Calm Your Beans · Storify

The Drink-Drive Limit Comes Under Question

Calm Your Beans — Fri, 01 Feb 2013 11:30:56 GMT

What limits should be imposed on drink driving have come under discussion again.

Storified by Calm Your Beans · Fri, Feb 01 2013 03:30:56

Over the Christmas and New Year period – when people go out and celebrate and join in festivities – a conversation about one of the more unpleasant aspects of the season cropped up again: driving under the influence of alcohol.

Don’t Drink & Drive | Outdoor Banners | BannerBuzz · BannerBuzz

Recently there have been calls to raise the limit, such as in Kerry in Ireland, which has introduced a new bill raising the limit in some specific rural areas.. People in rural areas, it is argued, want to go to their local pubs and enjoy a couple of drinks and then make the short journey home. A pro to this, it is said, is that it gives a person the satisfaction of a couple of drinks, rather than staying at home and potentially drinking more and harder alcohol. Also, as many of the people living in such rural areas drive large farm vehicles such as tractors that are unable to move very fast, it's said that accidents are not likely to rise. An under 30 mile speed limit will be placed on these areas, too.

NEWS: Kerry councillors back plan to allow drink-driving ‘in moderation' - http://tmblr.co/ZdYsyuc_l6-q
— Steven Caulfield · Wed, Jan 30 2013 00:17:32

Ireland's Kerry County raises legal blood alcohol content

Despite these assurances there is disagreement against the raise:

I'm embarassed and appalled by @countykerry council's actions. Your proposal is outrageous, and beyond irresponsible http://bit.ly/TRi0wK
— Aimée Keane · Tue, Jan 29 2013 06:12:19

Ridiculous. RT“@thejournal_ie: Council sends letter to Minister calling for drink-driving limit to be relaxed http://jrnl.to/Xd334L”
— Shane Gillen · Tue, Jan 29 2013 05:36:18

Unbelievable! "@thejournal_ie: Council sends letter to Minister calling for drink-driving limit to be relaxed http://jrnl.to/Xd334L"
— Mike Cowley · Tue, Jan 29 2013 05:26:37

Galway Co. Council has voted to 'disassociate itself completely' from the rural drink driving motion passed by Kerry Co. Council recently
— Galway Independent · Mon, Jan 28 2013 11:43:19

And alcohol affects us all different and can be affected by a number of things, such as sex, age, weight and metabolism. A rise in the limit might be all right for some individuals to cope with, but for others it could have a very detrimental effect. It's not just one's own personal safety that's at risk, but other road users. And even if an accident occurs that doesn't hurt anyone, damages to your car or if its windows need repairing can be expensive. And that's not factoring in the fines you'd incur if being caught over the limit.

Nickle Rose ✯✯✯✯1/2 · Stew*

#Beer · Sille Bruggisser

Indeed, in New Zealand there is support from the majority of the public (65%) for a lowering of the limit. This calls for a decrease from 8-mg in 100ml to 50mg, which is currently the limit in some European countries such as Germany or France. It’s said that in individuals over 30, they are 16 times more likely to crash than if they were sober under the current limits. At 50mg they are 5.8 times more likely.

Cut drink-drive limit: poll

Nearly two-thirds of New Zealanders support lowering the drink-drive limit - although the Government says it won't act until more researc...

But the government says that more research is necessary to fully explore this, before they make a decision. The potential benefits of lowering the limits need to be weighed against the costs of implementing such.

World Cancer Day

Calm Your Beans — Mon, 04 Feb 2013 09:21:32 GMT

The 4th of Feb is World Cancer Day. It is a global event that will focus on the dispelling misconceptions about cancer under the tagline "Cancer - Did you know?". Add your voice to raise awareness.

Storified by Calm Your Beans · Mon, Feb 04 2013 01:21:32

World Cancer Day

World Cancer Day 2013 (4 February 2013) will focus on Target 5 of the World Cancer Declaration: Dispel damaging myths and misconception...

