A new study from Riut, a laptop backpack brand, reveals that those who optimise their time for productivity are happier and more fulfilled than those who prioritise free time.
Survey Highlights:
55% of respondents who focused on productivity reported being happy, compared to 37% of those who lived without structured routines.
Meaning and excitement were more common in productive lives (43% and 26%) compared to less structured ones (24% and 18%).
Younger adults, particularly those aged 18 to 34, showed the strongest preference for productivity-focused living.
Widowed individuals (39%) and single people (26%) led in productive habits, while divorced respondents were least likely to feel in control (19%).
The study shows that a little effort put upfront into plotting a routine for yourself that favours productivity will help your overall wellbeing, and actually leave you open to feeling more passionate and alive as opposed to feeling stifled by routine.
The study also looked into the productivity of commuters in the UK, as the daily commute, particularly if you’re on public transport, is still being written off by some as productivity dead time. But for many it can be used to our advantage. Our survey found that commuters from Sheffield, Cardiff and Brighton and Belfast feel the most productive in their commutes, with around a third saying they optimise this time.
Optimising your life for productivity is clearly working for many, but if you are struggling with where to start, Riut has some tips on what you can look at optimising in order to get more productive and happier as a result.
Sleep – Make sure you get enough. Try going to bed a little earlier so you give yourself the chance to get a full 8 hours.
Exercise – Create a regular exercise routine (with activities you enjoy) that you can maintain longer term. You don’t need to run 10 miles a day, but you might manage 2 jogs a week.
Go outside – Get fresh air every day. If you work from home, take a walk round the block or in a local park. If you’re commuting, try taking a longer walk on the way home.
Know your body – Listen to how you’re feeling. Understand how your energy levels vary throughout the day and see if you can build a routine to match it.
Schedule your time – Use tools like a calendar to block out time for different tasks so you know you can fit in all your activities.
Allow for me time – If you’ve mastered living productively, give yourself a break: don’t let productivity take over your life. Balance time for you and time getting stuff done. Work out a good form of me time, and make sure you take it.
Sarah Giblin, advocate for thriving in the city and Founder at Riut had this to say:
“It sounds so simple but getting a few important things done each day can positively affect how we feel. Without purpose, we can feel lost. But as we know, real life is also full of things outside our control. Perhaps that’s the secret to thriving in the modern age: plan and do what you can, and learn to accept the rest.”
Lyphe Dispensary has expanded its Noidecs V range, offering high-quality medical cannabis products that are both affordable and tailored to patient preferences.
Following the June 2024 launch of Noidecs Vital Platinum OG, the new collection adds four products: VOne, VTwo, VThree, and VFour. These options simplify the patient experience by providing a tiered THC approach.
VOne caters to beginners or those seeking mild relief, while VFour offers higher THC levels for experienced users. The range enables patients to select products best suited to their therapeutic requirements, maintaining affordability throughout.
“Patients are advocating for lower cost, yet sustainable options, and we want them to know that Lyphe is not only listening but taking action,” said Hayley Thompson, Managing Director at Lyphe Clinic. “The Noidecs VOne-VFour line aims to bridge the gap between quality and cost, offering patients a reliable and accessible option for managing their health conditions.”
This expanded range reflects Lyphe’s mission to provide cost-effective, high-quality medical cannabis, made possible by economies of scale and streamlined supply chains.
Changes in MHRA’s no objection letter guidelines mean the “Vital” branding will evolve, but its core principles remain unchanged.
Noidecs VThree launches in Winter 2024, with the full line expected in early 2025. Further updates will be provided in due course.
Kenja Consulting, a boutique investment consultancy, has announced the launch of an ambitious new event series aimed at enhancing fintech cooperation between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the United Kingdom (UK). The initiative seeks to strengthen ties between these two major financial centres by fostering investment opportunities and collaboration.
The series, titled Fintech Futures: UAE-UK Connection, will kick off in Dubai in May 2025 and alternate between the UAE and the UK through 2025 and 2026. The programme is designed to facilitate networking, showcase startups, and host strategic discussions to connect investors with promising fintech ventures.
“The UAE and UK represent two of the world’s most dynamic fintech ecosystems, each with unique strengths and complementary opportunities,” stated Zoe Bardet, Manager at Kenja Consulting and lead coordinator of the series. “Through this series, we’re creating a structured platform for meaningful dialogue and investment opportunities between these markets.”
