Communication expert Jefferson Fisher shared his top tips for spotting when someone is not telling the truth

While Tewkesbury is best known for its medieval history and mustard-making industry, a new shopping centre could soon transform the Gloucestershire town into a bargain-hunting haven.

Due to open in July, the first phase of the Cotswold Designer Outlet spans 119,150 sq ft of retail space – equivalent to about the size of Trafalgar Square – and 1,100 car parking spaces.

A number of fashion brands, including Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, Adidas, BOSS, Levi’s and Sweaty Betty, and food chains like Wagamama, Five Guys, Pret a Manger and Caffe Nero, are among the 44 businesses confirmed so far.

A flurry of additional brands are also said to have expressed interest in phase two of the £30 million project, which will extend the outlet provision by 50,000 sq ft to a total line-up of 90 stores.

According to Simon Tothill, property director at developer Robert Hitchins, more names will be shared in the coming weeks, and further expansion is underway to cement its status as a ‘go-to shopping destination for visitors from near and far.’

It’s not just shops either, with plans listing features from ‘motorway-pause’ walking routes and ‘chill out’ seating to play areas for both children and dogs.

Near junction 9 of the M5, the Cotswold Designer Outlet sits just outside ‘charming’ Tewkesbury.

This was a strategic choice from bosses, who hope to capitalise on the region’s ‘destination appeal’ and offer visitors a new ‘day out’ option on their countryside breaks.

There’s certainly no shortage of things to do locally, and the so-called ‘gateway to the Cotswolds’ attracts a steady stream of tourists for its character-filled streets riverside setting.

Tewkesbury Nature Reserve is perfect if you want to get away from it all, while the 12th Century Tewkesbury Abbey and Tewkesbury Museum offer a glimpse into the area’s rich history.

Plus, it’s easily accessible from around the UK: by car, you’re looking ataround two-and-a-half hours from London or an hour from Birmingham. Alternatively, regular trains run between Gloucester to Ashchurch for Tewkesbury, with the journey taking just under 20 minutes.

Full list of brands confirmed for the Cotswolds Designer Outlet line-up so far

• Calvin Klein
• Tommy Hilfiger
• BOSS
• Adidas
• Animal
• Ben Sherman
• Denby
• French Connection
• Radley
• Rituals
• Dune
• Levi’s
• Under Armour
• Skopes
• GUESS
• Saltrock
• The Beauty Outlet
• M&S
• Weird Fish
• Sweaty Betty
• Regatta
• Puma
• Skechers
• Mountain Warehouse
• ProCook
• Cadburys
• Lindt
• Tefal
• Craghoppers
• Crew Clothing
• Bedeck
• Chapelle
• Perfume Shop
• Merrell
• Pavers
• Yankee Candle
• Clinton Cards
• 200 Degrees
• Pret A Manger
• Five Guys
• Zizzi
• Wagamama
• Caffe Nero
• KNEAD Bakery

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

Aldi shoppers are impressed with a £10 anti-allergy product that’s designed to help alleviate snoring

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

You may not have really considered it before, but bras – specifically ones that fit well – are a true art form, and finding one that actually fits isn’t easy. Until now.

Just the other day, at the grand old age of 26, I found out that not only was I wearing the wrong bra size, but that I was two cups and two band sizes out from my real size. That’s right, my 36D was actually a 32FF, and I was flabbergasted.

The revelation came at a breakfast event where I met the wonderful Katie Weir (Weir Wonderful), a professional Bra Expert, who took one look at my chest and broke it to me that what I was wearing (and had been wearing for the past five years at least), was wrong.

‘I’ve never been measured,’ I’d told her, just slightly ashamed of the confession. She’d asked me what size I wore, and on my revelation of 36D she had smiled and told me that, respectfully, that wasn’t quite right.

And while I was sceptical, Katie turned out to be completely on the money.

Katie is a Bra Expert who offers lingerie expertise, virtual fittings and more to help you get your perfect fit, even working alongside brands to help inspire shoppers.

I’d recently seen her on Instagram and TikTok thanks to her work with Curvy Kate where she’s known as ‘The Curvy Kate Bra Whisperer’, taking to the streets of London with Jackie Adedeji in her bra and knickers to help ‘Uplift the Nation’ and educate women on getting the correct bra size. What’s not to love?

But how is it that myself, and many other women, end up spending such a large portion of their lives wearing the wrong size bra?

‘Busy lives!’ Katie told me. ‘People don’t realise they need to have a bra fitting every six months and when time flies, it is easier to stay in the wrong fitting bra.’

‘We need to be making a regular bra fitting part of our schedule. Make it fun, go with your friends or have a virtual fitting which is where you don’t even have to leave your home!’

And a virtual fitting I received.

After sizing me up at breakfast Katie sent me over some -stunning- Curvy Kate bras to try in 32FF and gave me a zoom call to help make sure they were the right size.

After showing me how to correctly put on a bra (there’s a knack, trust me, and it includes shimmying your bra up at the front and scooping your boob up within the cup), she made sure I knew just how it should fit, which spoiler, was different to what I had expected.

The right fit

From underwires digging into your armpits, bulging cups and backbands riding up, to digging-in shoulder straps, using the tightest hook-and-eye and floating underwires, Katie told me that there were plenty of common signs that showed an ill-fitting bra.

Band:

‘A well-fitting bra will feel like a hug around your body from the underband. Your straps and backband should have a ’two finger’ tension which is where you can pop two fingers under the strap or backband and pull away less than an inch. This is the sign of a backband offering 80% support.’

Straps:

‘The sliders on your straps should be used and not abused, so stay in tune with that two-finger tension and as you wash and wear the bra if you feel like you are lacking in support, tighten the back band first before the straps to ensure that you are getting 80% of that support from there.’

Cups:

‘The cups of your bra should encapsulate your breast tissue with zero spillage or bulging. The cup should sit firmly against the top cup of your breast without any gaping. Your wires should reach right around all of your breast tissue so that when you press down they touch on bone rather than breast.’

When I say this call with Katie was amazing, I truly mean it.

