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In this blog post, we'll be looking at ways to make working at a desk more manageable for people with POTS or other forms of dysautonomia. What is POTS? First, let’s define POTS. Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) falls under the umbrella of dysautonomia—a group of conditions related to dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system . The term “autonomic” means “self-governing”, referring to the system that controls involuntary functions you don’t consciously think about. This includes breathing, digestion, heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, sweating, and more. This can make daily tasks—such as sitting at a desk for extended periods—challenging, due to the body's difficulty in maintaining stable blood pressure while upright. POTS Friendly Desk Setup Staying Supported Using a footrest to keep your legs elevated can help reduce the physical strain on your body by reducing the impact on your blood pressure. Another effective method is sitting cross-legged; you can do this on any chair, but there are models specifically designed for this purpose. Generally, any larger chair will suffice. Continuing Your Regular Self-care Keeping up with your regular self-care practices will keep your body in the best shape possible. If you've been living with POTS for a long time, many of these will already be part of your daily routine: Staying hydrated : Drinking three litres a day and making use of electrolyte tablets. Compression : Wearing compression garments, particularly on the lower half of the body. Temperature control : Staying cool is a great way of reducing POTS symptoms , as heat is a common trigger. Click here for more self-care tips. Set Time Limits Set an alarm so you don't sit upright for more than you can handle comfortably. Learning your limits is a key part of self-care when living with chronic illness. Listening to your body will help you to avoid any crashes . It's also important to move frequently; setting an alarm to remind you to get up from your desk every 20-30 minutes will help to avoid blood pooling. Bed Setup When sitting at a desk is too much, a bed setup is a great alternative. Making use of a laptop table can keep you connected even when you aren't feeling your best. You can also use smart devices as wireless monitors if you typically require a desktop to work. This, paired with a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse, can create a seamless workstation—whether you're tackling demanding work tasks, socialising online, gaming, or working on creative projects. Final note I hope readers will find something useful in this post. The key takeaway is to listen to your body and avoid pushing yourself to stay upright for longer than you can comfortably manage—that limit will vary from day to day. You'll find many more posts like this one in the blog section of our website, all related to living well with POTS/dysautonomia. Feel free to check them out!

What is dysautonomia? Dysautonomia is an umbrella term for health conditions related to the autonomic nervous system . The term "autonomic" means ”self-governing,” which means it controls things you don't have to think about. This covers a wide range of bodily functions, such as breathing, digestion, heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, sweating, and much more. Some of the most common forms include POTS, orthostatic hypotension, vasovagal syncope and autonomic dysreflexia. Symptoms While every form of dysautonomia is different, in this list we will include some of the most common symptoms: Feeling dizzy or fainting: Feeling dizzy or fainting is a common symptom of many forms of dysautono mia. Dizziness can often be caused when the autonomic nervous system does not regulate blood pressure effectively. Abnormally fast or slow heart rate: Another common symptom of dysautonomia, especially POTS , is an abnormal change in heart rate when transitioning from laying down to standing up. Anxiety: People with autonomic autonomic dysfunction can be very sensitive to norepinephrine , which plays an important role in the body’s “fight-or-flight” response. In addition, the parasympathetic nervous system, which calms us, may not counteract rushes of hormones such as adrenaline. Fatigue: Feeling fatigued is a common feature of many chronic illnesses. Fatigue isn't just feeling tired; it's persistent and doesn’t go away with bed rest. This can be caused by the extra strain on the body, due to a dysregulated nervous system. Excessive sweating or not being able to sweat: Another sym ptom of dysautonomia is difficulty regulating your body's internal temperature, as well as heat intolerance. Breathlessness: Shortness of breath, or dyspnea, is a commonly reported symptom in dysautonomia patients.  One study indicates that at least half of dysautonomia patients experience shortness of breath. Feeling thirsty: Studies have also shown that some individuals with autonomic dysfunction can have a reduction in the amount of fluid volume in the body, called hypovolemia . Having trouble swallowing: Difficulty swallowing, also known as dysphagia , occurs in some people with many different autonomic nervous system disorders. Common causes of dysautonomic dysphagia include a stroke , head injury , or  dementia . Headaches: Frequent and long-lasting headaches are a common symptom of autonomic disorders as well as long COVID . Insomnia: Sleep disorders can be common in individuals with autonomic dysfunction. These can be caused by symptoms such as breathlessness and adrenaline surges; which can often be triggered by lying at certain angles. Also, s leep-promoting neurons found in the central autonomic network, which control sleep cycles, can be dysregulated. Nausea and diarrhea: Dysautonomia affects the autonomic nervous system’s signalling to the stomach, this can cause a condition called Gastroparesis . Vision problems: Your autonomic nervous system doesn 't involve your vision directly. However, it does manage the width of your pupils (re gulating how much light enters your eyes) and the muscles your eyes use to focus. A form of dysautonomia called "Familial Dysautonomia" can cause sight problems due to progressive damage to the optic nerve in the eyes.  Getting a Diagnosis Dysautonomia can be a challenge to diagnose, with many symptoms that may appear unrelated at first. A diagnosis normally comes when your doctor has ruled out other illnesses. For more information about the process of diagnosing dysautonomia Click Here To learn some useful tips and tricks on managing dysautonomia symptoms Click Here

