Celeb superstars Kim Kardashian and Kanye West could have chosen anywhere in the world for their honeymoon – and when they picked Ireland as one of their post-wedding destinations it just proved the enduring appeal of the Emerald Isle.

And you can easily follow their lead and enjoy the craic in Cork and Kerry, writes Claudia Redmond

If you’re trying to decide on a summer holiday destination that will allow you to keep the family happy at a reasonable cost, Southern Ireland is a beautiful spot and with a flying time of just over an hour even the “are we there yet?” cries will be bearable.

We flew from Luton to Kerry on Ryanair. Kerry airport is such a joy after getting lost over the years in the maze of many large airports. This is an airport where you literally step off the plane straight into the baggage hall: No stress, no hassle the perfect start to a trip.

There are many interesting places to explore in Kerry. Killarney is less than half an hour’s drive from the airport and is a bustling town. Queen Victoria stayed in the magnificent Muckross House which is in Killarney National Park, and from there you can explore the building and the surrounding park by taking a jaunting car, from where you can enjoy the stories told by the great Kerry characters that man these vehicles

Hotels and B&Bs are plentiful in and around Kerry so check with the www.ireland.com for accommodation to suit your needs.

The next stop for us was Cork. This is the next county going east, where a tranquil drive from Killarney takes in some perfect stop off spots on the way. Here we had lunch at The Mills Inn Hotel in Ballyvourney where the staff were very friendly and the menu had something to satisfy everyone’s taste, with dishes varying from chicken liver pate to fish and chips.

Finally we arrive at The River Lee Hotel which is located near the historic University College Cork. This seat of learning was established in 1845 and is worth a stroll around. The hotel is perfect for families with a pool and spa. We treated granny to a facial in the Urban Escape Spa, whilst the kids splashed about in the pool.

General manager Ruairi O’Connor is always on hand greeting guests in the reception area and making sure everyone is comfortable and happy. He is delighted that more British visitors are coming to Cork now and he thinks it has a lot to do with the visit from the Queen back in 2011.

“I think many visitors from the UK were still unsure about visiting Ireland. But when they saw the Queen down here it encouraged them to come, which is fantastic, and we are ready to welcome everyone and show them the hospitality and warmth in Cork”.

He runs a smooth ship with an international staff of very attentive and charming people who welcome you with a smile at breakfast, while the excellent service continues throughout the day.

Head chef Shane ensures the menu at the hotel’s restaurant The Weir Bistro is locally sourced, in order to produce delicious choices that include Castletownbere Crab and Ballycotton Hake.

The hotel is just a short stroll into the city centre where you can explore Ireland’s second city at your leisure. The Cork Opera House, home of the Cork City Ballet, is a must, as is the Triskel Arts Centre where we watched a traditional Irish music show with Irish dancers.

Set in an 18th century church, instead of theatre seats the audience sits on church pews, while the atmosphere is fantastic.

Blackrock Castle is a bus ride out of the city. Built over 400 years ago the building now houses a research observatory, science centre and watch tower. Tours are available with a local guide – we had a wonderful lady who really brought the history of the place to life with very funny stories.

If you are fed up of city life then Crosshaven is recommended as relief. Home of the Royal Cork Yacht Club, which was established in 1720 and still holds the title of the oldest yachting club in the world, Hassett’s Restaurant is just across the road from the club and offers a varied menu while Cronin’s Pub serves delightful pub grub complemented with a great atmosphere.

So if you enjoy good food, beautiful scenery, friendly people and most of all the feeling that you are really being looked after, then Kerry and Cork are the places for you.

{http://www.doylecollection.com/hotels/the-river-lee-hotel|Click here to find out more about The River Lee Hotel}

{http://www.millsinn.ie|Click here to find out more about The Mills Inn Hotel}

Sacred religious items have been stolen from a church – causing ‘distress’ to its congregation.

The break-in happened at St Mary the Virgin Church, Hardwick sometime between Sunday May 25 and Sunday June 1, police said today (Thursday).

Criminals got into the church and stole various items of silverware including a number of challises, patens, flagons communion sets and crosses.

Det Con Emma Francis from Aylesbury police station said: “This has caused disruption and distress to the congregation and the church.

“If anyone saw any suspicious activity in the area please contact me through the Thames Valley Police enquiry centre on 101.”

Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Boris Johnson joked he was on ‘day release’ from his hectic job as London Mayor while opening a new exhibition at Waddesdon Manor this morning.

Lord Rothschild introduced the London Mayor, who appeared in his customary slightly dishevelled state and gave an amusing speech in the courtyard of The Stables.

Mr Johnson was opening Predators and Prey, an exhibition of a Roman mosaic floor that was accidentally discovered during road works in the Israeli city of Lod in 1996.

After opening his speech in Latin Mr Johnson continued: “It was with great difficulty that I persuaded my officials in City Hall to give me a break from skyscrapers and stations, hotels and discount housing in London, to come here to Buckinghamshire on day release.

“They said it’s not in your constituency, the housing in question is not affordable, the technology you are talking about is not British, it doesn’t comply with green standards and at 1,700 years old it is not cutting edge stuff.”

But despite these objections, Mr Johnson did manage to escape the capital for a quick trip to Waddesdon where, in addition to opening the exhibition he also planted a tree in the grounds.

Guests at the opening of the exhibition included Waterside Theatre CEO Elizabeth Adlington and Hartwell House director and general manager Jonathan Thompson. They were greeted at the entrance to The Stables by members of the Ermine Street Guard Roman re-enactment society dressed as traditional Roman soldiers.

Waddesdon Manor CEO Sarah Weir OBE escorted Mr Johnson through the exhibition, which is open at Waddesdon until the beginning of November.

Mr Johnson was enthusiastic about the mosaic, taking pictures of it on his mobile telephone as he walked along the raised viewing platform.

He said that the Roman empire was created from many languages and nations and produced a single harmonious civilisation that lasted for hundreds of years.

He said: “I think we should follow the Roman approach, let’s follow the mosaic approach to our country, let’s put the grout back into Britain!”

The mosaic on display at Waddesdon belongs to a set of mosaics that lay just one metre below the ground in Lod, where they had been preserved for over 1,700 years.

They were part of the floor of a villa, probably from the reception hall, the walls of which had collapsed, covering and preserving it in its current condition.

After discovery the mosaic was partially conserved by the Israel Antiquities Authority and then recovered until funds could be raised for its extraction.

In 2009 it was removed in sections for easier transportation.

