A research study recently published in the Lancet reported that girls who received the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine at the age of 12 or 13 had an almost zero risk of dying from cervical cancer before the age of 30 years. Although cervical cancer is less common than many other cancers, it still claims around 880 lives every year in the UK.

Almost all cases of cervical cancer are caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of HPV, making it one of the few cancers that can be prevented through vaccination. Despite this success, however, many people still know very little about HPV or why vaccination is important. Knowing the facts about HPV vaccination can help parents understand why HPV vaccination is recommended for their children and encourage young people who may have missed their vaccination in school to take up the opportunity to be protected.

What is HPV?

HPV infection is common. Most people will become infected with it, usually without ever knowing this because infection often causes no symptoms.

The virus spreads through intimate skin-to-skin contact, including sexual contact. In most people, their immune system clears the infection naturally within a year or two, causing no long-term health problems.

Sometimes, however, HPV infection persists. Certain types of HPV, known as high-risk HPV, can gradually cause changes in cells that may develop into cancer years later. Because infection is usually symptomless, people can carry and spread the virus without realising it.

HPV is best known for causing cervical cancer but it also causes other cancers, including cancers of the mouth and throat, anus, penis, vulva and vagina. Other types of HPV cause genital warts, which are not cancerous but which can cause distress and sometimes require treatment.

Vaccination

Fortunately, highly effective HPV vaccines have been available in the UK since 2008. These vaccines protect against the HPV types responsible for most HPV-related cancers.

The vaccine does not contain the live virus and cannot cause HPV infection. Instead, it trains the immune system to recognise the virus so that it can prevent infection if a person is exposed to HPV in the future.

The HPV vaccine is offered free by the NHS to all children in Year 8, when they are 12 or 13 years old. Vaccinating children before they are exposed to HPV provides the greatest protection against HPV infection and the cancers it can cause.

Since 2019, both boys and girls have been included in the programme because HPV affects both sexes. Vaccinating boys not only protects them against HPV-related cancers but also helps reduce the spread of the virus in the population.

For most people, a single dose provides excellent protection. Anyone who missed their vaccination at school can usually receive it free through the NHS up to their 25th birthday.

The HPV vaccine is also recommended for certain other groups at higher risk from HPV infection such as people living with HIV.

The jab can cause side effects but these are usually mild and short-lived. The most common side effects are soreness, redness or swelling at the injection site. Some people may also experience a headache, tiredness or a mild fever for a day or two. Serious side effects are very rare, and the vaccine has an excellent safety record.

Falling cancer rates

Since the introduction of the HPV vaccination programme, rates of HPV infection in the UK have fallen dramatically — particularly among young people who have been vaccinated.

More recently, researchers have shown substantial reductions in cervical cancer itself, particularly among women vaccinated at the recommended age of 12 or 13 years.

The HPV vaccine is one of the greatest recent advances in cancer prevention. Few medical interventions can prevent several different cancers with a single injection.

As the latest research shows, vaccination is already saving lives and will protect future generations from thousands of preventable cancers.

Elimination

The success of the HPV vaccination programme depends on maintaining a high uptake. Although most parents choose to have their children vaccinated, uptake varies between different communities.

Some families may have concerns about vaccine safety or may simply not have enough information about HPV. Other children may miss school vaccination sessions because they were absent the day the vaccination was offered.

Providing clear, accurate information and making catch-up vaccination easily available are essential to ensuring that every child and young person has the opportunity to benefit.

The NHS aims to eliminate cervical cancer in England by 2040, building on the success of HPV vaccination and cervical screening programmes.

One of the reasons the HPV vaccination programme has been so successful is that it not only protects the people who receive the vaccine but also helps reduce the spread of HPV throughout the population. As more young people are vaccinated, HPV becomes less common, helping to protect those who are not vaccinated or in whom the vaccine was not effective.