What is Dysautonomia? Dysautonomia is an umbrella term for health conditions related to the autonomic nervous system . The term "autonomic" means ”self-governing,” referring to the system that controls involuntary functions you don’t consciously think about. This includes breathing, digestion, heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, sweating, and more. Tips for Managing Dysautonomia There are many types of dysautonomia, and there's no quick fix, but with some lifestyle adjustments things can get easier. This list aims to give some useful tips and tricks to help manage and keep unwanted symptoms at bay. Hydration Staying well hydrated can help with many forms of dysautonomia, especially those related to blood pressure, such as POTS. Adults are recommended to drink 3 litres throughout the day to maintain a healthy level of hydration. This can also include diet changes to foods with more fluid, such as custard, cream, yoghurt, ice cream, sorbet, ice pops, ice lollies, ice cubes, slushies, jelly, soup, gravy and sauces. Hydration tablets can also be a useful way to maximise the hydration you receive while drinking. Compression clothing Another way to aid the body in maintaining blood pressure is by wearing compression clothing. Compression stockings are designed to squeeze the legs to help blood flow back to the heart. It is recommended to use medical grade level 2 for optimum results. While stockings are most commonly recommended, studies have found that compressing both legs and abdomen was more effective than compressing only the legs. Abdominal binders may be more effective than using stockings alone. Small meal sizes After eating a large meal, lots of our blood is redirected to the stomach to aid in digestion, which can cause a rise in unwanted symptoms. Therefore , it is recommended to eat several smaller meals throughout the day rather than two or three large ones . Keeping cool Heat can be a trigger for people with autonomic dysfunction. To keep cool, you can use: Portable fans Water spray bottle Cooling towels, mats, pillows and vests Pace yourself Whether you are doing housework or spending time outdoors, pacing yourself can help stop fatigue and burnout. T aking things slowly can pay off in the long run, minimising long term symptoms after pushing yourself too hard. For example, when cleaning, make a plan to work in sections and small bursts, or even spread the task over multiple days. Pacing yourself during social occasions and giving yourself time to recover can also be very important as well. Connecting in alternative ways, such as video calls and online messaging, can help keep you connected while taking less of a physical strain. Meditation Meditation can help to activate the vagus nerve and calm an overactive nervous system. Meditation and mindfulness practices can lower heart rates and are an accessible form of self-care everyone can use, with plenty of resources online. Prioritise rest Prioritising rest is important for everyone, but especially those with chronic illnesses. Sleep disorders   can be common in individuals with autonomic dysfunction. You can maintain good sleep hygiene by following a nighttime routine, avoiding screens before bed, and practicing relaxation techniques. For more information on sleep hygiene Click Here Learning to say no Saying no is an important form of self-care, as you are putting your health first. This can be difficult at first, especially if prior to your illness you always made yourself available. Saying no when you are feeling strained and need a break can stop flare ups and a worsening of symptoms in the long run. Using mobility aids The use of physical aids such as wheelchairs and mobility scooters can help to increase your mobility and independence. Alternatively, the use of electric bikes can be a great option for those who feel uncomfortable using wheelchairs or mobility scooters. E-bikes can also offer low-level exercise and aid users in travelling greater distances independently. If you struggle to walk long distances, a lightweight camping stool can be useful when there's a lack of benches. Ask for help If you have recently become sick, asking for help can feel very difficult, especially if you were previously an independent person. Asking for help can lower your physical strain, and your friends and family will most likely be happy to lend a hand. Avoid Triggers Dysautonomia has many triggers; some of the most common include: Heat Standing for long periods of time Physical exertion Large meals Dehydration Stimulants such as tea, coffee, or alcohol Keeping a diary of your health and daily activities can help you recognise possible triggers. Some symptoms of dysautonomia can be delayed and only appear a few days after their cause; for example, you might feel okay after a walk and then have a worsening of symptoms two days later. Medication There are many lifestyle changes that help to control dysautonomia symptoms, but seeing a doctor is very important. A doctor can diagnose you and offer medication to help manage your illness. It's usually a combination of lifestyle changes and medication that will help balance your illness. For more information on the process of getting a dysautonomia diagnosis Click Here

Address : Portsdown Hill Rd, Drayton, Portsmouth PO6 1BG Location Quirkily named "Big ol' Hill Top" on Google Maps, this scenic spot on Portsdown Hill offers panoramic views over the city of Portsmouth. This quieter alternative to the main viewpoint —just a few minutes down the road—may lack dining options, but the view is just as spectacular. Parking The car park stretches over 100 meters in length and is free of charge. There is a width restriction at the entrance, so larger vehicles such as motorhomes will be unable to access this location. It's also worth noting that there's a large drop-off towards the far end of the car park, where the surface transitions from concrete to gravel. Accessibility With a wonderful view without even needing to leave your car, this location can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages and abilities. The hillside features benches and lunch tables on a slight slope. Conclusion Portsdown Hill is an excellent destination for those looking for a place to stop for a picnic with spectacular views. The convenient parking makes this beauty spot perfect for visitors of all abilities.

