Join the baking revolution with the Red Letter Days national baking competition for your chance to be crowned Britain's best amateur baker. Launched to celebrate its 21st birthday, the company, owned by Dragons Den Star Peter Jones and Theo Paphitis, is inviting the public to bake it a birthday cake for the chance to win prizes, including an all expenses paid trip for two to Sri Lanka from Advantage Luxury Specialist, a cake making master class with celebrity Master Patissier (he created Madonna's wedding cake!) and star of TV's Glamour Puds - Eric Lanlard, and£1,000 worth of Red Letter Days vouchers.

Cup cakes, fairy cakes, celebration cakes, any type of cake - there is no restriction on size, shape, colour or recipe, and entries can be submitted as photos or videos to http://social.redletterdays.co.uk/ , the brand's new online community. Open to ages 12 and up, the competition will culminate in a birthday cake-off in London between 8 finalists on July 5th (the brand birthday), to be judged by Eric Lanlard so there's no better time to get caking.

If you fancy your chances as Britain's best baker here are Eric's top 10 tips for creating a masterpiece:

1. Study the recipe and list of ingredients and tools needed in advance and make sure you have them all to hand.

2. Clear the diary and send the kids/husband/wife away so you can concentrate and are not disturbed.

3. Use only the best quality ingredients for the filling. Remember the cake must taste as good as it looks.

4. Start with a very clean surface - when icing any dirt will show up on white icing so everything must be spotless.

5. Layout all your tools and equipment like a surgeon on a small tray next to you.

6. Follow the recipe step by step - do not try and improvise - baking is a science.

7. Always allow royal icing or painted details to dry thoroughly before adding the finishing touches such as pearl lustre or gold/silver decorating paint.

8. When doing an elaborate icing design that will take more than a few days to complete - use a fruit cake because a sponge cake will go stale after a day.

9. When making a wedding cake or a tiered cake for a special occasion, mix up the tiers to give the guests options. Think about using chocolate, lemon or even a carrot cake instead of using fruit cake for every tier; it's much more interesting that way.

10. Don't give up if it doesn't work out the first time - keep trying - practice and experience is the secret to success. Of course it always helps if you are naturally artistic!

Celebrating 21 years in business with a range of over 1000 experiences, Red Letter Days has also just launched an exclusive new experience with Cake Boy, the gorgeous cake emporium and cookery school owned by Eric, who has baked cakes for Madonna, Claudia Schiffer, Liz Hurley and Elton John. The Cupcake Decorating master class with Eric is the perfect treat for all cake lovers and is available now at £49 per person.

Let the cake-off games begin!
GRADUATE FASHION WEEK 2010
With 19 years spent at the forefront of promoting creativity, Graduate Fashion Week has solidified its position as the industry's looking glass and the greatest showcase of young up and coming fashion talent in the world. This year Earls Court 2 will see more students, more talent and more inspirational ideas than ever before from 6-10 June. Each year it celebrates the work of more than 1,000 of the finest BA Degree fashion students from 61 memberuniversities across the UK and overseas, for the biggest showcase of young talent in the world.

Attracting some of the industry's biggest players and most influential international commentators, Graduate Fashion Week is now a firm fixture in the diaries of those in the know. The event always attracts attendance from fashion industry faces such as Giles Deacon, Matthew Williamson, Claudia Schiffer, Erin O'Connor, Dasha Zhukova, Zandra Rhodes, Amber le Bon, Leah Weller, Rosie Huntington Whitely, Emma Hill (Mulberry), Clare Waight Keller (Pringle), Mary McCartney and Harold Tillman (Chairman, British Fashion Council), who all attended the 2009 event. There is also great attendance from the national and international fashion press, who are finding increasingly the event's catwalks are the best source of inspiration and showcase of street style trends. Graduate Fashion Week is uniquely also open to the fashion loving public who want to spot fashion's next big thing.

The culmination of Graduate Fashion Week is the presentation of The River Island Gold Award which has become without doubt the most prestigious and sought after Award in fashion education. Awarded to Myrto Stamou of UCA Rochester in 2009, one lucky student will receive a life-changing £20,000. Last year's award was judged and presented by Lorraine Candy, Editor in Chief of British Elle, Matthew Williamson, Giles Deacon and Richard Bradbury CBE, CEO of title sponsor River Island.

