It’s said Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, known as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, have recently had a strained relationship with members of the royal family, such as Prince William and Princess Kate
22:52, 09 Mar 2026Updated 22:58, 09 Mar 2026
The “turning point” in Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’srelationship with the royal family was just before the couple announced they were leaving for the US, an expert has said.
It is understood “something must have happened” before the Duke and Duchess of Sussex made the bombshell declaration in January 2020. Grant Harrold, a former royal butler, said the couple had a healthy relationship with the Prince and Princess of Wales until they quit The Firm, and they became known as the “Fab Four”.
But it was reportedly in the months before their announcement when their relationship appeared to sour. Mr Harrold said: “We saw William, Kate, Harry, and Meghan do so many things together initially, but the turning point was a few months before the announcement that they were stepping away from royal duties. They were doing events in the summer prior to that, so something must have happened in between.”
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Speaking on behalf of OLBG, Mr Harrold said Prince William was “genuinely happy” his brother had met someone. Photographs taken of the four together in 2019, including a snap at Windsor Castle in Berkshire, captured just how close they were.
However, Express US reports “something must have happened” and then Harry and Meghan left the UK. In a statement released when they made this decision, the couple said: “After many months of reflection and internal discussions, we have chosen to make a transition this year in starting to carve out a progressive new role within this institution
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“We intend to step back as ‘senior’ members of the royal family and work to become financially independent, while continuing to fully support Her Majesty the Queen. It is with your encouragement, particularly over the last few years, that we feel prepared to make this adjustment.”
It is believed Harry and Meghan did not consult Queen Elizabeth or the then-Prince Charles before releasing their bombshell statement in early 2020. Since then the Duke of Sussex, 41, told The Telegraph: “I don’t think he fully appreciated the impact the statement would have in terms of them not consulting the Queen. He regrets that.”
Harry and Meghan’s bombshell statement led the Queen to issue her own comment, confirming the couple were no longer “full-time working members of the royal family.”
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In the statement, she said she would have “preferred” the Sussexes to stay, but admitted she understood the decision and supported their “wish to live a more independent life as a family while remaining a valued part of my family.”
A Police Ombudsman investigation into a former officer has revealed shocking allegations
The Police Ombudsman of Northern Ireland investigation into alleged non-recent serious sexual offences by a former police officer has brought new information come to light — with the body highlighting the “victim impact, scale and complexity” of the case.
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The former officer was arrested by Police Ombudsman investigators in December 2025 on suspicion of committing more than 10 non-recent offences, including rape, other sexual offences, and misconduct in public office. These offences are alleged to have occurred between 2000 and 2009, while he was a serving officer.
Hugh Hume, Police Ombudsman Chief Executive, said: “We have identified multiple potential victims, together with a substantial number of witnesses. We have also seized a large volume of material, including a significant amount of digital evidence, during a search operation.“We understand that this news may be distressing for anyone who has been affected or harmed or who has been harmed by a similar experience. We would like to reassure victims that they are not to blame and if they choose to contact us, we will listen, we will investigate and we will do so independently from police.“As the victim impact, scale and complexity of the investigation have become clear, we are now working to ensure that this investigation is carried out in the most timely manner possible. We are, therefore, allocating all available resources to ensure it will be victim-centred, effective and efficient.“Our resources are finite and this means that the timeliness of our other casework may be affected. However, this is the reality of balancing the demands of our complaints across the Office with the need to progress this complex and expanding investigation. If we do not prioritise now, in the long term we risk compromising the service we provide to complainants and victims, and public confidence in this office and the PSNI.”Mr Hume said he would encourage anyone who has concerns about allegations of this nature to contact the Police Ombudsman’s Office on 028 9082 8600, Email: info@policeombudsman.orgVictim Support NI provide services which are trauma-informed, confidential, safe, and free. These include Sexual Offences Legal Advisors (SOLAs) who are qualified lawyers who can offer free legal advice and support to adult victims of serious sexual offences.
The Middle Earth Tavern, at 25-26 Church Street, Whitby, is seeking a pavement licence from North Yorkshire Council.
Jill Blackburn’s proposal states that the application is “for an outdoor seating area to extend the outside area at the front”, it adds, “as agreed and noted following the recent granting of planning permission”.