It has been displayed in museums across America and in Europe, after which time it will return to a permanent purpose-built location in Israel.

A number of food outlets across the Vale have been recognised for signing up to a new healthy eating campaign.

The Eat Out Eat Well awards restaurants and cafes based on the food they sell, their cooking methods and how they promote healthy eating options.

The campaign has been launched by Bucks County Council’s Trading Standards team.

In the first few days of the campaign, 30 restaurants and cafes have signed up and received either a silver or bronze award.

Among those given a silver level award are Trinity Coffee Shop, Cafe Zest, Just Baguettes and Watergarden Cafe in Aylesbury and World’s End Garden Centre in Wendover.

Among the establishments awarded a bronze level award are La Salute, The Coffee Bean and The Garden Cafe in Aylesbury, The Red Lion in Wendover and The Golden Cross in Saunderton.

To go for gold, staff need to do special nutrition training.

Campaign leader Ben Fletcher said: “With such a focus on healthy eating, our aim is to encourage eateries to provide healthier options for their eaters.

“As the demand for healthy choices grows it will be increasingly important that menus meet that demand - and the Eat Out Eat Well award is a great benchmark.”

Martin Phillips, county council cabinet member for community engagement said: “This isn’t about nannying people into what to eat, but it’s about widening the choices so that residents can eat out healthily with confidence.

“This award can be a real feather in the cap for local eateries.”

Jane O’Grady, director of public health said: “Making it easier for residents to make healthier choices when eating out will be an important contribution towards improving their health.”

Three people remain in hospital after a car careered off the road, hit a telegraph pole and landed on its roof in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

The crash happened at 2.40am in Ivinghoe.

The blue Renault Clio which was travelling along the B489 from the direction of Ivinghoe Beacon, approached the junction with the B488 and left the road.

It collided with a telegraph pole before rolling down an embankment into a grass paddock where it landed on its roof.

One of the three men who was in the car was thrown from the vehicle.

The driver sustained extensive bruising and was treated at Stoke Mandeville Hospital.

One of the passengers sustained back and hand injuries and was also taken to Stoke Mandeville Hospital for treatment.

The other passenger sustained extensive facial injuries and was taken to the Luton and Dunstable Hospital.

Anyone with information about the collision is asked to contact PC Steve Leathersich via the Thames Valley Police enquiry centre on 101.

Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

A new training course for driving instructors, piloted by Bucks County Council, has been such a success that it will now be rolled out nationally.

The course will now be offered to the UK’s 40,000 Approved Driving Instructors (ADIs) and will be managed by Road Safety GB, a national road safety organisation. It will be delivered across Bucks by Road Safety GB members, including the county council.

The course helps ADIs develop their skills to meet the requirements of the new grading structure introduced by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) at the beginning of April.

Buckinghamshire’s pilot course was successful in its aims to give ADIs an understanding of ‘client-centred learning’ which is at the heart of the new standards check.

Client-centred learning involves giving the learners the information in the way that suits them best,

Feedback from ADIs was very positive with many stating that they now feel more confident.

Ruth Vigor-Hedderly, cabinet member for transportation at Bucks County Council said: “We are delighted that we can deliver this course to our driving instructors as part of a nationwide initiative to raise driving standards.

“We will continue to work with ADIs locally as we believe they are a key partner in helping to reduce the number of young drivers killed or seriously injured on our roads.”

ADIs wanting more information or wishing to register interest in attending a course should contact the Road Safety Team at Bucks County Council on 01296 382450 or at roadsafety@buckscc.gov.uk.

Three people have been injured after two crashes on the same stretch of road within ten minutes of each other.

The first collision on the A41 just outside Waddesdon involved a black Honda Civic, a blue Fiat Skudo van and a silver Vauxhall 4x4, on the carriageway towards Aylesbury at about 9am.

According to Bucks Fire and Rescue Service, the first accident happened after some fuel spilled onto the carriageway.

One person sustained minor injuries.

The second accident happened ten minutes later on the opposite carrigeway, heading towards Bicester, after a Vauxhall Sigma collided with a flat bed truck.

Two people suffered minor injuries.

The road was blocked in both directions for more than two hours and led to long queues.

I have a great fondness for the young farmers movement.

My children have gained enormous benefits from being involved in their clubs, making good friends, learning new skills, having fun and raising lots of money for charity.

Members play hard but they also work hard and give so much back to the communities within which they operate.

Bledlow Country Show at the weekend was one example of this, and you can read about it in the Bucks Herald today on pages five and 97.

Princes Risborough club played host, and I was invited to be a judge in one of the many home craft competitions.

The task for members was to create the front page of a newspaper, paying particular attention to the design as well as the content.

Clubs are allowed to submit several entries and they were well thought out, with interesting designs and the stories chosen as suitable for the front page, very amusing.

Of course I was unaware of who had submitted the entries when I judged them, but afterwards I learnt I had awarded first and third prize to entries from Aylesbury Seniors, and second prize to Buckingham.

It was interesting to be in the homecraft area as a judge for the first time, and to see how the other judges worked and chose their winners.

We were all well looked after with coffee and croissants during judging, and a fabulous hog roast and home made puddings for lunch afterwards.

Princes Risborough YFC members, their show committee and supporters put on a fabulous show that provided a great day of entertainment for thousands of people.

Quite a number of parents have recently asked me :Why choose boarding?

Often I find that Dad is keen, but Mum says ‘over my dead body.’

It seems a widely misunderstood concept which parents either love or hate.

Those of a negative opinion have usually arrived at this conclusion due to out-of-date opinions formed through personal experience or hearing ancient horror stories from family or other parents.

Here are a few points which parents have found helpful in asking themselves why boarding might be worth considering, when they might previously have dismissed it.

No. 1 Watch confidence grow through time doing sport, music, drama, art instead of commuting.

No. 2 Leave work-week nagging of your soon to be hormonal teenager to the professionals.

No. 3 Expand school choice options, especially where siblings have different needs, without moving house.

No. 4 Develop independence, an ability to think for themselves, coupled with a lasting network of useful contacts for the future.

No. 5 Retire the parent taxi service for after school activities or play dates. It’s all there in situ!

No. 6 Solve childcare challenges in busy professional families, especially if both parents work.

No. 7 A source of stability and pastoral support whilst there may be difficult relationship issues between parents at home.

No. 8 Access to the best British education, even when work commitments require travel overseas or a fixed-contract move abroad.