We're getting ready for #worldcancerday on Monday. Sign the declaration to help reduce the burden of cancer http://bit.ly/119XtG1
— Boehringer · Fri, Feb 01 2013 01:10:20

There are many organisations and charities that are working towards curing and living with cancer. Many of them rely on your charity donations to carry out their work so make sure to help them get their voice heard this World Cancer Day.

Global cost of #cancer to reach $458billion by 2030 - how will you help? #worldcancerday http://pic.twitter.com/ch5rLkpT · Eliminate Cancer

Sign the World Cancer Declaration to show your support to beat cancer: http://ow.ly/hjPqc #WorldCancerDay
— Mumbai Smiles · Thu, Jan 31 2013 23:30:23

Help to dispel the myth of Cancer by using Social Media. Info available here: http://bit.ly/XMTurD #worldcancerday
— Noel Colina · Thu, Jan 31 2013 21:46:58

Guys it's #WorldCancerDay in 3 days! Go to http://worldcancerday.org and sign now for a cancer free world.
— Celine · Thu, Jan 31 2013 21:11:22

World Cancer Research Fund Int. 2013 Video World Cancer Day · realjock123

World Cancer Campaign

The Report captures all key moments and activities of the year, such as the impressive World Cancer Day campaign, the growth of members...

Stay healthy. Women who put on a lot of weight as adults may have a higher risk of #breastcancer. #worldcancerday http://bit.ly/VAL1bB
— NBCF Australia · Thu, Jan 31 2013 20:35:31

World Cancer Day - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

World Cancer Day is marked on February 4 to raise awareness of cancer and to encourage its prevention, detection, and treatment.

R I P @CoachRose3-We will continue to #FightLikeHell-YOU ARE @LIVESTRONG-#fcancer #WorldCancerDay Feb 4th http://pic.twitter.com/ynvOGYqR · Roger Levesque

Cancer is like a dictator. It will come back unless removed completely. #worldcancerday
— Faisal Saeed · Thu, Jan 31 2013 18:50:40

Monday is #WorldCancerDay what will you do?
— WearPearl4LungCancer · Thu, Jan 31 2013 18:27:15

NCI's Center for Global Health is committed to exchanging knowledge in our global fight against cancer http://1.usa.gov/WVV9wB #WorldCancerDay
— Multicultural Media · Thu, Jan 31 2013 15:44:55

@uicc @GTFCCC #worldcancerday advertising in Moscow http://pic.twitter.com/13e2d7it · Dmitry Borisov

@ashleyschlag @mikemilzz @kermitrocks #Cancersucks - let's #DemandCures this #WorldCancerDay. Are you participating? http://owl.li/hiWj4
— Demand Cures Today · Thu, Jan 31 2013 15:10:30

This #worldcancerday event is going to be so informative. RSVP here: http://bit.ly/XzoDhS and check out this video: http://bit.ly/VxnycQ
— BreastCancerAnswers · Thu, Jan 31 2013 14:38:18

What are you doing for #worldcancerday? Aussie physio & mum launches BreastCancer App @cure_magazine @CancerTodayMag http://pic.twitter.com/yEpUYUSK · Cancer Physio

Feb 4 is #worldcancerday. Find out about dispeling common myths about #cancer and raise global awareness. http://www.worldcancerday.org/
— Jimmy Chung, M.D. · Thu, Jan 31 2013 12:56:02

Wildlife Hazards While Driving Your Car

Calm Your Beans — Mon, 28 Jan 2013 17:01:16 GMT

One truly unpredictable thing while driving is the local wildlife, which can sometimes run or fly in front of your car without warning.

Storified by Calm Your Beans · Mon, Jan 28 2013 09:01:48

Wildlife can be highly unpredictable when you're out driving on the roads. In their panic the animal often darts into the road, causing the driver to make the split second decision of swerving or hitting the animal. Though killing the animal is a horrible choice, sometimes its necessary depending on the situation; swerving may, for example, take your car into busy oncoming traffic or down a steep bank.

