On a warm evening in May, swifts scream over rooftops, chasing insects above the traffic. A fox slips along a garden wall while gulls squabble on a supermarket roof. We tend to treat these animals as visitors. But they’re residents too, living alongside us in places designed for people.

My recent research argues this needs to change. Instead of asking how nature can make cities better for humans, urban planners should consider what cities owe the many species that already live in them.

More than half the world’s population now lives in urban areas, while cities continue to expand into wildlife habitats.

In the UK, swifts provide a distinct example. They nest in gaps under eaves and roof tiles, which can disappear when older buildings are demolished, re-roofed or insulated. UK swift numbers have fallen by around 60% since 1995. In 2021, the species was added to a list of birds at greatest risk of extinction.

The issue isn’t simply how we can make cities greener. It’s who we think cities are for.

For my new study, I compared approaches to incorporating nature into urban planning, including environmental offsetting, sustainable development and nature-based solutions such as green roofs, street trees and wetlands. I also examined cases where governments and courts have given species and ecosystems a different status in decision-making.

The pattern I found was striking. These approaches have become increasingly good at showing how nature benefits people, but much less willing to ask whether other species have interests of their own.

Trees are planted because they cool streets. Wetlands are protected because they can hold floodwater. Parks are funded because they improve our health.

All of those benefits are important. But they can also leave nature looking like a service provider for people. If a tree no longer provides enough shade, or a wetland becomes more valuable as development land, what happens to the argument for protecting it?

This is where the idea of “multispecies justice” comes in. It starts from a different premise, where animals, plants and ecosystems are not simply amenities that provide benefits to people. They are co-inhabitants of places we share.

That changes the question urban planning asks. Instead of only considering what nature can do for us, it asks what responsibilities we have towards the species with which we live.

What would change?

This doesn’t mean turning cities into wildlife reserves. It can involve small changes to decisions that shape urban life.

For example, before restoring a river, planners could consider whether the proposed changes are likely to create conditions in which fish and frogs can thrive. They could then assess the project not only on its effects on flooding or visitor numbers.

A development could be designed around established wildlife routes rather than treating them as obstacles to mitigate later. Environmental assessments could consider what a new road does to the routes used by badgers, bats or other animals, alongside its effects on drainage and emissions. Some places might be left undisturbed during breeding seasons.

There are already examples of governments experimenting with this type of approach. In New Zealand, the Whanganui River was recognised as a legal person in 2017, with guardians appointed to represent its interests. Colombia’s Atrato River was recognised as a subject of rights in 2016, with a similar system of guardianship.

These cases aren’t straightforward solutions. The rights granted to rivers still have to operate within existing political and legal systems. Research suggests implementation in Colombia has been uneven.

But they illustrate a different way of thinking. Nature doesn’t have to justify its existence solely through the benefits it provides to people.

The idea is also beginning to appear in more conventional urban planning. Barcelona has built green corridors linking parks to the hills beyond the city so that wildlife can move through it.

In the UK, Scotland has become the first nation by law to require swift bricks in new buildings. These hollow bricks contain a nesting cavity and cost roughly £30 each. But its significance is larger than the brick itself. It treats the presence of another species as something that should be considered when we design buildings, rather than as an unexpected problem to deal with afterwards.

In England, efforts to require swift bricks by law were rejected by the House of Lords. The UK government has instead pursued their inclusion through planning policy and development requirements.

A different way of designing cities

None of this makes urban planning simple. Species can have competing needs, and protecting wildlife can sometimes conflict with other environmental or social goals.

A protected predator might threaten a vulnerable population. Preserving a habitat might complicate a development intended to reduce overheating. There won’t always be a simple answer.

But those conflicts already exist. The difference is that they’re often resolved using systems that give human interests the greatest weight. Multi-species justice asks us to make those choices more explicit.

À lire aussi :
Why building nature-centric housing involves a mindset shift

Cities are already shared habitats. The birds nesting in our roofs, the insects in our gardens, the bats above our streets and the organisms in our soils are not simply passing through. They are part of urban life.

