The gathering took place at Sparrow Italia in the upscale Mayfair district, where notable attendees such as Helen Fielding, Richard E Grant, and pop artist Self Esteem enjoyed Campari spritzes and Crodinos. Guests later savored a delightful meal featuring octopus carpaccio and veal milanese, accompanied by generous pours of wine from Bird in Hand.

As part of the evening’s festivities, attendees were invited to pen their own anonymous letters addressed to Dolly Alderton. One standout dilemma read, “Help — I fancy all my friends’ fathers.” Dolly’s candid response? “Well, that sounds completely normal to me.”

Two years later, the structure conceived as Europe’s tallest building welcomed a new addition, colloquially known at the time as the Baby Shard.

This subsequent structure has since been renamed the News Building, housing major publishers like HarperCollins, The Wall Street Journal, and The Sun.

After a decade of silence regarding further development, Shard Place—the long-anticipated final component of the Shard Quarter—is now completed, with the inaugural tenant expected to take residence this June.

The 27-story glass edifice will feature high-end rental apartments, coupled with three levels of premium amenities, including London’s highest outdoor swimming pool.

On an unusually warm April day, The Times gets a preview of this heated pool’s refreshing ambiance. The Shard casts its imposing shadow over the deep end, while commuters seek refuge in the shade of London Bridge station below.

At poolside, yellow-and-white striped loungers await, accompanied by music from overhead speakers. Once half of the building is leased, George Hankinson, head of residential at REM, which oversees the Shard Quarter, mentions plans for tenant engagement through rooftop events like yoga classes.

The vision for high-rise living was integral to the initial designs for the Shard, with architect Renzo Piano and developer Irvine Sellar promoting the concept of a “vertical city.” 

High-profile companies such as Kraft Heinz and Al Jazeera currently occupy office spaces in the Shard, contributing to vibrant tourism with robust occupancy at the five-star Shangri-La hotel and within the building’s dining and nightlife venues.

However, residential units have struggled to gain traction. The Shard’s upper floors include ten vacant apartments, previously listed at prices ranging from £30 million to £50 million.

While designed with a “back stairs” service lift for meal deliveries and maintenance, the apartments have yet to be recorded as sold on the Land Registry.

“They are in the process of being occupied,” Hankinson stated, hesitantly revealing that these properties are owned but unoccupied.

Following the 2008 financial crisis, Qatari Diar—part of Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund—acquired 80 percent of the tower after initial financiers withdrew. Speculation suggests the Qatari royal family may retain ownership of some apartments; however, officials from Qatari Diar remain tight-lipped on the subject.

Currently, Shard Place stands as the sole opportunity for residents to claim a prestigious Shard address. Hankinson explains the strategy to rent all 176 apartments rather than sell, citing a desire to maintain assets. “We always wanted to keep it in our portfolio and manage it, rather than selling them off.”

Across the UK, a growing number of “build-to-rent” projects are emerging, where a single entity manages the building; notable retailers such as John Lewis and Westfield are also developing rental options. Predominantly targeting affluent young professionals, these projects align with current trends.

Shard Place experienced delays and cost overruns, ultimately exceeding its budget by at least £91 million, as documented in financial records from St Thomas Street Development, which operates under the Qatar Central Bank.

Significant expenses include approximately £25 million for replacing a standby generator that proved inadequate for the fire safety system, along with a £7 million repair bill following damage from a component leak affecting 24 apartments. Additionally, increased costs for materials stem from global supply chain challenges.

“Such issues are not unique to us. While the leak was a setback, it’s an unfortunate occurrence,” Hankinson explained.

Visually, Shard Place appears to float 16 meters above ground. Inside, a striking sound wave visual installation reflects the city’s dynamic rhythm, curving along the ceiling in the lengthy foyer adjacent to the postboxes. Over 1,000 curated artworks from more than 30 artists adorn the apartments and shared spaces.

Each unit features neutral, calming decor focusing on natural materials, and the core of the building is encased in Portland stone, showcasing fossil imprints. “These are real crustaceans,” Hankinson proudly noted. “All elements contribute to the building’s natural theme.”

Some apartments boast enclosed balconies that resemble glass bubbles overlooking the city, offering breathtaking views of the Thames.

