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Knickers in a twist: why M&S selling crotchless panties isn’t as outrageous as it seems
Marks & Spencer has faced online criticism for selling Ann Summers crotchless knickers, but the article argues the move is a relatively unsurprising extension of its broader lingerie range. It reflects M&S’s effort to offer more choice, attract younger shoppers and expand its online third-party brand strategy, rather than a fundamental break with its long…
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What makes a good comic novel? Andrew Sean Greer on the joy of funny writing
Andrew Sean Greer argues that comic novels are difficult to define but are distinguished by an author’s decision to treat painful, serious or absurd experiences as funny. He suggests that humour can reveal the same truths about love, grief, death and human behaviour as tragedy, while making difficult realities more bearable for readers. Drawing on…
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Have you ever switched allegiance as a football fan? You are not alone | Luke McLaughlin
Luke McLaughlin argues that changing football allegiances should not be treated as a moral failing, reflecting on his own shifting attachments to several clubs. He suggests fans need not invest unwavering emotional loyalty in one team, particularly when players and clubs themselves routinely change affiliations. His football support began with childhood glory-hunting for Everton and…
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Marketing stunt or ‘extraordinary’ transfer? Ravenna fans ride wave of the Ronaldinho Effect
Ronaldinho’s surprise decision to join Ravenna, a newly promoted Serie C club, has divided supporters between scepticism and excitement. Some see the 46-year-old Brazilian’s arrival as a marketing exercise, while others hope to witness a final flourish from one of football’s most celebrated players; the move has brought unusual global attention to a city better…
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The tangled financial web at the heart of Reform UK
The article examines the network of donors, advisers and business associates surrounding Reform UK, arguing that scrutiny has exposed increasingly close financial ties at the party’s centre. It focuses on Nigel Farage’s £5m gift from billionaire donor Christopher Harborne and raises questions about the transparency and origins of funding supporting a party seeking to form…
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Ditcheva outclasses Kielholtz on return from injury
Dakota Ditcheva returned from a year-long injury absence with a clear unanimous-decision victory over Denise Kielholtz at PFL New York, extending her unbeaten professional MMA record to 16 fights. The result reaffirmed the British flyweight’s standing as one of the PFL’s leading fighters, particularly as the promotion has merged with Most Valuable Promotions. Ditcheva, 28,…
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Sheffield city centre bus gate plans divide opinion
Plans for further bus gates in Sheffield city centre have prompted mixed views, with supporters arguing they would give buses priority, reduce congestion and make central streets more pleasant for walking and cycling. Critics are concerned that restricting through-traffic could make car journeys and access to businesses more difficult, shifting traffic onto nearby roads. The…
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One of Horror’s Most Disturbing Movies Returns in 4K Just in Time for Halloween
Pascal Laugier’s 2008 French horror film Martyrs is receiving separate standard-edition 4K UHD and Blu-ray releases in the UK ahead of Halloween. The reissue matters because the film is widely associated with the graphic, psychologically intense New French Extremity movement and remains a notable, controversial entry in modern horror. The releases are available to pre-order…
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In Canada: Angine de Poitrine, PUP & More Make SOCAN Polaris Song Prize Short List
– SOCAN Polaris Song Prize has announced a five-song shortlist, with the winner to receive $10,000 at a Massey Hall ceremony on 22 September. – The nominees are Angine de Poitrine, Charlotte Cornfield, PUP, Patrick Watson and Martha Wainwright, and Charlotte Day Wilson featuring Saya Gray. – SOCAN is also acquiring the Canadian Musical Reproduction…