n books and films, you never see the starving artist checking out interest rates for their savings – they’re just trying to make enough money to survive. But there could be a lot more to their situation than just income. Research has found that some professions encourage better saving skills, because wise financial decisions are key to succeeding at work. Sadly for writers, artists and other creatives, they’re among the professions most likely to be left behind. And with UK personal savings in a poor state, this kind of professional disadvantage can’t be ignored.

The recent discovery of four Anglo-Saxon swords as well as the body of a young child buried with a shield and spear introduces this fascinating explanation of the significance of weapons in early medieval times. Beyond their importance in battle, they served as badges of male grief from battle-hardened men to their dead loved-ones.

And although we’ve probably all felt like we’re allergic to the cold, there are some people who genuinely suffer rashes, swelling or hives when the temperature drops. It’s due to something called cold urticaria, a rare but serious condition that can even trigger a life-threatening anaphylaxis.