BRONNLEY LAUNCHES 125TH ANNIVERSARY VELVET ROSE LIMITED EDITION

Established in 1884 H Bronnley & Co Ltd is celebrating their 125th anniversary. For 125 years Bronnley has been producing fine soaps and toiletries for customers all over the world. Using the finest natural ingredients and essential oils all Bronnley products are handmade in England.

In celebration of their floral heritage and in honour of the classic English Rose, Bronnley has created a beautiful and timeless 125th limited edition Velvet Rose Eau De Parfum. Classic and elegant this Rose Eau De Parfum mirrors the quality and elegance of the Bronnley brand and captures the timeless appeal and natural fragrant beauty of this treasured English flower. A limited number of 125 will be produced and each bottle will be individually numbered from 1 to 125. A hand written celebration message sealed with gold wax will be included inside each beautiful presentation box and ‘Number 1’ will be hand delivered to the Queen.

Each of the 125 bottles of ‘Velvet Rose Eau De Parfum’ come beautifully presented in a hand crafted authentic 19th century perfume bottle with atomiser. The romantic packaging captures the heritage, essence and personality of Bronnley in 1884 as well as Bronnley today. Available exclusively from select Bronnley stockists, each is priced at £125.

In addition to the 125th Velvet Rose limited edition Eau De Perfum, Bronnley has also created a celebration Velvet Rose collection that will be available through all major retailers. This includes the beautifully fragrant Velvet Rose Eau De Toilette, a quality box of luxury triple milled Velvet Rose Soaps and a luxurious individual triple milled soap to pamper and indulge.

Bronnley’s Velvet Rose is the ultimate enduring fragrance to celebrate the heritage and spirit of this classic British brand and is available from leading department stores and independent chemists nationwide. It is also available online at www.bronnley.co.uk or by calling 01280 702291 for stockists.

INTERBRAND SAYS "THE RISE OF SOCIAL MEDIA HAS REDEFINED THE MEDIA LANDSCAPE"

The media sector landscape is being redefined by non-traditional players, and is facing pressure from all sides. Technology companies such as Google, Twitter, and Facebook are entering the content creation and delivery arenas and giving users the power to dictate their means of media formation and consumption, threatening to render the old media brands obsolete.

As retailers, automobile dealerships, and small businesses fold due to the recession, regional newspapers that depend on local businesses for ad revenue have followed suit. Meanwhile, magazines face the decline of both advertising revenue and subscriptions. Digital media faces the challenge of providing defendable ROI numbers. In order to command scarce advertising revenue, brands need to justify their value to both audiences and advertisers. That means staying ahead of the competition, and both anticipating and responding to audience demands.

Recent media trends demonstrate the increasing importance of relevant, timely content. The brands that remain strong are the ones that deliver a relevant brand message backed by targeted content. If a brand is unable to deliver relevant content, users will simply find it elsewhere, or create it themselves. Customized content is king. User-generated content (blogs, podcasts, online communities, wikis, and social networking) is rising at a faster rate than editorial media. Social networking websites and microblogging sites make it easier than ever for customers to cherry pick and aggregate content. This holds true in the B2B and the B2C world. Media brands need to tailor to audience needs or else they’ll be forced out of the loop by social media tools.

Leading brands that understand this have developed ways to cull consumer insights. Interbrand’s BrandLogger successfully filters what is being said about the brand online, including newspapers, scientific journals, websites, blogs, and groups. It extracts, assesses, and clusters predefined terms or groups of terms to help businesses understand customers’ associations with their brands.

The rise of social media means brands must increasingly navigate the tension between maintaining brand values, and also allow users the freedom they increasingly demand. While it is important to manage the brand, finding the right balance between protecting the brand and giving up control will be critical for brands to continue to grow. Customers no longer accept only being spoken to. Customer engagement now requires sharing the reins of the brand.

In order to prosper, media brands must strive to forge an emotional connection with customers to capture and hold their attention through a myriad of content and delivery options. The traditional value-add of media companies is no longer enough. Brands need to be flexible and adaptive while still maintaining their brand integrity. Success in the future will require brands to be proactive in shaping the marketplace as well as reactive in addressing new and unpredictable challenges and ever-growing customer demands.
http://www.interbrand.com/

SHOPSTYLE LAUNCHES INDUSTRY-LEADING ‘INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING FILTER’ TO CONNECT RETAILERS TO SHOPPERS ACROSS THE GLOBE

And at the same time expands into Europe with launches of local sites in both France and Germany

ShopStyle.co.uk, the fashion site that brings together Britain’s favourite brands and stores under one digital roof, launched this week an innovative international shipping filter instantly allowing shoppers across the world to shop products accessible to them. ShopStyle also announced their expansion into Europe with launches of local ShopStyle sites in France and Germany.

The launch of ShopStyle’s international shipping filter will open up worldwide retail opportunities, meeting the needs of an increasingly globalised fashion marketplace. Over half of all the shops on the existing ShopStyle sites ship outside of their local country and 27% ship worldwide. These retailers on the ShopStyle sites in the US, UK and now France and Germany will become instantly available to a global audience vying for prestigious American and European fashion brands.

