There are warnings that urgent action is needed to protect the health of dogs like English bulldogs and pugs.
New research from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has found that flat-faced dog breeds are more likely to suffer health conditions than other dogs, due to their 'problematic' characteristics.
Vets say that the features that so many people find 'cute' - such as deep wrinkles and noisy breathing - are actually major welfare issues rather than desirable novelties, The Manc reports.
The research found that English Bulldogs are more likely to suffer health conditions like breathing problems, skin and ear diseases and eye disorders.
English Bulldogs are more likely to suffer health conditions than other breeds. Credit: Unsplash
The breed has risen sharply in popularity in the last few years but its distinctive short muzzle and stocky body shape could be putting these adorable dogs at serious risk.
Similar research recently found that the 'extreme body shape' of pugs is causing the breed health problems, and that pug health is now so poor they can no longer be considered 'typical dogs'.
Like Bulldogs, pugs are characterised by their flat, wrinkled faces, as well as bulging eyes and a tendency towards obesity.
The RVC has warned that urgent action is required to protect both breed.
Vets say 'urgent action' is needed to stop the health issues plaguing flat-faced breeds like pugs. Credit: Unsplash
Vets hope that the data will discourage people from breeding and buying animals with 'extreme conformations', saying that the power really lies with the public to stop the demand.
Those looking to buy English Bulldogs, pugs or other flat-faced breeds should look for a longer face, smaller head, and non-wrinkled skin - a more moderate and healthier conformation.
People who already own such dogs are encouraged to monitor them carefully for breed-related issues, such as eye problems, breathing difficulties, and skin fold infections.
Dr Dan O’Neill, lead author of the paper and Associate Professor in Companion Animal Epidemiology at the RVC said: "Every dog deserves to be born with equal and good innate health by having a natural ability to breathe freely, blink fully, exercise easily, have healthy flat skin, mate and give birth.
"For breeds such as English Bulldogs where many dogs still have extreme conformations with poor innate health, the public have a huge role to play by demanding dogs with moderate and healthier conformations. Until then, prospective owners should ‘stop and think before buying a flat-faced dog'."
Dr Alison Skipper, co-author and veterinary historian, said: "Around 1900, some Bulldog breeders were already concerned that the exaggeration of ‘certain typical points’ was ‘intensifying predispositions to disease’ and producing ‘cripples and deformities’ with ‘a sadly shortened duration of life’.
"This new research provides strong evidence that modern Bulldogs remain troubled by many diseases linked to their body shapes, most of which have been recognised for more than a century.
"It confirms the need to follow the example of more responsible breeders who prioritise health in breeding decisions to improve the welfare of this popular and iconic breed in the future."
'Careful, responsible breeding can help address health problems' for pugs and English bulldogs. Credit: Unsplash
Bill Lambert, Health, Welfare and Breeder Services Executive at The Kennel Club, said: "This research, funded in part by The Kennel Club Charitable Trust, enables us and all those who care about improving Bulldog health to understand more about these complicated issues.
"Careful, responsible breeding can help address health problems and progress has been made to improve and protect Bulldog health by those reputable breeders and caring owners who make use of evidence-based tools, like The Kennel Club/University of Cambridge Respiratory Function Grading Scheme.
“However, as this research shows, there are increasing numbers of Bulldogs bred outside any sphere of influence and in a certain way because it is perceived to be ‘cute’, with little regard for health and welfare.
"A collaborative approach to tackling these issues is crucial; we must continue to work together with breeders, vets and welfare organisations to reduce and ultimately eliminate the health problems faced by brachycephalic breeds, asFoo Fighters announce line-up for Taylor Hawkins tribute concert, including Liam Gallagher well as reduce mass demand for these dogs."
Featured image: Unsplash
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Heathers The Musical at Leeds Grand Theatre – Red scrunchies, red flags, and absolute chaos | Review
There’s something wonderfully chaotic about Heathers The Musical.
On the surface, it’s a colourful high school musical packed with huge songs, outrageous characters, and plenty of laughs. But underneath the scrunchies, shoulder pads, and teenage drama is a much darker story about bullying, popularity, mental health, and the desperate need to fit in.
Heathers brought all of that glorious chaos to Leeds Grand Theatre... and, of course, how iconic it was to be performed on 1 September.