She explained to me how many women have had bad bra fitting experiences in their lives, so they just navigate bra shopping alone and buy what they know.

It made me think of my shyness and embarrassment growing up of the idea of being poked and prodded in an M&S changing room. An idea that I hadn’t realised had kept me from wearing the correct bra for 13 years of my bra-wearing life.

Katie’s mission is to ‘change the lingerie shopping experience to one that is fun, educational, easy and something you want to tell your friends about’ – and she really did exactly this.

We need to be making a regular bra fitting part of our schedule. Make it fun, go with your friends or have a virtual fitting which is where you don’t even have to leave your home!

In fact, the zoom call felt more akin to a catch up with a friend than something that I used to consider as sterile. And the best part? I didn’t even have to leave the house.

Book your virtual bra fitting with Katie Weir here.

I was most shocked during the fitting experience just how well the cups fit me and how much tighter my backband was – I’d always been a ‘tight straps, more support’ believer, and turns out that couldn’t be more wrong.

Common bra myths

When to comes to bras, I really feel like there’s so much the public (including myself) just don’t know. Do padded bras give you better shape? Will my bra from 10 years ago still fit me now? Katie ironed a few things out for us.

Marks on the underband mean your bra is too tight.

‘The back band must hug and hold our body which, just like jeans and socks, will leave marks.

‘Trust me, a firm hold on the underband is so much better than the weight of your bust coming down onto your shoulders and leaving red marks, as well as leading to pain and poor posture.’

You are the same bra size your whole life.

‘Unlike your feet, your boobs fluctuate with weight and hormones which means your bra size will change as your body does. I recommend having a professional bra fitting every six months, as this allows you to live in comfort and support for the body that you have at every stage of your life.

‘Treat it like a GP/Dentist appointment but just more fun as you might walk away with some gorgeous new lingerie rather than a root canal filling.’

Your straps hold up your boobs and give them the lift.

‘The lift and support comes from the backband of your bra and this is why it needs to be a firm fit to lift up the bust.’

Padded Bras give the best shape.

‘Non-padded bras sit closer to the breast tissue which give a better shape for the bust you have, especially ladies who have bottom heavy/softer top cup boobs.

We want a non-padded bra which hugs the tissue rather than it sitting at the bottom of a molded up on the inside but giving the illusion of a full cup on the outside.’

White bras are best under white tops.

‘The best bra for under a white top is a colour closest to your skin tone or RED!’

After my fitting with Katie, I couldn’t believe how much better I felt – supported, lifted, and honestly, a little bit smug.

If you’re in need of a fitting then I couldn’t recommend a virtual fitting with Katie Weir more. She’s knowledgeable, insightful and downright lovely to talk to. She put me at ease and I’ve come out the other end with the correct bra size without any awkward moments.

You can book a bra fitting with Katie here.

If you’re ready to find your perfect fit, here are a few of Katie’s top bra picks to get you started, including styles for bigger boobs and beyond.

Best sports bra for big boobs:

Curvy Kate Everymove Wired Multiway Sports Bra

Curvy Kate's first sports bra, the Everymove Wired Multiway Sports Bra is a total game-changer for gym rats – and I would know because I've tried this bra for myself. Designed for bigger busts, Everymove is triple layered and flexi-wired with hidden fitting technology to offer encapsulation, maximum adjustability and reassurance during exercise.

shop £46

Best sports bra for smaller boobs:

Champion Shock Absorber Ultimate Run Bra – Copper

Ideal for smaller busts, this award-winning Ultimate Run Bra, which has been designed specifically for runners but is ideal for all activity, reduces bounce by up to 78% and provides ultimate friction-free comfort.

shop £52

Best comfort and support bras for fuller bust:

Curvy Kate WonderFully Full Cup Side Support Bra

Bigger busts need even more support, and this Curvy Kate bra has support in spades. The sleek microfibre cups have stretch mesh top cup panels for a flexible fit, plus anchored back straps to banish strap slippage and a curved underband to reduce roll and discomfort.

shop £35

Best strapless for big boobs:

Curvy Kate Luxe Strapless Multiway Bra

This Luxe Strapless Multiway Bra from Curvy Kate is the ultimate everyday strapless bra. It features supporting seamed cups that offer incredible uplift, rounded shape and support, while the four hook and eye fastening back band hugs your curves without the worry of slipping.

shop £36

Best low-cut strapless:

Panache Faith Moulded Strapless Bra

If you're on the hunt for the perfect low-cut strapless bra, then this one from Panache is it. The Faith strapless bra is designed with comfort in mind and gives you a smooth silhouette, boasting moulded, lightly padded cups and detachable straps.

shop £38

Best everyday bra for big boobs:

Curvy Kate Smoothie Spacer Moulded T-Shirt Plunge Bra

Smoothing and ideal for everyday wear, the feather-light Smoothie Spacer T-Shirt bra is super lightweight with zero visible back line. Boasting semi-sheer moulded spacer cup that fit like a second skin, as well as seam-free fabric that wraps around the body creating deep smoothing panels to offer a back smoothing solution, it'll quickly become your new go-to.

shop £42

Best push up bra for big boobs:

As Seen on You
@curvykate
Curvy Kate Boost Me Up Padded Balcony Bra

After a boost? This Curvy Kate balcony bra has been designed to lift your boobs and your mood, guaranteeing maximum uplift and projection for a real wow factor. The super flattering sweetheart neckline complements the lightly padded cups that offer an amazing shape.

shop £42

Best everyday comfort bralette:

Evelyn & Bobbie Defy Wire-Free Bra

This pull-over, full-coverage bra has been designed with comfort and posture support in mind, making it an excellent choice for everything from everyday wear to workouts. And yes, it's 'downward dog tested' (and approved).

shop £68

Best bra for big boobs on a budget:

Adella Athena Full Cup Side Support Bra Teal Blue

The Adella Athena bra brings comfort, support and style together in one affordable bra. Four-part cups use side panels to offer great shape and projection, while the lace top cup is lined to maintain a secure fit.

shop £22 (save £18)

Your best bra life is waiting for you…

Follow Metro across our social channels, on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

Share your views in the comments below

MORE: Festival season is looming – the ultimate packing checklist to brave Glastonbury and beyond

MORE: Here’s what we’re shopping from Damson Madder’s new swimwear drop

MORE: Start the new year strong with these sports bras designed to support your 2025 fitness journey

Tesco has long been my go-to supermarket, and I’ve always thought of my local branch as being pretty well-stocked. Turns out, it’s but a shadow of what the good people of Greater Manchester enjoy.