The application notes that the land is owned by the premises.
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If the pavement licence is approved, the outdoor seating would be used for serving and consuming food and drink.
The website of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) describes the pub in Church Street as a watering hole “with low ceilings and bare brick walls, a decision made after the flood, bric-a-brac, and numerous references to Tolkien’s fantastical world, after which the pub is named.”
“It overlooks the river Esk and offers various beers, a sizeable lounge, pool room, and outside seating.”
The deadline for representations regarding the pavement licence application is Tuesday, March 10.
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Members of the public who wish to make representations regarding the application should give notice in writing to: North Yorkshire Council, Licensing Services, Town Hall, St Nicholas Street, Scarborough, YO11 2HG or by email to licensing.east@northyorks.gov.uk.
The council’s website notes: “It is an offence knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application punishable on summary conviction by an unlimited fine.”
The Thornliebank-based lighting specialist, which has been in business for 45 years across Scotland and Northern England, has been forced to close stores and make redundancies
Peter Hennessy and Emily Wright
00:20, 10 Mar 2026Updated 00:21, 10 Mar 2026
A well-known family furniture retailer has collapsed into administration, resulting in 11 shop closures and leaving scores of workers facing redundancy.
Pagazzi Lighting, a household name throughout Scotland and Northern England, was established nearly five decades ago and has built its reputation as a leading specialist in decorative lighting, mirrors and home furnishings.
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Yet facing escalating overheads and declining footfall on the high street, the Thornliebank-headquartered firm has been compelled to shutter 11 of its branches and make 70 employees redundant mere days following the appointment of administrators, Daily Express reports.
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Notwithstanding its 45-year trading history, the retailer’s previous accomplishments proved insufficient protection against a “sustained period of poor trading” and growing financial strain, industry specialists have warned.
Even following a significant restructure just two years previously, George Lafferty of BTG was brought in as administrator last week as Pagazzi Lighting grappled with persistent cashflow difficulties amid rising operational expenses and weakening consumer demand.
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Notable casualties include the Braehead Shopping Centre outlet in Glasgow and the Uddingston branch, located south-east of Glasgow city centre. Administrators have confirmed the 11 affected premises officially ceased trading on Wednesday (March 4), The Sun has reported.
Thomas McKay, managing partner of BTG, commented: “The retail sector has seen some very tough months of late in Scotland and this has also affected the lighting sector, mainly due to increasing competition and high trading costs.”
Reduced margins, slower consumer spending and rising operating costs are creating challenges for many high street retailers, and unfortunately, these are the main factors that saw the Pagazzi stores and concessions no longer able to trade. “”The 11 affected stores closed on Wednesday, after BTG consulted with staff about the anticipated closure.
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Sadly, there have been 70 redundancies arising from the unavoidable closure of the retail outlets that were no longer able to trade. “”We are working closely with these individuals affected to assist them with access to their entitlements in conjunction with Partnership Action for Continuing Employment (PACE) and the Redundancy Payments Service, as we provide these staff members with the support and advice they need.”.
The firm’s digital arm, Pagazzi Lighting (Web) Limited, has intervened to purchase the business along with its assets, ensuring the company will survive – albeit in a scaled-back capacity – through its web presence and remaining physical shops.
What’s in store for you today? (Picture: Metro.co.uk)
Venus comes into alignment with Pluto, bringing self-worth to center stage. Take the plunge into romance and self-expression, with courage from the cosmos.
Cancer, Leo and Virgo, transformation is around the corner. Expect a shift in image or narrative today.
Tackle this powerful placement with boldness and don’t apologise for being authentically you. Take note of those who celebrate your successes.
Ahead, you’ll find all star signs’ horoscopes for today: Tuesday March 10, 2026.
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Venus in your sign forges an alliance with Pluto in Aquarius, so your charm is amplified in the most mysterious way. You’re not only attracting attention you’re encouraging depth, desire and deep transformation. Romantic, creative or collaborative connections take on a more intense tone. Surface activity won’t satisfy and you’re not just turning heads today – you’re also changing hearts.
You’ll be quietly commanding the room even if you’re in the back row. Behind-the-scenes moves have powerful ripple effects now, especially in career or long-term goals. Charm meets strategy and subtle shifts can lead to major and dynamic changes. You may feel a pull towards a new ambition or someone may inspire you to think bigger. Trust your instincts and prepare to surprise yourself.
