution to continue the Group in its current form. 

‘Our immediate focus is to support an orderly process, provide clarity wherever possible, and work with the relevant court-appointed administrators to preserve viable activities and employment where circumstances allow.’

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European bike and parts makers have come under pressure from Chinese rivals in recent decades, leading to fewer survivors in the sector. 

Accell was bought in 2022 in a £1.2billion buyout by the US private equity firm KKR. 

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Wales breaking news plus weather and traffic updates (Friday, August 7)

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Wales Online

Residents living in the shadow of the Llanwonno wildfire have described the fear of watching flames and smoke creep towards their homes, coming within just yards of their gardens.

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) said on Thursday that the major incident had been stood down following days after helicopters releasing water onto the scorched earth. The fire covers 400 hectares – the equivalent to about 560 football pitches. On Sunday afternoon the scale was equivalent to 28 football pitches.

Residents in the nearby village of Blaenllechau say they have been living with smoke, road closures and fears they could be forced to leave their homes over the last few days. Read more here.

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Body found in search for missing St Davids rock climber

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Ben, 47, from is believed to have been intending to go rock climbing when he was reported missing on Wednesday, August 5

A body has been discovered during the search for a missing man.

Ben, from St Davids, in Pembrokeshire, wales, is believed to have been planning a rock climbing trip before he was reported missing on Wednesday, August 5.

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Dyfed Powys Police confirmed that on Thursday, a body was recovered in the coastal area of Caer Bwdy.

In a statement released on Thursday evening, the force said: “Formal identification has not yet taken place, and while the family have been informed of this development, we are not in a position to confirm the identity of the deceased at this time. They are being supported by specially trained officers.

“We ask that the family’s privacy is respected while enquiries continue.”

Ben, 47, is thought to have set out from his St Davids home on Wednesday, August 5 at around midday with the intention of going rock climbing, reports Wales Online.

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It is understood he was heading to either the Carreg y Barcud area, near Trelerw, or Caer Bwdy Bay, on the outskirts of St Davids in Pembrokeshire.

Concern grew amongst Ben’s family and friends after hours passed without any contact, prompting them to raise the alarm and call the emergency services.

Both a Coastguard vessel and helicopter were deployed as part of the search operation.

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Charity warns of likely increase in asthma attacks as pupils head back to school

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Analysis by Asthma + Lung UK Scotland reveals there was a sharp spike in the number of asthma emergency admissions for children when Scottish kids went back to school last year.

As children prepare to head back to the classroom, Asthma + Lung UK Scotland warns many could be at risk of having a potentially life-threatening asthma attack.

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Analysis by Asthma + Lung UK Scotland reveals there was a sharp spike in the number of asthma emergency admissions for children when Scottish kids went back to school last year.

The number of children rushed to hospital with asthma symptoms in September 2025 was more than twice that in July 2025.

Now the charity is concerned asthma hospital admissions for children in Scotland may increase again in August and September this year, as children return to school.

Asthma + Lung UK Scotland’s most recent data from 2025 shows there were 55 hospital admissions for school-aged children in July, 73 in August and 146 in September.

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In the last five years there have been 1,138 children admitted to hospital in an emergency for asthma in August and September.

This increase in hospital admissions can be explained by the disruption of preventer inhaler routines over school holidays, leading to children’s airways becoming more sensitive to asthma triggers when they go back to school.

According to the charity’s annual survey of people with lung conditions these triggers often include viruses, colds and dust.

Public Health Minister Maree Todd said: “We welcome Asthma + Lung UK Scotland’s campaign work to raise awareness and help ensure children with asthma get the support they need to stay safe and well at school.

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“Alongside this, Scotland’s National Severe Asthma Pathway, introduced earlier this year, is helping to improve the early identification and management of severe asthma across NHS Scotland.

“The Scottish Government has also issued guidance to schools, education authorities and health boards on the use of reliever inhalers in an emergency.

“Schools have discretionary powers to buy and hold spare salbutamol inhaler devices, without the need for a prescription, to use in emergency situations when a pupil’s own device is not available.”

Joseph Carter, Head of Asthma + Lung UK Scotland, added: “When children go back to school after the summer holidays, a rise in the number of asthma attacks is often seen, unfortunately leading to more hospital visits. An increase in viruses, coughs and colds or dust mites in schools could be to blame.

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“With this in mind, Asthma + Lung UK Scotland is asking parents and teachers to look out for signs that their child or pupil’s asthma may be worsening. This could be breathlessness, wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and if it is, to take urgent action.

“Over the hectic summer holidays, preventer inhaler routines can sometimes slip, which can leave children much more vulnerable to an asthma attack when they return to school and are around more triggers.

“As a reminder too for schools, we would encourage them to download our fantastic free Asthma at School poster, so they are prepared for the new term and know what to do if a pupil does have an asthma attack.”

If you are concerned about your child’s asthma, please call Asthma + Lung UK’s helpline, which is run with thanks to funds raised by players of the Postcode Lottery. The number to call is 0300 222 5800.

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