thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-08-01--Why Won't Boris Johnson Admit It's Too Dangerous To Keep Pubs Open?

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Most of you are probably old enough to remember when Boris Johnson was going to “squash the sombrero” and “send the virus packing” in 12 weeks. He does seem to have an addiction to false hope, provided there is a snappy three- or four-word slogan attached.
Some of you will go back even further, to the time when Johnson said there had to be one country in the world prepared to stand up against this virus without shutting down the economy, and it might as well be good old Blighty.
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Well, what a mess the country’s handling of Covid has been ever since, and what a total mess it is right now. Only someone who has neither respect for truth nor any desire to be connected to it could boast incessantly, as Johnson does, of the success he has made of it.
Crisis management requires clarity of messaging and openness with the public about the data and the thinking behind decisions. Johnson’s government has been woeful on both.
I assume that his press conference yesterday was designed to provide greater clarity about the guidelines currently in place and the changes to the lockdown easing plan (sic). It would certainly have been quite a challenge to be any less clear than Matt Hancock had been on the airwaves in the morning, where his word blancmanges about the new rules for the new Northern lockdown had a succession of interviewers looking nonplussed.
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Prime Minister Boris Johnson speaking during a media briefing in Downing Street, London, on coronavirus (COVID-19). PA
A highlight of the Health Secretary’s communication, on BBC Breakfast, is worth quoting in full: “We know that from the contact tracing information so whenever anybody tests positive the vast majority of them, umm, we manage to speak to and we ask which contacts they’ve had who they’ve been in contact with and that’s shown that the vast majority of contacts of people who have the virus are pe – are from – other than people in their own household of course, umm, who have to self-isolate anyway is is is from households visiting and them visiting friends and relatives, uh, er, and and those two are bigger than the impact the number of contacts that people have say at work or visiting, erm, visiting shops and, and, that means that we’re because we have that information from the NHS test and trace system it means that we’re able to take this action which is more targeted at erm erm controlling the spread of the virus.” Pardon?
Johnson decided to dispense with verbs for part of his presentation, and one wondered if he had done the same psychological challenge as Donald Trump as he advised us to: “Hands, face, space, get a test.”
“We’re Boris’s Britain where common sense oozes from the top. It’s why we have had more excess deaths than any country in Europe, and a Prime Minister who calls that a success.”
I shall paraphrase the rest of his mangled messaging … “Sorry folks, but that trip to the bowling alley or the ice rink is just going to have to wait. Too risky. But hey, guess what, the most vulnerable among you who have been shielding for months ... you’re free to roam! We’re also still pressing on with the ‘eat out to help out’ scheme, because I am not going to let one of my rare five-word slogans go to waste. And I know that with the Chief Medical Officer standing there saying we’ve reached the limits of opening society, you might be thinking I will tell you to get back indoors and work from home, but no .... that part of the lockdown easing is still on.
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“So get on your bike, or get on the bus wearing the mask we used to tell you was more likely to spread disease than stop it, and get into work. I don’t really have the data or the science to explain why I think you should, just trust me, my name is Boris Johnson. If you do everything I say, I am sure we can have the kids back in school by September and everything back to normal by Christmas. That’s the plan anyway and we have had a tremendous success with all of our other plans so I am confident it will be Christmas at Chequers for me with Lord Lebedev, Lord Brother Jo and Lord Beefy. Don’t you just love it when I troll a whole nation?”
I know I won’t be alone in having family and friends who have had to postpone weddings, and one of the lockdown easing moves Johnson put on hold yesterday was for wedding receptions for more than 30 people. But on that one too, there is a fairly easy get out folks. Have the wedding. And then meet your friends and family down the pub.
Because the good old British pub, unlike the ice rink, is absolutely fine. And unlike at the good old British museum, you don’t even have to wear a mask, provided you keep to all the social distancing and hand washing and sanitising rules, which let’s be honest, nobody who has had a few pints is ever going to forget or disobey, are they?
We’re Boris’s Britain where common sense oozes from the top. It’s why we have had more excess deaths than any country in Europe, and a Prime Minister who calls that a success.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-08-01--10 Of The UK's Best Outdoor Swimming Pools To Live The Lido Life

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You’re reading our series Summer’s Not Cancelled, celebrating summer in this new normal. From rediscovering nature and cherishing time with friends and family to virtual festivals and unforgettable staycations – summer’s still here, it’s just different.
Is there any better feeling than dipping your toes into the cool, refreshing waters of the pool? After a sticky train or car journey submerging your entire body (head and shoulders, too) feels like a luxurious treat – how we’ve missed it.
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It’s been a while, but now that many (but not all) lidos have reopened to the public: it’s time to put on your cossie, roll up your towel and pick up your suncream. We’re going swimming.
From Yorkshire to Brighton, these are the best outdoor pools in the UK recommended by Parkdean Resorts that’ll guarantee you the best of British summertime.
1. Jubilee Pool, Penzance
Hugh R Hastings via Getty Images
Want a swim that overlooks the picturesque coastline of Cornwall? Then Penzance’s Jubilee Pool is the answer. The largest seawater lido in the country boasts magnificent Art Deco architecture and Cubist-style changing rooms dating back to its opening in 1935, the pool has recently been restored and is now grander than ever with more streamlined swimming lanes. For those who’d prefer to sit on the sidelines and watch there’s also a licensed café for adults, a toddler’s pool set within the main swimming area, and a giant inflatable for kids to play on.
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Advance booking required. There are five hourly swim sessions between 10am - 4pm. Tickets cost £4.25 for adults, while children cost £3.00. Visit the website for more information.
2. Hathersage Swimming Pool, Peak District
Swim with the beautiful surrounding views of the Peak District at Hathersage Swimming Pool. At home in a quaint village, the pool has been around since the 1930s and the pool is heated to 28C all year – bringing joy to outdoor swimmers and visiting families for years to come. The adjoining cafe is ready to refuel you afterwards, but if you fancy bringing your own snacks or picnic there is a lawned seating area with breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. Rest assured, the pool has recently undergone recent renovations which includes the installation of a new circulation and filter system.
Advanced booking required. Hourly swim sessions between 7am-7pm. Half-hour swim sessions for members only. Tickets cost £7 for adults, while children cost £4. Visit the website for more information.
3. Ilkley Pool and Lido, Yorkshire
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With the famous moorland providing a beautiful backdrop, Ilkley Lido is certainly a pool with a view and it’s no surprise that this lido is known as one of the best outdoor pools in the North of England. The main pool is freshwater and unheated, when the weather turns there’s an indoor heated pool too. Sadly, the lido is currently undergoing repair work until end of August, but the indoor pools are open from July 25. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, there are plenty of places to enjoy a bite to eat. Take a seat at the lido’s popular Art Deco style café, or set up a picnic on the lawns.
Advanced booking required. Outdoor lido closed, but indoor pool open. Tickets cost £4.80 for adults, while children cost £2.50. Visit the website for more information.
4. Shap Swimming Pool, Cumbria
This beautiful open-air swimming pool is one of the most visited outdoor pools in the UK and with good reason. It’s 900 ft above sea level and this Lake District wonder is the highest heated pool in the entire country. Swim in the 20-metre pool or enjoy the smaller paddling pool which is perfect for little ones. Since the 1980s, it’s been run by a team of amazing volunteers and they’ve kept the open-air pool around for generations to come but also run a small shop for refreshments and make sure the picnic tables and benches are up to standard for amazing family days out. Bad news: Shap Swimming Pool has confirmed it’s not going to be opened this year, but will be planning to reopen next year bigger and better than ever.
Closed for 2020. Visit the website for more information.
5. Gourock Outdoor Pool, Renfrewshire
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Visit Scotland’s oldest lido - Gourock Outdoor Pool. Whether you want to be daring on the diving boards or take in the beautiful views of the River Clyde, there’s endless fun to be had. As an alternative to swimming, popular aqua classes are held here too, and the newly refurbished gym offers a contemporary and modern space to exercise. And the coolest thing? You can visit the pool at night for a midnight swim under the stars, the perfect activity for a warm summer evening. Scotland’s First Minister has said pools in Scotland will not be able to reopen before July 31, so keep your eyes peeled for more details on reopening.
Advanced booking required. Tickets cost £4.50 for adults, while children cost £3.90. Family Swim available. Visit the website for more information.
6. Stonehaven Open Air Pool, Aberdeen
The epic Olympic-size pool uses filtered seawater directly from Stonehaven Bay and is heated to a toasty 29 degrees for your swimming pleasure. It’s funded by the local community group and thanks to its 1930s listed Art Deco features it looks something straight out of a Wes Anderson set. There’s an amazing paddling pool for under 8s, quiet swims, learner swimming lanes and even midnight swims where you can swim beneath the stars to disco music. Hard luck, they’ve confirmed it won’t be open for this year’s season, but get your swimming cossie ready for 2021.
Closed for 2020. Visit the website for more information.
7. Tinside Lido, Plymouth
MarcioSuster via Getty Images
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This iconic Grade II listed Art Deco semi-circle 50m wide pool makes for an incredible swim with even better views overlooking The Sound, one of Plymouth’s most popular bays. From small fishing boats to huge ferries, enjoy watching a vast array of boats glide into the harbour as you relax by the pool. The three fancy fountains and regular inflatable fun sessions make this saltwater pool a great day out for the kids this summer. While the children have fun, you can soak up the sun on the terrace and look out onto the sparkling sea. Bonus points where you can visit the lido by night, and watch a film at one of the many open-air cinema events hosted at the pool. No news yet on its reopening but on their website it says they are currently liaising with local authority partners.
Advanced booking required. Tickets cost £4.50 for adults, while children cost £3.50. Family tickets are available. Visit the website for more information.
8. Saltdean Lido, Brighton
Nickos via Getty Images
Dive right into ‘The Seventh Wonder of the English Seaside’, as described by English Heritage. The Saltdean Lido is a beautiful coastal spot that was originally constructed in the 1930s with an iconic new Hollywood Modernist design. After years of neglect, it’s been reopened since 2017 and offers an outdoor and indoor pool, as well as badminton facilities, a bar, and a cafe. Keep your eyes peeled for reopening news, they’re currently working within the government approved guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable swim sesh.
Currently closed. Visit the website for more information and reopening details.
9. Nantwich Outdoor Brine Pool, Cheshire
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Experience the salt on your skin as you swim in one of the last few remaining heated brine pools in the UK. Be warned, the lanes are a little longer than coming in at 30-metres rather than the typical 25-metres and they’re suited for confident adult swimmers, as you’ll be swimming away from a wall and out of your depth. For those wanting to swim inside at one of the two indoor swimming pools or junior swimmers wanting to hop in the learner pools, you’ll have to wait a little longer as they won’t be open until September. Rest assured, there’ll be no bumping into anyone else as there are only 21 swimmers per session.
Advanced booking required. Opened weekdays Monday-Friday from 7.45am-2.45pm for hourly swim slots. Tickets cost £5.50 for adults and £4.50 for members. Visit the website for more information
10. Sandford Parks Lido, Cheltenham
Another one for the serious swimmers. This amazing 50-metre pool within the gardens of Sandford Park in the Cotswolds was built in the 1930s. It’s home to a 50-metre Olympic sized main pool, as well as smaller family-friendly pool, a paddling pool and a few slides that are all heated within the season. Keep in mind when you visit that the changing rooms, showers and lockers will be closed, but toilets are accessible, so if you fancy a dip be sure to arrive ‘beach ready’ and bring minimal belongings with you.
Advanced booking required. Opened weekdays Monday-Sunday from 6.30am-6.30pm. Tickets cost £7 for adults. Visit the website for more information.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-08-01--This Cartoonist’s Hilarious Drawings Epitomise Lockdown Life

