Fortunately, the Road Traffic Act of 1988 contains all you need to know about cars, roads, and the UK. (source: Legislation.gov.uk)

You can own a car without having a driving license in any part of the UK. The law doesn’t bar anyone from owning cars, provided you own them through legal means. Per UK legislation, there’s also no age restriction to owning a car, and you don’t need any unique document.

However, non-residents cannot own a car in the UK since they need a fixed address for legal and insurance registration. In this article, I’ll dive into all you need to know about buying, financing, and selling cars in the United Kingdom.

Can You Buy a Car Without a License in the UK?

The United Kingdom law is clear about all things on driving licenses and car ownership. For example, anyone can get a license if they fulfill the laid requirements and pass the tests (source: Gov.uk)

However, there’s a chance you could be without a license, and you might be interested in buying a car. So, can you buy a car without a license?

You can buy a car without having a driving license in the UK. There’s no law prohibiting unlicensed purchases, but you’ll need to have a provisional license to drive it on any UK road—even if the car dealership is close to your home. So, you might want to consider having it delivered instead.

Although you don’t need a license, you need to have a Ministry Of Transport (MOT) roadworthiness pass certificate for your car, insurance documents, and, sometimes, a vehicle excise license to purchase a car legally. 

However, you don’t need these documents in all cases, and some dealerships will sell most cars to you if you have an MOT roadworthiness pass certificate and some way to prove you’re a UK citizen. (sources: Angloinfo and Gov.uk)

It’s a bit different if you’re a foreigner. While foreigners can buy cars in the UK, you must have a driving license—either an international driving license or a UK-issued one—and have a legal UK address and a valid means of identification and other required documents.

Here’s how to buy a car in the UK:

1. Carefully inspect the car you’re interested in when you find a dealership or seller in your area. Ensure the dealership has the car’s V5C vehicle registration certificate to ensure the legitimacy of all its parts—even if it’s a new car. Remember to check the registration number and MOT test number too. (source: Safe Driving For Life)
   
2. Buy the car and register it with the Driver & Vehicle Licensing Agency. You’ll need to register both new and used vehicles bought in the UK. However, old cars with V5C vehicle registration certificates need to be taxed before you can drive them on UK roads. (source: Gov.uk)
   
3. Get car insurance. Insurance is vital, and you can get into serious trouble in the UK if you own a car without insurance papers. You can check here to confirm if your car is insured. (source: Gov.uk)
   
4. Pay the car’s tax fees. Although almost everyone has to pay mandatory taxes to drive in the UK legally, there are some exceptions if you’re disabled or drive certain vehicles. However, you need to tax your car even if you’re not legally required to pay. (source: Gov.UK)

Afterward, you can drive the car home or have the dealer deliver it to you if you don’t have a driving license.

Can You Get Car Finance Without a Driving License in the UK?

You might want to purchase a car, but you might be financially limited and unable to do so—that’s why we have car finance.

Car financing allows individuals to become car owners through loans that you can serve over months or years. While car finance is majorly uncomplicated, many people might wonder what impact a driving license might play if you want to get car finance. (source: My Car Credit)

You can get car finance without a driving license in the UK. You’ll need a means of identification to get the loan, but a passport or similar document will work in most cases. However, some lenders might insist you have a full driving license before authorizing the loan.

Foreigners and residents of any nationality can also get car finance in the UK. Still, you’ll need a driving license, credit history, and a UK address if you fall into this category. A lot goes into car financing, and some technical parts depend on the lender and car dealership.

Can You Sell a Car Without a License in the UK?

I’ve explored the possibility of buying cars in the UK without a license, but you may wonder if it’s possible to sell a car—or someone else’s car—if you don’t have a driving license.

After all, since you can buy and own a vehicle without a license, there must be a drawback in selling, right? Unsurprisingly, UK legislation is pretty straightforward about these things, and you can probably guess the answer.

You can sell a car without having a driving license in the UK. You can sell your car or other people’s cars as long as you have the DVLA-required documents for vehicle sales. You also don’t need additional dealing licenses when selling vehicles in the UK.

Of course, make sure you have all the papers required when selling your car. You’ll need to provide all the documents you got when purchasing the vehicle. UK law also requires that you inform the DVLA after selling a vehicle for tax refund and record-keeping purposes. (source: Gov.uk)

You don’t need a driving license to own, buy or sell a car in the UK. While you might need some other documents for identification, insurance, and legal purposes, UK law does not list a driving license as a requirement for any of these activities.

The same applies to car financing. And although some lenders and dealers might insist on customers presenting a full license, it’s not the law.

You can paint plastic garden furniture using brush-on paint as well as spray paint. Spray paint is often preferred because it’s easier to use and dries much quicker than the alternative. Repainting is inexpensive and allows you to revamp your old plastic furniture.

In the rest of this article, I’ll look at the best paint for plastic garden furniture. I’ll also provide a step-by-step guide on how to quickly and easily paint your neglected plastic furniture and give some paint recommendations for the best results.

What’s the Best Paint for Plastic Garden Furniture?

You’re probably wondering whether you can use that old can of paint from a previous DIY project. You can use any colour for this project, as long as it’s suitable for use on plastic surfaces. Additionally, you’ll need to ensure you have all the tools you need.

The best paint for plastic garden furniture is spray-on paint. Spray-on paint offers good coverage without you waiting long for it to dry. It’s very efficient and takes hardly any time at all. Plus it will provide you with a much more even result than traditional brush painting. 

Using spray paint is simple and effective. Also, it will take just a few minutes to cover one piece of plastic garden furniture. Spray paint also holds up well to the elements and is relatively inexpensive (source: Paint Spray Tools).

If you don’t fancy the finish that comes with spray paint, you can use traditional brush paint. The only downside to this is that it will take longer to paint evenly, and you may have to wait much longer for the paint to dry thoroughly. 

If you aren’t a seasoned professional, you might end up with streaks. Still, it’s much quicker and more effective to use spray-on paint on smaller projects (source: Gardening Adviser).

Another great thing about spray paints is that they often come with primer. You can spray this through the nozzle at the same time as the paint, leaving an even, fresh finish. This means you won’t need to apply primer to your plastic garden furniture before painting (source: Painted Furniture Ideas).

How To Paint Plastic Garden Furniture

I’ll now look at the steps to take when painting your plastic garden furniture. This is a relatively simple project that beginners and experts can complete. Thankfully, it’s pretty quick, so you won’t spend all day doing it either.

For the sake of simplicity, we’ll talk about painting plastic garden chairs – but the steps are applicable to any plastic furniture including tables.

1. Ensure Your Plastic Chairs Aren’t Scratched or Broken

This is an important step, especially if you’ve kept your chairs in storage for a long time. You’ll need to make sure that the plastic isn’t dented or scratched – if it is, buff out the scratches if you can.

However, if your chairs are wobbly or broken, you’d be better off purchasing a new set of plastic chairs to paint. Although spray paint will revamp your chairs and give them a new lease of life, it won’t look good if they’re broken, and scratches can’t be easily covered with paint (source: Family Handyman).

2. Prepare Your Workspace

Working in a well-ventilated space is crucial at this stage. You don’t want to inhale your spray paint, so working outside or in an airy garage is your best option. Don’t try to do this inside the house; you’ll inhale the fumes (and get paint everywhere).

Get all your tools ready and lay out some tarp or newspaper underneath your plastic chair to protect the ground. Here are the tools you’ll need for the project:

• Spray paint can
• Cleaning solution
• Microfiber cloth
• Masking tape (if using more than one colour)

You shouldn’t need more than this to paint your plastic furniture (source: Krylon).

3. Clean Your Plastic Chairs

You’ll need to give your plastic chairs a good scrub. Make sure to rinse off all debris, dust and dirt thoroughly. You may need to repeat this process several times to get them squeaky clean. IF you’re outside, use the hose. I do!

