HERE COME THE GIRLS! CELEBRITIES UNITE TO TAKE PART IN THE UK’S LARGEST WOMEN-ONLY 5K RUN AND UNITE TO FIGHT BREAST CANCER
This year a host of female celebrities are taking part in the UK’s biggest women-only 5K fun run, in London’s Hyde Park on Sunday 5th September 2010 in support of Breakthrough Breast Cancer.

Television presenter Sarah Cawood, Hollyoaks actress Nathalie Emmanuel (who plays the character Sasha Valentine), Skins star Lisa Blackwell (who played the character Pandora), Eastenders actress Simone James (who plays the character Becca) will all run alongside thousands of mothers, sisters and daughters to raise money for a cause close to their hearts.

Also running for Breakthrough Breast Cancer are fitness experts Deanne Berry and Angie Dowds, actress and best selling author Emma Kennedy, model and actress Jo Emma Larvin, actress Lucy Briggs-Owen, and presenter Jacqui Joseph

Sarah Cawood said “I'm so excited to be running this year's adidas Women's 5K Challenge in support of Breakthrough Breast Cancer. It is such a fun day out, with thousands of women of all ages and sizes running for such a fantastic cause. I strongly urge everyone to sign up today and get training in the summer sunshine!"

For the third year running, adidas is the title sponsor of this lively female fun run, and Breakthrough Breast Cancer is this year’s charity of choice - sign up now and join thousands of women to run, walk or jog to raise money for Breakthrough’s life-saving work.

The celebrities taking part will be wearing the new adidas Pink Ribbon Running Collection, which is also available to purchase. Gorgeous and practical, it is the perfect kit to train in and to wear on the day of the run, plus 10% from all items in the range is donated to Breakthrough Breast Cancer, so you can run in style and at the same time help in the fight against breast cancer. ClimaCool fabrics and FORMOTION styling offer true performance, with feminine pieces such as the bonded fleece top and running tight, all finished off with the breast cancer pink ribbon. The range will be available from July in selected retailers* nationwide, and will generate funds to raise money for the 46,000 women diagnosed with breast cancer each year.

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the UK, and nearly 1,000 women die of the disease each month. Breakthrough Breast Cancer is leading the fight against the disease by developing new treatments, raising awareness and campaigning for better services for patients. By running the adidas Women’s 5K Challenge or purchasing something from the Pink Ribbon Running Range, you will help the charity continue to fund work dedicated to the prevention, treatment and ultimate eradication of breast cancer.
The adidas Women’s 5K Challenge is open to women of all ages and abilities so why not encourage female friends and family to join in, and sign up today! When signing up, remember to put Breakthrough Breast Cancer as the chosen charity and £5 will automatically be donated, and why not garner the support of friends and family as well by asking for sponsorship? Everyone on the Breakthrough Breast Cancer team will receive a bright pink t-shirt and lots of support on the day. It will not only be a day to remember, but one that will raise funds and save lives.

Sign up at : http://www.womenschallenge.co.uk/ or call: 020 7025 2422

“To know me is to know my love of cashmere. I design with it and personally live in it all year round. It’s my favourite thing to have next to my skin. For me, Cashmere Mist was instinctual. It had to be”.
Donna Karan
For Breast Cancer Awareness month this October, the Cashmere Mist Eau de Parfum Spray will include a pink ribbon deco on both the bottle and carton.
Funds raised from the purchase of products in the UK go to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation for its breast cancer research study at the Royal Marsden Institute of Cancer Research (in the UK).
Donna Karan Cosmetics will make a donation of £2 per bottle in connection with the sales of the Limited Edition Donna Karan Cashmere Mist Eau de Toilette Spray, to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. For more information go to www.bcrfcure.org
Cashmere Mist’s engaging warm scent is soft and sensual, creating the sublime sensation of skin wrapped in cashmere. An intoxicating sheer floral, it combines the essences of Moroccan Jasmine, Lily of the Valley and the freshness of Bergamot, against a warm background of Sandalwood, Amber and Musk.
*While stocks last
Cashmere Mist BCA EDP 100ml RRP £66.00

DO YOU KNOW AN IRIS?
Calling all Irises…

Crabtree & Evelyn’s new fragrance, Iris, will be unveiled in all stores on 9th September. To help celebrate the launch, Crabtree & Evelyn are searching for people called IRIS to share their opinions on this captivating new scent.

If your name is Iris, Crabtree & Evelyn will give you a free 100ml bottle of the fragrance to sample. If you know an Iris, please tell her to log on to www.crabtree-evelyn.co.uk/iris for full details.

Inspired by the delicate beauty of an exquisite single blossom, Crabtree & Evelyn IRIS epitomizes the modern woman who blends timeless elegance and femininity with an essence of creative spirit. By using the finest ingredients, including the classic Iris rhizome, also known as Orris root, and the lively top notes of natural Italian bergamot and cassis, Iris is an elegant yet fresh scent for day or evening.

The delicate fragrance is also available in a beautiful new body range; nourishing body wash, lotion and cream to soothe and hydrate, as well as the inspired IRIS home fragrance collection of exquisite drawer liners and contemporary diffusers.

