National Trust launches ‘Window Food’ campaign to turn 600 acres of urban window ledges into vertical vegetable gardens

A new National Trust initiative launches today to challenge urbanites to transform their window sills into beautiful, tasty vegetable gardens. People living in the UK’s five million flats have the biggest challenge when it comes to finding space to grow food at home, but there are over 600 acres of growing space available on window sills in the UK.

Amidst high food prices and concern about sustainable food, it’s the perfect time to grow your own delicious, cheap and local ‘window food’. Even with just two window boxes you can grow your own meal.

Gizzi Erskine, chef and food writer is supporting the campaign from her East London flat by undertaking an experiment to create mouth-watering recipes from ingredients grown on her window sills. She is growing radishes, beetroots, rainbow chard, spinach, various lettuces, new potatoes, tomatoes, courgettes, cabbages and a variety of herbs (One of Gizzi’s favourite window dishes below).

She says: “I’m on a mission to dispel the myth that cooking is difficult and time consuming – and I now want to do the same for growing your own vegetables and herbs. I love cooking with fresh ingredients – it makes all the difference to the taste of food and you can’t get fresher than picking straight from your own windowsill. Living in a flat, I never thought I could grow so much without a garden but my windowsills look pretty and are really productive. Hopefully I’ll never find a soggy supermarket bag of leftover lettuce at the bottom of my fridge again – everyone should give window food a go!”

Fiona Reynolds, Director General of the National Trust, says: “Here’s proof that you don’t need an allotment or garden to grow your own food - we’ve got the equivalent of 344 football pitches worth of growing space right on our windowsills. Growing ‘window food’ is an easy way to ensure your vegetables are local and bursting with flavour without breaking the bank - and when it’s pouring with rain outside, there’s no need to brave the weather - you simply open the window and pick what you need.”

Window Food is part of the National Trusts’ Food Glorious Food campaign to show everyone they can grow their own. To support this drive, over three hundred special events are taking place from now until October 2009 where National Trust experts will be giving growing advice and free seeds. To find your nearest event visit www.foodgloriousfood.org.uk

Food Glorious Food supports the National Trust's overall commitment to sustainable food production, and the use of quality, local, seasonal and sustainable food in its kitchens and 150 restaurants.

Gizzi’s top tips for the best window food

1. Pick the windowsills which get the most sun during the day for your window boxes
2. Watching your vegetables grow every day is really fun, but be careful not to water them too much
3. Plant pretty rainbow chard and lovely smelly herbs for the most beautiful, fragrant windows
4. Start with the vegetables you eat the most like tomatoes (the tumbling kind for window boxes) and lettuce and you’ll notice the difference in taste straight away
5. Root vegetables like beetroot and chard are really easy to grow and don’t need much attention. It is so easy to tell when they are ready as the pink or purple bulbs pop out of the soil
Top five vegetables to grow in window boxes
1. Lettuce – Cut and Come Again varieties can be harvested over and over again straight from your kitchen window to your plate throughout the summer
2. Radishes - some of the easiest vegetables to look after, these take just five weeks to grow into crisp and peppery mouthfuls
3. Beetroot – hardy and reliable, deep pink beetroot not only looks pretty on a summer plate but its leaves and young shoots in salads are deliciously sweet
4. Rainbow chard – this plant is beautiful, delicious and versatile – the multicoloured stalks can be used to brighten up salads along with the young, tender leaves. Mature chard makes a tasty steamed green similar to spinach
5. Creeping rosemary – a fragrant herb that goes really well with Mediterranean flavours. It's especially pretty when the flowers are blooming and its long curling branches spill over the edges of your window box. Add a handful of sprigs to burning coal for an aromatic barbeque

 

Gizzi’s favourite window dish

Sea bass with sautéed chorizo, new potatoes, rainbow chard and spinach
“There still isn’t much that beats the whole flakey fish and meaty chorizo combination and you can bet your bottom dollar that once combined with the bitter sweet flavour of rainbow chard, spinach and crisp, comforting sautéed potatoes all cut through with a hint of lemon – we’re talking a proper delicious and robust meal. Not what you’d expect from your average window box, but then who wants to be average anyway?”

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 semi dried chorizo sausage, chopped into chunks
300g new potatoes, parboiled
2 cloves garlic, peeled and finely chopped
150g rainbow chard, washed and trimmed
150g spinach, washed and trimmed
a squeeze of lemon juice
sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 tablespoon olive oil
4 x 120g fillets of Seabass, (or sea bream) skin on

Heat the oil in a large frying or sauté pan and throw in the chorizo. Fry for 2 minutes then throw in the potatoes, then fry over a high-ish heat for a further 5 minutes or until the potatoes start to crisp and go golden. For the last minute of cooking add the garlic to the pan.

Add the chard and spinach leaves to the pan and cook for 2 minutes or until they have wilted down but still kept some shape. Take off the heat and season with a spot of lemon juice and some salt and pepper. Split between the plates, and then wipe the pan clean.

Season the fish fillets with salt and pepper. Heat the remaining oil in the pan then lay the fish skin side down. Pan fry for 3 minutes then flip over and finish cooking for a further minute on the other side. Lay the fish on top of the veggies and bobs your uncle a delicious meal from window box to plate in minutes.