Graduate Fashion Week, 6-10 June at Earls Court 2.
For tickets visit http://www.gfw.org.uk/

MARY PORTAS LAUNCHES NEW PEOPLE-POWERED WEBSITE
After many years spearheading change on the British high street, retail guru Mary Portas has announced the launch of a new people-powered website, maryportas.com.

The new site, Mary's first permanent home on the web, is a resource for both shoppers and shopkeepers keen to improve and comment on shopping and the retail experience.

Through the sites lead feature Search for a Shop users can upload, rate and review shops from around the world creating a comprehensive database of opinions on our high streets.

This searchable directory lets users read real reviews from like-minded shoppers, and allows disgruntled customers, or customers blown away by excellent service to make their voice heard.

Mary's putting power into the hands of the people and letting them have their say. Think of it as a Trip Advisor for shoppers around the world.

Always on the side of independent retailers, Mary hopes the site will be a valuable tool for promoting boutiques up and down the country supporting the diversity of our high streets.

The site is also a space for fans to follow Mary's latest projects, television campaigns, journalism, and news on Mary's Living and Giving shops for Save the Children.

Make sure to watch out for Mary's latest series which starts next week Mary Queen of Shops, BBC2 9.00pm, Monday 7th June.

VINTAGE AT GOODWOOD

Vintage at Goodwood Festival is taking place 13, 14, 15 August at the Goodwood Estate in West Sussex. Vintage at Goodwood is a unique music and cultural festival celebrating 5 decades of British Culture (1940s, 1980s) inclusive of music, fashion, film, art and design. For more details and booking please visit http://www.vintageatgoodwood.com

Co-Founded by Wayne and Gerardine Hemingway (of Red or Dead) and Lord March, Vintage at Goodwood will be the first to proactively combine music, fashion, art and design and celebrate British cool from the 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s and 80 the celebration of our lives. As with so many festivals on the current circuit, fashion and music have been divorced in recent years; Vintage at Goodwood aims to bring these fundamental ideals back together.

Wayne Hemingway said:Vintage at Goodwood will bring something fresh and unique to a summer festival circuit that in many ways has become stale, homogenised and one dimensional. In the last two decades of attending a myriad of festivals, I've been consistently underwhelmed by the lack of glamour, by the locations, by the scattergun approach to booking and scheduling and overall by the lack of attention to detail which has sadly not only become the standard but accepted as such. We have carefully curated a celebratory festival in complete contrast to this staid status quo, that re-unites music, fashion and culture; that is unashamedly about dressing up rather than down and being comfortable rather than compromised. There has been nothing to date like Vintage.

MUSIC:
On Friday 13th August, the legendary 1970s English supergroup, Faces, will perform at the inaugural Vintage at Goodwood festival at the Goodwood Estate in West Sussex, England. The reformed Faces will feature original members Ronnie Wood, Kenney Jones and Ian McLagan, plus Glen Matlock (Sex Pistols), and vocals from Mick Hucknall (of Simply Red).

FASHION:
LILLY ALLEN will unleash new styles to the fashion world with Lucy in Disguise. Created alongside with her sister, Sarah Owen, Lily's debut vintage fashion venture will premiere at Vintage at Goodwood. Lily Allen said It's about making fashion democratic. Lucy in Disguise aims to be an antidote to the mass consumerism culture of high street shopping.

PARTNERS:
Partnerships include Oxfam, John Lewis, Waitrose, The Body Show, The Design Council, British Film Institute and British Music Experience, among many others.

GLAMPING THE NEW CAMPING EXPERIENCE.
The Goodwood Estate is blessed with hidden glades, hollows, copses and hillocks with views of the coast across the South Downs and after surveying the land with a fine toothcomb camping curators have found the perfect places to pitch your tent... For a start the estate is on chalk downland which drains a treat, so it would take storms of biblical proportions for the campsites to become seas of mud like so many other festival events.
The stunning camping field is right next door to the main event (and very close to the car park) so there will be no traipsing across the county in your favourite frock and shoes to get to and from the fun and games. There will be lots of clean, well managed and flushing loos, numerous showers and vanity areas so everyone can stay as glamorous as possible throughout the 3 days.

