It’s a bugbear for millions of people – battling for adequate phone storage. Mobile users are being encouraged to clear their devices of unwanted data in order to free up space. 

The phone experts at Telephone Systems.Cloud are urging phone users to clear out their phones in order to combat the bombardment of ‘no free storage available’ notifications.

Although the dreaded ‘no storage’ message strikes fear into the hearts of many mobile phone users there are a few ways to prevent it. 

There are plenty of things that can clog up a device as data is stored in pretty much every aspect of a phone. 

However, by deleting old photos and videos and even disabling offline music streaming, making space on mobile devices can be done, with a little perseverance.

Alastair Bates, Managing Director of Telephone Systems.Cloud said: “Getting constant notifications because of a lack of storage can be extremely frustrating but there are a few tricks to help free up space on a mobile phone.

“The main way to avoid this type of warning message is by clearing any unwanted or unnecessary clutter like old photos, videos, and unused apps. 

“A mobile phone cleanse might not only help to free up storage but also improve the efficiency and running speed of a device too.”

Here are Telephone Systems.Cloud’s top tips for creating space on a mobile phone.

Clear old photos

More often than not it’s our camera rolls that are holding us back when it comes to storage space. Endless rows of selfies, memes, and screenshots can clog up our phones and can not only lead to a lack of storage but can affect the longevity of a mobile device. It’s important to note the more high-quality the camera, the more storage space the pictures take up. Make some space by deleting copies of the same photo or outdated screenshots that are no longer of use.

Utilise a cloud-based service

Using a cloud-based service is a great way to store any files that you don’t necessarily need on the device. With most services, there is a certain amount of storage available for free, and after that, there is usually a fee to pay. However, it is well worth it if there are valuable memories that can’t all be stored on mobile devices.

Reinstall large apps

Some larger apps tend to cache data and other information over a period of time which means they can take up more space than necessary. On most smartphones, you can locate how much storage each app is using in the phone’s settings. Delete apps that take up a large amount of space and once redownloaded, they should take up significantly less.

Delete apps

Although this may seem like common sense there are often many apps that get overlooked that aren’t used. Specific apps like games store their data locally, so when deleted all progress will be lost, so bear this in mind when having a clear out. Other apps like social media are all account-based and therefore can be deleted and downloaded again at any point without fear of losing any information.

Delete old messages

A lot of people are unaware that text message threads actually take up a lot of space on our phones. Deleting old junk messages, activation codes, and long threads between friends, and family can provide some much needed storage.

Clear old notes

Deleting notes won’t free up masses of space but if things are getting tight then this can be a last resort solution. Store important notes in a safe place like a physical filing system or alternatively the cloud.

Voicemails

Every phone is different in terms of accessing voicemails but generally, they can be found via the device’s phonebook. Delete any old messages that could be clogging up the cache of the device. Again, this won’t make the most storage but it can certainly help.

Disable playlists

Most music streaming services have a feature allowing users to listen to playlists offline without the use of the internet. Turn this feature off and save space or just limit the amount of music downloaded at one time. 

Anthony Wood says…

I live in Melton my partner was at the market today and found a purse, there is nothing inside it but money and a receipt for Lidl Grantham could you ask around if anyone has lost it please?

Contact via GranthamMatters@gmail.com

What is lottery fraud? Criminals will contact unsuspecting victims informing them they have won a lottery or prize draw. The victim is then informed that they will need to pay an advance fee in order to receive their winnings. In reality, the winnings are non-existent and it is an attempt to steal the victims money, personal or financial information. Between April and October 2021, Action Fraud received 629 reports of lottery fraud, with 89 per cent of reports mentioning well-known prize draws. Impersonation of People’s Postcode Lottery accounted for almost half (49 per cent) of all reports. Almost three quarters of victims (70 per cent) were aged over 50, with those aged over 65 accounting for 40 per cent of reports. Fraudsters use gift cards as a form of payment as they can be easily redeemed and sold on. The criminals don’t need the physical card to redeem the value as they ask the victims to share the serial code on the back of the card with them. In other instances, victims reported being asked for personal and financial information in order to obtain their alleged winnings. Some victims reported providing their bank details thinking they would be sent a small payment to verify the account. In reality, criminals will use these details to steal the victim’s money. How to protect yourself Stop: Unsolicited offers of large sums of money in return for a small upfront payment should always raise a red flag. Taking a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe. Challenge: Could it be fake? Remember, you can’t win a prize in a competition you didn’t enter. It’s okay to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you. Protect: If you think you’ve been a victim of fraud, contact your bank immediately and report it to Action Fraud online at actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040. You can find further protection advice around lotteries and competition on the Gambling Commission’s website.