The units available range from studios to three-bedroom apartments and span 425 to 1,486 square feet, all fully furnished. Tenants can opt to purchase linens and kitchenware from ProCook before settling in.

Hankinson anticipates that many renters will come from abroad, often arriving with minimal belongings and uncertain about local shopping options.

Market insights suggest the apartments may attract international students (given King’s College London’s proximity), businesses relocating employees, and affluent digital nomads.

Rental prices start at £3,033 for studios, £3,575 for one-bedroom units, £5,806 for two-bedroom accommodations, and reach £8,125 for three-bedrooms, amounting to about 85 percent higher than local averages, as per the Office for National Statistics.

While utility bills, including broadband, are not included, the apartments offer luxury living in central London near a major railway station, boasting super-king-size beds, desk nooks, and balconies wherever space permits, alongside 24-hour security and an on-site maintenance team.

The apartments feature air conditioning, triple-glazed windows, an energy management system, and automated leak detection, ensuring economical bills. A water softener is also installed to counteract London’s hard water for tenant convenience.

Notably, residents will enjoy the option of utilizing and reserving the climate-controlled outdoor pool on the 27th floor. The 16th floor offers sunbathing options with views of St Paul’s Cathedral, a residents’ “orangery,” and a mezzanine library awaiting books. Amenities also include a spa, workout studio, gym (with machines facing King’s College quadrangle), and a dining room that seats 12 with a chef’s kitchen.

“We’re excited to partner with the Shard’s restaurants to host exclusive events for residents and access their services,” Hankinson stated.

The building features various apartment layouts and four distinct design aesthetics curated by the interior design firm State of Craft. Tenants can select from two “Bermondsey” styles: one featuring an airy, fresh look with white decor and the other embracing earthy tones with taupe walls and green textiles. Alternatively, two “Borough” designs highlight contemporary urban oak furniture adorned with aubergine and gold elements or a darker palette with black furnishings and grey-blue accents.

International parents—especially from Asia—often purchase properties for their children studying in the UK as safe investments, though Mat Hobbs, head of investment lettings at Knight Frank, notes that fluctuating exchange rates have dampened these buying interests.

The prevailing global economic climate encourages families to opt for the flexibility of renting, with some retaining properties as a “wealth store” to cover luxury apartment rentals for their offspring. “The security, extensive amenities, and services at Shard Place alleviate many concerns parents may have,” Hobbs added.

However, awareness of the area remains limited; while noteworthy locations like Canary Wharf and the West End are widely recognized, Southwark might require some elaboration. Hankinson acknowledged, “People have heard of the Shard but might not know its specific location. I often inform them that Borough Market is open seven days, dispelling misconceptions about it just being a weekend attraction.”

“Younger generations, however, are generally more willing to explore new environments. We encourage them to discover Bermondsey Street and the various local restaurants, and they invariably appreciate the experience,” he concluded.

On Thursday, officials will convene to deliberate on extending the LDA’s responsibilities to include private housing alongside its existing public housing mandate. Officials have raised concerns regarding the agency’s struggles to secure sufficient public land in suitable locations, indicating that the potential for large-scale housing development on state lands is “dwindling.”

A source within the government disclosed over the weekend that plans are underway to strengthen land transfer powers related to public land held by commercial entities. This initiative aims to address the hesitation some state bodies exhibit when transferring land due to its commercial value, which could potentially involve compulsory purchase orders that officials are currently working to define.

The proposed modifications would transition the LDA from strictly public housing delivery to a broader focus on private housing projects. The discussions will present a vision of creating a balanced mix of private, social, and affordable housing on non-state lands, where economic feasibility permits.

The LDA’s focus is expected to expand from primarily urban areas to towns suitable for substantial housing projects. This shift would necessitate legal adjustments to allow the LDA to engage in towns with populations under 30,000.

Among the LDA’s primary functions are the development of housing on state lands transferred to it, delivery of affordable rental homes, and collaboration with local governments to create mixed tenure affordable and social housing schemes.

While the core mission of the LDA is to maximize affordable housing on public land, agency officials are acknowledging rising challenges to procure enough land in suitable locations and are increasingly looking to acquire privately held land.