The challenge for planners is to decide whether they’ll continue to design cities primarily around human needs, adding nature where it provides a benefit, or begin to treat the flourishing of other species as a legitimate consideration in its own right.

Ethan McGee’s header settled Friday night’s tie in favour of David Healy’s side at Windsor Park on a week when the Toronto Investment Group’s takeover of Cliftonville finally got over the line

Jim Magilton focused on the cloud rather than the silver lining after a momentous week for Cliftonville ended with a 1-0 defeat to Linfield at Windsor Park.

With confirmation of the Toronto Investment Group’s takeover finally arriving after a protracted saga, there is a renewed sense of optimism among many at Solitude, having witnessed far too many players walk out the door to join wealthier rivals.

It should mean Magilton has the opportunity to build something meaningful in north Belfast rather than wheeling and dealing every summer, but in the immediate aftermath of losing to an Ethan McGee header from a corner, the Reds boss was only concerned with the here and now.

When asked if the noise around the club in recent days might have been a distraction for his players ahead of Friday night’s game, Magilton was having none of it.

“I’ve kept them well away from it,” he said. “Obviously, the press… they’re not deaf and they’re not blind. They know the news.

“Everyone has a sense of real optimism around the place and that’s great. But as a football manager and football players, the focus is on the game. You’re not distracted.

“I don’t think I’ve ever been distracted whatever noise is coming off the pitch and I bring that to our players.

“The focus is on the game. Do whatever you have to do.

“They were very clear on their roles and responsibilities, with and without the ball tonight. Set pieces very clear. So there are no excuses.

“I just didn’t think we turned up for large parts of the game.”

The former Northern Ireland star did concede that it was good to finally have clarity on the club’s future, but after a shot-shy performance in south Belfast, he reiterated his opinion that reinforcements are urgently needed to help his squad out.

He added: “The board have worked extremely hard. It’s a members’ decision, TIG have made great noises around the football club and what they want to do with the football club.

“That’s fantastic. But I’m here trying to win football matches and whilst it’s great news for everybody, it’s not great news for me tonight in terms of how I dissect this game because I’m disappointed.

“If we want to be successful here we need players of quality. Last weekend we lost Rhys Campbell, Bayo Fapetu and Lewis Ridd for weeks.

“So that’s three bodies down and we’re still struggling. So that’s a board decision again. I will always look to bring good players in.

“We’re nearing the window closing. So it’s to help the players that we have here.

“The quality that we have brought in, I think, has been very good but we need more.”

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One of Pembrokeshire’s largest hotels has 100 bedrooms, a gorgeous glass-fronted restaurant worth travelling for and exceptional marina views.

With approximately 1,680 miles of coastline in Wales, we’re spoiled with plenty of seaside towns, beaches, and harbour boltholes for a minibreak. One of my favourite spots for a weekend away is an underrated harbour town in Pembrokeshire with an award-winning hotel that’s surprisingly affordable.

From a 17th-century Quaker whaling town and shipbuilding outpost to a modern marina, Milford Haven is now a chic destination with a renovated waterfront packed with indie shops, restaurants, and the swish Ty Milford Waterfront Hotel.

Formed by a ria, or drowned valley, the Milford waterway is known for being one of the deepest natural harbours in the world and is still Wales’ largest fishing port and home to the local inshore fleet.

As part of a multi-million-pound redevelopment programme, Milford Waterfront and Marina is fast gaining a reputation as an emerging spot in Wales. Today the harbour is a mixed-use space for locals and tourists and is a brilliant place for a budget break.

One of the most striking additions to Milford’s astonishing facelift is the Tŷ Milford Waterfront hotel, which opened in 2022.

It’s managed and operated by the team behind the iconic five-star Celtic Manor Resort and forms part of The Celtic Collection’s expanding portfolio and the Tŷ Hotels family, in partnership with the Port of Milford Haven.

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Tŷ Milford is one of Pembrokeshire’s largest hotels, with 100 bedrooms, a gorgeous glass-fronted restaurant worth travelling for and exceptional marina views. It’s fast become one of my favourite places to stay.

Since opening, the hotel has garnered positive reviews and was crowned Hotel of the Year at the Visit Pembrokeshire – Trade Croeso Awards in 2024.