If you don’t clean your plastic chairs sufficiently, the paint will trap the dirt particles beneath it. This will leave uneven bumps you won’t be able to remove without stripping the paint and starting over.

4. Start Spray Painting the Chairs

This is the fun part – spray painting the chairs is an easy step, and won’t take much time. You can use any colour you wish, and you can also use more than one. 

If you decide to use two or more colours, use the masking tape to mark the design you wish to follow. You can practice on a piece of paper if you’re feeling creative. 

For the purposes of this tutorial, let’s assume you’re using a single colour. Follow the steps below to spray paint your plastic furniture:

1. Turn the chair upside down, so the legs are in the air. It’s usually much easier to paint the legs and underside of the chair first. Still,  you can skip this step if you’re not painting the legs.
   
2. Hold the can about 13 inches (33 cm) away from the furniture. If you get too close to the chair, you won’t get even coverage and might run out of paint faster.
   
3. Spray evenly in long, uniform lines. Always try to overlap each line you paint to get the best coverage. 
   
4. Wait for the chair to dry. It should dry in around 20 minutes or less with the right spray paint. Whatever you do, try to avoid allowing the chair to dry in direct, intense sunlight since this might leave cracks in the paint and cause it to peel (source: M Brett Painting Company Inc). 
   
5. Once the legs are fully dry, turn the chair back to its original position. Follow the same process to paint the seat and the back of the chair. 
   
6. Once again, wait for the paint to dry. If you feel it needs more coverage or it’s not quite the depth of colour you were looking for, repeat the process until you’re satisfied with the result.

Product Recommendations for Painting Plastic Furniture

If you fancy revamping your plastic furniture, you’ll need to buy the correct paint for the job. As I mentioned earlier, you can use traditional brush-on paint using a paintbrush – but spray-on paint works much better. 

Here are a couple of products from Amazon.co.uk that will give your plastic furniture the overhaul they need.

Best Overall Paint for Plastic Garden Furniture

Krylon Fusion All-in-One for Indoor/Outdoor Use

The Krylon Fusion spray paint is an excellent choice for plastic furniture. It’s a bit expensive, but durable and creates the perfect finish. Also, the colour is deep and gorgeous – perfect for revamping your outdoor furniture set.

Be mindful of the warnings on the label since spray paint can be toxic if ingested or absorbed into the skin. So, wear gloves and a mask if you’re planning to use it.

Best Budget Paint for Plastic Garden Furniture

Rust-Oleum Spray Paint in Bramwell

If you’re on a budget, the Rust-Oleum spray paint is the best option. It comes in a natural green colour and gives you a beautiful matte finish. It only needs one coat, so if you’re short on time, this is a good choice.

You can also use this spray paint indoors, which is excellent if you don’t have any outdoor space. It’s straightforward to apply and doesn’t crack easily.

If you want to paint your plastic furniture, the process is simple, even for beginners. Plastic is easier to spray paint than wood, so you can even do it for a fun afternoon activity with your kids. Have fun!

You are allowed to burn wood in your garden as long as the smoke and smell don’t disturb your neighbours. Also, the fire must not create toxic fumes or obstruct traffic on your street. 

Read further to discover if it’s illegal to have a fire in your garden and what you’re allowed to burn. I’ll also discuss if there are certain times when bonfires are or aren’t permitted. 

Is It Illegal To Have a Fire in Your Garden in the UK?

There may be various reasons you want to have a fire in your garden: burning garden waste, having a fun campfire and roasting marshmallows, or celebrating bonfire night. But before you go ahead, is it illegal to have a fire in your garden? 

It’s not illegal to have a fire in your garden in the UK. However, your fire shouldn’t emit dark smoke (typically from domestic waste), smoke excessively, or pose a danger to traffic in the area. 

It’s perfectly fine to have a small bonfire or barbecue in your garden. Still, most city councils in the UK encourage residents to put the fire out as soon as they’re finished with it to avoid unnecessary smoke, pollution, and carbon monoxide (Source: Brighton & Hove City Council). 

If you want to have a fire in your garden, you should consider doing the following beforehand (sources: East Suffolk Council, Norwich City Council): 

• Check if your neighbours are sitting in their gardens or have washing drying outside. 
  
• Inform your neighbours that you plan to have a fire in your garden and check if this is okay with them. 
  
• Plan to have the fire when windy conditions don’t exacerbate the smoke and disturb your neighbours. Your fire shouldn’t prevent your neighbours from enjoying their gardens or opening their windows. 
  
• Gather all the materials you want to burn so that your fire can last for a limited time.
   
• Have a fire extinguisher, a bucket of water, or hosepipe close by. 
  
• Check on your local council’s website to see if you fall under a smoke control area. 

What Can You Burn in Your Garden in the UK?

I’ve explained that you’re allowed to have a fire in your garden but should be mindful of your neighbours. So, you’ve decided to go ahead – but what can you actually burn in your garden? 

You can burn dry, untreated wood, organic garden waste, paper products, and anything else that won’t cause excessive smoke pollution or harm other people’s health. 

I’ll explain more about what you can burn in your garden next: 

Dry and Untreated Wood

You can burn dry wood that hasn’t been treated with chemicals, painted, or varnished. Pallets are the most typical thing I can think of that you shouldn’t burn, as they’re heavily treated.

If you burn damp wood, it will create a lot of smoke and unnecessarily pollute the area around you. Burning wood that’s been treated with chemicals, paint, or varnish can also create toxic fumes, creating a health hazard to humans and pets. We’ve got three cats and keep them well away from any fire or smoke.

Organic Garden Waste

UK councils allow residents to burn garden waste, including: 

• Dry leaves 
• Plant cuttings 
• Stems 

However, if you often have a large amount of garden waste that you want to get rid of, it’s better to pay the annual fee for garden waste collection. 

Your local council will dispose of your garden waste responsibly, donate it to farmers, or compost it (source: UK Government). 

Paper Products

You can burn paper products (like newspapers and magazines) in your garden, but they should be dry so that they don’t create a lot of smoke (source: One Education). 

If you have papers you want to get rid of, placing them in your recycling bin is a better option as the council will recycle them for you. 

Some people like to burn confidential documents so they don’t end up in the wrong hands. I used to do this – however, you should consider shredding the documents and recycling them. 

A shredder has pretty much replaced the burning I used to do – they’re cheap and effective these days, like this one on Amazon.

Are There Certain Times Big Garden Bonfires Are Allowed? 

If you’re planning on having a bonfire any time other than November 5th, it’s good to know if they’re allowed on your scheduled date. So, are there certain times that garden bonfires are permitted? 

There aren’t certain times when bonfires are allowed, and the law states that you may have one whenever you like. However, you should be careful that your bonfire’s smoke doesn’t temporarily cause local air pollution problems. 

According to the statutory nuisance provisions of the Environmental Protection Act of 1990, you could receive a fixed penalty notice if your bonfire causes a nuisance to your neighbours (source: UK Legislation National Archives).

However, for the sake of goodwill, councils encourage people to chat to their neighbours and inform them that they’re causing smoke problems before reporting them. 

Instead of burning garden waste on your bonfire, consider composting it as this is more environmentally friendly (source: UK Government, East Devon District Council). 

All in all, councils throughout the country allow controlled fires as long as they don’t disturb your neighbours or create too much pollution. Of course, on bonfire night, everyone expects fires in gardens and it’s not such a big deal… but I thought I’d write about all the other times you might want to have a fire.

I hope you found this guide on what you can and cannot burn in your garden useful!

After scrubbing the bird poo off the drive one too many times, I’ve researched how to stop them from sitting there in the first place.

Here are seven ways to stop birds from sitting on your TV aerial: 

1. Install a scarecrow.
2. Use bird spikes.
3. The cable tie method.
4. Attach reflective scare rods.
5. Cover the TV aerial with netting.
6. Use wind chimes. 
7. Apply bird-repellent gel to your aerial.

