A picturesque green square at the heart of a leafy,.Bury St Edmunds village has been renamed ‘Poo Square’ and designated as an exclusive toileting area for local pets and pooches.
The decision, which was announced with great fanfare by the hardline Tory town council,.aims to address the rising problem of dog muck (shit) being deposited on the neighbourhood’s pavements.
Bury residents shocked
Unsurprisingly, the council’s move has left some residents up in arms. Local resident Henrietta Pish, chair of the Bury St Edmunds chapter of the campaign group,.Residents AGainst Everything (RAGE) told this reporter, “We’re all hopping mad around here and our arms are up, too. Gawn are the days of leisurely strolls and peaceful picnics in our once-beloved square.
Now we, the local residents, as well as a parade of unwelcome visitors to the area,. must dodge an obstacle course of dirty,.dirty dogs relieving themselves on every patch of grass. The aromatic fragrance of nature has been replaced.by an overwhelming perfume of doggies’ dirty business and the once-vibrant square has been transformed into a cats’-piss utopia.”
Despite RAGE’s complaints, other enthusiastic pet owners, armed with plastic bags and scoopers,.proudly parade their four-legged companions to the square, treating it as a prestigious destination for their pets’ potty breaks.
Local businesses – quick to jump on any old bandwagon, have even started offering specially designed doggie waste bags, featuring delightful caricatures of cute pups and pets. Eeeeew!
Lava-Tory
While some residents have found humor in the absurdity of the situation, Pish, herself a Conservative, continued to rail against the decision from her position atop a soapbox at the gateway to the square.
With her arms still up in the air, she continued her complaint through a squealing loud hailer: “What’s next, eh?” came her echoey remonstration, “Tours of the most significant piles of poop in the town, for heaven’s sake?”
While the controversy rages on, ‘Poo Square’ stands as a remarkable testament to the Brits’ love of animals and our desire to accommodate our furry, mucky-arsed friends.
Many of us call England home, but we don’t fully know too much about it, or its history. With this in mind, we want to share ten facts we’ve discovered about England, to help you get a better understanding of the place and why it should be considered as somewhere to explore this year.
So, whether you’re looking to book a staycation by the coast, or something more inland, here are ten interesting facts about England you can discuss on your road trip to your accommodation within one of the holiday parks UK sites are offering.
Scroll to discover more.
Did you know… the largest county in England is Yorkshire?
That’s right, of all the counties that create England, Yorkshire is the largest, taking up 11% of the land mass that makes up England. With such a vast amount of land to explore within the county of Yorkshire, it will come as no surprise to find out that there’s a variety of landscapes to be found and explored.
Did you know… there’s a cheese rolling competition?
A place called Cooper’s Hill in Gloucester holds an annual cheese rolling competition, where a 9lbs round Double Gloucester cheese is rolled down the hill, and competitors run after it. The first person to make it to the bottom of this very steep and dangerous hill, wins the cheese.
This annual event has been taking place each year since 1826!
Did you know… the World Wide Web (WWW) was invented in England?
The birth of the World Wide Web arrived in 1989, after being discovered by English scientist, Tim Berners-Lee.
Did you know… many world-renowned scientists were born in England?
England is the birthplace of many world-renowned scientists, including Sir Isaac Newton in 1643 and Professor Stephen Hawking in 1942.
Did you know… London hasn’t always been England’s capital city?
In 871, the Hampshire city of Winchester was the capital city of England. Back then, when King Alfred reigned as King of Wessex, he chose Winchester to be the capital city. It was during the 10th century that all seven Anglo-Saxon kingdoms united and merged to become England. Over time, this led to London becoming the new capital city of England.
Did you know… wherever you are in England, you’ll always be in reach of the sea?
No matter where you find yourself within England, you’ll always be within 115km of the sea, thanks to England having a vast coastline.
The village furthest from the beach/sea is a place called Coton in the Elms, in Derbyshire. The quaint village is 113km from its nearest coastal point.