Despite its four-star status and stylish interiors, it’s surprisingly affordable, especially for families. If you’re planning an overnight stay, you can currently take advantage of a seasonal offer at Tŷ Hotel Milford Waterfront.

Located overlooking the marina, the hotel is offering free stays for children sharing a family room with their parents between 13 July and 1 September 2026. Prices start from £74 per room, per night.

The 46,000 sq ft property features four floors of contemporary bedroom accommodation, with superb views across Milford Marina.

With a wide range of rooms available, including family rooms, the hotel suits all types of business and leisure travellers and provides the perfect base to explore the local or wider area.

All rooms include free wifi, complimentary parking, tea- and coffee-making facilities, Elemis toiletries, and a 43in TV perfect for a post-dinner movie.

The largest rooms feature a seating area, waterfront views, and balconies where guests can experience the incredible sunrises and sunsets over the marina. Family rooms are super-comfortable and stylish, accommodating up to two adults and two children.

The Dulse restaurant and bar is a real highlight and serves some of the best seafood in Pembrokeshire. This stylish restaurant is named after Pembrokeshire’s edible and versatile seaweed, which grows abundantly around the rocky coastline.

Executive head chef Simon Crockford is at the helm, and he has cooked for famous faces including US President Barack Obama at the 2014 Nato Summit and Tiger Woods at the 2010 Ryder Cup.

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Decked out in soothing shades of deep-sea blue that contrast with muted tones, the light-filled restaurant aims to provide a relaxing, memorable dining experience. It offers expansive marina views through floor-to-ceiling windows and locally sourced seafood.

Typical à la carte dishes include whole Tiger prawns, seafood chowder, mussels of the day, lamb rump, vegetable risotto and market fish in Tenby Harbwr beer batter.

Over the summer, the restaurant is hosting Tŷ-Side Fridays, a chilled, end-of-week wind-down in the sun.

Expect seasonal tunes from the resident DJ, crafted cocktails, and light bites from the Tŷ Airstream, all served on the Tŷ-Side terrace overlooking the harbour.

What’s nearby

If you can drag yourself away from the hotel, there is plenty to discover nearby.

The boat-filled marina offers plenty of bars, independent shops, and cafes to explore. History and heritage are also thoughtfully displayed through walking trails and the volunteer-run Milford Haven Museum. The museum tells the story of Milford Haven and its proud maritime heritage.

Inside, you can explore the exhibits and collections covering the Nantucket Quaker Whalers, the fishing industry, and the nautical town’s crucial role in supporting the world’s energy demands.

Wander further along the waterfront, and you’ll find boutique shopping, cafes, seafood restaurants, and even a chocolate shop.

The port also hosts a busy calendar of events, including its popular summer campaign, which features a fish festival, beer festival, and street food festival. Children’s activities and seasonal events, such as fireworks displays and Santa visits, also take place throughout the year.

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Looking for activities? At Milford Beach Activity Centre, you can experience stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking from the Hot Water Slip and explore the historic Milford Haven Waterway shorelines surrounding Milford Haven.

This local business operates out of a blue shipping container overlooking Milford Beach and offers guided tours, stand-up paddleboard rentals, and kayak hire.

Take a guided tour of the estuary with their experienced guides to better understand the area’s history, including the Vikings who settled here, the Welsh fishing industry, the town’s military connection, and past industries.

Milford Haven is also a fantastic base for exploring the Pembrokeshire coast year-round. Discover coastal hikes, sandy beaches, indie cafes, wildlife, and watersports.

Walking the Pembrokeshire Coast Path is one of the best ways to appreciate the natural beauty of Milford Haven and its surroundings.

This trail stretches 186 miles along the rugged coastline, offering impressive ocean and cliff views.

A popular route is the stretch from Milford Haven to Dale, which takes you past picturesque coves, sandy beaches, and charming villages. Keep an eye out for wildlife as the area is home to various seabirds, seals, and even dolphins.

Nearby, you’ll also find sandy beaches including Marloes Sands, Dale Beach, and Broad Haven Beach.

You can check prices and book your stay at the Tŷ Milford Waterfront hotel on Booking.com and Expedia.