For more information please go to our website, www.crabtree-evelyn.co.uk/iris

HIGH STREET FASHION WEEK UNVEILS RETAILER LINE-UP FOR 2010 JAMEELA JAMIL TO LAUNCH 2010 CAMPAIGN AT THE GLAMMYS
23 of the UK’s hottest high street brands have signed up to this year’s High Street Fashion Week, which for the second year will centre on Oxford Street, from 6-10 September 2010. The high street’s precursor to London Fashion Week will kick-off in style at The Mayfair Hotel with The Glammys. Hosted by T4 presenter and new fashion IT girl, Jameela Jamil, the inaugural awards will see high street fashion fans across the country crown their favourite fashion retailers for the new season.

The public vote is now open at http://www.highstreetfashionweek.com.

High Street Fashion Week 2010 Line-Up
BHS - Blue Inc – Debenhams - Dorothy Perkins – Evans –
French Connection – H&M - House of Fraser - John Lewis - La Senza - M&S – Moss Bros – Next – Oasis – Office – People Tree - River Island – Schuh – Selfridges - The Plaza – Uniqlo – Wallis - Warehouse

Jameela Jamil, says, “High street fashion in this country is amazing and as a massive fan, I can’t wait to see who comes out on top at The Glammys. I voted online this morning and think the competition for the new season is fierce! I’ll definitely be hitting Oxford Street in High Street Fashion Week for some of those new heels and the dresses look fantastic.”

The public can choose their favourites in eight Glammy award categories, which embrace wearable and relevant fashion for all sizes and ages.

The Glammy Award Categories
· The A/W 10 Look - the best overall look for AW10
· Perfect Plus Size - chic and on-trend fashion for curvy girls
· Eco-Warrior – excellence in ethical and green fashion
· Finishing Touch – the must-have Autumn accessory
· Fabulous 40s – savvy style for the over 40s
· Boy Wonder - best of the AW10 menswear
· Dream Dressing Room – fitting rooms with the fashion factor
· Power Window - most creative window on the High Street


High Street Fashion Week will see fashion fever once again grip London’s West End as the UK’s fashion flagship stores on Oxford Street unite for a fashion week dedicated entirely to the public, while the fashion press congregate for the start London Fashion Week a week later.

With a style-packed calendar of events organised throughout High Street Fashion Week, retailers will be treating shoppers to a spectacular public fashion show, celebrity hosted champagne receptions, fashion tutorials and exclusive discounts on the new Autumn/Winter 10 ranges.

Voting for The Glammys closes at http://www.highstreetfashionweek.com/ on 3 September 2010. Every vote cast will be submitted to an exclusive competition to win the nominated styles in the Glammy award categories. For terms and conditions visit the High Street Fashion Week website.

VIVIENNE WESTWOOD BIRTHDAY PARTY
Event: Vivienne Westwood celebrates 2 years in Princes Square
Date: 3rd September
Time: 6pm – 8pm
Location: Vivienne Westwood, Princes Square
Event Information: On Friday 3rd September Scotland’s only standalone Vivienne Westwood store will celebrate 2 years in Princes Square.
To celebrate Vivienne Westwood will be holding an exciting in-store event, offering 10% off selected items and providing a host of birthday entertainment and treats! Make up experts from MAC cosmetics & SMUJJ Beauty will be on hand, and there will be specialist styling from James Margey Hairdressers. There will also be Tunnocks Tea Cakes aplenty, drinks from LA Bars and a guest DJ throughout the evening
With only a handful of boutique stores in desirable locations such as London, Milan and Paris the opening of the store in 2008 saw Princes Square chosen as the ideal location to house the designer brand. Over the past two years the store has flourished and showcased some of the most exciting offerings from the eccentric designer including the much coveted Melissa shoes and more recently the new Lee Jeans collection.
For more information please visit:http://www.princessquare.co.uk

HOUSE OF FRASER GIFT TIME, 26TH AUGUST - 12TH SEPTEMBER
Love a gift that gives you skincare choices? Choose your repair serum, a 7 day supply of Perfectionist [CP+] Wrinkle Lifting Serum or Idealist Skin Refinisher. Then choose your moisturizer, a deluxe 14-day supply of TimeZone or Hydrationist. A full-size lipstick, 4 new Pure Color EyeShadows, plus a chic travel bag and more.

Includes a choice of skincare:
PERFECTIONIST CP+ WRINKLE LIFTING SERUM FOR LINES/WRINKLES/AGE SPOTS, 7ML OR IDEALIST PORE MINIMIZING SKIN REFINISHER, 7ML
TIME ZONE LINE AND WRINKLE REDUCING CREME SPF15, N/C SKIN, 15ML OR Hydrationist Maximum Moisture crème, N/C SKIN, 15ml
Gentle Eye Makeup Remover 50ml
Eyeshadow Quad Compact with Applicator. NEW Pure Color Shades: Ivory Box, Tea Biscuit, Silver Ball and Amethyst
Pure Color Crystal Lipstick in Crystal Pink
SUMPTUOUS BOLD VOLUME LIFTING MASCARA IN BLACK
Raspberry Croco Travel Bag
Qualifier: Free with any two or more Estée Lauder purchases

ELEMIS LAUNCHES EAU DE PARFUM EXOTIC
Close your eyes…take a deep breath…sense the mystery…escape to a faraway place. And…reconnect

Following the successful spring launch of Elemis’ first active fragrance Eau de Parfum, Elemis the leading British skincare and spa brand would like to introduce its second creation Eau de Parfum Exotic. A beautiful, mysterious accord of sensual and exotic blends.