COME AND EXPERIENCE A FREE GLOW-GETTER FACIAL AT LIBERTY BEAUTY WEEK
Liberty is in celebratory mood. From Thursday 3rd until Saturday 12th June, they're holding one of their legendary Beauty Weeks. All the brands make a special effort to reward their customers, and OSKIA is getting into the mood by offering free mini Glow-Getter facials performed by one of our special therapists.
These 20 minute facials are a great introduction to the range and will leave your skin feeling cleansed, refined and illuminated.
Glow-Getter facials will be available between 12.30 and 7.30 pm on:
Friday 5 June
Saturday 6 June
Friday 11 June
Saturday 12 June
To book, pop into Liberty Regent Street, or call the Beauty Hall on 020 7734 1234. Ext. 2225.

MEET THE FOUNDERS
OSKIA's founders, Georgie Cleeve and George Gordon, will also be in-store between 1pm and 3pm on Wednesday 9th and Thursday 10th June, to discuss the products, the ingredients and the philosophy behind the brand. Please come in and say hello.

SELFRIDGES LONDON- HAVAIANAS MAKE YOUR OWN

It's time to put a spring in your step with the help of lifestyle brand Havaianas!

At Selfridges London, fans of the Brazilian brand will get the chance to fashion their flip flops in their own personal style. MYOH (Make Your Own Havaianas) is coming to town.

Clients can customize any pair with over 900 combinations of soles and straps at their disposal. Along with the killer colour combinations, MYOH 2010 welcomes all things embellished with MYOH providing over 25 various pins to adorn the straps with shapes ranging from the basics; hearts and stars to the quirkier designs‚ fruits, animals and flags.

If you want to add a little sparkle, Havaianas have also introduced seven colour ways of Swarovski crystal for bedazzling purposes.

Havaianas are causing a stir this SS10 with Make Your Own Havaianas. With more straps, soles and pins than ever, the possibilities are endless for personalizing your summer must haves.

MAKING SOMEONE'S DAY JUST GOT TASTIER AS NEW GREEN & BLACK'S MILK & WHITE MINIATURE COLLECTION

Some say it's the little things in life that make your day; a stranger holding a door open for you, being offered a seat on a packed train, a friend giving you a little gift for no reason other to say thanks a wolf whistle from across the street.

Little random acts of kindness are often the most welcome gestures. Making someone's day just got tastier as new Green & Black's Milk & White Miniature Collection, 12 deliciously mini milk and white organic chocolate bars, hit the shelves. Perfect for brightening up your day or spreading a little love among friends, the new collection brings together the most popular milk and white bars from the iconic 100g bar range.

Make someone's day with a little help from Green & Black's.

Available in stores now, RRP £5.99. For more information on the new Green & Black's Milk & White Miniatures collections, images or more samples please contact Lucie Phipps on 020 7759 7400 / This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

LUXE BRASILIAN BEACHWEAR
The long and short of it; FB Collection redefines summer style

21 May 2010. The glamorous beach style of Brasil is now available in the UK with the launch of a new range of luxury beach shorts, from exclusive beach brand FB Collection.

Stylish when dry and outrageously original when wet, the shorts reveal a limited edition print inspired by artist Burle Marxs famous Copacabana sidewalk.
From using the lightest and softest Italian fabrics, to a customised ivory resin cord end and tailored back pocket with embroidered logo, FB Collection has taken the quality of their trunks to an entirely new level.
Whether you're enjoying cocktails in the beach bar, strolling off the tennis court or jumping from your yacht into the azure blue seas - FB Collection shorts are universally stylish and sophisticated with a Brasilian tailored fit.
The combination of the high quality lightweight components has resulted in the shorts having a barely there feel, making sure that they are the optimum choice for the hot weather and active summer plans.
Sporting a range of fresh pastel shades, the shorts are currently offered in two enduring styles; the shorter Trancoso‚ or the longer Leblon‚ model.
Prices from £115.

About FB Collection
FB Collection was founded in Rio de Janeiro, in the spring of 2005, with the launch of the brands signature beach accessory FB Frescobol. FB Collection has brought Frescobol and now its luxurious shorts to beaches across the globe from Asia to Europe, the Caribbean and back to its origins in South America. The range is now stocked in some of the worlds finest stores including Selfridges, London, Rockshop at Eden Rock Hotel St Barts, Le Club 55, Saint-Tropez, Mood Beach, Mallorca and select One and Only hotels.

