Why 2020 has been good for England's beavers

Homes for these "ultimate environmental engineers" have been set up in enclosures across England.

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Brexit: Ministers unveil next steps in England's farming policy

The government says the post-Brexit plans for farm payments are the most significant for 50 years.

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Rural hospitals are under siege from COVID-19 – here's what doctors are facing, in their own words

Hospitals are losing staff to quarantines as rural case numbers rise, and administrators fear flu season will make make it worse. And then there's the politics.

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In rural America, resentment over COVID-19 shutdowns is colliding with rising case numbers

Coronavirus cases have risen sharply across the Mountain West, Midwest and plains. Over 70% of nonmetropolitan counties are now "red zones," suggesting viral spread is out of control.

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Rural health cooperatives are challenged by connectivity and social distancing -- but are innovating

The pandemic has exacerbated existing issues of connectivity and access, but providers and patients are finding creative solutions.

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Price of plastic carrier bags in England to double to 10p next year

The fee for single-use bags will rise to 10p and be extended to all shops from April 2021.

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UK to set limits on harmful airborne particles

A new UK target will be set to protect people from the effects of breathing in tiny particles.

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ICU beds are scarce in low-income areas

New research on ICU beds in hospitals reveals how starkly a person's ZIP code affects access to COVID-19 care.

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Coronavirus: Will lockdown easing see more of us using rivers?

There has been a surge in people visiting waterways after the lockdown was eased, outdoor groups say.

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Red kite 30-year Chilterns project a 'conservation success'

The "near-extinct" species is thriving 30 years after being reintroduced in England.

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