At the same time, ShopStyle’s fashion conscious consumers across the globe will now have the chance to easily find retailers that ship to their home country. This means that wherever you are in the world, you can access any one of ShopStyle’s sites and pick up unique French, German, UK and US brands, knowing that these retailers deliver to you.

ShopStyle launches this worldwide strategy in response to a growing demand from their users. Over 20% of all emails received by ShopStyle’s customer service and a quarter of the overall traffic to ShopStyle sites comes from outside of the US and UK, with regular visitors from Australia, Germany, France, Netherlands, Italy, Scandinavia, Eastern Europe, China, and Japan all in search of fashion that can be delivered to their door.

The increased global focus coincides with the launch of new European sites, ShopStyle.fr and ShopStyle.de. These new sites will be offering local fashion brands and online retailers in both countries the opportunity to retail their collections to an international marketplace including over 3.5 million unique users across the UK and US ShopStyle sites.

Shannon Edwards, Director Europe for ShopStyle, says: “With a significant need and demand from ShopStyle users outside of the US and UK, asking for a list of retailers that ship to them, we knew there was a need for a tool like the international shipping filter. With this technology, we can now offer retailers the chance to reach out to a global fashion marketplace, meaning that they can quickly and cost efficiently test new territories and generate sales.”

“At the same time, our users throughout the world are able to go shopping in London, Paris, Berlin, LA or NYC at the click of a mouse,” she continues.

ShopStyle UK is creating waves in the UK ecommerce market with its focus on revolutionizing the way women shop online. Launched in September 2008, the site is developing rapidly. The site also introduced three new features – MyBrands, ShopStyle 100 and Style Filter - designed to allow the user to create and personalize their desired shopping experience.
http://www.shopstyle.co.uk/

Editor’s Note: This is a global trend that we have also noticed here at Hot Brands, not only have we seen an increase in visitors from very similar countries to ShopStyle, but we are also gaining increasing interest from companies wanting to be listed in our Directory, we already have companies from Australia, Europe and Japan and we see this as a growing trend as increasingly consumers are excited by exploring the global marketplace. It’s a fantastic opportunity for any business able to see the potential of global marketing.

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL HIGH STREET! VOTE FOR THE BEST SHOP IN BRITAIN IN THE TELEGRAPH MAGAZINE SHOP AWARDS 2009

Telegraph Magazine has just launched its biggest ever Telegraph Shop Awards in the Telegraph Magazine and on Telegraph.co.uk/shopawards. The Awards recognise the very best that the British high street has to offer, from national and international brands to the smallest independent retailers.

Shoppers can reward those stores that are responding to today’s difficult challenges, and raising their game with better service, good value for money and an improved retail experience.

This year, for the first time, you can also now vote for local shops in your area. With tight profit margins, thousands of independent local shops are feeling the squeeze, and local high streets are more vulnerable than ever. It’s the perfect time to reward those retailers who engage their customers in a meaningful way.

Vote for your favourite British shop online by going to Telegraph.co.uk/shopawards.

The categories include best shop for women’s fashion, best shop for men’s fashion, best for food and drink, best for home, best for entertainment, best for health and beauty and new for this year, best online retailer.

Voting closes on September 25 and the final results will be announced at an awards ceremony in London and in the Telegraph Magazine in late November. The winning shops will form “Britain’s perfect high street”, a virtual street comprising the nation’s favourite national and local stores, which will be featured online at Telegraph.co.uk.

Michele Lavery, editor of the Telegraph Magazine, said: “With so much negative press surrounding the shopping sector this is a chance to celebrate everything that is good about British retail. In the current economic climate, shoppers are more discerning than ever and this is their opportunity to tell us what they really think, as well as rewarding the retailers who go the extra mile by offering superior customer service and excellent value for money.”

Voters will be entered into a prize draw and could find themselves winning one of several fantastic prizes, from a day of shopping and pampering at Harvey Nichols to a two night stay at the luxury New York Palace Hotel in Manhattan.

HELP FIONA RAISE OVER HALF A MILLION POUNDS FOR ALZHEIMER’S SOCIETY

To coincide with World Alzheimer’s Day on 21st September, Healthspan, the UK’s leading direct supplier of nutritional supplements has joined forces with Alzheimer’s Society to raise over half a million pounds in support of their work.

The campaign entitled ‘Help for Today, Hope for Tomorrow’ is supported by Fiona Phillips, Alzheimer’s Society Ambassador, and aims to provide help and hope for the thousands of people with dementia in the UK today.

Healthspan has pledged to make a donation on behalf of their customers old and new over the next three months. The money will be used to fund dementia research in the UK to improve the lives of people today and find a cure for tomorrow. It will also help towards vital services such as Alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia Helpline which provides information, advice and support to people living with dementia.

Every order from a customer new to Healthspan (however small) will generate an automatic £5 donation to Alzheimer’s Society. Customers simply need to quote the code “ALZ-KSE” when placing a freephone telephone order on 0800 73 12377 or ordering online at www.healthspan.co.uk.