The first event will coincide with the Dubai FinTech Summit in May 2025, capitalising on the presence of global fintech leaders and investors. Subsequent gatherings will align with major fintech conferences, including the FTT Fintech Festival in London and Abu Dhabi Finance Week, both slated for November 2025.
The series will feature carefully curated matchmaking sessions pairing investors with pre-vetted fintech startups, expert panels exploring cross-border opportunities, workshops on regulatory compliance in both regions, and exclusive networking events for investors and founders.
As Dubai and Abu Dhabi establish themselves as rising fintech hubs, complementing London’s global prominence, this initiative meets the growing demand for cross-border fintech investment opportunities between the UAE and UK.
“We’ve observed increasing demand from our clients for opportunities to expand their fintech portfolios across these markets,” Bardet noted. “This series will provide a structured approach to identifying and evaluating investment opportunities while building lasting relationships between the two ecosystems.”
The series will culminate in a significant summit in Dubai in February 2026, where successful partnerships and investments from the initiative will be showcased.
For further information about the event series and details on how to participate, interested parties can reach out to Kenja Consulting.
For investors seeking a versatile, all-in-one trading experience, this MarketsCo.com review reveals how this brand is setting itself apart. With the ability to trade and invest in stocks, crypto, and more on one seamless platform, MarketsCo.com review readers will see why over 10,000 users in 93 countries have chosen this platform to manage and grow their investments. The company offers a blend of top-notch security, user-friendly design, and efficient execution speeds, allowing both new and experienced investors to confidently trade on their preferred devices.
MarketsCo’s emphasis on accessibility and versatility is designed to meet the needs of a wide range of investors, from those looking to buy stocks to users focusing on crypto. The platform’s commitment to technology ensures that users enjoy a smooth trading experience, whether they are accessing it via desktop or mobile. With round-the-clock support and a reputation for reliability, MarketsCo is trusted globally, giving users a place to manage multiple assets within a single account.
Comprehensive Asset Variety: Stocks, Crypto, and Beyond
Investors today seek platforms that offer a variety of assets in one place, allowing them to diversify and explore multiple markets with ease. This platform supports a wide range of assets, including stocks, cryptocurrencies, forex, indices, and commodities, creating an all-in-one solution for modern traders. This breadth of options caters to diverse trading goals, whether users are looking to invest in well-established stocks, engage in the dynamic world of crypto, or stabilize their portfolios with commodities. This diverse asset selection provides traders with flexibility, enabling them to move fluidly between markets as opportunities arise without needing multiple accounts across different platforms.
For traders aiming to manage risk and maximize returns, the platform’s wide asset variety is invaluable. Stocks serve as a more stable investment avenue, providing consistent growth over time, while the volatility of cryptocurrencies offers high-reward opportunities for risk-tolerant investors. Forex and commodities add yet another layer, catering to those interested in currency fluctuations or real asset investments like precious metals. This extensive range ensures that each investor, from beginner to seasoned professional, can align their trades with their unique financial goals and risk tolerance.
Global Reach: Trusted by Over 10,000 Users Worldwide
With over 10,000 users spanning 93 countries, this platform has established a genuinely global presence, signaling both its credibility and wide appeal. Serving a broad, international clientele, the platform demonstrates that it meets the needs of investors from various economic and cultural backgrounds. This global reach also illustrates a level of trust that can be particularly reassuring for new users looking for a reliable trading environment. As financial markets fluctuate and economies shift, a platform with a substantial international user base offers a level of stability and credibility that appeals to a wide range of traders, regardless of location.
The worldwide reach of the platform fosters a dynamic and insightful trading community, where users benefit from shared experiences and strategies across diverse market conditions. For traders, the presence of a global user base adds value by exposing them to a variety of perspectives and trading styles. By catering to an international audience, the platform has created an inclusive, community-driven space that enriches the experience for users.
In today’s digital age, ease of use is a top priority for traders, and this platform excels with its user-friendly interface that simplifies every aspect of the trading journey. From registration to executing trades, the platform’s design is intuitive and streamlined, ensuring users can complete essential tasks without unnecessary complexity. The straightforward navigation allows traders to move between assets, access resources, and monitor their portfolios effortlessly, making it a suitable choice for both beginners and experienced investors.