Address: Portsdown Hill Rd, Cosham, Portsmouth PO6 3LZ Location Portsdown Hill offers panoramic views over the city of Portsmouth. Additionally, Mick's Monster Burgers is open 24 hours, seven days a week, providing convenient dining options. Parking The car park extends approximately 150 metres and is free of charge. There is no height restriction, making it accessible for all vehicle types. Accessibility With wonderful views without even needing to leave your car, this location is suitable for people of all abilities. There are numerous benches that run alongside the car park, as well as a few lunch tables located a few metres down a moderate slope. Just a few minutes down the road, visitors can also find the aptly named "Big ol' Hill Top" car park as marked on Google Maps. This smaller, quieter alternative features benches and lunch tables on a slightly less steep section of the hillside, with equally spectacular views. However, it offers fewer amenities, lacking food options. Click here for more details Conclusion Portsdown Hill is an excellent destination for those looking for a place to stop for food at any time of the day, with spectacular views. The convenient parking makes this beauty spot perfect for visitors of all abilities.

Address : Beach Car Park, West Wittering, Chichester PO20 8AJ Location Located at the mouth of Chichester Harbour, West Wittering has an attractive sandy beach with clear waters. Although largely undeveloped, the facilities include toilets, showers, parking and a café. West Wittering is a popular spot for bird-watching, with many waders and wildfowl visiting during the migratory season. Facilities Include: Cafe/restaurant Toilets First-aid point Showers Parking There is a very large car park that runs along the edge of the beach. Parking can be pricey and is not free for Blue Badge holders. There's a pay machine near the entrance, but I found the easiest way to pay was by scanning the QR code on the parking signs. You can also pay via their website, up to 48 hours after you leave. There are disabled parking spaces near the entrance, next to the main facilities. All-day parking costs- weekdays/weekends: £3.15/£6.45 1st Nov-31st Mar £7.30/£11 Apr-Oct £12.40/£14 1st May-30th Sep Image of parking sign below. Accessibility The beach can be accessed from many points along the car park, which can be useful for visitors who struggle to walk long distances. The lack of accessible walkways unfortunately makes the beach not suitable for standard wheelchair users. Specialized wheelchairs can be booked by phone or online. There is no charge, just a deposit of £20 which is fully refunded when the wheelchair is returned. These beach wheelchairs are popular, so it's advised to book in advance. There are two sizes of wheelchairs, suitable for users of all ages. To make a booking, you can call 01243 514143 (Monday to Friday 9:00-16:00) or click here for more information. The car park is very large, so finding a space shouldn't be an issue. If you struggle to walk long distances, you can use the car to access different points along the beach. When the tide is out, it can be a long walk to reach the seafront. There are accessible toilets available at every toilet block, including those at the car park entrance, Beach Café, and towards East Head. These facilities can be accessed using a RADAR key, which can be obtained from the Estate Office, Workshop, Beach Café, and Lifeguard Headquarters. Conclusion Overall, West Wittering Beach is a great place to visit for those who struggle to walk long distances, with parking available all along the beachfront. And with the option of booking specialized wheelchairs, West Wittering can be accessed by people of all abilities. It’s an ideal beach for sunbathing and paddling; as well as watersports such as surfing, windsurfing and kite-surfing, for more able visitors when conditions are right. The water is very clear and as the tide retreats, it leaves shallow lagoons of warm water - perfect for kids to splash and play. Open flat beach, with a few sand dunes Parking sign

GoPro's 2024 Hero, often referred to as Hero 4K in promotional materials, is the smallest and lightest camera they have released to date. But has too much been compromised to create this budget-friendly action cam? In this tech review , we'll cover the Hero's form factor, controls and shooting modes, as well as the overall user experience so you can determine if this product is right for you. Form Factor The GoPro Hero measures 47.7 millimetres in height, 56.6 millimetres in width, and 29.4 millimetres in thickness, and weighs only 86 grams. This makes it barely noticeable when worn on a helmet or chest mount. With a waterproof rating of up to 16 feet, the 2024 Hero is well-suited for water sports—no surprise coming from the biggest name in the action camera market. However, it's worth noting that this is lower than the 33-foot rating found on most of its previous higher-end models. One notable sacrifice GoPro made to accommodate the compact size—and to save costs—was removing the forward-facing selfie