Latest news with #Les
The Advertiser
3 days ago
- Climate
- The Advertiser
Winter swimmers not afraid to brave the cold in the name of better health
While most of us are trying to stay rugged up indoors, swimmers all over the country are braving icy temperatures to take regular dips in winter. While winter swimming may not be for the faint of heart, those who enjoy it swear by its health and social benefits. Les Bryant, 84, has been enjoying regular winter swims for half a century. Read more from The Seniorthe The resident of the Illawarra region in NSW joined the Coledale Oysters Winter Swimming Club 40 years ago, having been a member of the Cronulla Polar Bears for the previous 10 years. Every Sunday, Les takes the plunge in the Coledale ocean pool. He said swimming helps him stay fit and believes regular dips in the salt water offer a range of physical benefits. But what really keeps him coming back is the sense of camaraderie. He has made some great friends at the club, which was established 60 years ago. Following each swim, he looks forward to catching up with members for a good chat and a nice warm bowl of soup at the Coledale RSL. Les was stoic when asked how he steeled himself against the cold. "It's not too bad. We rug up [before and after the swim] and then we think of going back to the soup," he said. While some members like to plunge straight into the water, Les prefers to splash himself to get a feel for the temperature before diving straight in. He also enjoys the chance to take part in competitions, including the annual South Coast Championships. George Katakouzinos, 61, of Tasmania, said he hated the cold water prior to forming the Derby Winter Swimming Club in 2023, but taking regular dips in cold water has made a huge difference to his wellbeing. George decided to start the group after moving to the island state from Sydney, saying it felt like a "very Tassie thing to do". The group swims at Lake Derby. George likes to swim at about 7am in the morning. He estimated the water temperature at this time ranged from 4-8 degrees in the winter months. He said the first time he took the plunge, the cold shock was so intense he was only able to stay in the water for about 15 seconds, but his body has become more acclimatised to the temperature over time. He now stays in the water for about 10 minutes. So, if it can get that uncomfortable, why does he do it? He said he had read many books about the benefits of cold water swimming for mental and cardiovascular health, and he loves the way he feels after his cold water dips. "Obviously, you've had a bit of discomfort, and then you come out [of the water] and you've got all these feel-good endorphins coursing through your body, and you just feel great for the rest of the day," he said. Melbourne Open Water Swimming Club members enjoy ocean swims year-round and aren't about to let the cold weather stop them. Group secretary, Con Lagos said the club was founded about six years ago when the public pools were closed due to COVID. Con first developed an interest in cold water after his therapist suggested cold showers would help with his stress and anxiety. He found the showers made a clear difference to his mental wellbeing. When he started taking ocean swims, the salt water and sense of full immersion took things to another level. "It's actually quite addictive... You wouldn't just do it because it's good for you, [well] you do, but it's easier, because , you know, afterwards, you feel great," he said. But Mr Lagos recommended that people should take time to get accustomed to the open water environment and the water temperature, as there are some risks to ocean swimming. He said it is best to try to limit swims to about five minutes at first. Those swimming in cold weather may want to try immersing themselves in relatively shallow water to help get used to the temperature before trying to swim. "Put your head down, you know, in the water. Make sure you... get your breathing right, because it's all about breathing." Mr Lagos is happy to give advice to anyone interested in receiving tips on how to approach cold water open ocean swimming. He can be reached at 0487-678-787. Share your thoughts in the comments below, or send a Letter to the Editor by CLICKING HERE. While most of us are trying to stay rugged up indoors, swimmers all over the country are braving icy temperatures to take regular dips in winter. While winter swimming may not be for the faint of heart, those who enjoy it swear by its health and social benefits. Les Bryant, 84, has been enjoying regular winter swims for half a century. Read more from The Seniorthe The resident of the