Screening

The HPV vaccine does not protect against every type of HPV that can cause cervical cancer. This is why women should continue to attend their cervical screening appointments when invited even if they have been vaccinated.

Cervical screening remains an effective way of detecting early changes in cells before they develop into cancer. Vaccination and cervical screening work together to provide the best possible protection from cervical cancer.

As the mercury continues to rise across the UK, thousands of Brits are set to make a beeline for the coast over the next two months. Now, in an ideal world, that beach would have a sandy coastline, pristine waters, and no crowds. And while it may sound too good to be true, one UK beach actually promises all that and more.

An under-the-radar beach has topped the rankings in new data compiled by outdoor specialists at Millets, who analysed average sunshine hours, typical temperatures and water quality at UK beaches with fewer than 500 reviews, in order to reveal the nation’s best ‘hidden gem’ beaches.

For beachgoers looking to avoid large crowds whilst also being treated to stunning views, breathtaking landscapes and azure waters — there’s one UK beach that comes out on top.

Warkworth Beach, Northumberland

Warkworth Beach has been crowned the UK’s best ‘hidden gem’ beach. Nestled in Northumberland, Warkworth Beach sits less than a mile from the charming medieval village of Warkworth, positioned between Birling Carrs and Amble Breakwater.

Visitors to the village frequently overlook the stunning beach nearby, but those who do make the effort are rewarded with a sweeping stretch of immaculate golden sand that seems to go on forever. Warkworth Beach spans more than two miles and sits beneath the imposing Warkworth Castle.

The beach has been described as having ‘excellent’ quality water, and is praised for its ‘unspoilt’ landscape. Visitors can pop into nearby pubs and cafes, which are only a short walk from the beach’s free car park.

Whether you fancy sunbathing, playing games on the beach or simply taking a long and glacial stroll, especially with your dog, amidst breathtaking surroundings — Warkworth Beach consistently offers ample space and an escape from the crowds, all while delivering unmatched views.

One glowing visitor review of the beach on Tripadvisor states: “Stunning Beach. This is a dog walker’s must. Beautiful views across the headland. A sandy beach, with some interesting rocky pools. A peaceful place most of the year. Reasonable parking, a bit of a steep walk to the dunes. If you tire of the beach, some great walks by the sand dunes and salt marshes.”

While another happy traveller adds: “I agree with most of the other reviews here: seriously stunning beach, unspoilt, vast and with very few people. Gorgeous sand and beautiful views. Parking is free and, as well as toilets the day we were there there was also a food trailer in the car park offering what looked like brilliant dishes. If I lived here I would be on this beach every day!”

Highcliffe Beach, Dorset

Coming in second is Highcliffe Beach, situated in Dorset. The sand-and-shingle beach sits close to the Hampshire border and is framed by striking cliffs and Highcliffe Castle.

The beach offers paid parking, along with a café with sea views, and it’s RNLI lifeguarded during July and August. Highcliffe Beach is highly regarded, with visitors praising its coastal walking trails, alongside opportunities for swimming and bodyboarding.

East Strand Beach, County Antrim

Completing the top three is East Strand Beach, which achieves a score of 8.89/10. Situated in Portrush, the beach is surrounded by rolling sand dunes and the renowned Portrush golf club.

It’s a favourite for year-round watersports, including surfing, and benefits from operational RNLI lifeguards during the summer months. Travellers rave about the stunning white sand, with one visitor review comparing it to the Sahara: “A glorious stretch of sand so long and golden it could make the Sahara blush.”

Calum Jones, Author & outdoor enthusiast at Millets, has offered his top tips on how best to make the most of your summer beach trip this season, sharing: “Summer is the perfect time to explore the stunning coastlines across the UK, from Achmelvich Beach in the Scottish Highlands to Broadstairs in Kent. There are breathtaking beaches to be found across the UK.

“When planning your summer beach trip, it is important to remember sun-protective clothing. The sea breeze can often make the air feel cooler, but UV rays can still be harmful. Apply a generous layer of suncream before you head out, and don’t forget a cap and sunglasses to shield yourself from the sun.

