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Councillors have today decided to move to impose an overnight ban on campervans using council car parks along the NC500 route.

The decision followed complaints from locals about waste dumping and anti-social behaviour.

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Tourists who road trip on the spectacular route across the north Highlands has attracted criticism[/caption]

Highland Council’s Sutherland County Committee unanimously agreed to recommend the ban at two key car parks where overnight stays are currently permitted.

At present, these car parks, located in Durness and Golspie on the NC500 route, allow campervans to stay overnight for £10 per night.

Visitors are currently restricted to a single night’s stay and are prohibited from returning within 72 hours.

While daytime parking would remain unaffected, the council’s parking enforcement team would begin policing overnight stays.

At present, parking penalty charges stand at £100, reduced to £50 if paid within 14 days.

A motion tabled by councillors Richard Gale and Jim McGillivray stated: “Given the impact of overnight parking of campervans in council car parks leading to inappropriate waste disposal and other anti-social behaviour, the Sutherland Area Committee agrees to impose a ban on all overnight campervan and motorhome parking in council car parks in the County of Sutherland, with signage being put in place to direct them to alternative parking options in the local area.

Mr Gale remarked that he had been “bombarded” with emails from angry residents.

He cited an example of 12 campervans and motorhomes parking at Shore Street car park in Golspie, including in a disabled parking bay.

Mr McGillivray noted similar issues in Dornoch, where signs warn against overnight stays, despite the proximity of a private campsite just a short distance away.

“I am unhappy with Highland Council’s use of public money introducing unfair competition with private camping and caravan sites,” he added.

The full council will now be asked to approve the ban.

However, council officers have warned of significant financial implications.

Additional enforcement costs could range from £4,100 (for overtime using existing staff) to £41,000 (if a full-time enforcement officer is required).

One-off costs for signage and marking changes are estimated at £1,000.

The report also noted potential risks of further costs associated with Road Traffic Orders but stated that no quantified assumptions had yet been made.

A detailed site-by-site assessment would be conducted if the motion progresses.

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Locals to the NC500 said their villages are being invaded by campervans[/caption]

The proposal aims to restrict overnight campervan parking to designated caravan and camping sites.

While this could reduce inappropriate waste disposal and anti-social behaviour, there is concern that displaced campervans might park in laybys or engage in wild camping, potentially causing greater disruption in rural areas.

Sutherland councillor Hugh Morrison, vice-chair of the committee, criticised the council’s current approach, saying: “The community councils in certain areas of Sutherland along the NC500 are very unhappy about the way Highland Council have dumped these mobile homes in the centre of their villages through this overnight scheme, which is only an invitation to pay anyway.

“There are no amenities close to these car parks as well.”

The Highland Campervan and Motorhome Scheme, introduced last year, was intended to address issues related to indiscriminate overnight parking.

Costing £40 for a seven-day pass, the scheme offers access to 12 council-owned car parks for overnight stays, as well as access to High Life Highland facilities for washing.

However, it excludes waste disposal.

Despite being the first scheme of its kind in the UK, it has been poorly received.

As of August, fewer than 40 permits had been sold.

Conservative MSP Edward Mountain has called for the scheme to be scrapped, claiming it could cost £2 million.

“What we should be doing is encouraging the 27 per cent of motorhome users on the NC500 who don’t use campsites to go into local campsites and use the facilities there,” he said.

“The council going into competition with these businesses is madness, especially as six weeks into the scheme, they have sold less than 40 permits.”

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The NC500 has been long the subject of complaints from locals[/caption]

Parking enforcement currently operates between 8am and 10pm, meaning the council’s overnight parking rules (10pm to 8am) are difficult to enforce.

The NC500 has long been the subject of complaints from locals.

While hailed by National Geographic, CNN, and TV shows like Top Gear as one of the world’s greatest road trips, tensions have escalated over the years.

Police have responded to motoring issues along the 516-mile route, including speeding, slow-moving motorhome convoys, and long tailbacks caused by bikers.

In 2018, police investigated incidents involving attempts to puncture vehicle tyres, with roofing tacks discovered scattered on a road near Bettyhill.

Despite these challenges, the NC500 is estimated to contribute over £22 million annually to the local economy.

The route has been described as both “a highway to hell” and “a road paved with gold,” reflecting its dual impact of boosting tourism while frustrating residents.

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The popular route has been a source of controversy[/caption]

AFFORDABLE, reliable, practical and available at a good price. That pretty much defines our pick of the best all-around car on Sun Motors right now.

Searching for a new car is a whole lot easier with Sun Motors. There’s no need to drive around to dealers, you can search from a hand-picked selection of fair-priced, high-quality cars from trusted dealerships.

Every Sun Motors car has been checked by an expert to ensure it’s in tip-top condition and safe to drive.

You can also access finance, too – even if you’ve been refused elsewhere.

The best place to buy a car in the UK? We think so, especially when you can pick up a bargain like our choice of the best all-round car available.

What is Sun Motors?

Sun Motors is on a mission to make buying a new car fast, fun and easy. How? We put the power in your hands, enabling you to search through thousands of used cars, all being sold by a trusted dealer. 

All used car dealers have been pre-approved to ensure they meet our standards.

That means the cars they sell have all been checked before being advertised for sale. You can buy with complete confidence. 

We’re also making it easier to apply for finance. You’ll see a range of repayment options, including the chance to buy the car outright or apply for HP or PCP. 

Our choice of the best all-round car: 2021 Ford Puma

Model: Ford Puma 1.0T EcoBoost MHEV Vignale

Model: Ford Puma 1.0T EcoBoost MHEV Vignale

We’re old enough to remember the original Ford Puma with the Steve McQueen advert.

We reckon that this 2021 facelift Ford Focus is just as cool. This fantastic Ford has a huge number of fans, including Whatcar?, who awarded the Puma it its “Most Loved Car” award in 2021.

The Ford Puma looks great. The 5-door ST-Line version here is big enough for a growing family, but when you’ve dropped the kids off at school, it’s stylish enough to make a statement wherever you end up.

The Puma has a good reliability record and with Ford’s strong dealer network, you’re not going to need to travel far for a tune-up, service or repair.

Mileage

With just 51,000 Miles, this Ford Puma is barely broken in. These cars can operate for high mileages, as long as they’re well maintained.

The highly economical EcoBoost engine works well with the 6-speed gearbox to make short city trips, or long motorway journeys a pleasure in the Puma.

Initial problems with the Ecoboost engine have been ironed out on the 2021 models, FordOwnersClub members say.