New data from Action Fraud, the national reporting centre for fraud and cyber crime, reveals that 28,049 shoppers were conned out of their money when shopping online over the Christmas period last year – an increase of almost two thirds (61 per cent) when compared to the same period in the previous year.

Ahead of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Action Fraud is warning the public to take extra care when shopping online as reports of online shopping fraud have continued to surge. Here are some simple tips to help you and your family enjoy a secure online shopping experience this festive season.

Where to shop
Buying from an online store you haven’t used before? Carry out some research first, or ask a friend or family member if they’ve used the site and about their experiences before completing the purchase.

Your information
Only create an account if necessary or to save you effort if you’re going to use that site a lot in the future. Be cautious if the website asks you for details that are not required for your purchase, such as your mother’s maiden name or the name of your primary school.

Payment method
When it’s time to pay for your items, check there’s a ‘closed padlock’ icon in the browser’s address bar. Use a credit card when shopping online, if you have one. Most major credit card providers protect online purchases.

Phishing
Some of the messages you receive about amazing offers may contain links to fake websites. If you’re unsure about a link, don’t use the it – go separately to the website. Report suspicious emails you receive by forwarding them to: report@phishing.gov.uk. Report suspicious text messages by forwarding them to: 7726.

Email accounts:
Make sure that your really important accounts (such as your email account or online shopping accounts) are protected by strong passwords that you don’t use anywhere else.

Need help changing your email account password? You can use these links to find step by step instructions: Gmail, Yahoo! Mail, Outlook, BT, AOL Mail. 

If things go wrong
If you’ve lost money to an online shopping scam, tell your bank and report it as a crime to Action Fraud (for England, Wales and Northern Ireland) or Police Scotland (for Scotland). By doing this, you’ll be helping to prevent others becoming victims of cyber crime.

For more of the government’s latest advice on how to stay secure online, visit the Cyber Aware website: https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/cyberaware

Green-fingered Brits are being offered ideas for the best gardening gifts to purchase for their loved ones this Christmas.

The team at GardenBuildingsDirect.co.uk have put together the ultimate Christmas gift guide to treat budding gardeners and outdoor lovers this festive season.

With the Christmas period approaching, shoppers up and down the country will be seeking unique gift ideas for friends and family.

Choosing an appropriate gift can be a tricky task especially when it comes to gardening – but there are plenty of options to choose from. 

From a trusty pair of gardening gloves to protect hands from the harsh winter weather, to a boutique plant mister for the indoor plant keeper – there is a present for every type of gardener.

A spokesperson for GardenBuildingsDirect.co.uk said: “It’s finally that time of year to start Christmas shopping which can be difficult for those lacking inspiration.

“For family friends who have a keen interest in gardening or even ones that don’t, there are countless ways to put a smile on someone’s face this Christmas.

“Flower subscriptions and ‘grow your own kits’ are perfect for those who may not have time to be in the garden but will appreciate something to keep in the house.

“Whereas kneeling pads and trowel sets are ideal for people who can spend more time outside in the garden.”

Here are GardenBuildingsDirect.co.uk’s top ten gifts to give this Christmas:

Plant mister
Perfect for those who cherish their indoor plants, a chique and stylish plant mister isn’t just a practical way of giving plants the love and affection they need – but can also be a great addition to an empty windowsill or bear shelf.

Leather gloves
Gloves are an essential item for gardeners of any experience level. Suited more so for the winter climes, leather gardening gloves can provide much needed protection and warmth to vulnerable fingers. Some retailers may even offer an embossing service that can help give a pair of gloves a thoughtful and personal touch.