Founder and CEO of Healthspan Derek Coates says; “There are 700,000 people living with dementia in the UK today. This is a huge number and it is estimated that one million people will develop dementia in the next 10 years. That doesn’t even take into consideration the millions of people who are affected by caring for a loved one or friend.”

Continues Derek; “We are delighted to announce the fundraising initiative with Alzheimer’s Society and Fiona Phillips that aims to raise over half a million pounds giving help for today and hope for tomorrow”.

Neil Hunt, Chief Executive, Alzheimer’s Society, says, “Alzheimer’s Society is delighted that Healthspan are making this generous donation for every new customer and are aiming to raise over £500,000. The money will enable us to provide support to people affected by dementia, and will help fund research. Dementia research is desperately under-funded. The Government invests eight times less in dementia research than cancer research. That is why donations such as those from Healthspan are essential in order to help us fight dementia.”

Fiona Phillips is also supporting Alzheimer’s Society Memory Walks which will be happening across the UK to coincide with World Alzheimer’s Day.

For more information about ‘Help for Today and Hope for Tomorrow’ and to help donate please visit www.healthspan.co.uk.
For more information about Alzheimer’s Society Memory Walks, pleasevisit: www.memorywalk.org.uk

TENPILATES OPENS IN THE WEST END WITH MAYFAIR STUDIO

TenPilates announces the opening of its third studio, with the launch of the TenPilates Mayfair. Set to open on the 14th of September, TenPilates Mayfair is located at the Matt Roberts premises on Berkeley Street, bringing Dynamic Pilates to the West End.

Sharing its address with the likes of Nobu and Dover Street Market, and only a short walk from Bond Street, the TenPilates Mayfair Studio is set to be Central London’s most desirable Pilates destination.

TenPilates is the home of Dynamic Pilates, an innovative, results-driven programme that uses custom Reformer beds to develop core strength, improve posture and flexibility and build lean, toned muscles. Enjoyable and empowering, the Dynamic Pilates classes deliver their impressively effective body-sculpting benefits in spacious, welcoming and supportive environments, and are ideal for anyone who wants to see as well as feel the benefits, fast.

David Higgins, co-founder and Master Trainer at TenPilates commented “Our clients have been asking us when we’re going to open in the West End, and so we’re really excited to be announcing the news of this studio. We are delighted to be bringing Dynamic Pilates into Mayfair.”

TenPilates’ new six-bed Mayfair studio offers classes to suit all levels of ability and fitness. In addition to the classes, the studio programme features one-on-one training, Pre and Post Natal and rehab sessions for those recovering from back pain or injury. As with the other two TenPilates studios, there is no membership fee or annual subscription and clients only pay for the classes they attend.

“The TenPilates service has great synergy with our Personal Training techniques and I am looking forward to adding it to our clients’ regimes,” said Matt Roberts.

The studio’s location within the Matt Roberts premises enables clients to experience a combination of cutting-edge Pilates disciplines as well as the range of cardio-fitness, physiotherapy, biomechanics, dietician and sports massage services offered by Matt Roberts – resulting in a fitness set up that is the first of its kind in the UK.

Classes at TenPilates Mayfair can be booked through the dedicated phone line: 0207 629 4395 or online at www.tenpilates.com

Prices start at £12.50 for the first class with private personal training sessions starting at £80.

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS 2009
Introducing the Limited-Edition Cashmere Mist Eau de Toilette Spray

"To know me is to know my love of cashmere. I design with it and personally live in it 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 Toilette Spray will include a pink ribbon deco on both the bottle and carton to support The Breast Cancer Research Foundation for its research programme at the UK's Royal Marsden Institute of Cancer Research.

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

Funds raised from the purchase of products in the Republic of Ireland go to the Cancer Clinical Research Trust, St Vincents Hospital, Dublin City University College, Dublin.

€2 from every purchase of Limited Edition Donna Karan Cashmere Mist Eau de Toilette Spray, will go to the Cancer Clinical Research Trust (a registered trust which supports a cancer research program based in St Vincent’s Hospital, Dublin City University College, Dublin.)

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.

Cashmere Mist Eau de Toilette Spray, 50ml RRP £39 / €57

STOCKISTS – 0870 034 2566

SWAROVSKI AND BREAST CANCER CARE BRING A CHRISTMAS CAROL TO ST PAUL’S CATHEDRAL

Swarovski are delighted to announce their official partnership with Breast Cancer Care for the seventh consecutive year and to celebrate, Swarovski will be sponsoring an amazing occasion of fashion, fundraising and entertainment in London on December 9th 2009.

For many people, Christmas carol singing signals the countdown to Christmas and on the eve of Wednesday 9th December - for one-year only - Swarovski and Breast Cancer Care will hold a Carol Service at the exalted St Paul’s Cathedral in the City of London. The sensational and world renowned venue will provide a prestigious platform for British film, television and stage actors, Jeremy Irons and Timothy West who will perform festive readings, and Jonathan Ansell, the operatic tenor from G4, will be gracing the congregation with his unique vocals. In addition, St Paul’s famous choir will lead the congregation in carols for an unforgettable experience.