The country’s largest Tesco, in Walkden, is the UK’s biggest supermarket full stop – and one of the most sizeable in Europe.

Occupying an incredible 104,797 square feet, this Tesco is about the size of a Manhattan city block and twice as big as Bill Gates’s house.

Incidentally, that also leaves it eight times bigger than Manchester Cathedral, just 30 minutes to the east.

Technically a ‘hypermarket’, the store features many concessions, and more than a few features I’d never seen in any other Tesco.

Arriving at Tesco Walkden

Honestly, my first impressions were a bit… meh. The store didn’t look nearly as vast as my imagination had led me to believe. When you hear ‘the UK’s largest Tesco’, the mind conjures up images of a giant retail metropolis, possibly resembling the exterior of the Death Star (only with a big Clubcard sticker on it).

However, from the outside, the store looks pretty much like any other Tesco Extra. It’s obviously large, but it’s tough to get an idea of the scale of it – that is, until I walked inside.

The size of the place really does hit you immediately. The ceilings seem impossibly high, and I count close to 40 aisles of groceries alone (there are over 60 aisles in total).

It took me two minutes and six seconds to do the 187 steps to get from one end of the shop to the other. Yes, I really did count. 

While you’ll notice a lot of your everyday Tesco favourites, many of these have been supersized.

The bakery, for example, is pretty extensive, offering all the classics from sweet treats to pastries and freshly baked bread. Considering I was visiting around lunchtime on a Friday, it was still really well stocked.

The fruit and veg section also occupies a ridiculous amount of space, right in the heart of the store, and the F&F clothing rails could be an entire shop in itself.

F&F had a massive sale on too, and I was severely tempted by a navy zip-up, which was 50% off at just £11. 

A lot of Tesco staples you’ll find in other local branches are on offer, but I noticed an abundance of ‘XL’ sizes and larger variety packs that aren’t as easy to find. 

There are more than a few bargains to be found amongst the shelves, but I found the Home section to be particularly rich in cheap discounted trinkets. 

A candlelight 3D bunny mug was a rather adorable purchase at £2, with some fitted sheets (£3), F&F tea towels (£2), and oven gloves (£2.50) also reduced to clear.

A beige ottoman (yes, this store even does furniture), down from £35 to £25 for Clubcard holders struck me as a pretty good price, with side tables, meal trays, and shelving all priced under £20, too. 

In the wider store, a 32″ Sharp TV with 25% off for Clubcard customers (£139, down from £189) also stuck out, as well as the 40″ version below it with £30 off (£189, down from £219), and a Fly HoverVac 250 also with a third off at just £60. 

What makes Tesco Walkden different

Now, the big question: what makes this big Tesco different from the rest? 

Well, Tesco Walkden features a total of nine concessions (stores within stores, if you will) that include some you might expect (Tesco Mobile store, Tesco pharmacy, Tesco Café) and some you probably wouldn’t, like a Yo! Sushi counter, a Holland and Barrett, Vision Express, Max Spielman Photo Expert, Early Learning Centre and The Entertainer.

While I found the meal deal selection a little underwhelming, the reason for this immediately became apparent when I realised that this branch of Tesco literally has its own Greggs. Not just a counter, but an actual store. What a winner. 

Tesco Walkden also has another unique offering: its ‘Bulk Buy’ section. 

Reminding me of Costco, the Bulk Buys offer huge packs of all sorts of everyday essentials at an additional discount.

Some of the standouts here included eight rolls of ‘Plenty’ kitchen roll for just over a tenner, a 24-variety box of Seabrook crisps for £4.75, and what can only be described as a giant vat containing 10 litres of sunflower oil for £17.

While honourable mentions go to the XXXL Surf Mega box and 20 pack of Kinder Buenos, the two highlights had to be a huge 400g jar of Douwe Egbert’s coffee at £15, and 600 Tetley teabags at £12 per (giant) bag. Although, I’m strictly an Earl Grey man at heart. 

Oh, and it also has an autonomous laundrette in the car park. That was a first for me, and I can definitely see the advantage of having a load on while you do your weekly food shop.

The store is clearly a hit with the locals, with one regular shopper telling me there’s actually a smaller branch closer to where she lives, but she prefers coming to Walkden, ‘for the bigger selection’.

‘Plus, it has a Greggs!’ she concluded, excitedly.

I mean, I get it.

What did I buy from the UK’s biggest Tesco?

Truth be told, not much. 

Unfortunately, a sizeable commute by public transport hampered my ability to actually complete the big shop, as the last thing anyone needs is a whole chicken slowly defrosting next to them on the 1.41pm from Oxford Road. 

However, I did make use of the Greggs to grab my lunch (including the obligatory vegan sausage roll), some delightful scented candles at £2, and a big tube of Pringles at £1.95 (Clubcard price).

And, yes, I also bought the bunny mug, but I swear that’s a gift. 

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

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

I’m about to embark on one of the most exciting yet terrifying moments of my life – yup, buying my own place.

After sleeping in a bed that many others before me have, to sharing a bathroom, kitchen, TV and the rest, I’ve finally decided to go it alone – which has recently got my thinking about how to furnish the place.

Of course there are the things I want, but what do I actually need – after all, I own zero furniture, so that’s where I need to start first.

From the Pinterest bar cart I so desperately want, to art work for the blank walls, pots, pans and storage containers for all those cleaning products – they’ll have to wait as I need think about what I can budget for (because those solicitor fees are no joke, let alone stamp duty…)

After thinking long and hard about the top items everyone should buy before everything else, I think I’ve narrowed it down and created the list you too might want to go by if you too are getting your first steps into the housing market.