No. 9 Accelerated achievement through having 5 to 7 extended days a week with access to the library, art room, specialist help with homework and a huge breadth of other facilities and resources.

No. 10 Gain cultural understanding and tolerance of others, to facilitate future success in a global career world.

A round-up of planning applications to Aylesbury Vale District Council – plus all their latest decisions on proposals.

{https://publicaccess.aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk/online-applications//search.do?action=simple&searchType=Application|To view applications in more detail, click here|link to council website}

APPLICATIONS

14/01422/BED BEDGROVE

Single storey side extension to existing garage. 19 Pike Corner HP21 9DL. Mr J Reed

14/01435/APP BEDGROVE

Single storey rear extension. 55 Ambleside HP21 9TT. Mr and Mrs M Arthern

14/00960/ALB AYLESBURY - CENTRAL

Redecorate and replace flooring, ceiling and wall finishes throughout ground floor and reconfigure and upgrade Banking Hall. Barclays Bank Plc 34 Market Square HP20 1TW . Barclays PLC

14/01432/ACL ELMHURST AND WATERMEAD

Conversion of loft into living accommodation including side dormer and rooflights to rear. 106 Bierton Road HP20 1EN. Mr M A and Mrs A M Khan

14/01455/APP ELMHURST AND WATERMEAD

Single storey side and rear extension

23 Abbotts Road HP20 1HY. Mr David Wilson

14/01229/APP MANDEVILLE/ELM FARM(S LEYS)

Demolition of existing conservatory and erection of replacement single storey extension. Florence Nightingale Hospice Stoke Mandeville Hospital Mandeville Road HP21 8AL. Mr Clinton Green. NHS Trust

14/01286/APP QUARRENDON

First floor side and front extension over existing garage and conversion of garage into living accommodation. 29 Rubens Close HP19 8SW. Mr C Foster

14/01420/APP SOUTHCOURT

First floor side extension with single storey rear extension. 21 Prebendal Avenue HP21 8HZ. Mr Said Mar Khan

14/01399/APP ASTON CLINTON

Construction of two new dwellings within the curtilage of an existing residential dwelling. The Paddock House 31 London Road Aston Clinton HP22 5HG. Ms Sandra Rodhouse

14/01449/APP ASTON CLINTON

Two storey front, side and rear extensions including raising of roof to provide additional first floor living accommodation. 101A Aylesbury Road Aston Clinton HP22 5AJ. Mr Lee Hodges

14/01347/APP BUCKLAND

Demolition of existing garage and erection of single storey side extension and single storey rear extension, replacement of fencing to northwest boundary with 2.4m high fencing, new fencing 1.8m high fencing to front boundary, widening of existing access and erection of a new outbuilding/studio to rear. Murray Cottage Main Road Buckland HP22 5HU. Mrs Marianne Griffin

14/01417/APP CHEARSLEY

Single storey front extension and alterations. 9 Elm Brook Close Chearsley HP18 0DB. Mr R Smith

14/01437/AGN CHEARSLEY

Erection of agricultural building for storage of machinery and feed products. Grove Farm Chearsley Road Long Crendon. Mr Brian Lloyd. J Lloyd and Sons

14/01415/APP COLDHARBOUR

Single storey rear extension. 143 Great Meadow Way Coldharbour Fairford Leys HP19 7GY. Mr and Mrs H Bhrara

14/01269/APP CUDDINGTON

Demolition of single storey side and rear structures, part demolition of garage, two/single storey extension and internal alterations. Sunbeam Cottage Frog Lane Cuddington HP18 0AX. Mr and Mrs R Polley

14/01500/APP DRAYTON PARSLOW

Change of use of agricultural building to Class B1 (light industrial) Os 5781 Newton Road Drayton Parslow. Mr Peter Alder

14/01360/APP EDLESBOROUGH, NORTHALL & DAGNALL

Single storey side extension, part two storey, part single storey rear extension and demolition of front porch. 2 Slicketts Lane Edlesborough LU6 2JD. Mr and Mrs M Plaats

14/01450/AOP EDLESBOROUGH, NORTHALL & DAGNALL

Outline application with access to be considered and all other matters reserved for the erection of one dwelling with alterations to existing access. Yew Tree Malting Lane Dagnall HP4 1QY. Mrs Carol Carr

14/01457/APP EDLESBOROUGH, NORTHALL & DAGNALL

Demolition of existing dwellings and erection of 5 dwellings with associated parking and new access off Leighton Road. Threeways Leighton Road Northall LU6 2ET. Mr Anthony Gabriel. A Gabriel Development

14/01398/APP GRENDON UNDERWOOD

Temporary change of use of building from B1 (light industry) to B2 (workshop) and use of area of adjoining land as storage compound, including temporary siting of two portacabins (Retrospective). Lawn Farm Main Street Grendon Underwood HP18 0QX. Messrs A and P Marcello. Lawn Farm business Centre

14/01488/ATC HADDENHAM

50% crown reduction to one ornamental plum tree. Garden Cottage The Croft Haddenham HP17 8AS. Ms Miriam Comber

14/01189/APP HALTON

Change of use of adjacent land to provide additional parking. Leonard Pulham Nursing Home Upper Icknield Way Halton HP22 5PN. Mr Stuart Smith. Abbeyfield Society

14/01355/APP IVINGHOE

Approval of external and internal alterations associated with residential change of use following prior approval ref 14/00345/COUOR. Unit 2 Grove Farm Ivinghoe Aston Ivinghoe LU7 9DF. Mr Dave Harris. Thameside Homes Limited

14/01364/APP KINGSEY

Erection of detached agricultural barn for storage. The Old Dairy Haddenham Road Kingsey HP17 8LR. Mr and Mrs Hughes

14/01451/APP LONG CRENDON

Change of use of part of first floor accommodation to dining area including new fire escape and extraction equipment. The Eight Bells PH 51 High Street Long Crendon HP18 9AL. Mr Paul Mitchell

14/01452/ALB LONG CRENDON

Change of use of part of first floor accommodation to dining area, provision of toilets and enlargement of existing kitchen with new fire escape provision and extraction equipment. The Eight Bells PH 51 High Street Long Crendon HP18 9AL. Mr Paul Mitchell

14/01240/APP MARSH GIBBON

Construction of a single storey extension and a detached temporary classroom building. Marsh Gibbon Church Of England School Castle Street Marsh Gibbon OX27 0HJ. Governors of Marsh Gibbon CE primary school