Illawarra region in NSW joined the Coledale Oysters Winter Swimming Club 40 years ago, having been a member of the Cronulla Polar Bears for the previous 10 years. Every Sunday, Les takes the plunge in the Coledale ocean pool. He said swimming helps him stay fit and believes regular dips in the salt water offer a range of physical benefits. But what really keeps him coming back is the sense of camaraderie. He has made some great friends at the club, which was established 60 years ago. Following each swim, he looks forward to catching up with members for a good chat and a nice warm bowl of soup at the Coledale RSL. Les was stoic when asked how he steeled himself against the cold. "It's not too bad. We rug up [before and after the swim] and then we think of going back to the soup," he said. While some members like to plunge straight into the water, Les prefers to splash himself to get a feel for the temperature before diving straight in. He also enjoys the chance to take part in competitions, including the annual South Coast Championships. George Katakouzinos, 61, of Tasmania, said he hated the cold water prior to forming the Derby Winter Swimming Club in 2023, but taking regular dips in cold water has made a huge difference to his wellbeing. George decided to start the group after moving to the island state from Sydney, saying it felt like a "very Tassie thing to do". The group swims at Lake Derby. George likes to swim at about 7am in the morning. He estimated the water temperature at this time ranged from 4-8 degrees in the winter months. He said the first time he took the plunge, the cold shock was so intense he was only able to stay in the water for about 15 seconds, but his body has become more acclimatised to the temperature over time. He now stays in the water for about 10 minutes. So, if it can get that uncomfortable, why does he do it? He said he had read many books about the benefits of cold water swimming for mental and cardiovascular health, and he loves the way he feels after his cold water dips. "Obviously, you've had a bit of discomfort, and then you come out [of the water] and you've got all these feel-good endorphins coursing through your body, and you just feel great for the rest of the day," he said. Melbourne Open Water Swimming Club members enjoy ocean swims year-round and aren't about to let the cold weather stop them. Group secretary, Con Lagos said the club was founded about six years ago when the public pools were closed due to COVID. Con first developed an interest in cold water after his therapist suggested cold showers would help with his stress and anxiety. He found the showers made a clear difference to his mental wellbeing. When he started taking ocean swims, the salt water and sense of full immersion took things to another level. "It's actually quite addictive... You wouldn't just do it because it's good for you, [well] you do, but it's easier, because , you know, afterwards, you feel great," he said. But Mr Lagos recommended that people should take time to get accustomed to the open water environment and the water temperature, as there are some risks to ocean swimming. He said it is best to try to limit swims to about five minutes at first. Those swimming in cold weather may want to try immersing themselves in relatively shallow water to help get used to the temperature before trying to swim. "Put your head down, you know, in the water. Make sure you... get your breathing right, because it's all about breathing." Mr Lagos is happy to give advice to anyone interested in receiving tips on how to approach cold water open ocean swimming. He can be reached at 0487-678-787. Share your thoughts in the comments below, or send a Letter to the Editor by CLICKING HERE. While most of us are trying to stay rugged up indoors, swimmers all over the country are braving icy temperatures to take regular dips in winter. While winter swimming may not be for the faint of heart, those who enjoy it swear by its health and social benefits. Les Bryant, 84, has been enjoying regular winter swims for half a century. Read more from The Seniorthe The resident of the Illawarra region in NSW joined the Coledale Oysters Winter Swimming Club 40 years ago, having been a member of the Cronulla Polar Bears for the previous 10 years. Every Sunday, Les takes the plunge in the Coledale ocean pool. He said swimming helps him stay fit and believes regular dips in the salt water offer a range of physical benefits. But what really keeps him coming back is the sense of camaraderie. He has made some great friends at the club, which was established 60 years ago. Following each swim, he looks forward to