The humble deck chair has been given a 21st century makeover
Solar panels and a battery pack are included in the high-tech prototype to keep electronics topped up.
While a drinks holder has also been installed as well as a built-in fan, and bespoke horn to spook greedy seagulls.
PayPal have created the modern seaside seat which Brits can visit from the 9th August in Brighton, following research which revealed one in five Brits shop on their phones or tablets – at the beach.
A poll of 2,000 adults found clothes and fashion (37 per cent) are among the top purchases, with food and drink (34 per cent) and gifts for others (24 per cent) also on the cards.
With nearly a fifth (19 per cent) spending between £51-75 when shopping online at the beach, with some spending up to £200.
Phones overheating (43 per cent) and a lack of WiFi (36 per cent) are among the things holding consumers back from a seamless scrolling experience on the beach.
While a lack of shade (31 per cent) and getting sand in the phone charger hole (23 per cent) are other inhibitors.
Consumer behaviour and retail expert Dr. Amna Khan, speaking in partnership with the brand, said: 'Smartphones have transformed nearly every aspect of our lives, from how we navigate our cars to how we manage our health and shop for essentials.
'This digital shift has made shopping anytime, anywhere second nature – even on the beach, positioning it as the next frontier for a tech refresh.
'The once simple beach experience is getting a long-overdue upgrade.
'With tech-enhanced deckchairs featuring innovations like built-in glare-blocking screens, beachgoers can now seamlessly blend relaxation with connectivity, reflecting the evolving expectations of today's digital-first lifestyles.'
The research also lifted the lid on all the factors people consider when picking a perfect beach spot, with shade (48 per cent) ranking as the top factor ahead of privacy (40 per cent) and proximity to the bar (36 per cent).
When it comes to beach nostalgia, buckets, spades and sandcastles are among the items 70 per cent associate with childhood trips to the seaside, with arcades and slot machines also featuring (52 per cent).
Striped deckchairs were cited by 41 per cent, with mini fridges containing snacks (29 per cent), solar panels for charging (21 per cent) and pop-out book holders (25 per cent) among the other creative add-ons people would like to see incorporated in the classic beach staple.
Dave Jones, head of consumer from PayPal, which has introduced a three per cent cashback incentive to help people put money back their pockets, added: 'We can see from our research that more and more people are bringing their phones to the beach, and their shopping habits too.
'That's why we've reimagined the classic deckchair with a modern twist, making it easier to stay connected and even earn cashback while soaking up the sun.'
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Scottish Sun
5 hours ago
- Scottish Sun
Dark underbelly of UK's new City of Culture plagued by soaring unemployment, ‘spiced-up' druggies & ‘roaming XL Bullies'
See the top 20 areas for unemployment below DOLED OUT Dark underbelly of UK's new City of Culture plagued by soaring unemployment, 'spiced-up' druggies & 'roaming XL Bullies' Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) CLOSED shops litter the ailing high street and "spiced up" junkies stumble around like zombies or openly inject drugs in dingy doorways. Bradford - this year's UK City of Culture - has a dark underbelly of high unemployment, petty crime and illegal substance abuse. 19 A man slouches on a bench in Bradford city centre, apparently heavily intoxicated Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Two large Bully type dogs are walked across a road without leads Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Student Vanessa Soydere, 18, came to the city from Turkey 13 years ago and hopes to find work there after she qualifies Credit: NB PRESS LTD It comes after The Sun laid bare the UK's unemployment capitals, with the Labour government telling thousands of Brits: those who can work should get a job. In May, the West Yorkshire city had 26,070 people claiming unemployment benefits, a rise on not only this time last year but also the previous month. Outside of London, it's only behind Birmingham (10.6%) and Luton (7.7%) for joblessness stats. Known as the "wool capital of the world" in its Victorian boom era, it's had a sad fall from grace. Locals complain that jobs are hard to find as high street stores, banks, and pubs close. JOB CENTRE Former ventilation fitter Timmy worked on the Broadway Shopping Mall opposite the Jobcentre before he was sent to prison and lost his livelihood. 'I've gone to the Jobcentre today because I've just got out of jail and want to get back to work,' he told The Sun. 