THE OLDE BELL SETS SAIL FOR SUCCESS THIS SUMMER
The Olde Bell coaching inn, located in the picturesque Berkshire hamlet of Hurley, has teamed up with Henley Sales & Charter, owners of a local classic boat collection, to offer an afternoon of vintage luxury followed by dinner and overnight stay at this delightful period property.

Spend a leisurely afternoon cruising down the Thames on a classic 1930s or 1950s river launch, all the while sipping refreshing summer punches and chilled champagne and feasting on The Olde Bell, delicious home cooked picnic fare.

Then its back to the inn for a drink in the wild meadow garden before sitting down to a superb three-course dinner.

Prices start at just £300 per person based on a party of 12.

For those who really want to push the boat out, a second package offers an entire day on the river, with an opportunity to sight see at leisure and to enjoy the luxury of a personal onboard chef who will prepare a mouth-watering two-course meal.

On returning to The Olde Bell in the evening, guests can partake of a light supper before retiring to bed in an Olde Bell suite. Simple, modern and comfortable, these rooms have recently been refurbished by style guru Ilse Crawford of Babington House fame. These retain the quintessentially English feel of the inn as a whole, with their chunky furniture, pure cotton sheets, oak floorboards and pale wattle-and-daubed walls. Bathrooms are fitted with ether drench showers or elegant claw-foot baths.

Prices start at £400 per person based on a party of six.
Reputed to be the oldest hostelry in England - parts of the building date back to 1135, The Olde Bell is only an hours drive from Central London. Representing a new breed of coaching inn, it provides eating, drinking and lodgings, with an emphasis on traditional English hospitality.

The Olde Bell, High Street, Hurley, Berks, SL6 5LX
http://www.theoldebell.co.uk/

HOLIDAY SNAPS WORKSHOPS - PHOTOGRAPHY ENTHUSIASTS CAN SHARPEN CAMERA SKILLS AT JOHN LEWIS OXFORD STREET -

John Lewis Oxford Street is launching free one-to-one Holiday Snaps Workshops, to help photography enthusiasts master the art of taking the perfect holiday snapshot.

Led by expert John Lewis Camera Consultants, the Holiday Snaps Workshops are for those with a passion for photography, but don't know their megapixels from their multi-zoom technology. The workshops will tutor budding photographers on how to take and display their snapshots.

Christian Dollimi, John Lewis Oxford Street Camera Consultant, says, The secret behind capturing an excellent holiday shot is knowing what your camera can do. Technology has advanced so much over the past few years that by using the various functions and effects to your advantage, will mean you create stunning holiday memories.

Held in the Audio Visual Department on the 5th Floor, the workshops will match photographers with a camera model to suit their individual needs. The Camera Consultants will then provide tutoring in the latest digital camera technology including recordable HD movies, microthumbnail feature, 3D AF tracking, vari-angle monitors, ISO sensitivity and face detection.

Dollimi continues, Workshop attendees will be encouraged to bring in examples of previous holiday photo faux-pas in a bid to correct bad photography habits. The practical tutorials will ensure customers leave knowing exactly how their camera works and confident that it will suit their holiday needs.

To book a Holiday Snaps Workshop please email John Lewis Oxford Street on This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

THE BLUES KITCHEN GOES BACK TO THE FIFTIES TO CELEBRATES
BLUES LEGEND HOWLIN WOLF
An unforgettable voice and presence in 1950s rhythm and blues, Howlin Wolf defined a musical era. On the eve of what would have been the blues kings 100th birthday, Camden bar and venue The Blues Kitchen will be hosting a 1950s themed tribute to Howlin Wolf on Thursday 10th June, celebrating the legend‚s musical genius.

With a career spanning over two decades, Howlin Wolf vocal talent made him a household name and with a multitude of what have become blues standards to his name including Smokestack Lightnin‚ Back Door Man‚ and Spoonful‚ his legend lives on still. His songs have been much coveted by rock and roll musicians The Doors, The Rolling Stones and Eric Clapton to name a few.

On 10th June, The Blues Kitchen House Band will be going back to the 1950s to toast the great man that was Howlin Wolf, playing a huge selection of popular songs he recorded. Award-winning* Blues singer Ian Siegal, one of the most popular blues musicians in the UK today, and The Pretty Things, 1960s pioneers of edgy rhythm and blues music, are just two of the acts making special guest appearances on the night, performing Howlin Wolfs much loved hits live on stage. Wolfs Juke Jam Jukebox will also be blasting out the best of Howlin Wolf before the bands and special guest performers come on stage.