Flower subscription
If the receiver loves a fresh bunch of flowers on the dining table, then this could be the ideal gift for them. Subscription services can range from fresh flowers every week to tropical house plants for botanical beginners. 

12-hour water bottle
Crisp winter afternoons in the garden should always be accompanied with a hot beverage of some kind. These insulated water bottles can keep drinks piping hot for up to 12 hours and chilled drinks for up to 24 hours.

Copper ornaments
With copper tones stealing the show in gardens this year, sculptures are one way to make a green space one of a kind. Whether it’s a small bird bath or a lifesize artistic sculpture, there are a variety of options available at a range of price points.

Fork and trowel
Essential for a gardener at any level, fork and trowel sets can be relatively inexpensive and make for excellent stocking fillers. These sets can range in price depending on the type, make and quality of the tools. Some retailers offer engraving services to personal sets, and bring someone a sentimental gift that can last a lifetime.

Grow your own kits

Venus fly traps, Bonsai trees, chilli plants, you name it and there is a grow your own kit for it. Ideal for those who are new to gardening or who are seeking a quirky experiment to try at home.

Bug hotel
For wildlife lovers there is no better gift this Christmas than a bug hotel. Most hotels can be  easily installed, boast a positive impact to the environment, and provide a fun source of entertainment for kids.

Welly socks
Welly boots are notorious for giving gardeners cold feet, so why not treat a loved one to a warm pair of socks made for wellies. Not only do they keep feet comfy and warm but they can help prevent blisters caused by rubbing too. Alpaca fur and merino wool can be found on the expensive end of the spectrum to make for a luxurious stocking filler, or opt for the more affordable cotton and polyester blend – perfect for a secret Santa.

Kneeling pad
A brilliant practical idea for gardeners of every age, kneeling pads have shown great benefit when protecting the knees when attending ground level gardening and also keeping them clean too! Consider a durable pad made from ideally heavy plastic or coated metal for the winter months – the elements can be harsh on weaker materials.

Greenhouse
For those looking to go the extra mile this Christmas, why not consider gifting a luxury greenhouse? Greenhouses provide a safe space to grow fruit and veg away from the harsh winter elements. It’s the perfect gift for friends and family who love to garden all year round. 

The holiday season is quickly approaching and new research reveals when most Brits will put up their Christmas tree this year.

Penny pinching pro’s NetVoucherCodes.co.uk asked Brits the age old question – when should you put your Christmas tree up?

Each year it seems as though the festivities begin earlier and earlier and whilst some people think it’s okay to put the tree up in October, others wait until we are well into December before decorating.

Last year many Brits decided to put up their tree extra early due to lockdown boredom.

Celebrities like Britney Spears have already shared that they’re getting into the festive spirit early by showcasing their tree on Instagram in the past few weeks.

The data from NetVoucherCodes.co.uk reveals that just over half of Brits put their tree up in December, and out of those people, 41% agree that the tree should go up in the first week of December.

Surprisingly, 44% of Brits put up their tree in November.

Traditionally, the tree should be put up at the start of advent, which is the fourth Sunday before Christmas, any earlier is deemed as being bad luck.

When looking at this year’s calendar, the beginning of advent falls on November 27th, the last full week of November, which according to the data is when 32% of Brits will be decorating their tree.

A spokesperson for NetVoucherCodes.co.uk said: “It’s a debate we have each year with one another – how early is too early to put up the tree?

“Our research found that some people find it so much hassle that they wait as long as possible before setting up their Christmas tree and some don’t even put one up at all.

“On the other end of the spectrum, you have families and individuals that will have theirs up as early as October and November, especially this year with the fear of Christmas tree shortages.

“We already know that a lot of Brits choose to put their tree up in the first week of December but actually a large 44% also put their tree up in November.”

The 10% of Brits who wait until the middle of December to put their tree up are usually waiting for birthdays and other events like Bonfire Night to pass, but perhaps we should start putting up our tree earlier.

