BY ELISE AT COUTTS LONDON JEWELLERY WEEK
Coutts London Jewellery Week, is a public and private sector initiative which aims to maximise support for small and medium-sized enterprises and entrepreneurs by supporting London's vibrant jewellery industry during a week of activities from the 8th to the 14th June . As part of this celebration By Elise the Yorkshire based designer will be exhibiting her “Signature Range” of pearl and semi-precious stone necklaces at The Balmoral Suite, Royal Garden Hotel, Kensington on the 11th June between 10.30am and 8.30 pm where all the items will be available to purchase on the day. Entrance is free and for further information see www.byelise.com

ALSO, BELGRAVIA ROCKS - A GEM OF A TREASURE HUNT
In celebration of Coutts London Jewellery Week (8-14 June), the jewellers of Belgravia - Erickson Beamon, De Vroomen, Kim Poor and Carolina Bucci - have joined together to create an exciting treasure hunt across Belgravia.

From Monday 8th June jewellery lovers can visit each of the four boutiques to identify the ‘odd piece out’ and be entered into the draw to win a piece of jewellery or gift from each store. Kim Poor have given a stunning Jade necklace with Carolina Bucci adding one of her signature silver lucky bracelets. Erickson Beamon are donating an eye catching semi precious necklace and De Vroomen a £200 gift voucher.

The hunt will culminate in the colourful Elizabeth Street Carnival on 10th June. Each year the Carnival sees local residents, traders and party-goers join together to celebrate the start of summer in a spectacular form with a vibrant party on one of the most famous streets in Belgravia. From 6pm Elizabeth Street will be transformed into a dynamic carnival with bands, street entertainers and speciality food and drink served from local stores.

The winner of the treasure hunt will be announced on the eve of the Carnival. For details about the treasure hunt please visit www.inbelgravia.com or pop into any participating store.

Belgravia Rocks Treasure Hunt
Date: Monday 08 - Wednesday 10 June 2009
Location: Elizabeth Street & Motcomb Street, Belgravia

Jewellers participating:
Erickson Beamon – 38 Elizabeth Street
Kim Poor – 53 Elizabeth Street
De Vroomen – 59 Elizabeth Street
Carolina Bucci – 4 Motcomb Street

Elizabeth Street Party
Organised by the Belgravia Trader’s Association, the Elizabeth Street Party is an annual street carnival taking place in June, inviting residents and visitors alike to come and enjoy the return of summer with food, music and joie de vivre.

When: Wednesday 10 June
Time: 6pm – 11pm
Where: Elizabeth Street, Belgravia
Entry to the Elizabeth Street Party is £3 ‘on the door’ with all proceeds going ‘Veterans Aid’.

Coutts London Jewellery Week
The award-winning Coutts London Jewellery Week is returning between 8-14 June 2009, bringing together the capital’s top jewellery talent for a week-long celebration with a series of events planned across the city. It is organised by the City fringe Partnership with funding from the London Development Agency and sponsored by Coutts & Co private bank. Visit www.londonjewelleryweek.co.uk for more information or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

ORGANIC LINEN - MADE IN EUROPE
Ochre & Ocre are launching their luxurious new Organic Linen table linen range at the Summer Good Food Show, this June, 2009.

The new range of fine table linens, are made from Italian Organic Linen, which is then woven and finished in Portugal. The range consists of table cloths, in three generous sizes, beautifully finished with subtle Ochre coloured stitch detailing around the border. With extra deep 10 cm hems and mitred corners, these fine Linen table cloths have contemporary, elegant styling. Prices range from £160 for 180 x 180cm, to £240 for 170 x 300 cm.

The table runners, have a 4cm hem, again with the Ochre stitching detail around the edge. Available in two different lengths, they add a touch of chic to any table. The 150 cm is £45, and the 240 cm is £60.

The elegant Linen placemats, are sold in sets of two, and neatly finished with mitred corners and the exquisite stitch detailing. A set of two retails at £40.

The napkins add the perfect finishing touch to the range, sold in sets of two, with the Ochre coloured stitching detail on the fine Organic Linen. A set of two retails at £40.

The Warwickshire based company launched their website last September. Ochre & Ocre only work with small manufacturers, where they know the product has been made by people who work in a safe and healthy environment, and are paid a fair wage. Because it is made in Europe, strict regulations ensure no child labour is involved.