I’ll discuss these ways of deterring birds in more detail. Hopefully one of these works for you, and helps to keep your TV aerial bird-free and clean.

1. Install a Scarecrow

They’re not just for fields! Scarecrows were first invented hundreds of years ago to deter crows from eating seeds and fruit on farms. The reason they’re still around is because they’re still a highly effective method of preventing birds from coming to the area, and you can install one near your TV aerial. 

Below are some examples of scarecrows that you could use: 

Large bird kite. Attaching a large bird kite to your roof and close to your TV aerial fools smaller birds into thinking there’s a bird of prey.

The Laptony Bird Scarer Flying Kite from Amazon UK looks incredibly realistic and has reflective eyes, which is scary for birds. You’ve probably seen them work against seagulls in some coastal towns:

Cat statue. Most suburban birds understand the risks of cats, and a cat statue can help deter them. We have three cats, but they don’t go near the roof (that we know of!).

The Garden Mile Black Powder Coated Black Cat from Amazon UK comes in a three-pack and you can attach it to your roof next to the aerial. You’ve probably seen these around – pubs tend to use them a lot.

Fake snake. Birds are also scared of snakes, and you can position a realistic-looking toy snake close to your aerial to deter the birds. 

Homemade scarecrow. If you love craft projects, you could create a homemade scarecrow from random fabric scraps, buttons, and other craft materials you have lying around the home. 

Fake bird of prey. Owls and hawks hunt smaller birds, and installing an artificial bird of prey near your TV aerial would do an excellent job of keeping them away.   

Garden balls. Garden balls are inflatable balls that resemble a predator’s eyes. You can tie them to your TV aerial to scare the birds away. De-Bird Repellent Scary Eye Balloons from Amazon UK are tear-resistant, weatherproof, and come in a three-pack to use in various places.  

Installing a scarecrow is a wonderfully simple method of deterring birds. The only drawback is that it may prevent smaller and more desirable birds from coming into your garden (source: RSPB) so it’s a toss-up between wanting songbirds to visit, and preventing bigger birds making a mess.

2. Use Bird Spikes

Bird spikes are also called pigeon spikes or anti-roosting spikes and consist of a series of sharp metal needles that make it impossible for a bird to perch. They don’t actually land on them – they just avoid them.

You can install them on your TV aerial or roof, and they aren’t expensive. The LINZI Stainless Steel Bird Spikes for Pigeons from Amazon UK is an excellent example. It’s easy to install, and it will last for ages due to its stainless steel composition. (source: Pigeon Control Resource Centre)

I’d recommend getting a qualified person to fit them rather than climbing around on the roof yourself, though.

3. The Cable Tie Method

Don’t feel like spending a lot of money on preventing birds from making themselves at home on your TV aerial? If so, you might want to try the cable tie method. 

You’ll need a large pack of cable ties and some time – you will have to cover your entire TV aerial with cable ties to make it an uncomfortable place for birds. A bit like decorating a Christmas tree.

You can get a pack of 100 high-quality cable ties online or at a DIY store for less than £10, making it a cost-effective way to keep your TV aerial free of birds. 

4. Attach Reflective Scare Rods

Birds are generally afraid of shiny and reflective objects (with perhaps the exception of magpies). Although scientists don’t fully understand this, they believe it’s because birds fear their own reflections, and shiny or reflective things confuse them.  

With this in mind, a reflective scare rod can effectively deter birds from perching on your TV aerial. Reflective spiral rods are made from reflective plastic or metal, are spiral-shaped, and twirl around in the wind. 

CGSGDK Bird Scare Devices from Amazon UK come in a pack of 40, allowing you to attach one on each of your aerial bars. Costing less than £20, you can use the remaining spiral rods in your garden, patio, or anywhere else you want to keep bird-free. 

If you have many old CDs lying around, you could take the opportunity to reuse them. All you’ll need is some string to create a reflective hanging object. 

Alternatively, you could attach reflective tape to the TV aerial’s bars. Choose waterproof reflective tape to withstand rain and other weather elements if you go for this option. (source: Pests.org)

5. Cover the TV Aerial With Netting

Covering your TV aerial with netting will prevent birds from perching on it. Although they’ll probably still be able to sit in the netting, they won’t be able to nest and make a mess near your aerial. 

Bird netting is inexpensive, and you can buy it in rolls. KINGLAKE Green Garden Netting from Amazon UK comes in a 4m x 10m (13ft x 32.8ft) roll and is UV-resistant.

You can use it to cover your TV aerial by nailing or glueing it down, and you can use the remaining netting to protect your vegetable garden or bedding plants. (source: Oregon State University Extension Service)

6. Use Wind Chimes

Birds are small and sensitive creatures, and they shy away from the sound of wind chimes. Tying some wind chimes to your TV aerial can deter birds, but they may not be effective on a still and windless day. 

If you want to use wind chimes, consider using them together with another method, such as reflective tape or a reflective scare rod. 

This also depends on how much YOU like wind chimes. They can get loud in a breeze!

7. Apply Bird-Repellent Gel

Bird-repellent gel creates a slippery surface that birds won’t easily perch on or turn into a nesting place. 

After applying the gel, it lasts for up to two years, and since it’s transparent, it won’t stain your aerial or roof. 

Bird-X 54-1 Proof Bird Repellent Gel from Amazon UK comes in a 10 oz (284g) tube and is non-toxic. You apply it with a caulking gun, and you can easily remove it to apply more, usually after two years.

Overall, these are the best ways to stop birds from sitting on your TV aerial. I hope that you’ll find one or more of them practical for you, regardless of your budget and time availability. In the end, we used the fake cat -just because it was quiet, permanent, and we love cats – but what works for us might not work for you. Good luck!

Here are the different ways you can report someone driving without a licence in the UK:

1. Call the police on 101.
2. Contact Crimestoppers UK.
3. Message the police via 18001 101.

In the rest of this article, I’ll discuss the steps you can take to report someone driving without a licence in greater detail. I’ll also cover whether you can report it anonymously and the penalties associated with driving without a licence in the UK. Let’s get into it.

Call the Police on 101

Talking to the police is the best way to report someone driving without a licence in the UK. The key here is to make sure you call 101 and not 999. 

101 is the police’s non-emergency line, while 999 is strictly for emergencies and should never be dialled for anything less. Driving without a licence may be a crime, but it doesn’t amount to an emergency unless someone is already injured as a result of it.

Dialling the non-emergency number helps keep the emergency line available for those who really need it. So by choosing the right communication channel, you might help save someone from immediate danger by allowing their emergency call to go through.

If you’d rather not call, you can fill out this online form. It’ll narrow the report down to local police agencies that can directly handle the query.

When you establish contact, the police will ask you to provide the following information:

• In-depth information about the driver. This includes licence plate number and specifics about the vehicle, such as make and model. 
  
• The location of the offence. This means telling them which motorway you saw them driving on or letting them know their address if the person lives near you.
  
• Any other information you think will help their investigation. You may need to disclose your relationship to the driver and how you know they are driving without a licence.

You can ask for your call to be anonymous, meaning they won’t let the driver know you contacted them. However, they will likely keep your details on record for the purposes of the investigation, and that includes your name and contact number in case they need to get in touch with you (source: NI Direct Government Services).

Contact Crimestoppers UK

Crimestoppers is a charity in the UK that is dedicated to ending crime. They are entirely independent of the police, but they often work together to end all sorts of crimes, from minor offences to serious felonies (source: Crimestoppers UK).

Reporting to Crimestoppers is a relatively simple process. You can call their hotline and discuss the issue with complete anonymity, meaning your contact details and identity will not be tracked or kept in their records.

Everything you tell Crimestoppers is completely confidential, so rest assured that if you decide to contact them, the driver in question won’t know it was you who reported them (source: Crimestoppers UK).

Additionally, they often reward people for giving information about criminals. However, this is usually only if the crime is substantial, such as fraud or violence.