catching up with members for a good chat and a nice warm bowl of soup at the Coledale RSL. Les was stoic when asked how he steeled himself against the cold. "It's not too bad. We rug up [before and after the swim] and then we think of going back to the soup," he said. While some members like to plunge straight into the water, Les prefers to splash himself to get a feel for the temperature before diving straight in. He also enjoys the chance to take part in competitions, including the annual South Coast Championships. George Katakouzinos, 61, of Tasmania, said he hated the cold water prior to forming the Derby Winter Swimming Club in 2023, but taking regular dips in cold water has made a huge difference to his wellbeing. George decided to start the group after moving to the island state from Sydney, saying it felt like a "very Tassie thing to do". The group swims at Lake Derby. George likes to swim at about 7am in the morning. He estimated the water temperature at this time ranged from 4-8 degrees in the winter months. He said the first time he took the plunge, the cold shock was so intense he was only able to stay in the water for about 15 seconds, but his body has become more acclimatised to the temperature over time. He now stays in the water for about 10 minutes. So, if it can get that uncomfortable, why does he do it? He said he had read many books about the benefits of cold water swimming for mental and cardiovascular health, and he loves the way he feels after his cold water dips. "Obviously, you've had a bit of discomfort, and then you come out [of the water] and you've got all these feel-good endorphins coursing through your body, and you just feel great for the rest of the day," he said. Melbourne Open Water Swimming Club members enjoy ocean swims year-round and aren't about to let the cold weather stop them. Group secretary, Con Lagos said the club was founded about six years ago when the public pools were closed due to COVID. Con first developed an interest in cold water after his therapist suggested cold showers would help with his stress and anxiety. He found the showers made a clear difference to his mental wellbeing. When he started taking ocean swims, the salt water and sense of full immersion took things to another level. "It's actually quite addictive... You wouldn't just do it because it's good for you, [well] you do, but it's easier, because , you know, afterwards, you feel great," he said. But Mr Lagos recommended that people should take time to get accustomed to the open water environment and the water temperature, as there are some risks to ocean swimming. He said it is best to try to limit swims to about five minutes at first. Those swimming in cold weather may want to try immersing themselves in relatively shallow water to help get used to the temperature before trying to swim. "Put your head down, you know, in the water. Make sure you... get your breathing right, because it's all about breathing." Mr Lagos is happy to give advice to anyone interested in receiving tips on how to approach cold water open ocean swimming. He can be reached at 0487-678-787. Share your thoughts in the comments below, or send a Letter to the Editor by CLICKING HERE. While most of us are trying to stay rugged up indoors, swimmers all over the country are braving icy temperatures to take regular dips in winter. While winter swimming may not be for the faint of heart, those who enjoy it swear by its health and social benefits. Les Bryant, 84, has been enjoying regular winter swims for half a century. Read more from The Seniorthe The resident of the Illawarra region in NSW joined the Coledale Oysters Winter Swimming Club 40 years ago, having been a member of the Cronulla Polar Bears for the previous 10 years. Every Sunday, Les takes the plunge in the Coledale ocean pool. He said swimming helps him stay fit and believes regular dips in the salt water offer a range of physical benefits. But what really keeps him coming back is the sense of camaraderie. He has made some great friends at the club, which was established 60 years ago. Following each swim, he looks forward to catching up with members for a good chat and a nice warm bowl of soup at the Coledale RSL. Les was stoic when asked how he steeled himself against the cold. "It's not too bad. We rug up [before and after the swim] and then we think of going back to the soup," he said. While some members like to plunge straight into the water, Les prefers to splash himself to get a feel for the temperature before diving straight in. He also enjoys the chance to take part in competitions, including the annual South Coast Championships. George Katakouzinos, 