Buying a used car? Find cars for under £200 on Sun Motors here.

Model

The Ford Puma 1.0T EcoBoost MHEV is described as a ‘mild hybrid’. As well as a powerful, but economical 155bhp engine, there’s also a small electric motor and battery.

This works in combination with the petrol-powered engine to improve fuel efficiency and lower emissions.

We’ve selected the Vignale version of the Ford Puma because we think it delivers a huge amount of value for a (relatively) small uplift in price.

Come on, you deserve a little luxury – even while ferrying the kids to and from school, football or endless birthday parties.

Upholstery

This is where things get exciting. The Vignale trim provides you with a whole host of upgrades, including leather seats, front massaging seats and an impressive in-car entertainment system.

It’s about as top-of-the-range as you’ll get from Ford, which is good enough for us.

Engine size 

The 1.0 litre EcoBoost engine may not sound powerful, but it’ll take you from 0-62mph in 9.0 seconds. That’s not to be sniffed at, especially with fuel economy averaging over 50mpg.

The mild-hybrid engine provides enough of a push, with Auto Express saying she will reach a top speed of 118mph.

Safety features

The Ford Puma is a great family car that’s packed with advanced safety features, including blind-spot assist monitoring, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and traffic sign recognition. 

You‘ve also got a whole host of airbags and a rearview camera to ensure no reversing bumps or blunders.

Overall opinion

We love the Ford Puma 1.0T EcoBoost Vignale. Even better than the fantastic performance is the price tag, with this one coming in at a reasonable £15,995.

Model: Ford Puma 1.0T EcoBoost MHEV Vignale

If you prefer, you can stick down a small deposit and pay it back at less than £250 per month.

It’s a really smart, feature-packed and fun car that’s suitable for all circumstances. Sure, the Vignale trim is an indulgent extra, but we think you’re worth it. 

As well as great performance, filling the tank of the Ford Puma won’t cause you too much pain at the pump either, with the EcoBoost mild hybrid delivering an impressive 50mpg.

This Ford Puma won’t hang around for long, but don’t worry, Sun Motors is packed full of competitively priced cars. Don’t fancy a Ford? You can search all cars, makes and models in seconds.

Buying a used car? Find cars for under £150 on Sun Motors here.

How does Sun Motors make buying a used car easy?

Firstly, it’s simple to search for the car you want using the intelligent search function.

You can type the make and model and then add other information, like your top monthly payment amount. Click enter and let the intelligent algorithm do the rest.

When you’ve found a car you like, you can use WhatsApp to message your car dealer to discuss anything, from the essential specs to fuel economy, engine performance and price. 

Don’t worry, there’s no pressure or pushy salespeople. You can ask questions when you want over WhatsApp. 

Sun Motors can even help those with poor credit or people who may have struggled to access finance in the past. You can buy a car and even apply for flexible finance, all from the comfort of your armchair. 

Some dealers will even deliver your car to you (for a fee, obviously).

Benefits of buying a used car

Buying a used car is the best way to pick up a bargain.

New cars depreciate the moment your foot touches the accelerator, with some vehicles like the Vauxhall Corsa Electric losing an eye-watering 70% in just three years.

The used car market enables you to choose from literally thousands of motors, from nearly new cars with that fresh smell to high-mileage, low-cost bargains.

You’ll also find that accessible financing options like PCP and HP enable more people than ever to get the cars they want with affordable monthly repayments.

Is it easy to insure a used car?

Insuring a used car is simple. In fact, you can search for insurance for a new vehicle in a few minutes using online comparison sites.

This enables you to get a no-obligation quote, which means no surprises when it comes to protecting your new car once you’ve paid the deposit and arranged the finance.

Buying a used car? Check out Sun Motors and find your next vehicle today. Whether you’re looking for automatic, manual or electric, use Sun Motors to decide on your next model.

If you’re on the hunt for the best pillow, we’ve tried and tested a whole horde to suit a variety of sleep styles and requirements.

From cooling, to firm support, made from the most luxurious materials, to the best pillows for side sleepers – no pillow is the same and we find out why below.

I’m at that stage in my life where getting a good nights kip is high up on my list of priorities, and many sleep experts praise the importance of it on your overall health. 

While mattresses usually get the spotlight – we know this because we also tried and tested a whole best mattress review – pillows shouldn’t be something you overlook either.

Since testing the best pillows on the market, my whole perspective has changed and the importance of a good quality pillow is not lost on me.

However, does paying more guarantee better sleep? Do budget-friendly pillows give premium priced pillows a run for their money? And as a self-professed wriggler in my sleep, can a single pillow offer enough support? Find out below. 

How we tested?

The Sun Shopping team tried and tested a variety of pillows – getting down to the nitty gritty to decide if the comfort and performance of pillows from popular retailers is worth the investment.

Each pillow was evaluated against its marketing claims, such as whether it suits side sleepers or provides proper head and neck support during sleep.

The team considered various price points to determine if cost reflected quality, ensuring options catered to different budgets.

Factors like material, firmness, and overall value were considered to provide a well-rounded review.

We wanted to identify if each pillow delivers on their promises, offering shoppers a reliable recommendations tailored to individual sleep needs and preferences.

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Best pillows at a glance:

• Best pillow overall – Panda Memory Foam Bamboo pillow
• Best luxury pillow – Simba Hybrid Firm pillow
• Best priced pillow – Silentnight Copper infused pillow
• Best pillow for side sleepers – Panda Hybrid Bamboo pillow
• Best pregnancy pillow – Simba cooling body pillow
• Best cooling pillow – Simba Stratos pillow
• Best silk pillow – Opera Premium Lightweight Silk pillow
• Best pain relief pillow – Groove pain relief pillow
• Best adjustable pillow – Simba Hybrid Firm pillow
• Best washable pillow – Emma Premium Foam pillow
• Best pillow for support – Silentnight Geltex Premier pillow
• Best hypoallergenic pillow – Floks Wool pillow/Terry’s Simply Sleep Anti-Allergy Microfibre Pillow
• Best Down pillow – Tielle Savoy Duck Feather and Down pillow
• Best value for money – George Duck Feather Pillows (pack of 2)

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1. Simba Hybrid Firm Pillow

Kiya-Ellen Rose

Simba Hybrid Firm Pillow, £159

Pros:  Customisable firmness, luxurious to sleep on, supportive

Cons: Expensive!

Rating: 8.5 / 10

As a self-professed wriggler in my sleep: I didn’t realise how important a firm pillow is until I tried this Simba Hybrid Firm Pillow.