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Flu Fighters, Billie Ill-ish, Hand-gel Olsen and Christine and the Quarantines are four of the acts that headlined this year’s Glastonbury festival, according to cartoonist James FitzGerald – known as Fitz in cartooning circles.
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The London-based artist has been deciphering lockdown with his cartoons, which parody the often contradictory messages from the government, as well as find joy hidden in the horrors and hilarities of lockdown living.
In the months since he started drawing, he’s received dozens of messages from people on Instagram who find the images help them cope.
“I’d love people to feel they can relate to an image, even if it’s just a dumb drawing about a man who says he has a ‘sense of impending Zoom,’” he tells HuffPost UK.
“I’m not out to make light of the global crisis or people’s suffering. Instead, I want to express solidarity with my friends and family who I’ve been largely separated from for months.”
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HuffPost UK James FitzGerald,
Fitz’s cartoons include an imagined Covid-19-themed edition of the Glastonbury line-up, where every artist is named after the virus, as well as a hairdresser who reverts the stereotype about hairdressers asking clients whether they’ve been on “any nice holidays” this year.
“It imagined a stylist casually asking his customer whether she’s cancelled – not booked, but cancelled – any nice holidays this year,” jokes Fitz. “I’ve been interested in the banal ways the pandemic is now a part of our lives in the UK, which seems past its initial peak.
“It’s curious to see people trying to adapt to this weird new reality.”
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Observing the behaviour of “lockdowners” is how Fitz has found inspiration.
“As the pandemic has evolved, so too have the sayings and slogans,” he says, “and these are perfect for lampooning. At first, society was working out how to ‘flatten the curve’. Now we’re negotiating the ‘mask debate’ (which sounds rude when said out loud in an American accent).”
Fitz insists that when it comes to cartoons, simplest is always best. “If I don’t execute an idea quickly, I’ll lose interest or overthink the words that go into it.”
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A cartoon takes about an hour, he says, including a touch of digital airbrushing. He relies on pen, ink, and graphite powder to work. “When I can’t get drawing paper, I’ve used the backs of bills or envelopes,” he explains.
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Fitz’s approach has taken him beyond social media admirers, too – Private Eye magazine recently published a cartoon of his which parodies an old Chinese print. “I’ve been inundating the mag with drawing after drawing. Finally they caved and published my cartoon about second waves. It’s been a dream to be in Private Eye (provided that’s not me being accused of wrongdoing, of course!)”
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Fitz sees the global vaccine race as the next key phase of his cartoon Covid-19 story. “There’s certainly potential for humour there, what with the claims of international spying,” he says.
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thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-08-01--Black British TV Shows Are Still Missing From Our Screens

The Real McCoy (3) BBC
After a quarter of a century, The Real McCoy made a highly anticipated return to our TV screens on Monday.
Every episode of the influential sketch comedy show is now available on BBC iPlayer – the first time many fans will have been able to watch the show since it was originally broadcast between 1991-1996.
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I was born in 1992 and, by the time I was old enough to watch and appreciate television, The Real McCoy had finished its run. However, I revelled in watching episodes of the hit-show that a family member had taped on VHS – remember those?
The Real McCoy (2) BBC
The Real McCoy wasn’t just comedy for the sake of laughs – it was the perfect example of edutainment (where education meets entertainment), and gave a unique insight into Black British life, something that was before then sorely lacking in British media representation.
It blew my little mind to see people who looked like me dazzle the world with their skills and place our stories and cultural experiences at the forefront of TV, to see Black cast members talk like my mum, aunts, uncles and grandparents.
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However, the call for the BBC to re-run the show or release it on DVD has been ongoing for almost a decade, so it’s a shame the corporation neglected to act upon it before now.
Back in 2013, a BBC spokesperson told Davina Hamilton, former entertainment editor at The Voice newspaper, who had been spearheading the publication’s Bring Back The Real McCoy campaign since 2012, that there wasn’t “a big enough market to justify the investment.”
For years, the nation has been able to watch white British comedy classics around the clock on platforms like the Gold channel, including Only Fools And Horses, The Vicar of Dibley, Fawlty Towers and Gimme Gimme Gimme. We’ve seen new standards such as The Catherine Tate Show, Gavin and Stacey and even Little Britain, with its racist use of Blackface, being produced and critically acclaimed. Yet, The Real McCoy has remained buried in obscurity, only relevant to those of us lucky enough to have witnessed it the first time around.
The Real McCoy BBC
So, why bring it back now?
It’s hard not to question the BBC’s timing. Perhaps they felt pressure to make some kind of public gesture towards Black audiences in the wake of the murder of George Floyd, and the global, social unrest of the Black Lives Matter movement that followed.
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But why should Black licence-paying viewers have to put down one piece a begging to see this measure implemented?
Indeed, in reaction to this news, cast member Leo Muhammed told Hamilton: “I think it’s more game playing from the BBC. Because of the upheaval that has stemmed from the murder of George Floyd, I think they’re jumping on the bandwagon and delivering a token gesture to make [Black people] think they genuinely care about us.”
Laughter and nostalgia aside, I also felt a curious twinge of sadness re-watching old episodes earlier this week.
A lump formed in my throat because many of the sociopolitical concerns of the 1990s that were being addressed in sketches are still relevant today, such as police stopping and searching Black men, Conservative government policies disproportionately targeting Black communities, and lack of diversity on television, such as the below gaff: “Look, mum: Black people are on telly!”
The Real McCoy still Screenshot
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It reinforced how so much has changed and yet so very little.
I also felt waves of quiet rage because, almost three decades after The Real McCoy first aired, there’s no equivalent on national television for Black audiences.
How has that been allowed to happen? A couple of short-lived, albeit brilliant, series have come and gone since such as The Lenny Henry Show (originally aired between 1984-1988, then revived in 1995 and 2004-2005), The Crouches, Three Non-Blondes and Famalam.
But a handful of Black shows – both comedy and otherwise – in over a quarter of a century is frankly unconscionable.
Aside from clinging to the odd diverse character in mainstream soaps such as The Trumans in Eastenders during my adolescence, my personal dose of representation as a teenager largely came from Black US sitcoms such as The Fresh Prince of Bel Air and My Wife And Kids, accessed via now-defunct comedy cable TV channel Trouble!. Transatlantic productions provided me with the type of content that was unavailable in my own backyard.
THE FRESH PRINCE OF BEL-AIR -- "The Butler Did It" Episode 11 -- Pictured: (l-r) Alfonso Ribeiro as Carlton Banks, Will Smith as William 'Will' Smith, Karyn Parsons as Hilary Banks -- Photo by: Ron Tom/NBCU Photo Bank NBC via Getty Images
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The trouble was that, as much as the physical representation was wondrously refreshing and very necessary, these shows did not totally resonate with me – a Black girl from inner city London – on a cultural level.
The references were not the same; it was not the real McCoy, as it were.
So, for me, The Real McCoy’s return actually highlighted something that perhaps the corporation didn’t intend: as well as the consistent sociopolitical themes across decades, the staggering present-day absence of Black representation on television was laid bare.
And it begs the question: Why? There’s no absence of Black talent, so why aren’t these shows being regularly commissioned?
Even after the plug was pulled on the show, two spin-offs were produced: Goodness Gracious Me and The Kumars at No. 42. Both featured an almost entirely Asian cast, some of whom starred in The Real McCoy, with no permanent Black characters.
Real McCoy 2 BBC
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This has given rise to accusations that the BBC has deliberately scaled back on Black representation while fulfilling its “BAME” diversity quota with Asian – that is to say non-white – talent.
This has never been publicly addressed but I’ve heard the question raised time and time again during conversations with Black people in our safe spaces. And it’s time to have the discussion more openly, given the national conversation around the use of the acronym during this period of heightened racial tension.
The Real McCoy’s return will expose this classic show to new audiences and make old faithful viewers, like me, very happy – both worthy feats.
But there’s more work to do in terms of increasing Black on-screen representation at the BBC. So, for now, I am holding off from doing cartwheels.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-08-01--Murder Suspect Flees 12th-Floor U.S. Jail Cell Via Rope Made From Bedsheets

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Two inmates fled from a cell on the 12th floor of the Oklahoma County Jail in Oklahoma City on Friday morning via a rope they’d tied together from bedsheets.
Pablo Daniel Robledo, who faces a first-degree murder charge over an alleged gang shooting, went on the run for several hours after successfully shimmying down the makeshift escape route, reported The Oklahoman.
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Robledo, 34, whose trial is reportedly due to start on Aug 31, was detained some six miles away on Friday afternoon following a coordinated search effort involving multiple law enforcement agencies. He was taken back to the jail.
**UPDATE**
Pablo Daniel Roble, the inmate who escaped from Oklahoma County Jail early this morning, has been taken into CUSTODY!!! pic.twitter.com/FH6Z0SieA9 — Oklahoma City Police (@OKCPD) July 31, 2020
Jose Balentin Hernandez, who joined Robledo in the escape attempt, reportedly fell from the rope and broke an ankle.
Hernandez, who is accused of rape, was hospitalised for treatment.
In CUSTODY!
Oklahoma County Criminal Justice Jail escapee Pablo Robledo, who was being held on a murder charge, is back in jail.
Nice work by all of our metro law enforcement partners. pic.twitter.com/7gItkcfymZ — Oklahoma Co. Sheriff (@OkCountySheriff) July 31, 2020