If you would like to report someone driving without a licence to Crimestoppers, fill out their anonymous form online or call 0800 555 111 to speak to one of their reps.

Caveat: Unless the driver is driving very dangerously without a licence, they may advise you to speak to the police. In this instance, you can ask them to pass on the information on your behalf to keep you out of the loop.

Generally speaking, it’s advisable to contact the police instead of Crimestoppers because:

• The police can handle the report directly, and the process will likely be much faster.
  
• Crimestoppers usually take on more significant matters, so your local police department is usually the better choice to report someone driving without a licence.

Message the Police Via 18001 101

The 18001 101 is the equivalent of 101, except it involves texting instead of calling. This non-emergency SMS service is primarily geared toward individuals with speech and hearing impairments. It works across all mobile networks and can be used to report crimes such as:

• Driving without a licence.
• Car theft.
• Minor traffic accidents.
• Property damage or theft, and more (Source: Durham Police).

Why Is It Important To Report Someone Driving Without a Licence in the UK?

Driving in the UK is usually a safe experience since numerous regulations prevent poor driving and prescribe multiple penalties for breaking the rules. Still, encountering an individual driving without a licence isn’t uncommon. While you’re under no legal obligation to report such individuals, doing so goes a long way to make our roads safer.

It’s important to report someone driving without a licence in the UK because it prevents accidents from occurring. It is a serious offence to drive without a licence, and it could end badly for pedestrians and other drivers. Reporting the driver will help keep the roads safe for everyone.

Before being able to drive in the UK, you must have acquired the correct licence for the type of vehicle you drive. This means that you can’t drive a lorry or bus if you only have a car licence, and you shouldn’t drive a car if you only have a motorcycle licence. It’s even worse if you have no licence at all (source: Greater Manchester Police).

Once you have reported them, the police will conduct an investigation to get the driver off the road. If the culprit cannot produce a valid driver’s licence for their vehicle, along with credible insurance and a recent MOT, the police will act accordingly (source: Gov.uk).

What Are the Penalties for Driving Without a Licence in the UK?

The penalties for driving without a licence in the UK include a hefty fine, points on your future licence, and possible jail time. You could even get banned from driving for up to a year. The Road Traffic Act stipulates that it is illegal to drive without a registered licence.

You could end up with up to 6 points on your licence once you acquire one, which means you’re halfway to being banned from driving in the UK altogether (source: Gov.uk).

And if you kill someone driving without a licence, you will inevitably go to jail. You may also incur a more severe sentence since you shouldn’t have been operating a car in the first place.

Even if you are a learner, you cannot drive alone in a car without a registered instructor who has had their licence for a few years. Driving alone on a provisional licence is likely to lead to a fine of up to £1,000 (source: JMW).

Considering all this, it’s not worth it to drive without a licence in the UK. If you know someone who is, you are within your rights to report them, and doing so keeps Britain’s roads safer overall. Get in touch with Crimestoppers to ask about the process, or get in touch with the police for the formal procedure.

Although many of these “freedoms” have been pushed to earlier years, your 21st birthday still comes with quite a few perks, especially if you’re living in the UK.

Here are some things you can do at age 21 in the UK:

1. Adopt a child.
2. Hold a license to drive larger vehicles.
3. Attend 21+ functions, events, and clubs.
4. Supervise a learner driver.
5. Become an Uber driver.
6. Hold a transport pilot license.

Of course, you can do many other things as a 21-year-old in the United Kingdom, but this article covers specific actions you can legally do under UK law. Read on to learn how to make the best of turning 21 in the United Kingdom.

1. Adopt a Child

United Kingdom legislation is clear on who can be responsible for a child and at what age they can qualify as a legal guardian or act as a legal caretaker. The law states explicitly in the Children Act of 1989 that only adults of 18 years and older can take responsibility for their children (source: The National Archives).

However, adopting a child is another matter entirely. The Adoption and Children Act of 2002 details specific provisions for who and under what conditions one can adopt a child (source: The National Archives). 

In particular, Part 1, section 51 of the Act states that single 21-year-olds can adopt kids (source: The National Archives).

Adopting in the UK is easy, and you can apply to be a parent through an adoption agency. The Consortium Of Voluntary Adoption Agencies (CVAA) has a directory to help you find agencies in your area. (source: CVAA Directory)

The process is pretty rigorous, and it usually takes six months before the state completes all the required examinations to ensure you are fit as a legal guardian. Adopting is free, but you might run into a few legal costs (source: Metro). 

There are a few provisions to the Adoption and Children Act of 2002, but you can adopt a child as a couple, provided that both of you are at least 21 years old (source: The National Archives).

2. Hold a License To Drive Larger Vehicles

You can apply to get a provisional driving license in the United Kingdom when you are 15 years and 9 months old. The law states that you can only drive invalid carriages and mopeds when you turn 16. 

However, you can drive motor bicycles, Agricultural or forestry tractors, and small vehicles when you turn 17. (source: The National Archives)

18-year-olds can drive good medium-sized vehicles in the United Kingdom, but you can drive every other kind of vehicle when you turn 21, according to the Road Traffic Act 1988. (source: The National Archives)

That means you can legally drive heavy-duty trucks, passenger buses, and other Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) as a 21-year-old in the United Kingdom.

There are a few provisions to this, and you need the state’s approval to get a license. However, you can easily apply for a special Class C driving license by joining a driver’s training scheme. (source: Gov.UK)

3. Attend 21+ Functions, Events, and Clubs

You can drink, sell and buy alcohol when you turn 18 in the United Kingdom, and you can legally enter most age-restricted venues in the country. However, several parties and clubs still require that attendees be at least 21 years to participate.

That means you can finally join those age-restricted gentlemen’s clubs and private events. 

Essentially, there are no functions, events, or clubs in the United Kingdom that can bar you from entry based on age when you turn 21.

4. Supervise a Learner Driver

In addition to driving any class of motor vehicle in the United Kingdom, turning 21 gives you the right to supervise other drivers and learner drivers all over the country. (source: Gov.UK) This right means that you can serve as the “guardian-in-vehicle” for minors and learner drivers. 

However, that also means you become the individual accountable for everyone in the vehicle.

You must have had a driving license for at least three years before you can qualify as a supervisor. There is no test to become one, and the United Kingdom issues no special permits to individuals interested in supervising learner drivers.

The only other requirement is that you must be licensed to drive whatever motor vehicle the learner driver is operating. For example, you must be authorized to drive a tractor if you want to supervise a learner driver that’s driving one.

Since you can supervise learner drivers, you can also apply to become a driving instructor. However, becoming a driving instructor requires a special license.

You can get started with the process by logging on to the Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency website and following the prompts. The application process typically takes approximately 30 minutes to complete and costs £140 (source: Gov.UK).

5. Become an Uber Driver

Uber drivers serve as tour guides and chaperones in many countries worldwide, and you can become one as long as you’re a legal resident in a country. (source: Uber) Although you only need to be at least 18 years and have a driver’s license to be an Uber driver in other countries, Uber drivers in the UK must be at least 21 years old.

Here’s how to become an Uber driver in the UK:

1. Sign up online. Log on to the Uber website to get started. Of course, you’ll also need an email address and an internet-enabled device to sign up.
   
2. Get a private hire license. The private hire license enables you to legally use your car for private hire activities, including Uber. You can get a private hire license through Uber here.
   
3. Upload the required documents to the Uber platform. You’ll need to provide a driver profile photo, a bank statement, private hire insurance, and a valid UK driver’s license to proceed.
   
4. Get yourself a car. Uber has a couple of vehicle requirements in the UK, but their standards align with UK vehicle standards. Therefore, if it’s good for you and the UK, it’s suitable for Uber.
   
5. Complete the Uber virtual onboarding course. The course gives a rundown of the Uber experience and helps familiarize new Uber drivers with the tools of the trade. You can check out the course on the eduMe.
   