TASTE OF BIRMINGHAM 2009

TANTALISE YOUR TASTEBUDS – 9th-12th JULY

Birmingham is fast gaining a reputation as the country’s regional culinary capital and this year’s Taste of Birmingham festival has all of the ingredients to cement the region firmly on the foodie map. Take Michelin-starred chefs, award winning restaurants, local producers and world-class wine merchants, mix it all together in beautiful parkland and let your taste-buds lead the way.

Taste of Birmingham 2009 runs in Cannon Hill Park from the 9th to the 12th July, providing four days of fantastic food, delightful drinks and enjoyable entertainment. Moving away from the chefs you would see on television, the region’s ‘celebrity’ chefs are the stars of this show, demonstrating home-grown talent which has won three heart of England restaurants - Purnells, Simpsons*, Turners of Harbourne - Michelin-stars this year.

Food fans will be able to buy Crowns, the currency of the festival, and stroll from restaurant to restaurant exchanging them for whatever they fancy, from classic French and modern British grub to the finest Italian, Indian and Far Eastern cuisine whilst enjoying entertainment provided by musicians from the region.

To give visitors a real flavor of the excellent produce from Birmingham and the surrounding counties, Heart of England Fine Foods is heavily involved in the event. Local producers in attendance include Flights Orchard Organic in Herefordshire, Freedom Beer in Staffordshire and Fudge Heaven in Worcestershire to name but a few.

A standard ticket entry is now just £10 when purchased in advance and children under 16 go free with a full paying adult so the event is well within budget of any food lover and it’s set to be a real family event. Tickets can be purchased online at www.visitbirmingham.com/taste

For a full list of all restaurants and producers taking part in Taste of Birmingham 2009 please visit: www.visitbirmingham.com/taste

(*NB Simpsons has retained its star for 5th year running)

CELEBRITY TEAM GETS READY TO TAKE THE REINS AT SANDBANKS POLO TOURNAMENT THIS WEEKEND!

An all-star team, featuring international fashion model and polo player Jodie Kidd is preparing to take to the sand for the very first time at the British Beach Polo Championships which will be held at Sandbanks, Poole, on the 10-11 July 2009.

Jodie will be part of the “Kidd Team”, which includes her brother, international professional player, Jack Kidd and renowned polo player Jamie Morrison. Sponsored by Bournemouth-based SOS Recruitment, the trio are currently in training and ready to take on five other teams, which consist of some of the most talented international and national polo players, at the two day tournament.

Other highlights will include an England vs. South America match, fantastic evening parties and a race between an Audi Q7 and a polo pony, all taking place against the fantastic backdrop of Sandbanks’ pristine Blue Flag beach.

“The Kidd Team” will be led by Jack Kidd. He says: “Beach polo is a great sport, it’s fast paced and exciting giving spectators the advantage of watching the action at close quarters. Polo is misunderstood as elitist. It is an exhilarating and skilful sport and as a result so many more people are playing it around the country. Anyone can give it a go, there are so many clubs where you do not need your own pony; you just come along and play.”

Sandpolo organiser, Johnny Wheeler says: “It’s going to a fantastic couple of days, full of high quality polo. Visitors will also see some of the best players from around the world taking part. We’re really pleased to have the “Kidd” team involved and wish to thank SOS Recruitment for their commitment to sponsor such a high profile team.”

There are a host of ticket options available to make the event accessible to all. General admission to the tournament is £35 per day, the Polo and Party tickets cost £70 and hospitality table packages cost £300 per head. For more information on the tournament, or to purchase tickets, visit www.sandpolo.com.

KIDS WEEK BOOKING LINES OPEN ON TUESDAY 14 JULY 2009

Kids go FREE to top London shows from 14 - 28 August 2009

There’s no business like show business and the biggest deal of all for families this summer is the much-loved and eagerly awaited annual initiative - Kids Week in the West End! Now in its 12th year, Kids Week offers children aged 5 - 16 the opportunity to experience the magic of London theatre for free. The countdown to Kids Week 2009 can now begin as the official booking lines open on Tuesday 14 July 2009, offering families the chance to snap up tickets to over 28 top London shows for a fortnight of theatrical fun from 14 to 28 August 2009.

The ticket deal is simple - one child (aged between 5 and 16) can go absolutely free to any participating show when accompanied by a full paying adult, and another two children can go for half price. Kids Week 2009 is proud to be supporting Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity, Theatres for Theatres Appeal. See www.kidsweek.co.uk for more information.

Whatever you’re into, whether it’s smash hit musicals, comedies, dance, or captivating plays, Kids Week guarantees a great theatre experience for all the family. Participating shows include popular musicals Billy Elliot The Musical, Disney’s The Lion King, Hairspray, Sister Act and Wicked as well as plays such as Carrie’s War, Peter Pan, The 39 Steps, War Horse, plus many more.

The Kids Week fun doesn’t stop there, children can take part in a range of free show linked activities and workshops designed to engage and inspire the next generation of theatre lovers. Children can go ‘Behind the Barricades’ with Les Misérables, ‘Unleash Your Inner Dancing Queen’ with Mamma Mia! or meet the cast and crew of Wicked at an exclusive question and answer session. In addition to these fantastic show linked activities, Kids Week offers a series of unique workshops including a dance class with English National Ballet, an opportunity to peek behind the scenes of the Lyric Hammersmith or learn about stage and set design with The Tricycle Theatre. For a full list of participating shows, show linked activities and workshops, visit www.kidsweek.co.uk .

