37 h. ago England ruthlessly privatised cricket – Australia embraces it with constant public displays of affection | Emma John

If there is one takeaway for England from this Ashes tour it should be how cricket thrives in a nation where it is readily and freely available as the dominant summer pastimeThe drive to Bowral in New South Wales takes you through some of Australia’s most English countryside. Pastoral hills roll right up to the roadside and finish in grassy verges, flecked with yellow and white wildflowers. Alliums stand sentinel around vibrant lawns. Even the eucalypts are cosplaying as beech and oaks. You might be in Hampshire, if it weren’t for the dazzling sun.Just a few roads from the high street – storefronts full of fancy cookware and country casuals – is the Bradman Oval. This small ground, with its pre-loved outfield, has become a pilgrimage stop for the Australian cricketing faithful. Head out to the middle and you’re walking across the sacred turf where Sir Don honed his skills. Stand at the crease, look past the white picket fence, and you can see the family homes where he grew from boy ...

Politics

40 h. ago Rainforest that's 'one of UK's most magical places' just short drive from Wales

Visitors are astonished to discover a magical woodland, with many wondering how such a beautiful place has managed to remain a ‘secret’ from some people for so long

Politics

49 h. ago Keep your patio and drive clear of ice with free household item everyone throws out

As we're set to see more snow, sleet, and ice this winter there are simpler and cheaper ways to ensure your keeping your property and roads safe - this one may surprise you

Politics

66 h. ago Huge recruitment drive in Cardiff schools with more than 150 new jobs

With almost 500 new specialist places being made available over the next two years, the council will employ more teaching assistants, primary and secondary teachers

Transport

2 d. ago ‘It’s not going to do us any favours’: Rural pubs fear stricter drink

The drink-drive limit may be reduced to 22 micrograms in England and Wales, bringing those nations into line with Scotland

Politics

4 d. ago Drivers warned not to drink at all as limit set to be slashed in England and Wales

Transport minister Lillian Greenwood urged pub-goers to leave their cars at home or have an alcohol-free beverage

Events

1 week ago People drive 140 miles just to eat one thing as family's business blows up

Spud Fam has turned jacket potatoes into a family-run sensation that draws crowds from near and far

Transport

4 w. ago LIZ JONES'S DIARY: 'We've both been rejected,' I tell her. 'But now we have each other'

Why does your body always let you down at a crucial moment? On the morning I was leaving to drive to Wales, I woke with a stye on my left eye. It's just typical.

Politics