14/01317/APP MARSH GIBBON

Erection of portal framed side extension to existing building. Ewelme Farm Summerstown Marsh Gibbon OX27 0AT. Mr Oliver Bentley

14/01392/ALB MARSH GIBBON

Replacement of ground floor windows. Plum Tree Cottage Station Road Marsh Gibbon OX27 0HN. Mr Owen Williams

14/01460/APP MENTMORE

Variation of Conditions 4 and 5 of planning permission 11/00977/APP relating to timing of programme of archaeological worls and details of ‘loading ‘door. 11 Crafton Lodge Road Crafton Mentmore LU7 0QL. Mr Rupert and Mrs Sue Armitage

14/01426/APP MENTMORE

Demolition of smoking shelter, cellar area, store, external staircase, rear lobby and removal of enclosures. Change of use of public house (C5) to residential dwellinghouse (C3) and conversion of outbuildings to two dwellings with associated parking and remediation landscape works. Hare And Hounds PH Ledburn Mentmore LU7 0QB. Mr Mark Oates

14/01479/ATC MENTMORE

Removal or part removal of an Alder. 4 Crafton Lodge Road Crafton Mentmore LU7 0QL. Mrs Anita Parris

14/01394/APP MURSLEY

Variation of Condition Number(s): 2, 3, 5, 6, 8 & 10 on planning permission 14/00291/APP to vary all pre-commencement conditions on the site and proposed variation of wording of these conditions. Brook Cottage 8 Church Lane Mursley MK17 0RS. Mr M Watson

14/01499/APP SHABBINGTON

Installation of domestic swimming pool with associated paving. Lower Peppershill Farm Westfield Road Long Crendon HP18 9EW Mr Angus Minford

14/01289/AGN STEEPLE CLAYDON

Erection of agricultural building for storage. Land Near Herds Hill Farm Herds Hill Steeple Claydon. Mr Dejon Terry

14/01166/APP STEWKLEY

Erection of two detached dwellings and construction of two garages (amendment to planning permission 13/01250/APP). The Old Coal House 3 Dunton Road Stewkley LU7 0HY. Mr Richard Franklin. Speedcut Contractors Ltd

14/01387/APP STOKE MANDEVILLE

Removal of conservatory and erection of part single, part two storey rear extension and conversion of garage into living accommodation. 5 Patrick Way HP21 9XH. Mr and Mrs Buglass

14/01431/AOP STONE BISHOPSTONE AND HARTWELL

Outline application with access and layout to be considered and all other matters reserved for the erection of eleven dwelling with the formation of a new access

Land To The Rear Of 34 Oxford Road Stone. Rectory Homes Ltd. Rectory Homes Ltd

14/01477/APP STOWE

Removal of Condition 1 of planning permission 93/01661/APP (allowed on appeal) relating to use of the converted agricultural barn for residential purposes incidental to the use of Garden Cottage. Garden Cottage Dadford Road Stowe MK18 5JZ. Mr R and Mrs J Tofield

14/01503/ATC WEEDON

Fell one conifer. The Old House 3 New Road Weedon HP22 4NN. Mr Nigel Winnett

14/01519/ATC WEEDON

Felll one sycamore and one beech. 2 Stockaway Weedon HP22 4NL. Nicola Reeves

14/01226/APP WENDOVER

Two storey side extension and single storey rear extension. 62 Perry Street Wendover HP22 6DJ. Mr and Mrs D Hillsdon

14/01456/APP WENDOVER

Single storey rear extension. Fields Place Dunsmore Lane Wendover HP22 6QH. Mrs Louise How

14/01403/AOP WESTON TURVILLE

Outline application with all matters reserved for the erection of 9no. dwellings. Land East Of New Road Weston Turville. London and Slough Properties Ltd

14/01270/APP WING

Demolition of existing side extension and replacement with two storey side extension and new porch. 29 Wantage Crescent Wing LU7 0NQ. Miss Katharine Allen

14/01358/AOP WINGRAVE WITH ROWSHAM

Outline Application with all matters reserved for the erection of 5no. detached dwellings. Land At Lower End Wingrave. J G and P Cope

14/01359/AOP WINGRAVE WITH ROWSHAM

Outline Application with all matters reserved for the erection of 12no. detached dwellings. Land At Church Street Wingrave. Mr J Cope

14/01264/APP WINSLOW

Replacement of wooden windows with uPVC to rear hall. Winslow Tabernacle High Street Winslow. Mr Thomas Harrison

14/01405/APP WINSLOW

Two storey side/front and single storey front extension. 58 Station Road Winslow MK18 3EA. Mr J Balderson

14/01316/APP WORMINGHALL

Demolition of tennis court and erection of detached dwelling (Amendments to 12/02841/APP) to include removal of outbuilding and erection of garage, alteration to parking area, plus amendments to fenestration and internal layout. The Pool House 65A Clifden Road Worminghall HP18 9JR. Mr and Mrs P Sidgwick

DECISIONS

13/03440/APP MANDEVILLE AND ELM FARM

Erection of four detached dwellings with associated parking and amenity space and provision of new access off Wendover Road. Land Rear Of 151 - 155 Wendover Road. Churchgate Premier Homes. Decision: Approved

13/02271/APP BEDGROVE

Construction of four storey block comprising retail unit at ground floor with six residential apartments above. Jansel Square Brentwood Way. Mr Dennis Audley. Decision: Approved

14/00886/APP BEDGROVE

Single storey rear extensions with rooflight. 125 & 127 Ingram Avenue HP21 9DD. Mr and Mrs G Jennings and Mr and Mrs H Raybould. Decision: Householder Approval

13/00195/APP CENTRAL

Erection of boundary fence and play house and creation of deck and access doors (retrospective). Child First 35 Rickfords Hill HP20 2RT. Mr Tom Shea. Decision: Householder Approval

14/00891/ALB CENTRAL

Change of use from Office to residential dwelling and internal and external alterations including enclosure of covered link in yard. 2 Church Street HP20 2QS. Mr Paul Rutter. The Puttenham Trust. Decision: Listed Building Consent

14/00883/APP ELMHURST AND WATERMEAD

Demolition of existing rear conservatory. Erection of single storey rear and side extension. 27 Fleet Street HP20 2PA. Mrs Bibi Fayza. Decision: Householder Approval

14/00837/APP QUARRENDON

Two storey side and rear extension. 32 Carr Close HP19 9TP. Mr I Chimbo. Decision: Householder Approval