With this, no matter where you live or holiday within England, a beach day is only a matter of a drive away…
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With your newfound facts, will you be amazing your kids or friends as you drive to your English staycation destination? Or will you be saving them for a quiz night? The choice, as always, is up to you!
Men’s sexual health is often under-discussed due to societal taboos, stereotypes, and misinformation. This silence fosters an environment in which myths are propagated, and men’s sexual well-being is undermined, leading to various problems, including mental distress, relationship difficulties, and diminished overall health.
Sexual health is not merely the absence of disease or dysfunction; it’s a state of physical, mental, and social well-being in relation to sexuality. It involves a respectful and positive approach to sexual relationships, as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences. For men, this encompasses not only physiological aspects such as erectile function and reproductive health but also psychological and emotional aspects like body image, self-esteem, and the capacity to establish meaningful interpersonal relationships.
Beyond the silence and stigma, we must strive to build a culture where men’s sexual health is valued and openly discussed and where adequate resources are available to help men understand and navigate the intricacies of their sexual health journey. Whether it is understanding the importance of routine health check-ups or addressing more complex issues like sexual performance anxiety or erectile dysfunction, knowledge and open communication are key.
In this article, we will confront the taboos and stereotypes surrounding men’s sexual health, from the pressures of masculinity to the many misconceptions about age and sexual function. In the process, we hope to foster a greater understanding of the diverse aspects of men’s sexual health, encourage open and honest conversations about these topics, and provide valuable resources for those seeking assistance or information. This is a journey towards embracing the full spectrum of men’s sexual health, recognising it as essential to a healthy, fulfilling life.
Understanding Men’s Sexual Health
Men’s sexual health encompasses various aspects, including physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It involves sexual function, desire, satisfaction, and the ability to have fulfilling relationships. However, due to societal norms and expectations, discussions around men’s sexual health are often limited and shrouded in stigma. This lack of open dialogue can have detrimental effects on men’s overall well-being.
One important aspect of men’s sexual health is understanding that it is not solely defined by performance or the ability to achieve and maintain an erection. Sexual health is a multifaceted concept encompassing various factors, including communication, intimacy, body image, and self-esteem. By broadening our understanding of men’s sexual health, we can challenge the stereotypes and misconceptions perpetuating harmful narratives.
Social and cultural factors also influence men’s sexual health. The expectations placed on men to conform to traditional notions of masculinity can create significant pressures and contribute to the culture of silence surrounding men’s sexual health. Breaking free from these expectations and embracing a more inclusive definition of masculinity is crucial for fostering healthier attitudes towards men’s sexual well-being.
The Culture Of Silence: Consequences And Causes Of Toxic Masculinity
The culture of silence surrounding men’s sexual health has far-reaching consequences. By perpetuating taboos and stereotypes, men are discouraged from seeking help or discussing their concerns openly. This can lead to feelings of shame, isolation, and anxiety, which can further exacerbate sexual difficulties and hinder overall well-being.
One of the underlying causes of this culture of silence is toxic masculinity. Toxic masculinity refers to rigid gender norms and expectations prioritising dominance, physical strength, and emotional stoicism. These expectations often discourage men from seeking help, expressing vulnerability, or discussing sensitive topics such as sexual health. Breaking free from the constraints of toxic masculinity is essential for creating an environment where men feel empowered to address their sexual health concerns without fear of judgment or ridicule.
Breaking The Silence: The Importance Of Open Dialogue
Breaking the silence surrounding men’s sexual health is crucial for promoting overall well-being and fostering healthier attitudes towards masculinity and sexuality. Open dialogue allows individuals to share their experiences, seek support, and access relevant information and resources. Through these conversations, we can challenge the taboos and stereotypes that hinder progress in men’s sexual health.
Creating safe spaces for open dialogue is essential. This can be achieved through community initiatives, educational programs, and healthcare settings that prioritise inclusivity, respect, and confidentiality. By encouraging open conversations about men’s sexual health, we can help individuals overcome the barriers that prevent them from seeking the help and support they need.