camera. This makes the device less suitable for bloggers or users who want to film with a selfie stick. While this wasn't a major issue for me, it could be a deciding factor for some potential buyers. The tiny 1.76 -inch display is perfectly usable, even in bright light, and provides an accurate representation of the colours you'll see in your footage. Controls, Shooting Modes, and Settings The GoPro Hero is operated with two buttons: one that quickly starts recording and another for turning the device on and off. All other functions are controlled via the touchscreen or voice commands. The Hero's focus on the beginner demographic is reflected in its menu system, which features only three shooting modes: 4K at 60 frames per second in 4:3 or 16:9 aspect ratios Slow motion (50% speed) Photo mode There's also an option for 1080p, which can be unlocked by using the camera in battery-saving mode. The settings are quite limited: they include voice control (which I didn’t find particularly useful), screen lock, and orientation lock. Beyond that, there aren't many customisation options—no sharpening or bit rate controls, with the camera limited to 8-bit recording. Experienced users might be disappointed by this lack of flexibility, especially if they're accustomed to higher-end models. Conversely, those seeking a simple, straightforward experience might find it perfectly sufficient. Video Quality The 2024 Hero features a 1/2.8-inch, 12-megapixel sensor, which is smaller and lower resolution than previous models that used a 1/1.9-inch, 27-megapixel sensor. This, coupled with the limited 8-bit video, results in footage that’s less impressive than many of its competitors. On the plus side, the tall 4:3 aspect ratio makes the device more adaptable for multi-platform media. It provides plenty of height for cropped TikTok or Instagram stories while still maintaining a wide enough frame for YouTube. This versatility makes it appealing for social media use, where the smaller sensor's limitations are less noticeable. A key point to note is the absence of in-body stabilisation. The footage must be stabilised in the Quick app, which significantly slows down the editing process—especially if you primarily edit on a PC or Mac, since GoPro discontinued support for their desktop software years ago. Overall, I would say the footage produced by the GoPro Hero is just about okay. While it performs adequately, there is noticeable noise and reduced clarity, especially in low-light conditions. However, considering its price point, this is understandable. Visit their website for a full list of specifications: Link User Experience The 2024 Hero came with a charging cable, mounting bracket, stickers, and easy-to-follow instructions. The simplified menu system makes the GoPro Hero 4K accessible to users of all experience levels. Setup is straightforward, though I found the touchscreen occasionally a bit fiddly and not very responsive. Once everything is configured, you can rely on the physical buttons for operation. Mounting the device is easy, with support for a wide variety of mounts—helmet, chest, necklace, selfie sticks, bike mounts, suction mounts, and more—this is one of GoPro’s strongest selling points. GoPro states that the battery can last just over 90 minutes in 4K and up to 140 minutes in battery-saving mode. I found these advertised times to be accurate and sufficient for my use case. It’s a bit disappointing, though, that you can't swap out the battery for longer recording sessions. This may also reduce the lifespan of the device. I personally found the camera particularly useful for filming POV shots for my YouTube channel . You can find the footage here: Link App The integrated Quik app is a key part of the user experience. It’s necessary for transferring stabilised files to your phone and offers some basic editing options, which can be handy for quick social media uploads. Connecting to the app is usually a smooth experience, with a successful connection about nine out of ten times. However, exporting videos to your phone—necessary for using the app’s stabilisation features—can be painfully slow. Saving high-quality videos can take hours, especially on non-high-end phones, making it almost impossible to work efficiently with 4K footage. This issue is exacerbated by the fact that GoPro discontinued support for their desktop processing/editing software years ago, forcing users to rely solely on mobile stabilisation, which is much less efficient. Long recordings are split into eight-minute clips that need to be processed separately and then stitched together later on, adding further steps and processing time. Because of these limitations, I couldn't recommend the 2024 Hero to buyers who primarily have a desktop workflow. While alternative stabilisation software exists, they still can't quite match GoPro’s own technology. Uploading 1080p footage is quicker, but still painful. At least the middle-of-the-road video quality makes the difference in resolution a bit of a non-issue. Still, it’s frustrating that GoPro actively removes features from