Even though it has a hefty price tag, I genuinely couldn’t fault it.

Admittedly, I didn’t know I was a firm pillow fan – which now explains my previous need to have 3 or 4 crappy pillows on top of each other to feel supported. 

Testing it for a week, I was sceptical to only use a single pillow, but a night in and I was converted.

Firm yet adjustable, its three removable layers allowed me to customise the height and firmness of the pillow – I chose to keep it packed with Simba’s sleep tech which felt perfect to me.

The Stratos cool-touch layer is beyond luxurious to sleep on, and the Aerocoil micro-springs provided delicious support – whether I was on my back, side, or stomach.

It has definitely replaced my usual ‘princess-and-the-pea’ setup of multiple subpar pillows.

Admittedly, the £159 price tag is eye-watering, but if my girl math is correct, it works out at just 29p a night for a year – which feels more justifiable.

Plus, the pillow’s sustainable packaging and luxurious storage bag are nice touches and the novelty was not lost on me.

While I docked half a point for the cost, it’s a worthwhile investment for serious sleep improvement.

If you can afford it, I’d struggle to find fault this Simba Hybrid Firm Pillow but are all Simba pillows worth the investment?

I tested and wrote a Simba Hybrid Pillow review to see if its worth its £109 price tag.

2. Panda Memory Foam Bamboo Pillow

Panda Memory Foam Bamboo Pillow, £44.95

Pros:  Luxurious, improved the quality of my sleep, next-level comfort, cute Panda branding

Cons: Genuinely couldn’t find one!

Rating: 9 / 10

I loved it so much I’ve not taken it off my bed!

I am not a pillow expert, but we all spend hours in the sack and know a good pillow when we try one – this pillow is incredibly comfortable and I love it.

The Panda Hybrid Pillow is Orthopaedic grade, has bamboo charcoal-infused memory foam (not that I could tell what this would look like) and has been designed with sleep tech to regulate your body temperature while in the land of nod.

Spunky marketing lingo aside; since sleeping on this pillow I haven’t woken up during the night feeling unsupported or uncomfortable and whether I am sleeping on my back, side or front, this pillow provided ample support.

It has made a considerable difference to the quality of my sleep and I genuinely wake each morning feeling ready to start the day, having had good quality rest.

With the cute Panda logo embellishing the pillow, considerate and well-designed packaging – I really would say this is worth the cash.

3. Silentnight Copper Infused Pillow

Silentnight Copper Infused Pillow, £24 £18

Pros:  Price point, novelty, comfortable to sleep on, proposed health benefits

Cons: Very squishy – might not be suitable for those that want ample support

Rating: 7.5 / 10

I didn’t try this pillow long enough to honestly comment on its positive health benefits advertised, but overall it was a lovely pillow to sleep on and I really liked the novelty of it.

Copper infused pillows is new territory for me, but apparently the copper is naturally anti-bacterial and can help prevent skin breakouts.

I no longer suffer in this department, but it did feel breathable and luxurious to sleep on.

Features I really like about this pillow is its UK made, its completely machine washable and if you’re not happy with it, Silentnight offers a 2 year manufacturer’s peace of mind guarantee.

Silentnight deliver on an affordable price points, overall comfort and an extensive product line to cater for a wide range of sleepers and I would recommend this pillow for those reasons alone.

4. Silentnight Geltex Premier Pillow

Silentnight Geltex Premier Pillow, £40 £32

Pros: Price point, quality

Cons: Really uncomfortable – too firm!

Rating: 5 / 10

Look don’t shoot the messenger – but I didn’t enjoy sleeping on this pillow.

Having discovered I am a firm pillow girly, I was looking forward to trying this pillow – especially as the price point was more inline with the amount of cash I would ordinarily drop on a pillow.

But I lasted one night on it.

The Silentnight Geltex Premier Pillow is advertised as being ideal for back/side sleepers, because it has a reactive geltex inner lining but it just felt too rigid.

Difficult to say, but this could maybe ease with extended use, but I wasn’t willing to commit to that because it disrupted my much needed sleep.

After waking in the middle of the night in discomfort – which is something I hadn’t experienced with the other pillows tested – I slung this one onto the floor and went back to sleep.

Silentnight is a great brand – and I was gutted to not like this pillow.

I had high hopes because unzipping its storage bag (a touch not lost on me) and giving the pillow quick try before popping it in a pillowcase, all got my seal of approval.

However, the proof is in the pudding and as a mover and groover in my sleep, this didn’t offer me the comfort I would want.

But, its firmness could be considered supportive – which may be beneficial if you are after something firmer.

If you’re not a sleep wriggler and love really, really firm pillows for a fair price point, don’t write off considering it as this could be the pillow for you.

5. Feather and Black

Lucy Gornall

Feather and Black Soft as Down Deluxe Pillow Pair, £59

Pros: High thread count cover, really does feel like down, come as a pair

Cons: I cannot think of one! 

Rating: 8.5 / 10

Want down, but without the down? Well, this Feather and Black offering could be the one for you. And as I lay my head on the pillow, it literally melted into the fake down filling, which really does feel like the real thing.

This pillow is filled with synthetic fillings that feel like natural fillings, so it’s great for allergy sufferers who might not cope well with animal-based pillow fillings.

Feather and Black says that the super-soft microfibre fillings are ‘wonderfully cushioning, with a medium comfort grade to ensure your neck and shoulders are well-supported’. 

Yes, they are cushioned wonderfully. They feel quite luxurious, a bit like hotel-style pillows. 

Oh, and another bonus is that the cover is a pure cotton 233 thread count cover. 

I love the fact that these pillows come as a pair; it just makes more sense, and it seems cheaper too. 

6. George Duck Feather Pillows (pack of 2)

George Home Luxury Duck Feather Pillow 2-Pack, £25

Pros: Luxury, at a great price, comes as a pair, super soft and comfy

Cons: Might be too flat for some, not good for those with allergies

Rating: 6.5 / 10

OK, now we’re talking. These George Home pillows are affordable luxury with their duck feather filling and super soft cotton covers. 

My head sank into these and I really did feel comfortable and at ease. 

I love the fact that these aren’t overly thick – I like flatter pillows and these George Duck feather pillows are flatter than many of the others I have tried.

Although you can feel the duck feathers inside, it’s not too bad and with a pillow cover on so you’d never know about the feathers. George says these are made for back sleepers, which may explain why I was so comfortable resting on them, as a side sleeper myself. 