6. Activate your Uber account and start diving. You can now start driving and earning.

Being an Uber driver is a great way to make extra money on the side while working a regular job.

6. Hold a Transport Pilot License

Another benefit of turning 21 in the United Kingdom is that it gives you the right to hold special flying permits after completing the requirements for the license. 

An Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) is a license for individuals interested in becoming commercial pilots. ATPL training is rigorous and only available for citizens at least 21 years old. (source: UK Civil Aviation Authority)

The training lasts for approximately 18 months, and you’ll need a Class 1 Medical certificate to get started. (source: UK Civil Aviation Authority) You’ll also need between £70,000 and £120,000 to pay for training and certification costs.

Although the ATPL training can be pretty demanding, it’s an excellent way to become a certified pilot and get into a profitable career path early in your life.

Is the Age of Majority 18 or 21 in the UK? Why?

The Age of Majority traditionally had several meanings in the UK. It was seen as the legal adult age and was considered the age of responsibility and when a child becomes an adult.

Although a few customs concerning the age of the majority have changed in recent years, the age is still an essential milestone in the life of individuals. (source: Historic UK)

The age of the majority in the UK is 18. Initially, it was 21 but was reduced in 1969 after the Family Law Reform Act was passed in 1969. (source: The National Archives) The government decided that 18 should be the age of majority after the Second World War since the minimum fighting age was already 18.

You can partake in most age-restricted activities when you reach the age of majority, and turning 18 in the United Kingdom opens you up to a host of opportunities. However, there’s a lot more 21 has to offer, as seen in this article.

Choosing a monocular for bird watching can be difficult. With all the technical jargon that you may not understand unless you’re well versed in the world of telescopes, it can be hard to know what to look for. That’s why I’ve put together this guide detailing the 3 best monoculars for bird watching on the market. 

I’ve also answered some commonly asked questions about monoculars. To discover more, read on! 

Best Compact Option

Opticron 30440 BGA 8×42 Monocular

This monocular is the most compact, meaning that you can just pop it in your pocket or bag and take it wherever you need it. At just 9.9oz and measuring at 13.72 x 4.57 x 4.32 cm, you don’t have to worry about it taking up valuable space when heading out bird watching. 

It’s available in many lens diameters, so you can choose which magnification you prefer. It’s powered by 1 AA battery, so you don’t have to worry about running out of power as you can keep a spare on you without taking up space. 

This compact monocular for bird watching is waterproof up to 5m, meaning if you get caught in a typical UK rainstorm then you can still use it to see the wildlife. It also comes with a carry case and a lanyard, as well as caps for the main objective and an eyepiece to keep it safe whilst you’re out and about. 

One thing I love about this waterproof monocular for bird watching is that it’s built with glasses wearers in mind! A rare find, the eyepiece has 2 modes, one for glasses wearers and one for those who don’t wear them. 

Reviewers rave about the high-quality image and focus of this compact monocular, you can really get up close and personal with the wildlife, from a safe distance of course!

Pros:

• Compact and light
• 8 options to choose from
• Powered by 1 AA battery
• Waterproof
• Carry case and lanyard included
• Built with glasses wearers in mind! 

Cons:

• Some reviewers have commented that the focus ring is stiff initially, but this loosens with use

Best Budget Option

DFlamepower 10×42 HD Monocular

It can be hard to find a budget monocular without compromising on quality, but I think this monocular does an impressive job. This monocular for bird watching is made of rubber making it fairly durable, so you won’t have to worry about it getting broken by being loose in your bag on a hike. 

There’s an anti-drop hand strap to place around your wrist when holding the monocular, with rubber armour that makes it easier to hold within your hand.  It also comes with a microfibre cleaning cloth for the lens and a carrying bag. Waterproof enough to use in the rain, with dual focus capabilities suitable for glasses wearers too. 

The lens is coated with a green film and Bak-4 prisms, which makes your view brighter and clearer. It also has a focus wheel that you can easily turn with one hand, which allows you to see things up to 1000 yards away. 

Reviewers have commented on the excellent quality of this monocular, despite its affordable price point!

Pros:

• Budget-friendly
• Rubber armour
• Anti-drop hand strap
• Waterproof
• Dual focus for glasses wearers

Cons:

• Doesn’t quite compare to higher-end products

Best High-End Option

Bushnell 191142 Legend Ultra HD Monocular

The Bushnell 191143 Legend is the best high-end option on the market. It’s not the smallest or lightest option, but it’s still portable. However, with 10 x magnification power, it’s hard to complain. ED Prime glass, PC-3 Phase-Coated prisms and fully multi-coated optics ensure that you get bright and clear views that are of unrivalled quality.

Not only is this monocular waterproof, but it’s fog proof too meaning you can use it in any weather condition without your view being affected. It works well in lower light conditions, as it transmits plenty of light through the objective lens.

The eyecups are adjustable so that you can be comfortable when holding them against your eye for longer periods of time. The front lens cap is removable but is also on a hinge. This means that it can be used as a sunshield on those brighter days when the sun may affect your view. 

One of the things that I love about this monocular is that you can easily attach it to a tripod with its built-in picca rail. This gives you more stability to view the wildlife if you know that you’ll be staying in one place for a length of time. 

All reviewers have commented on the excellent clarity that’s even better than expected. 

Pros:

• Extremely impressive optics
• Waterproof and fog proof
• Adjustable eyecups
• Hinged front lens
• Easily attach to multiple accessories

Cons:

• Not the lightest or smallest of monoculars
• No batteries included

Monocular vs Binoculars: Which Should I Use?

Monoculars and binoculars are both powerful magnification tools that can help you spot wildlife and beautiful birds from a long distance away. 

Monoculars are much more lightweight and compact, making it easier to take them on outdoor trips with you. If you’re hiking to a sightseeing spot, you need to make sure that you save valuable backpack space for water, snacks and anything you may need in case of emergency.

This means that monoculars are much easier to take with you as they don’t take up much space and some are even small enough to keep in your pocket or attach to a belt loop! Despite their small size, monoculars can have up to a huge 10 x magnification, making them a powerful tool for bird watching. 

However, with a monocular instead of binoculars, you can only use one eye. Although this may not be a problem for many, some people may prefer to get the whole picture using both eyes for a more immersive experience.

Although, I’ve found that if you’re a glasses wearer like myself where each eye is at a different prescription, I actually prefer just using one eye. 

A monocular can also be more comfortable to hold than traditional binoculars, it also leaves one hand free to note down your sightings or take a sip of a hot beverage. 

When it comes to birdwatching, a monocular is a more popular choice with enthusiasts. However, if you’re looking at a general view and just taking in the scenery, binoculars will offer the wider picture. 

How Far Can A Monocular See?

Monoculars tend to have a magnification power between 6x and 10x,  higher optical magnification will allow you to see further into the distance. 

Monoculars will often have their magnification option listed within the product specification. When looking at this, you will see 2 numbers. The first number is the magnification and the second is the lens size. The bigger the lens size, the wider the view available.

For example, a specification of 8×25 will mean that the monocular has 8 x magnification with an eyepiece lens size of 25mm. This means that the object in view will appear 8 times larger than it would with your naked eye. 

The distance you can see will depend on the quality of the bird-watching monocular that you choose. On average, monoculars can see around 5 miles into the distance, but for specifics check the specification of the product. 

I hope that after reading this guide, you’ve found all the information you’re looking for and can begin your journey to spotting some fantastic birds! 

I got maddened by how difficult it is, so researched lots of ways on how you can contact the DVLA for your request.

I have learned a LOT about the fascinating and somewhat backward world of motor vehicle paperwork, including a ‘secret’ page the DVLA has that gets updated weekly, and it shows where you are in the application queue! (scroll down to my ‘tips to ease the frustration’ for that) – but I hope there are other things in this article that can help you out, too.

When MUST you contact the DVLA?

If you’re anything like me, then it can be confusing to know when you need to contact the DVLA. 