From how you can increase your storage options even in the smallest of flats and houses, to the classic bits and bobs we’ve loved for years from IKEA. Plus we’ve even found a dining room table that will be able to fit your guests round with ease. Not to mention a mattress that’s been purchased and reviewed by over 130,000.

Talking of IKEA, great news for Londers are the highly anticipated store is opening this May 1 – FINALLY. We can’t wait to attempt to lug too many candles, cheese graters, bathmats and picture frames home on the tube…

Top items first-time buyers need

Ascot Ottoman Storage Bed

The Ascot linen-look natural ottoman storage bed combines simplicity and comfort with a soft curved headboard and hidden underbed storage. It features a wooden sprung slatted base for support and is available in double, king, and super king sizes, as well as various colours.

Buy Now for £279 (was £459) at dusk

Hybrid® Mattress

The Simba Hybrid Mattress combines foam and springs for exceptional comfort, support, and cooling. It features a patented spring-comfort layer, multiple layers of CertiPUR® foam, and Simbatex® cushioning for optimal support and pressure relief. With a 200-night trial, 10-year guarantee, and free delivery, it's a top choice for a high-quality sleep experience.

Buy Now from £649 at simba

KULLEN Chest of 6 Drawers

This sleek chest of drawers seamlessly fits into any bedroom or space you choose. It offers ample storage for your favorite clothes and extra bedding. Don't forget to secure it to the wall for added safety!

Buy Now for £85 at ikea

Willow Coffee Table Desk

Enhance your living space with the Willow multifunctional coffee table. This chic coffee table easily converts into a practical workspace. Featuring a lift-top design and hidden storage, it's perfect for working from home or enjoying a cosy night in. The lift-top is ideal for using your laptop or having a meal from the sofa.

Buy Now for £159 (was £180) at dusk

Brayden 4 Seater Round Dining Table

This round dining table seamlessly blends modern and classic styles, making it ideal for compact areas. Featuring a sophisticated wood parquet effect on the tabletop and supported by four durable, powder-coated steel legs, it offers both elegance and strength.

Buy Now for £89 at dunelm

Model 03 3 Seater Sofa

The Model 03 three-seater sofa features a sleek, modular design that embodies contemporary minimalism. Available in a range of fabric colors, it offers versatile configuration options to suit any space.

Buy Now for £2,397 (was £2,897) at swyft

Added Extras

Sky Glass TV

The latest Sky Glass features an enhanced Quantum Dot display for even greater brightness. With advanced HDR, it offers breathtaking clarity. Plus, its integrated seven-speaker system provides immersive, 360 degree cinematic sound.

Buy Now from £14 a month at sky

Bouclé Storage Stool

This chic white bouclé storage stool adds elegance and texture to any room with its luxurious fabric and sleek black legs. It serves as both extra seating and a stylish storage solution, blending practicality with sophistication. Ideal for entryways, bedrooms, or living areas, it combines functionality with a refined aesthetic, making it a versatile addition to your home decor.

Buy Now for £25 at primark

House of Fun Scalloped Framed Wall Art

Invite friends and family to your House of Fun with this Scalloped Framed Wall Art. This rectangular piece showcases bold white text with gold drop-shadow accents on a striking black background, all encased in a red-toned scalloped frame.

Buy Now for £79.50 at oliver bonas

Love Notes Juice Glass

The Love Notes Juice Glass from Anthropologie is a charming addition to any kitchen. It features a playful design with whimsical text and illustrations, perfect for adding a touch of fun to your drinkware collection. This glass is both stylish and functional, making it a delightful choice for serving juice or other beverages.

Buy Now for £14 at anthropologie

Set of 3 Pastel Mini Scallop Baskets

Add a touch of playful style and organisation to your home with this set of three scallop mini storage baskets. Featuring colorful scalloped trims, these handcrafted baskets combine practicality with a fun, stylish flair. Ideal for tidying up small items around the house, these versatile baskets are perfect for use in a nursery, bedroom, or living room.

Buy Now for £26 at next

Colonna TV Unit

Experience effortless media organisation and contemporary style with the Colonna TV unit from Gallery Direct. Crafted from smooth mango wood with gently curved edges, it offers a modern aesthetic. The ribbed front doors add the finishing touch to its sleek design.

Buy Now for £649 at m&s

2 Tier Marble and Metal Side Table Set

This elegant set of two black marble effect tiered side tables effortlessly enhances your space. They nest together perfectly for a tiered appearance or can be placed separately in your living room. Use them as side coffee tables or as decorative pieces with plants and candles. The decorative possibilities are endless with this black marble and metal side table set.

Buy Now for £45 at primark

Complete Kitchen Set

If you’re not sure where to start, or you’re blown away by Our Place so much that you want everything in the range, then the Complete Kitchen Set is the ultimate bundle.

The kit is almost half price, which is pretty impressive considering there are 45 items inside.

From the Always Pan 2,0 as well as the mini version, Perfect Pot, the Wonder Oven, to mini griddle pan, the bakeware set, egg poachers, to oven mitts, this set covers all bases.

What we love is it means all your kitchenware will be colour coordinated too – could there be anything more satisfying?

BUY NOW FOR £720 (Was £1,365) at our place

Follow Metro across our social channels, on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

Share your views in the comments below

MORE: Our Place launches unmissable Spring sale – and it’s prime time to upgrade your kitchenware

MORE: Dunelm’s £35 garden loungers are ‘so comfy’ you’ll never want to get up

MORE: From Sipsmith Gin to Laneige, Oliver Bonas and Anthropologie – here’s our shopping experts picks of the week

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

Quicker than the speed of light, the weekend came and went, but with sunshine expected in parts of the UK this week, our shopping expert has found some glorious, hand-selected goodies you’ll love.

As per usual, she’s searched the high street far and wide, high and low to bring you all the new launches, viral sensations, what to wear, decorate your home with, drink, eat and the rest.