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-08-02--EastEnders' Jake Wood Reveals How Christmas Reveal Of Max And Stacey's Affair Almost Didn't Happen

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The reveal of Max and Stacey’s affair to the whole Branning family on Christmas Day is one of EastEnders’ most iconic episodes ever – but it almost didn’t happen.
Actor Jake Wood has revealed how bosses had originally planned to end the characters’ tryst months before the plot eventually came to a head in 2007.
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Speaking on EastEnders: Secrets From The Square, Jake – who plays Max – told host Stacey Dooley: “I remember that the Max and Stacey affair was originally going to be shorter. I think it was originally going to be six months. And they changed it.
The EastEnders 2007 Christmas special was watched by over 14 million BBC
“They extended it, because I think they realised they wanted it to be the Christmas storyline.
“Obviously, it really paid off,” he added.
The Christmas 2007 episode – which is also set to be repeated this week – saw Lauren Branning play secret footage of Max and Stacey together as the family sat down to watch a DVD after lunch, revealing their affair to Max’s wife Tanya and his son Bradley, who was married to Stacey.
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Reflecting on the scenes, which attracted over 14 million viewers, Jake said: “All the family is there! Awful, isn’t it? Even now, it makes me feel a bit uncomfortable watching it.
“I remember we shot it quite a few times, and the lovely thing about that was the director just let it play out. He wasn’t telling anyone what shots he was getting, so everyone was really in that moment.”
Jake Wood and Scott Maslen appear on Monday's Secrets From The Square BBC/Kieron McCarron
EastEnders is currently showing Secrets Of The Square featuring behind-the-scenes interviews with the cast, along with a series of iconic episodes from the soap’s vault, in place of new instalments.
The show fell off the air for the first time in its 35-year history last month when it ran out of episodes that were recorded before the coronavirus pandemic shut down production.
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Filming has since resumed, with EastEnders set to return to screens in the autumn.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-08-02--Wilford Brimley, Star Of Cocoon And The Natural, Dies Aged 85

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US actor Wilford Brimley has died at the age of 85.
He was best known for starring in a range of films, including Cocoon, The Natural and The Firm.
Wilford’s manager Lynda Bensky, said he died on Saturday in hospital in Utah, in the US. He had several medical ailments, she said.
Wilford Brimley Bryan Bedder via Getty Images
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“Wilford Brimley was a man you could trust,” she said in a statement.
“He said what he meant and he meant what he said. He had a tough exterior and a tender heart. I’m sad that I will no longer get to hear my friend’s wonderful stories. He was one of a kind.”
Wilford starred in 1985 film Cocoon and a later sequel, in which he was part of a group of older people who discover an alien pod that rejuvenates them.
The 1985 Ron Howard film won two Oscars, including a supporting actor honour for Don Ameche.
Wilford with Hume Cronyn and Don Ameche in Cocoon Mondadori Portfolio via Getty Images
Wilford also played grizzled baseball manager in The Natural opposite Robert Redford’s bad-luck phenomenon. He also worked with Robert in Brubaker and The Electric Horseman.
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He was also known for his Quaker Oats adverts during the 1990s.
Wilford began his film career as a stunt rider, working his way up the ranks to become a star in his own right.
His other credits include 1993’s John Grisham adaptation The Firm, in which he starred opposite Tom Cruise, 1995′s Last of the Dogmen and 1980s prime-time series Our House, while he also had a recurring role as a blacksmith on The Waltons.
Wilford played Gus Witherspoon in Our House NBC via Getty Images
Wilford was also a jazz vocalist, making albums including This Time The Dream’s On Me and Wilford Brimley with the Jeff Hamilton Trio.
He is survived by his wife Beverly and three sons.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-08-02--Executive Producer Of Ellen DeGeneres Show Denies Cancellation Rumours

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An executive producer of The Ellen DeGeneres Show has denied rumours that the long-running show is facing cancellation after employees alleged a toxic work culture.
“Nobody is going off the air,” Andy Lassner, who has co-produced the daytime talk show since 2003, said on Twitter this week after one of his followers suggested that the Ellen show could be axed.
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Earlier, Lassner joked in a tweet that he hoped the year would “turn around and start getting better” but that 2020 had other plans — alluding to the scrutiny the show has faced since misconduct allegations surfaced last month.
Me: I really think 2020 is gonna turn around and start getting better
2020: Lol, I’m gonna make your bed the epicenter — andy lassner (@andylassner) July 30, 2020
Several workers told BuzzFeed that they endured racism, fear and intimidation while working on the show.
Following the allegations, Lassner and the programme’s two other executive producers — Ed Glavin and Mary Connelly — said in a statement that they were “heartbroken and sorry to learn that even one person in our production family has had a negative experience.”
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Glavin, who was singled out in the employees’ allegations, is reportedly expected to exit the show.
From left: Ed Glavin, Andy Lassner and Mary Connelly. Christopher Polk via Getty Images
The Hollywood Reporter said this week that DeGeneres addressed the criticism and apologised to her staff in a letter.
“On day one of our show, I told everyone in our first meeting that ‘The Ellen DeGeneres Show’ would be a place of happiness ― no one would ever raise their voice, and everyone would be treated with respect,” DeGeneres wrote. “Obviously, something changed, and I am disappointed to learn that this has not been the case. And for that, I am sorry. Anyone who knows me knows it’s the opposite of what I believe and what I hoped for our show.”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-08-02--Adele Pays Tribute To Beyoncé As She Shares Photo Of Her Watching New Visual Album: 'Thank You Queen

Adele Pays Tribute To Beyoncé As She Shares Photo Of Her Watching New Visual Album: 'Thank You Queen'

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The Hello singer is one of Beyoncé’s biggest fans and shared a photo of herself watching the Disney+ film.
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Adele, who has been more active on social media in recent months, was seen posing in front of her TV, which was paused on a moment from the Already video.
She was also sporting a top that looked to be made from the same print Beyoncé and her dancers were wearing in the film.
Posting on Instagram, Adele wrote: “Thank you Queen for always making us all feel so loved through your art.”
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Black Is King – which was released on Disney+ on Friday – was written, directed and executive produced by Beyoncé and is based on the music of her album The Lion King: The Gift.
The soundtrack was released last year in conjunction with the re-make of the animated Disney classic, in which she voiced Nala.
With the visual album, Beyoncé said she had wanted “to present elements of Black history and African tradition, with a modern twist and a universal message, and what it truly means to find your self-identity and build a legacy”.
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Adele and Beyoncé pictured in 2013 Christopher Polk via Getty Images
In 2017, Adele memorably broke her Grammy award in half to share with Beyoncé, after her album 25 won Album Of The Year ahead of Beyoncé’s “monumental” Lemonade.
She said on stage: “I can’t possibly accept this award. I’m very humbled and very grateful and gracious but my artist of my life is Beyoncé. And this album to me, the Lemonade album, is just so monumental.
“We all got to see another side to you that you don’t always let us see, and we appreciate that.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-08-02--Donald Trump's Tweet About Joe Biden Making Jobs 'Disappear' Raises More Than A Few Eyebrows

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Donald Trump has claimed “jobs will disappear” if he loses the presidential election to Joe Biden, despite overseeing one of the worst periods of unemployment in US history.
The president made the remark in a tweet on Saturday night in which he also claimed his Democratic rival would cause the markets to “CRASH”.
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“Biden to raise taxes by 3 Trillion Dollars.” Actually, it will be much more than that, and much of it on nonsense. Markets and your 401k’s will CRASH. Jobs will disappear! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 1, 2020
More than 30 million Americans were receiving unemployment checks in the week ending July 11 and in March US stock markets saw their biggest drops on record – all on Trump’s watch.
The response to Trump’s tweet was one of disbelief.
You already made the jobs disappear, sweetie. pic.twitter.com/AqXPev5Xc7 — Jedi, Interrupted 🏳🌈 (@JediCounselor) August 1, 2020
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"Jobs will disappear," says the guy who wiped out all of the job gains since the Great Recession. — Paul 👻 (@pablo_honey1) August 1, 2020
Trump is trailing in the polls to Biden, and his tweets lately have taken an increasingly outlandish turn as his presidency is upended by the coronavirus crisis.
One person in the US died about every minute from Covid-19 on Wednesday as the national death toll surpassed 150,000, the highest in the world.
Trump has already stated that he might not accept the result of the election if he loses and he has singled out mail-in voting which he is targeting with the very same kind of disinformation US authorities have warned foreign adversaries could use to foment doubt in the voting process.
RIGGED 2020 ELECTION: MILLIONS OF MAIL-IN BALLOTS WILL BE PRINTED BY FOREIGN COUNTRIES, AND OTHERS. IT WILL BE THE SCANDAL OF OUR TIMES! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 22, 2020
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thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-08-02--Katie Price Denies Engagement To Carl Woods After Telling Fans He Had Proposed: 'Just Comedy Fun'

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Katie Price has denied she is engaged to boyfriend Carl Woods after telling fans he had proposed.
On Saturday night, the reality star had her followers believing she’d been surprised by former Love Island contestant during their holiday in Turkey.
Posting a video celebrating with friends who had just got engaged, Katie claimed Carl had also proposed, writing: “Omg @carljwoods just proposed to me I said yes same time as @paulisthejoker proposed to @lorscal_phibrows and she said yes.”
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However, Katie has now insisted that she was joking with her comments.
Posting on her Instagram Story, Katie wrote: “Last night fun with @paulisthejoker not really engaged just comedy fun.”
Katie began dating Carl – who appeared on the second series of Love Island in 2016 – earlier this year.
The pair are currently on holiday with Katie’s two children from her first marriage to Peter Andre, Junior and Princess.
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Katie has also been married to Alex Reid and Kieran Hayler, who she also has two children with.
While she and Carl are not engaged, Katie did make a public commitment to him on Saturday, telling her followers she had bought a new phone so she could no longer be contacted by ex boyfriends.
She wrote: “I ask that I don’t want any guys to DM me and any guys I knew in the past including ex boyfriends not to try and contact me again.
“Have respect that @CarlJWoods has all my energy, time, love and soul forever and I won’t reply to any form of contact again.”
The pair have also set up their own joint Instagram account to share pictures of their romance, with the handle @adventuresofkatieandcarl.
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Earlier this week, Katie revealed that she had broken both her feet during a trip to an amusement park.
She has been told she will not be able to walk for three to six months after breaking her ankles and heels after jumping from a wall.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-08-02--PM 'Considering London Lockdown' In Event Of Second Wave Of Coronavirus Infections