These reasons can include:

• Informing the DVLA of a medical condition
• Failing an eye test
• Vehicle tax or a statutory off road notifications (SORN)
• Number plates and log books
•  Passing your driving test
• Getting rid of your car
• If you’ve sold, bought or transferred a vehicle

You can also contact the DVLA for general enquiries or complaints. 

How do I notify the DVLA that I’ve scrapped my car?

If you decide to scrap your car, you must inform the DVLA that you have done so. If you do not inform the DVLA, then you may receive large fines. The DVLA will assume that you are still driving the car as you have not notified them otherwise.

This means you could get a fine and ticket for driving the vehicle with no tax. You can also get fined £1000 for not updating your vehicle’s details. 

You can notify the DVLA about scrapping your car in a few ways. 

Via website

The easiest way to contact the DVLA about scrapping your car if you have internet access is via their website. In order to do this, you need the name and address of the scrapyard, the vehicle registration number and the 11 digit vehicle reference from the latest log book (V5C). 

Use the scrapyard or insurance company’s name as the trader you sold the vehicle to, even if you did not get any money for doing so. 

By post

Contacting the DVLA by post is still a viable option, especially for those who do not have great internet access. 

All you have to do is fill out section 4 of your logbook and post it to the DVLA. If your car was manufactured before April 2019, fill out section 9. 

The address is:

DVLA
Swansea
SA99 1BA

The DVLA should notify you with a confirmation letter within 4 weeks.

What if I don’t have my logbook?

It’s not uncommon to misplace or automatically destroy your logbook once your car has been scrapped. Don’t panic if you’ve done this, you can still notify the DVLA. 

If you have the V5C written down, simply contact the DVLA via their website. If you don’t, write a letter to the DVLA at the address above and inform them that you have scrapped your car, but do not have the logbook. You must include your full name, address along with the name, address and VAT number of the scrapyard. 

How do I phone the DVLA?

There are multiple phone numbers for the DVLA, each for different departments. For the quickest response time, call the relevant number during their business hours. 

Driving Licence Enquiries

Phone Number: 0300 790 6801

Opening Hours: Mon to Fri – 8 am to 7 pm, Sat – 8 am to 2 pm

To enquire about the status of your driving licence application, order a new licence or change your name and address, call this number. 

Driving and Medical Issues

Phone Number: 0300 790 6806

Opening Hours: Mon to Fri – 8:30 am to 5:30 pm, Sat – 8 am to 1 pm

Call this number to inform the DVLA about a medical condition or disability that can affect your driving ability. You can also call to reapply for a driving licence if you’ve had one taken away due to said medical issue. 

Vehicle Tax, Registration or SORN

Phone Number: 0300 790 6802

Opening Hours: Mon to Fri – 8 am to 7 pm, Sat – 8 am to 2 pm

For help with paying and checking your vehicle tax and changing the tax class of your vehicle, call this number. You can also register and request a vehicle logbook (V5C) and enquire about personalised number plates and importing and exporting vehicles. 

If you wish to take your vehicle off the road so it’s not taxed, you’ll need to make a Statutory Off Road Notification which can be done via this number too 

Information about Driving Records

Phone Number: 0300 083 0013

Opening Hours: Mon to Fri – 8 am to 7 pm, Sat – 8 am to 2 pm

To find out which vehicles you can drive, the number of points on your licence or any driving disqualifications and more about your record, call this number. If you want to share your record with a third party, such as a car rental service, call to create a shareable check code. 

Welsh Language Enquiries

Phone Number: 0300 790 6819

Opening Hours: Mon to Fri – 8 am to 7 pm, Sat – 8 am to 2 pm

If you speak Welsh and need assistance from the DVLA, then call this number for help relating to any department. 

Are DVLA Numbers Free to Phone?

It is not free of charge to call the DVLA. The 0300 numbers are charged at around 9p a minute from landlines and 55p a minute from mobiles. This is why it’s often still better to write to them, slow as it is.

Can I talk to a real person at the DVLA?

A lot of the DVLA phone lines are automated, but to get through to a real person all you have to do is follow the automated steps. Listen to the automated voice and press the numbers on the keypad related to your enquiry, once you have done that you will be put through to a real person to speak with. 

The phone lines tend to have long waiting lines, so be prepared to be put on hold before you reach someone. 

Can I email the DVLA?

There is no specific email address for the DVLA, to contact them via email you must head to the government website and answer the questions related to your enquiry. You can contact them about vehicle, driver and welsh enquiries. 

Once you have completed all the answers, you will have an option to fill in your information. Enter your full name, date of birth, address, email address and vehicle details. Then, it will give you an option to enter a question or concern along with any relevant attachments.

Once you’ve finished, click the green submit button. This will be sent to the DVLA and they will aim to get back to you via the email address you put in as soon as possible. 

You will receive a confirmation email immediately. The response time can vary depending on your message, it can take several weeks. Remember to check your spam folder if you haven’t heard anything in a while! 

Writing to the DVLA: What’s their address?

There are a few addresses for the DVLA, all of them located in Swansea. The address will be different depending on what your enquiry entails. 

For vehicle enquiries

For assistance with vehicle taxes, vehicle registrations and logbooks. You can also make a Statutory Off Road Notification via this address. 

Address:

Vehicle Customer Services
DVLA
Swansea
SA99 1AR

For driving enquiries:

For help with your driving licence application, making changes to your licence or replacing one that’s been lost.

Address:

Drivers Customer Services
Correspondence Team
DVLA
Swansea
SA6 7JL

For medical enquiries:

To update the DVLA on any medical conditions or disabilities that may affect your driving ability, appeal a decision on revoking your licence or reapply for a licence.

Address:

Drivers’ Medical Enquiries
DVLA 
Swansea
SA99 1TU

For complaints:

If you are unhappy with the service you have received and have already reached out to the relevant department for assistance, you can make a formal complaint. Include all the details and any correspondence you have already had. 

Address:

Complaints Team
DVLA
Swansea
SA6 7JL

It can take up to several weeks to hear back from someone via post, depending on the difficulty of your request. If you are looking for a faster response time, we recommend emailing or ringing the DVLA.

Is DVLA Swansea Freepost?

I thought I’d better answer this at the same time, since posting things is still one of the best options.

No, the DVLA Swansea address is not a Freepost address. You need a stamp if you send anything to them. Always put stamps on or pay the correct postage for your letter or else you’ll sadly delay things even more! Their address looks like a Freepost one, but it’s not.

Can You Visit DVLA Swansea in Person?

Recently I had to get a replacement V5 document from the DVLA. I bought a second-hand car that didn’t have the V5, so the only way I could get one is to request it from DVLA in Swansea. Their estimated time on this (at the time of writing) was six weeks.

We live in the West Country and it’s not that far to drive to Swansea. Therefore we wanted to know if you could go there in person to the DVLA’s actual office address and make the process faster.

Unfortunately, you can’t visit the DVLA in person in Swansea. They don’t have a “customer service” desk. The best thing they can do is put your letter in their internal mail, but then it would just be treated the same as if you’d posted it to them, so you’re not saving yourself any time.

If you want anything doing these days with licenses V5 or any other similar paperwork you’re going to have to do it digitally and it usually goes through Swansea. Frequently there are no other options.

Is There a DVLA Office Near Me?

I ought to mention that DVLA no longer has the little local offices that they used to have throughout the country. These were all closed down by the government in 2013.

This was my first thought because I’d heard that there used to be offices for the DVLA nationwide… But nope – there are no local walk-in services any more.

How do I get a DVLA check code?

If you need to share your driving record with a third party, you can contact the DVLA for a shareable check code. The easiest way to do this is online via the government website. You can also use this service to check your driving record, as mentioned above. 

In order to complete this service and receive your code, you will need:

• Your driving licence number
• Your national insurance number
• The postcode on your driving licence

Once you receive your code, it is valid for 21 days. 

Other ways to get a check code

Applying online is not the only way to receive this code. There are multiple ways to do so. 