their ecosystem. They offer a subscription service for automatic uploads and cloud storage, but I’m not interested in paying monthly fees. Who Is This Device For? GoPro clearly targets the budget-conscious and entry-level market with the 2024 Hero. It’s suitable for beginners who want to dip their toes into action cameras without too large of an investment. Would I Recommend It? I find it difficult to recommend the GoPro Hero 4K 2024 to anyone who wants to produce more than basic social media content. Its compact size is a major plus, and it works well for time-lapses . However, the lack of in-body stabilisation is a significant drawback. Spending a little more on the higher-end numbers models—or even buying pre-owned—will generally provide much better value in the long run.

Address: Stokes Bay Rd, Gosport Location Stokes Bay is a shingle beach situated on the south coast of England, with views of the Isle of Wight. With multiple car parks, cafes, and family attractions, it's no surprise that it's a popular destination during the summer holidays. The high winds also make the bay a hotspot for water sports such as sailing and windsurfing. Dogs are welcome on the beach outside of the main holiday season, 1st Oct - 30th April. What's there? With lots of attractions spanning the length of the bay, we'll break them down between the three main car parks - Starting from the west with No. 2 Battery West Car Park, Pebble Beach Car Park in the centre, and Gilkicker Car Park on the east. Parking charges are the same along the beach; you can pay with cash, card, or online/phone. Summary  Motor Vehicle    £1.70 per hour  Trailer    £1.70 per hour  Over 5 hours   £9.60 per day  Motor Cycles   Free Charges apply every day between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m., and all have a height limit of 2.20 m. No. 2 Battery West Car Park When visiting the western side of Stokes Bay, visitors will find the Bayside Cabin Cafe and Diving Museum, as well as access to the coastal path, open green space and public toilets. Bayside Cabin Cafe: This charming cafe serves breakfast, snacks, hot food, and ice cream in a dog-friendly eatery with tables on a large beachside terrace. Diving Museum: Operated by volunteers, the Diving Museum provides an engaging insight into the history of diving. Exhibits include early diving helmets from the 1800s, as well as displays on commercial, military, and scientific diving explorations. It's a fascinating visit for those interested in underwater history and technology. Admission: Adults: £8.50 Youth (5-17 years): £5.50 (Disabled £4.50) Family (two adults and up to three children): £23 Under 5s: Free This location also has public toilets located next to the car park. The car park has: 4 chargers for electric cars 11 blue badge parking spaces MiPermit Location Code: 708521 Pebble Beach Car Park Located at the center of the bay, Pebble Beach Car Park holds the most attractions for families with young kids. At Pebble Beach Car Park, visitors will find: Pebbles Fish & Wine Bar Pebble Beach Cafe Canadian D-Day Memorial GoSport Splash Park and Kids Play area Open green with picnic tables Stokes Bay Sailing Club Pebbles Fish & Wine Bar: Pebbles Fish & Wine Bar is a coastal-themed restaurant that offers both indoor and outdoor seating, providing a relaxed and scenic dining experience. The menu includes a variety of options such as mains, side dishes, vegetarian choices, children’s meals, and desserts, all featuring freshly caught fish and seafood sourced from the local market. The restaurant also hosts jazz evenings, creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere. With free parking available after 7:00 pm, this is a great spot for an evening meal. The car park has: 10 camper spaces with no height restrictions 7 blue badge parking spaces Electric car charging Motorcycle parking Parking payment MiPermit codes: Location Code 708525 Location Code 708526 (2 bays - car & trailer) Location Code 708546 (Motorhome bays ) Motorhome bays have a higher charge of £3.50 per hour and £18.00 for over four hours. No overnight parking. Gilkicker Car Park Gilkicker Car Park offers fewer amenities, with only public toilets, picnic tables on an open green, and access to the coastal path. The location is also home to the Gosport Lifeboat Station and Gosport Angling Club. The car park has: 7 blue badge parking spaces Motorcycle parking MiPermit Location Code: 708510   (for 2 bays - car & trailer - Location Code 708511) Accessibility With plentiful beachside parking, Stoke Bay is ideal for visitors with limited mobility. There's the easy access to the promenade, which is level with frequent benches, making this location suitable for visitors using mobility scooters or wheelchairs. Conclusion In conclusion, Stokes Bay is the perfect destination for a family day out. With play facilities, museum, and selection for cafes, there is something for everyone at this seaside retreat. With convenient parking and an accessible promenade stretching 1.2 km along the bay, the beach can be enjoyed by visitors of all abilities.

