CHARLES DICKENS - CATHERINE WELLS-COLE, ILLUSTRATED BY VARIOUS ARTISTS

New to this award-winning series is the notebook of author Charles Dickens. With excerpts from his personal correspondence, synopses of his major works and factual information about his life and times, this is a capsule dose of Dickens. Including his own amazing rags-to-riches story and a focus on the themes of social reform in which he took great interest, this novelty-filled notebook immerses the reader in Victorian life. 2012 sees the bicentenary of his birth, when a new generation of readers can meet Oliver Twist, Ebenezer Scrooge, David Copperfield and a host of enduring and iconic characters who will always be remembered.

http://www.templarco.co.uk/novelty/historical_notebooks.html

For more information about events celebrating Charles Dickens visit:
http://www.dickens2012.org/

Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict
This is an absolutely stunning book, that Templar Publishing excel in. Beautifully presented, full of fascinating facts, and something for adults and children alike to treasure. Highly Recommended!

SAM LLOYD'S MINI MONSTER MATES NAUGHTY NANCY & LENNY LONG-LEGS- SAM LLOYD
Here are the Mini Monster Mates, who live in the same monster-land as the award-winning Boris, Sid, Wendy and friends.
We have already met Ernie, who likes to spot colours; and Norman, who can't resist sticking his nose in and counting all kinds of smelly things. Now meet Lenny Long Legs, who likes to try out opposites; and Naughty Nancy, who finds that friendship is about being nice.

http://www.templarco.co.uk/novelty/sam_lloyd.html

Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict
Sam Lloyd’s Boris and friends are a huge favourite with our Junior Reviewers and this Mini Monster collection brought great delight.
Delightful story with a message, these are perfect for young children!
We loved them. Highly Recommended!

INSPIRE YOUR CHILDREN THIS HALF-TERM WITH SOME FUN AND EDUCATIONAL LONDON 2012 MERCHANDISE.

With half term (and the 2012 Games!) fast approaching, the London 2012 Shop has everything you need to keep the kids stylishly dressed, entertained and active this half term:

Keep active:

Weather permitting, there’s no better way to keep your children from boredom over the holidays than by letting them let loose outdoors. With a host of amazing sporting equipment for boys and girls, including skateboards, scooters, bouncy-balls, footballs and all sorts of boomerangs there’s no event that your little athlete can’t prepare for. Make sure they are dressed appropriately for the rough and tumble of the out-doors in some stylish London 2012 branded clothes, with a collection that includes t-shirts, jackets, jumpers, socks and much more.

Swot up on the Games:

Which Olympian has won more gold medals than any others?
How much can you “buy” the Olympic stadium for on the London 2012 Monopoly game?

Give your kids a fun and interactive way to celebrate Great Britain’s rich and inspirational Olympic history, as well as learning about the London 2012 Games by playing the special edition London 2012 Trivial Pursuit™ and London 2012 Monopoly™ board games.

There’s even a special edition London 2012 Top Trumps Tournament™ to take you right to the heart of the London 2012 Olympic Games! With British Legends, World Legends, Paralympic Heroes, Olympic Sports, Ones To Watch, and Olympic Moments packs, it has everything you need for London 2012, including the chance to win thousands of great prizes such as a once in a lifetime chance to go rowing with Olympic Legend Sir Steve Redgrave.

Travel fun:
Whether they’re off to the grandparents’ for half-term week or just taking a day trip, make sure your kids are travelling in London 2012 style. From Trunkis to luggage tags to day bags the London 2012 collection has something for all ages and all occasions. There are even hats, umbrellas and towels to keep them warm and dry through the cold snap.

When it rains:
A collection of fun Team GB & ParalympicsGB activity and Team GB & ParalympicsGB colouring books, as well as a fictional series aimed at the youth audience will keep your little ones’ imagination running even when they’re inside. The budding Banksy's can enjoy hours of enjoyment taking crayons or felt tips to the Team GB themes and athletes, while days of quizzes, puzzles and games all centered around their favourite Team GB athletes is sure to keep the kids amused. The activity book also has colourful photos and abundant fun facts, as well as 50 fabulous stickers for the young athletes out there to aspire to.

At the end of the day…:
Bath time will never be the same again with a range of event specific rubber ducks available to make sure that bath time is just as exciting as going to the Games themselves. There’s even range of pyjama’s and Mascot themed bedding to keep their London 2012 dreams alive while they sleep.