Watch out for deer. I hit one last night with my car. Poor thing was stunned but ran back into the woods! Car damange minimal. #Whew
— Jim Sullivan · Mon, Jan 28 2013 05:26:38

Nothing like a deer running into your car at 7 in the morning. #Screw #School #Hate #Cold #Tired
— Amanda_rose · Mon, Jan 28 2013 04:46:26

Fully grown deer jumped out in front of my car in the dark this morning. Never thought such a benign animal could be so HORRIBLY TERRIFYING
— Jen · Mon, Jan 28 2013 04:43:16

My poor little car... :-( So not happy with that deer right now! http://pic.twitter.com/nG3Klqq2 · Laura Tisdall

There are usually a few common animals that can be a hazard on the roads. Pigeons and pheasants run or fly in front of cars, or even up in front of the windscreen. Though small animals, speed combined with force can cause dents or put cracks in your windscreen. Though less common, larger animals such as badgers, foxes and even deer can run out in front of cars and can cause a great deal more damage.

Red deer · Ian Loyd 11

Searching The Skies.. · Lauren Tucker Photography (7D!)

Pheasant · R M BRIGHT

Walking pigeons ! · kultar.singh.186

DSC_1929 · Elms Photography

037-IMG_0010 Badger (Meles meles) · ajmatthehiddenhouse

Yes deer, running in front of my car while its extremely foggy out wasn't the best idea all night.. but at least I dodnt hit you.
— Emily · Sun, Jan 27 2013 22:36:28

Deer in seekonk seriously just love running at my car
— Tom The King · Sun, Jan 27 2013 21:02:24

A deer hit my car tonight.
— V O H S E T · Sun, Jan 27 2013 20:46:48

Me and my car just had a fight with a pigeon, I won.
— Daria Horseman · Mon, Jan 28 2013 06:12:39

Totally just murdered a pigeon with my car. I'm a monster :(
— Russell Clark · Sun, Jan 27 2013 15:53:48

@SamBonhamCarter A PIGEON DIVE BOMBED MY CAR LAST WEEK. I WAS SO AFRAID.
— Alli Smith · Sun, Jan 27 2013 11:37:40

Just hit my first pheasant...with a car. #awhcrap #kindasadtho
— Ashley Berndt · Sun, Jan 27 2013 14:16:22

Just saw a pheasant get hit by a car <
— шhat da fuq · Fri, Jan 25 2013 08:40:08

Weather Effects

Calm Your Beans — Fri, 01 Feb 2013 15:50:47 GMT

Last year was a tough year for Britain's wildlife with a very wet spring and summer having a dramatic affect on plants and animals. We are still getting weather disruptions from the winter, but we are hoping that the weather will be kind to the wildlife this year.

Storified by Calm Your Beans · Fri, Feb 01 2013 07:50:47

Pic: Frozen fountains of Trafalgar Square http://thetim.es/T8Sfrs < Minute-by-minute updates on the icy & snowy weather http://pic.twitter.com/bUajQIJj · The Times of London

More snow is on the cards for a lot of the UK. It may be cold but it can still make for a fun family day out, make sure to keep your eyes peeled for any local wildlife adapting and overcoming the cold weather.

Look who read the snow report! #winter #wildlife #snow http://pic.twitter.com/60JOtcLb · Grouse Mountain

UK SHIVERS IN TREACHEROUS COLD SNAP!http://news.sky.com/story/1040162/weather-and-travel-updates-snow-covered-uk … But how long will the snow and cold continue for + Spring? http://www.exactaweather.com/UK_Long_Range_Forecast.html
— UK Weather Geek · Mon, Jan 21 2013 11:46:48

RT @northumberlands: #NEsnow UPDATE - Image showing it approaching from the West at 1:45pm. #weather image from http://uk.weather.com #UKsnow http://twitpic.com/by4lg2 · hesus kidd

Harborne pathway is on the front page of http://weather.co.UK ! That's really exciting, even if only to me :p http://pic.twitter.com/PSV1bUk2 · tam

Prepared - Staying one step ahead of weather this winter will help keep you safe & well http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/media/pdf/p/f/Cold_Weather_Alert_Service_Poster_2012_-_2013.pdf @metoffice http://pic.twitter.com/DPrBWVCQ · NHS in Manchester

Make sure to keep your furry friends cozy in the cold weather like this little guy.