For guests wishing to continue the Christmas merriment, we extend the invitation to attend an intimate Champagne Supper after the Carols, for 250 guests in The Crypt below the Cathedral floor.*

Breast Cancer Care is delighted that Swarovski will support the Carol Service at St Paul’s Cathedral and tickets will be available to buy for the public.
Tickets for the carol concert at St Paul’s are on sale now! www.breastcancercare.org.uk/carols or call 0845 092 0806

Illuminating Fashion and Culture, Home and Leisure www.swarovski.com.

Breast Cancer Care is here for anyone affected by breast cancer. We bring people together, provide information and support, and campaign for improved standards of care. We use our understanding of people's experience of breast cancer and our clinical expertise in everything we do. Visit www.breastcancercare.org.uk or call our free helpline on 0808 800 6000.

* Terms and Conditions apply

EVERYONE WANTS TO BE FAMOUS. EVERYONE DREAMS OF STARDOM.
Everyone wants to make it in Hollywood. It’s glamorous. It’s over-the-top. It’s fabulous. Everything in Hollywood is bigger, brighter and more deluxe. The possibilities are unlimited. Cameras flash. Headlines are written. Legends are created overnight. All amidst the over-the-top glamour, the electricity and the sexy, sizzling, decadence of hot, hot Hollywood.

Very Hollywood Michael Kors Eau de Parfum Spray, 100ml RRP £66.55 / €98 50ml RRP £46.98 / €70 30ml RRP £33.28 / €49

The essence of Hollywood glamour in a bottle. The fragrance debuts with mandarin and iced bergamot as the plot unfolds with wet jasmine, ylang ylang and raspberry against gardenia and topped with Italian orris, creamy amber and soft white moss with vetiver for the perfect Hollywood ending.

Very Hollywood Michael Kors Hollywood Fabulotion, 150ml RRP £33.28 / €49
Diamonds may be a girl’s best friend, but this luxurious, lightweight lotion will leave skin soft, smooth and looking like a million dollars.

Very Hollywood Michael Kors Luxe Perfume Spray, 30ml* RRP £200 / €300
Like a best-actress award on the dressing table, the Hollywood Luxe Perfume Spray steals the spotlight. Truly a fragrance fit for Hollywood royalty.

Very Hollywood Michael Kors Hollywood Gem Solid Perfume Ring* RRP £39.15 / €60
Cause a stir on the red carpet with this one-of-a-kind cocktail ring. A solid perfume is discreetly concealed beneath the dazzling pink bauble. Perfect for touch-ups in the limo.
The Very Hollywood Michael Kors Collection will be exclusive to Harrods and Brown Thomas from the 14th September 2009* then nationwide from the 14th October 2009
Stockist Number: 0870 034 2566
* Exclusive to Harrods and Brown Thomas stores only
http://veryhollywood.com/

THE WORLD’S SLIMMEST CAMERA… THAT ALSO DOES YOUR MAKEUP - CASIO’S EXILIM CARD EX-S12
No time or money to book a makeup artist before a night on the town? No need to worry. The new Casio EX-S12 is the best kept beauty secret – it is not only small enough to fit in your pocket, it also has an exclusive “makeup mode” that makes you look flawless every time and gives your pictures an unparalleled professional finish.

Designed with style in mind the EX-S12 is the world’s slimmest camera. Its elegant, credit card sized body measures just 15.0 mm thin making it ideal to hide away in a handbag.

Despite its micro size, the most impressive function of the EX-S12 is its “makeup mode”. The camera can smooth skin, lighten cheek bones and illuminate eyes, at the click of a button.

By creating optimum lighting effects, the EX-S12 softens harsh white lights than show imperfections in images resulting in a flawless made up photograph.

To ensure that your made-up image is pristine, the EX-S12 also boasts motion blur detection technology. The camera can automatically take a photo at the instant when hand shake or subject movement ceases, so in any situation you can always create the perfect shot.

The EX-S12 also boasts 3 x optical zoom and a 2.7-inch widescreen LCD monitor and has an effective 12.1-megapixel resolution, maintaining functionality as well as embodying a stylish design.

The EX-S12 retails at £230 and can be purchased from all http://www.casioatcarnaby.co.uk good camera stockists.

NEW ENGLAND RUGBY KIT
Today sees the launch of Nike’s new England Rugby Home kit for the 2009/10 season – the lightest and most innovative playing jersey ever worn by the squad.

The new kit is 27% lighter than in previous seasons, designed to give the team every possible advantage on the pitch.

Tight fitting rugby apparel was introduced by Nike in 2003 in a bid to help reduce the opportunity to be tackled via the shirt, and this season sees further innovations to improve the fit of the apparel. The ergonomically designed jersey, with underarm sleeve panels gives players complete freedom of movement, an optimised fit and comfort.

Visually the classic all-white playing shirt returns, embracing the tradition and history of the English game. The front of the shirt boasts an open neck collar and iconic embroidered Rose.

On the back the jersey carries the motto “RUGBEIA FLOREAT UBIQUE” Latin for ‘RUGBY FLOURISHES EVERYWHERE’, plus a subtle print of the St George’s flag to capture the spirit of the England side.

