The weight range is good, spanning from a light 2.3 kilograms to a heavier 22.7 kilograms per dumbbell in increments of 1.13 kilograms. It’s an odd increment amount but that’s because these adjustable dumbbells work in pounds rather than kilograms, so the 1.13 kilogram increment is 2.5 pounds.

I will admit that I did struggle to work out what weight I was dealing with when using these, as every label displayed the weight in pounds rather than kilograms. The colour band indicators on the metal rails correspond to the weight chart on the handle, but as this was all in pounds, I had to keep doing mental arithmetic in my head to work out what that meant in kilograms. Once you’ve figured this out it’s a much smoother process.

The padded rubber handle was comfortable to grip and didn’t feel rough on my hands, and despite the odd look of these, they still worked well overall.

Key specifications

• Weight range: 2.3kg to 22.7kg
• Increment size: 1.13 kg (2.5lbs)
• Type of mechanism: Pin

How do adjustable dumbbells work?

Adjustable dumbbells allow you to change weight settings using a built-in mechanism such as a dial or pin. Instead of switching between multiple dumbbells, you simply adjust the load on a single unit, which typically ranges from two kilograms up to 40 kilograms, or even more.

The weight plates remain on a central handle and unused plates stay in the base. This makes them a great space-saving piece of home gym equipment as they come without the clutter of traditional weight racks.

What are the disadvantages of adjustable dumbbells?

There are some trade-offs to adjustable dumbbells. Many models can be bulkier than fixed dumbbells, which can affect grip and movement.

It can also be difficult to quickly change the weight on adjustable dumbbells and they can be slower to adjust mid-workout. If you enjoy doing supersets or circuits, this might hold you back slightly.

Some mechanisms can also wear out or stop working if used repeatedly. This is unlike conventional dumbbells, which are straightforward lumps of iron.

How heavy should adjustable dumbbells be?

This completely depends on your fitness level as well as your goals. If you’re a beginner or you’re focusing on lighter resistance training, a set of adjustable dumbbells with a weight range of two to 25 kilograms (per dumbbell) will likely be enough.

On the other hand, if you’re an experienced lifter, a set of adjustable dumbbells that reach 40 kilograms or more will be better suited. Bigger, compound movements that require more muscle activation, such as squats and lunges, will need heavier weight than single-muscle isolation exercises, such as bicep curls.

What is the best mechanism for adjustable dumbbells?

This depends on personal preference as well as what type of training you do and how often you need to change the weight. A slide or pin-based mechanism can be a little slow or clunky, whereas a dial-based mechanism tends to allow you to work at speed.

What matters most is that the set of adjustable dumbbells you choose comes with a reliable locking mechanism. This helps avoid any potential injuries.

Are adjustable dumbbells worth the price in comparison to a full set of fixed dumbbells?

Yes, for most people, adjustable dumbbells offer much better value than a full set of fixed dumbbells. A good quality pair of adjustable dumbbells are a space-saving piece of home gym equipment as they don’t require much room to store but they still offer a decent weight range.

A full set of fixed dumbbells usually requires a rack and plenty of floor space, whereas adjustable dumbbells do not. Plus, if you ever need to move or transport a full set of fixed dumbbells, this can be a chore in itself, whereas moving a set of adjustable dumbbells, although still a challenge, is much less of a hassle.

Still, back in the day, some doctors would prescribe the Black Stuff: “I’ve been a solid Guinness girl since my early 20s,” Cheryl Ward, 42, from South London, tells me. “I used to faint a lot, and the doctor told me half a Guinness now and then wouldn’t hurt. I was low in iron, so he suggested supplements or a little Guinness — I picked the alcohol option. I like it because it’s not gassy like beer, has health benefits, and if you find a good pint, the creamy bitterness is absolutely delightful.” Her favourite place to enjoy a pint in London? “The basement bar at Bradley’s on Hanway Street.”

Marks & Spencer customer, Leah Watki, put every version of the supermarket’s Percy Pig sweets to the taste test. And there were four that emerged as clear winners

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A woman has delivered her verdict after tasting every flavour of Marks & Spencer’s Percy Pig sweets.

The famous confectionary first hit the supermarket’s shelves in 1992, but was withdrawn five years later. Thankfully though, the sweets reemerged in 2008 and have grown increasingly popular ever since.