From skincare rumoured to be used by The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, to solar powered lights that have been hailed ‘stunning’, shampoo that will make your hair shine, and a setting spray that will ensure your makeup doesn’t go anywhere – even in 20-degree temperatures (and taking the tube.)

Hunky actor Jason Momoa’s adventurous spirit and environmental passion align perfectly with Nuii’s brand. Earlier this year, he visited the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital in Australia to learn about efforts to protect koalas.

Nuii has partnered with WildArk over the past five years to support disease management in koalas, aiming to make a meaningful impact.

Momoa’s visit and documentary will highlight the extinction risk koalas face and Nuii’s contributions, including over $300,000 donated since 2020 to support koala health and disease management along Australia’s East Coast. We love a man that can do it all!

For those hosting this weekend in the warmer weather, Sipsmith is excited to bring back their Chilli & Lime Gin, set to be the flavour sensation of 2025.

This handcrafted gin, featuring a bold mix of seven chillies and zesty lime peel, is inspired by the rising trend of chilli-infused cocktails. Crafted in their London distillery, it offers a refreshing balance of heat and citrus. Perfect for adventurous gin lovers, Sipsmith Chilli & Lime Gin adds a spicy kick to cocktails, with recipes like the Chilli & Lime Picante and G&T designed to inspire even seasoned mixologists.

Calling all Matcha fans as LANEIGE’s latest Lip Sleeping Mask and Lip Glowy Balm in Matcha Bubble Tea flavour have just hit the UK, promising to revolutionise lip hydration.

Sticking with the matcha theme, Perfect Ted have just launched some ready-made cans that have been hailed ‘absolutely banging.’

Oh and for more sweet news, Tony’s Chocolonely has once again joined forces with Oxfam and Glastonbury for a delicious collaboration aimed at fighting poverty. This time, they’re offering a chance to win Glastonbury 2025 tickets hidden inside limited edition Tony’s bars – think golden-ticket vibes!

These exclusive bars, available at Oxfam shops and online, come in two flavours: Everything bar and Dark bar 70% (vegan & nut-free). Every purchase supports global communities, and the collaboration has already raised £125k. Plus, it brings someone closer to that iconic Glasto mud dance.

These are just a few of the shoutouts but read on below to find some other goodies you’ll want to add into your basket pronto.

Welcome Orange Sunset Doormat

Brighten up your entrance with this vibrant doormat, showcasing a striking orange starburst design against a cheerful yellow background. The bold blue border frames the 'welcome' message, elegantly displayed in dark blue lettering at the top.

Buy Now for £20 at Oliver Bonas

Maegen Atina Tumbler Glass

MAEGEN (may-en) is your destination for unique and quirky homeware. Their collection features playful embroidered linens, vibrant glassware, and hand-painted plates, perfect for stylish hosts. Crafted in the UK, MAEGEN’s signature scented candles use 100% sustainable soy wax and British-sourced fragrances, adding delightful aromas and a pop of colour to your home.

Buy Now for £16 at anthropologie

Vanilla Oat Matcha Latte

Enjoy a chilled vanilla matcha latte with premium Japanese matcha and creamy oat milk. This smooth, natural energy boost has 60mg of caffeine and is sweetened with agave, free from refined sugar and artificial additives.

Buy Now at £18 for 12 cans per case at perfect ted

Bee Venom and Placenta 24 Carat Gold Ultimate Crème

Rodial's Bee Venom and Placenta 24 Carat Gold Ultimate Crème is a luxurious anti-aging cream that smooths and brightens skin. It combines Bee Venom, Vitamin C, and Placenta Protein to reduce wrinkles and enhance skin tone. Nano Peptide in 24 Carat Gold promotes a youthful complexion, while golden speckles add instant radiance. For best results, use after cleansing with the Bee Venom Cleansing Balm.

Buy Now for £75 (was £375) – save 80% at rodial

Hampshire Loveseat in Green Stripe

The Hampshire loveseat blends seamlessly with any interior, offering timeless style and exceptional comfort. Crafted with premium green striped fabric, foam and fibre filled cushions, and warm oak wooden legs, it's perfect for cozy nights and relaxing weekends. Delivered pre-assembled, simply attach the legs and enjoy. Pair it with a matching pouffe for the perfect finishing touch.

Buy Now for £436 (was £599)

Exclusive Limited Edition Color Wow Color Security Money Shampoo

Revitalise your hair with Color Wow's Color Security Shampoo, now in a limited edition sea sparkle scent. Suitable for all hair types, it creates a luxurious lather that removes impurities and excess oil while protecting dyed color. Enriched with a Japanese amino-fortified complex, it helps prevent dulling and breakage, leaving hair stronger and glossier for longer. Pair with Color Wow Color Security Conditioner for the best results.

Buy Now for £17.50 at lookfantastic

Kew Collection Fruit Print Sleeveless Scoop Neck Waisted Mini Dress with Linen

This ideal linen blend holiday dress features a mini length, round neckline, sheered back, and handy pockets. Dress it up with strappy heels or keep it casual with sandals or trainers.

Buy Now for £42 at next

Scalloped 10 LED Indoor Outdoor Solar String Lights

These really are the finishing touch to any outdoor space – and require just 2 AA batteries to get started.

Buy Now for £15 at dunelm

Urban Decay All Nighter Hylauronic Setting Spray

Urban Decay's All Nighter Hyaluronic Setting Spray (118ml) is a lightweight mist that locks in your makeup and gives your skin a dewy finish. Infused with hyaluronic acid and watermelon extract, it hydrates and plumps your skin while making your makeup smudge, transfer, and water-resistant. Spritz before or after makeup for long-lasting hold and a refreshing burst of watermelon scent.

Buy Now for £29 at cult beauty

Mink Suedette Flat Sandals

The Mink Suedette Flat Sandals from New Look are stylish, vegan-friendly slip-ons in a versatile mink color. They feature a nubuck-look suedette material, a front-tape strap, and comfort elements like cushioned padding and flexible soles, making them perfect for all-day wear.