Currently, of the 37 publicly owned sites intended for transfer to the LDA, two are in the construction phase, two are in procurement, and six more are undergoing planning and design. Collectively, these ten sites could potentially yield 5,600 new homes. However, the meeting will be informed that there are diminishing opportunities to activate “development ready” sites and produce housing on state lands.

There are only a limited number of available sites capable of accommodating an additional 4,000 homes. Numerous publicly owned sites face unlocking challenges due to the necessary substantial infrastructure and servicing investments.

Ministers will be advised that considering the ongoing issues, the “policy constraint of solely public housing delivery” must now be re-evaluated.

Additionally, the Department of Finance is believed to have prepared a document outlining various potential funding strategies for the proposed plans.

Another key aspect of the LDA’s expansion will include extending its collaborations beyond existing partnerships. Currently, the agency collaborates with four local authorities for large-scale housing projects across eight strategic sites.

In one cooperation, 195 cost rental homes, 51 affordable purchases, and 35 social homes were completed in Shanganagh, Dublin, with additional projects slated for this year involving 110 cost rental, 40 affordable purchases, and 165 social homes. The LDA is also engaged with Dublin City Council on four separate projects, each at different stages. Approximately 700 homes are under construction, 1,200 are in the tender stage, and 383 are pending planning.

Further collaborations exist with Galway City Council, Limerick City and County Council, and Cork City Council. Together, these initiatives have a potential output of 3,000 new homes, estimated at 2,000 being cost rental and affordable options, and 1,000 designated as social homes. The LDA prioritizes these metropolitan areas due to urgent housing needs and resource allocations while the government considers expanding focus to encompass more rural areas, including smaller towns.

Meanwhile, plans for the Housing Activation Office are set to advance, despite existing controversies concerning the shelved appointment of a “housing tsar.”

Graham Doyle, the Secretary General of the Department of Housing, has indicated that a “tsar” is unnecessary to resolve obstacles related to housing delivery.

His remarks were made during a housing event hosted by Property Industry Ireland, where attendees were invited to share their views on the necessity of appointing a housing tsar, as reported by The Business Post.

Doyle commented, “I voted no,” igniting backlash within Fianna Fail and Fine Gael, as both parties aim to steer clear of any further discussion or controversy surrounding the “tsar” role after the proposed appointment of Nama chief Brendan McDonagh faced public disapproval due to his dual role that would have kept his €430,000 salary.

Last Friday, Housing Minister James Browne mentioned that he had addressed Doyle’s statement regarding the terminology used, clarifying that Doyle fully supports the initiative.

Government officials are eager to move away from the term “housing tsar” and instead will designate a “head” for the new office to tackle project impediments.

Advanced discussions are also taking place regarding potential modifications to rent pressure zones, with coalition members expressing concern about what could amount to a “significant” policy change in the rental landscape, potentially leading to heightened rent caps in various zones.

At 60 years old, DeCourcy had previously resided in a 1960s farmhouse on Shelter Island, which she described as “lovely, but very spare and modern.” A former chief creative officer at Wieden+Kennedy, the agency famously associated with Nike’s “Just Do It” campaign, she envisioned a more traditional aesthetic for this home and sought out designer Heidi Caillier for her vision.

The two connected through the Expert platform, where designers are matched with clients. What began as a discussion about the kitchen soon expanded into a vision for the entire home. DeCourcy’s brief was inspiring: “A magical house in the woods that was quirky, eccentric, creative, and colorful.”

It was a perfect collaboration—DeCourcy, a storyteller with a fondness for Hans Christian Andersen fairytales, and Caillier, known for her artistic maximalism. DeCourcy was taken aback upon learning that the land had previously undergone extensive alteration—top soil was removed to build the house. To restore the environment, the pair brought in 300 trees, including 30-foot Lebanese cedar, Asian pine, and ginkgo trees.

Landscape designer Charles Marder contributed to the project, ensuring that plant life seemed to have matured naturally over the years. DeCourcy describes Marder as a “real craftsman—he works with the Spielbergs.” The once-bright blue pool was transformed into a natural pond that DeCourcy and her family enjoy regularly.

Inside, the impressive 7,500 square-foot home initially seemed “well-made but unimaginative and drab.” DeCourcy prioritized infusing color into the space, achieving a chiaroscuro effect reminiscent of the Dutch masters. Rich hues of carmine, aubergine, and olive create a warm and inviting atmosphere, complemented by mixed fabrics that effortlessly blend together.