Moreover, the MarketsCo platform’s seamless functionality extends to mobile devices, offering traders flexibility and convenience in a rapidly shifting market environment. Users can monitor trades, access account information, and make real-time decisions from their smartphones, making it easy to stay engaged with the market wherever they are. By providing this level of accessibility across devices, the platform caters to the needs of modern traders who require quick and efficient access to their investments.
Built on advanced technology, this platform provides traders with a suite of sophisticated tools that enhance the decision-making process. From real-time market data to comprehensive technical analysis charts and a wide array of trading indicators, users have access to resources designed to meet the needs of both beginner and seasoned traders. This set of tools allows traders to track market trends, evaluate potential investments, and execute well-informed strategies.
The advanced technology also supports high-speed trade execution, reducing latency and ensuring that trades are processed smoothly. This is crucial in a fast-paced market where timing can impact profitability, as even minor delays may influence outcomes. The platform’s commitment to speed and precision helps traders stay competitive, enabling them to capitalize on opportunities as they arise.
Integrated Security Measures: Protecting Your Investments
Security is a fundamental concern for any investor, and this MarketsCo platform prioritizes it by implementing robust protective measures for both client funds and user data. Client funds are stored in segregated accounts, ensuring that investments remain separate from the platform’s operational funds. This structural safeguard is a significant reassurance to traders, as it provides an extra layer of financial protection and reduces the risk associated with fund management. For investors who prioritize security, knowing that their money is handled responsibly is a substantial advantage, especially in the unpredictable world of online trading.
Additionally, the platform employs advanced encryption and cybersecurity protocols to protect sensitive information and transactional data. With the rise in cyber threats and hacking attempts in the financial sector, maintaining a secure trading environment is essential. The platform’s dedication to comprehensive data protection measures reassures users that they can trade with confidence, without fearing exposure to unnecessary risks.
Conclusion of the MarketsCo.com Review
In conclusion, the MarketsCo.com review highlights the platform’s ability to provide tailored solutions for a diverse range of traders. With a comprehensive selection of assets, top-tier security, and an intuitive interface, it offers everything a trader needs to succeed in the fast-paced world of stocks, crypto, and more. The platform’s global reach and advanced technology ensure that users can trade with confidence, no matter where they are located.
Moreover, its commitment to user security and its integrated risk management strategies make it a reliable choice for traders at all levels. As explored in this MarketsCo.com review, this platform stands out for its flexibility, offering a variety of account types, advanced tools, and a high level of customer support that make it an excellent option for both new and experienced traders.
This article is crafted for informational objectives and is not intended to serve as investment advice. The author is exempt from any liability regarding the company’s actions or the outcomes of your trading endeavors. Information may not be current or error-free; thus, reliance on this content for financial decisions is at your own discretion. No warranty is provided on the information’s accuracy, and we are not liable for any investment or trading losses that may arise.
The Electric Car Scheme forecasts a transformative year for EVs, driven by policy changes and market growth.
Trump’s return to office could influence global EV markets, reshaping supply and demand.
Can the UK scale up EV adoption to meet 2030 zero-emissions goals on time?
The Electric Car Scheme has published its projections for the EV market in 2025, spotlighting how political decisions and local targets will shape the industry. With Donald Trump set to return as US President and UK manufacturers pushing for a 28% EV sales goal, the sector is poised for rapid change.
Meeting the 28% EV Sales Goal
Data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) reveals encouraging progress, with battery electric vehicles making up 20.7% of deliveries by October 2024, compared to 15.6% a year prior. If this growth persists, the 2025 target of 28% market share could signal a breakthrough in EV adoption.
Used EV Market Expands
The growing used EV market is also gaining traction. The Electric Car Scheme reports that since launching its used EV salary sacrifice programme, over 50% of its sales now come from pre-owned electric cars. This surge is attributed to the falling costs of used EVs, addressing affordability – the primary barrier for 68% of prospective buyers. As leases end and newer models enter the market, second-hand EVs will play a pivotal role in expanding access.