The range has been put together by Tess Heslop, a former Retail Buyer. Tess Heslop, director of Ochre & Ocre said,”We are really excited to be expanding our offer, we have already had a great reaction to our Organic Cotton kitchen and dining textiles. This luxurious linen range adds a top tier to our offer”.
For all enquiries contact http://www.ochreandocre.com/

TIME FOR PICNICS FROM FORTNUM & MASON
Charles Dickens wrote of one Epsom Derby;
“Look where I will…I see Fortnum & Mason. All the hampers fly wide open and the green downs burst into a blossom of lobster salad!”
As the weather starts to warm up and the outdoor events begin, picnic blankets are thrown open and turned into mini Michelin star restaurants. Whether you are planning to enjoy the delights of the many Summer concerts, or simply spend a lazy Sunday afternoon or Thursday evening in the park, let Fortnum & Mason do the hard work for you. For starters, here are four temptations from the fresh food hall:

Outdoor Feast Picnic Serves 2 £85
All that’s fabulous about the Fortnum’s food hall packed in a cool bag!

Kick off with mixed fresh olives and Carnevale Nuts, follow with hand-carved Wiltshire ham, pork rillettes with crusty bread, poached salmon portions and a large chunk of chicken mozzarella and tomato pie, with healthy crudités of celery, carrot and cherry tomato. Then round off with fresh strawberries and mint, and a cup cake each. Share a bottle of Viognier and 2 small bottles of Blenheim still water. All packed with disposable plastic cutlery and glasses with biodegradable plates.

Three Course Picnic in a Cool Bag Serves 2 £100
More formal three course meal of starter, main course and dessert.

Comprising of chilled Chardonnay to complement the smoked salmon parcels filled with crab and lemon mayonnaise filling, ballotine of barn reared chicken wrapped in air dried ham and cepes and served with 2 salads – jersey potato with walnuts and blue cheese, cucumber and baby spinach tossed with sunflower seeds. To finish there are individual poached pear tarts with a spiced red wine glaze, served with vanilla mascarpone. The cutlery pack contains all the knives, forks and spoons you’ll need, along with plates, disposable glasses and 2 small bottles of Blenheim still water.

Fortnum’s Wicker Picnic Serves 2 £200
Top of the range – this is a picnic to dress up for!

Pop open the cork on the Fortnum’s Sparkling English wine bottle and serve with Fortnum’s English Cassis for the perfect summers’ day Kir Royale. Splendidly matched with a starter of beef carpaccio from the Chefs-d’Oeuvre range. Next course is half a dressed Scottish lobster with English garden salad of peas, broad beans and asparagus with bagatini bread rolls, luxurious and elegant with a full bottle of Chablis Premier Cru. Arrange the wedge of Cropwell Bishop Organic Stilton on the cheeseboard in the cutlery pack and eat with Mr Lunn’s Savoury Biscuits for cheese; or serve the red fruit meringues next, you can always finish on a sweet note with Fortnum’s Champagne Chocolate Truffles. Plus 2 small bottles of Blenheim still water. Packed in a large wicker basket, containing all the glasses, plates and cutlery you’ll need.

Portable Champagne Reception Serves 6 to 10 £225
The overture to the concert or main event – a glass of bubbly and an impeccable canapé or two to tide you over.

A magnum of Fortnum’s Champagne (10 to 12 glasses) served with 60 assorted canapés, champagne flutes, napkins and presented in an oval wicker basket. Perfect for meeting and greeting friends before or after the performance.
These items are only available for collection from the store, and we will require 24 hours notice. To order, or for enquiries please contact our Order Department on 0845 300 1707.

STOP PRESS: TONIGHT: FROG, CROCODILE AND OSTRICH - ALL IN A NIGHTS DINING? TEMPT YOURSELF TO 10 DISHES TO EAT IN A LIFETIME!

Desperate for a culinary experience you won’t forget? Look no further! Tempt yourself to an exclusive evening at Linen restaurant in Manchester 235.

On June 5th at 8pm, casino based restaurant, Linen will be hosting an event, aptly named: ‘10 Dishes To Eat In A Lifetime’.

For one night only, foodies are invited to push the boundaries and sample some of the most delicious and exciting ingredients they will ever taste!