61, of Tasmania, said he hated the cold water prior to forming the Derby Winter Swimming Club in 2023, but taking regular dips in cold water has made a huge difference to his wellbeing. George decided to start the group after moving to the island state from Sydney, saying it felt like a "very Tassie thing to do". The group swims at Lake Derby. George likes to swim at about 7am in the morning. He estimated the water temperature at this time ranged from 4-8 degrees in the winter months. He said the first time he took the plunge, the cold shock was so intense he was only able to stay in the water for about 15 seconds, but his body has become more acclimatised to the temperature over time. He now stays in the water for about 10 minutes. So, if it can get that uncomfortable, why does he do it? He said he had read many books about the benefits of cold water swimming for mental and cardiovascular health, and he loves the way he feels after his cold water dips. "Obviously, you've had a bit of discomfort, and then you come out [of the water] and you've got all these feel-good endorphins coursing through your body, and you just feel great for the rest of the day," he said. Melbourne Open Water Swimming Club members enjoy ocean swims year-round and aren't about to let the cold weather stop them. Group secretary, Con Lagos said the club was founded about six years ago when the public pools were closed due to COVID. Con first developed an interest in cold water after his therapist suggested cold showers would help with his stress and anxiety. He found the showers made a clear difference to his mental wellbeing. When he started taking ocean swims, the salt water and sense of full immersion took things to another level. "It's actually quite addictive... You wouldn't just do it because it's good for you, [well] you do, but it's easier, because , you know, afterwards, you feel great," he said. But Mr Lagos recommended that people should take time to get accustomed to the open water environment and the water temperature, as there are some risks to ocean swimming. He said it is best to try to limit swims to about five minutes at first. Those swimming in cold weather may want to try immersing themselves in relatively shallow water to help get used to the temperature before trying to swim. "Put your head down, you know, in the water. Make sure you... get your breathing right, because it's all about breathing." Mr Lagos is happy to give advice to anyone interested in receiving tips on how to approach cold water open ocean swimming. He can be reached at 0487-678-787. Share your thoughts in the comments below, or send a Letter to the Editor by CLICKING HERE.
Daily Record
5 days ago
- Business
- Daily Record
Inside the Rangers takeover as Andrew Cavenagh lifts lid on life-changing phonecall and names three reasons he said yes
The new chairman met the media after the club's EGM and revealed why he has taken on the challenge The Big Apple Bears Rangers Supporters club in New York was just a short cab ride away on 1st Avenue. If Andrew Cavenagh had known - he might have popped in for a pint to celebrate. Because it wasn't far away in a Manhattan cafe back in October that he got the call he says changed his life. A New York banker, Les Allan, phoned him shortly before Cavenagh was going to a baseball game at the Yankees stadium. Little did he know at that point that Ibrox in Glasgow would soon become his new favourite sports ground. Almost immediately, Cavenagh got in touch with Paraag Marathe at the San Francisco 49ers and the wheels were set in motion for their Rangers takeover. The health insurance billionaire went face-to-face with Gers punters at the club's EGM where their 51 percent purchase of the club was rubber-stamped. Cavenagh spoke impressively to shareholders at a city hotel, with authority, decisiveness and humour. After that, he headed for Govan to meet the media. And the 68-year-old didn't just lay out his plans to make Rangers the number one club in Scotland again. He talked passionately about being blown away by Ibrox and its fanbase. He revealed that going to Celtic Park for a 3-2 victory in March was one of the best experiences of his life. And of course, Cavenagh recalled the moment he was first asked if he'd be interested in taking charge of Rangers. He said: 'I was on the upper east side of Manhattan outside a coffee shop about to go to a New York Yankees game. I've known about Rangers forever as a football fan. 'So when the phone call came to ask if I'd have an interest, it was a lightning bolt moment for me. The call was from Les, a banker in New York. I had met him six months prior and he knew our group was interested in a rare but good opportunity in football. 