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Boris Johnson is mulling lockdown-like conditions for London and asking the elderly to shield once again as part of plans for avoiding a second national lockdown, according to reports.
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The PM has ordered preparations to be made should there be a significant rise in the number of new coronavirus infections, The Sunday Telegraph and The Sunday Times said
The claims come after Johnson was forced to announce a slow down of the lockdown easing on Friday, with planned relaxations for the leisure and beauty sectors delayed after a rise in Covid-19 cases was recorded, with prevalence in the community thought to be rising for the first time since May.
The Times reported the Conservative Party leader held a “war game” session with chancellor Rishi Sunak on Wednesday to run through possible options for averting another nationwide lockdown that could stall any potential economic recovery.
Under the proposals, a greater number of people would be asked to take part in the shielding programme, based on their age or particular risk factors that have been identified since March, said the Telegraph.
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It could even see those aged between 50 and 70 given “personalised risk ratings”, said the Times, in a move that would add to the 2.2 million who were deemed most vulnerable and asked to shield themselves from society during the spring peak.
The advice was only lifted on Saturday for those in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland, and remains in place until August 16 for those shielding in Wales, PA Media reports.
PA
Other ideas mooted should the R-rate escalate in the capital include restricting travel beyond the M25 and putting a stop to staying at other people’s houses – similar to policies implemented in local lockdowns imposed in Leicester and parts of the north-west of England in recent days.
But Downing Street sources distanced themselves from the detail in the reports, calling them “speculative”.
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And on Sunday morning, housing secretary Robert Jenrick when asked about whether new age-related measures were likely, told Times Radio: “This is just speculation.
“You would expect the Government to be considering all of the range of options that might be available.
“That’s not something that is being actively considered.”
Meanwhile, former England midfielder Paul Scholes has been accused of holding a party at his Oldham home to celebrate his son’s 21st on the same day lockdown measures were reimposed across parts of England’s north-west.
The Sun cited phone footage as showing revellers ignoring social distancing “as they drank and danced” at the seven-hour party, with the paper citing Tory MP Andrew Bridgen criticising Scholes for “reckless behaviour”. Greater Manchester Police have been approached for comment over the alleged incident.
Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham said people in his area “on the whole” had been brilliant “and I reject efforts to blame some for breaking lockdown rules”.
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Writing in the Sunday Mirror, Burnham called on the government to ensure people in low-paid, insecure jobs are financially supported if they have to self-isolate due to coronavirus.
He wrote: “We shouldn’t spend taxpayers’ money on subsidising meals out but not support the low-paid to take time off work to protect their health.”
On top of the alleged lockdown avoidance preparations, experts have speculated that ministers might have to order the closure of pubs, which were permitted to start serving again on July 4, if schools are to reopen fully in September.
Professor Graham Medley, a member of the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage), said earlier a “trade off” could be required if the Prime Minister’s pledge is to be met.
His comments followed chief medical officer professor Chris Whitty’s remarks that the country was “near the limit” for opening up society following the coronavirus lockdown.
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Meanwhile, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) was forced to deny that it had abandoned its pledge to regularly test care home residents through the summer following a leaked memo from professor Jane Cummings, the government’s adult social care testing director.
The Tory administration has come in for criticism for failing to do more to prevent Covid-19 infections from reaching care homes, where some of the country’s most vulnerable population reside, during the initial spring peak.
According to the Times, prof Cummings wrote to local authority leaders to inform them that “previously advised timelines for rolling out regular testing in care homes” were being altered because of “unexpected delays”.
Regular testing of residents and staff was meant to have started on July 6 but will now be pushed back until September 7 for older people and those with dementia, PA news agency understands.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-08-02--'I Didn’t Study It In Any Depth': 7 Times The Grenfell Inquiry Has Made Jaws Drop

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The Grenfell inquiry wrapped up this week for the summer recess after providing weeks of yet more incredible revelations.
Whereas the first part of the inquiry last year examined the harrowing details of the night itself, since it reconvened in January, this year’s instalment has heard often shocking details about the corporate decisions that lead to the blaze being so deadly.
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Ignored emails, architects who weren’t aware of rules and a general trend of passing the buck were all major themes as the refurbishment of the tower from 2016 to 2016 was dissected.
It was of course this refurbishment that resulted in the tower being clad in a combustible material that burned quickly and fiercely on the night of the disaster.
Here are seven key revelations that the second part of the inquiry has brought to light so far.
Lead fire consultant ‘ignored’ cladding email
A senior fire consultant who worked on the refurbishment ignored emails that detailed the type of cladding to be used on Grenfell Tower, the inquiry heard on July 9.
Terry Ashton, of fire engineering firm Exova, was provided architectural drawings of the planned original zinc cladding in September 2014 and was asked for his advice about the use of fire-stopping measures in the system.
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By this time the new contractor Rydon had not kept Exova on as a “fully paid-up member of the design team” and Ashton said his advice was given on an “ad hoc” basis, adding he did not feel obliged to “give these drawings much attention”.
Ashton said he offered his advice despite not knowing what kind of insulation was being proposed and without knowing if the architects even planned on using the tested method.
Senior fire consultant Terry Ashton giving evidence. PA Media
However, the same day he had been sent an email with an attachment specifying the designer’s intention to use CelotexRs5000 insulation, a combustible material.
Ashton failed to open the attachment before offering his advice, and he denied inquiry lawyer lawyer Kate Grange QC’s suggestion it was “patently clear that you needed to open that attachment and then respond”.
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He said: “I didn’t give these drawings much attention. I just wanted to know in broad terms what they were doing.”
Grenfell architect couldn’t recall if he knew high rise fire rules
The lead architect on the refurbishment of Grenfell Tower said he “can’t recall” whether he knew there were different fire regulations for high-rise buildings, the inquiry heard back in March.
Bruce Sounes was in charge of the day-to-day management of the redesign of the 24-storey north Kensington block.
Giving evidence, the associate at Studio E architects was shown a diagram of different building classifications relating to blocks over 18 metres tall.
Bruce Sounes, the chief architect on the refurbishment of the tower. PA Media
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Sounes was asked by Kate Grange QC, counsel to the inquiry: “Were you aware that there might be different rules that applied to buildings over 18 metres?”
He replied: “No I was aware that they may exist, but I did not refer to [the document] at the time.
He added: “I can’t recall if I was aware of that.”
When asked whether he read the government guidelines on building and fire regulations – also known as approved document B – during the Grenfell project, Sounes said: “I referred to it on occasion but I certainly didn’t read it from start to finish.
“Because it’s so wide ranging, an architect will find themselves referring to specific sections to try and understand whether they are meeting their requirements.”
The ‘no guns, knives or hammers’ security guidance
The way the inquiry itself was conducted came under fire earlier this month when it emerged security guidelines stated people should not bring “knives, replica guns, hammers or wrenches” to hearings, and searched visitors on arrival.
This was in stark contrast to the Infected Blood Inquiry, another high profile UK public inquiry where the majority of participants are white and no such measures were in place, HuffPost UK exclusively revealed.
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ASSOCIATED PRESS
But at the Grenfell hearings, where many of those impacted are from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds (BAME), far tougher security checks are in place.
Bag searches are carried out on entry and security guidance includes a detailed section on “weapons” and other items that cannot be brought into the building.
Yvette Williams, of the Justice4Grenfell campaign group, said the differences were indicative of racial stereotyping of BAME and working class people presenting a greater risk.
A conversation confirming the type of cladding to be used on Grenfell Tower ‘didn’t take place’
An apparent telephone conversation during which a senior fire consultant allegedly approved the flammable materials used on Grenfell Tower “didn’t take place”, the inquiry into the disaster has heard.
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Terry Ashton was said to have provided “fairly emphatic confirmation” in September 2014 that it was acceptable to encase the block in aluminium composite material (ACM) and combustible Celotex insulation, according to the oral evidence of architect Neil Crawford of project architects Studio E.
But Ashton said the call “didn’t take place as far as I was concerned” and said he only learned which materials had been used after the fire had torn through the building in June 2017 and killed 72 people.
He told the inquiry on July 9: “I don’t recall any conversation with Neil Crawford. Given that it is an important subject I would have expected him to confirm by email that I agreed that these materials were acceptable.
“To rely on an alleged telephone conversation is not very reliable.”
Cladding inspector ‘failed to read building documents in any depth’
The inspector of Grenfell Tower’s cladding system thought it was “a very good install” despite failing to read the necessary building literature “in any depth”, the inquiry into the fire heard on Thursday.
Daniel Osgood, of main design and build contractor Rydon, was tasked with overseeing how well the materials had been fixed onto the concrete exterior of the tower block.
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He was sent an email by a colleague with links to building documents in April 2015, urging him to “please pay particular attention to the firebreak spec and insulation guide to ensure that they install correctly before any building control inspection”.
The colleague, contracts manager Simon Lawrence, added: “I’m sure it’ll take a few days or so to get to grips with it so happy reading.”
Daniel Osgood who was tasked with overseeing how well the materials had been fixed onto the concrete exterior of the tower block. PA Media
But Osgood admitted he did not “fully digest” the documents in his oral evidence to the inquiry on Thursday.
Inquiry lawyer Kate Grange QC brought up two documents, one containing information on fire-stopping cavity barriers and one with guidelines on installing the insulation, which are believed to be the files Osgood was sent.
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She asked him: “Did you pay any particular attention to this guide when you were looking at cavity barriers and whether they were installed correctly on site?”
Osgood said: “I don’t remember doing that.
“I do recall seeing it but I didn’t study it in any depth.”
Grenfell contractors ‘more concerned about cost than fire safety’
Grenfell Tower contractors appeared more concerned about “cost and delay” than fire safety, the inquiry into the disaster heard.
During discussions about installing cavity barriers designed to stop flames in March 2015, it was noted that upgrading from the minimum required standard of 30 minutes’ fire-resistance to 120 minutes’ would cost an extra £12,000, the inquiry heard on Tuesday.
In an email chain between external wall subcontractor Harley Facades, lead contractor Rydon and architects Studio E, Rydon contracts manager Simon Lawrence writes: “Harley via their supply chain are questioning the rating of the cladding firebreaks.
“Apparently by going to 2hrs as we discussed has a cost increase of around £12k.”
The Grenfell Tower in London pictured in October of last year. ASSOCIATED PRESS
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Studio E design lead Neil Crawford agreed with the inquiry’s chief lawyer, Richard Millett QC, that there was pressure on site to avoid having to recommend the upgraded cavity barriers.
Millett asked him: “And the main concern was cost and delay as opposed to fire safety?”
Crawford, who led the architects’ design team but is not a registered architect, replied: “I can’t speak on behalf of the other participants in that conversation but you might read that into what they’ve written, yes.”
Corporate witnesses were protected from prosecution
The only reason much of the evidence in the inquiry was heard at all was because witnesses from firms being grilled were guaranteed they will not face prosecution for anything they say, after some threatened to stay silent unless the legal threat of self-incrimination was removed.
Survivors of the disaster reacted with anger in February, after attorney general Suella Braverman announced she had accepted the request from staff involved in refurbishing the high-rise block with flammable materials.
The move covered oral evidence from individual witnesses only. It does not mean companies or individuals cannot be prosecuted.
Survivors and victims group Grenfell United they will “not settle for anything less” than criminal prosecutions over the fire and that “truth at the inquiry must not come at the expense of justice and prosecutions”.
They added: “Grenfell was a tragedy but it was not an accident.
“The people responsible for knowingly encasing our families in a death trap and the people that allowed them to do it must face the full force of the law.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-08-02--Senior Tory MP 'Arrested On Suspicion Of Rape'