RT @CheersInsurance: Ensure you are covered, whatever the weather http://www.cheersinsurance.com http://pic.twitter.com/rN8AW2rd · Love Hampton Hill

It seems it's snowing again in UK! Share your weather and your photos on @wezzoo! #WeatherByYou #uksnow http://pic.twitter.com/1Wu2WaMf · wezzoo_uk

Red Pole #ExperienceHaliburton #eh #mindenhills #wildlife #winter http://pic.twitter.com/HVcKgfXB · Haliburton Highlands

Its not just the UK that has a lot of snow on the way.

RT @WMOnews: Details of winter #weather alerts, including amber warning for much of UK, at Meteoalarm http://www.meteoalarm.eu http://pic.twitter.com/ATvDMkNP · EUMETSAT

‘Thinking of Spring’. As the UK enjoys some snow and grey grey weather, a little something is needed to brig http://instagr.am/p/UrLjGrqe-w/ · Oxfordshire Walks

@HomeAndAway_ This is the weather in Wales, UK. It's beautiful but I'd much prefer your weather! http://pic.twitter.com/9KzoQWIR · Louise Tucker

50 years on, find out how the worst winter for 200 years hit farm animals and wildlife. My 2nd report ITV, 6pm tonight. http://pic.twitter.com/ao83ZuuS · Malcolm Shaw

RT @thewildoutside: Please help your garden birds this winter - http://thewildoutside.com/index.php/2012-10-05-14-49-20/wildlife-info/319-looking-after-your-garden-birds#.UPqHLojlcb9.twitter http://pic.twitter.com/X7VXL2FU · Wildwalkingwoman

RT @KerriFar: Excellent! RT @dennisbuchner: Otter proud of his catch #otter #photography #wildlife #winter http://pic.twitter.com/SDmo8Wrl · Mary Graham

RT @StaffsWildlife: Amazing #winter scene next to the entrance to the Wolseley Centre this week #snow http://ow.ly/h5DUF http://pic.twitter.com/3laEkp4Z · Mark Pearshouse

2012 was a particularly tough year for UK wildlife, with a very wet April and poor summer many animals struggled. To see who were the winners and losers from last year check out our latest post.

Valentines Inspiration

Calm Your Beans — Wed, 23 Jan 2013 09:39:53 GMT

We are having a look online at what people are thinking about Valentine's Day. It is still a few weeks away but people are already wondering what to get their significant others. Do you have any ideas?

Storified by Calm Your Beans · Wed, Jan 23 2013 01:39:53

Cheery new desktop. #valentinesday http://instagr.am/p/Uyl_gwslzd/ · Kustom Kissers

I'm thinking of asking the Husband for #photography lighting equipment for #ValentinesDay .. oh, how things have changed. . :)
— Alice Choi · Tue, Jan 22 2013 07:10:04

RT @RBEhotels: What better way to celebrate #Valentines & #MothersDay than with our @lastminute_com Pink Aft Tea! http://goo.gl/BTHBV http://pic.twitter.com/2cM0O2zX · lastminute.com

“@GideonConn: custom art work for valentines day gift:) http://www.gideonconn.com/ http://pic.twitter.com/qE6NSoxh” Gideon, you are amazing xxx · Clint Boon

Sent out these pretty #silver heart #earrings today, they're just perfect for a #valentines #gift eh boys? http://ow.ly/1RnEwT
— Macaroon Jewellery · Tue, Jan 22 2013 07:25:08

trying to find the perfect valentines day gift is going to be the hardest task for the next 2 weeks
— danielle nicole · Tue, Jan 22 2013 07:17:48

For Her......

Men.. Treat your ladies/loved ones this Valentines day.. Fantastic gift packs, Vouchers &products at the groom room! http://pic.twitter.com/3Z8YJdGE · groom room hair

For Him....