14/00910/AAD AYLESBURY - QUARRENDON

2 no. internally illuminated fascia signs and one no. pole mounted internally illuminated sign and 2 no. non-illuminated pole mounted signs. Unit 3 Griffin Lane Industrial Estate Griffin Lane Aylesbury HP19 8BP. Scot Group Ltd. Decision: Advert Consent

14/01090/HPDE SOUTHCOURT

The erection of a single storey rear extension, which would extend beyond the rear wall of the original house by 4.m, for which the maximum height would be 3.5m, and for which the height of the eaves would be 2.8m. 57 Penn Road HP21 8JZ. Mr Jonathan Carter. Decision: Householder PD - Refused

14/0778/APP ASTON CLINTON

Single storey rear and single storey infill front porch extension. 35 Wenwell Close Aston Clinton. Mr and Mrs Richard Caro. Decision: Householder Approval

14/01035/APP ASTON CLINTON

Single storey rear extension. 11 Putnams Drive Aston Clinton HP22 5HH. Mr and Mrs G Carlile. Decision: Householder Approval

14/00892/APP ASTON CLINTON

Single storey rear extension. 73 Aylesbury Road Aston Clinton HP22 5AQ. Mr and Mrs Casemore. Decision: Householder Approval

14/00173/APP BIERTON WITH BROUGHTON

Demolition of existing garage and workshop outbuilding and erection of two storey and single storey side extensions including replacement garage and workshop, and raising of roof of existing dwelling. Old Mill House Broughton Lane Bierton HP22 5AW. Mr Trevor Lewis. Decision: Householder Refusal

14/00928/APP BIERTON WITH BROUGHTON

Single storey front, side and rear extension. 1 Burcott Close Bierton HP22 5DH. Mr G Mansi. Decision: Householder Approval

14/00997/ATC BRILL

Reduce one Cherry tree by 15% approxi; reduce one Prunus tree by removing wayward laterals within crown profile; formative prune to contain and remove stake of one Damson tree; fell to ground level two Cypress trees and formative prune to flat fan espalier 60cm below gutter height of one Prunus tree. Exchange House 5 Temple Street Brill HP18 9SU. Mr and Mrs Ballinger. Decision: Proceed with works - Trees

14/00721/ACL CHILTON

Continued occupation of dwelling without compliance with condition 3 of AR/489/67 relating to agricultural occupancy. Chilwell Dorton Road Chilton HP18 9NB. Mr Brian Lloyd. J LLoyd and Sons. Decision: Certificate Issued - Existing Use

14/01022/ATC CHILTON

Section of one Abies (tree) to fell to ground level. Signpost Cottage Brill Road Chilton HP18 9LU. Mr Baker. Decision: Proceed with works - Trees

14/00780/APP CUDDINGTON

Demolition of existing lean-to rear extension and erection of single storey rear extension. 1 Meadow Cottages Aylesbury Road Cuddington HP18 0BG. Mr Vicky Shenton. Decision: Householder Approval

14/00902/APP CUDDINGTON

Single storey side (infill) extension; relocation of main entrance with new canopy; provision of new ramp access to main entrance and single storey extension to north west elevation with one rooflight. Cuddington and Dinton Church Of England School Upper Church Street Cuddington HP18 0AP. Mrs Kim Price (Headteacher). Cuddington and Dinton Church Of England School. Decision: Approved

14/01016/APP CUDDINGTON

Two storey rear extension and single storey side extension incorporating existing store room and insertion of rooflights. Prospect Cottage Lower Church Street Cuddington HP18 0AS. Mr Andy Baillie. Decision: Householder Approval

14/01017/ALB CUDDINGTON

Demolition of outbuilding and construction of two storey rear with insertion of rooflight and single storey side extension. New windows and internal alterations. Prospect Cottage Lower Church Street Cuddington HP18 0AS. Mr Andy Baillie. Decision: Listed Building Consent

14/00295/ALB DINTON FORD AND UPTON

Remove and replace existing five windows (including frames/casements) with double glazed units in appropriate wood and with glazing bars. Summers Cottage Ford Road Dinton HP17 8UG. Mr Christopher Vane. Decision: Listed Building Consent

14/00832/APP GRENDON UNDERWOOD

Relaxing of condition 9 on planning permission 12/00493/APP to enable the use of one of the carport spaces as enclosed storage area. 2 The Ridings Grendon Underwood HP18 0DG. Mr Mathew Perry. Decision: Householder Approval

14/00828/APP HADDENHAM

Insertion of front dormers, and minor alterations (Amendment to planning permission 13/00403/APP ). 4 White Hart Lane Haddenham HP17 8BB. Mr and Mrs N Shepherd-Smith. Decision: Householder Approval

14/00836/APP HADDENHAM

Rear conservatory. 23 Sheerstock Haddenham HP17 8EZ. Mr and Mrs Nunn. Decision: Householder Approval

14/00950/APP HADDENHAM

Conversion of existing integral garage into living accommodation and change of roof from flat to pitch roof over garage and front porch. 13 Dovecote Haddenham HP17 8BP. Mrs Karen Ingrams. Decision: Householder Approval

14/00818/APP HALTON

Demolition of existing outbuilding. Erection of detached 3 bay garage/carport. Tree Tops Halton Village Halton HP22 5NS. Mrs Grace Tipson. Decision: Householder Approval

14/00196/APP IVINGHOE

Two storey and single storey rear extension with two rooflights. Single storey side extensions to former stables/workshops. Moses Cottage Ivinghoe Aston Ivinghoe LU7 9DG. Alexandra Razak. Decision: Householder Approval

14/00804/APP LONG CRENDON

Erection of two-bedroom subterranean dwelling. 18C Chearsley Road Long Crendon HP18 9AW. Mr and Mrs D De Kretser. Decision: Approved

14/00908/AAD LONG CRENDON

New signage comprising of one illuminated fascia sign, two hanging illuminated sign to replace the existing. The Eight Bells Ph 51 High Street Long Crendon HP18 9AL. Mr Paul Mitchell. Eight Bells PH. Decision: Advert Consent

14/00988/AGN LONG CRENDON

Erection of agricultural building for storage of straw. Reddings Farm Sandy Lane Long Crendon HP18 9ED. Mr John H Rixon. Decision: Agric - no objection

14/00952/APP QUAINTON

Removal and replacement of B1 Light industrial building. Ladymead Farm Denham Quainton HP22 4AN. R Barrett and Son. Decision: Approved