Also, there really is no arguing that the price of these pillows is brilliant especially as you get a two-pack. This might just prove that you don’t need to spend a total fortune on duck feather-filled pillows.

7. Panda Hybrid Bamboo Pillow

Panda Hybrid Bamboo Pillow, £89.95

Pros: Large, good height, soft but supportive,  removable and washable cover, 10-year guarantee

Cons: Expensive

Rating: 8 / 10

I love that this pillow seems so big – lots of space for moving around in my sleep – yet it’s the same size as my other pillows!

It’s soft to the touch and cool on my face, which has been lovely during the recent warm spell.

It’s made from a bamboo charcoal-infused memory foam core and a quilted hypoallergenic bamboo cover, which is removable for washing.

The foam is not solid, but incorporates holes to help dissipate the heat that builds up while you sleep and together with the mesh sections of the bamboo cover, help the air to circulate.

Whenever I’ve used memory foam pillows in the past, I’ve found them too hard and too high.

This one is more structured than my regular pillows, but it’s not so high it makes my neck ache.

It’s also soft – in a memory foam kind of way – and is comfortable whether I’m sleeping on my side or my back.  

However, I would say it does take a bit of getting used to if like me, you’re used to squishy, synthetic pillows bought from the local supermarket.

It took a good one to two weeks for me to get used to it and even now at times I still swap it out during the night for a flatter alternative.

It’s good to know though that while I’m sleeping on it my spine and neck are in alignment and properly supported.

I think it’s because of that – and because of the Panda mattress I’ve been testing – that I’ve suffered from fewer aches and pains on getting up in the morning recently.

This pillow is pricey, but at the same time, it comes with a 10-year guarantee.

I have no doubt it will last ages and when I think about how much money I’ve spent on cheap pillows over the years, I’m not convinced it won’t actually work out to be less expensive.  

Review by Lisa Burn

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READ MORE:

• Best mattress
• Best mattress for back pain
• Simba Hybrid Pillow review
• Simber slippers review

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8. Emma Premium Foam Pillow

Emma Premium Foam Pillow, £75 £63.75

Pros: Removable and washable moisture-resistant cover, layers can be removed and changed to suit you 

Cons: Very expensive! 

Rating: 7 / 10

So the original price of this pillow is actually eye-watering.

But, in the sale, I guess it’s just about acceptable, but of course it depends on your budget. 

Equally, my dad always used to tell me that it’s best to spend good money on your shoes and your bed because you’re always in one or the other! 

Anyway, this pillow certainly lives up to its premium name as it’s temperature regulating, is filled with removable layers, and stays fresh and clean.

The removable layers essentially mean you can adjust the pillow to suit you. 

I won’t lie, I did love this pillow.

Emma says that it’s best to keep all three of the layers for side sleepers, two to three layers for back sleepers, and just one layer for stomach sleepers.

A word on the layers: 

There’s a foam layer that regulates temperature.

I’d say this was great for women who are struggling with menopausal or general hormonal night sweats.

There’s a layer that gives extra support thanks to HRX (high Resiliency Extra) Foam.

Then there’s the softest foam later which Emma says is ‘comfortable and breathable’. These layers were easy to remove and replace. 

I like that the knitted white fabric of the pillow is nice and breathable. There’s nothing worse than a hot, sweaty sleep. 

There’s also some serious memory foam action here – I felt so supported on my side, with all three of the layers.

Because of the memory foam though, you may find this pillow a little harder than others, so whether you enjoy the pillow or not is really down to personal preference. 

9. Simba Stratos Pillow

Simba Stratos Pillow, £60

Pros: Award-winning sleep tech, hypoallergenic, fair price point

Cons: None

Rating: 7 / 10

Simba’s Stratos pillow does feel like a premium pillow and definitely could pass for one made from down.

This pillow is stuffed with Simba’s Renew Bio filling which is a fancy-named breathable fibre that helps to regulate your body temperature while you’re busy catching Zzz’s.

It’s also anti-allergenic, which could be good a good choice for those who suffer from allergies caused by fillings of animal-origin.

Admittedly, I don’t suffer from any allergies but having slept on this pillow for a week, I can vouch that you do wake feeling fresh and it is like sleeping on a cloud.

I also liked that despite its fabrication, it doesn’t smell plasticky either.

I reckon long term I would need to add another pillow, as this doesn’t offer a huge amount of support and as a side sleeper, I found myself actively replumping to give me a good height – something important to consider.

A novelty that isn’t lost on me – the Simba Stratos Pillow has a convenient removable cover that can be slung in the wash after extended periods of use.

Its a proper nice pillow – but would I pay 60 quid for it? Probably not because there are some great cheaper alternatives included in this article.

10. Tielle Savoy Duck Feather and Down Pillow

Lucy Gornall

Tielle The original Standard, £64

Pros: Used by 5-star hotels, super soft, feel really crisp

Cons: Sold individually 

Rating: 7 / 10

Hotel pillows rock. So for a taste of hotel life at home, you need to get your hands on this pillow which is made with a blend of 70% duck feather and 30% duck down. These pillows are used by some of the swankiest hotels including Claridge’s and The Pig Hotels.

I was warned that as this is a natural product, it may have a slight odour, so 48 hours of airing was recommended. I didn’t notice an odour however. What I did notice was how crisp and clean these felt; yes, I can definitely sense that hotel vibe from these pillows. 

I like the fact that the cover is Dust Mite Proof with a 230 Thread Count; it really does feel luxurious. 

The pillows come in white cotton tie bags (again, useful bags for storage!), and the pillows themselves are just the right level of firmness. You can’t really feel the feathers inside which is great, and the cover is super soft. 

The only pitfall is that yet again, they’re sold individually, so expect to pay double for a pair. 

11. Floks Wool Pillow

Lucy Gornall

Floks Wool Pillow, £65

Pros: Hypoallergenic, comes in a great big canvas bag, designed and made in the UK 

Cons: Comes as a single 

Rating: 7 / 10

I opted for the regular size of this pillow in soft. FYI: There’s a choice of soft or medium. 

It’s hypoallergenic (ideal for anyone who suffers from asthma and allergies) and temperature-regulating (great if you’re a hot sleeper) according to Floks. Plus, it’s made from soft British wool and organic cotton whilst also being designed, manufactured and finished in the UK, so not only is it comfy but it’s 100% sustainable too.

The pillow is super soft and when I lay down, my head slowly sunk down. It’s pretty blissful, to be honest, plus the pillow is nice and cooling. However, for £60, I should hope it’s incredibly comfy! 

