Breathable solids ...at last!

Scientists in Spilsby have produced a world-first discovery by publishing work on the first breathable solid materials.

It was previously assumed that the idea of oxygenated, breathable, solid-state materials were an area of science consigned to fiction.  However, after many years of arduous testing, the first official recorded incident was filmed by lab technicians at the Spilsby Institute of Respiratory Studies.

The male test subject is seen to be in much distress during the initial phase after insertion of the "Breathe-easy Briquettes" (Registered Trademark), but appears to be breathing naturally after just half an hour.

Early side-effects include bloodshot eyes, nose and throat and purple pigmentation of the entire bodily skin coverage. Although this is a minor irritation which is said to subside upon removal of the briquettes and several days of intensive care at the institute.

Professor Serge Woodcock of the Budgens Surgery, Woodhall Spa had this to offer:

"These scientists have really broke the mould here with their ingenious solids research.  Once the initial trials are over, we can really start getting to work on possible uses in this new era of Scientific discovery.  Our hope is that one day we will all feel comfortable just breathing in sand or even muck. The prospect is very exciting!"