'Les called me and I said absolutely. Three seconds later I was on the phone to Paraag. There are many things about this club that are attractive. 'But the big three are the supporters - the breadth and depth of the fanbase is incredible. We've not seen many other clubs in Europe with this sort of scope and passion. 'Ibrox is an incredibly magical place to attend as a supporter. And the competitions in which we play, the league, the cups and Europe. 'It's a physical experience when you walk upstairs at Ibrox. You walk up the marble stairs to the Blue Room and in the trophy room in particular you can just feel the history. 'There's no other way to describe it. You walk in and instantly feel indebted to the people who have come before you. 'But you also have the desire to do everything you possibly can, not just to improve the history, but also improve the trajectory.' This isn't a deal Cavenagh, his investment group and the San Francisco 49ers have rushed into. From that first call in October, it took eight months to get the deal over the line. But in that time, the American has been learning about Rangers, their supporters and the club's heritage. He's seen Ibrox at its best, on European nights against Fenerbahce and Athletic Bilbao - and at its worst when fans staged a protest before a St Johnstone game. He says he's ready for any future flak that might come his way if things go wrong. And in terms of the club's intense rivalry with Celtic, he got a first hand experience of it when Barry Ferguson's team pulled off a rare victory there towards the end of last season. Cavenagh said: 'Look, I've been a football fan all my life. I've been to five World Cups and five European Championships. I've been to countless matches. I did 14 new stadiums in the last year. 'The last few months have been an incredible experience for me. One of my favourite moments in life is the five minutes before the match kicks off when you can feel the electricity. 'I was lucky to go to the match at Parkhead and it was incredible. I learned a couple of new phrases and gestures when I was there but it was a fantastic experience. 'It was the first match where our fans were allowed back in and we had 2500 fans there. But they were incredibly loud and vocal in showing their support. 'It was one of the best football experiences of my life. Am I ready for criticism at some point? Well, I was a goalkeeper growing up and we had a play-off match. 'My coach said everyone is going to make mistakes today but there's a special thing that keeps track of yours - it's called a scoreboard. 'Being a keeper teaches you that you can have big moments where you have to make big decisions - and you have to live with the ones you get wrong. So I'm prepared.' Cavenagh's first job was to play his part in appointing a new head coach at Ibrox and he chose Russell Martin ahead of other candidates. So what was it about the former Southampton boss that made him the right fit for Rangers. Cavenagh is convinced he's got the right man. He said: 'There were four criteria we looked at for head coach. One, somebody that would coach what we think is the right style of play or game model. 'Two, someone would build the culture and the way we think it needs to be built. Three, someone who will develop talent. And four, someone who will win matches. 'Russell was the standout across all of those metrics, unanimously among our team. And we are thrilled to have him as our head coach.' But Martin will be judged on results, both domestically and in Europe. Earlier in the day at the EGM, Marathe told fans there will be no honeymoon period for the new gaffer. And he's already been faced with the huge task of getting past Panathinaikos in a Champions League qualifier next month. You get the impression that Cavenagh isn't here for Europa League football. He wants to dine at Europe's top table but insists it's NOT imperative that Martin and his team reach the group stage this season. He said: 'I look at this pretty simply - we have plans for anything. It's not as if we're banking on that (CL qualification) and if it doesn't happen then there is some sort of a problem. 'That is not the case at all. But it IS our goal. As we increase revenue, which comes from the Champions League, then we get to re-invest that in the club. 'That is why it's the goal from both a sporting perspective and the revenue model perspective. We'll try to get that every year but we have to get through three sets of matches and that won't be easy. But it's important because it brings more revenue. It will always be our benchmark.'