So don’t miss out, get ready to book from Tuesday 14 July 2009 at www.kidsweek.co.uk or by calling the Kids Week ticket hotline on 0844 248 5151. Let the theatrical extravaganza begin!

1. Kids Week in the West End is organised by The Society of London Theatre and provides a free ticket for one child aged between 5 and 16 when accompanied by a full paying adult. Up to two additional children’s tickets can be purchased at half price. Most West End shows which are suitable for children, are participating. Offer subject to limited availability and not applicable to tickets previously purchased.
2. Full information on performances, free activities, travel and accommodation, and restaurants will be available at www.kidsweek.co.uk
3. Children should seek parental permission before logging on to the internet.
4. Booking lines open 14 July 2009.

QUILTED VELVET WINS GOLD AT THE 2009 HAMPTON COURT PALACE FLOWER SHOW

Quilted Velvet is proud to announce its first Gold medal win at the prestigious RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show this year, with a thought-provoking conceptual design by esteemed garden designer Tony Smith.

The scale defying show garden, the second in this year’s triptych which will conclude at the RHS Flower Show Tatton Park in a fortnight’s time, was carefully designed to bring to life Quilted Velvet toilet tissue’s commitment to ensuring that three trees are replanted for every one it uses.

Striking elements of the garden include the rich carpet of 30,000 miniature oak trees and the imposing frame of green oak structures which protect the seedling trees, echoing how Quilted Velvet protects and manages its forests responsibly.

Tony Smith, the Quilted Velvet Garden designer, comments: “I am thrilled to have won this gold medal for Quilted Velvet! We are very proud of the garden - every aspect of the design was intended to communicate Quilted Velvet’s commitment to the environment, and it has definitely been commented on as one of the most innovative show gardens this year.”

The Quilted Velvet Garden is at site number GW1 at the RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show on 7-12 July 2009.

Quilted Velvet® is an amazingly quilty product with three layers of cushiony softness for that little touch of luxury. At Velvet, we are committed to responsible forestry practices. So we plant hundreds of thousands of saplings every year to ensure that each and every tree we use is replaced by three new ones. As further evidence of our commitment to the environment, we also support various tree-planting initiatives worldwide and only use pulp from responsible sources.

YOU HAVE UNTIL 31 ST JULY TO FIND YOUR POETIC VOICE! ENTER THE FOYLE YOUNG POETS OF THE YEAR AWARD 2009 JAY BERNARD PREVIOUS FOYLE WINNER

Get your entries in now for the chance to be recognised as one of Britain’s most promising poetic talents

There’s never been a more exciting time to participate in poetry. With the appointment of our new Poet Laureate and the excitement generated by the BBC's current poetry season, poetry really is everywhere. Lemn Sissay, one of the judges of this year’s competition agrees: "Poets and poetry are all over your TV, our new Poet Laureate is the first woman ever to be in the position – there's even poetry on X Factor." He goes on to urge any would be writers out there to “Become a poet yourself. They say the first step of the journey is the hardest - so take your first step and send in your poem(s) in time for the Foyle Young Poets of the Year Award deadline!” Accompanying Sissay in judging the Foyle Young Poets Award will be poet Selima Hill. Open to young people aged 11-17, The Foyle Young Poets of the Year Award is the only national poetry prize of its kind that seeks to unearth, promote and support young poetic talent from across the UK and beyond. Since it launched 12 years ago, the competition has identified some of the most exciting new voices in contemporary poetry. These include Caroline Bird, who after winning the award had her first collection of poetry published aged just 16; Jay Bernard whose first collection Your Sign is Cuckoo Girl was published in 2008 and Richard O’Brien who set up a highly successful e-zine Pomegranate with a group of other like minded young writers.

The young poets whose work is selected as the most promising will attend a week long residential course at a prestigious Arvon Centre, where they will be tutored by Lemn Sissay & Caroline Bird. Winners under the age of 14 will receive a visit to their school from a professional poet. Take a look at the Foyle Winners 2008 at Arvon. Don't miss the opportunity to find your voice: get your entry in by July 31st 2009. Watch the Poetry Society’s viral animation by artist Tori Flower and filmmaker Richard Wood for inspiration! www.foyleyoungpoets.org

To Enter Request an entry form by writing to Foyle Young Poets of the Year Award, 22 Betterton Street London, WC2H 9BX Or email - This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it Deadline for Entries: July 31 st.2009
Ages 11 – 17

DOMINIC WEST SEDUCES THE NATION OVER COFFEE
Dominic West - star of The Wire and self-proclaimed book lover - has partnered with Carte Noire coffee to launch the Carte Noire Readers. At www.cartenoire.co.uk <http://www.cartenoire.co.uk/> , viewers will be able to select one of their favourite actors to give private readings from some of literature’s most powerful scenes of seduction – perfect for adding a little extra indulgence to any coffee break.