The Role Of Masculinity In Men’s Sexual Health
Masculinity plays a significant role in shaping men’s attitudes towards their sexual health. Traditional notions of masculinity often emphasise performance, dominance, and sexual prowess, creating unrealistic expectations and perpetuating harmful stereotypes. These expectations can lead to anxiety, stress, and performance-related issues.
Challenging the narrow definitions of masculinity and promoting a more inclusive understanding of what it means to be a man is essential. Embracing a healthier and more holistic view of masculinity allows men to prioritise their sexual well-being without feeling the need to conform to unrealistic standards. By redefining masculinity, we can create an environment that supports open conversations about men’s sexual health, free from judgment and stigma.
Men’s Sexual Health And Aging: Dispelling The Myths Of Erectile Dysfunction
As men age, misconceptions and myths often surround their sexual health, particularly regarding erectile dysfunction (ED). Many believe that ED is an inevitable part of ageing, leading to feelings of shame and inadequacy. However, it is essential to dispel these myths and provide accurate information about the various factors contributing to sexual difficulties as men age.
While age can be a contributing factor to sexual changes, it is not the sole determinant of sexual function. Lifestyle factors, underlying health conditions, medications, and psychological well-being all play a role in men’s sexual health. By addressing these factors and seeking appropriate support, men can better navigate the changes that come with ageing and maintain a fulfilling and satisfying sex life.
If you’re struggling with ED and are considering using Sildenafil as a treatment, you may have been wondering: “Is Sildenafil effective for ED?” To answer that question and to get started with a consultation with an expert pharmacist, head over to Oxford Online Pharmacy.
Navigating The Journey: Resources And Support
Navigating the complex landscape of men’s sexual health can be challenging, but numerous resources and support are available. From healthcare professionals specialising in men’s sexual health to online communities and educational materials, individuals can find the guidance and information they need to address their concerns.
It is important to seek support from qualified professionals who can provide evidence-based advice and treatment options. Healthcare providers specialising in men’s sexual health can offer personalised solutions tailored to individual needs and circumstances. Additionally, online resources and communities can provide a supportive environment for individuals to share their experiences, seek advice, and find comfort in knowing they are not alone.
Bottom Line
Men’s sexual health is a vital aspect of overall well-being that is often overshadowed by taboos and stereotypes. By challenging societal norms, embracing open dialogue, and promoting a more inclusive understanding of masculinity, we can create an environment where men feel empowered to address their sexual health concerns without fear or shame. Remember, seeking support and information is a sign of strength, and there are resources available to help navigate the journey towards a healthier, more fulfilling sexual life. Let us break the silence, dispel the myths, and support one another on this journey towards embracing the full spectrum of men’s sexual health.
Plumbing system issues can often be entirely unexpected. That’s what makes dealing with them quite nerve-wracking.
However, there are a few things you need to know about each type of plumbing problem, so you can better understand what to do in these situations and avoid unnecessary damage.
Read on to find out more!
Common reasons why plumbing issues arise
There can be various factors, but most importantly, it can be a combination of things.
For example, pipes might get clogged or experience low pressure due to hard water and the absence of a water softener.
Things like baby oil, olive oil, moisturiser, and even oil-based soap can build up inside the drain and cause clogs or slow-draining water.
Pouring bleach or other corrosive substances, even drain cleaners, can damage your plumbing system over time and cause clogs, the buildup of dangerous fumes, leaks, or even a burst pipe.
You might find it surprising, but using the toilet as waste disposal is also a common reason. As a rule of thumb, things like candy wrappers, rubber gloves, or food leftovers have no place in the WC.
Whatever the reason, you must remember one thing: acting quickly to avoid water damage, costly repairs, and a more extensive water bill is essential.
Plumbing repairs
Pipe ruptures and broken pipes are serious issues that must never be taken lightly.
For example, there’s not only water damage and bills to consider. Various pests can also enter your home through a damaged plumbing system.
Typically, these kinds of problems are best handled by calling a professional plumber. Even if you possess the necessary tools and are pretty handy around the house, it can still be quite a risk, for improper repairs can lead to even more significant problems.
That’s why it’s best to shut off the water flow from the main valve and find the nearest licensed plumber with the know-how and specialised equipment to solve the issue reliably.
