20 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
What your toes say about your health — 8 warning signs to look out for
Next time you’re giving yourself a pedicure, consider looking beyond which shade of polish best compliments your favourite sandals.
‘While often overlooked, your toenails and feet play a huge role in your overall health and it’s important to pay attention to their condition,’ says Sheena Bagga, pharmacist prescriber at LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor.
Although many problems with toes and nails are easy to treat, changes to their appearance can be clues that something more sinister needsprofessional medical attention.
Here, she tells Metro the main symptoms to look out for, and the different health issues each signal might point to.
Yellow discolouration
‘Yellow discolouration can indicate a toenail infection, which can occur on any part of the nail,’ Sheena explains. ‘This causes the nail to discolour, become crumbly, or thicken.’
Alternatively, yellowing could be down to nail psoriasis, but this typically comes alongside pitting or patches, and it may also be lifted from the nail bed underneath.
To prevent infections, the advice is to keep your nails short and clean, wear a clean pair of socks every day, and ensure your shoes fit correctly.
Dark nail stripes
A brown or black band running lengthwise along the nail – known as melanonychia – is normally nothing to worry about.
When the cause is benign, it’s likely either a variation in pigmentation or the result of an injury.
But in some rare cases, Sheena says it’s ‘a tell-tale sign’ of a type of skin cancer called Subungual Melanoma – so if you’re concerned, it’s worth getting it checked out.
Swollen toes
According to Sheena, toe swelling can be caused by a number of conditions, including lymphatic issues, poor blood flow, or even gout.
‘Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis characterised by sudden, severe joint pain, often in the big toe, caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints,’ she explains. ‘It is more likely to occur in people who are overweight, and consum
There are less serious reasons for swelling though, including:
- Sitting or standing for long periods of time
- Wearing shoes that are too small
- Being overweight, dehydrated, or eating a diet that’s heavy in salt
Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet can help with some of these common issues, along with regular exercise and movement, but it’s recommended to speak to your GP if you also experience symptoms like pain, aching, or difficulty moving.
White toenails
White lines or spots on the nail are called leukonychia, and are often caused by trauma such as stubbing your toe.
However, these can sometimes can be a sign of deficiencies in protein, zinc, or iron, or of a fungal infections if the nail is also brittle and crumbly.
‘Although rare, fully white nails are slightly more concerning and could be an indicator of a systematic illness in another part of the body,’ adds Sheena. ‘These include liver cirrhosis, hyperthyroidism, or diabetes.’
If you’re concerned and are experiencing additional side effects, contact your GP to help identify the cause.
Blue discolouration
Always got cold feet? It could be a sign of poor circulation, which can also leave your toes with a bluish discolouration.
More specifically, blue-tinged toes are a symptom of a condition called Raynaud’s disease, which ’causes narrowing of the smaller arteries which supply blood to the extremities.’
A doctor will be able to provide advice if you’re having circulation problems, but Sheena notes that regular exercise can also be beneficial for managing the symptoms.
Itchy toes
Athlete’s Foot is a common fungal infection that shows as itchy white patches between your toes.
‘It can also affect the soles or sides of your feet, sometimes causing fluid-filled blisters,’ Sheena adds.
While it can be dealt with through over-the-counter remedies, prevention is better than cure. As such, you should make sure to completely dry your feet after washing them – especially between your toes – and wear clean socks every day, ideally cotton ones which allow the skin to breathe more easily.
Ulcers on toes
We’ve all ended up with a blister after a day on our feet, but ulcers are different – and much more worrying if you have diabetes.
‘Unlike a blister that occurs under the skin, an ulcer is a break in the skin’s surface, appearing as an open wound,’ says Sheena.
‘During the time the wound is exposed, it can leave you vulnerable to developing an infection, which in serious cases can lead to amputation.’
Spoon nails
Toenails that change shape and look curved, concave or ‘spoon’ shaped could indicate an iron deficiency or anaemia.
Sheena says: ‘Iron is essential for producing healthy red blood cells and maintaining proper nail health, so it’s important to speak to a healthcare provider who may recommend taking a supplement.’
Each person’s toes look different, but healthy nails should have a smooth surface with light pink or translucent colouration and little variation in shade.
Keep this in mind, and hot foot it to your doctor if you think something could be wrong.
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Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.
20 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
10 brands Brits want back on the high street – from Debenhams to Woolworths
Whatever you think of different shopping brands, one thing is certain: British high streets are shrinking as more and more close down.
It’s been a while since Woolworths and Debenhams shut for good, but Poundland is about to close hundreds of stores and Hobbycraft will also shut a number of branches in the latest blow for shoppers.
