And now for something completely different: some positive news

Let us know what constructive stories, innovations or people you would like to read about in our new Half full series

Why is the news overwhelmingly bad? It's a question that those reporting current affairs have been asked since the first town crier cleared his throat hundreds of years ago. The answer is banal: ordinary people leading quiet lives do not often make for thrilling stories.

War, politics, crime, terrorism, destitution: all bring out extremes in human nature that make for compelling reading, stir up our compassion, anger or horror - all emotions that make us feel alive and engaged.