If there is a small pipe hole, or you must apply a short-term solution to prevent home flooding, try installing a new coupler. But follow the rules:
Before embarking on this task, remember that there are different glue types for each type of pipe, so be sure to choose the right one.
Before you apply the glue to your pipes, remember to prime them. Plus, make sure you shopped for a suitable coupler – for PVC or CPVC pipe type.
Don’t attempt drilling by intuition if you want to access a pipe behind a wall. Drill the wall only after you check for pipes and cables with a stud finder or endoscopic camera. Drilling through wiring can cause electrocution and put on risk your life.
You can follow a simple rule to detect leaks– just check your winter water usage. You might be looking into a serious problem if, during the colder months, the amount exceeds 3000 gallons per person.
Also, you can check your water meter a few hours after no amounts have been used. If there’s an increase, that’s a sign you might leak.
Dealing with a running toilet
A constant drip from your toilet tank can make you feel insane at midnight.
Most often, the reason for your nightmares is damage or defective parts (for instance: a flapper, an overflow pipe or the water level). It’s often caused by an old, faulty toilet flapper since low-quality rubber decays over time (or mineral deposits build-up due to hard water).
Whichever the reason, If not fixed immediately, the problem can cause water damage and additional costs in terms of water bills.
Luckily, the toilet mechanism is comparatively simple, easy, and quick to fix, even by a DIY plumbing enthusiast. However, if you have to replace the water bowl, the professionals’ plumbing knowledge is a must.
Fix a leaky faucet or a shower head
Another common issue almost every home stumbles upon is a leaky faucet or tap.
Ignoring the problem will throw money down the drain and add to your water bills. Even worse, it’s entirely possible you can stumble upon a significant water damage problem.
Before you proceed with the repairs, ensure you’ve turned off the water to the faucet and use either a drain plug or a rag to avoid a screw or a washer going down the drain and ruining everything.
You will then have to disassemble the faucet and inspect each part to determine what exactly needs replacing. And if you need to replace a washer or an O-ring, ensure they’re an exact fit.
Another reason behind a leaky faucet issue could be low water pressure. That is why the water pressure meter should be an inevitable part of every toolbox.
If the water pressure is normal, search for the problem in the fixture itself. The plumber’s tape is handy when you need a short-term solution.
Or, if your aesthetic sense doesn’t allow “patching up” the fixture, go straight to a local DIY store and buy the exact-match seals or replacement parts.
A leaking showerhead can waste about 500 gallons of water annually, equivalent to 60 showers. And when you add that to your water bill, you can easily see why leaving the issue unattended is a bad idea.
Fortunately, many showerhead problems can be fixed simply by ensuring a tight connection using pipe tape and a wrench.
Why it’s best to call a licensed plumber
The best rule of thumb is to call a licensed plumber and take care of the problem promptly and from the first time.
You might be confident in doing minor repairs, easy or partial remodelling, maintenance tasks, or preventative checks concerning your plumbing. But if you lack experience, practical, legal knowledge and tools, it’s much better to entrust your plumbing maintenance to a qualified plumber.
Working with a pro is also advisable if you’re looking to sell your home quickly and efficiently, for a proper plumbing system will only increase its market value.
Handling DIY maintenance projects beyond your experience may cause plumbing disasters with extensive water damage, the necessity of redoing the job, leaking pipes (and the list goes on and on). Then, calling a plumber to restore your home will be a must to make it livable again.
Hiring a professional is a win-win solution. A pro will help minimise the errors while maximising the reliability of the results. Plus, many offer a guarantee for their work’s quality, another added benefit.
Conclusion
So, now that you know more about how to handle different types of plumbing problems, you can be confident that you will react adequately should they occur.
However, in the end, it’s best to call a licensed plumber to handle anything more extensive than replacing a toilet flapper or fixing a leaky showerhead.
I like eggs. Eggs on toast, egg and chips, boiled eggs etc. Does that make me an eggslut?