DeCourcy enjoys spending her leisure time in the library, filled with dark brown shelves and a curated collection of books. This cozy space invites simple joys like listening to jazz and reading. Since leaving her position at Snapchat earlier this year, she has spent countless hours enjoying the library’s inviting ambiance, accentuated by a floral-patterned Howe sofa and plaid armchairs from Jamb.

While she believes that true creativity flourishes when designers are given free rein, DeCourcy actively participated in the design process. Her own SoHo apartment showcases her sophisticated taste, filled with French furniture from notable designers.

DeCourcy’s affinity for BDDW, a brand known for bespoke handcrafted pieces, is evident throughout her home, with standout furniture including sofas, chairs, and intricately designed Delft-style tiles in the kitchen.

Her desire for a teal deVol kitchen, which she first encountered years ago while living in the UK, is now fulfilled in her Hamptons hideaway.

DeCourcy treasures her collection of small, meaningful artifacts that tell stories and capture her imagination. These pieces include artworks “held together with bits of tape and glue,” embodying her creative spirit.

Art extends beyond conventional frames. In the dining area, a mural depicting local wildlife enhances the atmosphere, while the master bedroom features a unique ceramic installation by artist Bradley Sabin that blends botanical and fantastical themes.

Looking ahead, DeCourcy plans to renovate the basement, which will include a cinema room, bar, wine cellar, and additional living space. Excited about the progress made so far, she articulates her vision: “What I really wanted was a place for my imagination to run, somewhere that stimulated me visually.”

The situation raises the question: Was Trudeau attempting to convey a sense of being trendy and relatable? Is an occasion where the King and Queen visit the Canadian parliament to discuss sovereignty really the right moment for such an unconventional expression? He did not appear stylish; instead, he looked ill-prepared for a formal event. Trudeau, at 53 years old and recently out of office, should have acknowledged the gravity of the occasion.

Could he not have chosen a proper pair of shoes? The mismatch of the outfit was glaring; trainers of that style do not complement a suit and tie. The entire look felt out of place and inappropriate. While such observations may sound akin to traditionalists lamenting the loss of bygone sartorial standards, they reflect a genuine concern for dressing suitably for formal functions.

For the record, I do not subscribe to the notion that the shoe choice was disrespectful to the King. I suspect King Charles is indifferent to the specific footwear of those he meets. However, Trudeau’s choice raises questions about his image and the message his shoes conveyed in that context. Carney, known for advising Trudeau on economic matters, has also been seen in questionable footwear, yet he showcased a more appropriate style when it mattered.

A friend predicts that Trudeau’s sneaker style might trend at weddings this summer, though I hope many will reconsider mimicking a middle-aged politician. If one opts for vibrant trainers, pairing them with casual jeans and stylish tops may be a more fitting choice. Personally, I own several pairs of Gazelles and wore a dark blue model to commute, switching to smarter shoes for my meetings.

Unless stated otherwise, formal events come with defined dress codes to ensure everyone feels at ease. If attire doesn’t align with those expectations, perhaps it’s better to decline the invitation. Dress codes exist to create a level playing field, akin to manners. The next time, Trudeau, remember your status as a seasoned public figure. You likely possess dress shoes, and clearly, you know how to lace up. It’s time to make the right choice.

‘When Comfort Reigns, Choose Appropriate Footwear for Royal Engagements’

By Jeremy Langmead

King Charles likely observes with incredulity the diverse footwear worn at formal events recently. Notably, artist David Hockney donned vibrant yellow Crocs at a post-coronation luncheon, and Trudeau’s striking Gazelles have since sparked debate.

I support the sneaker-and-suit combination, though it’s advisable to stick to simple white or dark trainers for formal settings.

Adidas offers the Samba, a timeless sneaker that remains fashionable. Celebrity Harry Styles is among its admirers, and the collaboration between British designer Grace Wales Bonner and Adidas has garnered substantial attention. Yet, even as comfort increasingly takes precedence in fashion, formal shoes may still be advisable when engaging with royalty.

Despite the sneaker trend’s permanence, boardrooms and upscale restaurants now routinely see tech entrepreneurs and financiers pairing them with chinos and stylish blazers. However, it tends to be the understated, high-end sneakers from brands like Brunello Cucinelli and Loro Piana that dominate these environments, valued for their subtlety rather than ostentation.