Conversations can open minds, hearts or doors, and sometimes all three. You may feel drawn to people or ideas that challenge your worldview in the best way. This is a stellar time to network with purpose, set hopes with intention or discuss a project with confidence. Let curiosity guide you towards deeper truths. Remember you’re not just connecting, you’re evolving, and many will notice.
You’re called to step up and explore your potential around career, confidence and connections. You may notice shifts in how others perceive your worth, and it’s time you saw it too. A big change is underway behind the scenes, around shared resources or deep bonds. It’s fine to sweeten the deal, but what do you want and are you ready to own it? Today, subtle strength can be very powerful.
Venus links with Pluto, so your love life, creative talent or personal philosophy is about to get a celestial upgrade. You’re drawing powerful people and ideas your way and they’re not here for small talk. This energy inspires meaningful connections, wild inspiration and daring moves. You’re not only seeking the spotlight, you can turn it on others, too. This is true leadership, Leo.
Everyday routines, work habits or even health choices may get a sensual makeover, so think empowered self-care and pleasure with purpose. There’s hidden beauty in the details, and you’re encouraged to look beneath the surface for lasting change. Relationships, especially behind closed doors or in professional settings, could intensify. Don’t shy away from depth, instead lean into it.
Cosmic messages for Cosmic messages for Virgo today
Libra
September 24 to October 23
Relationships may go through a life-changing twist. Whether it’s romance, a key collaboration or a new interest, you’ll prefer fireworks rather than anything superficial. A connection could intensify quickly, revealing desires or truths you didn’t expect. Your charm is at a peak now, but it’s your courage to be real that could alter everything. This is the moment to let your true feelings show.
The Venus-Pluto link means you’re blending desire and transformation. This energy stirs deep shifts in your habits, health or work dynamics and could morph into something more aligned with your evolving values. Relationships at work may intensify or reveal unspoken truths. You’re not here for surface-level anything and this transit agrees. Small changes now have big ripple effects.
With Venus cosying up to deep Pluto, romance, creativity and daring self-expression all get a boost. Conversations aren’t just clever, they can be brilliant, profound and maybe a little spicy. Someone unexpected could challenge your thinking or stir up feelings. This is a great time to share ideas, make new connections or pour passion into a project. Go ahead and dazzle and really mean it.
It’s time for a soulful renovation, both inside and out. Whether it’s a literal home makeover, a heart-to-heart with family or a shift in your sense of security, you’re being nudged to beautify your foundations. Financial matters may also get a passionate jolt, so invest in growth. Let go of what’s outdated, especially in relationships close to home. A softer space can still be a safe sanctuary.
Conversations now can charm, persuade or provoke deep change, especially if you’re brave enough to speak the truth. This is a prime time for writing, new opportunities or reconnecting with someone who appreciates your gifts. You’re not just sharing ideas, you’re shifting energy. Whether it’s love, art or influence, you are in the spotlight. Use it wisely as your message can be far-reaching.
You’re being asked to own your worth in a deep and possibly unexpected way. Hidden fears or outdated beliefs about money, love or self-esteem may surface, but so will the power to transform them. It’s time to invest in yourself, unapologetically. A private epiphany could shift how you approach abundance or intimacy. Don’t underestimate the quiet strength of inner work right now.
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The town was ‘put on the map for all the wrong reasons’
Residents in the town where Ian Huntley killed two schoolgirls have shared their thoughts after his death at the weekend. Huntley was attacked at HMP Frankland on February 26 by another inmate, which left him blind and fighting for his life.
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After his life support was turned off, Huntley died in hospital on Saturday (March 7). Huntley killed Jessica Chapman and Holly Wells, 10, in Soham on August 4, 2002.
In Soham today, residents have shared their reaction to his death – and their hopes that the town can now move on. One man, who asked not to be named, said “good riddance”.
He added: “Soham has had to deal with so much attention since that horrible thing happened to those poor girls. It’s put the town on the map for all the wrong reasons.” Now that Huntley is dead, he hopes it is the “end for the family of those girls, but also people who live here”.
Another man named Edward, who asked to use only his first name, said the tragedy has “haunted our town since 2002”. Edward added: “It’s not nice that it’s known for that. To whoever killed him, they’ve done the world a favour.