Elemis exotic is an intoxicating blend of warming Sri Lankan Cinnamon Bark, Pink Pepper, Clove Bud Oil chased beautifully by the floral heart of Ylang Ylang, Indian Jasmine Sambac and precious Tuberose. As the fragrance evolves the bass notes of Frankinscense, Somali Incense, Cedarwood and Sandalwood linger and are a fixative. Close your eyes and in one deep breath and let the exotic notes transport you to a faraway place. The spiciness of the top note, floral of the heart note and the accord of that final warm experience. An extension of you.

Warm Top Notes: Pink Pepper, Clove Bud and Cinnamon Bark

Precious Floral Heart Notes: Ylang Ylang, Tuberose, Indian Jasmine Sambac

Woody Base Notes: Cedarwood, Somali Incense, Sandalwood

Elemis Eau de Parfum – RRP £35 for 28ml

Available September 2010 at Elemis spas, salons, Elemis counters at Debenhams, John Lewis, House of Fraser, Harvey Nichols plus online at http://www.timetospa.co.uk or via mail order by calling Elemis on 01278 727830

12 YEARS…10 COMPETITIONS…8 FEATURES…3 PARTIES…1 HUGE WEEKEND! SOUTH COAST’S BIGGEST ACTION SPORTS FESTIVAL HOSTS NEW FEATURES FOR 2010
The established Animal Windfest event held annually at Sandbanks, Poole will host a series of new features in its 12th year, to be staged between 10th - 12th September 2010.

The only free daytime beach sports festival in the UK, with three nights of ticketed evening parties, Windfest attracts the biggest names in the extreme sports industry and at least 10,000 visitors each year.

Going skyward for the first time ever, Windfest will play host to the Red Bull Matadors at 2.30pm on Sunday 12th September for an exhilarating air display with Red Bull VIP area on the beach below.

Two new sports will also add to the visual feast this year; Ultimate Beach Frisbee and Surf Ski – a long, narrow, lightweight kayak with an open (sit-on-top) cockpit, usually with a foot pedal controlled rudder. Surf ski racing will be held off the beach on both Saturday and Sunday.

Visitors to the event will be able to watch a 16-strong team Ultimate Beach Frisbee tournament at advanced level, yet members of the public will be welcome to enter and join in the competition.

Fans of Stand Up Paddle boarding (SUP) will be able to enter a new distance paddle around Brownsea Island on Saturday afternoon. Open to anyone, the paddle will run separately to the professional’s SUP race earlier in the day, organised by the sport’s governing body, BSUPA.

Organiser, Gary Willingham, is pleased to illustrate that despite Windfest’s maturity, the event continues to expand. He says: “The ever popular favourite aspects of the event continue to be in place whilst exciting new additions to the schedule have been agreed this year, such as the Red Bull Matadors which will bring yet another dimension to the event. Showcasing further beach and water sports which have not been seen competitively here before, the 2010 Animal Windfest will hopefully give further entertainment and attract visitors. We’re very excited about this year’s event.”

Other features throughout the two days include professional kitesurfing and windsurfing competitions, as well as free have-a-go trial opportunities for amateurs, fun slalom racing, Animal Bike Show, King Ramps’ skate ramp sponsored by Red Bull, wakeboarding slider pools, equipment demos and full Kids Zone with live acoustic music.

For more information on all aspects of the event go to www.animalwindfest.co.uk

GOODWOOD REVIVAL
Goodwood will be holding the Goodwood Revival from the 17th – 19th September. It is the world’s most popular historic motor race meeting and the only event of its kind to be staged entirely in the nostalgic time capsule of the 1940s, 50s and 60s that relives the glory days of Goodwood Motor Circuit.
A huge amount of effort goes into dressing up for this event, with many women choosing to wear costumes from the different decades, the results is a real ‘step back in time’ atmosphere. . The circuit has a celebratory feel with over 300 classic cars including vintage Ferraris and Jaguars worth millions of pounds, as well as numerous theatrical embellishments – including a period fairground, the famed Revival Market with many shops and stalls selling pre-1966 wares and goods, and dozens of character actors mingling in the crowds. On the Saturday they will be celebrating Ladies Day, giving all the ladies a chance to get into costume and attempt to win the prize of ‘Best Dressed.’ This is followed on Sunday with celebratory judges James Martin from Saturday Kitchen, Lloyd Grossman and Nick Mason from Pink Floyd. The mood is heightened as the skies overhead reverberate to the roar of wartime fighter aircraft including Spitfires and Hurricanes

The Goodwood Revival runs from September 17 to 19. To buy tickets visit http://www.goodwood.co.uk

NATIONAL TRUST RELIEVES BANK HOLIDAY GETAWAY STRESS
The National Trust is joining the drive to make the August bank holiday journeys less painful by setting up its own unique network of alternative ‘motorway service areas’.

The Bank Holiday is traditionally one of the busiest weekends for holiday traffic. According to the Highways Agency Friday evening, Saturday lunchtime and Monday afternoon are expected to be the busiest on the roads this weekend, especially on the main holiday routes, as people set out and return from short breaks or day trips.

As Mark Harold, National Trust Director for the South West, explained: “This weekend many holiday makers will make the journey to the South West heading for the beautiful coast and countryside, and with Britain’s roads taking the brunt of the holiday traffic we’re encouraging people to plan around the congestion to make the journey an enjoyable part of the holiday.”

Instead of a hurried burger and loo break at a motorway service area, the National Trust has identified over 30 of its places which are conveniently located only a few miles from motorway junctions and A roads.