Speculation had been mounting about a possible reunion gig at the Somerset festival in 2027, following his recent reunion with brother Noel Gallagher for the Live 25 Tour.

An Oasis fan account fuelled the rumours by posting: “According to The Scotsman, Oasis are among the favourites to headline Glastonbury 2027, with odds of 4/1.

“Could we see them return to the Pyramid Stage?”

Mr Gallagher, 53, responded bluntly on social media, writing: “It’s not HAPPENING so all you croc wearing s*** c**** can calm the f*** down.”

The band previously headlined the festival in 1995 and 2004, but both brothers have since voiced their criticisms of Glastonbury.

Last year, when asked on social media if Oasis could headline the Pyramid Stage again, Mr Gallagher replied: “Hope not.”

He went on to describe the crowd in less than flattering terms, saying: “It’s a load of divs dressed in Ty die (sic) clothes banging clogs and blowing up balloons all with psycho smiles and crusty eyes and red wine mouths.”

Noel Gallagher, 59, has also taken aim at the festival, describing it as “virtue-signalling” during a podcast appearance.

He said: “It’s getting a bit woke now, that place, and a bit kind of preachy and a bit virtue-signalling.

“I don’t like it in music – little f***** idiots waving flags around and making political statements, and bands taking the stage and saying, ‘Hey guys, isn’t war terrible, yeah?

“Let’s all boo war.

“F*** the Tories man,’ and all that.

“It’s like, look – play your f****** tunes and get off.”

Despite his criticisms, Mr Gallagher did acknowledge the festival’s cultural significance.

He said: “It’s probably the best f****** thing about Britain apart from the Premier League.”

A documentary about the brothers’ recent tour is set to be released next month.

Oasis: Don’t Look Back In Anger will follow the Gallaghers on their Live 25 Tour, which began in Cardiff in July last year.

The documentary will be released in cinemas on September 9 and will also be available on Disney Plus.

The streaming service described it as a look at the “triumphant reunion tour” and promised behind-the-scenes footage from rehearsals to the stage.

It will also feature the first joint interviews with Liam and Noel in more than 20 years.

The Live 25 Tour marked the pair’s first major collaboration since Oasis split in 2009 following a backstage fight at the Rock en Seine festival in France.

The band have had eight number one singles and albums each in the UK charts, with Wonderwall, Champagne Supernova, and Some Might Say among their best-known hits.

Although rumours of a future Glastonbury appearance have now been quashed, fans will get a nostalgic look back at the band’s legacy through the upcoming documentary.

Who would you like to see headline Glastonbury? Let us know in the comments.

After welcoming her daughter Adelaide Elizabeth Annina Brooksbank into the world, Princess Eugenie might have expected to be surrounded by her family.

Yet there was one notable absence – her mother, Sarah Ferguson.

Once the most exuberant of royal grandmothers, she appeared to have nothing to say publicly about the arrival of her new granddaughter.

Eugenie and her husband Jack Brooksbank welcomed Adelaide at a hospital in Lisbon on August 3, and the King was quick to congratulate his niece on Instagram.

But there was no gushing tribute from Fergie, despite the fact she has previously been unable to contain her excitement at the arrival of her grandchildren.

She has spoken of how August – affectionately known as ‘Augie’ – made her smile, while Ernest – ‘Ernie’ – made her cry because one of his names, Ronnie, was chosen in honour of her father, Major Ronald Ferguson. 

For royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams, this is another sign of how dramatically the York family has changed.

‘This clearly illustrates how the wheel of fortune has turned,’ he tells the Daily Mail.

And there was another detail that caught attention: the baby was not given a name linked to Sarah Ferguson.

Eugenie said the couple chose names of people they ‘love and admire’. Elizabeth is understood to be a tribute to the late Queen, while Adelaide has historical and Portuguese connections.

Fergie was reportedly upset that she was not included, although Mr Fitzwilliams dismissed the ‘ridiculous idea’ that Eugenie should have named her daughter after her mother as risking ‘social suicide’.

He believes this decision reflects just how much the York family has changed in recent years. 