A new and improved ‘gripper’ print features on the chest panels of the jersey, effective in both wet and dry weather. Nike has worked with players to ensure that the gripper print is positioned at the optimum position on the chest to help catch and carry the ball, whilst the gripper layout was inspired by the famous structure of Twickenham Stadium.

Nike’s Dri Fit fabric has been specially engineered to be stronger and more flexible than ever, ensuring that sweat is moved away from players’ bodies to provide comfort and enhance performance against the opposition.

Along with the shirt, the shorts and socks have been developed to improve comfort and moisture management for the full 80 minutes of the game. For the shorts, Nike has used two fabrics: a woven ripstop as the main fabric, ideal for lifting in the lineout, and a chamois to keep the players’ hands dry and the front gusset design provides maximum range of movement for the players in all situations.

The sock is made up of a mix of lycra and nylon separated into three zones, with the footbed containing Coolmax technology to keep the foot drier and cooler than ever before. The home sock also enhances the classic aesthetic by returning to the traditional obsidian. In addition, for the first time the St George’s Cross has been integrated into the sock to create a further cultural connection.

Pre-order your new kit now by visiting www.rfudirect.com and see England in action this autumn in the Investec Challenge Series against Australia (November 7), Argentina (November 14) and New Zealand (November 21).

Tickets for the Investec Challenge, England v Argentina game are available now priced at £45 and £65 for adults and £10 for under 16s via www.rfu.com/tickets or by calling Ticketmaster on 0844 8472492.

ALL ABOUT AUTUMN - ENGLISH HERITAGE OFFERS OUT AND ABOUT EVENTS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY-

EVENT INFORMATION:

English Heritage also offers a wide range of Halloween, haunted events and ghost tours this October.

SUNDAY AFTERNOON BAND CONCERT
Brodsworth Hall and Gardens, South Yorkshire
Sunday 20th September, 3pm - 5pm
A delightful way to spend an autumn afternoon. Enjoy the gardens in the company of one of the best of South Yorkshire's musical brass bands. The perfect opportunity for a family picnic.
Prices: Adults £5.00/ Concessions £4.30/ Children £2.50
English Heritage Members: Free

BOUNTIFUL HARVEST TIME!
Audley End House and Gardens, Essex
Saturday 26 & Sunday 27 September, 11am - 5pm
Come along to Audley End for a weekend of harvest themed food and activities. Enjoy fruit and vegetable stalls, games and competitions.
Prices: Adults £10.70 / Concessions £9.10 / Children £5.40 / Family Ticket £26.80
English Heritage Members: Free

KING HENRY'S TABLE
Clifford's Tower, North Yorkshire
Saturday 26 & Sunday 27 September, 11am - 5pm
Coinciding with the York Food & Drink Festival, we return to the days of King Henry VIII with a display of the food and drink that the Tudor monarch would have had for his Royal breakfast. Discover some of the surprising secrets of Tudor cookery including just how much food King Henry and his entourage would have consumed.
Prices: Adults £3.50 / Concessions £3.00 / Children £1.80 / Family Ticket £8.80
English Heritage Members: Free

EXCLUSIVE ENCOUNTER FALCONRY DAYS
Rievaulx Abbey, North Yorkshire
Saturday 3 - Sunday 4 October, 10.30am - 5pm
Experience a day long workshop that fuses ancient practice with modern science. A wonderful opportunity for nature lovers, amateur ornithologists and outdoor enthusiasts alike to explore the historic art of falconry. Try your hand at knot tying, making leather equipment and building birds from feathers, then top the day off with a thrilling flying session with a bird of your choice. The Encounter Falconry Day is hosted by Raphael Falconry who have a collection of 18 birds and more than 45 years combined experience.
(Participants must be over 16. No accompanying spectators or dogs allowed.)
Booking essential, call 0870 333 1183
Prices: Adults £70.00 / Concessions £70.00, Children
English Heritage Members: Adults £65.00 / Concessions £65.00, Children

THE MAKING OF ENGLAND. BATTLE OF HASTINGS
1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey and Battlefield, East Sussex
Saturday 10 October - Sunday 11 October, 10am - 4pm
Re-live the atmosphere and tension of medieval battle as over 400 soldiers clash in our annual re-enactment of the 1066 Battle of Hastings. Immerse yourself in medieval life as you stroll around the living history encampments; be amazed by the Norman Cavalry display; watch the chain mail and weaponry makers and take an entertaining look at the Bayeux Tapestry on a washing line.
Booking recommended, call 0870 333 1183
Prices: Adults £10.00/ Concessions £8.50/ Children £5.00/ Family Ticket £25.00
English Heritage Members: Adults £3.30/ Concessions £2.80/ Children £1.60/ Family Ticket £8.20