These places, which include built properties and countryside locations, can provide a more relaxing break with plenty of space to park, picnic, walk the dog and enjoy tasty local, seasonal food during the holiday getaway.

Ideas include Killerton, an 18-century house with a choice of two tea-rooms, and picnic areas in its beautiful gardens and parkland, just seven miles from Junction 28 of the M5- a stretch of motorway that’s expected to see more than 3,500 vehicles an hour heading for the West Country at peak times.

Other suggestions include Stourhead, a magnificent landscape garden and mansion just 2∏ miles off the A303.

Chartwell, is also well worth considering as a break for people heading around the M25 towards the Channel Tunnel and Dover ferries as it’s only 6 ∏ miles from Junction 5 of the M25. The full list highlighting the major holiday routes, is on the National Trust website at: http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/bankholiday

The National Trust initiative ties in with the ‘Don’t just drive, Discover’ campaign launched by the Highways Agency for the summer holidays. The Agency, which manages England’s network of motorways and major A roads, has been urging families to plan their journeys as much as they plan their holidays and take breaks to avoid tiring and stressful drives. [1]
"In contrast to the daily commute, the holiday getaway is made up of longer, often unfamiliar journeys,” said Steve Crosthwaite, head of the Highways Agency's National Traffic Control Centre.

“The desire to arrive by a certain time, together with all the expectation that has built up over many months and a long journey ahead, mean the stress factors can be greater. No-one wants a bad start to their summer holiday, so we're encouraging drivers to help themselves to avoid delays where they can."

"Just a few minutes checking the weather and traffic conditions before you set out can take a lot of hassle out of your journey. You should allow plenty of time for your journey and include a rest break every couple of hours.”

[1] The major road network is monitored all year round by the Agency's National Traffic Control Centre (NTCC). Traffic data feeds into a range of information services that drivers can use to get updates on any delays or disruptions ahead, including signs and signals, information screens at motorway service areas, and the website http://www.highways.gov.uk/summer

GATWICK PREPARES FOR BUSY BANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND
With the end of school summer holidays soon approaching, Gatwick is preparing for a busy August bank holiday weekend.

More than half a million passengers will be flying through Gatwick between Thursday (26 August) and Monday (30 August) with Friday being the busiest day with approximately 123,000 passengers.

Stewart Wingate, CEO, Gatwick said, "This year we have delivered excellent levels of customer service particularly in security, as passengers clear our security areas in less than five minutes over 95% of the time - we are committed to ensure this continues this weekend."

The summer sunspots are proving the most popular with Gatwick passengers this bank holiday weekend with travellers flying away to guaranteed sunshine. Dalaman in Turkey, Malaga in Spain, Faro in Portugal, Palma de Mallorca in the Balearics and Alicante in Spain are the top five destinations. Dublin, at number six, is the most popular city-break destination with Corfu at number seven. Orlando, number eight is the favourite long-haul holiday spot. Sharm El Sheikh (number nine) and Ibiza (10) complete the top ten.

THE PORTRAIT RESTAURANT EXTENDS ITS SUCCESS TO SATURDAYS, FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER
The Portrait Restaurant is proud to announce it will open for dinner on Saturday evenings from 4th September. With spectacular views and a sleek interior, the Portrait Restaurant at the National Portrait Gallery is the perfect spot to enjoy a relaxing meal with family or meet with old friends before heading out to the West End.

The Portrait Restaurant’s success has been rapidly growing ever since it’s opening a decade ago. The expansion into Saturday evening openings is testament to this – with the number of calls for Saturday evening bookings becoming too many to ignore. Mark Tucker, General Manager at the Portrait Restaurant says “We are very pleased to be opening on Saturday evenings, with such a varied clientele demand is high. We are confident Saturday evenings will be a massive success and hopefully please regular guests and visitors from out of town alike”

Head up to the third floor marble topped bar to begin the evening in style. Try one of the tailor made cocktails such as ‘Jasmine Blossom’ – a blend of Prosecco, fresh orange pulp, orange juice, Absolut Mandarin & homemade jasmine syrup. The wine list includes a selection of biodynamic, organic and unique varieties.

Swedish Head Chef Katarina Todosijevic has taken the restaurant world by storm since she joined the Portrait Restaurant in 2005. One of Fay Machler’s Top 5 female chefs, her recipes are inspirational. The menu changes daily and includes specialities such as Scotch beef carpaccio, truffle cheese, pine nuts & rocket to start and Pollock, marsh samphire, brown shrimp & sorrel cream for main course.

To celebrate the launch of Saturday night openings, guests dining at the Portrait Restaurant on Saturday evenings in September will receive a voucher for a glass of champagne for themselves and a guest when returning for lunch or dinner until the end of November 2010. All of this is available over the breathtaking views of Trafalgar and Whitehall with the lights of the London night skyline shining on…
For bookings at The Portrait Restaurant, call 020 7312 2490 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

FOOD FOR THOUGHT FROM TRIBECA’S HIPPEST HOTEL
-Thompson’s Smyth Hotel launches new River to River Picnic Package from just £207-
New York’s 2010 River to River festival is rocking the city and with Smyth’s River to River Picnic Package, there’s still time for you to enjoy a piece of the all American pie!

Check in to the Thompson Smyth hotel for its tantalisingly tasty River to River Picnic Package this summer and not only will you be staying in the city’s hippest hotel, but you’ll be treated to complimentary gourmet hampers to take with you when you watch your favourite performers under the New York City skyline.