Despite the gloomy outlook, some brands are turning the tides and reopening branches.
Music store HMV reopened its iconic Oxford Street store in 2023, four years after it closed, and earlier this year Topshop suggested it could be making a return to the high street.
And new figures have revealed the top 10 brands shoppers want to see make a comeback.
Experts analysed search data and found Debenhams is an extremely popular choice, with the brand receiving nearly 500,000 searches every month.
Customers also want to see Dorothy Perkins, Toys R Us and Mothercare reopen their physical shops.
Boohoo bought Debenhams back in 2021, but not its high street shops, which meant they eventually closed.
Since then Boohoo has changed its name to Debenhams, reviving the brand, and its chief executive says it will become ‘Britain’s online department store’.
Richard Hunt, director of Liquidation Centre which helps businesses closing down, said: ‘The combination of failing to adapt to shifting consumer habits towards online shopping alongside the financial impact of Brexit and the pandemic contributed towards Debenhams’ financial strain.
‘However, their issues began years prior to these events, with the company carrying unsustainable debts due to poor financial decisions.
‘Their online-only comeback will be exciting for many fans, but it also serves as a stark reminder of their failure to compete effectively on the high street amid a changing market.’
Dorothy Perkins was also acquired by Boohoo after its previous owner, Arcadia Group, fell into administration in 2020.
The brand collapsed after failing to compete with online retailers, with high overheads leading to crippling financial issues.
Toys R Us, which receives about 61,000 searches every month, went into administration in 2018 after racking up a £15million tax bill.
Poor sales and struggling to keep up with technology meant the brand wasn’t able to pay off its debts.
Mr Hunt said the current economic climate poses an increasing risk, especially to retail businesses, with even well-loved household names falling by the wayside in recent years.
He explained: ‘It is much easier to lose consumers than to retain them, which is why regular market research and competitor analysis are so essential.
‘Staying ahead of the curve as conditions evolve is critical to long-term survival.
‘As we’ve seen, poor financial management and decisions have contributed to the downfall of several once-iconic household brands, proving how crucial it is to have effective financial strategies and management in place.
‘If a business reaches the point where liquidation becomes a risk, swift action is vital.
‘Seeking advice from a licensed insolvency practitioner (IP) can help clarify your options and potentially avoid insolvency altogether.’
Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk.
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20 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
'I'm a private investigator – unlikely household item proved husband was cheating'
In a revelation no one could have predicted, a bathroom item managed to expose a husband’s affair. But Paul Jones, a private investigator, explains how small clues can reveal partners in the act
20 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
'I'm straight and my husband is gay – there's one burning question everyone always asks'
Samantha Greenstone and Jacob Hoff are a happily married couple with a big twist – and say there’s one thing people can never get their heads around when it comes to their relationship
20 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
Boux Avenue’s must-have lingerie set is under £25 – and supports cancer charity, The Eve Appeal
Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more
If you’re after some pretty new underwear to brighten up your top drawer this spring, Boux Avenue is giving you the perfect excuse to treat yourself and give back. Because what’s better than feel-good lingerie? Lingerie that does good too.
From today until Sunday June 8, Boux Avenue is donating 10% of sales from its super cute Ribbed Seamless Ditsy Floral Bralette and matching Thong & Brief in Pink Mix to The Eve Appeal – the UK’s leading gynecological cancer charity.
Boux Avenue Ribbed Seamless Ditsy Floral Bralette
Soft, stretchy, and pretty, this seamless bralette features a ditsy floral print, scoop neckline, and removable padding. Non-wired for comfort and made with 25% recycled fibres, it has a matching thong or briefs to complete the set.
Not only is this floral set perfect for spring, it’s also part of The Eve Appeal’s brilliant #GetLippy campaign, which runs throughout May to raise awareness of the five gynecological cancers and help break the stigma around gynae health.
Yes, it’s time to get comfy talking about the stuff we’ve been told to whisper about. From recognising the signs and symptoms to simply feeling confident enough to say the word ‘vulva’ out loud, the campaign is all about education, empowerment, and starting life-saving conversations.
Boux Avenue isn’t just donating proceeds, they’re using their platform to support the cause and educate their community too. Because talking openly about gynae health shouldn’t be awkward, and the more we know, the more lives we can save.
To mark the campaign, Boux has also teamed up with two incredible women who have lived with gynecological cancer, sharing their powerful stories on Boux’s site and social channels throughout May. It’s heartfelt, it’s honest, and a reminder of just how important these conversations are.
So go ahead, treat yourself to something beautiful. Because when you shop this set, you’re not just updating your lingerie drawer, you’re helping support real change.