“You should also keep in mind that British weather can still be unpredictable. Bring a waterproof jacket to stay dry in case of sudden showers, choose supportive, waterproof footwear for any slippery sand or rocks, and layer your clothing so you can easily adjust to changing temperatures.

“Visitors should always leave beaches in the condition they found them. Make sure you take any rubbish, clothing or equipment home with you to keep UK beaches as clean as possible.”

UK’s best ‘hidden gem’ beaches

1. Warkworth Beach, Northumberland
2. Highcliffe Beach, Dorset
3. East Strand, County Antrim
4. Joss Bay, Kent
5. Seacliff Beach, East Lothian
6. Mossyard Beach, Dumfries and Galloway
7. Flamborough South Landing, East Riding of Yorkshire
8. Caister-on-Sea Beach, Norfolk
9. Treyarnon Bay Beach, Cornwall
10. Cayton Bay Beach, North Yorkshire and Beadnell Bay Beach, Northumberland

Thousands of people across the UK will be heading abroad this summer, with many planning longer holidays while the weather is warmer. But anyone receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP) should be aware that travelling overseas for more than four weeks is subject to important rules. Going abroad for longer than four weeks is treated by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) as a change in circumstances, which means claimants need to let the department know before they travel.

That doesn’t mean your PIP will automatically stop if you’re away for five or six weeks. In most cases, people can continue receiving PIP while abroad for up to 13 weeks if the trip is temporary. That can increase to 26 weeks if the reason for travelling overseas is medical treatment. However, if you leave the UK for more than four weeks without telling the DWP first, it could affect your claim. The department could suspend your payments, ask for any overpaid money back or take further action because the change in circumstances was not reported.

If you’re planning a holiday lasting four weeks or longer, you should contact the DWP before you travel.

You’ll be asked for the date you’re leaving the UK, how long you’ll be away, which country you’re visiting and the reason for your trip.

As long as you report the trip before you go and your temporary absence stays within the 13-week limit, your PIP should normally continue to be paid while you’re away.

It’s also worth keeping copies of flight confirmations or booking details in case you ever need to confirm your travel dates.

However, people who also claim Universal Credit should be aware that different rules apply. Universal Credit usually stops if you are outside the UK for longer than one month, even if your PIP continues.

However, going on holiday isn’t the only change people may need to report.

You should tell the DWP if your daily living or mobility needs change.

For example, this could include needing more or less help than before or if your condition is expected to last for a longer or shorter period than you previously told the DWP.

This could affect whether you are entitled to PIP, how much you receive and how long your award lasts.

People admitted to an NHS hospital should also be aware of the rules. According to DWP guidance, both components of PIP stop being paid after 28 days in an NHS hospital.

People paying privately for their hospital care are not affected by these rules and can continue receiving both components.

If someone is already in hospital when their PIP entitlement starts, payments will not begin until they are discharged.

Different rules apply to care homes. The daily living component stops after 28 days if the cost of the care home is paid for through public or local authority funding. The mobility component can continue to be paid.

People who fully fund their own care home place are not affected by these rules. If someone is already living in a care home when their entitlement starts, the daily living component will not be paid until they leave.

If someone moves between hospital and a care home, or has more than one stay within 28 days, those periods can be linked together when calculating how long payments continue.

The DWP also needs to know if someone receiving PIP goes into prison or is held in legal custody.

People should report the date they entered prison or legal custody and, if known, how long they are expected to be there.

PIP stops being payable after 28 days in legal custody. This applies whether someone has been convicted, is on remand or is being detained for a civil matter.

If payments are suspended, they are not repaid later regardless of the outcome of the court case.

Separate periods in legal custody can also be linked if they take place within one year of each other.

Some changes do not affect your entitlement, but it is still important to make sure the DWP has the correct details.

Changing your name, address or bank account will not affect your PIP award, but you should let the DWP know so its records stay up to date.