The festival features an array of entertainment, form outside screenings of classic movies including Broadway Danny Rose and Auntie Mame, to performances from The Battery Dance Company.
From just £207 per night, you will enjoy one of the stunning Queen Superior rooms and be treated to mouth-watering hamper menus crafted by Ed Cotton, Executive Chef of Plein Sud – Smyth’s brand new restaurant and Tribeca hot spot. During your stay you can choose from two gourmet picnics to take with you to River to River:

The European Picnic Basket: Pate, Sliced Charcuterie, Mini French Baguettes, Assorted Cheeses, French Breakfast Radishes with Fleur de Sel, Assorted Home-made Cookies, and a selection of bottled soft drinks, such as an old-fashioned Coca-Cola.

The Sandwich Picnic Basket: Assorted French baguette sandwiches (options include Jambon de Paris with Sweet Butter and Dijon, Pate, Marinated Red Pepper with Black Olive Tapenade, Jambon de Bayonne with Etorki Cheese, and Bresaola with Horseradish Mayonnaise) Also includes a fresh summer fruit salad, and a selection of bottled soft drinks, such as an old-fashioned Coca-Cola.

Smyth’s River to River Picnic Package is the perfect mini-break where you can let yourself get swept away watching enchanting movies against the backdrop of the eclectic New York skyline, soaking up the sounds of the world’s most inspiring musicians and watching the city’s sharpest choreographers, whilst indulging in the ultimate picnic experience.

Thompson Hotels’ Smyth Tribeca offers rates from £207 per room per night based on double occupancy. Including the following:
- One night in a Queen Superior room
- Choice of two Plein Sud picnic hampers
- Continental Breakfast
- Complimentary wi-fi

This offer is valid on weekend stays (Friday – Sunday) from now until the 5th September.
To book and for more information call 001 888-857-6984 or visit www.thompsonhotels.com
For a full listing of outdoor screenings visit http://www.rivertorivernyc.com/events/index.php

STAY AT THOMPSON TORONTO AND MINGLE WITH THE MOVIE MAKERS THIS TORONTO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
Toronto International Film Festival is the launching pad for the best Hollywood, and the rest of the world, has to offer! As the world watches who graces the red carpet, movie stars are made and dreams are broken. But when the lights go down on the famous and most glamorous film festival, the screen cognoscenti are set to head to the vibrant King West Village to celebrate in style in the city’s newest and chicest hot spot – Thompson Toronto.

Designed by New York based Studio Gaia, the 102-room hotel is sleek and elegant, with multiple dining and nightlife venues including a private rooftop bar/lounge with panoramic views of the city. A 125 foot wide by 12 foot high hand-painted, three dimensional mural of Toronto’s skyline by renowned Spanish artist Javier Mariscal is the focal point of the lobby, which has both an elegant and relaxed atmosphere, with dark oak hardwood floors and accents of red and orange. The hotel features an unprecedented 30,000 square feet of dining and event space, including a signature restaurant, operated by New York-based Scarpetta with Chef Scott Conant.

This September…
Stay at Thompson Toronto from just $250 US per night, to book call 001.888.550.8368 or visit http://www.thompsonhotels.com

Enjoy return flights to Toronto with British Airways from just £501 including taxes and charges, to book call 0844 493 0787 or visit http://www.ba.com/

The Toronto International Film Festival is taking place September 9-19, 2010. Recognised as the leading public film festival in the world, more than 300 films will be screened from 60+ countries. It is the launching pad for the best of Hollywood and international cinema, enjoyed by half a million enthusiastic film fans each year

REALLY WILD FOOD & COUNTRYSIDE FESTIVAL WITH ACCOMMODATION AT CELTIC HAVEN
Foodies and foragers looking for a ‘really wild’ weekend this September can combine a trip to coastal cottage resort Celtic Haven with a visit to the sixth annual Really Wild Food & Countryside Festival in St David’s, Pembrokeshire.

The Really Wild Food & Countryside Festival this year takes place from September 4 – 5 and is a celebration of food and countryside crafts originating from the wild. The weekend boasts walks and talks, cooking demonstrations from four top chefs, craft workshops and family entertainment including ferret races and welly wanging.

Held within sight of the sea and the ancient cathedral at St David’s, the festival boasts over 70 exhibitors and producers who will also be on hand to showcase the best of Pembrokeshire’s wild produce – with everything on offer having to be at least partly sourced from the wild.

Visitors to the festival can find accommodation at the nearby Celtic Haven cottage resort. Once the estate of Lord St David, Celtic Haven is ideally located within an hour’s drive of St David’s in a quiet position in Tenby, inside Pembrokeshire National Park. The resort offers 26 guest cottages from romantic cottages for two dating back to the 12th century, to six bedroom cottages suitable for up to 12 guests.

Accommodation during the Really Wild Food and Countryside Festival starts from £386 for a short break from September 3 -6, or £515 for a week in a one bedroom cottage suitable for two people. A two-bedroom cottage starts from £562 for a short break, or £750 for the week.

Celtic Haven boasts the only Elemis Premier Spa in West Wales. Dining options include the resort’s own Waves Italian-influenced bar and restaurant and guests also enjoy use of all the resort’s free leisure facilities, including sauna, gym, indoor swimming pool, all-weather tennis courts and the nine-hole headland golf course.

For more information on the festival, please visit: http://www.reallywildfestival.co.uk/ or to book accommodation with Celtic Haven please visit: http://www.celtichaven.co.uk or call 01834 870 000.