14/00965/APP QUAINTON

Removal of existing single storey rear extension. Erection of single storey rear extension with sedum flat roof and three rooflights. 67 North End Road Quainton HP22 4BG. Mr and Mrs Mark Smith. Decision: Householder Approval

14/00751/APP SOULBURY

Erection of an enclosed entrance canopy. Rushmere Country Park Bragenham Lane Soulbury LU7 0EE. Greensands Trust. Decision: Approved

14/00673/APP STEEPLE CLAYDON

Resiting of entrance gates. Land Opposite Herds Hill Farm Herds Hill Steeple Claydon. Mrs Karen Glynn. Decision: Approved

14/00858/APP STEWKLEY

Single storey front porch. 185 High Street North Stewkley LU7 0EX. Mr John Flewin. Decision: Householder Approval

14/01052/ATC STONE BISHOPSTONE AND HARTWELL

Crown reduce one purple prunus and one lilac. 62 Bishopstone Bishopstone HP17 8SH. Mr William Gamble. Decision: Proceed with works - Trees

14/00964/APP STOWE

Erection of entrance canopy with hand rails upon an existing raised plinth to the front of Lyttleton House and external brickwork façade to be rendered with zinc cladding. Lyttleton House Stowe School Stowe Park Stowe MK18 5EH. Mr John Morris Stowe School. Decision: Approved

14/01036/ATC WEEDON

Fell three Abies (fir). Shawfield 18 Stockaway Weedon HP22 4NL. Mrs Bates. Decision: Proceed with works - Trees

14/00854/APP WENDOVER

Demolition of brick outbuilding, erection of single storey rear extension and log store. 12 Coldharbour Tring Road Wendover HP22 6NR. Mr J Tolputt. Decision: Householder Approval

14/00855/ALB WENDOVER

Demolition of brick outbuilding, erection of single storey rear extension and log store, repairs to roof including top coat of thatch and provision of a new front door. 12 Coldharbour Tring Road Wendover HP22 6NR. Mr J Tolputt. Decision: Listed Building Consent

14/00805/APP WESTON TURVILLE

Single storey rear extension to dwelling and conversion of existing garage into ancillary living accommodation including addition of dormer windows and rooflights. 25 Brook End Weston Turville HP22 5RF. Mr and Mrs Steve Sayers. Decision: Householder Approval

14/01050/ATC WESTON TURVILLE

Raise tree canopy of one Sycamore tree in neighbouring garden to gain 6metres clearance over garden at no. 22. Reduce one Sycamore tree height and spread by between 1 and 2 metres. Remove three Sycamore trees and one Ash tree. Caen Cottage 22 Church Lane Weston Turville HP22 5SQ. Mrs Penny Gudge. Decision: Proceed with works - Trees

14/00231/APP WHADDON

Change of use of land for equestrian use. Erection of stables and creation of menage, horse walker for personnel use and creation of access track. Land Adj Whaddon Road Whaddon To Mursley Road Whaddon MK17 0PR. Mrs B Overs. Decision: Approved

14/00927/APP WINGRAVE WITH ROWSHAM

Demolition of outbuilding and erection of two storey side and single storey rear extension. 10 Abbots Way Wingrave. Mr and Mrs Muckle. Decision: Householder Approval

14/01089/ATC WINGRAVE WITH ROWSHAM

Reduce crown of one Walnut by upto 25%, formative pruning to one Norway Maple and reduce one Prunus by 25%. Skerries Floyds Barns Mill Lane Wingrave HP22 4PL. Mr Mallett. Decision: Proceed with works - Trees

14/00840/ATP WINSLOW

Crown reduce on southwest by 1m. crown lift to 2.5 m all round (including over car park) and remove dead wood. Crown lifting to be repeated on a 2 year cycle until the end of April 2020. 4 Bevan Court Horn Street Winslow MK18 3AW. Mrs Geraldine White. Decision: TPO – Consent granted

14/01410/LDO WINSLOW

Single storey rear extension . 30 Courthouse Close Winslow. Mr Simon Last. Decision: Local Development Order - granted

Have you considered it might not be politicians, bankers and bureaucrats who are to blame for everything?

Our disappointment with politics and institutions now means too few bother to vote, an issue that runs deeper than the European Union, UKIP or MP’s expenses. Perhaps capitalism itself and its underpinning democratic foundations will in the end prove unsustainable?

Karl Marx suggested each political era automatically sews the seeds of its own downfall. Are we on an inevitable downhill run towards the new politics of place above populism?

There are about twice as many of us today than when I was born, a burden that is placing intense pressure on basics like water, food, and energy.

Fracking and nuclear power are needed to satisfy our burgeoning energy demands and only unpopular new technologies like genetically modified crops and new desalination techniques hold a realistic prospect of feeding and hydrating us into the future.

Thankfully, the top level Chinese Government, populated by highly educated engineers, has worked out that because we in the West are consuming at the level of three times planetary resources, there will not be enough to go around if the East copies the West.

A different politics is required, one where the frontiers of individual freedoms are curtailed for the benefit of the community as a whole.

Too many curtailments of individual freedoms and we get communist disasters, too few and we have ended up careering towards bloated unaffordable expectations.

I never thought I’d hear myself think that more regulation might be a good thing.

The EU accounts for just 7% of the planet’s population and 25% of GDP, but 50% of social spending.

We have grown used to treating welfare and state involvement like an all you can eat buffet, compared to the weightwatchers regime in our self-reliant Asian competitors.

This tells us more about our own unrealistic expectations than others’ failures.

When half the population relies on state hand-outs it votes for even more unfundable promises.

Offering them becomes the only way to get elected, creating perverse decisions and inevitable failure, which feeds more disrespect of politics and even stronger protest votes.

The Chinese look to do what is right for generations ahead, while we now do what is popular today.

A pensioner has been found dead in what police are treating as an unexplained death.

The man, believed to be aged 90, was found on a bridleway in Tetsworth at 8am yesterday morning (Sunday).

Paramedics attended and the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

The death is not thought to be suspicious.

Next of kin have been informed.

Officers from Thames Valley Police conducted enquiries in the area throughout the day.

A campaign reminding football supporters to drink sensibly and stay within the law has been launched.

Alcohol related violence, drink driving and domestic abuse will be the focus for police’s Watch Your Game iniative throughout the tournament which kicks off in Brazil on Thursday.

Throughout June, Thames Valley Police will be conducting drink/drug operations at all times throughout the day and night across and every driver involved in a collision will also be breathalysed as a matter of course.