“Now he’s dead, I hope that it’s the end for Soham and for the families because they have been through enough. The girls should be remembered and that horrible man that did the unthinkable should be forgotten.”
Emily didn’t live in Soham in 2002, but understands how much the murder affected the town. She said: “I don’t know what it was like at the time but I know from people in town, it’s all it’s known for and they are sad it is. Personally, I’m happy that he’s dead.
“He has caused so much pain to the girls’ families. He’s put a bad name on Soham and now it should be left alone.”
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One man, who wished to not be named, said he didn’t have much to say about “that vile thing”. He added: “He’s had too much attention already. Now that he’s dead, I hope it’s the end. The girls’ families deserve to be left alone as they have gone through turmoil.”
Great British Bake Off winner Nadiya Hussain has spoken out about the Channel 4 series
More than a decade since she was crowned winner of The Great British Bake Off and became one of TV’s most successful new stars, Nadiya Hussain has admitted that she no longer watches the Channel 4 show.
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Despite going on to enjoy a huge TV career, the last 12 months have proved something of a torrid time for the 41-year-old mum-of-three as the BBC cancelled her shows.
In a new interview with the Radio Times, Nadiya admits “it’s sad” how it ended but “near the end” of her relationship with the Beeb, she had voiced concerns about how her programmes were being made.
And as far as Bake Off is concerned, she admits it’s not a show she watches any more. She said: “The magic has disappeared for me. Sometimes it feels like it’s competing with some of the shows on Netflix where it’s bigger and bolder and more outrageous, and I don’t think it needs any of that. It’s a beautiful show, it’s a classic.”
As for new judge Nigella Lawson replacing Prue Leith, Nadia said: “Nigella’s got a lot to live up to following Prue. It’s very easy to become quite stuffy and very proper, and I love that she’s got a little wild streak about her. I want to be like Prue when I’m older. If I get to that lovely age.”
Following her triumph on GBBO in 2015, Nadiya went on to front numerous BBC shows including Nadiya Bakes, Nadiya’s Fast Flavours and Nadiya’s Simple Spices. She has also appeared as a guest panellist on ITV’s Loose Women.
Other achievements include being named by Debrett’s as one of the 500 most influential people in the UK, included on BBC News’ 100 Women list and invited to bake a cake for the 90th birthday celebrations of Queen Elizabeth II.
After gaining a publishing deal she was also shortlisted for Children’s Book of the Year prize at the British Book Awards for Bake Me A Story.
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However, in a social media post last year, the presenter disclosed that the BBC had axed her series, calling it a “turning point” in her professional journey.
At the time, a BBC spokesperson said: “After several wonderful series we have made the difficult decision not to commission another cookery show with Nadiya Hussain at the moment. Nadiya remains a much-valued part of the BBC family, and we look forward to working together on future projects.”
In conversation with the Sun’s Fabulous magazine, she reflected: “The last year has been physically and mentally one of the hardest so my next biggest achievement would be choosing myself and deciding what’s right for me.”
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This follows Nadiya describing her three children, Musa, 19, Dawud, 18, and Maryam, 15, as her “biggest achievement”. Nadiya shares her children with husband Abdal Hussain, whom she wed in Bangladesh at the age of 20.
Following the axing of her programme, she took the decision to switch careers and move into education. She’s now employed in schools as a teaching assistant, with aspirations of potentially qualifying as a teacher down the line.
She revealed that other broadcasters, including ITV and Channel 4, approached her about another series, but insists it’s “not something that I want to do”.
Speaking to woman&home magazine, she explained: “I’m currently working as a teaching assistant at a lovely little primary school. The plan is to gain some training and maybe in the future become a teacher.”
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Police have shut the A689 in Sedgefield this evening (March 9) between the Sands Hall roundabout and the A177 La Raaj roundabout.
The nearby Spring Lane – which goes over the A689 – has also been closed from Sedgefield to Foxton, Durham Police confirmed.
The nature of the incidents remain unknown at this stage.
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“We would thank motorists to avoid the route – diversion will be through Sedgefield to come out Stockton Road whilst emergency services work”, a spokesperson said.