WINE TASTING AND THAMES FESTIVAL FIREWORKS
Le Pont de la Tour is delighted to announce that the next fine wine tasting will be in collaboration with renowned Priorat producer – Celler Vall Llach, Porrera – on September 7th 2010 (from 6.30pm -8pm). Founded by the singer Lluís Llach, and the notary Enric Costa, this globally acclaimed winery combines indigenous grapes from magnificent old vines with cutting-edge technology to produce exceptional wines. Places for this exclusive evening are limited with tickets costing just £10, to book please call 020 7403 8403.

September 11th and 12th is the Mayor’s Thames Festival, and as well as being a convenient refreshment spot for those attending events on the river, Le Pont de la Tour is also offering a luxury way to experience the famous firework ceremony which closes the celebrations each year. Guests can enjoy Champagne and an indulgent three course meal (sample menu: Lobster bisque with dill, Cured ham wrapped monkfish, with squid risotto and sauce bordelaise, Valrhona chocolate tart with Devonshire pouring cream) before boarding a private boat to watch the fireworks, which are world renowned for their expertly configured colours, shapes and sequences fired by celebrity pyrotechnics. Tickets are priced at £90, to book call 020 7403 8403.

Le Pont de la Tour, Butlers Wharf, 36 Shad Thames, London SE1 2YE
http://www.lepontdelatour.co.uk

AUTUMN ART AT THE CORNWALL HOTEL SPA & ESTATE
Cornish getaway hosts art weekend with esteemed artist Nichol Wheatley on 18th and 19th September 2010
As the autumn hues descend on the south west coast, The Cornwall Hotel Spa & Estate will host its first two day art course on Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th September in the extensive picturesque grounds of the manor house Estate.

Participants will be taught by esteemed Scottish Artist Nichol Wheatley, who has previously taught at the Glasgow School of Art, lectures on Rembrandt and Whistler, is a founding member of the Maryhill Art School, and is founder and head of one of Scotland’s leading Fine Art Studios, Perfect Circle Art. Having worked all over Europe, Wheatley specialises in painting and will guide The Cornwall’s art students through the development of their work from drawing to painting, focusing on how to construct a landscape painting from the students’ own research.

Set in 43 acres of beautiful Victorian parkland, The Cornwall Hotel & Estate is home to a new luxury hotel with restaurant, indulgent Clearing Spa, fitness facilities and 22 luxury Woodland Homes for sale and holiday rental. The hotel’s panoramic views over the stunning Victorian walled gardens, ancient woodland, pastures and lakes provide the perfect subject for an artistic getaway.
Suitable for both complete beginners and more experienced artists, the course will run from 10am to 4pm each day with an hour for lunch.

Cost:
Price includes the two day Art Course, a two night stay at The Cornwall (either Friday and Saturday or Saturday and Sunday) on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis, plus lunch for those attending the course.
Double Room (single occupancy) £349
Twin or Double Room (double occupancy, single delegate for art course) £415
Twin or Double Room (double occupancy, both delegates for art course) £548
To make a booking or for more information please call 01726 87 40 50, or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

The Cornwall Hotel Spa & Estate is located at Tregorrick just a few miles from the Eden Project, The Lost Gardens of Heligan, Mevagissey and the spectacular south Cornish coast. Set in 43 acres of glorious Victorian parkland and woodland, this hidden retreat is home to a luxurious hotel, a state-of-the art spa and 60 architect designed woodland holiday homes. The Cornwall Hotel Spa & Estate is part of the Rudrum Holdings Group, and is a member of Bespoke Hotels highly individual portfolio of fine hotels. For more information, please visit www.thecornwall.com

FAMILY SECRETS FILL THE RADISSON EDWARDIAN BLOOMSBURY STREET HOTEL THIS AUGUST
This August, hotel guests of the Radisson Edwardian Bloomsbury Street Hotel are invited to pick up a complimentary copy of ‘Family Album,’ written by Penelope Lively, courtesy of Penguin Books and the hotel’s book club. In her latest novel, Lively dives into the mystery of a family’s life, and one particular secret of which no one speaks…

Whether you’re looking for a cultural day out to the British Museum, a shopping spree around London’s West End, or a trip down to Theatre Land to watch the latest musical, the 4-star deluxe Radisson Edwardian Bloomsbury Street Hotel has something to offer everyone. Why not book yourself into one of the hotel’s stunning suites (completely with free-standing bathtub) for a bit of added luxury, or if you fancy catching a few summer rays, then why not dine al fresco at the hotel’s sumptuous restaurant?

Booker Prize winner Penelope Lively, showcases her literary mastery in her sixteenth critically acclaimed novel, “Family Album.” With stunning reviews from the Sunday Telegraph and Literary Review, Lively’s newest tale is “a flawlessly constructed min-epic” that is sure to delight.

Bloomsbury Street Book Club Background
Set in the heart of Bloomsbury – home to literary legends Virginia Woolf and E.M Forster - the Radisson Edwardian Bloomsbury Street Hotel is the first hotel to host its very own book club. Each month guests are invited to enjoy the hotel’s recommended book; leaf through at their leisure, or take away a complimentary copy.

Considered the hotel of choice for London’s Literati – with Sarah Waters, Dave Boling and Nick Hornby all recently spotted at the hotel.

