Met Office Issues 'Very High' Pollen Warning in North East
The Met Office has issued a "very high" pollen warning for the North East of England and other parts of the UK. The warning, effective from Thursday, June 20, 2024, comes as temperatures rise, leading to increased pollen levels. According to the Met Office, grass pollen, alongside other plants like nettle, dock, and plantain, will reach high levels in warm, dry weather conditions. This situation is expected to persist at least until Monday.
High pollen counts can significantly affect hay fever sufferers, causing symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, and itchy eyes. The NHS offers several recommendations to alleviate symptoms, including using petroleum jelly around the nostrils, wearing sunglasses or a hat, and keeping windows shut.
Warning Issued Over Flushing Common Bathroom Items
Plumbing experts in the UK have warned homeowners about the dangers of flushing certain items, such as dental floss and hair, down the toilet. David Doran of Blackstone Plumbing and Heating explained that dental floss is non-biodegradable and can cause severe blockages by wrapping around other debris. Fixing water damage from such blockages can cost an average of £2000. Hair flushed down the toilet can also lead to significant problems, including pipe corrosion, water backups, and potentially costly repairs.
The issues extend beyond financial costs, as clogged pipes and water damage can pose health hazards by polluting water supplies with bacteria.
Newcastle United Maintains Stance on Sandro Tonali
Newcastle United will not entertain any cut-price offers for Sandro Tonali, despite reports linking him back to AC Milan. The Italian international, currently serving a 10-month suspension for gambling violations, is expected to return in late August. Newcastle has supported Tonali throughout his ordeal, and the club's management believes he will emerge stronger. According to sources, any attempts by Milan to reacquire Tonali would need to meet Newcastle's valuation, reflecting the club's intent to keep its high-profile player.
Lockdown at The Crescent Academy in Meir After Incident
The Crescent Academy in Meir, Stoke-on-Trent, went into lockdown on June 18, 2024, after reports of a masked man armed with a weapon in the vicinity. Staffordshire Police arrested a 46-year-old man and found a screwdriver at the scene. The suspect has been released on conditional bail pending further investigation. Authorities have urged anyone with information to contact them.
Girls Aloud's Emotional Tribute to Sarah Harding
During Girls Aloud’s current tour, Cheryl revealed why Shakira's "Waka Waka" is played before their performances—it was the favorite song of their late bandmate Sarah Harding. The group, which reunited for their highly anticipated tour, includes a poignant tribute to Harding, who passed away in 2021 after battling cancer. Her vocals feature prominently in several performances, including touching renditions of "Whole Lotta History" and "I'll Stand By You."