'I'm normally self-employed, I'm a skilled air conditioning ventilation fitter, but it's looking to be pretty hard finding work in Bradford at the moment. The UK's top 10 unemployment hotspots This data, compiled by the ONS, shows the percentage of people in the Claimant Count for unitary and local authorities in the UK. The Claimant Count refers to the number of people claiming unemployment-related benefits, primarily Jobseeker's Allowance and Universal Credit, who are required to seek work. Birmingham (10.6%) Newham (8.5%) Barking and Dagenham (8.5%) Haringey (8.2) Brent (8.2%) Enfield (7.8%) Luton (7.7%) Bradford (7.5%) Hackney (7.5%) Waltham Forest (7.4%) Lewisham (7.3%) Wolverhampton (7.3%) Ealing (7.2%) Sandwell (7.2%) Tower Hamlets (7.2%) Oldham 7.0 % Croydon (6.9%) Slough (6.6%) Redbridge (6.5%) Lambeth (6.5%) 'Most of my work would be away from the city anyway. I've got all my tickets, fork-lift licence, driving licence, wagon driving licence, etc. 'I'm obviously looking for work but it is not easy. 'Them lot in the Jobcentre are offering jobs on basic wages in factories and stuff, but I'm skilled and I have a trade.' More than 1 MILLION migrants are claiming Universal Credit in Britain – with majority unemployed Unemployment in Bradford represents a 7.5 per cent rate, according to the latest figures. That is an increase of 230 claimants compared to the previous month and 420 compared to May 2024. The UK unemployment rate for people aged 16+ was 4.7 per cent in March-May 2025, according to the Office for National Statistics. Darley Street Market A recent boon for Bradford is the state-of-the art Darley Street Market, which opened its doors last weekend. The new market was buzzing with vendors and customers alike during The Sun's visit, and it had a vibrant atmosphere. It also has provided work for many Bradfordians, including Demi-Leigh Turner, 24, who is delighted to be behind the counter at Jake's Bakehouse in the market having been unemployed prior to its opening. 'It's brilliant to be working there and we are really busy,' said Demi-Leigh. 'It has been hard work, there is a lot of footfall at the market, but I'm loving it. 19 The new Darley Street Market opened this month Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Demi Leigh Turner works at the market and praised the opportunities there Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 There a multiple vacant business premises in the city centre Credit: NB PRESS LTD 'This is a real success story for Bradford. Everybody in there is happy.' However, just outside the market on a street bench on Darley Street was a "spiced-up" man in a drugged-up stupor, making an upsetting and unnerving sight for shoppers and parents with young children. Up the road, towards the old Oastler Shopping Centre and Market, which is now shuttered up due to the new relocation, there are down-and-outs hanging around. Two scruffy and skeletal men were wandering the streets, roll-up in hand and accompanied by a pair of XL bully-type dogs, off their leash. Another seemingly homeless guy was trying to flog a TV to passers-by. Bradford as City of Culture 2025 Bradford was named the UK City of Culture for 2025 due to its rich cultural heritage, diverse communities and innovative spirit. The designation was given by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. It means the West Yorkshire city gains access to funding to improve its infrastructure and arts facilities, and will continue to host events until the end of the year. Bradford won their bid in May 2022, beating County Durham, Southampton and Wrexham County Borough. More than a million people have engaged with the city's Culture projects so far this year, according to organisers. Its outdoor opening ceremony featured a performance by magician Stephen Frayne. The UK City of Culture programme began in 2013. Approaching our reporter with the screen in his arms, he asked for £10 for the goods. Beggers linger at traffic lights on busy junctions intimidating waiting motorists into handing over cash. And junkies openly take drugs in dingy shop doorways and litter-strewn alleyways before crashing out on benches or seeking out another store to shoplift. On Kirkgate, a once bustling shopping street, numerous loafers were hanging about swigging booze from cans and shouting at each other. One man had emptied the industrial bin beside the British Heart Foundation charity store and was messily rummaging through its contents. 19 A group of people drink alcohol Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Locals say the alcohol and drug problem in the city centre is getting worse Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Locals say they can't find work with businesses closing down Credit: NB PRESS LTD A charity shop volunteer said:'He doesn't care if he is making a mess. He is often doing this to look for things to sell on to buy drugs. 