Fashion Network
5 days ago
- Business
- Fashion Network
Repair specialist SOJO makes move into France, adds two permanent hubs in London
SOJO, the repair specialist that's partnered with a number of major names in the UK, is continuing its expansion via a move into the French market as legislation there means France is one of the most sustainability-focused retail markets globally. It's also boosting its physical presence in the UK with permanent hubs at both Westfield malls in London. First, France. It opens its first non-UK location at Westfield's Les 4 Temps shopping centre in Paris soon, the news coming just 18 months after its very first permanent location opened in London's Selfridges. The four-year-old business, which was founded by CEO Josephine Philips, has been building steadily and has partnered with M&S, Paul Smith, Margate Howell, Ganni, Reiss, Nobody's Child and Arket, among others, in its domestic market. While brand partnerships haven't yet been developed in France, it's clear that the French market is one of the most sympathetic to repair businesses and something of a no-brainer when choosing a first international market to move into. And given SOJO's close Westfield links, opening in a Westfield mall in Paris also makes sense. As mentioned, French legislation has made the country a trailblazer in the drive for sustainability in the retail market and that includes mandating manufacturers to make products repairable and subsidies for repairs of clothing and footwear. This is clearly important given that the unsubsidised cost of repair can often be prohibitive and can mean new fast-fashion items are a cheaper alternative. Meanwhile, looking back at its core UK market, the company also said on Monday that it's 'set to redefine the fashion experience' with the launch of SOJO 'Fix & Fit'. This is 'an innovative repair and alterations service opening at both Westfield London and Westfield Stratford City on 25 June. It marks SOJO's permanent presence at both Westfield centres and 'introduces a modern, accessible solution for clothing repairs and alterations, right in the heart of the high street'. Shoppers at the two malls can visit the firm's Fix & Fit workshop for a free consultation, 'where expert tailors are on hand to take care of all alterations. Finished items can be collected in person or delivered to their door'. The company also continues to offer its services online. SOJO said that insights from Westfield's latest How We Shop: From Play To Purpose report reveal that 45% of Boomers and 31% of UK women are actively seeking more opportunities to repair or refill products – 'a clear sign of shifting values away from fast fashion and towards long-lasting, conscious consumption'. Katie Wyle, Director of Shopping Centre Management, Northern Europe at Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield, said: 'We're proud to be bringing SOJO to both of our centres – a move that reflects exactly what our customers are asking for: more sustainable, service-led retail experiences… Fix & Fit offers a smart and stylish solution to fashion longevity, perfectly aligned with Westfield's commitment to shaping a more conscious retail future. With 59% of UK consumers seeking more reuse and repair options over the next five years, this partnership is both timely and essential.'
Buzz Feed
18-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
30 Treats From Queer-Owned Businesses
An 'omw to the gay bar' T-shirt you can just point to anytime someone asks what your plans for the day are. It's made from 100% cotton, so it's super soft and breathable — basically the perfect graphic tee to toss on whether you're actually en route to the bar or just there in spirit. A delicate bead ring if you want to add some texture to an existing ring stack or wear it on its own to accessorize without feeling too flashy. A jar of shower steamers that'll hug your nose with the zingy scents of peppermint, eucalyptus, and menthol. They'll put a pep in your step on weekday mornings that cruel 6 a.m. alarm says it's time to start the day. A raspberry-flavored Taste of Space Lip Milk so you can treat your pout to a hydrating, nourishing formula that truly feels outta this world. Wear it solo or use it as the first step in your lip care routine to create a smooth base for the rest of your products! A snack fries variety pack because snacking may technically be a year-round occasion, but summertime snacking is in a league of its own. Hello, is there anything better than a good munch sesh on the beach after you spent an hour jumping waves in the ocean? Or lying in a pool float while you get your crunch on? I think NOT! A bold nameplate necklace with your name— I mean, yourrrr... *sighs* Sorry, but we both know you are, in fact, unhinged. This necklace has a gorge curb link chain and happens to be nickel-free and hypoallergenic, too. A ridiculously cool handmade ceramic ramen bowl by Mud Witch to brighten up your kitchen (and your eating experience) in the best way. They're both dishwasher- and microwave safe (love!) and are available in tons of stunning colors that you get to choose yourself. A pair of TomboyX boy shorts from their Progress Pride Stripes Collection — these wedgie-free undies have a stay-put waistband that's silky soft, so you won't have to worry about 'em riding up or pinching unexpectedly. The smooth cotton-blend fabric has just enough stretch to keep you comfy all day long, so don't be surprised if you buy these in multiples. A vision board book filled with gorgeous pictures and quotes that'll allow you to manifest your dreams and goals for the future in the form of a fun and relaxing craft. Goodbye doom scrolling, I have European sights to imagine seeing and delicious treats to envision myself eating. A medium-hold soft clay pomade designed with short hair in mind. Formulated with natural waxes and plant proteins, this pomade will help you style your hair perfectly without making it crunchy, sticky, or stiff! A tomato leaf and moss–scented candle to make you feel like you're in a sun-drenched garden. Ahhhh! And with its 50-hour burn time, you can look forward to many hours of its relaxing leafy-green scent. A Boy Smells candle in the scent "Les" that smells like a fruity floral daydream floating through NYC's Lower East Side. Think black currant, peach blossom, and vanilla all mingling together in one cozy vibe. Its bold zest will quickly show you why this is a bestselling candle. Plus, it comes in Boy Smells' iconic black glass jar that looks *chef's kiss* on any shelf. A pearl highlighter to deliver an iridescent glow that catches the light jussst right, giving your cheekbones, collarbones, and anywhere else you apply it a dazzling shimmer. The texture is blendable and buildable — meaning you can go from a subtle sparkle to a blinding beam of light depending on your vibe. An antioxidant cleanser that's like a feast for your skin. It's packed with nourishing and soothing ingredients like green tea water and fruit extracts, which help brighten and improve your complexion. Plus, its silky lather is so good, it'll have you counting down the minutes till the next time you wash your face. A "The Future Is Queer" patch for anyone who lives for tarot and would love to add a lil' accent to their denim jacket or backpack. Be prepared for all the "Oooh, where did you get that?" inquiries. Martyr!, a NYT bestseller about a queer young man named Cyrus Shams, an orphan and son of Iranian immigrants, who discovers a family secret that takes him to New York City to visit a terminally ill artist. A bottle of delicious wine you'll buy with the intention of sharing with your friends at your next game night, but ultimately open before anyone even gets there. Whether you're a Riesling or Rosé girlie, Zē Wines has got you covered. A zodiac constellation cross stitch so you can decorate your space with a special handmade piece while repping your star sign. (Where are my fellow "it's almost our birthday szn" Cancers at?!) A Telfar Puff Shopper Bag I have no doubt you've been ogling over since its debut. The quality of these designer bags is so great; it's something that could be passed down for generations! And while the style options for their iconic shopper bags are endless, this puffer version really just takes things to a new level. TL; DR: get yours asap! 👏🏾 A delicious trio of jams you will likely kick yourself for not buying sooner the second you taste them. I mean, how did you make it this far in life without topping your morning toast with raspberry redcurrant geranium? How could you have possibly enjoyed yogurt bowls without cherry rosehip hibiscus? And a bowl of vanilla ice cream without lavender blackberry rhubarb?! Well, that's just criminal. A rainbow "Love Thy Neighbor" sticker from Gay Pride Apparel that says what we're all thinking. With a vinyl finish tough enough for water bottles, laptops, or even your bumper, this little reminder packs a big inclusive punch. It's weather proof, bubble free, and honestly... just good vibes in sticker form. So just stick it, mean it, and live it. 🏳️🌈 Beekman 1802's Bloom Face Cream, a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer that's like a probiotic smoothie for your face. Packed with goat milk and niacinamide, it helps boost hydration and strengthen the skin barrier — and reviewers say it leaves their skin looking brighter and feeling way softer. Bonus: the unique pump ~blooms~ open like a little skincare flower, and yes, it's as satisfying as it sounds. A seeds of liberation print to serve as a beautiful reminder that (*cue High School Musical*) we are, in fact, all in this together. The art style is simply stunning and will certainly breathe life into any room — even the closet Merlin and Arthur from BBC's Merlin refuse to come out of. A Shark Tank-featured Poplight, the ultimate renter-friendly light upgrade that's super easy to install with its adhesive stickers and *built-in* leveler. AND they're completely wireless, as they come with a rechargeable battery that lasts up to nine hours. The best part? You can control the