Our round-up of the funny, fascinating and unusual stories this fortnight
More action please
Around 87 per cent of UK voters think homes that are more affordable to heat are ‘important’ or ‘very important’, according to a study by three of the country’s top universities.
Homes in the UK are notorious for losing heat, yet increased insulation and other measures can lower energy bills and decrease carbon emissions.
An online survey of 1,021 people revealed that there is a high level of concern about climate change with many thinking the government is not doing enough to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Brave Princess
Sitting alone on a bench in the spring sunshine, the Princess of Wales delivered the terribly upsetting news that she is undergoing treatment for cancer.
She somehow managed to share this very personal revelation with incredible bravery, composure and dignity. If we didn’t already know it, she showed the world what a magnificent Queen she’ll make one day.
We’re certain this strength and positive attitude will aid her recovery and we wish her health and healing.
RECYCLING A PIECE OF HISTORY
Anyone who’s ever splashed out on a special occasion dress knowing they’ll never wear it again will understand why House of Commons leader Penny Mordaunt is selling her iconic coronation frock.
But in her case, it does rather beg the question: who’ll be brave enough to wear the striking caped teal gown second time around? With 20 million people around the world watching in awe as Penny (50) held a 3.6kg sword for 51 minutes at last May’s ceremony, the next owner will struggle to pass it off as new. Or fib about where it came from!
FRYING HIGH
After carrying out secret taste tests across the UK, the National Federation of Fish Fryers has unveiled the best places in the country to buy your takeaway chippy tea. The Ship Deck in Caerphilly, South Wales, where a regular portion of cod and a medium portion of chips will cost you £9.35, took the top spot. Yarm Road Fish and Chips in Darlington, famed for its secret batter recipe, came second. Third was the Fish Works in Largs, Scotland, renowned for its fish finger butties.
Legacies of love
Two women who lost their lives to cystic fibrosis are helping to save others worldwide – with the help of little yellow ducks.
Clare Cruickshank (26) died in April 2013 waiting for a double lung transplant.
Her mum Ann Rowcliffe and Clare’s friend Emma created the Little Yellow Duck project, which celebrates its tenth anniversary this month.
Participants make and hide cute yellow ducks for people to find.