According to professional psychologists, decorating for Christmas leads to an increase in dopamine, which is our feel-good hormone, and produces happiness.

This all happens because festive decorations remind us of childhood which was a much simpler and happier time.

Whenever you put the tree up – make sure there are plenty of mince pies and festive tunes to accompany.

Alzheimer’s Society is urging people caring for a loved one with dementia in Lincolnshire to get in touch if they have questions about the support and benefits they are entitled to, ahead of this year’s Carers’ Rights Day on 25 November.

We estimate this silent army of 1.8 million unpaid carers save the UK economy £13.9 billion a year, including £199.8m in Lincolnshire, but many carers are unaware of where to turn to for help.

Since the coronavirus pandemic began, over six million people have accessed our services, including our Dementia Connect support line (0333 150 3456). This vital support has been a real lifeline for thousands during the crisis, but we want to reach more people affected by dementia.

Our team of dedicated Dementia Advisers help the partners, family members and friends caring for loved ones to navigate the complicated maze of health and social care services. Whether it’s advice on legal documents, help understanding dementia, or someone to talk to when things get tough, they are there to help.

Alzheimer’s Society is campaigning for quality social care for people affected by dementia. We believe social care should be free at the point of use, like the NHS and education, and easy to access for anyone affected by dementia. To find out more and join our campaign visit alzheimers.org.uk/curethecaresystem

Yours sincerely

Danielle Cooper,

Area Manager for Alzheimer’s Society

• The six best cat-friendly dog breeds have been revealed
• Plus tips for introducing a new pet to your existing furry friend

Introducing a new pet to the household can be a difficult job, especially when introducing a cat to a dog. And with searches for ‘best dogs with cats’ increasing by 55% in the last year, just what are the most cat-friendly dog breeds?  

Below, experts at dog-friendly holiday letting specialist Canine Cottages reveal six of the most cat-friendly pooches that make purrfect feline friends, as well as top tips for introducing cats and dogs in the home.

1. Golden retrieversOne of the nation’s most favourite breeds, golden retrievers are incredibly patient and loving dogs that makes them a great choice for feline friends. Even if your cat is unsure or playful upon first meetings, golden retrievers will happily sit back and give the cat the time it needs to settle in without barking back.
2. Basset houndsWith their placid personality and calm demeanour, the doleful-eyed basset hound makes a great companion for cats. They originally are bred as pack dogs, so love being around other pets, and due to being so easy-going and friendly, they will rarely bother with even the most stubborn of cats!
3. BeagleAs a hunting dog, you might not think a beagle would be a good cat companion, but they make great feline siblings. Beagles hate being left on their own, so welcome a cat’s company when you’re out and about. Loving and affectionate, they’re a great feline friend.
4. PugDue to their small size and gentle nature, pugs are among the most compatible breeds for cats – in fact it’s because of this that many pet owners will find their pug snuggling up to their cat for a nap. Pugs are bundles of energy, so are better off places with a cat who isn’t overly shy or nervous.
5. Bichon FriseAnother great feline friend, bichon frises are exceptionally loving and affectionate dogs and will show this side of them to their kitty companions. However, they can become a bit too clingy at times, so may be overwhelming for a cat who prefers to fly solo.
6. LabradorA lover not a fighter, a Labrador will happily accept any other pet in the household. Labradors are very trustworthy, gentle and tolerant and it’s because of their lovely nature that they make such good companions for cats.

And for particular breeds to avoid, terriers and hounds (greyhounds, wolfhounds, deerhounds) tend to be less cat-friendly and can be aggressive towards felines.

So, what’s the best way to introduce a new cat or dog to your existing household pet? While many furry friends simply won’t bother with a new arrival, if your dog or cat is showing signs of distress upon meeting, for example ears being pinned back, running away or stiffening their bodies, then there are things you can do to help safely introduce them to one another.

Face-to-face method

1. Try introducing them face-to-face, allowing the animals to sniff each other out and become used to them.
2. Hold your dog on a loose lead and allow the cat to roam freely.
3. If the dog is calm, ignores the cat and doesn’t try to chase or go after them, and the cat is not arching its back or hissing, then it’s a sure-fire sign that your pets will get along just fine.