Brian Bumby via Getty Images
A Conservative MP has been arrested after being accused of rape, sexual assault and coercive control, according to reports.
The ex-minister, who has not been named, is alleged to have assaulted a woman and forced her to have sex, The Sunday Times and Mail on Sunday reported.
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The Metropolitan Police said it received allegations on Friday of sexual offences and assault relating to four separate incidents at addresses in London, between July last year and January this year.
A spokesman for the Met said: “The Met has launched an investigation into the allegations.”
A man was arrested on Saturday on suspicion of rape and was taken into custody at an east London police station, the force added.
He has been released on bail to a date in mid-August.
The papers said the allegations were raised with Tory chief whip Mark Spencer, and the complainant also spoke to him – but no action was taken.
The PA news agency understands Spencer advised her to make a formal complaint to the authorities who would be able to investigate the claims.
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A spokesman for Spencer said: “The Chief Whip takes all allegations of harassment and abuse extremely seriously and has strongly encouraged anybody who has approached him to contact the appropriate authorities, including Parliament’s Independent Complaints and Grievance Scheme, which can formally carry out independent and confidential investigations.”
Robert Jenrick, asked on Times Radio whether Parliament was a “safe space” for young women to work following the MP rape allegations, said: “It needs to be.
“There has clearly been some very difficult allegations and cases in recent years.
“We need to make sure, like any other workplace, it is one that’s fit for everybody where everybody feels safe and comfortable working, and when allegations are raised they are treated with the seriousness they deserve.”
Asked whether he personally wanted to see the Tory whip removed from the MP under police investigation, Mr Jenrick said: “We need to take allegations of this nature very seriously and I’m confident that the party is and will do. “
A Conservative Party spokesman said: “We take all allegations of this nature extremely seriously. As this matter is now in the hands of the police it would be inappropriate to comment further.”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-08-02--How To Tie-Dye In A Small Space

How To Tie-Dye In A Small Space

To paraphrase a quote from “Hamilton,” tie-dye isn’t a moment ― it’s a movement. The resurgent trend has made a strong showing the past few summers, but in 2020 particularly, as tie-dye enthusiasts have made the most of their time at home during the pandemic.
All over social media, people with gardens seem to have dyed their entire wardrobes with ease and a frustrating amount of fresh air. For city dwellers, tie-dyeing is a bit more complicated. But, as it turns out, very doable.
Marisa Morrison Stein has built a career out of crafting. The Neon Tea Party, which she started as a lifestyle blog in 2016, has grown into a mecca for all things artistic, including tutorials, a supply shop, and, this year, a four-week virtual crafting camp. Stein often shares these projects from her New York City apartment and fire escape, including, of course, tie-dye.
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Stein shared her tips with HuffPost for tie-dyeing in a small space ― no garden required.
Split up the job
Once you have your kit, tie-dyeing begins with choosing your pieces, wetting them and tying them up with rubber bands (Stein has an entire section on her website devoted to tutorials for different methods and styles).
“You can break up the process into the clean half and the messy half,” Stein said. “You need a flat surface for tying up your pieces, so I usually use my kitchen table or even coffee table to do that since it’s just wet fabric, and then I dye in the tub.”
Stein stressed that no matter the surface, it’s always important to cover your workspace with either a plastic tablecloth, a cut-open trash bag or a tarp.
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Size matters
As a warning, tie-dyeing can be a bit addictive, but in a small space it’s important to remember what is and is not realistic. Things like shirts, pillowcases and sweats are great ― bedsheets may not be. “You need enough space to lay out the item you’re drying, so keep that in mind,” Stein said.
Additional tools to have on hand
Aside from the obvious supplies, there are few other backups to have at the ready. While the idea of a tie-dyed tub sounds kind of fun, “sounds” is the operative word. Stein recommends keeping a bleach-based cleaning spray on hand for potential spills and splashes, wearing clothing you won’t mind getting stained, and always wearing plastic gloves. She also recommends using a tie-dye rack, which catches leftover dye as you work.
“A rack gives you some more flexibility if you want to dye, say, on the kitchen counter,” she said.
Take to the tub
Once your items are dyed, Stein recommends letting them set in either a plastic bag or in plastic wrap for between eight and 24 hours. “I recommend keeping them in the tub,” she said, adding that if she needs to use the shower (for actual showering), she just leaves them in there ― it’s OK if they get wet, since they’re wrapped up in airtight plastic.
Have a washing plan
After your dye has set for the instructed number of hours, you’re ready to rinse your items in warm water in the bath until the water runs clear ― or as close to clear as possible. Then you throw your items in the wash.
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“I recommend immediately washing with warm water and a little detergent and then drying, keeping like colours together if possible,” Stein said. “If you’re dyeing something a bit more special and want the colour to be as vibrant as possible, you can hand wash and set up a drying rack as it’s better for the piece to lay flat.” This is to prevent dye from bleeding ― but when that’s not an option for space, Stein has another way.
“I don’t necessarily recommend this, but I do it because I don’t have a drying rack,” Stein said. “I set up a clothesline in my shower using twine, so I always have it attached between my shower head and curtain and use clothespins to hang the pieces. You’ll still have subtle-coloured dye dripping into the white space, so it’s best to lay it flat, but it’s an option.”
Remember what you’re working with
Stein recommends avoiding bucket dyeing and instead sticking to squeeze bottles, which allow more precision, and to use a scoop to transfer powder dye neatly into the bottle. “If the powder gets loose, the moment any moisture touches it it will turn to liquid dye on your surface, so be really careful when creating your dye liquid,” she said.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-08-02--Spooks: Where Are The Cast Now?

Spooks: Where Are The Cast Now?