The 174-bedroom Radisson Edwardian Bloomsbury Street, launched in January 2009 following a 25 million transformation, has dedicated an entire wall to one of Bloomsbury’s most famous exports; Virginia Woolf’s Mrs Dalloway. The striking art installation, made up of pages from the celebrated novel, dominates the hotel’s spacious reception area. The immense Folio Room boasts some of the most innovative technology in the capital whilst the hotels luxurious bar is perfect for entertaining clients around the clock.

A tranquil haven from the busy capital the spacious Radisson Edwardian Bloomsbury Street Hotel includes:

• 36 Standard double rooms
• 50 Superior Twin & Queen bedrooms
• 85 Deluxe rooms with King Beds
• 3 Luxury Suites

All rooms feature sleek flat screen TVs and complimentary high-speed wireless come as standard.

Radisson Edwardian Bloomsbury Street Hotel,
9-13 Bloomsbury Street, London, WC1B 3QD
For reservations please call: +44 (0)20 7636 5601
For more information: http://www.radissonedwardian.com/bloomsburybookclub

STEP BACK IN TIME WITH THE ALNWICK CASTLE THIS SEPTEMBER
Exclusive outdoor evening performance of Britain’s much-loved literary classic Pride & Prejudice
On Sunday 5th September, visitors to the Alnwick Castle can expected to be transported back in time as Mr Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet take to the stage in their exclusive open air evening performance of Pride & Prejudice.

Set against the 1,000 year old atmospheric Alnwick Castle bailey, onlookers will be enchanted by Laura Turner’s adaptation of the Jane Austen literary classic by the Chapterhouse Theatre Company, as they watch Elizabeth and her sister Jane’s quest for love with the enigmatic Mr Darcy.

After being wrapped up in the notoriously vivacious courtships that is Pride & Prejudice, visitors will have the opportunity to meet and chat with the characters.

Head along to the Castle a little earlier, where from 5pm, early bird dining will be on offer in the Courtyard café. Or, share a picnic with friends in the stunning Castle surroundings.
Booking is essential. You can call 01665 511080 or 01665 511350, to book tickets.
Tickets cost £12 for adults, £8 for Children, or family tickets can be purchased for just £35 family (2+2).
More information about the evening performance can be found on the website: http://www.alnwickcastle.com/whats-on/view/special-evening-performance-pride-and-prejudice-from-chapterhouse-theatre-companyT

CITY LIGHTS, COUNTRY SIGHTS BREAKS WITH THE CARLTON GEORGE HOTEL, GLASGOW AND RABBIE’S TRAIL BURNERS
The four-star Carlton George Hotel in the heart of Glasgow has teamed up with luxury small-group tour company Rabbie’s Trail Burners to offer the ultimate autumn break to guests.

The City Lights, Country Sights Break promises visitors to the West Coast of Scotland the best of both worlds with a two night city break in Glasgow combined with a choice of one day tours through some of Scotland’s most beautiful countryside scenery, to soak up the glorious autumn colours.

Once checked-in, guests can spend the afternoon working up an appetite in some of Scotland’s best shopping areas before returning for a three-course meal in Glasgow’s only rooftop restaurant with stunning views across the city skyline. The Following morning a full Scottish breakfast will prepare explorers for the day ahead.

Guests can choose from two one-day tours which depart just a short walk across George Square. The range of tours includes stunning scenery such as Loch Lomond, Ben Lawers, the spectacular Falls of Dochart and forest-covered mountains of the Trossachs National Park all of which will be boasting a myriad of autumnal leaves and colours. Sights and attractions along the way include Glengoyne Distillery, the picturesque seaside town of Oban, the historic Wallace Monument and Stirling Castle.

Time off the bus is very important to Rabbie’s Trail Burners and the team has personally researched and tested every stop on every route to ensure visitors are seeing the very best of what Scotland has to offer. Combining comfort with fun history and anecdotes and a level of knowledge brings the authentic Scotland to life. All trips are restricted to 16 passengers, to ensure these intimate tours take visitors off the beaten track to experience the real Scotland, its people and culture. Rabbie’s guarantees visitors will enjoy their trip – or their money back.

The City Lights, Country Sights Breaks cost from £275 per room, based on two sharing and include two nights bed and breakfast with a three-course dinner on one night plus a choice of one day tour from Rabbie’s Trail Burners.

2010 marks The Carlton Hotel Collection’s 25th anniversary, bringing a host of new initiatives to each of its hotels. The four-star Carlton George in Glasgow is celebrating throughout 2010 with a range of special offers, as well as a stylish makeover for its guest bedrooms.
For a further information and detailed itineraries on any of the tours, please visit http://www.rabbies.com/ or call 0131 226 3133
For more information on the Carlton George Hotel, Glasgow, please telephone 0141 353 6373 or visit http://www.carltonhotels.co.uk/george

WHISKY BARREL FLOORING
This is something you don’t see every day: a floor made out of whisky barrels. The Scotch whisky industry realised it needed an eco-friendly solution to disposing of old barrels, instead of merely consigning them to landfill. Here at McKay Flooring we were happy to play our part.

Having engineered a way to make flat boards out of these beautiful oak barrels – many still with their distinctive branding – we were delighted to receive a major order within a few days to fit a whisky barrel floor in an exclusive bar restaurant fit out.

Many people wonder if the flooring retains the aroma of fine malt whisky. It’s a good question and probably depends on how vivid your imagination is.

Certainly, when you press a board to your nose, you get the very pleasant smell of oak and vanilla. We can’t guarantee a more spiritual, or spirit-rich, experience than that. Come along and try it for yourself.