Desensitization method

1. If this doesn’t work, then try desensitization – reducing your dog’s reaction to a cat to get into a space of simply ignoring them. This is because, usually, it is a dog who will show more interest and cause more issues with a cat, than a cat would with a dog.
2. Separate your cat and dog by leaving your cat in a room with a baby gate across the door, always making sure your cat has everything it needs including a litter tray, food, water and access to outside.
3. Let your dog see the cat through the gate, but then get them to focus on something else, such as a toy or treat.
4.  Praise and reward your dog when they can focus on something else, and if not then continue the process until they do.
5. Proceed with these small viewings and soon enough your dog should be desensitized to the cat.

Commenting, Shannon Keary, Digital PR Manager at Canine Cottages notes: “We’re a nation of animal lovers, and it can be sometimes difficult introducing a new pet to an existing cat or dog already living in your home. For anyone looking to get a new cat, we hope this list of feline-friendly pooches will help, as well as tips on how to introduce a new pet to the mix. And do remember that although these are generally good breeds for cats, the relationship between a cat and dog is dependent on the character of the animals and the manner in which the two are introduced and managed.”

To read more about the best cat-friendly dog breeds, please visit: https://www.caninecottages.co.uk/blog/the-most-cat-friendly-dog-breeds

Customer Service Adviser Our Customer Contact Centre in Sleaford currently handles approximately 15,000 telephone calls per month. We also receive customers in person each day at our main office at Sleaford and our INFO-LINKS office at North Hykeham. You will be required to work at both locations, so a flexible approach to work is essential.We are committed to a customer focused workforce. You will have the right attitude and a passion for customer services. We can then develop your knowledge and skills to deliver a great customer experience. You will already have experience of working in a customer facing role. You will need to have the ability to use modern technology accurately and be able to work to processes. £20,092 – £21,7481 x Permanent 22 hour Part Time post Monday – Tuesday 08:45 – 17:00 and Friday 08:45 – 16:30Closing date for applications is 30th November 2021. Interviews will be held on 7th December 2021 The process will include both a formal interview and role play. There will also be a requirement to undertake an IT test. For further information and to apply visit www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/jobs   North Kesteven District Council

Grantham man Leigh Buff is organising this fundraiser.

The father-of-four shed more than 14 stone, nearly half his body weight, during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The 37-year-old now weighs 17st 8lbs stone after changing his diet and lifestyle, losing 14 stone in just 12 months.

He says: “Hi.

“Last year I asked for your help to raise money for the Food Bank and Grantham Passage. Well, I wanna go again!

This time though, this not quite so fat boy will be RUNNING 2 to 4 times a week and hopefully finish with a 5k in the Christmas week maybe dressed as Santa for a bubble.

“Please, I know times are hard for everyone but there even harder for some others out there if everyone on my Facebook and Instagram donate £1 I’ll smash my target.

“If anyone would wants to get involved holla at me”

 PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE 

HELP ME HELP OTHERS BIG LOVE – FROM THE BIG DOG

BE BOLD BE EPIC BE YOU 

To donate go to Fundraiser by Leigh Buff : Support the BIG DOG to help those in need (gofundme.com)

Julia Harris says…

Our shed in the Chelmsford Drive area was broken into last night and a Marin bike stolen.

Here are the details – so avoid biying a second hand bike with that description.

Enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) is the single most important thing you can do to improve the security of your online accounts, says Action Fraud What is 2FA? Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a way of strengthening the login security of your online accounts. It’s similar to how an ATM works. You need both your debit card (first factor) and your PIN (second factor) to get access your account and withdraw cash. The main objective is better security. If your card is stolen, they still need your PIN. If your PIN is stolen, they still need your card. Enabling 2FA will help to stop hackers from getting into your accounts, even if they have your password. How do I enable 2FA on my accounts? Here are links you can use to enable 2FA on some of the most popular online services and apps:GmailYahooOutlookAOLInstagramFacebookTwitterLinkedIn For more of the government’s latest advice on how to stay secure online, visit the Cyber Aware website: https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/cyberaware Thanks for reading! If you found this information useful, please help us spread the word by forwarding this email to your friends.