Via GOV.uk Verify

To access your driving record or receive your code, apply via GOV.uk Verify.

Via phone

Contact the department of driving records via telephone – 0300 083 0013.

Via post

Send a request form or a letter including the following information.

• Full name
• Address
• Date of birth
• Driving licence number

Address:

DACT Team
DVLA
Swansea
SA99 1AJ

Tips to Ease the Frustration of Waiting for the DVLA

If you’ve got this far, you’ll probably be feeling as frustrated as I did when I learned that there are very few ways to effectively contact the DVLA without waiting for a long time.

When researching this article, though, I found out a couple of things that might make the weight more bearable or at least get an idea of where you are in the queue.

1. Check Your Place in the Paperwork Queue

This one saved me a lot of bother when I was thinking of ringing them to chase up my application.

What many people don’t know is that on the official government website, the DVLA has a page that they constantly update saying which date they are dealing with at the moment. You can find it here.

Scroll down to “Processing Dates for Paper Applications” and you’ll see what they’re dealing with this week.

Therefore if you know which date you posted your documents you can see how far away they are dealing with yours. This helped me a lot because I knew I didn’t have to waste time chasing something that wasn’t even remotely near the front of the queue!

2. Chase Them if It’s Been 6+ Weeks

What is often hidden in the small print that you are entitled to chase DVLA if you haven’t heard anything back from them after 6 weeks – they hide this down at the bottom of their contact details but it is there!

You can use the link above to see if it’s been more than six weeks since your documents entered the queue, too.

3. Check if You Actually Need to Hear Back In Order to Drive

Many people don’t realise that you don’t need to hear back from the DVLA to continue using your car in certain situations. Here’s the official DVLA leaflet for all the scenarios where you can continue driving, even if your application is with them.

I hope this has helped you in the impatient wait to hear back from the DVLA. Unfortunately, it’s one of those situations where you can’t move things along, as you can with so many other businesses these days. Be patient, and good luck!

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

If you’re suffering with nail fungus, know you’re not alone. It’s believed that one in four people are living with some form of fungal infection, but there are plenty of at-home remedies available without a doctor’s visit. Keep reading to find out which are the best of the bunch.

Source: British Skin Foundation

1. Best Reviewed: Scholl Fungal Nail Treatment

With over 15,000 reviews on Amazon.co.uk – 80% of which are four stars or above – this Scholl fungal treatment is the top choice for an at-home remedy. 

Many reviewers are happy with both the detailed instructions and how the product works. Plus, where many such treatments claim to solve this issue fast, Scholl clarifies that the process takes time, so you won’t be disappointed if you see no changes after a couple of weeks.

One of the necessary treatments for nail fungus is to gently file the nail surface away so the medicine can reach the infected area. This Scholl device provides disposable files for weekly use, so you don’t need to buy additional tools. Disposing of the files is crucial; otherwise, you’ll just spread the fungal infection further. 

Good to Know

If your nail is especially thick, it’s more than likely that you’ll need to buy another pack to see the best results. Also, if you have more than one infected nail, you’ll need to buy a pack for each. I had to do this because a nail infection on my big toe spread to three other toes.

Something that a few customers commented on was the packaging and overly complicated plastic case. Some even said they couldn’t get the files out. In addition, a few reviews suggested it’s difficult to understand how and where the product comes out. 

But overall, this is highly recommended, and the majority of reviewers reported improvements after use. Not only that, but it’s very affordable and cheaper than some of the other lesser reviewed products on the market.

2. On a Budget: THERA HEALTHCARE Premium Fungal Nail Destroyer

Even though this product (from Amazon.co.uk) costs a little more than the one above, it comes in a 50ml bottle. That’s huge compared to some other treatments, which are under 10ml.

With that in mind, this would work on multiple nails without you needing to purchase extra bottles. 

Between the almond, melaleuca leaf (tea tree), jojoba seed, and argon seed oils, this topical treatment is natural, effective, and very hydrating. Here’s how they work:

• Sweet almond oil contains B vitamins that will fight the infection.
• Tea tree is known for its antiseptic and antifungal properties. 
• Jojoba seed oil works as an anti-inflammatory.
• Argon seed oil is very hydrating and will help to maintain the health of the nail and cuticles.

Something many reviewers commented on was the ease of use, thanks to the brush provided. Since many of these products are applied with a dropper, having a small brush will ensure the treatment covers the whole area without spilling. 

Just remember to wash the brush thoroughly after every use. 

Good to Know

Although this product claims you’ll see results in two to four weeks, it also suggests that it needs to be used for three to six months. 

Not only that, but you need to apply this three times per day without fail. That could be an issue if you have to work since it’s not super convenient to soak your toes at the office. 

3. For Severe Cases: Imperial Feet Store Severe Fungal Nail Treatment

Some cases of nail fungus are worse than others. It could be that you often wear tight shoes or work in a warm, moist environment, such as a gym or pool. Either way, for thicker, more serious cases, you’ll need something a little stronger. 

This product from Imperial Feet Store on Amazon.co.uk has over 6,500 reviews, and three-quarters of them are four stars and above. 

A lot of customers praise not only its effectiveness but also how fast it seems to work. In addition, you get 75ml in this one bottle, so it should last a long time unless you have multiple toes that need treating.

Check out this video for information on the product and a visual on how to file your affected nail before applying:

Source: YouTube: The Meticulous Manicurist Nail Tutorials

Skip to 1:40 to hear the manicurist describe the client’s issue and how she started using this specific product. 

Skip to the three-minute mark to see how she files the big nail to prepare it for the topical treatment. You’ll notice she spends quite a bit of time on it, removing that top layer entirely so the medicine can penetrate the infection. 

Skip to 15:35 to see before and after pictures of how the toe responded to the treatment. 

Good to Know

This doesn’t come with any files, so I recommend buying a bulk pack, like this 100 Pack Nail File Set from Amazon.co.uk. 

After all, if you need this product because your nail is thick and seriously infected, you’ll need enough disposable files to last a few months. 

4. Natural Option: Dr.Organic – Tea Tree Antifungal Nail Solution

Although this natural remedy doesn’t have as many reviews as some of the others, it’s very affordable and perfect for those looking for an all-natural solution.

Tea tree is a natural antiseptic which is why it’s often seen as an additive to some of the other nail fungal products. The thing to remember is that consistency is key. If you don’t apply this daily, you won’t see results any time soon.

Source: Healthline

For best results, pair it with this Tea Tree Oil Foot Soak With Epsom Salt (from Amazon.co.uk). The combination of dead sea salt, tea tree, eucalyptus oil, rosemary oil, lavender, and peppermint work together to kill fungus and odour. 

Here’s how to use the two in tandem:

1. Soak your feet for 10-15 minutes in warm water with salts.
2. Dry thoroughly. 
3. Gently file the now soft nail, removing as much of the top layer as you can.
4. Apply the nail solution, massaging into the nail and surrounding skin.
5. Leave to dry completely before putting on socks and shoes.

Good to Know

The bottle comes with a brush applicator, but it might be better to buy a separate small brush that you can wash between uses to avoid the spread of bacteria. 

Since this is a natural remedy, it doesn’t have the same chemicals or strength as some of the other products, which means it might not be as effective. 

5. Easy Application: Naturally Solved Fungal Nail Treatment Cream

If you don’t like the idea of dropping oil onto your toes, this cream (from Amazon.co.uk) is an excellent alternative with plenty of good reviews. 

Not only does it have many of the same ingredients listed in the products above, such as tea tree, rosemary, and lavender, it’s also handmade in the UK and 100% vegan.

Unlike oils, which absorb quickly, this antifungal nail cream will work to soothe the whole area, reducing itchiness and any discomfort you might be feeling. 

Good to Know

Creams are not as concentrated as oils, so this would produce better results if you soaked your feet first and file the nail. Then, be sure to massage the cream in thoroughly and leave it to dry. 