Snow is soon expected to fall across parts of the UK — reportedly around 60% of the country — as a low pressure moves in from the west and temperatures drop rapidly
23:47, 09 Mar 2026Updated 23:50, 09 Mar 2026
The Met Office has detailed snow is expected to fall in locations as low as 200 metres in the coming days.
In a forecast posted on YouTube, the weather agency has said snow is anticipated across large swathes of the nation, including the Northwest of England, as early as Friday. It is a stark contrast to the balmy weather last week, during which the mercury hit 19C in Greater London.
Annie Shuttleworth, meteorologist with the Met Office, said in the clip: “Quite a notable change in the air mass on Thursday night into Friday will bring a very different feel to the weather by the end of the week. It will be considerably colder to start the day (Friday). We are expecting a patchy frost particularly in sheltered areas. Sheltered because the winds will be quite strong on Friday as well.
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“Now, the rain will continue to move in from the north and west. So, it’s northwestern areas that will see frequent showers, some of these falling as snow to around 200 meters. That’s relatively low for the time of year, but also a mix of hail in there as well. That brings a risk of ice too through Friday morning as well as into Saturday morning.”
Weather maps issued by the Met Office show a messy outlook on Friday with white hues across the country, including across the Northwest of England, north Wales and parts of Scotland. A blue hue covers other parts, such as the Southwest of England.
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The mercury exceed 15C in Goudhurst, Kent, on Sunday, but temperatures are anticipated to fall in the coming days. It will feel as cold as -7C on Friday — largely due to a fierce westerly wind — and remain this way throughout the weekend, notably on Sunday.
Ms Shuttleworth added: “Wherever you are, it’s going to be feeling chilly quite widely. We’ll just be in those single figures by day… Now, the general theme remains unsettled into the weekend.”
It will be rainy on the weekend after the snow, especially across the Northwest of England. This will follow heavy rain on Thursday, particularly across the Northeast of England in the morning and most of Wales in the afternoon.
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There are 21 flood warnings in place already ahead of the unsettled period. All of these are for waterways across the Southwest of England, such as Groundwater flooding for the Hooke in West Dorset and Groundwater flooding for the Till, which is in Wiltshire.
Netflix viewers are counting down for the second season of One Piece (Picture: Netflix)
One Piece fans have just a few more hours to wait until the highly anticipated second season finally drops on Netflix.
Two years ago, Matt Owens and Steven Maeda’s adaptation of the 1997 manga series by Eiichiro Oda was released on the streaming platform.
For the uninitiated, the series follows the adventures of the Straw Hat Pirates as they pursue their individual goals together and seek the ‘One Piece’, a legendary treasure found and hidden by the former King of the Pirates, Gold Roger.
As Empire detailed in its review: ‘It’s the fun, quirky adaptation that One Piece fans and newbies alike deserve.’
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Meanwhile Mashable declared: ‘Whether you’re a diehard One Piece fan or a novice like myself, you’ll find something to love here. Heck, you may even start to have more faith in live-action anime and manga adaptations.’
The show is based on the manga series of the same name (Picture: Netflix)
‘Given everything stacked against it, it’s pretty impressive how much Netflix’s version fits into such a short season, and it’ll be a relief for novices and die-hard fans alike that the end result is an enjoyable summer binge-watch,’ The Wrap added.
Fans also praised the series, which they admitted they’d held extremely high expectations for.
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‘I have to admit I was sceptical at first, not believing that an anime adaptation could be brought to life successfully. It’s an emotional rollercoaster. Extremely well made!’ user GP posted on Rotten Tomatoes.
Following its release, the first season of One Piece became the most-watched Netflix show during the second half of 2023.
Just two weeks after it hit screens, the series was also renewed for a second season, which will be released overnight. The new episodes are set to drop on Netflix for UK viewers at midnight.
One fan called the first season ‘an emotional rollercoaster’ (Picture: Casey Crafford/ Netflix)
According to Tudum, the Straw Hats will face their ‘fiercer adversaries and the most perilous quests yet’.
As teased in the official synopsis: ‘Luffy and the Straw Hats set sail for the extraordinary Grand Line – a legendary stretch of sea where danger and wonder await at every turn. As they journey through this unpredictable realm in search of the world’s greatest treasure, they’ll encounter bizarre islands and a host of formidable new enemies.’