In addition to the live music, a 1950s killing the dance dance off (a tribute to Howlins famous record Killing Floor) will ensure guests slip back in time and get into the 50s blues mood. To accompany Howlin Wolfs favourite tunes, the Howler cocktail will be served up to those brave enough to compete with the big man. A potent cocktail with multiple shots of bourbon, it will have you howlin all night long! The Blues Kitchens extensive menu of bourbons and bourbon-based cocktails will also be available.

The Blues Kitchen Howlin Wolf Tribute night takes place on Thursday 10th June from 7pm – 1am and is free entry all night. Dress code 1950s to celebrate the rhythm and blues decade that Howlin Wolf burst onto the musical scene

Already at the forefront of live rhythm and blues, The Blues Kitchen delivers the best in rhythm and blues, soul and motown music seven days a week. Visit http://www.theblueskitchen.com/ for more information on upcoming events at The Blues Kitchen.

*Mojo Blues Album of the Year Award 2009

The Blues Kitchen
111 – 113 Camden High Street,
London
NW1 7JN
Tel: 020 7387 5277/ This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Tubes: Camden Town/Morning Crescent

Opening Hours: Mon-Weds: 12pm-12am
Thurs: 12pm - 1am
Fri: 12pm - 3am
Sat: 10am - 3am
Sun: 10am - 12am

COVENT GARDEN AND MUSE A MUSE BRINGS THE MAGIC OF THE ROYAL BALLET TO RURAL FRANCE
This July, Covent Garden London will be supporting one of the most enchanting events of the year as the Muse A Muse Arts Association presents an evening of classical and contemporary dance in the French village of Lagrasse. The special, one-off performance against the backdrop of One of the Most Beautiful Villages in France will star guest dancers from the Royal Ballet in Londons Covent Garden.

From the internationally renowned Royal Opera House in Covent Garden - one of Londons most famous public spaces - to the medieval French town of Lagrasse, guest artists of the Royal Ballet including principal dancers Marianela Nu?àez and Thiago Soares will be making the trip to take part in a memorable, one off open-air performance in the grounds of the stunning Abbey of Lagrasse on July 17th.

The programme of classical and contemporary dance will include works by some of the world's leading choreographers past and present, including Wayne McGregor, George Balanchine, Frederick Ashton, Kenneth MacMillan, Alastair Marriott and Will Tuckett.

As part of the areas 180th Anniversary celebrations taking place throughout 2010, Covent Garden in conjunction with Muse A Muse will also be providing the chance for two lucky people to win tickets to experience the performance as well as an invitation to the exclusive supper afterwards to dine with the stars of the show. Entries will be accepted via the Covent Garden London website www.coventgardenlondonuk.com and by picking up an entry postcard from the Market Building before 20th June.

Brand Director of Covent Garden London Beverly Churchill said We have always been a huge supporter of the arts in Covent Garden and are proud to be working with Muse A Muse on this very special event. As the home of both the Royal Opera House and the Royal Ballet Company, were thrilled to be participating in bringing some of the magic of Covent Garden to Lagrasse.

Muse-A-Muse is delighted that Covent Garden Group are so generously supporting their inaugural performance in Lagrasse and very much look forward to building on this relationship for the future Johanna Adams Farley of Muse A Muse said.

Covent Garden has a strong heritage in supporting arts and culture and in recent years has seen collaborations with The Tate Modern, The London Design Festival, Fashion Fringe at Covent Garden and The London Architecture Festival; and now the perfect pairing with the Muse A Muse Arts Association.

For more information and entry details please visit http://www.coventgardenlondonuk.com
To purchase tickets to the event please visit http://www.muse-a-muse.com

MALAYSIA KITCHEN APPOINTS RICK STEIN AS AMBASSADOR AND UNVEILS ITS PLANS FOR POPULAR RESTAURANT FESTIVAL, TASTE OF LONDON 2010

Malaysia Kitchen 2010 (www.malaysiakitchen.co.uk) is a year- long campaign that aims to educate and inform British consumers about the exciting world of Malaysian cuisine. MATRADE (the agency behind Malaysia Kitchen) has announced it has recruited Rick Stein to be the official ambassador for the campaign, and he will share his passion for Malaysian food via a series of editorial and experiential activities.
In addition to this exciting appointment, Malaysia Kitchen will also be a highlight at this years Taste of London in Regents Park between June 17th and 20th. The popular restaurant festival will be Ricks first appearance as Malaysia Kitchens ambassador and he will officially open the Taste of Malaysia area and be on hand with live Malaysian cooking demonstrations.