Ladies.. Treat your fellas/loved ones this Valentines day.. Fantastic gift packs, Vouchers &products at the groom room! http://pic.twitter.com/V00TMCdi · groom room hair

Great Valentines gift, hit the jackpot.... Vintage Fortune Jackpot Slot Machine Bank 1940s by TraceyAnns http://etsy.me/vj13Bp via @Etsy
— Tracey Oswald · Tue, Jan 22 2013 07:15:36

Valentine Gift Ideas Your Love Guide – 3 Free Valentine’s Day Gifts That Revive Romantic Bliss: Valentine‘s Day ... http://bit.ly/143bJPx
— Onepa Nazda · Tue, Jan 22 2013 07:14:56

Here are some great offers to get you all in the mood for Valentines Day! Gift vouchers also available http://pic.twitter.com/eJ7d0Unj · Angels Sheerness

So many ideas on what makes up a great Valentine's gift.

Valentines Day Gift Question: "Is a paid electricity bill an acceptable gift for a girlfriend on Valentines Day?" http://fb.me/2gE4BkS1S
— Donny Eisenbach · Tue, Jan 22 2013 07:10:57

Valentines Day is approaching! Treat your lover with a gift certificate to Avanti Salon! Everyone loves to get pampered! #valentine
— Avanti Salon · Tue, Jan 22 2013 07:10:17

Need Ideas on a Great Valentines Gift ??? #AskFollowers
— ®TheLandLord™ · Tue, Jan 22 2013 07:09:57

I hope Alex likes his valentines day gift :) I've never celebrated before. Gonna be different
— Mandi Jeanne Downs · Tue, Jan 22 2013 07:08:23

Whoop I thought of the cutest gift for valentines day
— Lay · Tue, Jan 22 2013 07:05:41

@MoneyCrashers no problem! Loved your 5 Fun-Yet-Cheap Gift & Date Night Ideas for #ValentinesDay! #LoveToSave http://valpak.com/valentines
— Laura Harders · Tue, Jan 22 2013 07:01:31

Igloofest 2013

Calm Your Beans — Mon, 21 Jan 2013 09:39:24 GMT

Igloofest is unlike any music event in the world. It's 12 nights of unadulterated electronic music from some of the biggest names in the business. Keep up to date with the 'coolest' party ever.

Storified by Calm Your Beans · Mon, Jan 21 2013 01:39:24

Find out who our top five acts to see are.

Taking place at the Old Port in Montreal, it's transformed into an igloo village. If you're still looking for a place to stay, the Quality Inn Brossard is less than 15 minutes away from a great weekend out.

Igloofest 2013: Who To See

The most unique music festival in the world returns - Igloofest. Back for its 7th year, it brings an added weekend meaning even more gorg...

Obviously the cold is a huge talking point of the Igloofest. Let's see how people are keeping themselves warm.

The Igloofest white rabbit. SWAG over 9000 ! #igloofest http://pic.twitter.com/RHBeaSiu · PRASS

Wearing a bunny suit is ingenious.

-30 !! #igloofest #Montreal http://instagr.am/p/Um81ctwhbX/ · Nowo

-30 Degrees!

I'm ready for you #igloofest! Now if only they sold these as body suits. http://instagr.am/p/UmMd_ovUZ6/ · Eva Blue

That's an incredible idea, I wonder if anyone has tried making one.

Eskimo kisses at everyone at #igloofest xox
— Katherine MUA · Thu, Jan 17 2013 19:48:18

You can keep warm by kissing I guess.

I'm preparing draft tweets for later tonight when it'll be so cold I won't want to be using my phone for too long #igloofest
— Aaron Llena · Thu, Jan 17 2013 14:48:52

Double socks #igloofest
— TF · Thu, Jan 17 2013 19:44:09

Clever ideas guys.