‘Anyone who remembers the bizarre Victorian Ball the York family posed for to commemorate Princess Beatrice’s 18th birthday knows how the Yorks used to enjoy showing off,’ he tells this newspaper.

And now, he insists, appearances are ‘absolutely pivotal’.

Once regulars on the royal social circuit, Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice have become more cautious since their parents’ reputations fell apart.

Their rare appearances tend to be at private family occasions or carefully chosen social events.

The sisters were seen at Peter Phillips’s June wedding and at Poppy Delevingne’s 40th birthday celebrations, but stayed away from Royal Ascot – an event that previously would have been an obvious fixture in their calendars.

Their father Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been engulfed by the scandal surrounding his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, while their mother Sarah Ferguson has suffered her own fall from grace.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been engulfed by the scandal of his association with Jeffrey Epstein, while Sarah Ferguson has suffered her own fall from grace

Eugenie said the couple chose their baby’s name Adelaide Elizabeth Annina Brooksbank with people they ‘love and admire’ in mind, with Elizabeth understood as a tribute to the late Queen

The sisters still have their homes in London, but Mr Fitzwilliams points out that their position may not be secure.

‘Beatrice and Eugenie’s London homes are currently paid for by the King,’ he says, warning that Prince William may not be so generous when he ascends the throne.

Meanwhile, since leaving Royal Lodge in Windsor, Fergie has not appeared to have a permanent home, instead being linked to a series of temporary arrangements in Austria and Switzerland.

Perhaps unlike the York family, Jack Brooksbank has never appeared to crave the spotlight and has avoided becoming embroiled in his wife’s family dramas.

With three young children to protect, his priority is likely to be keeping their family life as normal and private as possible.

If Fergie does visit her daughter and granddaughter in Portugal, it will be a very different kind of family reunion from those of the past. 

Indeed, Mr Fitzwilliams believes that if she does make the trip, ‘we will not see or hear that she has come and, hopefully, gone!’

Pc Blades died when a marked Cleveland Police vehicle was involved in a crash on the A66 at South Bank at 3.39am on Saturday, August 22.

He was one of two officers killed in the crash, alongside Pc Tom Clough.

Five people travelling in a Volkswagen Passat also died at the scene.

In an emotional tribute, Pc Blades’ wife described him as an adored son, brother, uncle and son in law, whose loss had left a gap that could never be filled.

She said: “No words will ever feel like the right words to honour our Matt – my beloved husband, my best friend, and the most devoted father to our two young boys.

“He was an adored son and brother, a perfect son-in-law, and the most fun uncle. He was loved beyond words by all his family and friends, and his loss has left a space that can never be filled.

“He gave his life in the line of duty, protecting and serving others with courage, dedication and selflessness.

“The pain of losing him is beyond words, and our lives will never be the same. Neither will the love he gave us ever fade.

“Our children will grow up knowing what an incredible father he was and will always be, and I will carry his love, his memory and everything we shared with me always.

“He may have left this world committed to the duty he believed in, but his greatest legacy will always be the love he gave to his family.

“We would also like to express our deepest gratitude and heartfelt thanks to all of the emergency services and to our police family who have stood beside us through the most difficult time of our lives.

“The kindness, compassion, love and unwavering support we have received as a family has meant more to us than words could ever express. Every message, visit, gesture of support and every person who has stood alongside us will never be forgotten.

“Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever our superhero. Our Matt and Dad.”

Scene of multiple fatality RTC on the A66 at in South Bank, Middlesbrough. 23.8.2026 Photograph: Stuart Boulton/The Notrhern Echo (Image: Stuart Boulton)

Before joining the force, PC Blades was an English teacher at Carmel College in Darlington.

The school has posted a tribute to him on social media, describing him as “an intelligent, kind and approachable teacher.”

The statement reads: “It is with profound sadness that the Carmel College community joins people across our region in mourning the tragic loss of life this weekend.

“In a particular way, we remember PC Matthew Blades, who was a much-loved and highly valued member of staff at Carmel before leaving teaching to begin a new vocation of service as a police officer.