For just £45, diners can look forward to a divine ten-course menu, set in the confines of the sumptuous and stylish award winning Linen restaurant.

Our passionate chefs have taken inspiration from across the globe and the menu is sure to impress.

We won’t ruin the surprise but with delicacies like Tempura frogs legs, Ostrich and even Crocodile making an appearance on your plates, the evening won’t disappoint. (have a look at the attached menu for exact dishes!)

Visit www.manchester235.com for more information or bookings! Spaces are limited and this evening is not one to miss. Book now to avoid disappointment – a 50% deposit is required.


LET YOURSELF SHINE WITH MICHAEL KORS
Sparkle on the beach or achieve that envied sun kissed glow at the cocktail bar, either way this is the perfect creation to complement gorgeous summer skin.
Sparkle with the glistening Shimmer shade…glow with the beautiful Bronze, or layer and mix to create your perfect look - Michael Kors Leg Shines are the luxurious way to radiate and glow.

Michael Kors Leg Shines are the effortless and fun way to instantly give legs a toned, catwalk look. Not just for legs, Michael Kors Leg Shine can be used on the shoulders, the back or the décolleté for a sexy sheen. Infused with the elegant Michael Kors scent, the Leg Shines delicately fragrance the skin. Achieve an all over bronzed glow come rain or shine!

Michael Kors Leg Shine in Classic, Shimmer or Bronze available nationwide.
Michael Kors Leg Shine, 75g - RRP £21.53 / €32.00
STOCKISTS: 0870 034 2566

JAMES JEANS
James Jeans have developed the ultimate jean legging so much so its flying off the rails at its two exclusive stockists Selfridges, London and Barneys, New York! In a 9 oz lightweight, ultra stretch denim, the five pocket Twiggy is the season’s essential shape. Sculpting and moulding around the body, this is one sexy skinny jean that will flatter your figure. A new delivery hits stores next week, priced at £135 get yours now before they sell out!

BIRDSONG FANS SWITCH ON TO PURE
Birdsong available on selected PURE radios

Birdsong fans mourning the loss of the temporary national DAB ‘Birdsong Channel’ can continue to enjoy birdsong on selected PURE radios.

Natural sounds including birdsong are available on PURE’s TEMPUS-1S (SRP: £99.99), EVOKE Flow (SRP: £149.99) and AVANTI Flow (SRP: £279.9). The TEMPUS-1S bedside DAB/FM radio enables listeners to drift off to sleep to or wake up to birdsong while users of EVOKE-Flow or AVANTI Flow DAB/internet radios can choose to relax to six types of birdsong ranging from ‘active daytime birds’ to ‘cooing doves’ and ‘forest birds’. These sounds and many others are also available on the PURE’s radio and media portal, the PURE Lounge (www.thelounge.com).

The audio for the popular ‘Birdsong Channel’ was originally recorded for the test transmission of Classic FM prior to its launch in 1992. It was then broadcast on the Digital One national DAB multiplex as a temporary station, but was taken off air in June 2005. Due to popular demand, it was reinstated in April 2008 as the ‘Birdsong Channel’ but has now been taken off to make way for new DAB station, ‘Amazing Radio’, which promotes unsigned artists.
For more information, please log onto www.pure.com or call 0845 1489001.

PLANET HOLLYWOOD LAUNCHES NEW RESTAURANT ON HAYMARKET
The world-famous Planet Hollywood is opening a new £5 million restaurant and bar on the Haymarket, London SW1 with a star-studded launch party in June 2009.

The new restaurant and bar will have a modern contemporary design, masterminded by Jonathan Manser of The Manser Practise whose past work includes Sketch, the newly revamped Waldorf Hotel and the W Hotel Group.

The open-plan space makes use of light from the vast ground floor windows, and features exposed brickwork and natural timber, accentuated by furnishings in rich jewel colours. In the new restaurant, movie memorabilia, screens and props will only be on display throughout select areas and will feature up-to-the-minute films, which will constantly be updated with new movie releases - keeping it fresh and interesting for restaurant guests.

The Planet Hollywood Bar will be the perfect venue for post-work or late night drinks, with a range of delicious drinks created by the legendary barman, Salvatore Calabrese. A selection of beer, wines and champagne will also be on offer. The main cocktail bar will be located on the ground floor, with an additional mezzanine bar to allow drinkers a great view across the venue.