#WolfandLamb #onstage #igloofest http://instagr.am/p/Um8-HaTSE3/ · Carolan Grégoire

Arrived after long airport delays.snowy &beautiful in old Montreal! Something magic in the air!i feel it strong! #igloofest @Piknic
— josh wink · Sat, Jan 19 2013 16:58:55

#igloofest #montreal #canada #mtl #party #winter #cold #rave #january http://instagr.am/p/UonGG-gz4G/ · Eric Bindman

Roasting marshmallows at #Igloofest http://instagr.am/p/UsgBGrER_J/ · Magassy Mbow

Roasting marshmallows hay @michaelryan_b #igloofest http://instagr.am/p/Up7pCtQv3g/ · Stéphanie Etmekdjian

Cancer Talk Week

Calm Your Beans — Fri, 18 Jan 2013 10:05:43 GMT

From the 21-27 of January Cancer Talk Week will be taking place across the country. The week focuses on families and how they can be there to support you but can also be the hardest to speak to about cancer. We will be looking to update this storify over the coming week.

Storified by Calm Your Beans · Fri, Jan 18 2013 02:07:27

Macmillan Cancer Support - Cancer Talk Week

Receiving a cancer diagnosis is hard. Talking about it can be even harder. That's why this year Cancer Talk Week is encouraging peo...

KIDDERMINSTER: Kidderminster Hospital playing part in Macmillan Cancer Talk Week http://bit.ly/104r5zo #Worcs
— WORCESTERSHIRE · Fri, Jan 18 2013 00:00:24

The week of activities aims to raise cancer awareness through having people talking openly about cancer. There will be many events taking place so make sure to check out what is going on near you.

You can join the 'Cancer Talk Week' team challenge! Check out that challenge and many others at: http://bit.ly/bDzdVA
— World Community Grid · Thu, Jan 17 2013 06:07:40

Cancer Talk Week 2013 | myhealthlondon

This year, Macmillan's Cancer Talk Week starts on January the 21st, and kicks off six days of activities & events designed to p...

RT @londonhypnosis: Cancer Talk Week - Time to talk frankly about cancer - @NGTherapies kicks off the chat with me on Croydon Radio Tuesday http://bit.ly/UK8Xsk
— Keepoint Ltd · Mon, Jan 14 2013 14:38:06

Cancer Talk Week - Time to talk frankly about cancer - @NGTherapies kicks off the chat with me on Croydon Radio Tuesday http://bit.ly/UK8Xsk
— Jimi Sayo · Mon, Jan 14 2013 10:42:53

Macmillan Cancer Support - Cancer Talk Week @macmillancancer http://www.macmillan.org.uk/GetInvolved/CancertalkWeek/CancertalkWeek.aspx#.UO_aqPMK7_s.twitter
— Macmillan SocialCare · Fri, Jan 11 2013 01:26:20

The Embassy World Snooker Masters

Calm Your Beans — Mon, 21 Jan 2013 11:32:26 GMT

The Emabassy World Snooker Masters is one of the most prestigious competitions in the world. This year saw many highlights and we have curated some of the tweets and images that have been shared over the time of the competition.

Storified by Calm Your Beans · Mon, Jan 21 2013 03:35:56

Masters Snooker

The Betfred World Snooker Championship news, fixtures and results. Follow the latest coverage of the 2012 The Masters with MastersSnook...

I've arrived!! #BetfairMasters #snooker http://pic.twitter.com/Kd1n1o7g · Shaun147

(R): The Masters, Round 1, Judd Trump 6 (11) 5 Barry Hawkins #themasters #snooker
— World Snooker · Tue, Jan 15 2013 09:05:07

The Art Of Snooker - 2013 Masters Promotional Clip (BBC) · therocketexpress

In a recent survey carried out by paid surveys company Valued Opinions the majority of respondents chose Ronnie O'sullivan as their favoured snooker player. Although he wasn't at the masters people will be looking forward to watching him come back at the World Championships.

Well done judd trump #masters
— Sir Dave · Tue, Jan 15 2013 08:59:19

Masters (snooker) - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The Masters is a professional snooker tournament and the second longest running tournament outside the World Championship and is one of...