Charging Infrastructure Boom
By mid-2025, the UK will boast over 100,000 public EV chargers, significantly outpacing petrol stations. The increasing availability of rapid and ultra-rapid charging points is expected to alleviate range anxiety, while advancements like off-peak smart charging further reduce running costs.
Impacts of Trade Wars
Donald Trump’s presidency may unexpectedly benefit the UK EV market. The removal of tax credits in the US and higher tariffs could make foreign-made EVs less attractive to American buyers, prompting manufacturers to focus on other markets, including the UK. This shift could see more affordable Chinese EVs boosting UK adoption rates.
Thom Groot, CEO of The Electric Car Scheme, said: “The electric vehicle market is on the verge of a major transformation by 2025, and it’s an exciting time for both the industry and consumers. With battery technology advancing and governments around the world ramping up support, we’ll see EVs become increasingly accessible and affordable. As cheaper Chinese EVs become available, and the used EV market matures, we could see EVs available for less than £200 a month, a much more affordable price point.
“EV uptake was never going to be linear, like many things it goes through peaks and troughs, but we could be on the cusp of a significant jump as affordability increases rapidly. The UK has a long way to go to reach the 2030 target, but there is significant desire to achieve this from consumers. This is exactly why we set up The Electric Car Scheme, to help make it simpler and cheaper to get behind the wheel of an electric car.”
Investment Peak sets out to simplify this decision by offering a tailored trading platform to meet the needs of both new professional and seasoned investors. With various features, multiple markets, and a focus on ease of use, Investment Peak provides traders access to cryptocurrencies, Forex, and shares in one place. This Investment Peak review explores the platform’s functionalities, trading tools, and unique approach to helping users trade confidently and efficiently.
Key Features and Usability of the Investment Peak Platform
Investment Peak‘s primary draw lies in its user-centric design, which sets it apart from conventional platforms like MT4 and MT5. The broker is designed to be intuitive, allowing users to navigate complex markets without overwhelming them. This is particularly beneficial for newcomers who may find traditional trading tools complicated and for experienced traders looking for more streamlined operations.
The platform’s customisability also stands out. Users can personalise their dashboards, setting up tools and alerts based on their preferences and trading style. This feature enables traders to adapt the platform to suit their needs, whether creating custom alerts for specific market conditions or configuring the layout for easier access to essential tools.
Integrated Wallet and Market Access
A significant benefit of Investment Peak is its integrated wallet system, which allows users to trade various markets—such as cryptocurrencies, Forex, and shares—through a single account. Offering a single, centralised wallet simplifies portfolio management, as users no longer need to juggle multiple accounts across different platforms. This convenience enhances the overall user experience, making it easier for traders to monitor and adjust their investments without additional hassle.
This Investment Peak review emphasises the platform’s goal of accommodating various trading interests by providing a robust range of investment options. Access to over 200 trading instruments offers a wide selection of assets, allowing traders to explore global markets.
Enhanced Trade Execution and Reliability
Investment Peak promises superior trade execution, a critical feature for traders who rely on speed and accuracy. Timely execution is essential in trading, especially in volatile markets like Forex and cryptocurrencies, where even slight delays can lead to losses. The platform’s focus on delivering consistently effective execution supports traders in making quick and precise trades without concern over lag or technical disruptions.
Investment Peak offers seamless switching between its mobile app and web-based platform for those trading on the go. This cross-device compatibility allows traders to manage their accounts and monitor the markets anywhere, at any time. The mobile application retains all the primary functions of the web platform, including trade execution, charting tools, and alerts, which ensures a flexible and uninterrupted trading experience.
Charting Options and Analytical Tools for Diverse Trading Needs
Traders at all levels rely on analytical tools to make informed decisions. It provides various charting options that users can customise according to their analytical style. These options enable traders to view market trends, track price movements, and develop strategies based on technical data.
Its range of indicators and charting tools is especially useful for technical traders. These tools allow traders to observe price trends and determine market sentiment, which can be critical when developing short- or long-term trading strategies.
Advanced Risk Management Tools for Informed Trading
An essential component of any trading platform is the inclusion of risk management tools to help users protect their investments. The platform offers several options for managing risk, like stop-loss orders and negative balance protection. Each tool serves a distinct purpose, assisting traders in controlling potential losses and ensuring they do not exceed their investment limits.