You can find the whole London 2012 range online here or in the network of shops at St Pancras International and Paddington stations, Heathrow Terminals 3 and 5, Stansted Airport, Canary Wharf and in John Lewis locations at Oxford Street, Stratford City, Bluewater, Kingston and Liverpool One.

http://shop.london2012.com/

HUMUNGOUSAUR MUSCLES INTO WESTFIELD STRATFORD CITY
Popular children’s character, Humungousaur from Cartoon Network’s hit TV series, Ben 10, will be making an appearance at Westfield Stratford City this week.
For his very first appearance at Westfield Stratford City, the towering two-metre tall dinosaur-man will visit the centre on Monday 13 February to meet and greet all his fans at 11am, 12pm, 1.30pm, 2.30pm and 3.30pm in The Gallery on the Ground Floor. Be sure to get your wristbands early as there are only limited numbers available. As a special treat, when parents sign up their children to the Westfield Kids Club on the day of the meet and greet, they will receive a free ‘Ben 10’ ball, featuring all the show’s favourite characters.

Members of the Westfield Kids club receive loads of great benefits including a welcome pack, membership card and regular newsletters with information about the fun family events taking place at Westfield Stratford City.

Ben 10 is the smash hit action-adventure animation series, which airs on Cartoon Network. Since its launch, Ben 10 has become a top rating show and established itself as a global success. With the help of his Omnitrix, Ben 10 can fight evil by choosing to transform into several different hero aliens!
Humungousaur is a member of a saurian species, he’s a dinosaur-man who can bench-press a pickup truck and can grow to nearly 60 feet tall.
Don’t miss Ben 10: Ultimate Alien every day on Cartoon Network

Visit www.westfield.com/stratfordcity for more information of events

STAY AND PLAY PACKAGES AT DRAYTON MANOR THEME PARK
Families looking to make the most of their trip to Drayton Manor Theme Park in February and March can now get discount Stay & Play packages, which include a night at the 4-star Drayton Manor Hotel and tickets into the park.

The Stay & Play packages start from just £104.00, based on a family of four (2 adults and 2 children) sharing a standard Family Room. A full English breakfast is included.

The packages are valid for the following weekends: Friday 24th February – Monday 27th February; Friday 2nd March – Monday 5th March; Friday 9th March – Monday 12th March.

During these weekends Drayton Manor’s Thomas Land™, along with the 15-acre zoo will both be open. Thomas Land is packed with rides and attractions based on loveable Thomas & Friends™ characters, including Cranky the Crane and Harold the Helicopter. There’s also a Thomas the Tank Engine train ride, indoor and outdoor play areas, café and a shop selling a wide range of Thomas & Friends merchandise.

Meanwhile, Drayton Manor Zoo has more than 100 animal species from around the world, including big cats, monkeys and primates, as well as penguins and various reptiles.

For more information or to book a stay go to www.draytonmanorhotel.co.uk or call 01827 285551. The hotel is also on Facebook www.facebook.com/Drayton-Manor-Hotel and Twitter www.twitter.com/DraytonManHotel for regular updates and news. Please note, no other attractions will be open during these weekends.

NATIONAL TRUST’S BEST FEBRUARY HALF TERM EVENTS

Enjoy getting out of the house after the long winter and discover family adventures throughout the first school holiday of 2012. With adventure trails, bug hunts and themed activities, the National Trust has everything you need for a great day out.

Here are our top family events taking place during the February half term:

Brockhampton Estate, Herefordshire
Family Outdoor Trail, 11-19 February 11am-4pm
Dust off the winter cobwebs and make the most of the great outdoors at Brockhampton. Enjoy the early signs of spring with an outdoor trail, and keep an eye out for the rich variety of wildlife on the estate, along with historic farming breeds such as Hereford cattle and Ryeland sheep.
Normal admission charges apply, plus £2 per trail including prize.
Booking not needed.
For more information, please call 01885 482077.

Brownsea Island, Dorset
It's a Bug's Life, 18-19 February 10am-4pm
Get creative with the creatures on Brownsea Island! Find us in the Visitor Centre during February half term and make the most of our free bug trails and make and take craft activities.
Normal admission charges apply.
Booking not needed.
For more information, please call 01202 707744.

Cragside, Northumberland
Water Wizards, 11-12 and 14-19 February 11.30am-3pm
Get hands on and investigate the wonder of water for yourself, experimenting just as Lord Armstrong once did. Take a walk around Tumbleton Lake and join our volunteers at each water station for interactive fun.
No admission charges apply*, there may be a small charge for some activities.
Booking not needed.
For more information, please call 01669 620333.

Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden,North Yorkshire
School Holiday Heraldry Fun, 11-19 February 11am-3pm
Follow the clues on our trail and join in with drop-in craft activities in Swanley Grange. There are loads of things to see and explore at this World Heritage Site; play hide and seek in the Abbey Ruins, spot the different breeds in the medieval deer park or search for the grotto in the Georgian water garden.
Normal admission charges apply.
Booking not needed.
For more information, please call 01765 608888.

