By Emma Elsworthy Leaving dirty dishes in the kitchen and posting social media updates hinting the house is occupied are amongst the most common home security hacks adopted by Brits. Researchers also found other savvy holidaymakers allow neighbours to park on their driveway, and put the recycling out for them on bin day. Other tactics include putting paperwork …

By Gemma Francis Parents spend the equivalent of six days a year dealing with ‘domestic dramas’, a study has found. Getting the kids to go to bed, convincing them to eat what is put in front of them and putting a stop to sibling rows means mums and dads face 23 minutes a day of tantrums and arguments. …

Low interest rates are forcing Brits to switch traditional savings for more quirky investments – including books, vinyl records and TOYS. First editions by famous authors top the alternative investment chart, followed by collectable coins, toys, antiques and classic vinyl. Stamps, designer clothes, works of art and classic cars also appear on the list, which emerged from a …

By Rob Knight Modern kids stop believing in magic aged six – two years earlier than their parent’s generation, according to research. Researchers found youngsters start doubting the existence of magic and creatures like unicorns, fairies and elves at this age. While mums and dads, who were eight years old when they felt the same way, think children …

By Emma Elsworthy Sausage and mash, steak pie and beef roast dinner are among the evening meals – enjoyed by DOGS, according to a survey. Researchers looking into the dietary habits of the nation’s canines have revealed the top 20 list of ‘dog’s dinners’ – ones which are meant to be enjoyed by humans but which regularly find …

by Gemma Francis Waiting around for your other half causes 30 arguments a year, a survey has found. Millions admitted to regularly falling out with their partner because a lack of organisation and leaving things to the last minute means they are often left hanging around for their other half. And it’s usually women who are to blame …

By Emma Elsworthy Millions of British holidaymakers are replacing postcards with ‘boastcards’, according to research. Seven in 10 people admitted they no longer send or receive the traditional paper postcards, preferring to share holiday memories online instead. And 90 per cent of adults said the only reason they post on social media while on holiday is to boast …

By Gemma Francis An extra scoop of ice cream or slice of cake, a last-minute take-away – and throwing a sickie have been named among Brit’s top 50 guilty pleasures. Researchers found almost nine in ten regularly treat ourselves to a guilty pleasure – with the average adult indulging in a little bit of what they fancy, up …

– WITH PUZZLE By Gemma Francis It’s a parent’s nightmare – losing your child’s favourite toy, but can you find the missing dolly in this latest puzzle to sweep the web? The brainteaser shows children enjoying their summer holidays on the beach, but a missing dolly is hiding in the crowd of excited youngsters. The puzzle was created …

By Emma Elsworthy The Sunday tradition of sitting down to a roast dinner with the family is a thing of the past, a study has found. Just one in five of the 2,000 adults polled regularly sit down to the feast of a roast each weekend. More than a fifth simply say they aren’t bothered about eating a …