Trudeau’s trainers, although suitable for casual outings, seemed out of sync with his formal ensemble, echoing chaotic moments from the series Succession, where character Kendall Roy is often seen rushingly dressed in flashy trainers. Jeremy Langmead serves as brand director at Mr Porter.

Five Sneakers Suitable for Formal Attire

From top:

• Brunello Cucinelli Vulky Suede, £905

• Mr Porter Alec Suede, £225

• Loro Piana 410 Walk Wish, £1,035

• Russell and Bromley Relay, £195

• Marks & Spencer leather trainers, £65

Shaw remarked, “It was a long journey, so the recognition is great.” He acquired the plot in 2016 through an auction, having remortgaged his Stepney Green residence. Along with a university friend, they divided the property to construct their respective homes. While construction began in 2019, its progress was briefly stalled by the pandemic, and it ultimately wrapped up in the summer of 2021.

Before Transformation

The Walthamstow site was overgrown and rundown before the renovation.

Delays during the project arose from a range of complications. The site had previously been approved for a design Shaw deemed unsatisfactory, necessitating two rounds of planning approvals. Additionally, he required 27 party wall awards, which involved directly contacting neighboring residents for consent—a process that extended over six months.

Securing a self-build mortgage proved to be particularly challenging, lasting an entire year. “It’s quite niche, and I was just starting my practice, so my income was modest at first,” Shaw explained, recalling that he borrowed £300,000, the maximum amount available to him.

Construction Phase

Construction efforts commenced in 2019 and culminated in summer 2021.

Shaw meticulously refined the design of his two-bedroom, two-bathroom home, prioritizing orientation and budget. Utilizing the 3D modeling software SketchUp, he analyzed the west-facing space to optimize sunlight exposure. “I spent months adjusting a bar that tracks the sun’s movement throughout the year,” he noted, emphasizing that the abundant sunlight in his kitchen and the first-floor snug—perfect for sunset viewing—were intentional design choices.

Named Catching Sun House, the residence is designed to maximize warmth and natural light. Underfloor heating beneath polished concrete flooring contributes long-lasting warmth, while the exposed wall blocks both retain heat and serve as stylish radiators. Reclaimed from a previous production run, these blocks spared Shaw from additional DIY work he dreads. Favoring low-maintenance materials, he opted for aluminum window frames to streamline upkeep.

Final Outcome

Having invested £265,000 in the land and approximately £400,000 in the construction, Shaw’s property now holds a value nearing £1 million.

Though the aesthetic leans towards industrial, the peaceful environment and three courtyards evoke a sense of California over typical suburban life. The house features unexpected details, such as an outdoor-style shower housed in a glass enclosure on the patio, inspired by Shaw’s travels in Thailand. He meticulously designed it, ensuring privacy from neighboring properties, aided by frosted glass panels.

Further enhancing the guest room, Shaw incorporated a stainless-steel bath uniquely sunk into the ground. Landscape designer Charlie Hawkes contributed a lush, jungle-like planting scheme that amplifies the oasis feel, echoing the wild growth he initially noted on the site. “We emphasized this idea to create a more immersive urban retreat,” shared Hawkes, a double gold medalist at the Chelsea Flower Show. Large Tetrapanax ‘Rex’ plants were a luxurious addition, making the bathing experience feel tropical—a rare claim for a home near the North Circular Road.

To efficiently manage costs, Shaw took charge of several subcontractors, wary of overblown claims he’d heard from others. Each aspect of the project had a budget with a 10 percent contingency, and unlike typical scenarios in home renovation tales, he managed to keep everything in line. When the glazing company folded, he remained calm as it was soon acquired by a larger entity which fulfilled its commitments. Added together with an approximate £100,000 for furnishings, landscaping, and high-end kitchen appliances, the overall expenditure comes to £400,000, alongside the initial land cost of £265,000. Given the estimated valuation of Catching Sun House at around £1 million, Shaw’s investment is firmly in the black.

At present, he has no plans to relocate. “The brief was deeply personal. It symbolizes the shift from chaos to tranquility. It’s a refreshing escape from everything,” he reflects. Most importantly, it is perpetually warm and naturally lit.