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20 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
'I'm worried about telling my ex my new partner is moving in with his daughter'
Coleen Nolan advises a mother of two who is making plans to live with her new boyfriend and his child, but thinks her ex and his mother will have a lot to say about it
20 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
These are the 9 best (and most comfortable!) ballet flats to wear this summer
Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more
This summer, the only shoes you’ll want to slip into are ballet flats. Easy on the feet and effortlessly chic, they’re having a major fashion moment – and we’re not mad about it.
Forget what you remember from the early 2000s. Today’s ballet flats are cooler, comfier, and way more versatile.
Whether you’re headed to the office, grabbing brunch, or packing for a weekend away by the coast, they’re the perfect finishing accessory that keeps your look polished without trying too hard.
Designers are fully on board too. From high-end labels like Miu Miu and The Row to high street favourites like Arket, COS, and Mango, everyone’s offering their take.
The Row’s Elastic Leather Ballet Flats are stylish but will set you back £800. We’ve listed far more affordable options below.
Pair classic black leather pumps with wide-leg trousers for quiet luxury vibes, or opt for mesh, metallics or satin to add a stylish twist to your summer dresses.
The best part is you don’t have to choose between comfort and style. With ballet flats, you get both.
So, whether you’re a minimalist, a maximalist, or somewhere in between, consider this your sign: ballet flats are back, and they’re here to stay.
Scroll down to see our pick of the best to buy now…
M&S Woven Ballet Pumps
These M&S woven ballet pumps are a fresh, summery twist to a classic favourite. Designed with a breathable texture, a delicate bow detail, and cushioned insoles for all-day comfort, they’re perfect for effortless everyday style. Easy to slip on and endlessly versatile.
Free People Italian Summer Mary Janes
Sun-drenched days call for these effortlessly chic Mary Janes. Made with soft leather and a minimalist strap design, they give your outfits a laid-back feel. They’re lightweight, breathable, and perfect for pairing with everything from linen trousers to floaty dresses.
H&M Mesh Mary Jane Ballet Pumps
Chic and lightweight, these mesh Mary Jane pumps are timeless design in a bold, on-trend leopard-print pattern. The sheer texture and elastic strap offer both style and comfort, making them perfect for effortless day-to-night dressing.
Arket Lace Up Ballerinas
Reinventing the classic ballerina, these lace-up shoes from Arket bring a bold, fashion-forward edge to your outfit. Made from soft leather with a sleek, minimal silhouette, the adjustable lacing is so high fashion. Perfect for those who want comfort without compromising on style.
Public Desire Gianna Pink Floral Ballet Flats
Bring some personality to your wardrobe with the Gianna Pink Floral Ballet Flats from Public Desire at New Look. The pretty floral print and minimalist silhouette make these flats the perfect accessory for a summer outfit. With a comfortable fit and breathable fabric, they’ll be your go-to shoe all summer.
Clarks Daiss30 Shine Mary Jane
The Daiss30 Shine Mary Janes from Clarks feature adjustable strap and a cushioned insole for extra comfort and the subtle metallic sheen brings a sophisticated touch to both casual and dressier outfits. We love.
Zara Crochet Bow Ballerinas
With a delicate crochet upper and a minimalist bow, Zara’s Crochet Bow Ballerinas are our new favourite summer shoes. Designed for comfort, soft, lightweight pair them with a pair of cropped jeans or a floral midi dress.
Chloé Marcie Embellished Leather Ballet Flats
Expensive? Yes. Timelessly chic? Also, yes. The Chloé Marcie embellished leather ballet flats are pricey but they’re made from gorgeously supple leather and will last for summers to come. The T-bar straps mean your feet stay in place and we just love the gold buckle detail.
Charles & Keith Snake-Print Crossover-Strap Mary Janes
These Mary Janes from Charles & Keith feature sleek crossover straps and a snake-print finish for a contemporary, textured look. The structured silhouette adds a modern edge, making them an easy choice for both sophisticated tailoring and laid-back jeans.
Forget the heels, these ballet flats are the it-girl shoes for spring/summer 2025.
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‘Hi, Mum’, said a cheery voice as I answered my phone in the middle of a bookstore. I froze. Because although I am a mum, it wasn’t either of my children on the other end of the phone. It was my own mother.
At that moment, with my phone in my hand, I didn’t know how to react. ‘Go along with it’ is often the advice given when dealing with people who have dementia. But should I remind my mum that her own mother died 40 years ago and that I am, in fact, her daughter?
My mum, Diane, was one of the first women to get a scholarship to Cambridge University in 1960s. She went on to have a 30-year career as a producer and director for the BBC. Travelling the world to war-torn countries, reporting news and current affairs, she was more comfortable in combats than heels.