Dominic is accompanied by fellow actors Greg Wise and Dan Stevens who will read specially selected love scenes from a range of modern and classic Penguin novels. From Lady Chatterley’s Lover to High Fidelity and Pride and Prejudice, there is something to set the scene at any time of day, for a unique and intense one–to-one coffee drinking experience.

“For me, coffee and books have always been natural companions. Carte Noire Readers is a charming idea for when you have a moment to grab a coffee break. It’s a great way to enjoy books”, says Dominic. He adds “I’ve enjoyed the selection of literature. I wasn’t a big fan of Austen before recording these extracts - although my mother and sisters loved her work - but reading them out loud has brought them to life for me and I’ve been converted. It’s truly powerful and passionate stuff.”

Since the best literature deserves to be complemented by the highest quality coffee, Carte Noire, made with 100% Arabica beans that are expertly selected to create a deeply aromatic blend that arouses the senses, is the perfect partner to these literary love scenes.

Carte Noire Readers is available online at www.cartenoire.co.uk now. Viewers can also register for email reminders when new extracts are available to view.

STOP PRESS : GREAT OPPORTUNITY : ELEMIS ON QVC

The Elemis Today Special Value is called the Tri-Enzyme Skin Smoothing System and its goes live on the 13th July at 12am, 12pm, 8pm and 10pm. The products are available to purchase all day but only while stocks last and only at the amazing price for that day. We can’t reveal what’s in the special deal is but as always QVC never disappoint with the prices.


BRING A TROPICAL PARADISE INTO YOUR HOME WITH THE CRABTREE & EVELYN INDIA HICKS COLLECTIONS
Create a luxurious tropical paradise in your own bathroom - receive an India Hicks Island Night/ Island Living Body Wash free with any £30 purchase
The India Hicks Island Living and Island Night ranges were inspired by India’s tropical surroundings at her home in the Bahamas. The India Hicks Island Living line, which comprises the Causarina and Spider Lily collections, is drawn upon an eclectic mix of influences: natural island wisdom, India’s favourite island flowers and trees, and classic West Indian style.

Island Living’s hero product, Spider Lily EdT, won the coveted CEW award for Best Fragrance (2008). It blends spider lily, citruses, orange blossom and night blooming jasmine with green palms and sea air accords for a unique, exotic scent Island Night EDT is the focus of the India Hicks Island Night range. It blends orchids, night blooming flowers, orange blossom and a woody musk accord for a scent which captures the distinctive fragrance of India’s beachside garden.

Free body wash offer valid until August 13 2009 in all Crabtree & Evelyn stores.

WIN A YEAR'S WORTH OF NEW LOOKS FROM BRANDALLEY.CO.UK
At some point during the month of July BrandAlley.co.uk, the website that specialises in flash sales of designer fashion, homeware and beauty brands, will sign up their 1millionth member.

To mark this milestone, BrandAlley.co.uk will be giving away a year’s worth of new looks to the 1millionth customer who registers on-line*. With £2,000 to spend over the coming year, the winning millionth member will be able to take advantage of the discounts on BrandAlley.co.uk each and every season. To be in with a chance of winning this year long shopping spree simply register free of charge at www.brandalley.co.uk - if you're the millionth member you can look forward to looking like a million dollars, courtesy of BrandAlley.co.uk!

One of the UK’s best websites for designer brands with up to 80% off RRP, BrandAlley.co.uk is a member’s only site that allows those registered to take advantage of flash sample sale such as DVF, Jimmy Choo, Smythson and Cartier.

SUMMER HAMPERS FROM ISLE OF SKYE SMOKEHOUSE
Multi award winning seafood specialist the Isle of Skye Smokehouse has brought together a delicious selection of summer delights to create the Isle of Skye Smokehouse Luxury Summer Hamper. Ideal for a luxurious outdoor meal, the sumptuous collection of seafood is caught off the west coast of Scotland, prepared locally and delivered to your door. Presented in a beautiful wicker hamper it includes their award winning Isle of Skye Smoked Salmon, along with a selection of their best smoked seafood delights, a delightfully fresh cheese and an optional bottle of a lush and zesty Pinot Grigio.
Established in 1993 the Isle of Skye Smokehouse was initially formed to supply local hotels and restaurants fresh and smoked seafood, direct from the fishermen and boats that caught them. Before long they were supplying some of Scotland’s most well known hotels and restaurants, including the Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh, Skibo Castle in Dornoch, Harrods and the Royal Scotsman.

Thanks to the success of their seafood in these establishments, demand then took off direct from consumers resulting in the creation of their online shop (www.skye-seafood.co.uk) and a mail order brochure. Since then consumers have been able to have the very best premium quality seafood delivered directly to their door.

Each of their smoked products is created in a different way, using a process which has been developed following many years of scrupulous attention to detail and a passion for guaranteeing that they offer the consumer the best they possibly can. Their Isle of Skye Smoked Salmon is created using hand-reared freedom foods farmed salmon that is uniquely cured for much longer than usual - five days to be precise - and then smoked using old whisky barrel chips from the smokehouse's local distillery to create a smoked salmon unlike any other. This dedication to producing the very best products resulted in their Isle of Skye Smoked Salmon beating off stiff competition in 2008 to be crowned the winner of the Smoked Salmon World Cup.