Following on from the success of Rick Steins BBC TV Series Far Eastern Odyssey, where he discovered the joys of Malaysian cuisine, Ricks support of Malaysia Kitchen is a natural progression. He will share his knowledge, interest and enthusiasm for this far Eastern culinary jewel by creating brand new recipes showcasing the very best of the richly diverse Malay cuisine.

I am thrilled to be a part of the Malaysia Kitchen campaign,commented Rick. Malaysian food is one of the most fascinating and varied of the worlds cuisines, and is as yet relatively unknown here in the UK. I am very keen to share my enthusiasm for Malaysian cooking in all its diversity, and hope that I will help Malaysia Kitchen in their aim of educating and inspiring people here in UK to experience Malaysian cuisine themselves.

At Taste of London, Taste of Malaysia will introduce visitors to the very best of Malaysias cuisine and culture. Three of Londons best Malaysian restaurants, Tukdin, Awana and Satay House will be present throughout the festival, cooking their signature dishes. In addition the Taste of Malaysia area will play host to a multitude of activity including vibrant cultural and musical shows and cooking demonstrations from Rick Stein and other top chefs, including Anna Hansen (The Modern Pantry) and Andy Oliver.

Other attractions at Taste of Malaysia will include a tea lounge, where guests can sample Malaysias many tea varieties and watch the famous Teh Tarik or pulled tea ceremony where black Malaysian tea and condensed milk are poured back and forth repeatedly between two cups from a height, resulting in a thick frothy top. A cocktail bar will see highly skilled flairtenders serving up an assortment of cocktails using the abundance of Malaysian fruits.

With the appointment of Rick Stein as its ambassador, and high profile participation at one of the key events in Londons foodie calendar, the Malaysia Kitchen campaign is on course to achieve its goal of helping the British public wake up to the delights of Malaysian cuisine.

About Malaysia Kitchen
Malaysia Kitchen 2010 (www.malaysiakitchen.co.uk) is a Malaysian Government initiative that aims to educate and inform British consumers about the inspiring world of Malaysian cuisine.

The objectives of the campaign is, through a series of exciting activities and events planned this year, drive trial, experience and awareness of Malaysian cooking and encourage diners to enjoy the diverse tastes of the country in Malaysian restaurants in London and throughout the UK.

About Taste of London
Taste of London (www.tastefestivals.com/london) at Regents Park was Londons first and largest pop up restaurant festival. Now in its seventh year, Taste of London brings together the Capitals finest chefs and restaurants and food and drink.

Taste of London this year runs from 17 to 20 June 2010 at Regents Park.

FRESHER FRESHERS TO GROW THEIR OWN FOR A TASTE OF THE GOOD LIFE
The traditional image of university students as cash strapped with less than perfect diets could be about to change with the introduction of a new scheme from Homebase and the National Union of Students (NUS) to allow thousands of undergraduates to grow and eat their own fruit and veg. With rising student debt and high food inflation impacting on student dietary habits, the introduction of the Fresher Freshers initiative couldnt come at a better time.

Launched on Friday 28 May, the Grow Your Own (GYO) scheme aims to promote a long-term behavioral change amongst some of the most financially pressured in society, who often struggle to eat a balanced diet. The average student leaves university with £20,000 worth of debt[1] and recent research into student eating habits showed that 63%[2] of students have changed their diet to eat less nutritious food as a result of financial pressures. With food inflation rising to 2.6% in April[3] and £200 million of university funding cuts just announced, this effect is only likely to increase.

The Homebase scheme will provide plants, seeds and tools, as well as advice and support from local stores, to universities that have provided land and staff to support the initiative. Campus activity will include creation of GYO societies, development of plots and polytunnels, the implementation of veg box schemes and the sale of produce back to fellow students and local communities.