Address : A245, Woking GU21 4HQ Accessible Cycle Routes In our "accessible cycle Routes" series, we share trails that are suitable for riders of a variety of abilities. These routes may be shorter than those typically found on popular cycling platforms, with gentler slopes and smoother surfaces. This makes them suitable for individuals with chronic health conditions or those in the early stages of recovery. Parking Parking at Horsell Common is free, with a limit of 2 hours. There are around 30 spaces, including two for blue badge holders. About the Route Click here for more information on Horsell Common's wildlife, pond, and influence on H.G. Wells's 1898 novel War of the Worlds. Horsell Common, a 355-hectare green space in Woking, Surrey, is a haven for dog walkers, cyclists, and families alike. Visitors can enjoy a mix of landscapes, including heathland, woodland, and meadows. Along this scenic circular route, you'll have the option to stop at the McLaren Centre, where you can take in breathtaking views – particularly during sunrise or sunset. Length: 3.6 miles Duration: 28 min Suitable for: Car park to McLaren - all levels Point 3 onwards - confident riders after rain A video of the route is included at the bottom of the page. Accessibility Point 1: The initial part of the route from the car park to the sand pit is gentle. The path is flat and well-maintained, so it should be easy to navigate. You'll find benches at the sand pit for a place to rest. The distance from the car park to the sand pit is approximately 400 metres. From the sand pit, turn right onto a long, straight path (a bridleway). This path is generally flat, but it can get muddy. You'll eventually reach a private road. Turn left onto it. This road has some potholes, but they can be easily avoided, and there's never been any traffic on my visits. If you're not planning on visiting the McLaren Centre, just keep following this road for the circular route. Point 2: If you're going to the McLaren Centre, follow the stone path from the private road, through a short alleyway. This path is fairly level, though bumpy. The stone path continues towards Fairoaks Airport. There also are lunch tables at this point in the trail. From this point, riders can decide which way to continue: return the way they came, which is the easier route, or continue the full circuit, which will be on a grass surface and often includes muddy, uneven surfaces, but still only minor slopes. If you plan on continuing the full route, there are three options to reach point 3: Following the full perimeter around the field to the raised wooden path. Crossing a field to the raised wooden path. (More challenging) Return the way you came and turn right at the private road. Crossing the field, which is often muddy, will take riders to a raised wooden path through the woodland. Make sure to keep your speed low around blind corners to avoid accidents; the wood platform can also be slippery when icy. To access the raised wooden path, riders will have to dismount and lift the bike. Point 3: At point 3 the raised woodland path meets the private road again. Turn right for the full circuit. Between points 3 and 4, there are a variety of surfaces. Expect muddy areas and potholes. There aren't many benches here, and while the slopes are gentle, they extend for long stretches. Follow the road until you eventually reach a car park. From there, you'll take the bridleway back up to the sand pit, and then back to the car park where you started. Point 4: At Point 4, there's a pond located just a short distance from the main bridleway. It's a great place to stop and take a break. The paths improve from this point, although there's a slight incline. Remember: Be prepared for varying surfaces throughout the route, especially between Points 3 and 4. The video below will give you a better understanding of the route and its conditions after rain. Conclusion Horsell Common is a welcoming destination for cyclists of all skill levels. Whether you're looking for a leisurely ride or a more challenging route, you'll find a path to suit your needs. With minor slopes, a 250-watt ebike can handle this location with ease as long as you avoid the muddy sections. The longer route is suited to riders who are confident that they can manage uneven surfaces seeking a quick, invigorating 30-minute ride. Path to sandpit

The Powools Handheld Vacuum is an affordable, compact vacuum priced at £34.99 on Amazon. With over 2,000 reviews and a 4.3-star rating, it’s one of the most budget-friendly vacuums on the market. But is it any good? In this tech review , we’ll explore both the positives and negatives of the Powools, as well as its value for money, to help you determine if it’s the right choice for you. At a Glance Pros Cons Affordable Less effective on stubborn messes Ease of use Cheap feeling construction Perfect for keeping on top of light mess What’s in the box? Before diving into the vacuum itself, let’s first look at what’s included: Vacuum Brush nozzle Length extender Two HEPA filters Charger Usability The Powools is ideal for cleaning small spaces and spots like skirting boards, banisters, and window sills. It’s lightweight, and the