The Isle of Skye Smokehouse Luxury Summer Hamper turns a picnic into a gourmet meal. All of the products come ready to eat so all you need to pack is your silverware and crockery for a luxurious outdoor meal that will make you the envy of other picnickers. Surrounded by nature’s beauty you can feast on award winning smoked salmon, smoked peppered mackerel and smoked mussels with Scottish oatcakes, Ard Darrich chutney and Dairy Cromal cheese.

Summer is also the time to dust off the barbeque and while the choice of food to barbeque may be endless, too often the type of food cooked is the same. This is where the Isle of Skye Smokehouse Luxury Summer Hamper comes in to its own, offering a number of mouth-watering options to “throw on the barbie”. The Isle of Skye Smokehouse smoked langoustines, for example, can be weigh anything up to 110g (almost quarter of a pound) and taste delicious lightly barbequed. Isle of Skye Smokehouse recommends serving them with a creamy aioli or garlic mayonnaise and suggests enjoying them with the bottle of Pinot Grigio ‘Le Rosse’, Tommasi, Veneto 2007, an optional extra in the Luxury Summer Hamper.

The Luxury Summer Hamper or individual items in their range of seafood can all be bought through their website www.skye-seafood.co.uk or by calling 0800 781 3687.

WASHINGTON STATE NAMED NO 1

Washington State has been named the best cycle friendly state in the whole of the US.

It is the second year running that the state, which is home to the vibrant city of Seattle, numerous stunning national parks and picturesque coastlines, has been awarded the prestigious accolade by the League of American Bicyclists.

Seattle’s compact centre makes it the perfect city to explore by bike, visitors can take a relaxing ride along the waterfront and see all the major attractions including, the Sculpture Park, Space Needle and historic districts.

In the wider Washington State there are numerous trails and routes to suit all needs from gentle scenic rides to adrenalin fuelled mountain bike challenges.

Biking is especially popular in Spokane, which is blessed with an amazing system of trails including the Spokane Centennial Trail which runs for some 37 miles along the Spokane River all the way to the Idaho border.

In September 5,000 cyclists are expected to take part in the annual 21-mile group bike ride, named Spokefest.

The San Juan Islands are also renowned for their safe and scenic country roads and cyclists can follow the shoreline and catch glimpses of the diverse wildlife, which include migratory Orca whales.

The League of American Bicyclists judges states that actively support biking for recreation and as a way of transport and takes in consideration numerous factors including the creation of new places to ride and initiatives which support bicycling as a way of addressing climate change.

Governor Chris Gregoire said: “I’m proud to have Washington recognised as a leader in our great progress in encouraging people to ride bicycles for recreation and as a transportation choice.”

Located in the Pacific Northwest, Seattle is just a nine hour flight from the UK. The iconic Space Needle, Pike Place Market and Experience Music Project are just a few reasons to visit this relaxed city that is surrounded by water and snow-capped mountains.

Washington State is the second largest wine producing state and has the only temperate rainforest in the US as well as an active volcano and numerous national parks.

For more information visit www.visitseattle.org and www.experiencewa.com or call 020 7978 5233.

A ROOM WITH A VIEW – THE NEWLY REFURBISHED PORTRAIT RESTAURANT

At the very top of the National Portrait Gallery, The Portrait Restaurant boasts one of the most romantic views in London. Recently refurbished, the modern interior provides a light open space where guests can enjoy a drink or meal.

The Portrait Restaurant commissioned Adsdesign to create a sleek, contemporary feel to the interior of the restaurant. Renowned for their modern designs, Adsdesign are the people behind the interior of the Guoman Hotels and Terminus Eat, Paris.

Swedish Head Chef Katarina Todosijevic has taken The Portrait Restaurant to new heights. One of Fay Machler’s Top 5 female chefs Katarina’s recipes are inspirational. Katarina works closely with suppliers who adhere to good farming practices for meat and uses local, seasonal and organic produce wherever possible.

The Portrait Restaurant’s new menu, includes dishes such as Monmouthshire air-dried ham, fried duck egg to start, Plaice, marsh samphire, brown shrimp, lemon and horseradish butter for main and a stunning Red currant sorbet served topped with Balfour Brut Rosé for dessert.

Visitors can also enjoy a leisurely drink at the new bar which offers an extensive Gin & Tonic cocktail list and sparkling cocktails such as the Portrait Bellini (Lychee liqueur, Pomegranate juice and Jeio Prosecco). The wine list includes a selection of biodynamic, organic and unusual varieties.

The Portrait Restaurant Afternoon Tea menu offers a range of delicious sandwiches and home made cakes, biscuits and scones. Or treat yourself to the ‘Pink Fizz Tea’ with a glass of Rose Prosecco, smoked salmon sandwiches and a selection of mini desserts for only £18. Enjoy whilst taking in the breath taking views of Nelsons’ Column and Whitehall.

For bookings at The Portrait Restaurant, call 020 7312 2490 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

The Portrait Restaurant serves a set menu on Monday to Friday from 11.45 – 15.00:
2 Course £18.00 | 3 Courses £23.00

The Portrait Restaurant serves a pre-theatre menu on Thursday and Friday evening from 17.30 – 18.30:
2 Course £16.95 | 3 Courses £19.95, including a glass of Rose D’Anjou wine spritzer

The Portrait Restaurant serves a brunch menu on Saturday and Sunday from 11.30 – 15.00:
2 Course £20.50 | 3 Courses £25.50.