Claire Wells says…

This is our young tabby cat.

She is a house cat but decided to escape out the door when I went to collect the post.

She has been missing for a week now and her sister is pining for her and I am missing her dreadfully. She is recognised easily by the way her tail arches up over her back.

Please check your garages and sheds as we think she might have gone in for shelter and accidentally got locked in. We live on Brittain Drive so there is fair distance she could have got to.

Many thanks

Ches Chester asks,

Anyone found a wallet in ASDA petrol station this morning on the pump,About 8.30 Sunday

Shock new figures reveal more than a dozen Brits have been sacked… for vaping in the workplace. Leading online vaping retailer E-Cigarette Direct carried out a nationwide – Vaping in the Workplace Study – which surveyed around 2,000 vapers, to understand their attitudes and experiences to a host of employment issues around vaping. Read more about the survey. It is thought to be the most comprehensive study of its type to be conducted in the UK – coming just weeks after the Government announced patients could soon be prescribed e-cigarettes on the NHS for the first time.  The E-Cigarette Direct Vaping in the Workplace Study found: 13 people admitted they had actually lost their jobs through vaping – with men (9) twice as likely as women (4) to get fired. There were significant levels of discrimination aimed at vapers in the workplace. 224 vapers admitted to being discriminated against, with the North East a particular hotspot where they feel they are being treated differently. Many vapers have also been bullied at work – with almost one in ten respondents working in the Real Estate sector alone lifting the lid on this issue. The authors of the study hope to enhance understanding among employers around workplace vaping and lobby for change to challenge negativity towards this habit.    James Dunworth, Chairman of E-Cigarette Direct said: “It is quite shocking to learn people have actually lost their jobs due to vaping. “It is also concerning many people have experienced bullying and discrimination. “Vaping in the workplace is a little-explored area so we devised our study to help understand the challenges faced by vapers in the working world, and gather data to help employers make informed decisions to aid staff retention, health and morale. “We spend at least a third of our waking lives at work and our working environment has a huge influence on our health and happiness – so these issues are hugely significant for people who wish to vape while at work.”  In contrast to smoking, people are legally allowed to vape inside. E-Cigarette Direct says there is no evidence passive vapour causes harm to bystanders (1) and says the UK Government actively encourages employers to provide a smoke-free area for vapers (2). However, E-Cigarette Direct’s research found 75% of vapers are not allowed to vape at work, unless in dedicated smoking areas.   The company says this is in direct contravention of Public Health England guidance (now UK Health Security Agency), which states:  “…vapers should not be required to use the same space as smokers, as this could undermine their ability to quit smoking and stay smokefree, particularly among those most heavily addicted.” (2) Analysis: Restrictions: The poll of 1,931 people across the UK found vaping restrictions were most likely to be found in Finance, Banking and Insurance (88%) followed by Government, Health and Education (86%). They were least likely to be found in Construction (44%).  Job losses: The study found 13 people said they had been dismissed for vaping. The most dismissals had been within Government, Education, Health and Defence, with the highest rate of job loss seen in the Yorkshire and Humber region.  Discrimination and bullying: A total of 17 per cent working in the Real Estate sector have actively considered changing their job because of vaping restrictions. This job sector recorded the highest level of discrimination (16 per cent) and bullying (8 per cent).  Nationally, 224 respondents of vapers felt they had been discriminated against because of vaping. Men were more likely to report being discriminated against than women.  Almost 1 in 5 people said that colleagues had reacted negatively to them vaping, while 44 said they had been bullied because of vaping. Career prospects: 80 respondents said they had been asked in a job interview if they vaped, with 41 suspecting they were refused a role because of vaping. The same number (41) felt that their career prospects had been damaged by vaping. More people working in the food and accommodation sector than any other employment field were asked if they vape at their job interview, with people in this sector being left with the most suspicions they had been rejected for job roles because of vaping.  Mr Dunworth said: “We found evidence of significant negativity around workplace vaping, however almost all vapers use vaping to quit or cut down on smoking or to prevent relapse.   “We recommend employers ensure they and their employees are aware of national health guidance on vaping; it is at least 95% safer than smoking and it is the most effective and popular way to quit smoking (3). We hope our findings can lead to real positive change for vapers in the workplace.”  You can read more about the Vaping in the Workplace study here on the E-Cigarette Direct website.