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It’s been nearly nine years since the spies of MI5 solved their final case on the BBC drama Spooks.
The show was one of the most popular and enduring dramas of the 00s, running for ten series after it debuted in 2002.
Recent months have seen Spooks enjoy a resurgence after all of the series were uploaded to the BBC iPlayer at the start of the UK’s lockdown, introducing it to a whole new generation of viewers, as well as giving its original fanbase the chance to catch it again.
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With that in mind, we checked in on all of the fictional MI5 agents to see what the actors behind them have been up to since leaving their undercover lives behind...
Matthew Macfadyen as Tom Quinn (Series 1-3, 10)
BBC/Shutterstock
Shortly after his role on Spooks came to an end, Matthew made the jump to the big screen, starring as Mr. Darcy in Joe Wright’s Pride & Prejudice in 2005.
From there, he played Daniel in 2007’s Death At A Funeral, portrayed John Birt in 2008 film Frost/Nixon and appeared as Stiva in 2012’s Anna Karenina. Other film roles include The Three Musketeers, Robin Hood and The Current War.
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TV wise, Matthew reunited on screen with former Spooks co-star Keeley Hawes in Ashes To Ashes in 2007 – two years after the pair married in real life. They remain together to this day and have two children.
In 2010, he won a TV Bafta for Best Supporting Actor for his role in BBC drama Criminal Justice. After making a cameo appearance in the final episode of Spooks in 2011, Matthew had a lead role in BBC One’s period drama Ripper Street from 2012 to 2016 and appeared in two US TV movies.
Most recently, he played Major Charles Ingram in ITV’s Quiz, a dramatisation of the Who Wants To Be A Millionaire? coughing scandal, while he also appears as Tom Wambsgans in the critically acclaimed HBO series Succession.
David Oyelowo as Danny Hunter (Series 1-3)
BBC/Shutterstock
Since David left his role as Danny at the end of the third series, he’s gone on to have a massive film career.
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He won huge critical acclaim for his portrayal of Martin Luther King Jr in 2014’s Selma, which saw him win the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture and Black Reel Award for Best Actor, as well as earning Golden Globe and Critics’ Choice nominations. In the same year, David also gave an acclaimed performance in HBO film Nightingale, for which he picked up a Critics’ Choice Television Award and Black Reel Award for Best Actor.
David also took the lead role in 2016’s A United Kingdom, and starred in Queen of Katwe in the same year.
His other film credits include Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011), Lincoln (2012), Jack Reacher (2012), The Butler (2013) and Gringo (2018).
David has also continued to make appearances on the small screen too, playing Javert in the BBC’s 2018 adaptation of Les Miserables and Edward in Channel 4’s 2013 drama Complicit, as well as providing the voice of Scar in The Lion Guard animated series and Alexsandr Kallus in Star Wars Rebels.
Keeley Hawes as Zoe Reynolds (Series 1-3)
BBC/Shutterstock
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Keeley has taken on a wide range of roles since her character absconded after being charged with conspiracy to murder.
In one of her first post-Spooks roles, she appeared in a modern reimagining of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, before having a guest role in two episodes of The Vicar Of Dibley in 2006.
From there, Keeley took the lead role in Life On Mars spin-off Ashes To Ashes as DI Alex Drake, before playing another cop in 2010 ITV drama, Identity.
Four years later, she was the main antagonist in the second series of Line Of Duty, with her character Lindsay Denton also returning for the third season in 2016.
Arguably her most famous role came in another of Jed Mercurio’s series, Bodyguard, where she played home secretary Julia Montague in 2018.
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Keeley also had a main role in the second series of BBC drama The Missing, and until 2019, played Louisa Durrell in The Durrells.
Other major roles include Mrs Wilson, Upstairs Downstairs and The Hollow Crown.
Peter Firth as Sir Harry Pearce (Series 1-10)
BBC/Shutterstock/ITV
After Spooks finished on TV in 2011, Peter reprised his role as Harry in the 2015 spin-off film Spooks: The Greater Good, which starred Game Of Thrones’ Kit Harington.
The same year saw him play Jacob Marley in the BBC’s Dickensian, before he then went on to appear as the Duke Of Cumberland in ITV’s Victoria.
Other roles have included military drama Mayday, and ITV’s Undeniable, while Peter most recently appeared on TV in a 2018 episode of Sky One drama Strike Back: Retribution.
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Hugh Simon as Malcolm Wynn-Jones (Series 1-10)
BBC
Like Peter Frith, Hugh also reprised his role as Malcolm in the Spooks film in 2015, having played Dr Holland in the second series of Channel 4’s period drama The Mill in 2014.
He has also made guest appearances in shows like Doctors, Vera, Endeavour and Last Tango in Halifax, and has starred alongside Rowan Atkinson as Dr Paul in ITV’s Maigret TV films.
Most recently, Hugh popped up in two episodes of Victoria in 2019 as Colonel Sibthrope, as well as Sky One sitcom Brassic and was most recently seen at the start of the 2020 in an episode of The Trial Of Christine Keeler.
Jenny Agutter as Tessa Phillips (Series 1-2)
BBC/Shutterstock
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Jenny was already a celebrated actor when she joined the cast of Spooks, but these days she is arguably best known for playing Sister Julienne in Call The Midwife since 2012.
She’s also appeared in ITV drama series Monday Monday, and the BBC’s The Invisables and The Alan Clark Diaries, as well as making guest appearances in the likes of Agatha Christie’s Marple, New Tricks and Midsomer Murders.
Jenny has also appeared in two Marvel films, playing Councilwoman Hawley in 2012’s The Avengers and 2014’s Captain America: The Winter Soldier.
Rory MacGregor as Colin Wells (Series 1-5)
BBC
After wrapping up his role as Colin, Rory has had a number of guest roles in the likes of Casualty, New Tricks, Primeval and Ashes To Ashes.
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According to IMDb, his last credited TV role was in 2011, when he appeared in an episode of Doctors.
Lisa Faulkner as Helen Flynn (Series 1)
BBC/Shutterstock/ITV
Lisa’s role in Spooks was short-lived to say the least, with her character Helen memorably killed off via a deep fat fryer 7in the second episode of the first series.
From there, she appeared in two series of Murder In Suburbia as Det. Sgt. Emma Scribbins from 2004 to 2005, before playing Laura Scammell in New Street Law from 2006 to 2007.
But an appearance on Celebrity Masterchef in 2010 changed the course of Lisa’s career and personal life.
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After winning the series, Lisa became closely associated with food, hosting Real Food Family Cook Off and What’s Cooking, as well as making frequent appearances in the This Morning kitchen.
She also began a relationship with Masterchef judge John Torode, and the couple are now married, hosting John And Lisa’s Weekend Kitchen on ITV.
Away from the cookery world, Lisa played a central role in Max Branning’s Walford revenge storyline on EastEnders in 2017, playing Fi Browning – the daughter of classic villain James Willmott Brown.
Shauna Macdonald as Sam Buxton (Series 2-3)
BBC/Shutterstock
Shauna’s first big role after leaving Spooks was in the 2005 horror film The Descent, in which she played Sarah Carter.
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Her other film roles include 2013’s Filth and 2016’s The Correspondence, while she also had a minor role as a pilot in Star Wars: The Last Jedi in 2017.
On TV, Shauna has popped up in the likes of Ripper Street and Bonekickers, and had main roles in BBC drama The Cry as Dr Wallace and In Plain Sight as Agnes Muncie. She also played Georgie in BBC sitcom Hold The Sunset, and more recently appeared in an episode of ITV’s Liar as Mary Earlham and BBC drama The Nest as Sheena Galvin.
Since 2015, she has also voiced Professor Squawkencluck in animated series Danger Mouse, while Shauna has also had various theatre roles and acted on many Radio 4 plays.
Nicola Walker as Ruth Evershed (Series 2-5, 8-10)
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Nicola has been a main-stay on British TV since her second stint on Spooks came to an end.
These days, she is probably best known for playing Gillian Greenwood on Last Tango In Halifax since 2012, which has seen her nominated for a TV Bafta for Best Supporting Actress.
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She also plays DCI Cassie Stuart in ITV crime series Unforgotten, and lawyer Hannah Stern in the BBC’s family drama The Split.
Nicola has also appeared in dramas including 2013’s Prisoners’ Wives and Heading Out, 2014’s Babylon, 2015’s River, and 2018 mini series Collateral, as well as guest roles on shows including New Tricks, Inside No 9 and Scott And Bailey.
Rupert Penry Jones as Adam Carter (Series 3-7)
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Rupert’s exit from Spooks came as a shock to many fans when his character was killed off in the seventh series.
From there, Rupert starred in a BBC adaptation of John Buchan novel The 39 Steps, playing Richard Hannay and from 2009 to 2013, he had a lead role as DI Joseph Chandler in Whitechapel, and from 2011 to 2014, he played Clive Reader in Silk. His most recent TV credit came in 2018, when he played Samuel Blake in Sky’s crime series Stan Lee’s Lucky Man.
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Rupert also made the leap to the US, appearing as Mr Quinlan in the American horror series The Strain and Lord Thomas Hamilton in historical adventure series Black Sails.
His film credits include 2014’s A Little Chaos, 2017’s Pegasus Bridge and 2020’s Miss Fisher And The Crypt Of Tears.
Olga Sosnovska as Fiona Carter (Series 3-4)
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Two years after her time on the show came to an end, Olga had a minor role as a character called Debbie in Ocean’s 13. Also in 2007, she starred in an episode of US drama Criminal Minds.
In 2011, Olga appeared in four episodes of dark US comedy Weeds as Zoya, while her most recent credited screen role was in 2014, when she had a guest role as Roxanna in HBO series The Leftovers.
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Raza Jaffrey as Zafar Younis (Series 3-6)
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Fans of BBC drama Mistresses may also know Raza for playing Hari during the first two series.
After leaving in 2009, he had a minor role as a butler in Sex And The City 2 the following year, which marked the start of his US career.
From there, he played Dec Sundaram in 2012 US TV series Smash, appeared in three episodes of Once Upon A Time In Wonderland in 2014 and had a recurring role in Sherlock Holmes drama Elementary.
The same year, Raza had a recurring part in Homeland, playing Aasar Khan in seven episodes, before he landed a main role as Neal Hudson on the CBS TV medical drama Code Black.
More recently, he’s starred in the Lost In Space reboot and NBC’s The Enemy Within, as well as starring alongside Blake Lively and Jude Law in 2020 film The Rhythm Section.
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In real life, Raza married Spooks co-star Miranda Raison shortly after he left the show in 2007, but they divorced two years later. He is now married to another former Spooks star Lara Pulver, although the couple never worked on the show together.
Miranda Raison as Jo Portman (Series 4-8)
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Straight after Spooks, Miranda played Abbey in ITV drama Married Single Other in 2010, and the following year made appearances in Death In Paradise, Merlin and Sugartown.
In 2013, she landed her biggest role in the US to date, when she was cast as Caroline Fowlds in 24: Live Another Day, and has appeared in other American TV series including Nightflyers and Warrior. Back home, she played Sylvie in 2018 ITV drama Dark Heart after appearing in a pilot episode two years earlier.
If you have children, Miranda’s voice is also probably familiar to you, as she has voiced the character of Millie in Thomas The Tank Engine since 2013.
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Miranda’s also had a number of stage roles, including productions of Hello/Goodbye, The Winter’s Tale and Harlequinade.
Hermione Norris as Ros Myers (Series 5-8)
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Hermione was best known as Karen Marden in Cold Feet prior to joining the cast of Spooks, and reprised the role when the show returned after a 13-year hiatus in 2016 for four more series.
Hermione’s time in ITV drama Kingdom as Beatrice came to an end around the same time as her character was killed off in Spooks in 2009, and she has enjoyed a plethora of other TV roles since.
In 2011, she appeared in BBC drama Outcasts, while she starred in ITV mini-series A Mother’s Son the following year. She played Grace Carter in BBC period drama The Crimson Field in 2014, and the same year saw her star as Roanna in Kay Mellor’s In The Club, before she enjoyed a guest role in an episode of Doctor Who.
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More recently, Hermione starred in ITV mini series Innocent opposite Lee Ingleby in 2018, and portrayed antagonist Dr Vivien Lake in the most recent series of Luther in 2019.
Alex Lanipekun as Ben Kaplan (Series 6-7)
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Alex’s character was unusual in that Ben was first introduced as a journalist who later became a spy.
After Alex exited the show, he had a guest role in BBC Three series Being Human in 2010, also making appearances in Beautiful People, Death In Paradise and The Missing.
He played Steve in 2012 Comedy Central series Big Bad World, and two years later landed his first US TV role, playing James Harman in 24: Live Another Day, reuniting him with former Spooks co-star Miranda Raison.
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The same year, Alex appeared in four episodes of Homeland as Hank Bonham, while more recently he played Pandarus in the BBC and Netflix co-production Troy: Fall Of A City in 2018.
In 2019, Alex starred in Sky Atlantic drama Riviera as Raafi Al-Qadar.
Gemma Jones as Connie James (Series 6-7)
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Gemma was well-known to many prior to joining the cast of Spooks thanks to her many film and TV roles, including playing Bridget Jones’ mum in the movie franchise, and Madam Poppy Pomfrey in the Harry Potter films – both roles she reprised after leaving the BBC show.
As well as guest roles in the likes of Merlin, Death In Paradise, Last Tango In Halifax and Doc Martin, she had a regular role in ITV drama Unforgotten in 2015, appearing alongside former Spooks co-star Nicola Walker.
In 2015, Gemma won the TV Bafta for Best Supporting Actress for her role in BBC TV film Marvellous, and in 2019, she played Aunt Anne Lister in Gentleman Jack – a role she’s previously played in a 2010 TV movie, The Secret Diaries Of Miss Anne Lister.
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Gemma also played Johnny’s mum Deirdre in God’s Own Country in 2017 and appeared as Ivy in 2019 Elton John biopic Rocketman.
Most recently, Gemma appeared alongside her former Spooks co-star Hermione Norris in Cold Feet, playing her character Karen’s mum, Heather, in 2020.
Richard Armitage as Lucas North (Series 7-9)
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In 2010, Richard began appearing in Sky drama Strike Back as John Porter, and the same year saw him play Heinz Kriger in Captain America: The First Avenger.
He starred in all three films of The Hobbit series as Thorin Oakenshield, while his other film credits include Alice Through The Looking Glass, Ocean’s 8 and Pilgrimage.
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Richard has also appeared in several US TV dramas, playing Francis Dolarhyde in Hannibal and Daniel Miller in Berlin Station, while he also provided the voice for Trevor Belmont in Castlevania.
Richard’s stage credits also include Remembrance Of Things Past, The Crucible and Uncle Vanya.
Most recently, Richard appeared in the 2020 Netflix series The Stranger, in the lead role of Adam Price.
Shazad Latif as Tariq Masood (Series 8-10)
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Around the same time Spooks wrapped up, Shazad had guest roles in Fresh Meat, Black Mirror and BBC drama Silk.
In 2013, he appeared in five episodes of My Mad Fat Diary as Dr. Nick Kassar, before going on to play Clem in Channel 4 sitcom Toast Of London.
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From there, Shazad appeared in the 2015 series of BBC drama Ordinary Lies as Rick, before making the jump over to the US a year later, when he landed the role of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde in Penny Dreadful.
After the show was cancelled after one season, Shazad began playing Ash Tyler in Star Trek: Discovery, sticking with the series for two years. He appeared in British-Candanian series Departure in 2019, and provided the voice of Kylan in The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance.
Shazad’s big screen credits include The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel – where he played Kushal – and 2018’s The Commuter.
Sophia Myles as Beth Bailey (Series 9)
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Sophia only stayed with Spooks for one series, but she went on to play the character of Darcy Yyril in the Transformers film Age Of Extinction in 2014, and also appeared in BBC drama Our Zoo as Lady Katherine.
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In 2018, she played Rebecca in Sky One’s A Discovery Of Witches, while in 2020, Sophia also reprised the role of Madame de Pompadour – who she’d played in a 2006 episode of Doctor Who – for a special webcast episode.
She has also provided the voice for Operative 19 in a reboot of Gerry Anderson’s anime series Firestorm.
Max Brown as Dimitri Levendis (Series 9-10)
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Max was known to soap fans prior to joining Spooks, having appeared in the regular casts of both Hollyoaks and Crossroads, as well as his role as Edward Seymour in The Tudors.
Since the end of Spooks, Max has acted in US cop drama Beauty & The Beast, as well as having guest roles in the likes of Sleepy Hollow, You, Me And The Apocalypse and Agent Carter.
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From 2016 to 2018, Max appeared alongside Elizabeth Hurley in outrageous drama The Royals, playing King Robert, while in 2019, he appeared in the Downton Abbey film as Richard Ellis.
Lara Pulver as Erin Watts (Series 10)
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Like some of the other cast members, Lara reprised her role as Erin in the 2015 Spooks film.
Prior to that, Laura appeared in two episodes of the Sherlock as Irene Adler between 2012 and 2014, and played Clarice Orisini in the BBC’s Da Vinci’s Demons. She also appeared in a Sky dramatisation of the life of James Bond creator Ian Fleming, playing his love interest Ann O’Neill.
Most recently, Lara appeared in BBC Two’s The City And The City, and in 2020, she played Karen in US period drama The Alienist. Her other TV roles include guest roles in Quantico and Philip K. Dick’s Electric Dreams.
Lara is also a stage actor, winning the 2016 Olivier Award for Best Supporting Actress in a Musical in the West End revival of Gypsy. Her other stage credits include High Society, Chicago and Miss Saigon.
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She is also married to former Spooks star Raza Jaffrey, who played Zafar.
Geoffrey Streatfeild as Calum Reed (Series 10)
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Geoffrey only appeared in the final series of Spooks, but did reprise his role as Calum in the film four years later.
He appeared in The Thick Of It in 2012 as the “Inbetweener” junior minister in DoSac, and played Edward IV in two episodes of The Hollow Crown in 2016.
His other TV credits include The Miniaturist, Prime Suspect 1973 and Traitors.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-08-02--I'm A Trans Woman And This Is Why I Hate The Word TERF

