Author: Sam Allcock

Peter Henlein, a locksmith from Nuremberg, Germany, is believed to have made the first portable timepiece in 1505. Henlein called his invention the Nuremberg Egg. It was bulky, spring-powered, and not particularly accurate, as it did not have a minute hand. The Egg was more of a status symbol than a reliable watch. Precisely 520 years later, a watch can still tell a great deal about its owner’s social status to those who can read its subtle messages. Can you guess your date’s occupation just by looking at their watch? Celebrities have long preferred certain watch brands. NBA superstar LeBron…

South Korean home appliance company Coway has been honoured at the iF Design Awards 2025 for its NOBLE 2.0 Air Purifier series, reinforcing its reputation as a global leader in design innovation. The NOBLE 2.0 Air Purifier received the accolade in the prestigious Product Design category, which evaluates entries based on idea, form, function, differentiation, and sustainability. The award marks Coway’s 18th consecutive year of recognition at the event. Established in 1953, the International Forum (iF) Design Award is regarded as one of the most prestigious design competitions in the world. Products across multiple industries are assessed by an independent…

Introducing a nationwide self-sampling programme for cervical screening could help remove barriers to testing and improve access for under-served groups, according to a new study by experts at the University of Manchester. The research, published by Policy@Manchester, highlights how self-sampling methods—such as vaginal swabs or a newly developed urine test—could help tackle disparities in screening uptake. The authors argue that a national rollout of these alternatives could support government efforts to address health inequalities and ensure more people benefit from early cancer detection. Addressing Declining Screening Rates Cervical cancer accounts for 2% of all new cancer cases in UK women,…

US-based luxury fragrance house MIND GAMES is set to make its UK debut with an exclusive retail partnership at Selfridges. The collaboration marks a major step in the brand’s international expansion, bringing its distinctive collection of scents to British consumers for the first time. MIND GAMES, renowned for its fusion of perfumery and strategic storytelling, aims to challenge conventional fragrance creation. Inspired by the game of chess, each scent is designed to evoke emotions, stimulate thought, and unfold like a carefully planned move on a chessboard. A Strategic Partnership in Luxury Retail The partnership between MIND GAMES and Selfridges represents…

VitrA Tiles has officially brought its Aksaray solar power plant into full operation, reaffirming its dedication to sustainable energy solutions. As a key brand within the Eczacıbaşı Group, VitrA Tiles continues its transition towards renewable energy sources. The completion of the Aksaray Solar Power Plant (SPP) follows the 3.5 MW rooftop solar plant commissioned in Bozüyük in 2023. With a 30 MWe/36 MWp capacity, this investment ensures that more than half of the electricity used in its Turkish operations this year will come from green energy sources. Powering the Future with Renewable Energy The Aksaray SPP will generate enough electricity…

The Cheltenham Gold Cup is the pinnacle of National Hunt racing, drawing top-class horses, trainers, and jockeys to compete for one of the most prestigious titles in the sport. Held on the final day of the Cheltenham Festival, this Grade 1 steeplechase covers 3 miles and 2½ furlongs and features 22 fences. With millions of pounds wagered on the race each year, betting on the Cheltenham Gold Cup is an exciting opportunity for both casual and seasoned punters. Understanding Cheltenham Gold Cup Betting Markets Before placing a bet, it’s essential to understand the different types of wagers available: How to…

Students from Leeds College of Building have partnered with renowned artist Nicolas Dixon to create a striking football-themed mural at the GOALS soccer centre in Kirkstall. The large-scale artwork, which took two weeks to complete, was designed to transform a blank wall in the centre’s shooting area. The project was undertaken by an all-female group of City & Guilds Level 1 Painting & Decorating Diploma students, who volunteered their time despite challenging weather conditions. The initiative was made possible through the college’s long-standing relationship with GOALS and was aimed at providing students with valuable hands-on experience. Inspiration and Collaboration Leeds…

When Aisling Byrne travelled to Portugal in 2018 for an international showjumping competition, she expected a routine event. Instead, a tragic accident left her with devastating injuries and a grim prognosis—she would never walk again. Seven years later, she has defied all odds, not only regaining her mobility but returning to competitive showjumping. Byrne, a finance firm director and seasoned equestrian, had been riding a horse she had cared for over several months. However, as a tractor sped past, the animal reared in panic, lost its balance, and fell backwards onto her. The impact crushed her midsection, leaving her with…

With spring on the horizon, homeowners preparing their gardens for summer 2025 now have a new range of planters to consider. Forest Garden, the UK’s largest manufacturer and distributor of wooden garden products, has launched its latest collection, designed to add a stylish touch of greenery to any outdoor space. The company’s new shiplap planter collection is aimed at gardeners of all levels, whether they are enhancing a large driveway, adding colour to a compact courtyard, or revamping a spacious patio. Each planter is crafted from sustainable British timber, reflecting Forest Garden’s commitment to eco-friendly solutions. Marketing Manager Jenny Davis…

A new edtech platform aiming to transform how families find international schools is launching this month, with industry experts calling it the biggest disruption to the K12 sector in a generation. The platform, named Doris, uses generative AI to match families with international schools based on personalised conversations with an AI assistant. The UK-based startup is led by tech entrepreneur Nik Higgins, who previously founded and sold The Ambassador Platform for a multi-million-pound sum. Doris will debut in Singapore, where several leading international schools – including Dulwich College Singapore and Singapore American School – have already signed up. How Doris…

Montessori-inspired beds attract growing interest among US families prioritising independent sleep. Montoddler, a brand focused on fostering independent sleep habits through its Montessori-style toddler beds, has completed a highly successful first quarter in the US, expanding to 41 states. Florida, New Jersey, and Texas have seen the highest demand, with Montoddler’s Montessori house beds and floor beds proving especially popular in twin and full sizes. The company’s strong early growth is evident in its 92% customer satisfaction rate and a 50% revenue increase during the Black Friday period. Over the past three months, Montoddler’s production team has worked 1,296 hours…

Counter-drone technology firm D-Fend Solutions has announced its expansion into the UK with the establishment of D-Fend Solutions AD U.K. Ltd. and the opening of a new office in London. The move aims to strengthen the company’s presence in the UK’s defence, security, and aviation sectors, where demand for advanced counter-drone solutions is growing. The new office, located at Upper Woburn Place in Euston, places the company in close proximity to key corporate, governmental, and institutional stakeholders. With easy access to major transport links via Euston Station and Russell Square, the location is set to enhance business operations and collaboration.…