Well, let’s see…
We all know what an egg is, and the word ‘slut’ actually describes a woman with low standards of cleanliness. Quite why a man (or a transgender for that matter) with low standards of cleanliness doesn’t qualify is not made clear. So an ‘eggslut’ is, let’s say… a person with low standards of cleanliness in respect of their relationship with eggs.
Slutty side up
I don’t know about you, but when I cook eggs, there is usually some residual mess involved. A pan with some escaped albumen burnt to the outside edge, some butter spatter up the tiled hob surround, and some cooked albumen stuck harder than Gorilla glue to the edge of the egg slice. And all that is before I even try to flip the egg. So on the basis of hygiene, I am definitely an eggslut.
Over-easy-lay eggs
However, whether or not I would invest millions of dollars in a restaurant chain based on my sloppy egg-making is a different matter entirely, but that is exactly what the proprietors of the international food chain ‘eggslut’ did – with great success. Founded in New York city in 2017, eggslut has been pleasing its egg-loving clientele with its signature dish “The Slut”, a coddled egg on pureed potatoes, as well as numerous artisan egg sandwiches such as ‘the Fairfax’, a cage-free soft scrambled egg, chive, cheddar cheese and onion sanger with sriracha mayo in a warm brioche bun. Mmmmm!
However you like your eggs, we can agree that no amount of them is too much. And just like a woman who enjoys sex, dirty or otherwise, with one partner, or many, there is absolutely nothing wrong with being a slut.
Ever looked up into the sky and seen a horse? What about a guitar? A lawnmower?
If the answer is yes, then you have either dropped a tab of LCD or you are suffering from pareidolia.
Pareidolia is the scientific term for the perception of familiar objects seen in random places, most famously in the tea leaves at the bottom of your teacup. Recognizing shapes or famous faces in the branches of a tree or in cloud formations is a common phenomenon.
Have you guessed what it is yet?
The word ‘pareidolie’ was first phrased by the 19th Century German psychiatrist, Karl Ludwig Kahlbaum in his paper ‘On Delusions of the Senses’ after he saw what he believed to be the arse of Theodoric the Great in a half-eaten jam doughnut. Dead celebrity paedophile and amateur artist, Rolf Harris, suffered from pareidolia from the age of five when he was first diagnosed with having three legs.
So when, on a long afternoon out boozing with his mates, Brian Festoon, 57, a retired cheese grater from Tannington in mid-Suffolk, looked up into the open skies above the Greengrocer’s Arms, and saw the image of a beautiful naked woman drawn out in the clouds, he knew straight away that he had a touch of the Pareidolias.
Cloudy boob
Dropping his pint of Rosie’s Pig cloudy cider, and reaching into his jeans pocket, Brian pulled out his phone and fumbled with it until he had engaged its camera mode. Carefully aiming the lens at the whispy seductress above him, he snapped the shutter and captured the most perfect rendering of an altocumulus arse ever seen by a human man.
Nothing lasts forever though, and before Brian’s mates could make it outside, the vapoury vixen had dissipated and dispersed across the breadth of the hazy Suffolk Sky. Apparently, one of her tits was spotted over Framlingham later that afternoon.
If you’re looking for ways to alter your online casino gaming experience – fear not! There are plenty of innovative ways to take your gameplay to the next level. Whether it’s through stunning graphics or sound design, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to dive into the world of online casinos like never before.
Image credit: Unsplash
How To Increase Immersion While Playing Online Casinos
Typically, online casino gaming refers to the act of playing casino classics via the internet using a computer or mobile device. For instance, the online casino at Paddy Power offers slots, poker, and baccarat along with a myriad of other casino games. This form of gaming has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its convenience and accessibility.
While the readily available games are already immersive, you can always try to take it a step further. First of all, find a quiet and comfortable space where you can focus on the game without any distractions as it will allow for better concentration and engagement with the game. Once that is done, opt for games that you find more enjoyable to increase the likelihood of becoming fully engrossed in them.
In addition, take advantage of features such as live dealers or chat rooms which allow for interaction with other players. This not only adds to the social aspect of online gaming but also helps create a more realistic atmosphere just like brick-and-mortar casinos.