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Every so often, a word makes the leap from the online lexicon into the everyday vernacular. It happened to “troll”, it happened to “FOMO”, and now, it’s happened to “TERF”. The acronym stands for trans exclusionary radical feminist and was popularised by Viv Smythe in 2008.
It’s become increasingly common in trans-centric spaces online, but only recently has it burst out of these isolated areas to the internet at large.
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Personally, I’ve probably seen the word as often as I have “LOL”, and I think I hate it just as much.
Recently, usage of the word has surged due to JK Rowling’s controversial comments on transgender issues. Rowling even titled one of her more inflammatory, and much debunked, blog posts ”TERF wars”.
I’ll return to Rowling later, but for now I think she’s dominated the trans conversation quite enough, because this issue is far bigger than her or how any of us feel about her views.
A lot of people who hate the word TERF consider it a slur. I must stress that I am not one of those people. Many who claim it is a slur feel it’s being used to silence them; so silenced they are able to write Guardian columns about the experience.
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When trans people and our allies try to counter that TERF is not a slur, they fall into the trap of explaining the letters. Yes, it stands for trans exclusionary radical feminist, and therefore if you are a radical feminist and you exclude trans people from your feminism, well then, you must be a TERF. However, we rarely apply this definition to our own usage. Quite simply, the word is used too frequently while meaning too little.
When we debate “TERF is a slur” by examining the word literally, what we’re trying to do is turn it from “a slur” to “not a slur’. I don’t believe TERF is either: TERF is, in fact, an anti-slur.
We see “anti-slurs” being used all the time, though they’re so common we don’t always notice them. They’re used to soften the labels or descriptors we use for hateful actions.
Dominic Cumming’s adviser Andrew Sabisky was fired earlier this year for ”controversial statements” rather than being a “eugenicist”. Donald Trump makes ”racially charged remarks” rather than being a “racist”. And if you hound trans people online with hateful rhetoric, you’re a “TERF” rather than a “transphobe”.
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There are a wide range of transphobes out there; I know, I’ve met them. Some do see the divide between trans and cis as being deeply entrenched in feminism, some are merely hateful wolves wrapped up in feminist sheep’s clothing, while others still abandon any shred of feminism whatsoever to sic their hate on a vulnerable target.
The longer we group them all together, the longer we protect them from the word “transphobe” and propagate a “both sides” argument. But not only that, we also fail to address the mistruths, false equivalence, and erasure of trans men and non-binary people in their rhetoric.
I’m not asking every trans person to correct every lie told about trans people online – god knows that would be exhausting – but we have to understand that calling someone a TERF and moving on does nothing to expose the flaws in their arguments to onlookers with no prior knowledge on trans issues.
JK Rowling herself, ironically, may actually be a TERF. Certainly, her views on transgender people are wrapped up in the definitions of “woman”, and other feminist concerns. But most of the transphobic people I deal with online do not seem to have such concerns, or indeed any concerns. They just don’t like trans people.
Even calling Rowling a TERF shifts the debate into meaningless territory. It then becomes a discussion around whether or not she is, or whether or not TERF is a slur. I don’t care. I don’t know many trans people who care.
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So stop calling everyone a TERF. There’s nothing radically feminist about anonymous Twitter trolls with usernames like @Steve81683677 tweeting blind hate. TERFs exist, and they hold seriously problematic views, but they’re a small circle inside a much larger circle in a Venn diagram labeled “transphobes”. TERF isn’t an attack; it’s a protection. Please, call them what they are.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-08-02--‘I Had Ovarian Cancer, Then Coronavirus. But I’m Still Determined To Be A Mum’