As such, rivals have introduced imitations in recent years, including Lidl with Henry Hippo, Aldi’s Leo the Lion and even Poundland’s own Dinky Dogs. But M&S are the originals and there are so many different flavours to choose from.

So which variety is the best? Leah Watki was determined to find out. She conducted a taste test for her YouTube subscribers and said: “Let’s try every single flavour of Percy Pigs”. Here’s how she got on…

First, Leah tore open a large packet of the original flavour version of the treats. She gushed: “Yum. As I always say, you can never go wrong with the classic. It’s a 10 out of 10.”

Next on her taste test was the Squidgy Snouts variety, which again she awarded top marks owing to their similarity to the original.

Leah moved on to multicoloured Party Time Percy Pig gummies, which didn’t blow her away. She said: “They’re nice, but they’re not as good, so seven out of 10.”

As for the Reversey Percy, she admitted that whilst they taste “good” she wouldn’t buy them again. She added: “Six out of 10.”

Leah then sampled the assorted flavour Fruity Chews. She concluded: “I like some of the flavours, but not all of them that are in here. And they’re very chewy, so six out of 10.”

Piglets came next, which clearly went down a treat. “Why is everything mini just automatically better?” Leah pondered as she munched on three sweets. “10 out of 10.”

Next came Original Veggie Percy, appearing tough in texture. Leah attempted to bite one in half and added: “Obviously if you are a vegetarian then they’re great, but five out of 10”.

The experiment continued as Leah ripped open a packet of Percy Pig and Pals. She said: “I’m not a fan of cola flavoured sweets. The cola flavour just takes over the whole packet. Four out of 10.”

Phizzy Pigtails followed, which Leah immediately described as “very sour”. She added: “If you like sour, you will love them. But I am more of a sweet girl. Eight out of 10.”

Last on the taste test was You Give Me Butterflies. The foodie gushed: “They are so good. And they are so cute. 10 out of 10.”

The observant among you will have noticed that four of the sweet treats got Leah’s top marks. These were the original Percy Pigs, Piglets, Squidgy Snouts and You Give Me Butterflies.

On the other hand, she wasn’t too keen on Percy Pigs and Pals or the vegetarian version of the popular confectionary. So do you agree? Don’t forget to leave us your thoughts in the comments section below.

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A masked fan unplugged a VAR monitor during ‌a German second division football match.

Bundesliga 2 club Preussen Munster said in a statement that the video assistant referee system was supposed to be used during the first half of their match against Hertha Berlin on Sunday after a foul.

However, “the referee was unable to review the incident using the VAR monitor in the stadium because a masked spectator from the active fan section illegally entered the pitch and unplugged the technical equipment”.

“The penalty decision was ultimately made by video referee Katrin Rafalski in the VAR room in Cologne”, the club said, adding it “regrets the incident and will do everything in its power to identify and bring the perpetrator(s) to justice”.

Preussen Munster said “immediate measures have been taken to prevent similar incidents in the future”, and that initial findings “indicate that this was a planned action – a banner to that effect was displayed in the home section shortly after the technical malfunction”.

Pictures from the match showed home fans with a banner that read “pull the plug on VAR”.

Hertha Berlin scored from the penalty before going on to win 1-2 with a stoppage-time goal.

VAR was introduced in the Premier League in 2019 and was initially welcomed by players and fans over concerns about refereeing in the league.

Since then, VAR has become a major source of controversy, with the league’s chief football officer admitting in 2024 that decisions are too slow and spoil the enjoyment for supporters.

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Fire shuts Scotland’s busiest train station indefinitely
Oil price sees biggest single-day spike in six years

According to the Premier League’s website, VAR is only used for “clear and obvious errors” or “serious missed incidents” – meaning incidents concerning goals, penalty decisions, direct red card incidents and mistaken identity.

During the winter months, many of us have to exercise in the dark when we might not be able to see obstacles, and drivers and cyclists might not see us. That’s why it’s important to wear the best head torch you can afford. But, from Petzl to Ledlenser and battery-powered to rechargeable, the choices can seem baffling.

I’ve been an ardent runner for over 20 years, taking part in multiple marathons and parkruns. I’ve also explored the risks of running in my books Running: Cheaper Than Therapy and The Runner’s Code. Having face-planted many a time, I know the dangers of a dash in the dark.