The bag that this pillow comes in is one of the highlights of the overall thing; it’s a huge canvas-style bag with a pull cord and straps. It’s such a handy bag for storing this and that – I am super impressed. 

12. Groove Pain Relief Pillow

lucy gornall

Groove Pain Relief Pillow, £29.95

Pros: Great for anyone suffering from neck and shoulder pain, super support for the spine, ergonomic dips

Cons: Very different to a regular pillow so might not fit so well on your bed 

Rating: 8 / 10

The Groove memory foam pillow came rolled up in a plastic wrapper, inside a small box, which I liked as there was minimal packaging.

Upon opening the pillow, I didn’t really understand what the hype was; it just looked like a rectangular, memory foam pillow. 

But then I lay down on it and oh wow.

Firstly I lay on my back. The special groove for the head meant that my neck, head and spine were totally aligned.

It actually felt really comfortable straight away. I also tried lying on my side.

For side sleepers, the slightly raised sides of the pillow have small grooves underneath for shoulders, again meaning that the entire spine is aligned.

Groove says that not only does this pillow help with posture thanks to the well placed ergonomic dips, but it also helps to reduce headaches and shoulder pain by properly supporting your spine.

Groove Pillow also does a 100-night free trial, so if it doesn’t work for you, simply return it and get your money back. 

I’m a big fan of this, however, my only bugbear is that it doesn’t look like other pillows…so when it’s sitting on my bed, it does look out of place.

But, I guess I would rather have a good night’s sleep and a pain-free back then a bed of perfectly proportioned pillows.

This pillow is also well-priced I reckon, considering how good it is.

13. Opera Premium Lightweight Silk Pillow

Lucy Gornall

Opera Beds Premium Lightweight Silk Pillow, £102

Pros: Silk is kinder on skin and hair, super soft, silver piping around the edge 

Cons: Very expensive for one 

Rating: 9 / 10

If it’s luxury you’re after, then I’d recommend this one.

I love silk pillowcases; ever since I heard that they’re kinder to your facial skin and hair, I’ve enveloped my pillows in silk cases.

Yes, they undoubtedly cost more, but honestly, they do feel different when you’re sinking into a deep sleep. 

And, as someone who sweats in the night, I will do anything to ensure my facial skin doesn’t feel clammy. 

Opera Beds says this pillow is thermo-regulating and made with lightweight Mulberry silk.

Sensitive skin?

This might be a good option as this pillow is naturally hypoallergenic and moisture-absorbent.

I like how my head sank into the pillow, to the point where I was pretty flat against the bed, and my spine felt super aligned.

This is important for posture and to avoid that awful pain you get after sleeping in a weird position.

The only thing that really stops this from being a full 10 out 10 is the price… it’s very expensive and you only get one in a pack which is slightly annoying. 

14. Simba Body Pillow

Simba Body Pillow, £109

Pros: Good for pregnancy and nursing, washable cover

Cons: High price point, takes up a lot of space on the bed

Rating: 4 / 5

I’ve been a Simba fan for a while, ever since I invested in one of their memory foam mattresses and realised what true comfort was. 

This long, slightly curved body pillow is often seen on the bed of pregnant women who need the extra support; however, side sleepers can also benefit from this. Simba says this pillow has been designed to provide ‘comfortable hip and spinal alignment’, as well as offering great back support if you sit up in bed. 

It’s also got a removable, washable cover which contains Stratos cool-touch technology, AKA, tech that stops you overheating. In fact, I could definitely feel the cool touch on one side of this pillow. 

And, the down-like clusters within the pillow of Simba Renew Bio fibres are breathable, and so cushioned. 

Simba says that to use this pillow, it’s best to hug it with your arms and arrange your legs around the bottom with one leg on top, knee slightly bent, and the other underneath and a little straighter. I got into position and really felt full support from this pillow. It’s super soft to hold and very comfortable. The only real problem with one of these pillows is where to store it!

15. Terry’s Classic Duck Feather Pillows

Terry’s Classic Duck Feather pillows, £119.95

Pros: Come as a pair, super soft, just the right height off the mattress 

Cons: Expensive, you might feel the feathers, not ideal for allergy sufferers 

Rating: 6 / 10

OK, so if you want some real fancy-pants pillows, then these duck feather-filled pillows might be your best bet. 

These come as a pair, which is something I really rate, especially for the cost. I’d be pretty peeved to pay this much for one pillow!

They also come in a lovely zip bag, useful for storage.

I noticed straight away that the pillows themselves are very soft and my head really did sink down into them.

They’re also not too ‘big’, so my head wasn’t raised too high off the mattress when I lay down.

I find that having my head too lifted can lead to neck pain.

Plus, these pillows aren’t too firm either, which I like, and they have just the right amount of plumpness about them.

However, in saying this, I think I prefer the pillows filled with down as you can feel the feathers inside this pillow which gets a little off-putting.

However, I am incredibly sensitive to everything so this might just be me. 

This pillow set also includes a high 233 thread count; it’s like a little bit of bedtime luxury. 

16. Terry’s Simply Sleep Anti-Allergy Microfibre Pillow

Terry’s Simply Sleep Anti-Allergy Microfibre Pillow, £89.95 £56.62

Pros: Comes in handy zip bag with handles, great for allergy sufferers

Cons: Comes a single, not a pair, expensive

Rating: 7 / 10

Another ‘just like down’ pillow, that mimics a down filling, and in my opinion, does a great job at it. Although I should hope so as the price of this single pillow made my eyes water slightly. 

Anyway, the fake down means that allergy sufferers can sleep peacefully but also have the same level of comfort as those sleeping on a real down pillow. 

Terry’s says that the filling fibres have also been coated with an antibacterial coating, making this even more comfortable for those with allergies. 

As I lay my head on this pillow I really did feel like I could fall asleep. Honestly, it is incredibly soft; my head sunk down but my head and neck also felt supported. I got that feeling you get after a long day at work, where you melt into bed and just drift off into a deep slumber.

This pillow maintains its quality feel with a 233 thread count and a piped case, which Terry’s rightly describes as ‘ultimate elegance’.

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Best pillow for side sleepers

“This position is at risk of spine misalignment and pain without the right support,” says Theresa. She recommends a pillow created from firm material to avoid sinking into the pillow. 

“You need a firm and tall pillow, as thick as the distance between your shoulder and ear so that your head, neck and spine are all held in the proper alignment.”

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Best pillow for front sleepers

Rarely sleeping on my front this was news to me, but front sleepers may not even need a pillow, says Theresa Schnorbach the sleep expert for sleep brand Emma.