Stop-loss orders enable users to set a specific point at which a trade will automatically close if the market moves unfavourably, protecting against substantial losses.
Trailing stops allow traders to lock in gains while maintaining an open position as the market price moves in their favour, which is particularly useful in volatile conditions.
Negative balance protection prevents traders from owing more than they initially invested, offering a safety net for retail clients who may face unexpected losses during periods of high volatility.
These risk management tools allow Investment Peak’s traders greater control over their investment outcomes, making it easier for them to adopt strategic approaches that align with their risk tolerance.
Personalised Trading Experience and Dashboard Management
Another significant feature in this Investment Peak review is the ability to personalise the trading experience. Users can manage their dashboards to suit their trading styles, from adjusting layout preferences to setting specific trade alerts. This level of customisation allows users to craft a personalised experience that goes beyond the platform’s standard features, ensuring that each individual can design a workspace that suits their specific needs. Investment Peak emphasises personalisation to deliver an efficient and user-friendly experience.
Accessibility and Customer Support
Investment Peak offers 24/5 customer support through multiple channels, including email, live chat, and phone, ensuring that traders have access to help during trading hours. For traders, responsive support is essential, particularly when facing technical issues or seeking assistance with specific tools.
Investment Peak review clarifies that its support team is trained to assist with technical and trading-related inquiries, which can benefit novice and experienced traders. The platform also provides a FAQ section for self-service solutions that helps traders address common issues, enabling traders to find quick answers without waiting for direct support.
General Terms of Bonus Eligibility and Usage
Though certain eligibility conditions apply, Investment Peak includes various promotional offers and bonuses for users. Some bonuses are geographically restricted due to legal regulations, and bonus usage is generally subject to conditions specified by Investment Peak. Traders interested in bonus offers should know that the one-trader-per-household rule is in place, meaning bonuses are limited to one account per household.
The platform also reserves the right to withdraw or modify bonuses without prior notice, which is standard industry practice. Additionally, if a payment provider declines a transaction, it reserves the right to cancel any associated bonuses or profits.
Withdrawal and Refund Policies
Investment Peak’s withdrawal and refund policy is accessible through the platform’s website. This policy governs the process of withdrawing funds, including any conditions related to processing times or fees. While detailed policy specifics are provided directly to users, Investment Peak emphasises transparency in handling client funds and ensuring they can access them when needed.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, this Investment Peak review highlights a platform designed with accessibility, customisation, and user support in mind. It provides traders access to diverse markets, a comprehensive suite of analytical tools, and advanced risk management options. The platform’s integration of a single wallet for multiple markets, combined with seamless cross-device functionality, positions it as a versatile option for traders seeking convenience and control.
While Investment Peak’s offerings align with industry standards, its commitment to a personalised trading experience and robust customer support makes it appealing to many traders. For those seeking a platform that balances ease of use with powerful trading features, Investment Peak provides an environment geared toward secure and efficient trading practices.
Disclaimer – This document is intended to convey information only, without implying any form of endorsement or recommendation. The author disclaims any responsibility for the company’s conduct or your trading results. Given that the information may not always be updated or accurate, the reader should proceed with caution and assume full responsibility for any financial decisions. This site expressly disclaims any liability for losses or damages incurred from such decisions.
RGBW technology enhances the tower’s dynamic visual appeal
Official launch during UAE’s Eid Al Etihad celebrations
Emaar Properties has unveiled a groundbreaking lighting upgrade for the Burj Khalifa. Using advanced RGBW technology, the new system brings a fresh vibrancy to the tower’s exterior, combining cutting-edge innovation with timeless architectural design. The upgrade will be showcased during the UAE’s Eid Al Etihad celebrations on 1 December 2024, leading up to the tower’s 15th anniversary on 4 January 2025.
This transformation delivers an extensive range of colours and intricate effects, creating a more engaging experience for visitors and reaffirming Dubai’s role as a global leader in design and technology.
The upgrade was preceded by six months of testing to ensure precise integration. The RGBW fixtures replace the static lights previously used, introducing colour-changing and addressable features capable of crafting stunning lighting sequences for celebrations and daily displays alike. These enhancements seamlessly align with Burj Khalifa’s media screen and preserve its iconic design.