“Many within our community will remember Matty as an intelligent, kind and approachable teacher, a valued colleague and someone who gave generously of himself to the young people in his care. We remember with great affection the contribution he made to life at Carmel and give thanks for the difference he made during his time with us.

“Our thoughts and prayers are especially with Matthew’s wife, his two sons, his wider family, friends and colleagues, and with all those who knew and loved him. We pray too for PC Tom Clough, his loved ones, and all those affected by the wider tragedy and loss of life.

“When we return to College, Mass will be offered for the happy repose of the soul of Matthew Blades, and we will continue to hold in prayer all those who mourn and all whose lives have been changed by what has happened.”

Cleveland Police Federation has established a fundraising page to support the families of Matthew and Tom at this incredibly difficult time.

Any funds raised will be divided equally between their two families. For members of our community who may wish to contribute, the fundraising page can be found here: https://gofund.me/07bf7241c

Flowers, balloons and messages have since been left near the scene as people across Teesside pay tribute to those who died.

Tributes have also poured in for the two officers, who were described by Cleveland Police Chief Constable Victoria Fuller as “brave officers”.

She said: “These were brave officers protecting our communities and serving our residents who didn’t return home to their families at the end of their shift.”

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said he was “devastated” to hear about the crash, while Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said her thoughts were with all those affected.

Anna Turley, MP for Redcar, said: “They went to work to keep people safe and they should have come home to their families.

“Their loss will be felt deeply by their loved ones, fellow officers and right across the communities they served.”

Thousands of Muslims gathered for an annual walk celebrating the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), with people travelling from across the UK and Europe.

The event took place on Sunday, August 23, beginning at 1pm and finishing at around 3pm.

(Image: Phil Taylor)

The walk started at Makkah Mosque near Rishton Lane, before making its way past the Derby Street area and finishing at the 3D Centre Marriage Hall.

The event was followed by the main gathering at the marriage hall, where refreshments and food were available.

People travelled from places including Spain, Italy, Scotland and Cornwall to take part in the previous walk in 2023.

(Image: Phil Taylor)

The event also included remembrance of Sufi Mushtaq, a well-known local figure who died several years ago.

Bilal Ahmed, an organiser, previously said: “He passed away four or five years ago, but he was a good local figure for the younger people on the streets in Bolton.

“He was really influential.”

(Image: Phil Taylor)

The annual gathering comes as Bolton’s Muslim community continues a tradition with roots stretching back to the late 1950s and 1960s.

Early migrants from India and Pakistan came to the town to work in its textile mills, helping establish communities which remain an important part of Bolton today.

Pictures by Phil Taylor.

A fundraising campaign has been set up to help the family of Jady Cristine Pereira Rosa pay the costs associated with the repatriation and funeral

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Irish police have launched a murder probe after a Brazilian woman was found dead in a flat in Limerick. A fundraising campaign has been launched to assist the family of Jady Cristine Pereira Rosa with the costs of repatriating her remains and arranging a funeral.

The Brazilian national was discovered dead at a flat on Cecil Street in Limerick City at approximately 7.30am on August 21. Gardaí have since opened a murder investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death, reports Dublin Live.

Officers confirmed they would not be disclosing the findings of the post-mortem examination for “operational reasons.”

The fundraiser was established by Jady’s nearest and dearest to afford her a “dignified farewell in her home country.

“Today we come together for a reason no one should ever have to face” reads the fundraiser. “Our dear Jady, a Brazilian who was living in Limerick, Ireland, had her life tragically taken. In this moment of immense grief, we want to help her family give her the dignified farewell she deserves in her home country, surrounded by the people who love her.”

“Jady’s employer will cover the cost of transporting her body from Ireland to Brazil. However, there are still important expenses that must be covered so she can be transported from the airport in São Paulo to her hometown, as well as the costs of her wake and burial.”

The appeal was set up solely to cover the cost of transporting Jady’s remains from São Paulo airport to her final resting place, along with funeral, burial and any other expenses directly connected to her farewell. “Any contribution, no matter the amount, will make a difference and will be a meaningful gesture of kindness and solidarity with her family during this incredibly difficult time.”

A Garda spokesperson confirmed on Saturday afternoon that a murder investigation had been launched.