“Anything too high will cause neck straining and extra pressure on the lower back and abdomen.”

She recommends a very soft pillow – or to try a pillow under the stomach and pelvis instead of under your head.

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Best pillow for back sleepers

Theresa, Emma Sleep Expert reveals: “Back sleepers need a pillow of medium height and softness.”

She goes on to suggest that back sleepers could benefit Memory foam pillows.

A great choice because the material conforms to the pressure of your neck and shoulders.

Memory foam is great for supporting your neck and shoulders so you don’t wake up with tight or knotted shoulders. Lovely jubbly!

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How to wash pillows

Keeping your pillows clean is essential for maintaining a fresh and hygienic sleeping environment.

Why not consider choosing a brand that offers pillows with removable, washable covers or clearly states that their products are designed to be washed?

Keeping your pillows fresh does prolong the lifespan of them which is a plus if you’re forking out for a premium one.

I would recommend heading over to the manufacturers product F&Qs to see how best to wash your pillow because not all pillows are designed the same and each brand has different rules.

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How often should you replace pillows?

I am not a sleep expert, but online advice suggests looking out for physical signs such as discolouration, odour, rips and limp stuffing.

Another consideration is whether you wake feeling unsupported and uncomfortable.

“Your pillow helps to align your spine as you sleep which is why a bad one can cause neck pain and tightness elsewhere in the body,” explains Theresa.

If your current pillow isn’t helping you drift off into the land of nod for a full 8-hours, then it might be time to buy a new pillow.

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How to pick the best pillow for you?

“From cotton to latex, pillows can be made of various materials, however, some of the best known are probably down, feather, microfibre and memory foam,” says Theresa Schnorbach is the sleep expert at The Sleep Company, Emma.

“Down pillows are filled with the soft fibres close to the skin of birds such as geese, ducks or swans. Similarly, feather pillows use feathers from the wings and backs of ducks and geese as filling.”

Theresa adds that due to their animal origin, these types of pillows might not be right for everyone.

“Vegans, for example, may prefer another choice and for some, these types of pillows could potentially cause allergic reactions.”

“There are synthetic alternatives to down, such as microfibre pillows, which offer the same level of comfort but can also be machine-washable. Memory foam is another popular choice thanks to its cushiony support.”

We would recommend doing your research before buying and would advise against buying because of a deal.

It is important to consider how you sleep, your budget and what the pillow is made from.

TRINITY College wants its students to use AI and Gen AI to write their essays for them – as long as they don’t try to pass it off as their own.

University chiefs keen to mould the workforce of the very near future have issued AI guidelines after admitting is is “impossible to ban their use”.

It means students can use the likes of Chat GPT to generate text and words in their projects with the college’s blessing once they credit the machines for it.

As a result, work counting for a sizeable portion of a person’s final grade can lean heavily on the output of machine learning.

A source said: “It’s the future, a future where people don’t have to use their brains as much.”

A college statement on AI and Gen AI reads: “Where the output of GenAI is used in a document or work output, this usage should be acknowledged and appropriately cited.

“Where GenAI content is used verbatim (e.g., in the form of unedited text or image), this should be accompanied by a full citation, with text-based content included in quotation marks.”

However it’s not a free-for-all, as anyone seen to be overdoing it might be seen in a poor light.

It tells students: “Note any long verbatim quotation (eg more than one paragraph), even with citation, may be considered inappropriate or poor practice in student assessment documents and publications.”

They could also be done for plagiarism if passing it off without due credit.

In its advice to staff it says: “GenAI will be used by students, researchers and staff. Given the ubiquity of GenAI tools within everyday devices and platforms, it is impossible to ban their use.

“From an academic integrity perspective, if a student generates content from a GenAI tool and submits it as his/her/their own work, it is considered plagiarism, which is defined as academic misconduct.

“If a sentence or quotation from GenAI content is used by a student in their academic work, it must be referenced.”

A spokesperson for Trinity College said the new appreoach is not a blanket go-ahead for students to use AI as there are new guidelines and caveats.

Trinity College’s new AI policy requires students and staff to fact check information generated by Gen AI and to seek out the primary source of the information – such as research papers or publications.

The College also highlights that any student that generates content from an AI tool and submits it as his or her work, it will be considered plagarism.

Getty - Contributor

MANCHESTER UNITED are the Premier League’s worst spenders – and the club have absolutely nothing to show for it.

In fact, United’s horrendous recruitment decisions are one of the main reasons that the club—who sit 15th in the Prem—is going through their worst period since the 1973-74 relegation campaign.

Reuters

Ruben Amorim has inherited an expensively poor squad[/caption]

To make matters worse, the Red Devils have spent FOUR TIMES more than Prem leaders Liverpool – who are running away with the title.

United’s hierarchy, both before and after Ineos came on board a year ago, have spent recklessly and without direction.

Put into numbers, United have spent, since 2019, a net amount of £810m – compared to Liverpool’s £212m.

But Arne Slot‘s team sit a staggering 31 POINTS above Ruben Amorim‘s side after the latter’s 1-0 defeat to Spurs on Sunday.

Old Trafford chiefs meanwhile can boast one Carabao Cup and one FA Cup, but a closer look will tell you those successes covered for some dire Prem campaigns – including a record low of eighth last season.

The once-feared Manchester outfit have actually spent more than £1 billion since 2019, with only £285m raised in departures.

That period has seen several different managers take the helm and includes some of the worst transfer business ever.

Antony was signed for a whopping £82m in 2022 and has been shipped out on loan to Real Betis this January – where he’s flying at the moment.

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Jadon Sancho was a £72m capture from Borussia Dortmund in 2021, but will permanently join Chelsea this summer for around £25m having massively underwhelmed in M16.

United made Harry Maguire the most expensive centre-half in the world whilst Erik ten Hag spent a combined £140m to sign Casemiro and Rasmus Hojlund in successive summers.

Ten Hag pushed to splash millions on former Ajax players and even handed over £60m to Chelsea for Mason Mount, whose injury record has seen him play just 32 games for United since June 2023.

Amorim’s main signing in January was the £29m dropped on left-back Patrick Dorgu – adding to the £200m spent in the summer on the likes of Joshua Zirkzee, Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt, Noussair Mazraoui and Manuel Ugarte. 

And fans could perhaps better stomach this sad reality if it wasn’t for the fact that none of these players are exactly world-beaters.

Eyebrows were raised on Sunday when Amorim was forced to name eight untried teenagers on the bench in United’s latest defeat to Spurs, despite all the money spent.