Mr Ahmad Al Matrooshi, Executive Director at Emaar Properties, commented: “Burj Khalifa has always stood as a beacon of what is possible when vision meets innovation. This lighting overhaul is a testament to our continuous pursuit of excellence and a tribute to the UAE’s spirit of progress. As we unveil this stunning upgrade during Eid Al Etihad celebrations and approach the tower’s 15th anniversary, this transformation marks a new chapter in its legacy, reaffirming Dubai as a city of boundless ambition.”
The project exemplifies the fusion of technology and artistry, setting a new benchmark for architectural lighting innovation and inspiring projects worldwide.
A former soldier (pictured) who sparked a nationwide manhunt after escaping from prison has been convicted of spying offences.
The conviction follows an investigation by the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command which found he had been sharing sensitive military information with Iranian agents.
Today, Daniel Khalife (23) has been found guilty of espionage and terrorism offences at Woolwich Crown Court.
Commander Dominic Murphy, head of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command said:“The threat to the UK from states such as Iran is very serious, so for a soldier in the Army to be sharing sensitive military material and information with them is extremely reckless and dangerous.
“Khalife claimed that he wanted to help the UK’s security by becoming a so-called ‘double-agent’ but the reality we uncovered is that he simply put UK security at great risk by what he was doing.
“Then, when he was in prison awaiting trial, he escaped and went on the run. But thanks to some brilliant police work – here in the Met, but also across the country – coupled with the fantastic support of the public, we were able to find and arrest him to make sure he faced justice.
“I’d like to praise all those who worked on this investigation – those who looked into Khalife’s activity in sharing information with the Iranians, but also the many colleagues from agencies and police forces who assisted us when he was at large.
“I hope this serves as a warning that the illegal sharing of information in this way will be treated extremely seriously by security services and police and we will use the full force of the law against those who put the UK’s security at risk.”
An investigation into Khalife began in November 2021 after he anonymously contacted MI5 twice that month to say that he had established contact with Iranian agents and wanted to become a ‘double agent’.
The details, however, were passed to police and they identified that Khalife was the person behind the calls and that he was a soldier in the Army based at Staffordshire Barracks.
Khalife was arrested in January 2022, and police seized various devices and documents from his room. The ensuing investigation found Khalife was in possession of various sensitive documents and information – including details of soldiers who were attached to highly sensitive military units.
They also found evidence that Khalife had made contact with Iranian agents and had passed sensitive military information to them over the preceding two-and-a-half years.
Khalife was due to be charged with offences in January 2023, however he was reported as missing by his Army unit in early January 2023. When his room was searched, what appeared to be a potential improvised explosive device was found, along with a note, indicating that Khalife had left as he feared he was going to be charged when he returned on bail.
On January 26, 2023, Khalife was spotted at a Leisure Centre in Staffordshire and was subsequently arrested and charged.
In September 2023, while awaiting trial, Khalife escaped from HMP Wandsworth. Police were informed and following a three-day manhunt – which involved hundreds of officers from across the Metropolitan Police, as well as support from police forces across the country and colleagues from various other agencies including those at ports and borders – Khalife was found and arrested in Northolt.
When he was giving evidence during his trial at Woolwich Crown Court, on November 11, Khalife pleaded guilty to escaping from HMP Wandsworth.
On November 28, he was found guilty of passing on information to Iran, contrary to section 1 of the Official Secrets Act 1911. He was also found guilty of eliciting or attempted to elicit information of a kind likely to be useful to a person committing or preparing an act of terrorism, contrary to section 58A of the Terrorism Act 2000.
Khalife was found not guilty by the jury of creating a bomb hoax at the Army barracks in Staffordshire.
Medieval scholar M.R. James first told his haunting stories to a group of undergraduates and dons at King’s College, Cambridge, at the turn of the last century.
He started a Christmas tradition for spooky stories that’s continued ever since.
And now it’s your turn to experience the atmosphere of staying in an ancient Oxford or Cambridge college this December.
Why is it that Christmas time and creepy ghost stories go hand in hand? M.R. James’ ghost stories, many of which were first told at Christmas gatherings at King’s College, Cambridge, have now become a staple of an English Christmas.