included length extender makes it easy to access hard-to-reach areas. Using the vacuum is straightforward—attaching the brush extender, loading and unloading the filters, and operating the device are simple tasks. The Powools features a built-in light to help spot dust and debris, although I rarely found myself needing to use it. As for dust pickup, this vacuum is effective on light dirt and debris. However, its suction power isn’t comparable to full-sized vacuum cleaners or even higher-end handheld models. Build Quality The build quality reflects its price point: it’s made of inexpensive plastic, which may feel a bit plasticky. However, it still feels sturdy enough for frequent use, and I never had concerns about it breaking down during operation. The battery life is also sufficient for most cleaning tasks. Value At under £40, I can’t really complain about its capabilities. It’s a welcome addition to our main home vacuum setup— robotic or traditional—and makes reaching those tricky spots much easier. Conclusion Overall, I think the Powools handheld vacuum fulfills its role as a budget device quite well. It’s suitable for users who prefer a lightweight alternative to a bulky vacuum and don’t want to spend a lot. It would also be handy for vehicle cleaning and makes a good accessory for campervans or motorhomes. I would recommend this device as long as you keep your expectations realistic. If you’re seeking higher performance, you’ll need to increase your budget. However, within its price range, the Powools is a viable and practical option.

In this blog post, I'll be walking through the process of installing a pair of JBL Stage 1 6.5-inch side door speakers. The process should be similar no matter your vehicle, but for this example, I'll be installing them into my Gen 3 Peugeot Expert (2016-onwards). This process will also be the same in the other PSA group vans, including the Citroën Dispatch, Vauxhall Vivaro, and Toyota Proace. For a more detailed, PSA-specific guide, click here. Item List: JBL 621 Stage 1: Link Trim removal set: Link Screwdriver Cable adapter for your vehicle's model Drill with a small drill bit (around 3mm) Pen or marker Electrical tape (if needed): Link Wire cutter/stripper (if needed): Link Optional: additional mounting hardware and sound deadening Step 1: Removing the Door Panel To begin, you'll need to remove any plastic trim so you can access the screws that hold the door panel in place. Once that's done, remove all the screws and save them for reinstallation later. Step 2: Removing the Old Speaker and Preparing the Wires Unclip the original speaker's cable and unscrew it from the door. You'll need to run the cables back into the door after removing the old speaker, as the JBL's connectors will be located on the inside. If your speaker was directly wired, you will need to cut and prep the wires so they can be reattached to the new speaker. Most modern cars should have adapter cables, which you'll be able to find online. Before moving on to installing the new speaker, check that the cable adapter connects securely. If not, compress the clip to eliminate any play. Step 3: Installing the New Speaker Tools needed: Drill Screwdriver Pen Electrical tape (if needed) Adapter cable Optional: Adapter bracket Sound damping mats or pads Note: I initially ordered an adapter bracket, but only two of its screw holes matched the new speaker. It was easier to reuse two of the original holes in the door and make an additional one to ensure the speaker would be secure. This method made the adapter bracket redundant. Position the new speaker and identify any reusable holes. Three screws should be enough to hold the speaker in securely. Mark the spots for any new holes. Also, mark the original holes and the points you will be screwing into on the speaker itself to make lining everything up easier later on. Use a thin drill bit to create the new holes. Take care not to damage the wires or window behind the panel. Note: I placed electrical tape around the point where the speaker will be fastened to the door as a simple, cost-effective sound-damping method. This worked well for me, but if you're planning to play loud, bass-heavy music, consider investing in proper sound-damping materials. Place the speaker into position, noting which side the cables inside the door will need to be on, and use tape to secure them. This will prevent the cables from getting caught or pinched by the window. Once everything is aligned, connect the adapter cable. Screw the speaker into place using the original screws in their original holes and the new screws included with the speaker into the newly drilled hole. Be careful not to overtighten the screws, as they can pull on the rubber of the speaker. Tip: Test the speaker before fully tightening all screws—this simplifies troubleshooting if there's an issue. Step 4: Reinstalling the Door Panel Make sure that any plastic clips are properly aligned, facing the correct direction; otherwise, the panel won't fit onto the door. Lift the top of the door panel over the rubber trim along the window. It should hang in place, making it easier to push the clips back in. Finally, screw in the screws you saved earlier. The last step is to reinstall any plastic trim that was removed earlier. Note: If you're not using an amplifier, don't expect a huge increase in volume; the new speakers may even sound quieter because they require more power to drive. However, you should notice improved clarity. Also, if your new side door speakers include tweeters, you might need to adjust the EQ settings on your head unit to reduce harshness, as you'll have more high frequencies than before. For more van content, visit my YouTube channel here . Click here for a full list of all our campervan conversion posts