One of the most important aspects of online casino gaming is the incorporation of high-quality graphics along with sound. The visual and auditory experience can make or break your immersion in a game, which ultimately affects the enjoyment and likelihood to return.
Make sure to adjust visual settings such as screen size and graphics quality to ensure optimal display of the game as graphics play a significant role in creating an immersive experience for you. This is because high-quality images that reflect real-life scenarios can help draw you efficiently into the game’s world. Additionally, well-designed animations can enhance gameplay by providing feedback on various in-game situations entertainingly.
Sound also plays a crucial part in enhancing immersion when playing online casinos, so consider wearing gaming headphones or investing in high-quality speakers accordingly. Sound effects like bells ringing when hitting jackpots or cards shuffling add to the feeling of being present at a physical casino.
Music that fits with the theme of each game further enhances this immersive experience by transporting players to different worlds. Alternatively, you can create your own custom playlist to enjoy alongside any game you choose to play.
Image credit: Unsplash
By implementing these tips while playing online, you can fully engulf yourself in each game thereby enhancing your overall gameplay experience! Many tactics can help you thoroughly immerse yourself in the world of online casino gaming, from paying attention to graphics and sound to enjoying live games. So why not give some different approaches a try today and see which ones are most effective for you? Happy gaming!
Thousands of Brits are done mourning in their long, non-EU passport queues. They’re on the hunt for makeshift shortcuts: combing through their family trees and digging up their parents’ birth certificates in a desperate quest to find some distant Irish relative. One drop of Irish in the blood could be enough to claim citizenship if push comes to shove. Alternatively, it’s always worth a Google if you’re looking to naturalize, by law, and claim your Irish passport that way.
However, it turns out that bizarrely, Ireland proves to be a lot more than just a scapegoat for Brits with a hint of the Irish in their ancestry. Apparently, Ireland can offer more than just a maroon passport with EU status intact.
If you find yourself yearning for a change of pace and a whole lot of green, look no further than Ireland. We’re exploring the ins and outs of moving from the UK to the land of (actually decent) Guinness, four-leaf clovers (if you’re lucky), and buttered soda bread.
Embracing the “Craic”
When you arrive in Ireland, be prepared to dive headfirst into the “craic” – the Irish term for fun and entertainment. You’ll quickly realize that the Irish have an incredible sense of humor, so it’s essential to bring your wit with you. Master the art of banter, learn a few classic Irish jokes, and you’ll be welcomed into the fold with open arms (and maybe earn a cheeky pint of Guinness or two).
Adjusting to the Irish Accent
Ah, the Irish accent. It’s a symphony of melodic tones and rolling R’s voted one of the world’s most attractive accents. While you might think you’ve mastered the Queen’s English, understanding the locals in Ireland puts your grasp of your own language to the ultimate test. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself nodding and smiling, pretending to understand, but don’t worry – it’s a culture shock north and southern English people find every time they venture to the other end of the country.
Don’t Skimp on The Legals
Now, let’s address the serious side. When navigating the legal aspects of moving to Ireland, immigration solicitors in Ireland aren’t just handing out these passports like candy. A trusty legal eagle will guide you through the extensive paperwork, ensuring a smooth transition to a new Irish life made more permanent. From visas to residency permits and eventually citizenship, they’ll handle the fine details so you can crack on with the craic (just Google it).
Tea, Potatoes, and… Rain?
One cannot discuss moving to Ireland without acknowledging a few of those classic cultural concepts. Yes, the Irish do love their tea, and potatoes are a staple of the diet. And let’s not forget the weather! Rain is as much a part of Irish life as the rolling green hills. Pack your best raincoat, because you might not be queuing up for passport checks should you choose to go for citizenship after a while, but you will almost always be jogging out of the rain. Remember, an Irish rain shower is just nature’s way of reminding you to appreciate the moments of sunshine that follow.
Embrace the “craic,” prepare for a sprinkle of rain, and if you fall in love with Ireland along the way (and why wouldn’t you?), you don’t have to go it alone! Sláinte!
