Energy use patterns from smart meter data could be used to help identify whether people are suffering from conditions such as dementia and depression, a new report has shown. Changes in daily energy usage could, in the future, give vital clues to gradual and sometimes unseen changes in people’s behaviour caused by these illnesses, if the user consents. …

Brits have revealed their fantasy pub quiz team, including Professor Brian Cox, David Attenborough and Stephen Fry – with GARY LINEKER for the sports round. Dame Judi Dench was the top pick for the TV and movies round, while Stephen Fry was good for a double – topping the list in both history and general knowledge. Radio DJ …

A seven-year-old boy is set to be a star in the culinary world – after seeing the stuffing-flavour KETCHUP he designed go on sale ahead of Christmas. Berty came up with the idea of a tomato ketchup flavoured with onions, sage and parsley to give the taste of a festive stuffing. It also has a sprinkling of breadcrumbs …

Brits are ditching the ‘no pain, no gain’ approach to health and fitness in favour of activities they get a kick out of. A study of 2,000 adults found more than eight in 10 consider enjoyment to be the key to long term success. While 55 per cent don’t think you should have to suffer through strenuous exercise …

The average Brit has spent more than £1,000 on home improvements to make their property more inviting and comfortable since the first lockdown began this spring. A study of 2,000 adults found they have forked out an average of £239 on new homewares and furniture and £893 on decorating since March. And 46 per cent admitted this is …

A shocking new report has revealed parents’ fears over their children drinking sugary soft drinks. A study of 1,000 parents of three-11-year-olds found 82 per cent feel there is too much sugar in drinks targeted at youngsters. More than half (53 per cent) will only allow their child a fizzy drink on a special occasion, and 68 per …

Dog walking, and selling old clothes and tech are among the ways adults are starting a ‘side hustle’ to make money for Christmas and beyond. A study of 2,000 adults found a third expect to have a shortfall of £239 on average this festive period. And 13 per cent anticipate being £500 or more short of what they …

A top children’s talent agent believes there’s a huge gap in the market – for non-binary child actors. Mark Jermin is a leading manager at the helm of theatre schools across the UK, with clients working in commercials, as well as for Disney, Netflix and the BBC. He thinks casting directors are becoming much more open to diverse …

The UK is still a nation of traditionalists when it comes to pastimes – with reading, walking, eating out and gardening among the most popular hobbies. A study of 2,000 adults revealed they enjoy an average of three hobbies per week, dedicating more than eight hours to them. This amounts to 416 hours a year or 26,208 hours …

Brits have revealed their biggest property turn offs – with dark and small areas, overgrown gardens and dirty trainers left lying around among the worst. Research of 2,000 adults revealed a listing which doesn’t have enough photos and no video content is also likely to put off potential buyers. Not having a floorplan, rooms decorated in garish colours …