In this blog post, I'll be walking through the process of installing new speakers into a Gen 3 Peugeot Expert (2016-onwards). This process will also be the same in the other PSA group vans, including the Citroën Dispatch, Vauxhall Vivaro, and Toyota Proace. For this example, I'll be installing a pair of JBL Stage 1 6.5-inch side door speakers. Item List: JBL 621 Stage 1: Link Trim removal set: Link Screwdriver with six-lobe Torx screw heads: Link Cable adapter: Link Drill with a small drill bit (around 3mm) Pen or marker Electrical tape: Link Wire cutter/stripper (if needed): Link Optional: additional mounting hardware and sound deadening Step 1: Removing the Door Panel To begin, you'll need the trim removal set, which makes the process much easier, and a screwdriver with a six-lobe Torx head. The first step is removing the trim so you can access the screws that hold the panel in place. Carefully remove the trim around the door handle, the window switch, and the wing mirror. (See the video for more detail) Once the trim is removed, there are six screws to undo. These are located: Under the window switches Opposite the wing mirror Next to the door handle Further left of the door handle Next to the speaker At the bottom of the door panel Remove all the screws and save them for reinstallation later. Step 2: Removing the Old Speaker and Preparing the Wires Unclip the speaker cable and unscrew the four screws securing the old speaker. Use a trim remover to pry off the speaker, which is also secured with glue. Once the old speaker is out, cut a small hole in the rubber entry point so the cable can pass through into the door, following the other preexisting wires. This is necessary because the connector for the new speaker will be on the inside of the door. Before moving on to installing the new speaker, check that the cable adapter connects securely. If not, compress the clip to eliminate any play. Step 3: Installing the New Speaker Tools needed: Drill Pen Screwdriver Electrical tape Adapter cable Optional: Adapter bracket Sound damping mats or pads Note: I initially ordered an adapter bracket, but only two of its screw holes matched the new speaker. It was easier to reuse two of the original holes in the door and make an additional one to ensure the speaker would be secure. This method made the adapter bracket redundant. Position the new speaker and identify the reusable holes. Mark the spot for the new hole. Also, mark the original holes and the points you will be screwing into on the speaker itself to make lining everything up easier later. Use a thin drill bit to create the new hole. Take care not to damage the wires or window behind the panel. Note: I placed electrical tape around the points where the speaker will be fastened to the door as a simple, cost-effective sound-damping method. This worked well for me, but if you're planning to play loud, bass-heavy music or install a more powerful speaker, consider investing in proper sound-damping materials. Place the speaker into position, noting which side the cable's inside the door will need to be on, and use tape to secure them. This will prevent the cables from getting caught or pinched by the window. Once everything is aligned, connect the adapter cable. Screw the speaker into place using two of the original screws in their original holes, and one of the new screws included with the speaker in the newly drilled hole. Be careful not to overtighten the screws, as this can pull on the rubber of the speaker. Tip: Test the speaker before fully tightening all screws—this simplifies troubleshooting if there's an issue. Step 4: Reinstalling the Door Panel Make sure all the plastic clips are properly aligned and in the door panel, not in the metal door itself. Use a trim remover if needed. The clips must face the correct direction; otherwise, the panel won't fit onto the door. Lift the top of the door panel over the rubber trim along the window. It should hang in place, making it easier to push the clips back in. Finally, screw in the screws you saved earlier. The last step is to reinstall the plastic trim pieces. Note: If you're not using an amplifier, don't expect a huge increase in volume; the new speakers may even sound quieter because they require more power to drive. However, you should notice improved clarity. Also, if your new side door speakers include tweeters, you might need to adjust the EQ settings on your head unit to reduce harshness, as you'll have more high frequencies than before. For more van content, visit my YouTube channel here . Click here for a full list of all our campervan conversion posts