So these past few months, I’ve put the most popular head torches to the test. You can read my full reviews below, along with my answers to frequently asked questions, but if you’re in a rush, here’s a quick look at my top five:

The best head torches: At a glance

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How to choose the best head torch

As with the best bike lights, the key things to look out for are the brightness (measured in lumens – 300 should be good enough for all but the most adventurous of activities); beam distance (ideally adjustable); a long battery life (essential); weight (the lighter the better); and ease of use (not too fiddly, especially when it is cold).

Extra features such as red light night vision (less likely to scare off wildlife, or blind other members of your group), a dimmer function, a smart memory, a secure fit and a tilt function for flexible beam focus are also worth considering.

Then there’s the weather-proofing. Head torches are given ratings depending on their ability to withstand water. An IPX4 rating means splashproof (should be fine for walking or running); IPX6 means it can take a blast of water (should be fine for paddle boarding); and IPX8 means it can be submerged (should be fine for paddle boarding that goes wrong).

Why you can trust Telegraph Recommended

Our thorough, real-world tests will always help you find the best product. No manufacturer ever sees Telegraph Recommended reviews before publication and we don’t accept payment in exchange for favourable reviews, nor do we allow brands to pay for placement in our articles.

From tents to walking boots, all reviews are based on independent expert opinion and our hands-on testing. Visit our Who We Are page to learn more.

How we test head torches

Two males have been arrested

A PSNI vehicle has “extensive damage” and two officers have been injured after a collision over the weekend.

Police arrested two men following a report of a creeper-style burglary in Newtownabbey on Sunday, March 8 which led to a pursuit. A police spokesperson said it was reported that shortly after 9pm last night, entry was gained to a property in the Catherine Court area “and a male took the keys of a white VW Tiguan, which he made off from the scene in”.

“A second man got into the car with him at the entrance to Catherine Court. The vehicle then made its way onto the Shore Road and entered the M2, heading city-bound,” the spokesperson added.

READ MORE: Motorcyclist dies following early morning Dunmurry crashREAD MORE: ‘Deep shock’ as murder probe launched after discovery of woman’s body in Co Fermanagh

“It was reported that the vehicle was later in the Springfield Road area. Police then observed it travelling at speed on the Monagh Bypass, where it failed to stop for officers after being signalled to do so. It then continued along the Falls Road, Glen Crescent, Glen Road and Norglen Gardens, and as it entered Monagh Link, it collided with a police vehicle.“The collision resulted in extensive damage being caused to the police vehicle and two police officers sustained injuries which are not believed to be serious at this time. One man aged in his 20s was subsequently arrested on suspicion of a number of driving offences, as well as burglary, failing to stop, remain and report an accident, and driving whilst unfit through drink or drugs.

“A second man also aged in his 20s was arrested on suspicion of burglary, allowing himself to be carried in a stolen vehicle, resisting arrest, disorderly behaviour, and possession of a Class C controlled drug. They remain in custody this morning, assisting with police enquiries.

“Enquiries are ongoing, and anyone with any information which might assist is asked to contact 101, and quote reference number 1671 of 08/03/26. Alternatively, you can submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/.”

For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter here.

Julie’s Flowers, based in Gosforth, Newcastle, and Cleadon Village, Sunderland, has spotted a growing trend of customers placing Mothers’ Day orders on behalf of family pets.

Julie Horsted, founder of the business, said: “Every year, we see more cards signed with paw prints or little notes like ‘Love from Max’ or ‘Woofs and cuddles from Bella.’

“It started as a bit of fun, but it’s definitely becoming a thing.”

With the UK experiencing record levels of pet ownership, Ms Horsted says more people are embracing the idea of ‘pet mums’.

Ms Horsted said: “Partners or families will often order flowers on behalf of the dog or cat.

“It’s such a thoughtful and light-hearted gesture, and people absolutely love it.”

The trend began around five or six years ago, starting with the occasional cheeky note from a partner.

(Image: Robin Gladstone)

Ms Horsted said: “At first, it was the odd playful message from a partner.

“But now, it’s whole families leaning into it – or younger couples who don’t have children yet but still celebrate Mother’s Day in their own way.”