Buy Now for £27.99 at new look

Bravissimo Rio Bikini Top

This non-padded full cup bikini top provides excellent support without being overly covering, perfect for sunbathing. It features fully adjustable straps and sits higher in the center for added coverage. The lightweight mesh cups offer superb support and all-day comfort. The twist-front detail is both flattering and provides extra coverage. With a scooped back and high sides, it ensures a smooth, flattering look. GG+ sizes come with additional lining for extra lift and support.

Buy Now for £44 at bravissimo

LANEIGE Lip Glowy Balm

Laneige Lip Glowy Balm offers the perfect blend of nourishment and shine, combining the benefits of a lip balm with the radiant finish of a gloss. Infused with murumuru and shea butter, it provides lasting hydration and a subtle tint, leaving lips soft, supple, and protected from environmental aggressors. Enjoy comfortable, healthy-looking lips all day long.

Buy Now for £17.50 at space nk

Chiffon Printed Scoop Neck Maxi Waisted Dress

This chiffon dress is a versatile addition to your wardrobe, perfect for any occasion. It features a regular fit, scoop neckline, and a flattering drop waist. The pleated maxi-length skirt and spot print add an elegant touch, while a concealed side zip ensures a seamless finish.

Buy Now for £99 at m&s

Have you spotted something you like? Or is there anything else you’ve been purchasing this week? Let us know!

Follow Metro across our social channels, on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

Share your views in the comments below

MORE: From chaos to clarity – how Noli’s AI technology is changing the world of beauty shopping and waste

MORE: Get celebrity-approved skincare for less at this beauty destination – with 87% off cream used by Kate Middleton

MORE: Bulldog Skincare launches new Anytime Daily UV Moisturiser SPF 50 – and it’s perfectly timed for summer

A microwave meal can feel like a godsend after a hectic day at work, and a packet of crisps is an easy snack to grab on the go, but you might want to think twice before scarfing these ultra-processed foods down.

This is because we’ve recently learned that exposure to ultra-processed foods (UPFs) such as these (as well as biscuits, sugary breakfast cereals, soft drinks, and more) could have contributed to thousands of UK deaths.

A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine has found that UPFs made up 53% of people’s energy intake in the UK – the second highest in the study after 55% in the US.

Researchers suggested that in 2018/19, some 17,781 premature deaths in the UK could have been linked to UPFs, according to their model.

This news won’t surprise some, as UPFs have already been linked to an increased risk of 32 illnesses, with the British Medical Journal revealing in 2024 that greater consumption of these types of food can be associated with early death, as well as heart disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes and adverse mental health.

While the BMJ admits that more research is needed into this area, one thing is clear – eating UPFs instead of healthier food is bad for us. 

But what are these chemically enhanced or preserved foods really doing to our insides in the short-term? Unsurprisingly, the answer is rather grim.

Metro spoke to nutritionists to find out what regularly eating ultra-processed foods does to your body and your mental wellbeing. Here’s everything you need to know…

What eating ultra-processed foods does to your body after a few days

Lily Keeling, a registered nutritionist for Green Chef, said: ‘Ultra-processed foods are often calorie dense but lack nutrients. They are almost always convenient, have a long shelf life and are flavour enhanced to taste good, making them prevalent in our diets. 

‘After eating them for a few days, they can cause greater spikes in blood sugar and lead to hunger pangs returning quickly, making us less energised and never satisfied. This cycle can lead to overeating, as we consume food at a pace that is too quick for our brains to recognise how full we are.’

Kerry Beeson, a nutritional therapist at Prep Kitchen, also warns that when you first start eating UPFs, you might initially feel a ‘boost’ due to the high sugar/salt or caffeine content they contain and this ‘tricks’ you into thinking the food is good for you, when it’s not.

She explains: ‘Caffeine is a stimulant, which gives us an energy boost, and sugary foods result in a spike in our blood sugar which has a similar effect, or sugar rush. The ingredients in these foods can also act on the “reward” cycle in our brain, stimulating the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine which make us feel good. Unfortunately, these effects are short-lived, and we soon come crashing down to feel tired and sluggish.

‘Even whilst we’re feeling the energy or mood-enhancing effects, more sinister effects are going on inside us. The pancreas is under pressure to produce enough insulin to cope with all the sugar intake; sodium from salt can increase our blood pressure, and cause water retention.’

She adds: ‘Harmful fats can cause inflammation, so you might find that joint problems feel worse. Our gut microbiome will be affected, as the sugar encourages the growth of harmful bacteria and yeasts, and food additives have an adverse effect on our good gut bacteria populations, so you might feel bloated or get indigestion.’

What eating ultra-processed foods does to your body after a few weeks

The more regularly you consume ultra-processed foods, the worse your quality of sleep will become according to Lily. 

‘Weeks of eating them will make people feel sluggish and they will be less likely to enter deep sleep at night,’ she says. ‘This is due to a person’s diet missing key wholefoods, like kiwis, cherries and nuts, that provide nutrients essential to sleep and helps to trigger the release of the sleepy hormones.’

As well as struggling with sleep, you may find yourself struggling more generally during the day as Kerry says the more UPFs you eat, the ‘greater the strain’ you put on your body. 

What eating ultra-processed foods does to your body after a few months

‘Months of consuming just ultra-processed foods is likely to lead to weight gain, fatigue, and damaged gut health — as UPFs lack the variety and fibre necessary to feed the gut microbiome,’ Lily tells Metro.co.uk.

She continues to say that it could impact your mental health as well, as there is a biochemical link between the gut and the brain, which is also known as the gut-brain axis. 

Harvard Health previously explained that the gut and brain send signals to one another, which is why, for instance, some people with anxiety may experience an upset stomach. However, it is thought to work both ways, so any gastrointestinal upset caused by food, could also send signals of anxiety, stress, or upset to the brain.  

Certain ingredients within ultra-processed foods, such as emulsifiers and artificial sweeteners can disrupt the gut microbiome, casting gastrointestinal issues. 