'He is very aggressive on some days. 'As soon as we put the bins out he is at them. He's after the coat hangers, they might fetch him a few quid." There was a distinct absence of any police officers patrolling the city centre. Cops raid large cannabis farm in landmark building By Mark Lister POLICE found a large cannabis farm at a landmark Bradford city centre building over the weekend. West Yorkshire Police were called to reports of a burglary at Sunwin House on Sunday. On arrival, a large cannabis farm was found. A 36-year-old man, who was arrested on suspicion of producing a controlled drug of class B, remains in police custody. Enquiries remain ongoing at the scene. Police attention has been focused on the side of the building, near Goit Side, with several force vehicles and an extensive cordon in place. A spokesperson for West Yorkshire Police said: "A 36-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of producing a controlled drug of class B, he remains in police custody at this time. "Police were called to reports of a burglary on Sunbridge Road. "On arrival, officers located a large cannabis farm. Enquiries remain ongoing at the scene." Sunwin House dates back to the 1930s, when it was constructed as a Co-operative emporium. More recently, it was used as a TJ Hughes department store and awarded a Grade II listing for its architectural significance. Since TJ Hughes shut its doors 15 years ago, the building has been mainly empty. But some locals still like the place. Former squaddie Jonny James, 32, was born and bred in Bradford and described living there as 'bloody brilliant'. 'I can't work at the moment though, due to my disability,' he says brandishing his badly scarred left arm which he damaged in a car crash. 'Before the accident I was in the Army, Royal Artillery. I'm on the sick now though. 'I don't mind living in Bradford, it has its good and bad sides, like a lot of places. 19 The shutdown Wilko store is among the major franchises having left the city Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 A man searches through litter from a large industrial bin Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Many residents say the city is rundown and there are few jobs to be had Credit: NB PRESS LTD 'I love the place because of the people.' Student Madison Kirby, 16, said: "There are not many opportunities for employment in the city centre as all the shops are shutting down. 'There are too many people and not enough jobs in Bradford.' Another student Vanessa Soydere, 18, came to the city from Turkey 13 years ago. 'I hope to find work in Bradford when I have finished my studies,' she said. 'Coming from Turkey to Bradford was obviously a bit different, but I've got used to it now. 'There are obviously some things that go on which are not nice and you do see some sights.' The Sun has approached Bradford City Council for comment. 19 Bradford is this year's city of culture, meaning it has access to extra funding to improve infrastructure Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 A beggar approaches motorists at traffic lights Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Student Madison Kirby, 16, said there are not many opportunities for employment in the city centre as all the shops are shutting down Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Parts of the city centre are very rundown Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Former squaddie Jonny James, 32, was born and bred in Bradford but is currently unable to work due to disability Credit: NB PRESS LTD 19 Former ventilation fitter Timmy Firth has just come out of prison and is looking for work Credit: NB PRESS LTD
Scottish Sun
7 hours ago
- Scottish Sun
Donald Trump hits course at Turnberry for second round of golf on visit to Scotland
DON THE COURSE Donald Trump hits course at Turnberry for second round of golf on visit to Scotland Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) DONALD Trump has teed off for a second round of golf this morning at his luxury Turnberry resort. The President was spotted out on the Ayrshire course sporting the USA white baseball cap he was wearing yesterday. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 8 Donald Trump has teed off for another round of golf at Turnberry Credit: AP 8 The President is sporting the same white USA baseball cap he was wearing yesterday Credit: AFP 8 The President has been joined by son Eric again this morning Credit: Getty 8 His other son Donald Trump Jr was also spotted on the course with wife Vanessa Credit: AFP The Republican leader arrived at around 11.06am at the coastal course in Girvan, Ayrshire. Police were seen patrolling the golf course as associates of Trump played a round of golf earlier in the morning. A huge motorcade of golf buggies arrived just before 10.40am. Trump was spotted driving his own golf buggie as he gave a wave to the media. He was also seen in action taking a chip shot onto one of the greens. The President is also joined by his son Eric again this morning on the Ailsa course, as well as his other son Donald Trump Jr. Today, he will meet European Commission Ursula von der Leyen for talks on the trading relationship between Europe and the US. The talks come ahead of discussions with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer on Monday, which are also expected to focus on the issue of trade. The UK and the US struck a trade deal recently, with discussions between the two men expected to focus on this - with reports suggesting Sir Keir will be looking for the US to cut the tariffs for British steel. The start of discussions show the US President getting down to business on what is a private, five-day visit to Scotland. Donald Trump touches down in Scotland On Saturday he was spotted playing a round at the famous Turnberry course, which he purchased back in 2014. A massive security operation was in place as the President played golf on the course. He drove his own golf buggy, but a heavy security presence saw Mr Trump flanked by a fleet of similar vehicles. Even before he took to the course, police officers and military personnel could be seen searching the area around the Trump Turnberry resort - which has had a metal fence erected around it as part of heightened security measures. No protesters were seen while he was golfing on Saturday - but hundreds of people gathered in both Edinburgh and Aberdeen for demonstrations against his visit organised by the Stop Trump Coalition. After spending some time at his South Ayrshire resort, the President will head to Aberdeenshire, where he is expected to open a second course at his Trump International golf resort in Balmedie. During his time in the north-east, Mr Trump is also due to meet Scottish First Minister John Swinney. 8 Donald Trump made an appearance at his Trump Turnberry golf course as he teed off this morning Credit: Reuters 8 A massive security operation was in place as the President played golf on the course Credit: PA 8 Police were seen patrolling the golf course as associates of Trump played a round of golf earlier in the morning Credit: AP
Glasgow Times
7 hours ago
- Glasgow Times
What invalidates home insurance? This habit puts you at risk
Making sure your home is protected is key to looking after your property and family comforts. However, experts have claimed that one habit could be putting your home insurance at risk. It's also a mistake that is more likely to happen during the summer months and shockingly one in 10 Brits say they do it. 🚨Looking for a place to rent? ⚠️ Fraudsters create fake listings on legitimate rental platforms to lure victims into rental scams ✅ You, or someone you trust, should always view the property before you make payment Find out more: — Action Fraud (@actionfrauduk) July 23, 2025 What invalidates house insurance? Leaving a key under the doormat or plant pot while away on holiday is one of the most common ways homeowners invalidate their home insurance. Heath Alexander-Bew, director at insurance provider Alan Boswell Group, explained: 'In many cases, in the event of a burglary or stolen possessions, there will need to be signs of 'forced entry' to make a valid, successful claim. 'By leaving a key to the property under a doormat or plant pot, homeowners make it easy for burglars to enter, potentially resulting in a declined insurance claim.' Instead, it is recommended to leave a key with a trusted friend or family member. Mr Alexander-Bew continued: 'Alternatively, invest in security measures such as a wall-mounted key safe which can only be accessed by someone who has the code. 'Always ensure your home is completely locked and secured before going on holiday, and do not leave any spare keys around.' Further advice suggests to never reveal on social media that your home will be empty. Why is house insurance important? Home insurance protects your home in case something unexpected happens. HSBC advises: 'Without cover, you risk having to pay for replacements or repairs if something happens to your home or belongings. This could be if they're damaged in a fire or a flood or if your things are stolen. Recommended Reading: 'With household insurance in place, if anything happens to your property or possessions that are covered by your policy, you'll be protected financially. 'If you're renting, you don't need to worry about buildings insurance, as this is your landlord's responsibility. 'But you should consider contents insurance to help cover the costs of replacing possessions if something happens to them.'