THE ENCHANTED GARDEN
Brodsworth Hall and Gardens, South Yorkshire
Friday 23 October - Sunday 1 November, 6.30pm - 9pm (Last admission at 8.30pm.)
Enter a magical world for a bewitching night-time experience as the magnificently restored Victorian gardens of Brodsworth Hall are illuminated to become a place of enchantment. Out of the darkness, the hall emerges draped in light, music drifts across the night air as you wind your way through the gardens with surprises waiting around every corner. This garden walk will delight young and old alike.
The shop will be open and refreshments available on these special evening openings.
Booking recommended, call 0870 333 1183
Prices: Adults £7.50 / Concessions £6.50 / Children £6.00
English Heritage Members: Adults £6.00 / Concessions £5.00 / Children £4.50
This event is supported by Ecclesiastical*

ROAMING ROMANS TRAIL FOR CHILDREN & DRESS AS A ROMAN SOLDIER
Chesters Roman Fort, Northumberland
Saturday 24 October - Sunday 1 November, 10am - 4pm
After leaving their posts to shelter from a terrible storm, the mini model Roman soldiers have become lost. Can you find them? Plus, there's a chance to get involved.
Prices: Adults £4.50 / Concessions £3.80 / Children £2.30
English Heritage Members: Free

MEDIEVAL KNIGHT'S TRAIL & DRESSING UP FOR CHILDREN
Beeston Castle, Cheshire
Saturday 24 October & Sunday 1 November, 10am - 4pm
The Queen has asked you to invite the mini model English Heritage knights and squires to a banquet. Can you find them and deliver this invitation in time? You'll be royally rewarded with a fun sticker. Plus, there is the chance to dress the part with a dressing up box full of children's size medieval costumes ready for your very own photo opportunity.
Prices: Adults £5.00 / Concessions £4.30 / Children £2.50
English Heritage Members: Free
(Car parking charge applies.)

FLORA, FAUNA AND ALL CREATURES GREAT AND SMALL
The Home of Charles Darwin, Down House, London
Monday 26 - Friday 30 October, 11am-4pm
Budding young naturalists can tour the gardens at Down House with a Victorian explorer using their magnifying glass to seek out creatures great and small.
Normal admission prices apply: Adults £8.80, Concessions £7.50, Children £4.40, Family Ticket £22.00
English Heritage Members: Free

IS SCRUMPTIOUS THE NATIONS FAVORITE APPLE VARIETY?

Is Scrumptious the nation’s favorite apple variety? Well it is the apple variety most popular with visitors to The National Fruit Collection at Brogdale Farm, Faversham this year who decide to take a tree home, following their tour of the orchards.

And as apple season begins at Brogdale with the Cider Festival taking place 19 and 20th September followed by the Apple Festival 17th and 18th October, one thing is certain there will be many more apple trees growing in gardens around the country thanks to the inspiration of the collection.

Visitors to Brogdale Farm can take home any of the 4,000 trees in the collection thanks to opening of Grow earlier this year, a new onsite nursery. Grow also offers a grafting service if you want a fruit tree grafted onto a particular rootstock, or if you have a tree in your own garden you want to replicate.

Scrumptious has been propagated in Kent and has been specifically bred for UK garden growing. It has a wonderfully complex flavour described as fragrant & honeyed, liquorice & wine, a bunch of cherries, fresh, aromatic, soft & delicate, crisp & sweet.

It is a mid-season grower and suitable for all areas across the UK. It is self fertile, frost hardy and has a delicate skin, great for to enjoy straight from the tree.

Sally Roger, marketing manager at Brogdale Collections comments: “Visitors to the collection, especially amateur gardeners tend to be inspired at how easy it is to grow fruit at home and given the choice of over 4,000 varieties there is something for everyone within the collection”.

Martyn Cooper at Grow comments: “There are so many romantic and inspiring names in the collections; this also makes a fabulous and versatile gift. Now is the time to start ordering trees or grafts ahead of winter planting season. Advice can be given and courses are available so absolutely anyone can grow fruit at home.”

Further details about the festivals, courses and visiting Brogdale Farm can be found at www.brogdalecollections.co.uk or go to www.brogdaleonline.co.uk to order trees online.

Brogdale Farm is run by Brogdale Collections, a social enterprise company with the principle aim of creating awareness and interest in The National Fruit Collections and to enhance the long term sustainable future for the living collections at Brogdale Farm.

Opening times
10.00am to 5.00pm 7 Days a week
Guided walk are available Tuesday – Sunday - times are: 11.00am, 13.00pm and 14.30pm
Self guided walk available 7 days per week during opening hours

Festival days adults cost £6, children £3 and the under 2s are free. Free entrance to Gift Shop, The Orchard Tearooms and Marketplace shops which sell a variety of local produce and gifts.

19 -20 September 2009 Cider Festival – Entertainment to include local band, hog roast, tips on growing cider apples and making cider, gardening talks, cooking demonstrations using fruit in season and a bar including lots of local cider to taste! Experts will be on hand to identify fruit and give one to one expert advice.

17 - 18 October 2009 Apple Festival – Taste the biggest apple in Britain! Literally hundreds of different apple varieties to taste and take home. Entertainment to include live music, hog roast, and tips on growing apples.