Messages often include phrases like ‘Thanks for the walks, belly rubs and treats, Mum!’ or ‘You’re pawsome!’

Ms Horsted believes the trend reflects a broader shift in how people define family.

She said: “There’s been a real cultural shift.

“Pets are very much part of the family now.

“They give comfort and companionship, so recognising that bond on Mother’s Day feels natural for a lot of people.”

The messages are often a source of joy for the florist team.

Ms Horsted said: “We look forward to them every year now.

“They remind us that behind every bouquet is a story – sometimes funny, sometimes moving, but always full of heart.”

A synagogue in Belgium has been damaged in an explosion in what authorities have said was an “antisemitic” attack.

The explosion in the eastern city of Liege happened at around 4am local time, Belgian broadcaster VRT reported.

The blast blew out the windows of the synagogue and of a building on the opposite side of the road.

Pictures circulating online showed damage to the synagogue’s wooden front door. No injuries were reported.

The incident was an “extremely violent act of antisemitism”, Liege’s mayor Willy Demeyer told RTBF.

He added it was “unacceptable for conflicts to be imported from outside into our city”, referring to US-Israeli strikes on Iran.

Police have not given a cause for the explosion, but Mr Demeyer said the blast “involved a device, so it was all intentional and targeted”, without giving further details.

Belgium‘s interior minister Bernard Quintin said it was “a despicable antisemitic act that directly ‌targeted the Jewish community”.

He added “security measures around similar sites will continue to be strengthened”.

Read more from Sky News:
Four arrested on suspicion of spying on Jewish community
More antisemitic incidents after Manchester synagogue attack

Yves Oschinsky, president of the Committee of Jewish Organisations of Belgium, told RTBF the incident was “extremely worrying, serious and concerning”.

Police have cordoned off the street while specialist officers from the counter-terrorism unit investigate the explosion.

The event took place at the COVID-19 Memorial Garden at West Lothian Council Civic Centre, where those in attendance paused to remember the lives lost during the pandemic.

Local residents, civic leaders and community representatives at a service in Livingston on Friday to mark the UK’s annual COVID-19 Day of Reflection.

The event took place at the COVID-19 Memorial Garden at West Lothian Council Civic Centre, where those in attendance paused to remember the lives lost during the pandemic and reflect on the impact it had on families and communities across West Lothian and the wider UK.

The national COVID-19 Day of Reflection was held on Sunday, March 8. The day provided an opportunity for communities across the country to come together to remember those who died during the pandemic, reflect on the sacrifices made, and pay tribute to the health and social care staff, frontline workers, volunteers and researchers who supported the country through an unprecedented period.

READ MORE: West Lothian thieves ‘filling trolleys and walking out’ as incidents on the rise

Speaking after the service, Livingston MP Gregor Poynton said: “The COVID-19 pandemic changed lives across our West Lothian, Scotland, the UK and across the world.

“Many families in West Lothian lost loved ones, and many others made enormous sacrifices during an incredibly difficult time.

“It was therefore very important to join local residents and community leaders at the memorial garden in Livingston to remember those who were lost and to reflect on the impact the pandemic had on so many people.

“Days like this also give us an opportunity to recognise the extraordinary work of our NHS staff, care workers, key workers and volunteers who stepped forward to support others when our communities needed them most. Their dedication and compassion will never be forgotten.

READ MORE: West Lothian will not grant general extension to licensing hours during World Cup

“As we mark the Day of Reflection again this year, it is right that we pause to remember those who lost their lives and ensure their memory continues to be honoured in our communities.”

The Livingston service was held ahead of the national Day of Reflection on Sunday, March 8, when people across the UK will be invited to take a moment to remember those lost to COVID-19 and reflect on the pandemic’s lasting impact.

READ MORE: West Lothian woman ‘exposes herself’ to passers-by as police make arrest

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“Words begin to fail everyone at such a senseless loss of life”

The young woman who died in Co Fermanagh on Saturday has been named locally as Ellie Flanagan. Ms Flanagan, who was aged in her 20s, was found at an address in the Corban Avenue area of Enniskillen on Saturday evening, March 7.

A 45-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and other related offences. The man is understood to be known to the victim. Police have made an appeal for information about the incident, after a car crash led them to the scene.

Detective Chief Inspector Gary Robinson, from the Major Investigation Team, said the investigation started following the collision near Tempo in Co Fermanagh.