sleek, modern light from an app on your phone! A sweet, Gemini-inspired (!) herbal tea made with hibiscus, elderberries, lavender, milk thistle, and rose petals. In addition to providing you with a little bit of vitamin C, these ingredients can also help improve digestion, boost your immune system, support sleep, and so much more! Plus, it's aromatic as heck, so you'll love smelling it as much as drinking it. The TikTok and Instagram-viral One/Size waterproof setting spray to seal your look like Rose on that door in Titanic — totally unwavering. Whether your go-to is a one-step concealer or full glam, this amazing transfer-proof and sweatproof spray (seriously, look at that gif below, I'm in awe) provides the perfect mattifying finish. MUAs love it! A pair of adorable cherry earrings because they'll make you smile every time you look in the all the compliments you'll get when you step out of the house won't hurt either. So really, there are no bad days when you've got these on. These cuties are handmade with Japanese glass beads, and reviewers say they're comfy and lightweight, too! A ~cheeky~ embroidered cap featuring the juiciest of peaches! If dad jokes are your cup of tea, then this punny hat is a warm mug of Earl Grey. A gorgeous marbled glass coaster set that'll elevate your coffee table's ~aesthetic~ while preventing those pesky water ringlets from ruining the surface. Each one is carefully hand-cut, fused, and sanded so they're truly one of a kind! They also come with silicone bumpers on the bottom so they won't scratch your table. An Alder New York face mask trio aka your skincare mood ring in pouch form. Each single-use mask tackles a different concern — one brightens, one clarifies, and one smooths — so you can treat your face based on how it's feeling that day. They work in just 3–5 minutes, come in travel-friendly packets, and are perfect for your next lazy Sunday self-care lineup.
The Irish Sun
18-06-2025
- The Irish Sun
Heartbreaking first picture of dad-of-two who ‘always had smile' after horror Monaghan motorbike crash as tributes pour
THIS is the heartbreaking first picture of a man "who always had a smile or a wave" following his tragic death in a motorcycle collision. Les Reyburn was sadly 2 Les Reyburn sadly passed away following the collision on Monday Credit: Social Media 2 Les has been remembered as someone who 'always had a smile' by mourners The dad-of-two, who was aged in his 40s, was from the Bawn area of Co A notice online read: "Tragically following an accident on Monday, 16th June 2025. Pre-deceased recently by his beloved Father Leslie Snr. "Les will be dearly missed by his heartbroken family, his treasured children Kayleigh and Callum, his loving mother Mary, partner Pamela and her sons Rhys and Tyrion, brother Alan and sister-in-law Sandra, the entire family circle and his many good friends." Tributes have been pouring in for Les as news of his sad passing continues to devastate the local community and his wider group of friends. READ MORE IRISH NEWS A Bawn community group said: "Will be sadly missed in the Bawn area, always had smile or a wave when passing by, condolences to all the family and friends. RIP Les." Bad Examples Motorcycle Club said: "Would like to pass on our sincere condolances to the family of Les Reyburn on his sad and untimely passing. May he Rest In Peace." Another motorbiking club added: "Throttle Mad MCC would like to pass on our sincere condolences to the family of Les Reyburn on his sad and untimely passing. May he Rest In Peace." A mourner said: "We are so incredibly sad to hear of your heartbreaking loss and we send you all of our absolute love and support right now. You are all in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time. MOST READ ON THE IRISH SUN "Pamela, Rhys and Tyrion, our hearts are broken for your loss and for the pain that you are going through right now. Gardai and RSA measures aimed at driving crash deaths on Irish roads "May Les ride high, surrounded by the angels on his journey to heaven." Another added: "There are no words to express how incredibly sad the untimely passing of Les is." A third said: "So sad to hear Leslie has been taken so suddenly. My condolences to his mother Mary, his children, partner and all his family." FUNERAL DETAILS Les will be reposing at his home from 12pm until 8pm on Friday. His family has requested that the house remains private at all other times. His funeral will take place in Crossduff Parish Church at 2pm on Saturday. And Les will be laid to rest alongside his father in the adjoining churchyard following the mass. Gardai have appealed for witnesses of the fatal crash on Monday to come forward. A garda spokesperson said: "Road users who may have relevant camera footage (including dash-cam) and were travelling in the area between 1pm and 1:30pm are asked to make this footage available to investigating Gardaí. "Anyone with information is asked to contact Castleblayney Garda Station on 042 9747900, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or any Garda station."