A ‘Best of British’ room will feature a permanent display of the most celebrated British films, both classic movies and new releases. A huge Union Jack bespoke carpet has been designed for this room, to celebrate the London location.

A private room is also available for hire, which can be accessed via a separate entrance for visiting VIPs and celebrities, as well as further event spaces within the venue for dining or cocktail / canapé parties.

The updated décor and branding will be in keeping with the modern design of Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, which opened in November 2007. The venue will use the new ‘PH’ logo throughout, which has been successfully received at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas and reflects the brand’s decision to modernise and refresh their offering.

An extensive new menu will be served, featuring a selection of classic dishes that were launched at the original venue’s conception in 1993, as well as some Planet Hollywood favourites, such as the hugely popular Planet Burger.

New dishes, originally created at the Planet Dailies restaurant in the Vegas resort, will also be introduced. A ‘Wok Station’ will cater for those who love Asian dishes and the restaurant will also offer a range of delicious Pizzas for guests.

Robert Earl, CEO and Founder of Planet Hollywood International said:

"I am delighted that Planet has a fabulous new home in London's West End. The new restaurant has an incredible ground floor position and gives us the perfect opportunity to unveil the new PH brand later this year”.

The Haymarket will become the flagship restaurant of the group and I plan to emulate the success we have achieved with our casino in Las Vegas in London.

Expect a glamorous, celebrity-filled opening night party as we put Planet Hollywood back on the London map!"

Address:
Planet Hollywood
57 Haymarket
London
SW1Y 4QX
020 7437 7639
www.planethollywoodlondon.com

CORNWALL IS THE TOP DESTINATION FOR BRITS THIS SUMMER

One in three Brits will be holidaying in the UK this summer, spending an average of £567 and looking to get away from it all with a seven day break. These are amongst the key findings of a new holiday index published today; which also discovered that Cornwall is the number one UK holidaymakers’ destination of choice this summer.

The definitive holiday report commissioned by Travelodge surveyed 3,300 Britons to investigate their holiday plans for summer 2009. Key findings revealed:

• The number of Brits going abroad has fallen from 33% in 2008 to 27% in 2009. 32% are planning on taking a ‘staycation’ and holidaying domestically.

• Of those holidaying at home, 40% will be taking a seaside holiday (same as last year); 24% will be staying in the countryside (up 4%) whilst 18% will be taking a theme park inspired break (+8%)

• The amount people expect to be spending on their holiday in 2009 is down on last year - Showing the recession is impacting on disposable income, this year people expect to spend £567 rather than average spend in 2008 of £631.

• Holidaymakers expect their biggest expense to be accommodation, with the average spend predicted to be £159. Other expected outlays are £105 on attractions, £104 on eating out and £94 spent on travel.

Paul Harvey, Managing Director at Travelodge, said: “The summer of 2009 is set to be a big year for the British tourism industry. With the Met Office predicting glorious weather and a majority of holidaymakers looking to stay at home, this year the resorts and destinations of the UK will be jam packed with British tourists.

“It is also clear that people are looking to have an affordable break, cutting back on how much they are looking to spend when compared to the summer of 2008. Any tourism operators or resorts that are looking to raise prices to cash in on people holidaying domestically are likely to find that visitors choose to stay away.

Listed below are the ten UK holiday locations Britons will be visiting this summer

1. Cornwall
2. Lake District
3. Yorkshire Dales
4. Scottish Highlands & Islands
5. Edinburgh
6. London
7. Isle of Wight
8. Devon
9. Norfolk Broads
10. South Wales

To mark the comeback of the great British holiday, Travelodge has launched a 99p cream tea offer at its top holiday spots throughout the UK. The tasty treat will include an extra large scone, a pot of Cornish clotted cream, a choice of strawberry or raspberry jam and a collection of teas.

The Travelodge 2009 summer holiday research was conducted with 3,300 Britons in May 2009 by Onepoll
The Travelodge 2009 summer holiday report was created by Kurt Jansen of Kurt Jansen Ltd.

AB FAB NEWS FOR SHELTERBOX
International disaster relief charity ShelterBox is pleased to announce that the actress Joanna Lumley has agreed to become one of its Patrons.

Miss Lumley OBE - the star of such hit televisions series as the New Avengers and Absolutely Fabulous - said that ShelterBox was a charity “she really loves and admires”.