Hanbury Hall and Gardens, Worcestershire
Family Activity Days, 14 & 16 February 11am-4.30pm
Enjoy a trail around the garden and art and craft activities. Explore the grounds and surrounding countryside, or simply run wild in the children’s play area.
Trail only also available 13 & 15 February. Normal admission charges apply, plus a small additional charge for activities.
Booking not needed.
For more information, please call 01527 821214.

Kedleston Hall, Derbyshire
Children's Half Term Nature Trail, 11-19 February 11am-4pm
Explore the parkland and spot plants and wildlife on our self guided trail. Pick up a tracker pack and see what else you can find in the extensive house and parkland.
Normal admission charges apply.
Booking not needed.
For more information, please call 01332 842191.

Rufford Old Hall, Lancashire
Traditional Games & Snowdrop Trails, 13-15 February 11am-4pm
Join in traditional family games including draughts, Nine Men’s Morris, dominoes, snakes and ladders and ludo in the magnificent 16th century great hall at Rufford. If weather is fine Giant Chess, skittles and skipping will be on offer. Snowdrop walks at 1pm each day.
Normal admission charges apply.
Booking not needed.
For more information, please call 01704 821254

Scotney Castle, Kent
Bugs in the Rugs! 15-19 February 11am-3pm
Become a bug hunter in the Scotney mansion for half term. Old country houses are full of weird and wonderful bugs and beasties. Join in the fun and see if you can hunt down some of our creepy critters!
Normal admission charges apply.
Booking not needed.
For more information, please call 01892 893 860.

Springhill, Co. Londonderry
Bird Box Day, 19 February 1-5pm
Help us rejuvenate Springhill’s bird boxes and discover which ones have been used. Build your own bird box to take home. Families welcome.
Normal admission charges apply.
Booking not needed.
For more information, please call 028 8674 8210.

Stowe, Buckinghamshire
February Half Term at Stowe, 13-17 February 10am-4pm
Youngsters can enjoy teddy bear fun at Stowe this half term. Activities include teddy hide and seek (indoors and out), colouring sheets and create your own teddy bears' picnic.
Normal admission charges apply.
Booking not needed.
For more information, please call 01280 822850.

Studland Beach and Nature Reserve, Dorset
Pirate Week, 13-17 February 10.30am-3.30pm
Join us at Studland for Pirate Week. Over the week there’ll be lots on; including a trail, sand sculpture fun, talk like a pirate lessons, den building, design your own pirate flag, make your own edible 'pieces of eight' and Studland stories.
Normal admission charges apply, plus small charge for some activities.
Booking not needed.
For more information, please call 01929 450259.

Wallington, Northumberland
Wake Up at Wallington, 13-17 February 11am-12.30pm and 1.30pm-3pm
Join us to celebrate the start of spring with wildlife themed art and craft activities throughout the week, from bird box making and crafty creatures to leaf mask making and wild art.
No admission charges apply*.
Booking not needed.
For more information, please call 01670 773600.

*Cragside and Wallington, both in Northumberland, are waiving admission fees for the house and estate over this February half term.

ENGLISH HERITAGE - HALF TERM EVENTS

HALF TERM FAMILY FUN TRAIL
Goodrich Castle, Herefordshire
Sat 11-Sun 19 Feb, 10am-4pm
Calling all junior investigators! Can you help us crack clues and solve a mystery to earn your prize?
Prices: Adults £5.80 / Concessions £5.20 / Children £3.50 / Family £15.10
English Heritage members: Free
www.english-heritage.org.uk/goodrich

HALF TERM FAMILY FUN TRAIL
Kenilworth Castle & Elizabethan Garden, Warwickshire
Sat 11-Sun 19 Feb, 10am-4pm
Calling all junior investigators! Can you help us crack clues and solve a mystery to earn your prize?
Prices: Adults £8 / Concessions £7.20 / Children £4.80 / Family £20.80
English Heritage members: Free
www.english-heritage.org.uk/kenilworth

HALF TERM FAMILY FUN TRAIL
Stokesay Castle, Shropshire
Sat 11-Sun 19 Feb, 10am-4pm
Calling all junior investigators! Can you help us crack clues and solve a mystery to earn your prize?
Prices: Adults £5.80 / Concessions £5.20 / Children £3.50 / Family £15.10
English Heritage members: Free
www.english-heritage.org.uk/stokesay