If you put your socks and shoes on too quickly, the cream will absorb into the sock rather than your nail.

Another thing to note is that some customers complained about the lack of instructions. Also, some customers claimed that they received a box with files, where others didn’t. 

However, I still recommend buying a bulk pack of files as you’ll need to dispose of them after each use anyway. 

Can I Wear Nail Polish While Treating Nail Fungus?

Nail fungus is unsightly, so it’s no surprise that most people look for ways to cover it up. If the nail isn’t too thick or cracked, a simple coat of nail polish should do the trick, But is it a good idea?

You can wear nail polish while treating nail fungus with breathable polish that allows oxygen to penetrate. Fungus thrives in the dark, so covering it with thick polish will only encourage its growth. Look for a polish that contains tea tree oil and always give your nails a break every now and then.

Since nail polish makes the nail dark and can potentially trap moisture inside, there are a few steps to follow if you want to cover your fungus.

• Make sure the nail is completely clean and dry.
• File the area and apply the antifungal treatment, leaving it to dry for at least 15 minutes.
• Apply breathable nail polish to the nail, being careful not to go too thick.
• Don’t leave nail polish on for too long, and give your nail a break at least every couple of weeks by keeping it polish-free.

This Dr’s Remedy Enriched Nail Polish from Amazon.co.uk comes in a bunch of colours and is both breathable and contains tea tree. So as it’s on your nail, it’s allowing air through, and the tea tree can help with the bacterial infection. 

However, keep in mind that many of these treatments need daily applications. So if that’s the case, it’s probably best to avoid nail polish until the issue is fixed or until you can move on to a less frequent antifungal medication.

Source: Patel Podiatry

Will Canesten Treat Nail Fungus?

Canesten is an antifungal cream used to treat skin conditions such as vaginal yeast infections, oral thrush, diaper rash, and athlete’s foot. But what about nail fungus?

Canesten is not recommended to treat nail fungus because the cream is designed to penetrate skin, not nails. Although it may help with very mild cases, it won’t work against anything more serious. Instead, look for Canespro Fungal Nail Treatment Set, which is specifically designed for nails.

Canespro Fungal Nail Treatment Set for Toenails from Amazon.co.uk costs a little more than the other products on this list, but many reviewers praise how well it works and how fast.

Final Thoughts

I hope you found this article helpful and that you can use it to find the right nail fungus treatment for you. 

Remember, plenty of people suffer from the same thing, so don’t keep your feet locked away!

After watching American programmes like “Storage Wars” and “Storage Hunters” I wondered – are there storage auctions in the UK, too? 

Turns out that yes, there are storage auctions in the UK – you just have to know where to look! 

Some specialise in the entire contents of shipping containers, and others are just regular auctions that are abandoned self-storage that people have “done a runner” from and never paid for. Most sell for really small amounts, like £1. Others (especially if they’re full) go for hundreds. 

I’ve put together this list of all the British storage auction companies I’ve found, where their storage facilities are, and a link to where you can bid. But first, there’s some important info you need to know if you’re a wannabe storage hunter like me. 

What You Need to Know When Bidding with a UK Storage Auction House 

I’ve bid once or twice on these auctions and this is what I’ve learned: 

1. There Are Additional Fees

If you’ve never bid at auction before, bear in mind that all auctions usually have a buyer’s premium – it’s how the auction house makes their money. The premium is a percentage you pay on top of your bid amount. This can range from 10% to 25% and sometimes has VAT on top of that, so always read the auction terms and conditions carefully to add up how much your bid will really be.

Also, you need to know that storage companies often charge a “cleaning deposit”. From looking at existing auctions this seems to be around the £100 mark.

When you win the storage auction, this will be held on your card. You get it back when you FULLY empty the storage unit.

If you leave anything in the unit for the storage company to throw away, they might keep your cleaning deposit. This is to stop people “cherry-picking” the valuable items and leaving the junk behind! 

2. The Contents Usually Aren’t Valuable – But There Are Gems

My daughter (who also writes for this site) used to work in TV, and when she told me that the American TV shows like “Storage Hunters” were almost all faked (and ‘set dressed’ with nice things in the storage) it ruined it a bit for me! 

Don’t expect to find abandoned suitcases full of cash, pallets of Macbooks and all the rest of it. There’s a reason people have abandoned their storage – usually because whatever they left in there wasn’t worth paying the bill for. 

The other common items you see are things that are a pain to move, like exercise equipment, washing machines or large bits of furniture. You can get things like this cheap if that’s what you’re after. 

However, there have been gems. A friend of mine used to mock a young lad who always bid for what looked like rubbish – bin bags full of old clothes or jigsaws. One day the contents included what looked like old, out-of-date video games – but they turned out to be rare 1980s ones that collectors were paying hundreds for. They didn’t laugh any more! 

I’ve also seen storage units full of designer shoes, or signed sports memorabilia. I have no clue about either of these markets so I didn’t bid, but for someone, these were huge bargains. 

Basically what I’m saying is don’t get your hopes up, bid on what you know about, and don’t pay over the odds for something you can’t see!

3. Be Prepared if you Win

Some people bid online and then are surprised when they win… and they’re not ready to go to “their” unit, which might be across the country. Be serious if you’re bidding at storage auctions, and: 

– Look at the time you’re given to come and clear it out. It’s usually not that long, like 72 hours

– It becomes “your” unit when you win – so bring a padlock! You’d be amazed how many people forget this. The existing padlock will have been removed in order to auction it, of course. 

-Sort out transport and boxes. Some units are deceptively big and there are LOTS of things in them. You’ll need to move the whole lot to get your cleaning deposit back (mentioned above). 

4. Some Items Have to Be Returned to the Owner 

Some personal items have to be returned to their original owner, if you find them in your storage facility. These items include things like:

• Passports or ID
• Legal documents or certificates
• Tax or company paperwork
• Deeds, wills, etc.

This is pretty sensible and it’s just common sense to have these returned to their rightful owner. The auction house will probably tell you their rules, or it will be written in their terms and conditions.

Storage Unit Companies That Hold Online Auctions in the UK 

Proper storage auctions are few and far between, but there are some. Here are the ones I found:

IBidonStorage

Probably the site with the most active online storage auctions at any one time. Bidding starts at £1 and they have locations all around the UK including Bristol, Derby, Buckinghamshire, London, Devon, Sussex, Hampshire and Worcestershire. Click here to see their current auctions. 

eBay

It sounds obvious but lots of companies who used to run their own auctions now just do it on eBay because it’s easier for them to manage bidders and listings that way. Click here to see which companies are auctioning storage units on eBay.

Space Station

They have a private “mailing list” that you can ask to join. They say there are over 1000 people on that list, so it must be popular. Then you’ll get an actual email from them when they’re auctioning off a storage unit, and you can place a bid directly with them. Here’s their page where you can sign up. Their locations are mostly in and around London and Birmingham.

The UK Storage Company Ltd

They have written an interesting article about some of the background on storage auctions. They say they “very occasionally” have ones auctioned, usually because the person has stopped paying or has moved back abroad. Interestingly they reckon that they have never made enough money back to cover the cost of the owed rent!

They use Ebay to auction their abandoned units. Visit their site here.

Storage Giant

Storage Giant used to post about their auctions on Facebook but haven’t in a while, and I’m not sure they’re still doing them. Best to call them and ask. They operate mostly around the South West and Wales area.

Ask locally

this is probably one of the best ways to get “first dibs” on storage, and that’s to ask your nearest self-storage place. These days they’re in most towns and cities. This would be a good way to fend off the competition, because if it’s an online auction, everyone can bid – but if it’s just in your town, you’ll have a smaller pool of competing bidders!

In conclusion, do some research before you start looking, and don’t just assume that everything has value. Remember, if you end up winning anything, make sure you sort out getting it moved from wherever it was stored. But most of all – have fun! That’s what it’s really all about, for me anyway!