LATE DEALS IN OCTOBER FROM WWW.HOLIDAYLETTINGS.CO.UK

23 Crail Road, Anstruther, Fife
www.holidaylettings.co.uk/71287
Available now until 9 October for £295/week, sleeping up to six.
This two bedroom house within a small courtyard development is in the centre of Anstruther and within two minutes walk of the seafront. Stay for a week and visit a different beach every day, play golf at some of the country’s finest courses and explore beautiful, nearby St Andrews. Bring your tennis rackets too, there are courts and a playground just around the corner.

The Cowshed, Whitecroft Farm, Carisbrooke, Isle of Wight
www.holidaylettings.co.uk/87870
Available 19 September to 3 October for £250/week, sleeping up to two.
A gem of rustic period features and warm interior decor this hideaway on the outskirts of Carisbrooke is a delight just for two. In the centre of the island, it’s a great spot from which to explore all reaches and is just 15 minutes from Cowes.

Inglenook Cottage, Croyde, Devon
www.holidaylettings.co.uk/11365
Available 19 September to 3 October for £295/week, sleeping eight.
A charming and characterful cottage in the heart of this picturesque coastal village. Soak up the autumn sun in the enclosed garden or wander 10 minutes across the dunes to Croyde Bay and its restaurants and shops. Don’t forget to pack your surf board, or get in touch with Point Breaks for a three hour lesson.

Creekside Cottage, Gweek, Cornwall
www.holidaylettings.co.uk/95018
Available 18 September until 16 October for £295/week, sleeping six.
This three bedroom stone fronted cottage is packed with charm from Ash floorboards to an ornamental Cornish range. From its elevated position the views across the Helford Estuary with its yacht moorings are magnificent. Enjoy coastal walks along the Lizard peninsula or venture further afield to the Eden Project and Isles of Scilly.

Island Point Apartment, Porth, Newquay, Cornwall
www.holidaylettings.co.uk/56413
Available now until 2 October for £300/week, sleeping six.
Porth is a great spot for a family break with its family-friendly beach and the quieter atmosphere than neighbouring Newquay. For action packed days there is the world renowned surf beach at Fistral Bay and Watergate Bay where both extreme sports fans and gastronomes head (for Jamie Oliver’s 15 Restaurant). The two bedroom apartment has all the homely comforts plus a sea view balcony for an early evening tipple while watching the sunset.

Europe

Villa Q, Algrave, Loule, Portugal
www.holidaylettings.co.uk/27963
Available now until 15 October for £995 per week.
The Algrave is the perfect place for a holiday anytime of the year due it its fantastic climate, sandy beaches and friendly people. Sleeping up to 10 this brand new luxurious five bedroom villa is the ideal holiday accommodation for large families or groups of friends. Located in the tranquil hills around Loule, you’ll find superb restaurants and shops within a five minute drive from your doorstep. The villa is set within two acres of garden boasting a games room, large heated pool and the most fantastic views along the coastline.


Chez Baron, Cherveix-Cubas, France
www.holidaylettings.co.uk/19644
Available now until 17 October for £263 per week.
Chez Baron is a welcoming holiday cottage situated two kilometres from Cherveix-Cubas, an ideal place for a relaxing holiday away from the hustle and bustle of the typical tourist areas. The autumn and spring weather is mild making it enjoyable to visit the local markets, caves, and castles or partake in canoeing, horse riding, and golf. In the evenings enjoy dinner in the outside terraced area overlooking the private landscaped swimming pool.


Villa Brio, Kefalonia, Greece
www.holidaylettings.co.uk/12416
Available now until 18 October for £543 per week.
Villa Brio Complex is your balcony to the sea! Only one of its kind in Kefalonia, this seafront accommodation is made up of four elegant self-catering villas with private beach, swimming pools and stunning views over the Ionian Sea. The villas have been smartly designed to satisfy those who opt for finesse & affordable luxury. The complex is located at the edge of the famous sandy beach of Skala village, just one mile from the village and 30 minutes from the island’s International Airport. At Villa Brio guests can combine moments of tranquility in the privacy of its seafront location, along with vivid night life at the nearby villages of Skala & Poros.


12 Red Pine Villa, Gocek, Turquoise Coast, Turkey
www.holidaylettings.co.uk/90827
Available now until 18 October for £450 per week.
Holiday in this brand new luxury four bedroom detached villa. Enjoy the use of a private swimming pool, private garden, tennis and basketball court as well as children’s play area. Guests have use of fitness centre, sauna and Turkish bath to relax in after a day of exploring. The Turquoise coast which is known as the ‘Turkish Riviera’, home to two of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World - Temple of Artemis at Ephesus and the Mausoleum of Maussollo at Halicarnassus.

MASALA ZONE INVITES DINERS TO CELEBRATE IN STYLE AS LONDON FASHION WEEK APPROACHES!
Award-winning, casual dining Indian restaurant serves the world’s top fashionistas authentic and healthy Indian cuisine, to celebrate the launch of one of the biggest events of the international fashion calendar

As the A-list of the international fashion world arrives at the cutting edge, creative and culinary capital of Europe to preview the most original and exciting collections from the top British designers, London’s leading celebrity restaurants are also getting ready to showcase their diversity and talents in the kitchen to fashionistas from all over the world.