The truth is, the net spend is the worst in the league because United are struggling to flog players.

Ironically, the money banked for Mason Greenwood (£26.6m) and Scott McTominay (£25m) in the summer are among the biggest United sales of all time.

Gary Neville previously declared Old Trafford a “graveyard” for players with so many of their big name signings failing to deliver while others have been moved on for huge losses.

The fact is, fans are fearing relegation this season or the next as the club break a new embarrassing record each week.

While Chelsea are the biggest Prem spenders, they are also the biggest Prem sellers, racking up £863m in player exits.

Some of these outgoings include £88m (Eden Hazard to Real Madrid), £65m (Havertz to Arsenal) and £60m (Mount to United).

So while, the Blues have spent 1.60bn, their net spend works out as £739m.

Tottenham’s record is the third ‘worst’, with a net spend of £576m as anger continues to be directed at chairman Daniel Levy. 

That takes into consideration £884m spent on new signings and £308m in sales, but Spurs have gone trophy-less for 17 years.

Fans will also look back on the club-record fee received for Harry Kane and wonder how it was, once again, so poorly invested.

Ange Postecoglou‘s lack of squad depth is currently front and centre as the lack of quality beyond the starting XI is evident as they’re working towards solving a hefty injury list.

Spurs’ rivals and title challengers Arsenal are fourth on the ‘worst spent’ list, with £563m in the red.

David Raya (£27m), Riccardo Calafiori (£42m), and Mikel Merino (£31m) were the major arrivals but Emile Smith Rowe (£27m), Aaron Ramsdale (£18m) and Eddie Nketiah (£25m) all departed. 

Arsenal have not been afraid to spend big, splashing out £60m on Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and £72m on Nicolas Pepe before the arrivals of £65m Kai Havertz and £105m Declan Rice. 

Newcastle, West Ham and Newcastle make up fifth through to seventh respectively.

Seven-time champions Manchester City being down in ninth on the list would be a surprise to some.

In total, the Etihad giants are third for outlays on around £986m.

Omar Marmoush’s arrival is fourth in their all-time list, just behind Ruben Dias and then a way off Josko Gvardiol (£77m) and record-signing Jack Grealish who cost £100m.

As with Chelsea, though, City fetch huge sales for selling off a wave of youngsters good enough for many teams but just not quite at Pep Guardiola’s required elite level. 

The Julian Alvarez deal could rise to £81.5m while the money for Taylor Harwood-Bellis (£20m), Liam Delap (£15m), Sergio Gomez (£8.4m) and Tommy Doyle (£4.3m) racks up.

After Alvarez, City’s other biggest sales in the period are Raheem Sterling, Ferran Torres, Gabriel Jesus, Leroy Sane and Cole Palmer (all between £47.5m and £40m). 

Nottingham Forest even crept above City on the spending chart because their net spend is marginally higher.

Last summer, Forest went all out with their signings in an effort to ensure that they remained in the top-flight at the first time of asking, bringing in dozens of new players. 

Sales have been much harder to come by though, with their most notable departure being that of Matty Cash to Aston Villa in 2020.

But it’s paid off as Nuno Espirito Santo’s side are enjoying a breakthrough season as the club sit third in the table.

Lastly, Liverpool’s brilliantly astute and clever recruitment practices speak for themselves.

Perhaps it is no surprise to see Liverpool with the best net spend of the ‘Big Six’ on a mere £282m over the past nine seasons. 

In fact, the Reds have actually made a profit in the 2024-25 campaign by only buying Federico Chiesa for £10m and raising £50m in sales from Fabio Carvalho (£20m), Sepp van den Berg (£20m) and Bobby Clark (£10m). 

It continued a wise – and successful – transfer strategy that has seen Liverpool sell big and then wait to find the right players at the right time for the right price. 

SUN Racing’s Tuesday tips are below.

Back a horse by clicking their odds.

LONGSHOT

SOI DAO (8.00 Wolverhampton)

She has won over this course and distance off this mark and looks a big price on this all-weather comeback.

THIEF

DUFFRY TRIXS (3.05 Taunton)

He showed promise when second on his hurdles debut at Plumpton last time and has more to come.

BLUE FORCE ONE (5.30 Wolverhampton) 

He showed promise on his all-weather handicap debut at Lingfield.

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Commercial content notice: Taking one of the offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. You should be aware brands pay fees to appear in the highest placements on the page. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org.

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Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

• Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
• Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
• Never chases their losses
• Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
• Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
• Gamble Aware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

Good news, Sonic fans: Sonic the Hedgehog 3 will soon be available to stream at home. Keep scrolling to find out how to watch the franchise’s third film online. Where to Watch Sonic the Hedgehog 3 Online: Paramount Plus Sonic the Hedgehog 3 will begin streaming on Paramount Plus on Tuesday, Feb. 18. If you […]

FREE cash is up for grabs for both new and existing customers by making one simple switch.

The £175 could be banked by anyone willing to switch their current account but they will need to be quick as the offer ends in just weeks.

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Lloyds Bank is offering new customers £175 in free cash[/caption]

Lloyds Bank is offering the cash to punters who switch from another bank to a Club Lloyds account.

If they do so from tomorrow until April 1, they can scoop the cash which will be wired to your account within 72 hours.

As well as the cash, new customers will also benefit from a handful of other welcome perks.

These include a 12-month subscription to Disney+, or a choice of six Vue or Odeon cinema tickets, a magazine subscription, or a digital Coffee Club and Gourmet Society membership.

The former would otherwise set customers back £60 a year.

Meanwhile, cinema stubs can be expensive too, with movie fans forking out between £5.99 and £13.99 depending on the ticket and location.

There is also the possibility of earning up to £90 in credit interest each year.

Lloyds pays 1.5 per cent on anything up to £4,000 and then pays 3 per cent on balances between £4,000 and £5,000.

At the moment there’s a monthly fee of £3, but this is waived if you deposit £2,000 or more into the account each month.

However, from June 2, this fee will rise to £5 per month, potentially adding up to £24 more per year for those who do not meet the £2,000 monthly deposit requirement.

“Customers can also take advantage of Everyday Offers, providing cashback when shopping at select retailers and it’s easy to sign up to Save the Change when using a debit card,” the bank said. 

“The service works by rounding the spend to the nearest pound and transferring the change to a nominated savings account.

“The Lloyds app also makes everyday banking on the go easy – customers can access a range of features including card controls, subscription management and checking credit health, with the app using the latest tech to keep customers and their money safe.”