“A Family Liaison Officer has been assigned to support the family of the deceased. The scene remains preserved, and a technical examination is ongoing by the Garda Technical Bureau.

“A Senior Investigating Officer (SIO) has been appointed to lead the investigation. An incident room has been established at Henry Street Garda Station.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Henry Street Garda Station on (061) 212400.

The fundraiser can be found here.

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A woman’s suspected endometriosis turned out to be a cancer so rare it required nine of her organs to be removed during ‘the mother of all surgeries’.

Claire Gerring, 42, was referred to John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford with the suspected condition, where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows elsewhere, after an ultrasound in November 2022 and was put on the waiting list in May 2023 for an investigative laparoscopy.

But after intense pain on her right side, a positive faecal immunochemical test – which looks for traces of blood in your stool – led to a colonoscopy.

Doctors discovered her appendix was inverted and a CT scan revealed she had malignant tissue on the organ and needed investigative surgery.

A biopsy in May 2025 confirmed she had stage four Pseudomyxoma Peritonei (PMP) – a rare cancer that typically originates from a tumour in the appendix.

She was referred to Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital, one of only two hospitals that specialise in PMP.

The cancer in her appendix had ruptured, meaning there were other nodules in the rest of her body. In July 2025, Claire – mum to sons Oscar, 15, and Spencer, 14 – had a ten-hour operation to remove nine organs: her appendix, gallbladder, spleen, uterus, cervix and both ovaries and fallopian tubes.

She also had removed her greater omentum (a double layer of fatty tissue covering the lower abdominal area), belly button, peritoneum lining and part of her bowel. Her liver was also partially cut away, her diaphragm scraped and her bladder stripped.

In July 2025, Claire – mum to sons Oscar, 15, and Spencer, 14 – had a ten-hour operation to remove nine organs: her appendix, gallbladder, spleen, uterus, cervix and both ovaries and fallopian tubes

After four and a half weeks in hospital, she was discharged and has been left with bowel problems, but now has no evidence of disease. She will be monitored for the next 20 years.

Claire, a hairdresser from Wantage, Oxfordshire, says: ‘I felt really quite scared and quite alone after my diagnosis.

‘When you’ve got a rare cancer and it’s not something you’ve heard of before, there’s not a lot of people to talk to about it.

‘I was told by surgeons before my operation what they will remove. It’s a lot to process. It’s quite scary, but I’m lucky I had professionals who knew what they were doing. It’s called the mother of all surgeries because of the severity of it.’

She added: ‘Recovery is a slow process… if you have your appendix out the recovery time is six to eight weeks. I’m still grateful, it’s a small price to pay. Basically what they say is you’re never back to your old self, you just get used to the new you.’

Now a year into her recovery, Claire’s focus has turned to fundraising for charity Pseudomyxoma Survivor, throwing a masked ball last month.

On the night, she said: ‘I just feel my main purpose for doing this is raising awareness about the rare cancer and Pseudomyxoma Survivor. I feel so passionate about giving back to this charity who stepped in and helped me at the point in life when it felt uncertain and alone.’

‘They also support research and have recently given £100,000 towards a research project called ‘The Beacon Project’. They are creating a blood test to detect the cancer and recurrence way before CTs can even pick it up.’

She has raised £16,002 through Just Giving and other events.

Maddy Lomas, trustee at Pseudomyxoma Survivor, says: ‘We are incredibly touched by the effort and generosity behind this fundraising event. What makes it even more special is that it has been organised by someone who knows first-hand what it means to face a diagnosis of PMP.

After four and a half weeks in hospital, she was discharged and has been left with bowel problems, but now has no evidence of disease. She will be monitored for the next 20 years

‘Having received support from Pseudomyxoma Survivor during her own journey, Claire has now turned that experience into an opportunity to give back and support others who are walking a similar path.

‘For a small charity, the £16,002 raised is incredibly significant and will have a lasting impact.

‘For a rare disease like PMP, every person who learns about the condition helps to increase understanding and could make a life-changing difference by helping someone recognise the signs, seek support, or feel less alone following their own diagnosis.’