The first sign of a problem came in 2018, with increasing forgetfulness. It had been subtle at first: asking the same question twice over dinner.
Then came heightened anxiety over the smallest things. The woman who once got to an airport to fly across the world with an hour’s notice would call me every few hours to rehash our lunch plans at the café where we had met 100 times. This annoyed me and I asked myself, ‘Why is she being so ridiculously needy?’
It has always been just Mum and me. My grandmother died when my mum was pregnant – and my dad left at the same time.
Endless googling of ‘early dementia symptoms’ led to the conclusion that a visit to the GP was in order. The first step was a blood test to rule out any deficiencies – thyroid, vitamin B12, anaemia – that can change someone’s mental state.
Next was a referral to the memory clinic where Mum had comprehensive neuropsychological testing. And finally, a brain scan.
Then, in 2018, came the devastating diagnosis: at the age of 72, Mum had Alzheimer’s, the most common type of dementia. We attended the appointment together. I recall her being quiet for a while and then saying, ‘Oh well, at least we can start rewatching our Jonathan Creek boxset – I clearly won’t remember any of the endings!’
I felt a range of emotions: relief that there was something wrong, anger that this was happening to us, and scared for what the future held. Would Mum ever meet grandchildren and be at my wedding? How long until she’d no longer know who I was?
In the first couple of years, the progression was slow. Then Covid hit. I guess we’ll never know if the isolation directly affected Mum’s health, but enough studies have been done to show that being isolated and unoccupied can lead to faster progression.
Visiting the flat of my once house-proud mum after not being able to do so for a few months during lockdown was shocking. Piles of rubbish, a fridge full of rotting food, cat poo on the carpet. My guilt was overwhelming: the woman who had raised me single-handedly really needed me – and I had let her down.
We relocated Mum to around the corner from our home and I fell into a carer role. I took over all life admin: shopping, cleaning, bills. Luckily I’d applied for power of attorney while Mum was still of sound mind. That’s something I highly recommend doing when caring for a loved one because the process is more complicated further down the line. It’s part of the advice given by Alzheimer’s Society, too.
Time-confusion is a common symptom of dementia but tools are available to help. Mum’s flat featured two dementia clocks that simplify time by writing it out – ‘three in the morning’ etc. A toddler clock at the front door stated ‘red means night, green means day’ and sensors on doors alerted my phone whenever they opened and closed.
I urge anyone in a similar position to reach out for help. From gadgets to coping techniques, Alzheimer’s Society has so much advice. The earlier the diagnosis, the better it is for all concerned.
It hasn’t been all doom and gloom, though. As Mum regresses into a childlike state, the simplest of things bring her happiness: the blossom on a tree, a good cup of tea, dancing to a busker in the street with my toddler. Pure joy was on her face every time she clocked my baby bump during my second pregnancy. ‘You’re pregnant!’ she’d exclaim.
Now living in a care home near me, she’s baking, painting and growing vegetables at an allotment.
I get to hold Mum’s hand and watch the faces of my children light up when they see her. We’re still making memories I’ll treasure for ever.
The six signs that can indicate dementia
About a million people in the UK have dementia and the figure is projected to rise to 1.4million by 2040. Each person experiences dementia in a different way, especially during the early stages.
Here are six red-flag signs used by Alzheimer’s Society in its online symptoms checklist – endorsed by the Royal College of GPs – to help people describe their symptoms to their health professional.
Changes in mood or personality
Nobody is expected to feel positive all the time but if someone starts to become easily irritable, lose interest in things or have extreme highs and lows, this may be a sign of dementia.
Asking the same question over and over again could also be a sign. If you spot these signs in yourself or a loved one, seek support from a GP or a healthcare professional as soon as you can.
Memory loss
For someone with dementia, problems with memory and thinking become worse more quickly than they would normally do with age. The decline is noticeable over a period of months rather than years.
For a doctor to diagnose someone with dementia, their symptoms must have become more frequent and have a significant affect on daily life.
Difficulty organising thoughts or staying focused
Familiar tasks they’ve done all their lives may start to get more difficult. Someone may also lose the ability to perform tasks in the proper order, such as trying to cook pasta before putting water in the pan.
Equally, if a person finds they’re making lots of poor decisions – because they can’t process information in the way they used to or their personality seems to have changed over a few months – it could be a sign they need to see their GP.
Asking the same question over and over again could also be a sign.
Other signs include forgetting the names of common objects and words, and quickly losing the thread of what someone is saying.