Opening Hours: Monday to Wed 10am – 5pm, Thursday & Friday 10am – 9pm, Saturday & Sunday 10am – 5pm.

ST CLEMENTS CAFÉ & BAR OPENS IN MIDDLETEMPLE
‘Delicious food in a beautiful setting'

Last week saw the opening of St Clements Café & Bar in MiddleTemple, EC4. Set in a prime location with gardens and a spacious interior, St Clements offers exceptional food and wine at affordable prices and has quickly built a loyal customer base, both from within and outside Temple.

St Clements was set up by Olivia Cundy, who has a background in catering and a passion for simple, great quality food. St Clements offers delicious food, made fresh daily in the kitchens by experienced chefs. The changing menu uses the best seasonal ingredients sourced from the UK, Italy and France.

The interior comfortably seats up to 60 customers and the outside area can accommodate a further 32. The terrace overlooks the beautiful MiddleTempleGardens with sloping lawns, surrounded by crafted architecture.

Located on Middle Temple Lane, St Clements offers the perfect location for coffee, breakfast, lunch or evening drinks. With its location just off Fleet Street, the café provides a contrast to the pre-packaged lunch without a great contrast in price. The vast difference in the quality of cooking and the relaxed atmosphere makes St Clements the perfect stop.

The breakfast menu ranges from summer berry compote with yoghurt & granola to a Tamworth bacon and egg sandwich. The lunch menu comprises of a selection of delicious salads, handmade sandwiches and a daily special such as griddled Yorkshire lamb burgers in toasted focaccia with tzatsiki & salad. Freshly baked cakes and scones are available in the afternoon and in the evening customers can enjoy simple bar suppers such as Neals' Yard cheese plates, ham hock terrine, potted shrimps or homemade chips with rosemary sea salt.

The wine list has been carefully sourced from around the world, offering an eclectic selection of delicious wines at competitive prices. Many are available by the glass and by the carafe, enabling customers to sample different wines.

St Clements is also available to hire for evening and weekend events. It is possible to host a dinner for up to 80 or a cocktail party for up to 250, with menus designed to suit each unique occasion.

Commenting on St Clements, Olivia Cundy said, "I wanted to create a relaxed atmosphere where people can escape their hectic London lives and enjoy delicious food and wine in a welcoming environment. Our carefully sourced ingredients are used to create a changing and diverse menu at competitive prices."

St Clements Café & Bar
www.stclementscafe.co.uk
020 7936 2755

St Clements is open from 8am Monday-Friday
Last orders for drinks is 10pm and last orders for bar suppers is 9pm
The terrace overlooking the gardens is open from May - October
Directions can be found on the website.

TIME TO GET EXCITED ABOUT BAK 2 SKOOL SHOPPING

Kickers Team-up with Apple to Bring You Some Great Prizes
Feeling good with what summer has brought by way of festivals, parties and fun in the sun? Now, thanks to Kickers, you can look forward to going back to school with just as much excitement. Proud to be partnering with one of the biggest entertainment names in the world, Apple, Kickers is offering you the chance to win a top spec Macbook, iPod Nanos, iPod Shuffles and iTunes vouchers as part of a collaboration between the two brands. With so many prizes up for grabs, the fun needn’t end when the school holidays do!

Up for grabs will be 100 x £10 iTunes vouchers, 50 x iPod Shuffles (worth over £55 each), 10 x iPod Nanos (worth over £100 each) and the Grand Prize of a Macbook (worth over £700).

To be in with a chance of winning, get down to your local Kickers stockist to find out the key word and short code number.

The competition will run from 1st July until 31st August 2009 in selected Barratts, Schuh, Brantano, D2, JD and Slater Menswear stores. Terms and Conditions apply. See online for details at www.Kickersonline.co.uk/school/

GIANT CUPCAKE TO FEED OVER 2,000 AT THE COVENT GARDEN REAL FOOD MARKET
What is predicted to be the world’s largest cupcake will be towering over visitors to The Covent Garden Real Food Market on Thursday 16th July.
Thousands of people will be queuing up for their free slice, as the cake will be able to feed over 2,000 people. Designed by Culinary Olympic winner Michelle Wibowo, the delicious, cream-covered mega-cupcake, measuring a grand 2 meters by 1.25 meters, will be on the East Piazza where slices will be given to visitors on a first come first served basis for free.

Visitors to Covent Garden will also be able to enjoy other sweet delights at The Covent Garden Real Food Market from Crumbs & Doilies, Sugar Grain and more, as well as savoury, mouth-watering delights from some of the UK’s finest food producers, which shoppers can buy fresh to prepare at home or enjoy immediately on the Piazza.