READ MORE: ‘Deep shock’ as murder probe launched after discovery of woman’s body in Co FermanaghREAD MORE: Murder investigation launched following woman’s death in Enniskillen

“Police received a report that a man driving a grey Nissan Juke was involved in a collision on the Carn Road, near Tempo, at around 9.15pm on Saturday. Upon arrival, officers located the car but the driver had left the scene,” he said.

“Enquiries determined that the car was registered to an address in the Corban Avenue area of Enniskillen. When officers arrived at the house they discovered the body of a woman, aged in her 20s.

“A short time later, a man aged 45, was arrested near the scene on the Carn Road on suspicion of murder and other related offences. He remains in police custody at this time as enquiries continue.”

Mr Robinson continued: “Our detectives are working to establish the full circumstances surrounding the woman’s death, and I am appealing to anyone with information that could assist with our investigation to come forward.

“We’re especially keen to hear from anyone who was travelling on the Cornagrade Road into Corban Avenue between 6.30pm and 10.45pm on Saturday evening and noticed anything out of the ordinary, or suspicious, to make contact with us.”

Fermanagh and Omagh District Commander Superintendent Pete Cunningham said they want to reassure the community that detectives are working at pace on the investigation.

“First and foremost my thoughts are with the victim’s family and friends as they struggle to come to terms with what has happened,” he said.

“I want to reassure the local community that detectives are working at pace, and we would also urge members of the public not to speculate.

“As a victim-focused organisation, violence against women and girls is a priority for policing, and I understand that incidents like this will cause significant concern. We are doing everything we can to ensure women and girls feel safe in our communities.

“I would encourage anyone who may have information about what happened on Saturday evening, regardless of how small it may seem, to contact us on 101 quoting reference number 1564 07/03/26.

“There will be an increased police presence in the area today, and over the coming days, our officers are here to help with any concerns you may have. Please reach out and speak with them if needed.”

Deborah Erskine, DUP MLA for Fermanagh and South Tyrone, said the death of Ms Flanagan is “heartbreaking.” She added: “Words begin to fail everyone at such a senseless loss of life.

“At times like this our community stands together in grief. The community undoubtedly feels an immense sense of shock and upset, however I cannot begin to imagine the pain that Ellie’s family and friends are now feeling. We remember them in our prayers and wrap our arms around them at this extremely difficult time.

“This would have been an incredibly shocking and devastating scene to have responded to. I want to place on record thanks to the PSNI and emergency services who attended the scene. Their quick action over the weekend is to be commended. My thoughts in particular are with those officers who were first responders.

“The news of this incident broke on International Women’s Day. It serves as a reminder that we must double down on our efforts to eradicate violence against women and girls. We must all work together to stop it.

“I plead with the public to work with the PSNI in their investigations over the course of the time ahead. Please do not speculate or spread misinformation. We will all remember Ellie, her family and friends in the days that lie ahead.”

Sinn Fein Fermanagh and South Tyrone MP Pat Cullen said: “The whole community is in deep shock at the news of a woman’s suspected murder in Enniskillen. My deepest sympathy and prayers are with her family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.

“On a day when we are marking International Women’s Day, it is even more heartbreaking to be confronted with such an unthinkable act of violence.”

Alliance Enniskillen Councillor Eddie Roofe expressed his shock and condolences after the sad news.

“My thoughts are with this poor woman and her loved ones,” said Councillor Roofe.

“This incident has been the talk of the local area today. Everyone is in shock, particularly given the circumstances surrounding it. But I know the local community will come together to support each other in this distressing time.

“There is a sad irony to this, given today is International Women’s Day. Violence against women and girls is a sickening scourge on our society that must be eradicated.

“I urge anyone with information on this incident to contact police with it immediately.”

UUP councillor Roy Crawford added: “My heartfelt condolences go to her family and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time.

“This news has shocked and saddened the entire community. Enniskillen is a close knit town, and many people will be keeping the family in their thoughts and prayers in the days ahead.

“I would also like to thank the officers of the Police Service of Northern Ireland for the work they are carrying out in relation to this tragedy. Their professionalism and dedication during such difficult circumstances are greatly appreciated.

“My thoughts remain with the family as they come to terms with this heartbreaking loss.”

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