What eating ultra-processed foods does to your body in the long-run

The review of the recent UPF study in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) found that high consumption of UPFs is associated with a 50% increased risk of cardiovascular disease-related death, and a 48-53% higher risk of mental health issues including anxiety, and a 12% greater risk of type 2 diabetes.

Higher UFP intake was also linked to a 21% greater risk of death (from any cause), obesity, 40-66% greater risk of heart-disease, sleep problems and a 22% more chance of depression.

Other related health conditions include asthma, high cholesterol, and gastrointestinal issues.

What happens to your body when you stop eating ultra-processed foods?

It might not be possible to completely cut ultra-processed foods out of your diet, and experts have warned that not all processed foods are a major no-no.

However, your body will certainly thank you if you reduce your intake of most of the UPFs. But it might take a little while to adjust to the change, warns Lily.

‘Cutting ultra-processed foods out of your diet or reducing them significantly, could lead to notable fatigue or irritability at first, just like cutting out coffee, as your body adjusts to a different diet,’ she explains. ‘Then, your body will start to reap the benefits of a varied, balanced diet.’ 

The expert adds: ‘It’s important to remember that, unless you were to eat completely raw food all the time (let’s be honest that sounds pretty dull), most foods have undergone some form of processing. This isn’t always a bad thing, as canning, fermenting and freezing food is part of processing, increasing how long food stays edible, reduces waste, and can add nutritional value to a product. 

‘There are also other important factors like our busy schedules, raising kids and running a business, which can make choosing UPFs like oven chips the best option for mealtimes sometimes.

‘Moderation is key here, a little UPF now and again isn’t going to ruin your life. It’s important to make sure to create a healthy eating pattern that works for you.’

A version of this article was first published on March 7, 2024.

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

I didn’t think anything was especially wrong when I ended up in hospital in the middle of my second pregnancy, four years ago.  

I was violently ill with my first child, Reggie, so when I got the crippling symptoms of hyperemesis gravidarum – also known as extreme morning sickness – when I fell pregnant with my second, Connie, it came as no real surprise.  

I wasn’t worried that I was in and out of hospital for months, living off Lucozade and anti-sickness tablets – dehydrated and exhausted. Even after five months of relentless sickness, when I was hit with severe diarrhoea, I put it down to medication and pregnancy hormones. 

It was eight months into the pregnancy that I finally realised something was very wrong. 

I was at home and trying to get through the day with an active preschooler when I felt an intense pain rip through my belly and back. I didn’t know if it was labour or if I had an infection.  

Amidst the pain, I managed to dial my mum’s number, who called an ambulance and I was taken into hospital where I was given an ultrasound to check my kidneys.  

As I was being scanned by the sonographer, she paused. I was in so much pain and my heart was racing – something felt wrong. She went to get a colleague to check something she didn’t understand. 

The silent pause while I waited for both sonographers to check me over lasted for what felt like a lifetime. Then everything came crashing down on me when they told me there was a mass on my bowel.  

After that, everything happened in a blur.  

An MRI confirmed the insidious mass and more tests were ordered, including a sigmoidoscopy – an examination of the lower part of my colon – and a scan. I couldn’t have any sedation as I was pregnant, and I couldn’t have any family with me due to Covid.  

It was tough and lonely, but I just focused on keeping my baby safe. 

Following a biopsy, I was told I had bowel cancer and I needed to deliver my baby as quickly as possible.  

I think I went numb at that point. I don’t remember taking it all in. I was so focused on getting Connie out safely that I buried it and decided I would face everything else after she was born and safe.  

They told me I couldn’t have a C-section since they had to perform surgery for the tumour and couldn’t open me up twice. It was a startling thing to hear, but again, I dug it deep down. 

I chose to be induced on 21 December. It was a 12-hour labour and Connie was breech, but like a miracle, she turned at the last minute.  

I couldn’t believe it when she’d arrived after going through so much. I was so happy she was safe. 

My surgeon Kat Baker told me my operation was scheduled a few weeks later, on 17 January and that I should go home. She told me to enjoy Christmas as much as I could and allow my body to semi-recover before the surgery.

I tried to have a good time and be as normal as possible but the operation was lingering at the back of my mind. I was with Connie, my miracle, and so she got me through it, until Christmas Day. 

I cried for two days because everything I had been through came crashing down on me

I spotted blood in my poo and I felt so unwell I had to go back into hospital, where I stayed under supervision.  

For the first few days I was out of it. As I started to come round everything hit me.

Reggie came in at one point, but I didn’t want to scare him. The nurses gave him a stoma teddy to take him so he could understand what was going on. Connie was brought in twice, but those days were tough and very tearful.  

Two weeks later, while in hospital my bowel perforated, which can be fatal. The pain was unlike anything else and everything suddenly became an emergency. It was horrendous. For the first time I really thought I wasn’t going to make it. 

I don’t remember much that happened after that but I was rushed in for emergency surgery to remove the tumour, and a wash-out – where they wash the infection out of your abdomen.

When I came to, my body was still open from the top of my tummy to the bottom. Because it was an emergency, they couldn’t do keyhole surgery and they couldn’t close me up because they had to do the surgery in two parts. 

I had to lay there for two days with a line in my neck which fed me and gave me medication. I don’t remember much about this time. Two days later, I went back into surgery and they did another wash-out and put a stoma in. 

It was hellish but an incredible success. They removed the tumour completely and took 75 lymph nodes to check and not one of them had cancer in. It was the best of a rubbish situation but all the cancer had gone. 

On January 17, I was able to leave the hospital and go to my mum’s house to recover. I cried for two days because everything I had been through came crashing down on me.  

I couldn’t wait to spend some time with Reggie – he was only four and didn’t really understand what was happening. I had barely seen him since and couldn’t wait to hold him and my newborn daughter. 

It was so hard missing those first few weeks of Connie’s life. When I got back, I was still in recovery and unable to be the mum I wanted to be. It was five weeks before I could hold her properly or change her nappy.  