Andrew Hagger, a personal finance expert at Moneycomms added: “On the face of it, the list of benefits looks impressive.

“As long as you meet the £2,000 monthly income criteria to avoid the £5 monthly fee, then it looks a decent deal. 

“The Club Lloyds Platinum and Club Lloyds Silver are packaged bank accounts and come with monthly fees of £22.50 and £11.50 respectively – just make sure you’ll make good use of the benefits on offer with these accounts otherwise it may not work out good value.

“If you’re someone who goes overdrawn from time to time you may be better off looking at First Direct – also offering £175 switch incentive and 7 per cent regular saver.  

“With First Direct the first £250 in overdraft is interest free whereas Lloyds charges up to 49.9 per cent depending on your credit record.”

Banks often offer incentives to attract new customers, usually in the form of a cash bonus.

And it’s not the only one offering a bonus right now.

First Direct is also offering a £175 welcome bonus to new customers for example.

Nationwide has a £175 offer and TSB is giving out £100.

Santander was offering £150, but that has now ended.

Deals like this come and go regularly so its worth moving quickly if you think it’s for you, as they can be pulled at any time.

 

A GOLFER missed out on a $4million winner’s prize by just one shot – after flying himself to the tournament.

Maverick McNealy, 29, produced a thrilling performance in the final round of the Genesis Invitational at Torrey Pines.

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Maverick McNealy came within a shot of winning the Genesis Invitational[/caption]

Instagram

The PGA golfer is also a qualified pilot and flew himself to the tournament[/caption]

Reuters

Ludvig Aberg birdied the last to clinch the trophy[/caption]

He shot a superb eight-under-par 64 to finish on -11 – going eight under through the first 11 holes.

But the American was pipped by Swedish sensation Ludvig Aberg who birdied four of the final six holes including the 18th to snatch the prestigious title by one shot.

And Aberg was handed over the trophy by none other than host Tiger Woods.

As for McNealy, though, he had to settle for second and a mere $2.2m [£1.75m].

But in the grand scheme of things, that is a fraction of the $1billion fortune he will inherit.

McNealy’s dad Scott co-founded tech firm Sun Microsystems and sold the company to Oracle in 2010 for $7.4bn [£5.9m].

It means Maverick and his three brothers – all named after American cars – are all set to become billionaires.

And it is thought that may well make McNealy the richest golfer in the world.

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His epic fortune places him above legends such as Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Rory Mcllroy and Phil Mickelson on the golfing rich list.

But former world No1 amateur McNealy is certainly making a name for himself and boosting his bank balance on the golf course with £12m in career earnings.

But as well as his management science and engineering degree, custom-made irons and rise to 14th in the world rankings, McNealy is a qualified pilot.

The Californian, who has one PGA Tour win at the RSM Classic in November, secured his license in 2023 at the age of 27 – the same year he married wife Maya.

And he even flew his own private plane to Torrey Pines for the Genesis Invitational.

Speaking about his unique arrival to the famous course, McNealy told Golfweek: “It was a really fun way to get here. Kind of unique for me on the PGA Tour.

“I’m going to use it a ton to get to La Quinta for better weather practice and up north to Tahoe in the summer when it gets too hot in Las Vegas.”

On his narrow miss behind Aberg at Torrey Pines, he added: “It [second] is more than I could have asked for to start the day.

“It was one of those things where I got on a roll early and there were some gettable flags.

“When you get on a roll you just don’t want to get off it and I tried to keep it going as long as possible.

“I had a few poor shots and an unlucky break or two at the end but definitely had a few things go my way early in this round and it was just a ton of fun to be up there, to have a chance.

“Ludvig played awesome.”

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McNealy was eight under through 11 holes on Sunday[/caption]

Instagram

He secured his pilot license and married Maya in 2023[/caption]

A DRIVING pro has revealed a 20p hack to banish mould from your car in the damp winter months.

The pro revealed this unlikely pet product acts as a dehumidifier.

Getty Images

Getty Images

Drivers wanting to prevent the mould from forming in the first place should consider this hack, Darren Miller, from the vehicle buying service BigWantsYourCar.com, suggests.

The trick is to place a full sock of cat litter on the car windscreen and allow it to soak up the moisture in the air.

By soaking up the moisture it will prevent mould from forming as once it appears, it can be difficult to get rid of.

Cat litter can be bought from Amazon for as little as £3.19 for a 4L bag.

Add a small scoop to a sock and it could cost you just 20p.

AIR CONDITIONING

Darren also recommends regularly running the air conditioning system to prevent mould.

He explained: “Effective use of your vehicle’s heating and air conditioning systems is a strategic approach to controlling interior moisture levels.

“These systems are not merely for comfort; they are important for maintaining a dry and mould-free environment.”

For those already experiencing minor instances of mould using cleaning cloths can be surprisingly effective.

So long as the driver and/or passengers can face the winter chill outside.

AVOID EATING AND DRINKING

Another hack the driving pro revealed is to minimise eating and drinking in your car.

He said: “Minimising eating and drinking inside vehicles significantly reduces the likelihood of mould.

“Even minor spills and crumbs can create an environment for mould growth.

“This is because organic materials and liquids provide the perfect breeding ground for mould. In the event of spills, immediate cleanup is important.”

WATER DAMAGE

Another issue, repeatedly overlooked is dealing with water damage quickly.

The key problem area is he scuttle panel below the windscreen wipers, Darren explained.

This area is important for water drainage but can often get clogged up with leaves, flower petals, and other debris, causing water to back up, which can then enter the air conditioning and heating systems,” he said.

“Water damage can quickly escalate into a mould problem if not addressed, emphasising the importance of monitoring for leaks and ensuring proper vehicle maintenance.”

The expert listed signs of water damage, including damp carpets, a musty smell, or water stains.

“These can also often be the first sign of a more serious issue, such as a leaky sunroof or door seal, which requires immediate repair to prevent mould,” Darren added.

He advised regular checks and drainage of these areas.

SIGNS AND RISKS OF MOULD

Signs you have mould in your car:

• A persistent musty odur
• Visible mould growth on upholstery, carpets or other interior surfaces
• Increased allergy symptoms

Mould spores can be potentially hazardous, causing or worsening respiratory issues and allergic reactions.

“It’s important to be aware of the dangers that mould can pose to your health and keep an eye out for any signs of it in your vehicle,” said Darren.

“Checking your car regularly for signs of moisture or mould, even in places you can’t easily see, like under the seats or carpets, is key to maintaining a healthy environment inside your car and avoiding expensive cleaning fees.”