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As far back as she can remember, Sunita Thind has known she wanted to become a mum. “I’ve always had a maternal instinct and longed to have a child to share experiences with, to shower with love, and to help them succeed in the world,” says the 37-year-old, who lives in Derby with her husband, Peter.
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But Thind’s whole world – and plans for a family – were shattered in April 2016, when she was suddenly diagnosed with ovarian cancer, having shown no previous symptoms of the disease.
“I just woke up one day and literally looked pregnant,” she recalls of the cruel joke her body seemed to be playing on her. “My belly was all swollen and I was in excruciating pain and kept vomiting. It was the worst pain I have ever experienced.”
Thind was rushed into hospital, where 11 litres of fluid were removed from her abdomen, before she underwent numerous tests and scans. When the doctors realised it was cancer, they removed her left ovary, appendix and fallopian tube.
“They wanted to do a full hysterectomy but I desperately didn’t want this,” she says. ”I was only 33 and wanted to have children. So they shut down my other ovary and I went into early menopause.”
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Little could she have imagined what other challenges lay ahead.
Sunita Thind who was diagnosed with cancer at 33.
Thind, a former primary school teacher, who is now a writer and poet, had six months of chemotherapy, followed by physiotherapy to begin her recovery.
“Having ovarian cancer changed my world. It shattered me and I felt like I was living with constant fear.” she says. “There was always this little voice wondering if I did the right thing by not having a hysterectomy.”
Three years after her initial cancer diagnosis, in April 2019, Thind had fertility treatment to freeze her eggs and managed to secure eight viable eggs. All the while, she was having regular scans to check that the cancer had not returned.
By November, specialists told Thind they weren’t happy as the cancer markers were high. Then in February this year, she was told there was cancer in her remaining ovary and that they needed to get rid of it. She was “absolutely devastated”.
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“As a woman, I didn’t want to lose my periods, my fertility and my womanhood as it is part of my identity. But I knew I had to have it done.”
This time, it wasn’t only the doctors advising a hysterectomy. Thind says her husband Peter, who she describes (alongside their dog Ghost) as her “rock”, was also worried for his wife, because his own mother had had breast cancer and then ovarian cancer and died of it 10 years ago. However, he realised how strongly she felt against having the full operation – and supported her decision.
“I wanted to keep my womb as I still wanted to have a baby using my frozen eggs,” she says. “I knew the ovary needed to go and that was heartbreaking [enough]. As a woman, I didn’t want to lose my periods, my fertility and my womanhood as it is part of my identity. But I knew I had to have it done.”
It was then the coronavirus pandemic hit.
Sunita Thind Sunita Thind with her dog Ghost.
Thind was booked in for surgery to remove her remaining ovary in May, during the height of UK lockdown, making a stressful situation even more challenging.
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Before going in for her surgery, Thind had to have a Covid-19 test, which was negative. However, the hospital gave her a letter warning her that there was a risk she could get coronavirus while in hospital and be put on a ventilator.
The hardest thing, she says, was not being able to have her husband by her side or any visitors, due to the strict lockdown measures in place.
Doctors had warned that if something went wrong during the surgery, they might have to do a hysterectomy anyway. The prospect of waking up to this news without her husband there to support her frightened Thind.
Luckily, the operation went smoothly – she didn’t lose her womb and the care she received was excellent, she says. Even so, the experience felt “surreal”.
“You weren’t allowed to wear a dressing gown and slippers and I was wheeled into theatre just wearing the hospital gown,” she recalls.
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“The hospital was like a ghost town – I had the bay to myself and there were only about seven people on the whole gynaecology ward. Unless you needed something, you were left to your own devices. I received great care in hospital, but it was gruelling trying to recover in such a lonely way.”
Despite the warnings, Thind didn’t contract coronavirus while in hospital having her surgery, but three days after her first chemotherapy session in late June, she started feeling breathless – and was re-admitted for a test. It came back positive for Covid-19 – another blow on top of everything else.
“It is hard to say where I got exposed,” says Thind, who believes she could have contracted the virus from anywhere. “The week before I went into hospital, I went to Asda wearing a mask. Or I could have got it from my husband as he was going to the pharmacy to get medication for me.
Regardless, she went straight into quarantine. “I isolated at home for a week and my husband isolated for 14 days. I had chest pains and felt tired and dizzy. But luckily, I recovered after about four or five days.”
Thind feels doubly grateful for the speedy recovery, knowing that coronavirus disproportionately affects people from Black, Asian and ethnic minorities – and that it could have seriously impacted her cancer treatment.
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“I had a lucky escape as the chemotherapy kicks in after about seven to 10 days so fortunately, my immune system hadn’t weakened.”
Sunita Thind
Cancer is still stigmatised in the Asian community, says Thind, with many people unwilling to talk about it or seek help soon enough.
“They call it the silent killer as it is often caught too late,” she says. “I have a distant aunt who had ovarian cancer but she was too ashamed to go to the doctor until it was too late and she ended up dying of it when she was in her 40s. Although I didn’t experience any symptoms, I was very lucky that my ovarian cancer was caught so quickly.”
““I want the Asian community to realise that cancer isn’t something you should hide or brush under the carpet.”
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There were members of her family who wanted to “keep it quiet” when she was diagnosed. Instead, she has become something of an ambassador – even taking part in a fashion show for the ovarian cancer charity Ovacome.
“I wanted to raise awareness and for the Asian community to realise that cancer isn’t something you should hide or brush under the carpet,” she says.
Nevertheless, the double whammy of cancer and coronavirus have left her emotions “all over the place”. As well as support from Macmillan Cancer Support and ongoing therapy to deal with the impact of all this on her mental health, she is using writing and poetry as an outlet, and published her first collection of poems, The Barging Buddhi, earlier this year. Thind’s writing covers a range of themes from religion and gender, to cancer... and family.
“I am still desperate to be a mum,” says the 37-year-old. “I’d like to give it a year for my body to recover and get healthy and then I’d like to use my frozen eggs to have a baby. Hopefully, this will happen. I’m determined not to give up in my quest to have a child and become a mum like I’ve always wanted.”
What would have been a difficult period of her life has been magnified by Covid-19, says Thind, but she remains resolved on recovery.
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“I just want life to get back to normal. Everyone is in the same boat, but I am in a slightly different boat which is further out in choppy waters.”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-08-02--The Risks Of Going On A Plane Right Now – And How To Reduce Them

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As fellow Brits pile on planes headed for tropical destinations, many of you will be wondering whether you, too, should book a last-minute summer getaway.
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One of the things that might be holding you back – in addition to the prospect of quarantine on return – is getting on a plane. Being contained on an airtight vessel with strangers (and their germs) for hours doesn’t sound like the most ‘Covid secure’ environment.
Historically, studies have found planes can be breeding grounds for infectious diseases – add into the mix the prospect of a potentially airborne illness and it doesn’t fill a person with hope. So, is the air safe on a plane?
Professor Qingyan Chen, an expert in mechanical engineering at Purdue University, tells HuffPost UK while coronavirus could be airborne – and therefore may spread through air conditioning systems – “the virus concentration in air is very low”. But if you’re exposed to a low virus concentration in the air for a long time, there’s a higher risk of becoming infected.
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Generally it’s believed the filters used on aircrafts, called high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, do a good job of filtering out particles the size of Covid-19.
“The interesting thing is there haven’t been documented cases of transmission on airlines,” says Professor David Hunter, an expert in epidemiology in the Nuffield Department of Population Health at University of Oxford. “My guess is that’s probably because most of the airlines... have been flying mostly empty.”
While flying isn’t without its risks, Prof Hunter says right now, the destination is likely to be more risky anyway. “If someone’s travelling, depending on where they’re travelling to, they’re probably at greater risk of picking up the virus when they spend a couple of weeks in the other destination, than they are to get it on the plane.”
The Foreign & Commonwealth Office currently advises Brits against all but essential international travel – but travel to some countries is exempt from this advice, including France, Croatia and Italy.
When travelling on a plane during the pandemic, people are advised to: remain seated as much as possible; follow instructions and guidance from crew; use contactless payment where possible; be aware there’s likely to be a reduced food and drink service; and make the cabin crew aware if you become ill.
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There are other things you can do to reduce your risk of catching the virus on a flight.
Opt for a shorter flight
Professor Hunter says one of the key factors to consider is how long you’re flying for. Shorter flights – for example, a one-hour flight – pose less of a risk than, say, a four-hour flight.
Fly at quieter times, if you can
If there are hardly any people on your flight, the risk is automatically lowered as there are fewer people to catch the virus from. You might want to discuss quieter times with the airline before booking – although nothing can be guaranteed.
“I wouldn’t want to be on a plane that’s choc-a-block,” says Prof Hunter. “I’d feel relatively safe on a plane where they’re flying three quarters empty and they’ve spaced people out.”
Sit at a distance from others
Where you’re seated – and how far away you’re sat from others – is important. If people are spread out, it would be safer than if you have to sit right next to, or directly in front of, someone.
A FlyHealthy study conducted by researchers from Emory University in 2018 found an infectious passenger with influenza was unlikely to transmit infection to passengers seated further away than two seats laterally and one row in front or behind. If you’re seated close to someone, ask if you can move.
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A preprint study about Covid-19 transmission on planes suggested when all seats are full on a US jet aircraft, the risk of contracting Covid-19 from a nearby passenger is about 1 in 7,000. But if the middle seat is left empty, that risk falls to about 1 in 14,000.
Keep your hands clean and don’t touch your face
The same study about Covid-19 transmission discovered another key mode of transmission was touching infected surfaces such as tray tables, seat belts and lavatory handles. This is one of the primary ways to catch Covid-19.
“Passengers and flight crews can eliminate this risk of indirect transmission by exercising hand hygiene and keeping their hands away from their nose and eyes,” the researchers suggested. The same rules apply now, keep those mitts clean (hand sanitiser is your friend on flights) and do not touch your face.
It might be worth taking some cleaning wipes with you to wipe down the seatbelt, armrests and tray tables.
Wear a face cover
“To protect from infection, it’s important that everyone wears masks,” says Prof Chen. Different airlines have different measures in place surrounding mandatory face coverings, although most will require you to wear one.
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If everyone wore a mask, theoretically, that means fewer droplets will escape from people’s noses and mouths into the environment – and there will be less of a temptation to touch your face.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-08-02--Greater Manchester Declares Major Incident After Rise In Coronavirus Infections

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A major incident has been declared in Greater Manchester due to increases in coronavirus infection rates across “multiple localities”, just days after the government announced new lockdown restrictions for parts of north-west England.
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The decision means the readiness of emergency and public services to respond to the escalating Covid-19 transmission rate in the region has been upped so they can “respond as effectively as possible”.
It does not mean there are any further changes to lockdown rules, a spokesman for Greater Manchester Combined Authority said.
Health secretary Matt Hancock announced late on Thursday that as of Friday, people from different households in Greater Manchester, parts of east Lancashire and West Yorkshire would be banned from meeting each other inside their homes or in gardens following a spike in virus cases.
The new rules also banned members of two different households from mixing in pubs, restaurants and other hospitality venues, but those businesses are permitted to remain open for those visiting individually or from the same household.
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Assistant chief constable Nick Bailey, chairman of the Local Resilience Forum in Greater Manchester, said the Strategic Coordination Group met this weekend to discuss regulations in response to last week’s announcement.
He said: “Recognising that there are multiple localities across Greater Manchester seeing rises in infection rates, the group reviewed learning from other recent areas, including Leicester, and its own learning from across the partnership and have taken the decision to declare this a major incident in order to respond as effectively as possible.
“This will enable us to maximise the capability of agencies across Greater Manchester, including additional resources if required, to instigate a prompt and positive change in direction.
“It is part of our desire to protect the population of Greater Manchester and provide them with the highest levels of assurance that agencies are doing all they can to reduce infection rates and bring Greater Manchester back to as near a state of normality as current times allow.”
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It comes on the same day it was reported Boris Johnson is mulling lockdown-like conditions for London and asking the elderly to shield once again as part of plans for avoiding a second national lockdown.
The PM has ordered preparations to be made should there be a significant rise in the number of new coronavirus infections, The Sunday Telegraph and The Sunday Times said.
But Downing Street sources distanced themselves from the detail in the reports, calling them “speculative”.
And on Sunday morning, housing secretary Robert Jenrick when asked about whether new age-related measures were likely, told Times Radio: “This is just speculation.
“You would expect the government to be considering all of the range of options that might be available.
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