The media likes to talk about how millions died in the 1918 influenza pandemic. It’s true, but most deaths were in third world countries and unfortunately the same may happen this time.

When you look at the facts (more…)

Britains butterflies are suffering a dramatic decline. Can they be saved?

Read more at The Guardian.

Right at this moment I have a Large White butterfly crysylis attached to the frame of the back door. It should emerge in May or June.

Bea Arthur, who starred in the US television sitcom The Golden Girls has died of cancer at the age of 86.

As well as winning an Emmy for The Golden Girls and an earlier sitcom Maude, Bea Arthur won a Tony for the musical Mame.

In Britain The Golden Girls was something of a gay cult in the late 1980′s, when it was shown by Channel 4 and, in October 1988, the cast appeared on the Royal Variety Show at the request of the Queen Mother.

Feast! is one of the best summer events in Manchester.

It happens over three days around the lake in Platt Fields Park in Rusholme. You can take along a picnic and enjoy a wide range of performances and other fun. Best of all it’s completely free.

Here’s a clip from last year. (more…)