@judd147t congratulations mate. Brilliant comeback #entertainment #masters
— David McDonough · Tue, Jan 15 2013 08:58:31

this could be great confidence for judd to win the title !!! #snooker #masters
— mics147 · Tue, Jan 15 2013 09:02:06

Judd Trump - what on earth? @judd147t #snooker #BetfairMasters http://pic.twitter.com/fviuJkyP · Jay Shaw

#snooker #BetfairMasters winner will be @judd147t ;) http://pic.twitter.com/Gbuiett4 · Kamila Markova

Where's the cue ball going! #snooker #allypally http://pic.twitter.com/EPyL9KSq · Andy Coates

BBC Sport - Snooker

17 hours ago ... Two-time Masters champion John Higgins reaches the quarter-final with a 6-3 victory over Ali Carter. Snooker scores Th...

RT @Eurosport: LIVE today at 21.00 cet #Snooker #Masters RT @WorldSnooker1 Lights, table....and almost action here at Ally Pally http://pic.twitter.com/GHPoz3Ep · Gökay Taş

@WorldSnooker1 @Snooker_BBC why can't all matches be like that game? Absolutely brilliant! #bbcsnooker #snooker
— Jake O'Sullivan · Tue, Jan 15 2013 09:01:02

HENDRY HENDRY HENDRY STEPHEN HENDRY!!!!!!!!! I missed you! :D #Snooker
— Soph · Tue, Jan 15 2013 08:57:21

Met de Eurosport-Player wordt werken een stuk aangenamer ! (#BetfairMasters op @EurosportNLBE) ... http://lockerz.com/s/277092123 · Luc Billy Behiels

The cloth in the players lounge looks a bit worn... #BetfairMasters http://pic.twitter.com/trWIIblz · Sean O'Sullivan

And we have a winner! Congratulations to Mark Selby who was victorious! Everyone is already starting to look towards the world championships and the prospect of one of the most entertaining snooker players returning, Ronnie O'sullivan.

Very happy with the result last night ... #MarkSelby you legend .. Now here's to hoping for Ronnie's return for the worlds !! #TheMasters
— rachel abbott · Sun, Jan 20 2013 22:19:40

Connect London: A Cyclist's Paradise

Calm Your Beans — Wed, 09 Jan 2013 10:35:42 GMT

Do you wish cycling in London was easier? Read on to find out what UK charity Sustrans' plans are to make that a reality.

Storified by Calm Your Beans · Wed, Jan 09 2013 02:35:42

It is without doubt cycling conditions in London have improved in the last decade. With introductions of Boris Bikes and more cycling lanes, the capital has literally got on its bike and embraced a culture often found in other major cities.

Yet, there is still huge room for improvements. With more and more cyclists want to take to the roads on two wheels, many feel unsafe – we need change. Sunstans, a UK leading charity encouraging green travel, is campaigning for the largest cycling network in the world to be created in London.

Connect London · SustransLibrary

While London has tried to replicate Copenhagen’s excellent superhighway system (regarded as the friendliest cycling city in the world) with its own superhighway system, there is a stark contrast. Watch the playlist below to see POV videos for the superhighways.

London Cycle Superhighways · YouTube

Cycling in London please beware (in no particular order): Lorries Buses White Vans Black cabs Addison Lee cabs #tipsforcyclists
— Trauma Anaesthetist · Wed, Jan 02 2013 12:06:19

Some of the cycle lanes around London are gutters with paint on them, or dangerous like this one. #tipsforcyclists http://pic.twitter.com/MIvF5uY4 · Trauma Anaesthetist

It can be difficult to complete a journey easily as some routes and roads come to an abrupt end. The Connect London campaign aims to create 600 miles of routes to construct a super network that will help not only the locals get around the city, but tourists too. Increasing routes that are more enjoyable to ride would hopefully get more people of all abilities on their bike, particularly a younger generation to make it easier for them.

Connect London | Sustrans

If you look at other cycling cities around the world, London has some catching up to do. But we don't want London to follow the leader - ...

This could potentially lead to fewer vehicles on the road and therefore less pollution. Not only would London be cleaner for lowering its emissions, it would increase the health of its citizens. It has also been suggested by making it more affordable to enter the city centre, high streets would benefit too.

The routes would connect every borough in the city and Greater London. The scheme isn’t just interested in more cycle lanes on roads, the plans are much bigger than that. It would also involve taking existing unused structures and turning them into pathways for cyclists. A mock example turns an unused highway into a cycle lane.