From Mark Gatiss’ eerie modern adaptations to Robert Powell’s classic BBC readings, James’ haunting tales have become as much a part of Christmas as stockings and mince pies. Now it’s possible to soak up the ancient and occasionally eerie atmosphere with a stay at an Oxford or Cambridge college this December, says a leading travel expert.
Lily Smith, from the specialist accommodation finder UniversityRooms.com, said: “Think Christmas and candlelit ancient buildings spring to mind. That’s partly because of the wonderful sound and spectacle of Carols from King’s. It’s must-see Christmas Eve viewing and not to be missed if you are staying in Cambridge.
“However, there is also a more chilling reason an ancient university town may leap to mind. Christmas has become synonymous with cosy ghost stories. Thanks to M.R. James, the famous former Provost of King’s College, Cambridge (pictured) some of the spookiest have been set in an atmospheric old college.
“At the turn of the last century, James would light a single candle and tell his haunting ghost stories to groups of undergraduates and dons every Christmas. Many of these were published in James’ first collection, “Ghost Stories of an Antiquary,” in 1904 and they have been an essential part of Christmas ever since.”
Several of Gatiss’ most famous and scary stories, such as “Oh Whistle and I’ll Come to You, My Lad,” and “The Mezzotint”, are about eerie events befalling hapless professors.
Many people will have seen Mark Gatiss’ spooktacular Christmas Eve 2021 BBC adaptation of “The Mezzotint”. The curator of a university art museum (probably based on Oxford University) is scared witless when an old engraving of a country house changes every night to show a vengeful figure returning from the grave.
If you have been hooked by the atmosphere of these unsettling stories, it’s now possible to stay at a number of Cambridge and Oxford colleges this December.
The good news is you don’t have to be a student to stay in them and many are considerably cheaper – with rooms from as little as £50 a night – than staying in a hotel in these ancient cities.
Vehicle owners in high-risk areas are being urged by motoring experts to take extra precautions in the wake of Storm Bert and continued flooding.
Storm Bert has unleashed more than 80% of November’s average rainfall in under 48 hours, wreaking havoc across the UK. Torrential rain and strong winds have led to widespread flooding and severe travel delays across the country.
Low-lying areas and major transport routes have been among the hardest hit. In Listowel, over 70 homes were evacuated, and more than 100 roads have become impassable in what has been described as the worst flooding in over 50 years.
When it comes to the cost of damages at the hands of Storm Bert, past events may provide some perspective. Though calculated over a longer period of time, Government figures show flooding between November 2019 and March 2020 resulted in economic losses of £333 million.
With Storm Bert’s unprecedented rainfall, many areas of the UK are now beginning to count the costs of the damages caused, and in Northern Ireland, the combined damage to property and infrastructure, as well as disruptions to Christmas trade, means the region expects losses of millions of Euro.
Vehicles are particularly vulnerable during flooding events, and vehicle expert and Regtransfers CEO Mark Trimbee urges drivers across the country to take precautions, sharing some key advice for motorists:
“Storm Bert has caused chaos across the UK, with heavy rainfall and rising floodwaters creating hazardous conditions for drivers. If you own a car, the best thing you can do is plan ahead. Don’t leave your vehicle parked in low-lying areas where it’s vulnerable, and never attempt to drive through floodwater – even if it looks shallow. It takes just 30cm of water to make a car float, and the damage from water getting into your engine or electronics can be catastrophic.
If your vehicle has already been caught in the flood, resist the urge to start it up, as this could cause irreversible damage. Instead, get it checked by a professional before doing anything else. With storms like this becoming more common, it’s also worth double-checking your insurance to ensure you’re covered for flood-related issues.
Stay safe, keep an eye on weather alerts, and take precautions now – a little effort could save you a lot of hassle in the long run.”
Drivers are reminded to review their car insurance policies to confirm flood damage coverage. While comprehensive insurance typically includes protection against flood damage, third-party or third-party, fire, and theft policies usually do not. Negligent behaviour, such as attempting to drive through floodwaters, may also void claims, even with comprehensive cover. Coverage providers may treat the impact of Storm Bert differently, so drivers are urged to check their policy if they have concerns.
Vehicle owners in high-risk areas are encouraged to take proactive steps, such as parking on higher ground, avoiding flood-prone routes, and staying informed through weather alerts.