Masala Zone, London’s most innovative and authentic casual Indian dining venue, marks this exciting occasion with its Ayurvedic Thali – a healthy and hearty meal for the style and figure conscious diners without compromising the authenticity and flavour of traditional Indian cuisine. Since the restaurant launch in 2001, Masala Zone has always been the top choice of Indian restaurant for the health and time conscious fashion circle, regularly visited by fashion editors and execs.

Conveniently located in Soho, Covent Garden, Camden Town, Islington, Earls Court and the newly opened Masala Zone in Bayswater, each restaurant is artistically themed around a particular tradition of Indian art and culture that boasts its own distinct style.

Masala Zone and its highly respected sister restaurants – Chutney Mary, Veeraswamy and Amaya – are part of the Masala World Group,

BRICK LANE CURRY FESTIVAL BACK WITH A BANG TO SPICE UP LONDON’S EAST END!
Europe’s Curry Capital plays host to Europe’s biggest celebration of exotic food and culture

Brick Lane Curry Festival, with lead sponsor Cobra Beer, returns in 2009 even bigger, better and tastier than before as once again, Europe’s Curry Capital pays homage to the nation’s favourite dish – the curry! Launching on Sunday 27th September 2009, the two-week festival will comprise a hearty celebration of exotic food, culture and the full flavours of the East, running until Saturday 10th October 2009. The Chef of the Year: Banglatown ’09 will also be selected during the outdoor Best Curry Competition on Wednesday 23rd September.

Now a cultural and gastronomic institution in its own right, Brick Lane Curry Festival is renowned as one of UK’s biggest and most exciting cross cultural street parties, regularly attracting over 60,000 visitors on its opening day. Established over seven years ago, the launch event on 27th September will take shape as a buzzing street festival of sumptuous cuisine and al fresco dining; eclectic music, dance and street art performances; stalls providing unique Bangladeshi snacks and sweets; and ushers in traditional Indian costumes, snake charmers and chanachur walas (traditional snack sellers) entertaining visitors. For the days following the lively street gastronomic extravaganza, restaurants along the entire length of Brick Lane will provide festive menus, special offers and live entertainment.

Ahead of the Launch event, Wednesday 23rd September will witness the Best Curry Competition, when the curry Chef of the Year: Banglatown ‘09 will be selected by way of the biggest public curry cook-off Europe has ever seen! Chefs from Brick Lane will prepare and cook their dishes in an outdoor kitchen, to serve up for the media, food connoisseurs and passers-by. The winner will be selected by a panel of four judges, comprising a well-known celebrity, MP, high profile dignitary and a specially selected member of the public.

Brick Lane Curry Festival’s launch event will attract over 60,000 people, all wanting to soak up the atmosphere and flavours of this highly acclaimed global mix of food, music, history, art and culture. The entire length of Brick Lane and Osborn Street will be closed to create easy access for the crowds and add to the festival atmosphere. This will also make way for the al fresco dining opportunities that will be provided by the multitude of longstanding restaurants, which have added colour, flavour and character to one of London’s most infamous streets for years and transformed Brick Lane into a cultural and social hotspot for tourists and Londoners alike.

Comments Event Organiser, Amir Hussain, “After a one year hiatus, Brick Lane Curry Festival is back, even bigger and better than before. Brick Lane is a melting pot of social groups, cultures and sub cultures, who all congregate against the characteristic backdrop of the colourful and vibrant Bangladeshi restaurants.

“These restaurants have made a huge contribution to the UK economy and been largely responsible for bringing tourism and visitors from far and wide to the area. They have also transformed Brick Lane into one of UK’s most popular and vibrant destinations. The Brick Lane Curry Festival will give fans and newcomers to the area the chance to experience the full kaleidoscope of colours, flavour and atmosphere that the region has to offer.”

Karan Bilimoria, Founder and Chairman, Cobra Beerthe lead sponsor for the Brick Lane Curry Festival comments: “Brick Lane is a cultural gem and is truly London’s curry capital. You cannot but be mesmerised by the vast array of offerings and delicious food available. Cobra Beer is proud to have been present in Brick Lane since we started twenty years ago and to have seen Brick Lane grow from strength to strength over the last decades. We are truly grateful and appreciative of the support we have received from Brick Lane over the years. Cobra Beer is delighted to support the Brick Lane Curry Festival 2009 and we wish it every success.”

Brick Lane Curry Festival commences with the Launch Event on Sunday 27th September, running until Saturday 10th October. The Best Curry Competition will take place on Wednesday 23rd September.

To win the opportunity of joining the panel of judges for the Best Curry Competition, members of the public can simply log on to the official festival website: www.bricklanecurryfestival.com

Please Note
All information is supplied to us by the individual organizations, or agencies acting on their behalf. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that all information is accurate, it may be subject to change. Please check with individual organizations for the latest information about all events, products, promotions, or news items. Inclusion in a news item does not imply endorsement by Hot Brands Cool Places. Recipes have not been tested by Hot Brands Cool Places. Hot Brands Cool Places does not accept responsibility for the content of any external site.