Tom Henderson, ShelterBox Founder and CEO, says: “I am so pleased that Joanna has agreed to become one of our Patrons and support our work. These are momentous times for ShelterBox. Since 2001 we have provided emergency shelter in the aftermath of 80 disasters in more than 50 countries. We have now set ourselves the goal of helping 500,000 people a year by 2013. I know that her support will help us reach our goal.”

ShelterBox is an international disaster relief charity, and a global Rotary club project, which exists to provide humanitarian aid worldwide in the form of shelter, warmth and dignity for people displaced by natural and other disasters.

Each ShelterBox contains a 10-person tent, blankets, water purification and cooking equipment, basic tools, a stove and other essential equipment. Every box is individually numbered and can be tracked by donors. Each box costs (UK: £490) – including the cost of all materials, packing, storage, transport worldwide and distribution to the needy. Best value is achieved by working closely with leading suppliers, all items being obtained at below trade price. Assuming six month’s use, this equates to shelter and warmth for less than 30 pence per person per day.

An initiative of Rotarian Tom Henderson, a former Royal Navy search and rescue diver, ShelterBox started in 2000 as a project of the Rotary Club of Helston-Lizard, Cornwall. ShelterBox, now the largest Rotary Club project in the world, has raised over £25 million and responded to over 80 major disasters including the Indian Ocean Tsunami, Hurricane Katrina and Cyclone Nargis in Myanmar (Burma) and has operated in 57 countries.

All aid delivery is undertaken by international volunteer ShelterBox Response Team members who have carried out extensive training with ShelterBox. By working with local Rotary clubs in the countries where disasters have occurred, ShelterBox is often able to get aid where it is needed faster than any other organisation.

FAMILY RECIPE COMPETITION SERVES UP NATIONAL FAME FOR ONE LUCKY ENTRANT
Recipe by Victoria Lester from Bradford selected to appear on the Pizza Hut menu nationwide
Leading family restaurant Pizza Hut has been keeping a watchful eye on the entries of the Favourite Family Recipe competition organised as part of the first ever National Family Week, and announces that it will feature Bradford based, Victoria Lester’s ‘Yummy Yummy in Your Tummy’ pasta dish on its menu in restaurants nationwide!

The competition, which searched to find the all-time favourite family recipe, has served up not just one but two winners. Lisa Morely from Berry in Lancashire was selected as the overall winner by celebrity chef and father of four, Antony Worrall Thompson and has won a sizzling prize package worth over £1000 from National Family Week’s sponsors. Victoria Lester’s recipe has been recognised as a fantastic family dish by Pizza Hut and is set to appear on their menu from October this year, plus Victoria will receive a year’s worth of family dining at Pizza Hut.

Victoria’s fun pasta dish has been in her family long before she can remember - her mum and auntie used to help her Nan prepare it when they were young. Victoria took over helping her Nan when she was just two and now serves it to her two boys who are 12 and 7 years old. From October, Pizza Hut diners will be able to share the experience and taste a little bit of Victoria’s family history.

Claudia Nicholls-Magielsen, marketing director, Pizza Hut Restaurants commented: “The winning dish is a perfect example of what Pizza Hut is all about – getting together with family and friends and enjoying a great meal. We’re all delighted for Victoria, and I’m sure that ‘Yummy Yummy in Your Tummy’ will make a great addition to our menu.”

Lisa Morley’s Sunday Soul Food won the overall vote as judged by Antony Worrall Thompson who proved to be a fan of the homely Sunday dish which involves the whole family chopping and throwing the ingredients into a roasting tray. The winning recipe is also a great way to get kids eating their vegetables as they can be hidden in the colourful sauce!

Antony Worrall Thompson comments; “Sitting down to eat a meal is a great way for a family to spend quality time together and cooking can be a really fun family activity. Lisa’s recipe stood out for me as all the family can join in and help out and it’s invaluable to get the kids involved with the cooking from a young age, plus it’s a fun colourful dish that will appeal to kids while still giving them the nutrition they need.”

Yummy Yummy in Your Tummy

Pizza Hut are working with Victoria to ensure her favourite family pasta dish can be made in a professional environment. Pizza Hut’s Chefs will stay close to Victoria’s recipe and ensure only the freshest and best ingredients are used for this fantastic oven baked dish.