Matthew Compton, category manager, garden horticulture at Homebase says: This initiative is about creating a generation of graduates with healthier, greener and more pocket-friendly eating habits. If students learn at this influential life-stage to grow healthy, fresh food for themselves and their local communities we hope they will take those skills and that passion on into later life. The GYO category increased 30% year on year in 2009 and we want students to be able to benefit from this social trend.

Susan Nash, Vice President of Society and Citizenship of NUS says Recent NUS research has shown us that 42% of students would grow their own fruit and vegetables if given the facilities and tools. The Fresher Freshers initiative offers universities and students that opportunity and we are looking forward to seeing the fruits of our labour in the near future.

The initial rollout will see capital, product and expert support provided to the University of Bradford Union, Leeds University Union, Liverpool Guild of Students, University of Gloucestershire Students' Union, University of Bristol Union, Students' Union Royal Holloway and University of Kent Union.

Student Sarah Taylor, who has been involved in a growing project at The University of Gloucestershire, says: With virtually no experience of growing food or gardening when I got involved in the project, I've learnt far more than I ever expected. The practical skills, community involvement and the love of growing and cooking food are amongst the many pleasures of the project that I will take with me throughout my life."

Students can log on to the online community http://www.getintogardening.co.uk

to get recipe ideas, growing tips and chat to other grow your own enthusiasts in the forum section.

Visit http://www.nus.org.uk/fresherfreshers for more information.

[1] Survey by Push student guides, August 2008

[2] Sodexo University Lifestyle Survey, March 2010

[3] British Retail Consortium, May 2010

STARBUCKS DISCOVERIES
Starbucks Discoveries chilled coffees and Starbucks Doubleshot Espresso and Milk drink can now be found in the chilled section of major retail outlets and Starbucks stores across the UK. The drinks are made with 100 percent fairtrade certified Starbucks coffee with milk and can be enjoyed anytime and anywhere.
Inspired by Starbucks coffee buyers who travel the world looking for the highest quality arabica coffee and designed for when you are out and about, Starbucks Discoveries chilled coffee range is available in three indulgent flavours: Seattle Latte, named after the birthplace of Starbucks; Aztlan Mocha Latte (chocolate flavour) after the mythical birthplace of the Aztecs; and Qandi‚ Latte (caramel flavour) from the Greek island of Qandi. With these exotic locations depicted on the side of each cup, kick-starting the imagination, a Starbucks Discoveries chilled coffee is the perfect accompaniment for those times in a day when one opts for a respite from the reality of everyday life those much needed moments of escapism.

In celebration of these moments and the launch of Starbucks Discoveries chilled coffees, Starbucks Coffee Company commissioned research to find out what escapism means to women and how they spend these moments throughout their day. Through this research it was discovered that while most UK women take three different moments of escapism during a day, one in six women are so busy that they never have time for even the briefest moment however 88% of women feel that taking time for these moments is essential to get through the day.

Womens fiction author, Heidi Rice commented: The Starbucks Discoveries chilled coffee research highlights why we need to weave moments of escapism into our days. With so much to contend with in our daily lives, these moments to ourselves are what keep us sane. Be it the well trodden path of escaping into a book or a quick celeb check on the internet; make sure you have your next one scheduled!

With 40 percent of women choosing to have a drink during their moments of escapism, Starbucks is thrilled to be introducing Starbucks Discoveries chilled coffee range across the UK.

In addition to the Starbucks Discoveries chilled coffee range, Starbucks is introducing Starbucks Doubleshot Espresso & Milk drink, a delicious canned blend of authentic Starbucks espresso, lightly sweetened and mellowed with milk. Arla Foods, one of Europes largest dairy companies, will manufacture, distribute and market the Starbucks-branded premium chilled coffee drinks. For more information, please visit www.starbuckscoffeeonthego.com.
Starbucks Discoveries chilled coffee recommended RRP: £1.49 Starbucks Doubleshot RRP: £1.29

PIERRE & VACANCES LAUNCHES MEGA SUMMER HOLIDAY DEALS FROM €5 PER PERSON, PER NIGHT
For a limited time only, British holidaymakers can book summer holiday accommodation from as little as €5 per person, per night in locations across France and Spain with European self catering specialist Pierre & Vacances.

The offer is valid on selected Pierre & Vacances summer holiday destinations, accommodation sizes and dates for bookings made before the 21st June 2010.