Creating such a network will have to be carried out in stages, hence the year 2020 target, and it would cost £10 million each year; still less than the price of a new underground train. London Mayor Boris Johnson has announced plans to improve London’s cycling over the next decade with almost £1 billion investment – Sustrans’ plans are a fraction of that figure.

Give London 'World's biggest cycle network' Sustrans tells Mayor Johnson | road.cc | Road cycling news, Bike reviews, Commuting, Leisure riding, Sportives and more

Sustrans is calling on Mayor of London Boris Johnson to give the city what it describes as "the world's biggest cycle network" by 2020 as...

122 cyclists were killed on Britain’s roads in 2012, marking a five-year high. Fourteen of those cyclists died in London. Many more have suffered injuries, usually involving vehicles. If you’re injured and it wasn’t your fault, you may be entitled to a cycle accident claim.

122 cyclists died in 2012 - a five-year high | The Times

Cycling deaths in 2012 hit a five-year high, as 122 cyclists were killed on Britain's roads last year. Reflecting the boom in cycling amo...

Many people have been put off cycling on the London roads and the stats back those fears. It has been predicted cycling levels will decline in 2013 after steady growth for the last decade. By building a safe network of routes, it could dramatically impact the number of cyclists in London for generations to come.

Cycling in London on the decline?

Initiatives such as TfL's Ride to Work Friday have boosted cycling in the UK capital in recent years (Geoff Waugh/Future Publishing) Figu...

You can do your part by signing this petition.

Mayor of London, Boris Johnson: Connect London - build the world's biggest cycle network by 2020

Sustrans is urging Mayor Boris Johnson to build the world's biggest cycle network by 2020 - 1000km of cycling routes connecting every bor...

In the meantime you can use this wonderful Harry Beck styled cycling map...

I like this! Campaign for a Harry Beck style cycling map for London http://bit.ly/X3yqiA via @JimmyTLeach
— harry rutter · Thu, Jan 03 2013 10:22:16

Craft Beer, keeping us cool in the pub.

Calm Your Beans — Wed, 02 Jan 2013 12:27:04 GMT

Craft beer is now cool, there is no denying it and here's why.

Storified by Calm Your Beans · Wed, Jan 02 2013 04:27:40

Mikesbrewreview

Craft beer: now served cool

If you like beer, be happy. For real beer is suddenly making fresh inroads into restaurants. Today, the upmarket burger chain, Byron, lau...

I have the best bf ever cause he gave me the chimay glass for Christmas (: just what I wanted #chimay#beerporn#beergasm#craftbeer#beer#loveit · melissa d

CRAFT BEER RISING

Beer festival and trade show

Had 2 Burton baton #dogfishhead #craftbeer #beer · Manny L

Brewing Innovation ‹ Path Limited

In the last decade, the UK beer market has gradually been disrupted by the rise of craft and microbreweries - in fact, the number of brew...

The base for everyones favorite #BCBS this is pretty hoppy for a #stout Very interesting... #craftbeernotcrapbeer #gooseisland #nightstalker bottled on 11/19/12 #beergeek #beerporn #beersnob #stoutseason #kchopster #beertography #instabeer #brewhead #solo #sesh #watchinghorriblemovieswithmywife @mellymel8947 · Josh Carleton

The rise and rise of craft beer

It's never been a better time for quality ale. ShortList's Peter Brown takes us through the UK's independent, artisan brewing revival...

#1 beer of the night so far. Happy New Years! #newyearsday #bottleshare #bruery #otoise #craftbeer · Ryan Shipman

Zythos Bierfestival

ZBF 2012 - 29-30 april - Brabanthallen - Leuven. Klik op het logo voor meer informatie of kies een taal: Nederlands · Français · Deutsc...

Zythos takes place in a city that also claims the worlds largest brewery, book a hotel in Leuven and go check it out.

When the Red Thunder rolls.... #craftbeer #beerporn #woodenkeg · slackgatsby

Such a cool craft beer "filling station" #craftbeer @ The Filling Station http://instagr.am/p/T89ue6NFIw/ · Michelina V