For further details on National Family Week, log on to www.nationalfamilyweek.co.uk and don’t forget to sign up to the newsletter to keep in the loop on next year’s plans.

NEW GODIVA WHITE PASSION FRUIT CHOCOLIXIR
Need a refreshing, delicious, to die for chocolate fix? … Look no further than the latest Godiva White Passion Fruit Chocolixir!

Come this summer all London chocolate fanatics will be able to indulge in the latest creation from Godiva Chocolatier.

The new cool refreshing drink is carefully fashioned with the same commitment and dedication to the quality and taste that goes into the chocolate, White Passion Fruit Chocolixir (£3.40) is made with rich Passion Fruit syrup, delicious white chocolate and indulgent whipped cream.

So pop down to your nearest Godiva store in Covent Garden, Regent Street, Harrods, Kings Road, Selfridges or Fenchurch Street from the 25th May 2009.

This is not just an ordinary blended ice drink …this is Godiva’s White Passion Fruit Chocolixir

For Godiva stockists please call 0207 734 8113 or visit www.godiva.be

CAROL JOY LONDON LAUNCHES THE ULTIMATE ALL-ENCOMPASSING HAIR AND BEAUTY CARE EXPERIENCE
Carol Joy London has launched with a range of exclusive hair and beauty products second to none. Situated in the heart of Chelsea, Carol Joy London is the only salon of its kind to offer a truly all-encompassing hair and beauty care experience. Carol Joy London provides an extensive range of luxury skin, hair and nail products, specialised treatments and deluxe hair care service. To complete the total hair and beauty experience Carol Joy London is delighted to welcome Daniel Galvin Jnr, bringing with him 23 years of world class experience in the industry.

The Carol Joy London luxury treatment library boasts some of the world’s most precious beauty ingredients, including authentic Diamond Dust and Golden Millet Oil. Over ten years of research has enabled scientists to naturally extract this pure Golden Millet Oil, clinically proven to improve the condition of the skin, hair and nails. It is the highly concentrated form of this precious oil that Carol Joy insists is present in every one of her products, aptly named references. Working in synergy from within, it is this magic oil that forms the Carol Joy Golden Seed food supplements.

Also found in Carol Joy London beauty products and treatments, Diamond Dust remineralises the skin encouraging stunning luminosity, enhancing radiance and improving peripheral microcirculation. All references are completely pure in essence, paraben free, infused with allergen free fragrances. The range has been developed in Switzerland, the epicentre of beauty technology.

From ingredients to aesthetics, all aspects of the Carol Joy London library embody a proud, yet understated English elegance. It is a treasure trove of precious beauty secrets hand-picked from all over the world by a British woman whose curiosity has no boundaries.

Founder of Carol Joy London, Carol Hatton, explains: “I began with a dream to create something unique and timeless. Our library of references combines quality ingredients with the best of global knowledge so as to meet the needs of the woman who demands the best.”

Carol Joy London salons can be found in Europe’s most luxury locations - in the Fairmont Hotel in Monte Carlo, an exclusive private spa overlooking the sea in Fontvieille and in Switzerland. Carol Joy London treatments and products will also be part of the offering at the new Dorchester Spa, opening in May.

The new Carol Joy London salon can be found at 163-165 Draycott Avenue, London.

CAPTURE YOUR OWN STAR QUALITY WITH THE FLIP MINOHD CHROME
The limited edition that’s been a USA sensation lands in the UK.

The limited edition Flip MinoHD Chrome, the most stylish Flip Video camcorder to date, is available to buy in the UK as of Monday 1 June.

Boasting a super-shiny reflective finish complemented by a striking gun-metal trim, the coveted Flip MinoHD Chrome lets you to capture anything and everything in crystal clear high definition (HD) footage. Check out your appearance with the mirrored surface before easily recording and uploading personal messages to MySpace and Facebook, creating your own video blogs and even capturing you and your friends on a night out.

Of course, it comes with all the features of the Flip MinoHD, the world’s smallest HD camcorder. FlipShare™, the on-board state-of-the-art software, comes as standard and loads automatically when you plug the camera into the computer. Fully compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems – the software makes it simple to customise and share content, with easy drag-and-drop video editing and one-click uploading to YouTube, MySpace or email distribution.