Please visit the website for more details: www.coventgardenlondonuk.com or call 020 3047 2555
Date: Thursday 16th July
Time: 1pm call
Cost: FREE, first come, first served

The Covent Garden Real Food Market Times:
Every Thursday until the end of September. July & August 12:00pm – 9:00pm/ September 12.00pm – 8.00pm

Food Market Details:
*There are over 32 stalls. Traders include: SJ Frederick & Sons, Mon’s Cheese, Neal’s Yard Dairy, Ham & Cheese Company, Flourstation, Sugar Grain, Crumbs & Doilies, L Booth, The Spore Boys, Arabica Food & Spice Company, Gujarati Rasoi, Shell Seekers, Alba Ice-cream and Pie Minister

TV CHEF PHIL LAUNCHES SCHOOL DINNER CHALLENGE
TV chef Phil Vickery rolled up his sleeves at the world’s oldest youth club to launch a competition for kids to create the dish they would most like to see on their school menu. He showed members of the cookery club at St Andrew’s in Westminster, London, how to make tasty turkey tortillas, then encouraged them to come up with their own ideas using British turkey.

Two winners will each receive £1,000 for new equipment for their school, plus a bike for themselves – just in time for Christmas!

Says Phil: “British turkey is fantastically tasty – and it’s really good for you. My kids love it, so I know we are going to get some great entries. They could design a funny face pizza, pasta dish or curry dish. The only rule is that as well as turkey the recipe must contain at least two different vegetables - they can pick their favourites!”

More details and entry forms can be found on www.britishturkey.co.uk or by calling 0800 783 9994. The closing date is November 20th 2009.

STEVE MADDEN POPS UP IN THE WEST END
American footwear sensation, Steve Madden, will be opening its first stand alone store on Broadwick Street on 10th July 2009.

The short term lease of the 350 sq ft retail unit at 69 Broadwick Street will be the first time Steve Madden has had a stand alone presence on the UK High Street. The pop up store will deliver a unique London take on this distinctive American brand, creating a design concept that marries the statement making style of Steve Madden with the insouciance and innovation of London fashion, delivering a real destination store in the heart of the capital.

As one of Americas most successful shoe designers, Steve Madden is considered the fashion footwear mogul of the 21st Century. Mr. Madden has been responsible for the design and marketing of the company’s trendsetting shoes for the past two decades. His uncanny instinct and vision for what young spirited women want to wear on their feet has resulted in millions of fans worldwide along with a large celebrity fan base including; Kate Moss, Hayden Panettiere, Heidi Klum, Ashley Tisdale, Lady GaGa, Miley Cyrus, The Saturdays and Katy Perry.

Steven Price Brown, Head of Steve Madden Europe comments “Here at Steve Madden we are incredibly excited about opening the pop up store. We are having incredible success with our wholesale partners and this allows us to raise the brands profile without stepping on our partners toes.”

The pop up store will stock signature Steve Madden styles including Triumph, Aileen and the celebrity’s favourite summer sandal - Banglez. Steve Madden’s coveted collections also include gladiator sandals, statement heels, signature wedges, embellished pumps and classic biker boots.
Current UK stockists for Steve Madden include John Lewis, ASOS, My-Wardrobe and Shudoo

GARDENERS' WORLD MAGAZINE'S MONTY DON NAMED MAGAZINE COLUMNIST OF THE YEAR
Gardeners' World columnist Monty Don was last week named Columnist of the Year at the prestigious Periodical Publishers Association (PPA) Magazine Awards 2009, the 'Oscars' of the UK magazine industry. In what is regarded as one of the most challenging categories, Monty Don saw off competition from a range of high profile columnists, including David Baddiel, Nigel Slater and Stuart Maconie to strike gold. He was praised for being 'a hands-on gardener who writes from the soul, fusing practical knowledge with deep personal insight.'

The judges said: "Monty has bags of passion and personality and is an immensely valuable asset to the Gardeners' World brand. His writing keeps the reader hooked until right at the end, and provides a real reason to buy the magazine."

Monty writes Monty's Month for Gardeners' World, that opens the Grow & Eat section in each issue.

SUUNTO LAUNCHES LIMITED EDITION CORE EXTREME
The ultimate instrument for any adrenaline-packed outdoor activity

Suunto, a leading sports precision instrument designer and manufacturer, has today announced a new member of its award-winning Suunto Core outdoor sports instrument range. The limited edition Suunto Core Extreme features a sleek new design. Just 3,000 individually numbered watches will be available.

The Suunto Core has been designed to provide reliable and accurate data to confidently evaluate the user’s surroundings. It combines advanced ABC (altimeter, barometer and compass) functions with benefits such as a depth meter, sunrise and sunset times, and a menu in four languages. Available in a selection of styles from urban to outdoors, the Suunto Core took the glory in one of the most renowned and hardest-fought international design competitions by winning the ‘red dot: best of the best’ award at the red dot design competition in Germany last year. It has also been awarded with the Gear of the Year award by the Men’s Journal in 2007.

Accurate to 29,500 feet (9,000 meters), the Core’s altimeter displays current elevation, shows elevation gained and lost and records sessions for review. The automatic alti/baro mode switches between altimeter and barometer depending on the activity and so shows the most relevant information for each situation.

In 2009, the Suunto Core range has been presented to athletes participating in the Red Bull X-Alps 2009 event, to help them meet the extreme challenges that await them during this challenging race. Suunto Core's altitude, barometer and compass functions will be invaluable tools as the racers navigate their way through the Alps during the two-week long event.