The new whisky barrel flooring from McKay Flooring has sparked lots of interest with enquiries from whisky-lovers and interior designers from as far afield as the United States, Russia, Japan and Denmark. We are pleased to say our whisky barrel flooring is now available in the McKay Flooring online store. However it is still a good idea to call us on 0845 602 7694 if you are thinking of creating your own unique whisky floor.

While it looks superb in a bar or lounge, the idea of whisky flooring has sparked lots of creative thought amongst whisky enthusiasts. One commenter on a blog suggested it would be great for his den at home and he is sure to be right: imagine a quirky but beautiful oak floor in his private bolthole, where he can relax, smoke a cigar and sip his favourite malt whisky.
http://www.mckayflooring.co.uk/

PLAY ON THE BIG FLOOR PIANO AT THE LOWRY OUTLET MALL!
The Lowry Outlet Mall is the place to be this summer, with lots of activities to keep the kids entertained. If your little one is mad about music then you won’t want to miss your chance to have a dance on the famous Big Floor Piano as it makes a special appearance at the Mall on the Bank Holiday Weekend!

The Big Floor Piano will be at the Mall from Saturday 28 to Monday 30 August – so make sure you get down there early to show off your musical skills! Play along with your feet, similar to like Tom Hanks did in the movie ‘Big’, and use the big screen to ensure you hit all the right notes!

There’s lots of fun to be had in the week leading up to the Big Floor Piano coming to the Mall; get ready for the sunny weather in style with our Craft Workshops on Thursday 26 and Friday 27 August, where you can make your very own sun visor. Perfect to wear whilst playing in the sunshine, on the waterfront, at The Quays afterwards!

There’s Face Painting on Wednesday 25 August – so make sure you are around between 11am and 4pm to get a fabulous, party time makeover.

What’s more, you could be in with the chance of winning an exclusive £30 gift card from the Lowry Outlet Mall! Simply turn up at the Mall, between 12pm -2pm on Saturday 28 August, to take part in the untimate dance-off – we will film your dance moves and upload them on to the Lowry Outlet Mall Facebook page for our fans to see, the best video will win!

The Big Floor Piano is part of a summer festival of fun at the Lowry Outlet Mall, the perfect destination for children and parents alike. The Mall offers free entertainment and events all year round, an on-site cinema, restaurants and stores offering up to 60% off RRP all year round.

For more information visit http://www.lowryoutletmall.com or follow us on http://twitter.com/lowryoutletmall

DO YOU KNOW YOUR PASTIES FROM YOUR PIES?
No visit to Cornwall is complete without sampling a traditional Cornish pasty. And with many Brits having opted to holiday in the UK this year, many a pasty was sure to be eaten over the summer break. But, how many of us actually know what makes a traditional Cornish pasty, or indeed are aware of its history?

There are many stories and facts about the Cornish pasty, but according to the Cornish Pasty Association, a genuine Cornish pasty must have the following characteristics:

A distinctive 'D' shape and is crimped on one sideThe texture of the filling for the pasty is chunky, made up of uncooked minced or roughly cut chunks of beef , swede or turnip, potato, onion and a light peppery seasoning

The pastry casing is golden in colour, savoury, glazed with milk or egg and robust enough to retain its shape throughout the cooking and cooling process

The whole pasty is slow-baked to ensure that flavours from the raw ingredients are maximised

No flavourings or additives must be used

And most importantly, it must be made in Cornwall

Of course, nothing beats the traditional filling, but there are now dozens of variations widely available. Neil Dookun, operations director at West Cornwall Pasty Co explains: “There’s no escaping the fact that the traditional Cornish pasty is indeed the most popular. However, over the years we have developed some more unusual varieties to suit the tastes and needs of our customers.

“We now offer 20 different pasties, including a number of vegetarian options and quite a few different varieties which are just as popular as the traditional, such as Steak and St Austell Ale, Pork and Apple, Lamb and Mint, Chicken Balti, and Salmon, to name but a few.”

So, it just goes to show that whilst us Brits are fond of heritage and tradition, there is always room for something different. Neil adds: “In fact, we recently asked our Twitter and Facebook followers what their perfect pasty would be, and believe me there were some quite interesting concoctions - from as simple as tuna and onion, to the more unusual chorizo and butternut squash. I suppose anything is possible!”

www.westcornwallpasty.co.uk

LOOKING FOR A LAST MINUTE HOLIDAY READ? CHECK OUT LITTLE BLACK DRESS BOOKS
We love the Little Black Dress books, they are great summer reads, and are perfect for the beach, lying in the sun, in your back garden, or local park. Easy to fit in your handbag, or beach bag, they are a perfect escapist read! Here is one of the latest:

Vintage Magic - Sally Ann Morris

Spirited silk, crafty crepe, lively lace, tricky taffetas and enchanting empire lines... How powerful is the perfect dress?

Her love life in tatters, Rose Taylor decides its time to run away from London and open a vintage dress shop near her sister in Bath. If anyone is able to fully appreciate the life-enhancing power of finding and wearing that one very special dress, it’s Rose, but it seems the tea dresses, ball-gowns and lace in Viva Las Vintage! really do have a life of their own... As she uncovers the secret of the shop's magical powers, Rose realises that she can be transformed into a bewitching goddess, one with not only the power to get back the man she lost but to reach out and grab the life she’s always wanted. Dressing to impress is about to take on a whole new meaning...

http://www.littleblackdressbooks.com/

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