Based on the cult 1988 film starring Winona Ryder and Christian Slater, the musical follows Veronica Sawyer, an ordinary student at Westerberg High who suddenly finds herself accepted into the school’s most powerful clique, the three Heathers. But what initially feels like a dream quickly becomes a nightmare, as Veronica discovers just how far the Heathers will go to stay on top.
Credit: Pamela RaithCredit: Pamela Raith
Enter J.D, the mysterious new student who offers Veronica an escape from Westerberg’s brutal social hierarchy. Played by Louis Hearsey, J.D strikes the perfect balance between charming outsider and increasingly unsettling presence.
His chemistry with Veronica creates the foundation for one of the show's most compelling relationships, before things inevitably take a much darker turn.
But this is ultimately Gerardine Sacdalan’s show. As Veronica, Sacdalan carries the production from beginning to end, effortlessly navigating the character’s journey from awkward outsider to popular girl, and, eventually, someone desperately trying to regain control of the chaos surrounding her.
It’s a demanding role, requiring huge vocals, sharp comedy, and plenty of emotional depth, and Sacdalan delivers all three. Her vulnerability makes Veronica incredibly easy to root for, while her stage presence ensures she never gets lost amongst the larger-than-life characters around her.
Then, of course, there are the Heathers.
Liberty Stottor, Jessica Ibadin, and Lou Henry make up the infamous trio, each bringing their own personality to Westerberg’s ruling clique. Together, they absolutely own the stage during numbers like 'Candy Store', delivering the perfect combination of attitude, comedy, and chaos.
Heathers The Musical is now on stage at Leeds Grand Theatre / Credit: Pamela Raith
The show's score is another highlight, effortlessly jumping between infectious pop-rock numbers, and more emotional moments, all showcasing just how varied the musical can be.
What makes Heathers so effective, though, is its ability to balance the ridiculous with the genuinely serious. One minute, the audience is laughing at the absurdity of Westerberg High, the next the show tackles bullying, isolation, suicide, and the consequences of wanting to belong.
It’s dark, funny, outrageous, and surprisingly heartfelt - sometimes all within the space of a single scene.
For anyone already obsessed with Heathers, this touring production delivers everything you could want big performances. And if you’ve never seen it before, you may well leave Leeds Grand Theatre wondering why you suddenly want a red scrunchie.
Heathers The Musical is at Leeds Grand Theatre from 1–5 September 2026, and tickets available here.
Featured Image - Pamela Raith
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Northern’s ‘Flash Sale’ is back for 2026 with millions of train tickets on sale for just £2
Emily Sergeant
Millions of train tickets are currently on sale for just £2 each, as Northern has brought its popular ‘Flash Sale’ back for 2026.
A whopping FOUR MILLION of them, to be exact.
For the last couple of years, the rail operator has made life a little easier for train travellers by giving them the chance to grab one of several million tickets for much cheaper than normal – and now, with the cost of living crisis sadly continuing to make its impact felt, Northern has decided to kick off the autumn season by slashing prices once again.
It means that millions of people will have the opportunity to make a cut-price journey across the north of England before the end of October is out.
With the company’s regular ‘Flash Sales’ having gone onto become a, somewhat, legendary event at this point, it probably comes as no shock that you’ll need to act fast if you want to be in with a chance of get your hands tickets.
Northern’s ‘Flash Sale’ is back for 2026 with millions of train tickets on sale from £2 / Credit: Northern | Wikimedia Commons
Tickets went live today and the sale runs for three days, closing on Friday 4 September – with tickets valid for travel between 9 September and 23 October 2026.
A list of routes where tickets will be available can also be found using the ‘cheap fare finder’ tool on the Northern website here.
“With four million tickets up for grabs, this is one of our biggest Flash Sales yet, and there’s something for everyone,” commented Alex Hornby, who is the Commercial and Customer Director at Northern.
“With millions of tickets available for just £2 each, our Flash Sale will make the railway even more appealing, and we believe it will inspire everyone to explore everything our fantastic region has to offer, from bustling cities to countryside and stunning coastlines.
“Customers will need to book early to avoid disappointment, as once they’re gone, they’re gone.”
Tickets are available to buy on Northern’s app, online, at ticket offices, and on ticket machines at stations managed by Northern.
Daisy Jackson -
15th June 2022 