The Suunto Core Extreme Limited Edition will be available at selected retailers from July 2009.

www.suunto.com/outdoor

POPULIST ART AND SOME INKY BUSINESS TAKE OVER EMPTY RETAIL UNITS IN COVENT GARDEN
Covent Garden, a London hub for supporting emerging new talent, has teamed up with two of London’s most innovative new collectives to provide visitors to the Piazza an opportunity to experience up-and-coming art at its best.

Two of London’s most touted practitioners of underground art, curators London Miles and Royal College of Art graduate Matthew Plummer-Fernandez, are to take over separate empty retail spaces to display their new works, both of which make their debut to the London scene. The partnerships are part of a series of events which continue Covent Garden’s commitment to supporting emerging art and design talent- named the Covent Garden Art Tank.

London Miles, under the curatorship of Phil Coleman and Tina Ziegler will be showcasing their LOWBROW movement- an underground visual art movement that arose in the Los Angeles, California, area in the late 1970s. LOWBROW is a widespread populist art movement with origins in the underground comic world, punk music, tattoo, hot-rod street culture, and other subcultures such as graffiti art. Here, having already caused a storm in the U.S, it makes its debut on the London scene and is sure to bring a bold splash of colour to the Piazza.

LOWBROW will show both original artworks from international artists and limited edition prints from seminal artists such as Amanda Visell, Joe Ledbetter and Dave Pressler

Matthew Plummer-Fernandez, a multi-disciplinary artist touted as one of London’s best five new designers and recent starlet of both the Milan and London Design Festivals, will be presenting his innovative new installation ‘Ink on Paper’. Mixing visual appeal with an important historical message, ‘Ink on Paper’ is a tribute to the fast disappearing hand printing processes. The gallery space will become an explosion of colour as animated glass vessels splatter coloured ink all over paper off-cuts that envelope the room. The layers of colour will build up over the duration of the exhibition, providing lasting testament to the plight of the manual printing industry.

‘Ink on Paper’ is in partnership with Kate Williams (glass) and Michelle Shields (photography).

From the birth of some of the UK’s most prolific design studios in Neal Street in the 1960’s, to hip hop and graffiti events outside the Royal Opera House in the ‘80s, Covent Garden London has long supported emerging artistic talent- from Fashion Fringe and the Design Festival to partnerships with institutions and collectives such as Designer’s Block and Somerset House. By working with London Miles and Matthew Plummer- Fernandez, the Covent Garden Art Tank continues this support.

LOWBROW by London Miles
www.londonmiles.com
July 6th - August 6th
42 The Market Building, Central Avenue, Covent Garden, WC2 8RF
INK ON PAPER by Matthew Plummer-Fernandez
7th – 16th July
11 The Market Building, Central Avenue, Covent Garden, WC2 8RF
Private view on Wednesday 8th July
11am-7pm Monday-Wednesday and Friday-Saturday, 11am-9pm Thursday and 11am-5pm Sunday

DISARONNO LAUNCH BOUTIQUE PARASOL DESIGNED BY ACCLAIMED FASHION HOUSE ANTONI & ALISON
The summer season has finally arrived and to celebrate Disaronno Amaretto has teamed up with the UK’s leading fashion house Antoni & Alison to design the ultimate accessory for the summer – boutique parasols. Television presenter and stylish model Jenni Falconer is launching the limited edition pieces, which will go on sale via www.disaronno.co.uk/parasolboutique at just £45 from June 15th.

The leading British fashion duo, Antoni & Alison, favourite of Kate Moss, Sienna Miller and Thandie Newton, have designed the chic Disaronno boutique parasols which are the must have accessory of the season. The design with bold red and amber tones and the abstract red heart design perfectly encapsulates the love story of Disaronno.

The boutique parasol comes in a stylish elegant case with an Antoni & Alison bespoke leather label.

TV presenter and model Jenni Falconer will also divulge all her top hints and tips to looking great this summer on www.disaronno.co.uk/parasolboutique. Jenni says “I think the Disaronno parasol is the ultimate stylish Italian accessory, whether out on a date or an evening with friends. I love the sophisticated heart design and it will instantly update any outfit.”

The creation of Disaronno can be traced all the way back to the Renaissance - one of the most romantic periods in history. In 1525 the painter Bernardino Luini, a student of Leonardo Da Vinci, was commissioned by the local church in Saronno, Italy, to create a fresco of the Madonna. The artist found inspiration in a young widowed innkeeper who became his model and muse. The woman fell deeply in love with Luini and too poor to buy a gift, she created a liqueur using a secret recipe of herbs and fruit steeped in crushed apricot kernel oil and gave her loved one the resulting concoction, Disaronno Amaretto.

To celebrate the launch, Ben Reed has designed the “Disaronno Iced Tea” and The “Disaronno Summer Superfruit” cocktails– recipes available at www.disaronno.co.uk/parasolboutique. These new Disaronno cocktails boast the delicious and distinctive taste of amaretto and are suitable for all sorts of occasions, from partying with friends to enjoying an indulgent night at home with a partner.

Disaronno is a versatile liqueur that can be enjoyed over ice or in a number of delicious cocktails. It is available in supermarkets and off licences (RRP £12.59 – 50cl).

To purchase the limited edition parasol visit www.disaronno.co.uk/parasolboutique on sale from the 15th of June.

Drink Aware

www.drinkaware.co.uk

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