Hessayon was known for his reluctance to make public appearances or take part in interviews. He expressed a complex relationship with gardening, stating, “I know too much for it to be therapeutic. Problems are always looming.” Initially, he found the expansive garden attached to his Regency home in Halstead, Essex, daunting, which included a sprawling one-acre vegetable plot acquired in 1995 with his wife, Joan.

His vast readership was familiar with him solely as “Dr. DG Hessayon,” a title displayed prominently on his book covers, where he was viewed as a trusted gardening authority. Nicknamed “the Doc” by his publishers and colleagues, but known as “Dave” among friends, Hessayon launched his first book, Be Your Own Gardening Expert, in 1959 with a significant run of 100,000 copies.

At that time, he was the technical director of Pan Britannica (PBI), known for products like BabyBio “plant food.” The book was partly created as a marketing tool for PBI and also a personal reference for Hessayon, a self-taught gardener who had grown his knowledge “from scratch, without assistance and lacking modern tools.”

The book featured a pioneering design melding hand-drawn illustrations with concise instructions, priced at 1s 6d, and became a remarkable success, staying in print for over 50 years and being translated into 17 languages. This effective approach led to the creation of the Expert series, which ultimately included 25 main titles, addressing a wide variety of gardening topics from flowers and herbs to pests and diseases, often meant to endure wear and tear from real gardeners. “I envision them getting dog-eared in the hands of diligent workers,” he remarked.

His books were described as the “mongrels of horticulture,” contrasting sharply with polished coffee-table books, yet they provided essential information for both novice and seasoned gardeners alike.

Hessayon had a unique take on grammar and utilized his distinct style—favoring dashes and split infinitives while avoiding semi-colons. His research was thorough; for his 2008 book on orchids, he tested various cultivation methods to present readers with the most effective practices. Gardening writer Stephen Anderton noted, “Chasing the latest trend overlooks that all essential information is right there in the Expert series.”

Some of his advice pushed boundaries, including practical tips often overlooked by other authors, like not wearing a tie while barbecuing or the simplest way to enjoy vegetables being to eat them raw. Additionally, he addressed the importance of safely lifting heavy garden items, acknowledging the frequency of accidents in gardening.

Hessayon dismissed rigid concepts of floral design, suggesting that gardening should not be an art form but a craft, noting the inconsistency of so-called purists, saying, “It’s astonishing how they fuss over color combinations yet accept nature’s randomness.”

The appeal of the Expert series was also in its nostalgic and straightforward aesthetic, reminiscent of 1950s children’s literature. This unpretentious design, combined with availability in garden centers and hardware stores, attracted many who normally wouldn’t buy books, leading to widespread ownership in British households.

Enjoying his status as an outlier in the publishing world, Hessayon managed remarkable sales without relying on television appearances, preferring to remain largely anonymous at events like the Chelsea Flower Show. Never one for book signings or public readings, he relished the absence of fame’s pressures, although audiences could engage him in detailed conversations about horticulture.

In the 2000s, he explored contemporary topics, introducing an “Expert” series around recipes for fruits and vegetables and promoting wildlife-friendly gardening. After being recognized as the best-selling author of the 1990s by Guinness World Records, he remarked in 2013, “I feel for new authors; the market for how-to books has shrunk significantly as readers now prefer visually-driven content.”

Born in Manchester in 1928 to Armenian-Cypriot immigrant parents, Hessayon faced significant life challenges, including the death of his mother when he was just four. He fondly recalled tending to a small garden plot with his father, which laid the groundwork for his lifelong passion for gardening.

His academic journey began with a botany scholarship to Leeds University, where he later met Joan on a trip to Paris. Their relationship flourished into marriage in 1951, though Hessayon humorously described Joan’s methods of managing his more energetic moods.

After teaching soil science in Africa, he returned to Manchester to earn a PhD in soil ecology in 1954, where he unearthed his desire to become an author. His path merged with Pan Britannica in 1955, where his dual roles in technical writing and marketing flourished.

Despite initial hesitance from his employers, he produced the first Expert book and committed to repaying publication costs if it did not succeed. This initiative led to a long-lasting partnership, and he subsequently received multiple accolades including the RHS Veitch Memorial Medal, the Lifetime Achievement Award at the British Books Awards, and an OBE in 2007. He is survived by his daughters, Jacqueline and Angelina.