If you change your name, you must report it in writing. The letter should include your previous name, your new name, details of any changes to the bank or building society account where your PIP is paid and your signature.

If you change bank account, the DWP will need the name and address of the new bank or building society, along with the account name, account number and sort code or roll number.

If someone acts on your behalf, such as an appointee or a person with power of attorney, the DWP should also be told if that person changes or if their contact details change.

Changing your doctor or healthcare professional does not affect your PIP payments once a decision has been made on your claim. However, if you are still making a claim, you should update the DWP so the assessment provider has the correct contact details if more information is needed.

Changes can be reported by calling the PIP enquiry line on 0800 121 4433. The line is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm.

More information about reporting a change of circumstances while claiming PIP is available on GOV.UK.

There are some truly incredible zoos around the world, attracting millions of visitors every year. In the UK, animal lovers are spoilt for choice when it comes to enjoying a day out surrounded by wildlife. Just to name a few attractions, there’s London Zoo, Colchester Zoo and Blackpool Zoo. All of them are very well known and attract huge numbers of visitors every year.

But none of them is consistently ranked as the world’s best zoo. That title often goes to a zoological garden in the north west of England that is home to more than 30,000 animals. It has also been named the UK’s favourite zoo in TripAdvisor’s travellers’ ranking.

That zoo is Chester Zoo. Chester Zoo has around 30,000 animals from more than 500 species spread across its 128-acre site. It also welcomes around 1.4 million visitors every year.

Visitors can see everything from Asian elephants and Eastern black rhinos to Sumatran tigers, Asiatic lions and snow leopards, which arrived at the zoo in 2024.

The zoo also has one of Europe’s biggest collections of primates, including chimpanzees, Bornean and Sumatran orangutans, Sulawesi macaques, Colombian black spider monkeys and lemurs.

There’s plenty more to discover, too. Inside Monsoon Forest, the UK’s largest indoor zoo exhibit, visitors can spot Komodo dragons, rare frogs and tropical birds. Elsewhere around the zoo are giant otters, red pandas, okapis, aardvarks and Humboldt penguins.

Visitors can also take the Islands boat trip through a Southeast Asian-themed area, attend daily ranger talks and conservation sessions, or book an overnight stay at The Reserve, where safari-style lodges overlook giraffe and rhino habitats.

According to TripAdvisor, Chester Zoo has a rating of 4.4 out of five from more than 17,000 reviews, making it the highest-ranked zoo in the UK.

When booked online, adult tickets cost £38. Entry for children aged three to 10 is £28, while juniors aged 11 to 15 also pay £28. A family ticket for three costs £89 and a family ticket for four costs £119. Children aged one and two pay £2.50, student tickets cost £37 and babies under 12 months can visit for free.

Those who have visited certainly seem impressed. One person wrote: “The best zoo in the world by far. It’s just magnificent.”

Another added: “Definitely lives up to its label of world’s best zoo. We were a bit sceptical at first, having been to hundreds of zoos around the world, but we were blown away. We highly recommend.”

A third said: “A huge zoo with so many animals and various enclosures to walk through. We had a brilliant day and needed a full day to get around. Very clean, tidy and great place all round.”

Another wrote: “We have visited Chester Zoo several times and it never fails to delight and amaze us! The range of animals, stunning layout and animal environments are just fabulous.”

Someone else said: “Chester Zoo is a fantastic day out for the family, and I think it gave decent value for money. The zoo is large, but the app made it easy to navigate. The place is well designed and feels very ‘natural’ as you move from one area to another. All in all, a brilliant day out which we all enjoyed.”

Another visitor commented: “Amazing experience!! All of the staff were lovely, the animals well cared for (space, food, social groups), lots of places to rest and eat. It was amazing/inspiring to see how passionate the staff were about their animals, and we really enjoyed hearing the staff talk about the bats, giraffes, etc. It was very clean and tidy too.”