Weighing just over three ounces, the smart, compact design is bang on trend and fits neatly in your pocket. It features a flat back panel with touch-sensitive backlit buttons, producingstunning picture clarity even in low light with vibrant HD 720p video.

Ray Sangster, EMEA President at Flip Video said:
“With MinoHD Chrome, you’ll find a design and finish that is as sharp as the HD video it produces. MinoHD Chrome now allows you to capture everyday moments in style.

“Still simple and fun to use, it’s now one of the hottest gadgets to be seen with and has caused a style sensation in the States. We’ve even had reports of A-list female stars using them as mirrors to adjust their look as they step out onto the red carpet!”

As with other Flip Video camcorders, Flip MinoHD Chrome features one-touch recording and digital zoom, with its signature flip-out USB stick, allowing immediate upload onto any computer. The onboard software FlipShare makes it easy to edit and share what you shoot with friends and social networks.

With the Flip MinoHD Chrome there is no need for expensive add-ons. It comes with everything included, such as an inbuilt memory to record up to 60 minutes of HD-quality video.

The Flip MinoHD Chrome follows the UK launch of the Flip MinoHD in April 2009, and the Flip Mino and Flip Ultra in 2008.

Flip Video MinoHD Chrome Price: £169.99.

Retailers: Amazon, Play.com, Dixons, Currys.digital, PC World and other major retailers.
Website: www.flipvideo.co.uk

CHEATING IN IS THE NEW EATING OUT!
With UK cooks demanding more from their food and wine, Australia has stepped up to the challenge by using the launch of a new initiative called G’dayUK to raise the profile of Australia.

Planned for June 2009, G’dayUK will be a vibrant celebration of all things Australian, including some of the gourmet food and beverage offering for the ‘time-poor’.

Around 2.6m British single girls admitted to passing off an entire meal prepared by friends and family as their own in order to impress a potential partner while on a date at home." 1 (1 Source: survey published in June 2008 by Apetina cheese.)

 

In a bid to make cooking and entertaining easier for these time-poor cooks, Australian producers are creating products to make it even simpler to cook up tantalising menus at home whilst saving both money and time. So, for some speedy inspiration when planning that next dinner party, look out for the following quick, easy treats from Australia that are widely available in the UK:

The G’dayUK Quick & Easy Menu

Welcome guests with a touch of summer by adding a Wild Hibiscus flower to a glass of sparkling Australian wine. Place one in a glass and let the bubbles stream off, subtly unfurling the flower and at the end of the drink, eat the flower that has delicious raspberry & rhubarb flavours (Whole Foods, Selfridges & Co, and Lakeland as well as independent gourmet food stores RRP £6.99, www.wildhibiscus.com)

While guests wait for dinner, roughly chop some warm bread and serve with a selection of Australian Extra Virgin Olive Oils. With a wide selection of styles available, from mild and fruity to robust and peppery, there is an oil to suit every taste. Nolans Road organic ‘Robust’ or ‘Delicate’ varieties (Harvey Nichols, RRP £13.50 www.nolansroad.com).

For the more adventurous, why not try infused oil such as the Dash Wild Blood Lime or Tangerine Extra Virgin Olive Oils and also their fragrant Dukkah products, made from aromatic herbs with premium nuts and spices giving a fresh Australian flavour to a traditional dukkah. (All available on-line through Olly Oils – Wild Blood Lime oil RRP £11.25; dukkah available in three flavourways RRP £4/100g , www.ollyoils.com and also available at Esley & Bent, Borough Market, London) (www.dasholives.com.au)

Australia is also famous for its Macadamia nuts and with the health benefits of nuts well documented, there’s never been a better time to try these high quality nibbles (widely available at all UK supermarkets, www.macadamias.org.uk

For those wanting to watch what they eat, Waitrose stocks a range of original Bhuja snack mixes which are gluten free – look out for this new product on shelf in a store near you. (Widely available including Sainsburys and Waitrose RRP £1.99, www.majans.com.au).

Australia is renown for its fusion cuisines, so once your guests have relaxed, impress them with a taste of Thailand: an authentic tasting simmer sauce from Passage Foods. These handy sauces serve 2-3 and are made with all natural gluten free ingredients making them not only amazingly easy to prepare but also exceedingly Moorish. (Widely available including Tesco and Morrisons RRP £1.49, www.passagefoods.com).