With few interests outside of his work and family, Hessayon enjoyed delving into history and favored uplifting films. He viewed his readers’ needs as paramount, stating, “My opinions are irrelevant; the focus should be on straightforward guidance.”

David Hessayon OBE, celebrated author and gardening expert, was born on February 13, 1928, and passed away on January 16, 2025, at 96.

This wasn’t my first unexpected experience through Vinted, but prior surprises had only included slightly damaged shoes or jeans that didn’t fit. A gun photo was a whole different level.

Perhaps I should have thought more carefully before clicking the “buy” button for the “Max Mara hooded wrap coat” while watching TV. It had just surfaced on my feed half an hour earlier, showcasing the app’s algorithm working to present content based on my interests.

In hindsight, this purchase was clearly a poor decision. The seller’s name—a random assortment of numbers and letters—should have raised a red flag, and their lack of a profile picture, no other items for sale, and absent transaction history added to my concerns. The price of £39 also seemed suspicious, especially considering that new Max Mara coats are typically priced at over £2,000.

However, having always perceived the Vinted community—reportedly harboring 16 million UK users last year—as polite and trustworthy, I foolishly overlooked these warning signs. Additionally, the buyer protection feature reassured me that if anything went wrong, such as receiving a damaged or counterfeit item, I could file a complaint for a prompt refund, as payments are held until the buyer confirms satisfaction with their purchase.

I arranged for the bulky coat to be delivered by Yodel to my local newsagent instead of my home. A few days later, I eagerly awaited my new addition to the wardrobe. However, when the shopkeeper returned, it was with a small envelope rather than the expected large package. Inside was a flimsy nylon nightie in size 2XL, something that would be best kept away from any form of heat.

It was clearly a scam, but what baffled me was how the seller intended to benefit. I clicked the “I have an issue” button within the app and sent pictures of the received item to Vinted. The seller quickly replied, claiming a mix-up had occurred. They suggested that if I canceled the dispute, they would send the coat. I declined.

That’s when the situation turned alarming. I received a threatening message stating, “I just need your money. I have your address. I hope nothing will happen to you. Otherwise, my friends will come to your house to rob you. Take care of your family!” Accompanying this message was a photo of some type of assault rifle.

While the parcel hadn’t been delivered to my residence, I remained unsure whether the seller had access to my home address.

Concerned, I reached out to Vinted through the app and an email address I found for their legal department. I also contacted the police, who assured me that an officer would be sent to take my statement. Ultimately, I canceled the dispute, reluctantly releasing the funds to the scammer, as I have a small child and prioritized safety over any financial loss.

Fortunately, Vinted informed me that the shipping label displayed a store address, not mine, and they assured me of cooperation with local authorities if necessary, also blocking the seller’s account. Still, I couldn’t shake the worry of whether the seller could discover my identity and find me.

At least now that the weather is warming up, I no longer have any need for that coat.

In a study published in the journal Annals of Medicine, Dr. Tiia Kekäläinen emphasized the importance of addressing unhealthy behaviors as early as possible to prevent long-term damage that can lead to diminished mental and physical health. These behaviors can escalate the risks of conditions such as depression, cancer, heart disease, and premature mortality.

Nutritionist Sam Rice, author of Supercharge Your Diet: Ten Easy Ways to Get Everything You Need From Your Food, noted, “It’s a common understanding for anyone past 40 that recovering from a weekend of excess becomes more challenging with age. Our bodies gradually lose efficiency in metabolizing food and drink, leading to worse hangovers and potential digestive issues. Although 36 might not be the tipping point for everyone due to genetic factors, it’s a crucial period to evaluate your health habits.”

For those who find themselves already in middle age, Rice reassures, “It’s never too late to embrace healthier living. Improving your diet in your midlife years is closely associated with an extended health span, defined as the duration of years lived healthy and active. Here are some expert tips on how to mitigate damage as you advance into your forties, fifties, and beyond…”

Your Thirties

According to Rice, individuals in their thirties should prioritize the overall quality and variety of their diets rather than fixating on specific nutrients. Preparing simple meals at home is advisable. This decade is also an ideal time to prioritize brain and heart health by incorporating oily fish, avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil into your diet, alongside plenty of vibrant fruits and vegetables.