Problems using words or communicating
As people get older, it’s common to have trouble finding the correct word occasionally. Most of the time, this is a normal sign of ageing.
However, if someone consistently struggles to communicate because they can’t remember commonly used words, or they’re putting words together in a way that doesn’t make sense, this may be a sign that something is wrong.
Problems with vision
It’s normal for a person’s eyesight not to be as sharp as it was when younger.
However, if they’re still having issues reading text, even with glasses on, it might be worth telling their GP.
Some people with dementia have difficulty judging distances or seeing edges, leading to trips or falls. Dementia sometimes causes hallucinations.
Confusion about where you are or what time it is
If someone finds themselves getting lost in a familiar place or being unable to find their way home, this can be a red flag.
Some people experience ‘time shifts’ – eg they may think they’re living in a previous home.
If you’re worried about yourself or someone close to you, then check your symptoms today using Alzheimer’s Society’s symptom checklist.
Visit alzheimers.org.uk/checklist or call their Dementia Support Line on 0333 150 3456
19 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
Damson Madder’s new summer-ready capsule collection is here — but it won’t be for long
Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more
Famous for their ‘more is more’ approach to fashion, Damson Madder has been making waves ever since they burst onto the fashion scene back in 2020.
Best known for their bold yet ultra-feminine prints, and statement features like frill collars, oversized bows, and ruffles, every single item they make exudes joy and confidence.
But unlike many of today’s most popular sites and stores, the London-based brand prides itself on a more slow and sustainable approach to fashion — meaning every collection is limited in both size and stock quantity. So, it’s safe to say that we were all ears as soon as we heard the news that the latest collection had dropped.
A carefully curated collection of summer-ready pieces, ‘The Gaze’ offers a modern take on femininity, with its mix of structured yet flowy silhouettes, statement prints, and palette that plays with bold primary colours.
The hero print of the collection has to be the on-trend red and white micro polka dot — but as we’d expect, stripes and checks are also heavily featured. And don’t worry, accessory lovers — they’ve definitely delivered in the scrunchie department.
Ready to shop? From chic shirred shirts, to romantic strappy dresses and camis, here are a few of the collection’s stand-out pieces:
Raphi Cami in Off White And Red Spot
From its statement shirred bodice and square neckline, to the flattering peplum hem and vintage ruffle detailing, this cami is a slightly new silhouette for Damson Madder — but it fits in seamlessly. For a cute and cohesive fit, pair it with the matching Layla Skirt, which is the perfect drop-waist midi.
Hazel Shirt in Blue/Choc Stripe
We’re big fans of this blue and chocolate brown striped take on the fan-favourite white Hazel Shirt. With its shirred detailing, button down placket, and peplum hem, it’s the perfect blend of form-fitting and feminine.
Mallory Midi Dress in Cloudy Check
Another brand new silhouette for SS25, this midi oozes feminine charm with its smocked bodice, low back, and flowy drop-waist skirt. Best of all, you can even purchase a frilly Garter Scrunchie in the same pretty checked print.
Angelina Midi Dress in Red
Another new silhouette, the lace-up fitted bodice and voluminous flowing skirt of this strappy midi dress make the perfect romantic pair. Red is well and truly having its moment — but if you’d like a slightly more unique print, it also comes in Blue/Choc Stripe.
Leilani Blouse in Garden Tulle Stripe
With its A-line silhouette, flowy three-quarter sleeves, and lightly ruffled square neckline, there’s something effortlessly feminine about this vintage-inspired blouse. Pair it with the matching Layla Godet Midi Skirt — or keep it casual with a pair of jeans instead.
Garter Bun Wrap in Blue/Choc Stripe
A hair accessory that does a little something extra, this oversized scrunchie comes with a bun wrap that looks lovely tied in a bow around a ponytail or bun — or if you’re feeling fancy, you can even weave it through a plait.
Adeline Shell Mini Dress in Laser Check
A real retro silhouette, this gorgeous mini dress makes a real statement with its pretty puff sleeves, functional oversized buttons, and laser check details. For a cute and preppy fit, pair it with white socks and a trusty pair of black loafers.
Cressida Cami in Blue Paisley
We love a flowy summer cami — and this one has a lovely vintage feel thanks to its pretty paisley pattern. Designed with comfort in mind, it’s got adjustable tie detailing at the sides, and a shirred back bodice for additional stretch.
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19 May, 2025 | Admin | No Comments
'I'm 21 and my partner is 44, people can't believe how old my step-kids are'
A 21-year-old woman admitted that she gets accused of being a ‘gold digger’ because of the 23-year age gap relationship she has with her boyfriend – but she is encouraging people not to judge