PC Jon Little said: “The 2014 World Cup is about to start and there are high hopes for the England team.

“Although the tournament is taking place in Brazil, there will be a huge interest and supporters of all nations will be following the tournament over here.

“Thames Valley Police will be putting extra resources in place to help support local policing areas with any increase in incidents related to the football.

“Plans are in place to conduct high visibility patrols in night time economy areas during World Cup matches.

“We are all hoping that people watching the games do so in the celebratory spirit that is intended during the World Cup, but we have all experienced what can happen when alcohol, football and national pride are combined, and we will have resources in place should any issues occur.”

In 2010-11 there were 1.2 million alcohol-related hospital admissions and around 15,000 deaths caused by alcohol.

Alcohol misuse is linked to over half a million recorded crimes.

“When I married Prince Rainier, I married the man and not what he represented or what he was. I fell in love with him without giving a thought to anything else.”

One has to wonder quite what director Olivier ‘La Vie En Rose’ Dahan was aiming for with Grace of Monaco. What he’s made is a flashy, shallow, royal-em-up that oozes melodrama but lacks any sort of empathy – mostly because every character feels like they are being played by cardboard cut-outs.

The plot follows Grace Kelly (Nicole Kidman) as she tries to get to grips with the transition from Hollywood megastar to Princess of Monaco.

It seems that marrying into royalty isn’t necessarily a fairytale come true as her Prince ‘Charming’ Rainer (Tim Roth) turns out to be a carping and bossy nightmare to live with.

And to make matters worse Charles de Gaulle (André Penvern) is determined to crush Monaco’s tax-haven status and forcibly restore it to being part of France.

Turns out that Grace might just be the only hope of the small nation state’s survival but with foes on every side including some within her own court, she is going to have to pull of the ‘greatest role of her life’ in order to save the day.

Alas this fictionalised account – although based on true events – completely fumbles the political intrigue, instead turning the whole plot into a glitzy dumbed down bore-athon.

Kidman is at least mildly worth watching, she exudes a brittle beauty that radiates from the screen.

But nobody else seems to want to be in the film. Tim Roth is especially poor as Rainier, often inadvertently funny, but there seems to have been a bad outbreak of ham fever which strikes down all the supporting cast at various points. Roger Ashton-Griffiths, in particular, brings a highly unconvincing Alfred Hitchcock to the screen.

Only Father Francis Tucker (Frank Langella) comes away with any real credit as the priest who helps ‘Gracie’ learn to be the princess she must be if Monaco is to have an independent future.

Grace Of Monaco isn’t a film that you’ll enjoy if you’re looking for a decent biopic, an intelligent political thriller or a deep insight into Grace Kelly’s struggles.

If, however, you are willing to overlook the poor production values and just appreciate the lavish costumes, book your tickets today.

Farmers and landowners are being warned by police to be wary of raves being organised on their land.

The police are also asking members of the public to be alert to any possible rave-related activity which could include:

>The removal of locks from secured access points

> Vehicles, particularly panel vans, driving off-road

> Groups of vehicles congregating in rural areas

> Convoys of vehicles

> Loud music from remote woodland

Insp James Davies from the Aylesbury Vale neighbourhood team said: “We will take a robust line with illegal rave activity. Anyone considering holding or attending this type of event should reconsider their intentions carefully.

“Raves have a big impact on our rural communities, damaging crops, disrupting livestock and creating a noise nuisance.

“Not only this, but these unlicensed events pose significant safety concerns for those attending.

“As a result, Aylesbury Vale Local Police Area will always seek to disrupt events and prosecute the organisers.

“If you spot anyone suspicious who may be conducting early reconnaissance on rural land or even starting to set up an event, please report it on the Thames Valley Police non-emergency number, 101, as soon as possible.

“By receiving early warnings, Thames Valley Police has a much better chance of disrupting the rave and dispersing those responsible for its organisation.”

Regional director of The Country Land and Business Association Robin Edwards, said: “We urge farmers and landowners to help the police by reporting any suspicious activity, as early intervention and good local intelligence can prevent these illegal events and organisers can be dealt with appropriately.

“Raves cause a great deal of disruption to local communities and often result in damage being caused to property and land.

“Thames Valley Police’s proactive approach to reducing raves is very welcome as landowners can fall victim, bearing the considerable clean-up costs incurred.”

As football’s global showcase finally cranks into action, here are a few questions to ask yourself if you’re worried that you are being taken in once again by what’s billed as a samba-soaked celebration of s0ccer but is, as we all secretly suspect, nothing more than a slick machine for milking passion and, more importantly, money from mugs all around the world.

In case you’re wondering, answer yes to more than two of them and you should seek help.

1. Have you actually read any of the free World Cup guides that every newspaper and magazine has published in the last month?

2. Have you put a wallchart of fixtures up at home or at work, do you have highlighter pens on standby ready to fill it in?

3. Have you picked out a team in the office sweepstake, and can you name any of their players?

4. Do you have a flag of St George, or any other national flag, anywhere on your car, your house, or even your clothing?

5. Have you refused any opportunity for human interaction over the next month on the grounds that you have to stay in and watch the football?

6. Have you refused any opportunity for family interaction over the next month on the grounds that you have to go to the pub and watch the football?

7. Do you have strong opinions about who should be playing in the England team and why?

8. Do you have carefully-crafted opinions about which obscure player or unfancied team will turn out to be the surprise package of this tournament?

9. Are you enthusiastically filling out a sticker album even though you are allegedly a grown-up?

10. Do you think it’s entirely reasonable that you can put 11 part-timers who play for pin money up against 11 monsyllabic millionaires and not be able to tell by the standard of their play which is which?

11. Can you name any of the global enterprises which have shelled out millions to associate themselves with the tournament, and have you bought any of their products as a result?

12. Have you ever been tempted to dress up in costume to support your national side, or daub your face in the national colours?

13. Do you honestly believe that, in the unlikely event of your national team going all the way and scooping the most coveted prize in soccer – probably in a supremely dull final capped by a penalty shoot out – your life will be in any way improved?

14. Do you honestly believe that your national team has any chance of going all the way this year, or any year?

15. Even if you answered yes to only one question, are you still likely to watch at least some of the tournament?

16. Can you explain why?

A man has been convicted of raping a pregnant prostitute in his car 18 years ago before leaving her unconscious at the roadside.

Peter John Carroll, 55, of Barnsbury Avenue, Aylesbury has been brought to justice after police launched a cold case review which – with the aid of new technology – matched his DNA to the scene of the crime.