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The first season starred Iñaki Godoy, Emily Rudd, Mackenyu, Jacob Romero Gibson, and Taz Skylar as the Straw Hat Pirates.
This time around there is a string of new characters, including Mikaela Hoover as Tony Tony Chopper, Rigo Sanchez as Dragon, Yonda Thomas as Igaram, Callum Kerr as Smoker, Charithra Chandran as Miss Wednesday, and Joe Manganiello as Mr. 0.
When the trailer for season 2 was released a few weeks ago, many fans said they ‘couldn’t wait’ to tune in. ‘When a trailer makes you smile all the way through. you know that it has delivered something very special, we cannot wait,’ @DeanWindow-yo4vc commented on YouTube.
It’s already been renewed for a third season (Picture: Netflix)
‘I cannot believe how much they invested into the CGI here. They are not scared to get fantastical. I love it,’ @nandatou shared.
‘To the Netflix Execs: I’m willing to pay an absurd amount of money for this series. Keep it on, keep it good,’ @cameronedy3364 added.
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The One Piece manga was introduced in 1997 and currently has over 600 million copies in circulation worldwide, making it the best-selling manga series ever and the best-selling comic series in volume format.
The Netflix series has also already been renewed for a third season.
One Piece is streaming on Netflix.
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Wild garlic, oyster mushrooms and sea beet were once regularly gathered and eaten as part of meals across the UK. Today, some people have concerns about eating food growing in the woods or hedgerows, but are keen to discuss why – as our research shows.
Our small study looked at current public attitudes to eating wild foods in the English county of Dorset.
In previous centuries, knowledge about what to pick and eat and even how to cook was passed down through generations.
In 16th-century Britain, rural households ate pottage (a kind of soup made from oats) and foraged for other ingredients including sorrel and leeks. Coastal communities gathered samphire and sea beet, while hazelnuts were gathered from forests and hedgerows. Wild game, such as rabbit and deer, and freshwater eels were considered ordinary foods for those who could find them.
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My team’s research into public attitudes to “wild food” was based in Dorset, a strongly agricultural county. Working with an experienced forager, we selected ten foods growing wild in the county and available around the UK. We then asked a mix of farmers and people in the food industry including chefs and experienced foragers about whether they would feel comfortable eating these items.
When shown photographs of commonly available edible species including nettles, mushrooms (wood ear and oyster), blackberries, wild garlic, elder, cleavers (a native wildflower), hawthorn, hazelnut, and sea beet, many participants expressed surprise about how little they knew about the foods growing in their back gardens and nearby woods.
One farmer in the group said: “I grew up in the countryside, I was always curious about plants and what was growing outside. But I’m always surprised about how little I know and I’m someone who loves plants.” The people we spoke with were not confident about how to identify food sources on their doorsteps and add them into their cooking.
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Two people out of the group of 11 correctly identified the two types of mushrooms, wood ear and oyster, that are common in Dorset and widely foraged globally. Several participants admitted they were a bit afraid of eating mushrooms. One farmer said that wild mushrooming “terrifies me a little bit”.
A foraging expert said: “A lot of people are scared because they’re told when they’re a kid, don’t touch the mushrooms, they might be poisonous.”
Urban foraging is a new trend in Germany.
One grower said that consumers have become used to buying all their food from shops, but they are less comfortable with buying, or finding, foraged food. Participants said they would be comfortable buying oyster mushrooms in a supermarket, but they would feel less secure buying them at a market, for instance.
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But we found some participants were enthusiastic about trying out new wild ingredients. One said: “If you can eat something that you’ve grown, picked or foraged, it kind of has a special feeling about it.”
Another said: “I’m going to have them. It’s free! I mean, why wouldn’t you?”
Participants’ perspectives shifted after discussing foraging and consumption. One participant commented: “This shows the loss of knowledge and understanding of how to find and eat wild foods, even in rural communities.”
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Wild foods, such as the ones in our study, were once part of a staple diet but are not widely available in supermarkets, although a few do crop up at farmers’ markets. Examples of these include wild garlic, wood ear mushrooms, elderflower, nettle, cleavers, hawthorn, sea beet, chickweed and sea purslane.
Rebuilding knowledge about local wild foods could help reconnect people with their food environment.