The mega summer deal includes self-catering properties on the Atlantic Coast of France, along the Cote D'Azur and Mediterranean, in the French Pyrenees, Brittany and Normandy. Pierre & Vacances properties in Spain, including on the Costa del Sol and Costa Dorada are also available. The offer is valid on selected dates until the end of August 2010. Below we have listed a selection of the deals on offer, to view all of the deals, please visit: http://www.pv-holidays.com/the-race-is-on_ms

French Alps from only €5 per person, per night

Residence Maeva Les Balcons du Soleil, Font Romeu
A studio apartment sleeping up to four people from the 28th August ‚4th September 2010 costs €152 (£130)or just €5 per person, per night
With a magnificent view over the Pyrenees mountain range, Les Balcons du Soleil residence in Font Romeu is 100m from the shops and services of the resort and just 20 kilometres from the Spanish border. The summer season offers a variety of recreational activities in the Pyrenees, including hikes in the nearby Font-Romeu Forest and free access to the nearby swimming pool in Targasonne. All apartments are equipped with a kitchen area. http://bit.ly/bA0NDq

Atlantic Coast from only €7 per person, per night

Residence Club Maeva Mar Grana, Moliets
A one bedroom cottage sleeping up to six people from the 26th June - 3rd July 2010 costs €280.00 (£239) - or just €7 per person, per night
Residence Club Maeva Mar Grana is a popular holiday village located within the Landais forest, only a short drive from a sandy beach. The Moliets golf course is less than 500m away, and the property itself boasts two outdoor swimming pools, a paddling pool for children and plenty of sports activities including a football pitch, ping-pong tables, tennis court, mini-golf and bikes are also available for hire. A mini market and restaurant are also on site. Each cottage comes equipped with a kitchen and living area. http://bit.ly/awluAT

Normandy from only €10 per person, per night

Residence Maeva Port Guillaume, Dives sur Mer
A one bedroom duplex apartment sleeping up to six people from the 19th 26th June 2010 costs €416 (¬£354) ‚ or just €10 per person, per night
Residence Maeva Port Guillaume is ideally situated at the Port Guillaume marina in Dives sur Mer, close to both Cabourg and Houlgate beach. The property boasts an indoor and outdoor swimming pool and tennis, horse riding and watersports can be booked through reception. Preferential rates at the local golf course are also on offer for all guests. http://bit.ly/dnqFns

Spain from only €13 per person, per night

Residence Pierre & Vacances Altea Hills Hotel, Costa Blanca
A one bedroom apartment suitable for up to four people from the 17th ‚24th July 2010 costs €360 (¬£306) or just €13 per person, per night
The Pierre & Vacances Altea Hills hotel and apartments offers fantastic views across the Altea Bay and has a typical Mediterranean architecture. The village of Altea is only 5km away, and the marina at Luis Campomanes is 2.5 km from the property. Onsite, there is a spa, three outdoor pools and one indoor, heated swimming pool. All apartments come equipped with a fully fitted kitchen and living area. http://bit.ly/c2kAX5

Mediterranean from only €13 per person, per night

Maeva Golf de Lesterel, Vallescure
A one bedroom apartment sleeping up to six people from the 19th ‚26th June 2010 costs €536 (¬£458) or just €13 per person, per night
Located on the French Riviera, close to Frejus and Saint Raphael, this family-friendly holiday village is set at the heart of the Esterel International Golf Course. On-site there is a large outdoor swimming pool and bar/restaurant area and the beach is just 10 minutes away. All apartments feature a kitchen and living area. http://bit.ly/cp0CC0

For further details, or to make a booking, please visit http://www.pv-holidays.com or call 0870 026 7144.

About Pierre & Vacances
Pierre & Vacances is the number one provider of holiday residences, resorts and hotels all over France. It offers over 45,000 self-catering apartments and hotel rooms throughout France, Spain, Italy and the French Caribbean through the main brands of Pierre & Vacances Residences, Pierre & Vacances Resorts and Pierre & Vacances Premium. The company also operates great value Maeva Residences in France, as well as Latitudes Hotels offering spacious bedrooms and top-class facilities. Pierre & Vacances also offers 30 Adagio city centre aparthotels across Europe, ideally located at the heart of cities such as Paris, Brussels, Berlin and Vienna.

Further information
For further consumer information on Pierre & Vacances, please visit: http://www.pv-holidays.com or telephone: 0870 026 7144.

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