Personal trainer Matt Roberts observes that bad habits often emerge during your thirties. “I frequently encounter individuals who were once active in their younger years becoming increasingly sedentary as work and family commitments take precedence. This decline in activity often leads to unhealthy coping mechanisms, like increased drinking or reliance on junk food, resulting in lower energy levels for exercise.” Fortunately, restarting a fitness regimen can yield quick benefits. Research indicates that people can experience positive responses to new exercise routines, enhancing heart and lung capacity well into their fifties and sixties. Any form of physical activity, whether jogging, weightlifting, or Pilates, can significantly boost overall health.

If you smoke, now is the time to seek assistance in quitting. A study published in the British Medical Journal suggests that quitting before the age of 30 significantly decreases the chances of a shortened lifespan due to smoking.

Your Forties

During your forties, monitoring alcohol consumption is essential, according to Karen Tyrell, CEO of the charity Drinkaware. “Our research shows that individuals aged 45 to 54 are most likely to surpass the recommended drinking limits set by UK health authorities, which suggest no more than 14 units of alcohol per week for both men and women.” Tyrell notes that the health impacts of alcohol are cumulative, increasing the risks of certain cancers, heart issues, and liver disease. However, cutting back on alcohol can lead to significant health improvements at any age.

She recommends aiming for two to three alcohol-free days per week, while being cautious of binge drinking, which can adversely affect mood, memory, and sleep, as well as elevate the risk of alcohol-related illnesses. Additionally, it’s important to identify personal triggers for drinking, whether they stem from stress or simply social situations.

As individuals transition into midlife, Rice notes that body fat often redistributes toward the abdomen. To counteract this, it’s essential to monitor caloric intake, increase protein consumption while reducing carbohydrates to maintain muscle mass, and incorporate plenty of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, such as leafy greens and berries. This approach can help mitigate the risks of chronic diseases like cancer and type 2 diabetes while reducing inflammation.

Roberts advises engaging in low-impact cardio exercises, around 40 minutes three to four times weekly, to burn fat and lower arterial plaque and cholesterol. Activities could range from brisk walking to cycling.

Your Fifties

For those in their fifties, it’s crucial to incorporate weight training into your routine. Research from the University of British Columbia analyzing 3,600 adults over 50 revealed that individuals with greater muscle mass demonstrated lower risks of mortality from all major causes. Furthermore, a 2017 study published in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research found that two 30-minute sessions of strength training weekly help improve bone density. Another study indicated that women who engaged in two or more weight training sessions weekly could reduce their chances of becoming obese later in life by as much as 30 percent.

Still smoking? Quitting by the age of 50 can cut your risk of premature death due to smoking-related conditions by half, as indicated by a BMJ study.

When it comes to alcohol consumption, research from Drinkaware reveals that individuals aged 55 to 64 constitute the second most significant age group likely to exceed safe drinking guidelines. Tyrell recommends users undergo a “drinking MoT” to assess and improve their drinking habits using Drinkaware’s free Drinking Check test.

Your Sixties and Beyond

According to Rice, individuals over 60 often exhibit decreased activity levels and are more susceptible to muscle loss. This decline lowers metabolic rate and, coupled with less efficient digestion, necessitates obtaining more nutrients from fewer calories. Emphasizing nutrient-dense foods, particularly protein-rich options like lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy, beans, nuts, seeds, and various vegetables, becomes paramount. Generally adhering to the Mediterranean diet is highly recommended, as it serves as a solid nutritional foundation at any age. Supplementation with vitamin D is also crucial, not only for bolstering bone density but also due to emerging studies suggesting it may help in preventing cognitive decline.

Roberts notes that maintaining fitness in older age focuses on mobility and flexibility, recommending practices such as yoga or Pilates. Even simpler exercises, such as balancing on one leg, can be beneficial. Dr. Michael Mosley, a physician and broadcaster, highlighted in one of his podcasts that the ability to balance on one leg for brief periods may predict longevity, as maintaining balance challenges cognitive function while strengthening leg muscles and enhancing stability to prevent falls as one ages.

Ultimately, Roberts emphasizes that a positive attitude toward aging is crucial: “Growing old is unavoidable, but surrendering to unhealthy habits is not.”