The average UK motorist clocks up 7,400 miles a year – but what are the parts of your car most likely to get damaged along the way?

The experts at LeaseCar.uk have researched online search data to find which are the most likely car parts that need replacing, whether through a collision or accidental damage. Failure to repair damaged headlights could result in a £1,000 fine.

Knowing which car parts are most vulnerable can help you regularly look out for faults, get them mended and enable you to get back on the road as soon as possible.

A spokesman for LeaseCar.uk said: “Everyone wants to take good care to protect their vehicle, but from time to time, incidents and accidents happen.

“It is useful to be able to highlight which parts of a car are most vulnerable to bumps, scrapes and other incidents in order that they can be repaired speedily to get you back on the road and save further expense down the line if repairs are not made in good time.”

Here are some of the most likely car parts to be accidentally damaged:

Wheel well frame – also known as ‘fenders’,  these parts of the vehicle body frame the wheels. They are designed to ‘fend off’ dirt by preventing tyres on the move from throwing mud, sand, liquid, or other road debris. Can be susceptible to front and side impact accidents.

Front and rear bumper – Bumpers are designed to protect the car from shocks, so it is no surprise it is one of the most likely parts of a car to be damaged. Ensure it is replaced speedily in the event of an accident as it is designed to protect. A foam layer behind the exterior of the bumper acts as a shock absorber. Always slow down to prevent tail gating and ensuring there is an extra ‘safety bubble’ between you and the vehicle behind.

Alloy wheels – multi-million pounds worth of damage has been caused to alloy wheels which have been ‘kerbed’ or damaged in accidents in the UK each year. Often motorists do not address the damage but it is always important to get them checked out to stop further deterioration of the wheels and to check for any other hidden damage to the wheel axis or other parts of the wheel.

Grilles – these are at the front of your bonnet, and one of the first things to be damaged in the event of a front impact collision. They are vital for regulating air flow throughout the engine so must be fixed urgently in the event of a crash. 

Bonnet and boot – Similar to a grille, a crumpled bonnet must also be replaced as soon as possible. The damage might be so extensive that an entire replacement part is needed from a similar vehicle or from the vehicle manufacturer. Collisions to the front or back of the car can result in damage to the bonnet or boot latch, so ensure these are checked at a garage to ensure they are repaired adequately, before setting off on the road again. Faulty latches can be a major hazard to the motorist and their occupants and other road users.

Tail lights and headlights – you can be stopped by the police and penalised for having faulty lights and being at the corner of the vehicle, they are a vulnerable feature of cars. They are also easily crushed in an accident as they are made of plastic. Have a maintenance routine where you regularly check the state of your car lights to look out for damage and faulty bulbs and prioritise getting these changed. You can be fined £100 for faulty headlight, rising to £1,000 if you lose a challenge in court.

Windscreen – insurance companies have protection policies for your windscreen for an important reason – because they are susceptible to damage from flying stones or other road debris and passing cars. Small dents should be treated as seriously as a huge crack, as these have a tendency to increase in size, particularly in weather temperature extremes. Always get damaged windscreens repaired as soon as possible.

Ed says…

Parking on SKDC car parks is both detrimental to local business and a rip off.

Firstly, you have to decide – to the nearest hour upwards – how long you will be staying.

So you pay your fee, walk towards the shops, run into someone you haven’t seen lately – and before you know it – there are 20 minutes left and counting (downwards).

So why can they do what the hospitals do? You pay on return what you owe.

Imaging being halfway through an outpatient vascectomy when you suddenly have to dash outside to top up your parking fee. Also with hospitals, you just register and the bill is taken care of with online banking.

At least you know where you are with supermarkets, even if it does mean 2.5 hours at Asda before moving to Lidl for a further two. It’s a lot cheaper too.