He had taken the 20-year-old victim to the White Horse Lane area of Trowse, a village a mile outside the centre of Norwich before raping, brutally attacking and attempting to strangle her in his car.

Despite her being four months pregnant at the time of the attack, the victim eventually managed to flag down a passing car and was rushed to hospital.

He was found guilty at Norwich Crown Court on Monday of rape and attempted grievous bodily harm with intent. The jury was unable to reach a verdict on a charge of attempted murder.

Carroll, who has spent most of his life in Aylesbury and was living in the town at the time of the offence, was tracked down by officers from the Joint Norfolk and Suffolk Major Investigation Team.

Detective Inspector Marie James of the Joint MIT, said: “This was a violent attack on a woman who was left with serious injuries to her head, neck and body.

“During the attack the victim fought back and in the process scratched Carroll’s face which was to prove crucial to this conviction.”

The victim, who worked as a prostitute at the time, was taken to the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital where she underwent a forensic examination and swabs and fingernail clippings were seized. At the time it was not possible to extract a DNA profile from the samples, however they were retained.

Carroll was arrested by detectives at his home in Aylesbury on the afternoon of Wednesday, December 18, 2013.

During police interviews he denied all responsibility for the attack despite the forensic evidence.

He did admit to visiting Norwich on occasions in his role as an engineer for an electrical goods company.

The following day Carroll was charged with attempted murder and rape.

Detective Inspector James added: “We hope that such a case proves how crucial forensic evidence can help secure a successful conviction no matter how long ago the offence took place.

“This was a horrific assault on a woman who has had to live with the consequences for more than 17 years.

“It has taken an enormous amount of courage on her to stand up in court and give evidence and we would like to commend her for the bravery she has shown.

“Such a case also shows the passing of time should not stand in the way of justice for victims who can be reassured we will do all we can to bring offenders before the courts.”

Carroll will be sentenced on July 11.

A school branded as ‘inadequate’ is still not making enough progress, say Ofsted inspectors.

The John Colet School in Wendover was flagged up as requiring improvement in January this year.

Ofsted has now visited the school again but their report states ‘senior leaders and governors are not taking effective action to tackle the areas requiring improvement’.

Inspectors also highlighted the use of jargon in the school’s strategy plan which is available on the school’s website.

They picked out phrases including ‘establish full flight path trajectories setting new benchmarks for expected student progress’, and ‘create a decision tree for sending underperforming students down individual or whole school intervention paths’.

However, the report did praise the school’s commitment to improve, plus its willingness to seek external advice.

Headteacher Christine McLintock said: “We fully accept, and are addressing, the four action areas identified by Ofsted, and other related points.”

Ms McLintock assured parents that the school is strengthening the senior leadership team through the appointment of a new deputy head in September.

She said: “The action plan is being refined, and simplified, to focus on improving learning and progress.

“To ensure swift improvement, only the top priority items within the action plan will be taken forward.

“We are fully committed to achieving improvement and look forward to reporting significant progress over the next year.”

Ofsted also paid a visit to the Mandeville School in Aylesbury – placed in special measures last year – and concluded that headteacher Geralyn Wilson is making ‘reasonable’ progress towards improving standards.

After the critical and commercial success of 12 Years A Slave, it’s no surprise that Hollywood has been looking to serve up other stories with similar ingredients.

So say hello to Belle – based on a true story, handsome historical drama, examining issues surrounding the slave trade. Tick, tick, tick.

This is a world away from Steve McQueen’s devastating drama, though – Belle is more Downton Abbey territory than down on the plantation.

Gugu Mbatha-Raw plays the mixed-race beauty raised as an aristocrat in 18th century England – and to be fair, she is part of the family, one of many children born of liaisons between masters and slaves in the far-off Caribbean.

Despite her inherited wealth, the colour of her skin condemns her to outsider status, and then she falls for the son of a reforming vicar.

There’s a top notch Brit cast and it all looks lovely, but it’s a bit stodgy.

Doctor Who sidekick Karen Gillan makes her bid for screen stardom in Oculus, a confusing would-be spine-chiller about a woman trying to prove her brother, recently released from a secure hospital, didn’t really kill their parents and it was all the fault of the evil mirror in the family home.

It comes from the team behind Paranormal Activity and Insidious, and offers some satisfyingly creepy moments, but the most unsettling thing is probably Amy Pond talking with an American accent.

Watch out for Devil’s Knot, the latest from Atom Egoyan – Colin Firth and Reese Witherspoon lead a ‘true story’ tale about three Bible Belt teenagers railroaded for the killing of a trio of little boys and the fight to clear them. Colin’s the investigator, Reese the mum of one of the victims determined to find out the truth.

In last week’s weather column, there was a distinctly football-orientated theme. My apologies to those not interested in the beautiful game as we’re returning to football again.

Belgium took on Tunisia in Brussels last Saturday, the final warm-up match for Belgium before the World Cup. It was certainly warm, with temperatures climbing to 30C during the daytime amidst high humidity. Midway through the first half, the intense heat triggered a thunderstorm over the King Baudouin Stadium in Brussels with torrential rain and frequent lightning.

Most spectacular of all, however, was the severe hail that accompanied the storm.

Chunks of ice the size of golf balls sent players and fans scurrying for cover; a wise decision, given that hail this size is dangerous enough to smash car windscreens.

Meanwhile, thousands of miles away across the Atlantic, another thunderstorm caused delays in Miami, Florida, as England took on Honduras. Just before half time, vivid lightning strikes forced officials to bring players off the pitch and urge fans to seek shelter.

Perhaps more so than in Europe, sporting events are often paused during thunderstorms in America as our Stateside counterparts seemingly have a greater awareness of the dangers posed by lightning.

Commentary during both the England and Belgium games was rather puzzling. Football pundits proclaimed that it was ridiculous to see hailstones in summertime, whilst the last thing anyone would have expected was lightning in Florida.

In actual fact, hail is quite common in summer as it forms high in thunderclouds where temperatures are well below freezing.

Imagine dropping a large lump of ice from an aircraft; it’s unlikely to completely melt on its way to the ground. As for declaring lightning in Florida as unusual, it is actually known as the lightning capital of America and thunderstorms occur daily in summer.

As for our weather, the threat of thundery downpours will recede with mainly dry and often quite sunny weather expected tomorrow and Friday.

With temperatures in the low 20s Celsius, it should feel warm.

Turning cooler and a little cloudier this weekend but staying mainly fine.

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