I started preventative chemo on my birthday in February for three months all while navigating being a new mother again. Luckily, I had no horrendous side effects from the infusions and tablets but mentally, the juggle was incredibly tough. 

In May, I finished my chemo and celebrated with a break with my family to Warwickshire and later I had a cancer-free party.  

I had another operation in July, carried out by the same surgeon via keyhole surgery and I am now stoma free.  

I feel incredibly lucky that the cancer was found later on in my pregnancy so that Connie had the chance to arrive safely. She is my miracle child. 

But then we experienced further heartbreak. In June 2023, My dad, who was a massive part of my support system helping look after the kids while I was in hospital, had been told he had three months to live after his cancer returned.  

We had only 17 days together and I was devastated to lose him. There was so much trauma happening around me at a time I was supposed to be enjoying motherhood. 

I am now on a five-year surveillance programme, which means I have blood tests and yearly scans. My aim now is to live as healthy and happily as possible and raise awareness about stoma use. 

It’s been a tough road – I have been verbally abused for changing my stoma bag in a disabled toilet, which left me feeling scarred by it all. 

To celebrate, two and a half years after the diagnosis, I got ‘lucky’ tattooed on my arm – now every time I look at it, I’m reminded of everything I survived. 

I have been raising money for Macmillan and Cancer Research UK with sponsored walks and I am raising awareness about ultra-processed foods online – I want younger generations to be mindful about healthy eating.

I am part of the purple sticker campaign, which aims to raise awareness and encourage businesses and public spaces to improve disabled toilet accessibility. 

The doctors and the support I have had have been incredible, and I am now in counselling as I process what I have been through. 

But going through something like that – it stays with you. It’s traumatic. 

I still get anxious when I have to go to the hospital. It was the worst thing that could have happened but I had the best outcome.  

And for that I am ever grateful. 

As told to Sarah Ingram.

Do you have a story you’d like to share? Get in touch by emailing jess.austin@metro.co.uk. 

Share your views in the comments below.

Walking along the riverbank in Cheshire in January 2021, I suddenly became aware that I could smell smoke. I knew what was about to happen next… 

Right on cue, I felt a tightening in my chest and my breathing beginning to rapidly decline. An emergency call and a trip to the resuscitation department was sure to follow. 

This experience is nothing new for me. In the last four years, I’ve been rushed to hospital by ambulance more than 20 times and been admitted to intensive care four times – but it’s always scary to see how fast an asthma attack like this takes hold of me. 

And yet, if one thing changed, many of my attacks could so easily be avoided. 

So, when I heard that Asthma + Lung UK were calling on the government to fund a national public campaign to raise awareness of the impacts of air pollution caused by wood burning, I knew I had to speak up. 

By helping people make more informed choices and educate them on how to reduce their own contribution to air pollution, people like me wouldn’t have to suffer so much. 

I was first diagnosed with asthma at the age of 11. I had mild asthma throughout my teens and used a preventer and reliever inhaler but generally I could play sports and lead an active life. 

Wood burning stoves weren’t much of a trigger back then. Not like they are now.  

However, since I caught Covid in 2020 and developed long Covid as a result, my asthma has become much worse. My symptoms now come on very quickly and include feeling very short of breath. 

Up until then, I’d been able to live a full and unrestricted life. I loved my job as a midwife, and doing outdoor exercise – such as running, horse riding and paddle boarding – used to be a big part of what made me happy. But almost overnight that all changed. 

Suddenly going for a short walk became a real challenge and because my asthma attacks became more frequent it really affected my job. 

Things like smoke on patients’ clothing affected me more easily, and I had to be very careful to avoid people with viruses and other respiratory infections.

I had to start working non-clinically, then from home and eventually, due to my severe asthma and long Covid symptoms, I had to give up doing a job I loved. 

As a result, I had to spend many months back at my parents’ house as I needed extra help, which meant I forfeited a lot of my freedom and independence too. 

With my attacks becoming more frequent, I started keeping a hospital bag at home, packed and ready for emergencies because the impact could be so sudden.  

A lot of the time I’ve been too ill to leave the house, but even going out for a short 100m walk is important for my physical and mental recovery. 

But these walks don’t always end happily. And that one by the river back in early 2021 is a prime example. 

On that day, my asthma was triggered by some of the narrowboats having wood burning stoves. The smell, or more specifically the air pollution that the stoves created, caused an asthma attack so severe that I was in hospital for two weeks.  

Even now spring is in the air, I remain pretty isolated. I can’t open my windows and feel the sunshine due to the residual heavy layer of smoke from nearby wood burners, or dare risk a walk outdoors. 

Instead, I’ve had no choice but to buy a treadmill so that I can still get some exercise at home but all I really want is a bit of fresh air.  

More and more homes have wood burners these days – or at least it certainly seems that way to me as I’m confident that I’m seeing smoke coming out of more chimneys lately – and for the good of both my health and the planet, that’s a problem that needs to be fixed. 

While road transport is still one of the highest causes for harmful small particle air pollution in the UK, recent research has revealed that the pollution caused by lighting fires (domestic burning) in our homes has more than doubled over the past 10 years. 

So, though I really don’t want to have to ask anyone to change their lifestyle because of my asthma, I don’t think I have any choice.  

We really need to raise awareness about the risks of wood burning stoves and open fires because I don’t think a lot of people realise the health risks they pose. 

I was surprised to discover the impact that lighting fires is having. Normally that’s something you’d associate as being a problem in cities where there’s lots of traffic, but it’s becoming a problem everywhere and we must act. 

Until wood burners are phased out gradually, people like me with serious health conditions will continue to be triggered. 

I have been on steroids for four years, but I remain hopeful that my health will improve over time – once me and my severe asthma team can find the right balance of medication – but until then, every day continues to be a struggle. 

I look forward to a future where air pollution from wood burning stoves no longer blights my health and that of so many others with lung conditions. And what keeps me going is the thought that one day I might enjoy life to the fullest again.  

Do you have a story you’d like to share? Get in touch by emailing jess.austin@metro.co.uk. 

Share your views in the comments below.