A refreshing lager is always good with spicy foods, so offer guests a Coopers Pale Ale with its fruity, floral characteristics (Majestic, Booths and Tesco RRP£1.39-1.69, www.coopers.com.au)

If there is still space for dessert, try a pudding made from the prize-winning recipes of Pudding Lane. Serve Macadamia Nut & Brandy pudding hot with fresh cream or, for an Aussie twist this summer, thinly slice the pudding cold and serve with a cheeseboard and sweet, crunchy Pink Lady apples for a more unusual dessert. (Available through Porter Foods www.porterfoods.co.uk, Real Food Direct www.realfooddirect.co.uk, RRP£10.55, www.puddinglane.uk.com)

TRUE TASTE AWARD-WINNING TEIFI FARMHOUSE CHEESE GETS THE ROYAL SEAL OF APPROVAL

On 20 May 2009, existing True Taste award-winner Teifi Farmhouse Cheese won the prestigious James Aldridge Memorial Trophy for their Caws Teifi Saval for ‘Best Raw Milk Cheese’ at The Specialist Cheesemakers Association’s annual gathering.

The trophy was founded in 2002 by H.R.H. The Prince of Wales, the patron of the SCA, in honour of James Aldridge, who died in 2001. He was the leading figure in the revival of raw milk British cheesemaking and was at the forefront of its renaissance, dispensing advice and encouragement to small artisan cheesemakers all across the country.

To be considered for the James Aldridge Memorial Trophy, cheesemakers cannot enter or apply by themselves. They have to be nominated by other members of the SCA and cheeses must be made in the British Isles and made from raw milk only. The fact that the award went to Teifi Farmhouse’s Saval cheese* makes it all the more sweet as it is an acronym for SAVage (surname of the company’s founder) + ALdridge. The name was chosen by James Aldridge himself when the cheese was developed in collaboration with Teifi Farmhouse Cheese in 1999 just two years before he died. John Savage-Onstwedder, founder of Teifi Farmhouse Cheese comments, “I’m sure James would have been just as proud as we all are at Teifi with this award. It shows that some of the best cheese in the British Isles are made right here in Wales”.

Teifi Farmhouse Cheese was established in 1982 by John and Patrice Savage-Onstwedder and Paula van Werkhoven. They moved from Holland to Wales in 1981 and set up the cheese-making operation at their farm in Mid Wales. They are true artisan cheesemakers, dedicated to the production of cheeses with unpasteurised milk. They are committed to retaining traditional cheese making principals, many of which are taken from their Dutch heritage. Over the past two decades, Teifi Farmhouse Cheese has developed a wonderful range of cheeses with a reputation that has spread worldwide.

SET THE TREND THIS SUMMER WITH HARVEYS® & LEMONADE

Want to be one step ahead of the trends this summer? Whether you are socialising around the BBQ, picnicking in the park, or sipping cocktails in the garden, do it in style with an iced jug of Harveys® & Lemonade. Give a refreshing and tasty twist to Harveys® Bristol Cream® by simply adding lemonade and fruits to enjoy whenever and wherever. Fast becoming the drink of the summer season, Harveys & Lemonade is the ideal long drink to toast any sun-filled alfresco occasion with friends.

The fashion world are already embracing it: at London Fashion Week in February, fashionistas such as Alexa Chung, Gemma Cairney and Claudia Raba were seen sipping Harveys & Lemonade along with other avant-garde Harveys sherry cocktails. Harveys is firmly back en vogue and leading the retro drinks’ revival, having teamed up once more with leading fashion house, PPQ, for the forthcoming September 2009 fashion season.

How to make Harveys & Lemonade:
Easy to make at home and perfect for summer parties; pour one part Harveys Bristol Cream, and two parts lemonade into a large glass jug. Top up with luscious summer fruits such as strawberries, raspberries, oranges and limes, and plenty of ice. Stir generously to ensure these fantastic flavours are well mixed!

Harveys Bristol Cream is made exclusively from grapes grown at Harveys’ own vineyards and blended in the traditional method at its bodegas in Jerez in southern Spain. Steeped in heritage, Harveys Bristol Cream sherry is made from a complex and aged blend of Fino, Amontillado, Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez wines. It has a deep golden colour with fragrant aromas and tastes sensationally silky, smooth and rich.

Harveys Bristol Cream (75cl RRP £8.15) is widely available nationwide

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