HALF TERM FAMILY FUN TRAIL
Wenlock Priory, Shropshire
Sat 11-Sun 19 Feb, 10am-4pm
Calling all junior investigators! Can you help us crack clues and solve a mystery to earn your prize?
Prices: Adults £4 / Concessions £3.60 / Children £2.40
English Heritage members: Free
www.english-heritage.org.uk/wenlock

VIKING TRAIL FOR CHILDREN
Clifford's Tower, York
Sat 11-Sun 19 Feb, 10am-4pm
Concealed within the grounds are the mini model Viking Gods and Goddesses who promise a small prize to those who can find them. In conjunction with the Jorvik Viking Festival.
Prices: Adults £3.90 / Concessions £3.50 / Children £2.30 / Family £10.10
English Heritage members: Free
www.english-heritage.org.uk/cliffordstower

NORMAN & SAXON QUEST
1066 Battle of Hastings, Abbey & Battlefield, Sussex
Sat 11-Sun 19 Feb, time TBC
Can you help us find all the mini Norman and Saxon soldiers around the grounds of Battle Abbey? Find them all to receive your prize!
Prices: Adults £7.30 / Concessions £6.60 / Children £4.40 / Family £19.00
English Heritage members: Free
www.english-heritage.org.uk/battleabbey

HALF TERM FAMILY FUN TRAIL
Old Sarum, Wiltshire
Sat 11-Sun 19 Feb, 11am-3pm
Calling all junior investigators! Can you help us crack clues and solve a mystery to earn your prize?
Prices: Adults £3.70 / Concessions £3.30 / Children £2.20
English Heritage members: Free
www.english-heritage.org.uk/oldsarum

HALF TERM TRAIL
Pendennis Castle, Cornwall
Sat 11-Sun 19 Feb, 10am-4pm
Calling all junior investigators! Can you help us crack clues and solve a mystery to earn your prize?
Prices: Adults £6.30 / Concessions £5.70/ Children £3.80
English Heritage members: Free
www.english-heritage.org.uk/pendennis

FAMILY FUN TRAIL
Wrest Park, Bedfordshire
Sat 11-Sun 19 Feb, 11am-4pm
Join us this February half term for our Family Fun Trail, find the hidden clues to solve the puzzle and win a yumy prize.
Prices: Adults £8 / Concessions £7.20/ Children £4.80 / Family £20.80
English Heritage members: Free
Ticket price includes entry to event plus, entry to the house and grounds
www.english-heritage.org.uk/pendennis

EVERYTHING BUT THE SQUEAK WEEK!
Audley End House and Gardens, Essex
Sat 11- Sun 12 Feb, 11am - 4pm
This half term come to Audley End and watch Mrs Crocombe – Audley End’s resident cook - prepare a whole host of traditional Victorian pork recipes as she includes everything but the squeak in her unusual recipes!
Prices: Adults £8.70 / Concessions £7.80/ Children £5.20 / Family £22.60
English Heritage members: Free
Ticket price includes entry to event plus, entry to the Service Wing, Stables Yard & grounds
www.english-heritage.org.uk/audley

FAMILY FUN TRAIL
Framlingham Castle, Suffolk
Sat 11-Sun 19 Feb, 11am- 4pm
Join us this February half term for our Family Fun Trail, find the hidden clues to solve the puzzle and win a yumy prize.
Prices: Adults £6.30 / Concessions £5.70/ Children £3.80/ Family £16.40
English Heritage members: Free
Ticket price includes entry to event plus, entry to the castle
www.english-heritage.org.uk/framlingham

FAMILY FUN TRAIL
Eltham Palace and Gardens, Greenwich
Sun 12-Wed 15 Feb, 11am-4pm
Join us this February half term for our Family Fun Trail, find the hidden clues to solve the puzzle and win a yumy prize.
Prices: Adults £9.30 / Concessions £8.40/ Children £5.60/ Family £24.20
English Heritage members: Free
Ticket price includes entry to event plus, entry to the Palace & Grounds.
www.english-heritage.org.uk/eltham

TIME TRAVELLERS GO…KNIGHTS & PRINCESSES
Bolsover Castle, Derbyshire
Mon 13-Fri 17 Feb, 11am- 4pm
Budding knights needed! Fearless, daring, brave, does that sound like you? Then join our trio of brave, bold and noble knights to learn about the art of medieval warfare! See amazing demonstrations, test out medieval armour and take part in a mock sword fight
Prices: Adults £7.80 / Concessions £7 / Children £4.70/ Family £20.30
English Heritage members: Free
Ticket price includes entry to event plus, entry to the castle & grounds
All children are welcome to join in the Time Travellers Go… events. An additional £1 will be charged on standard admission for every child, member and non member, to help us fund this entertainment activity.
www.english-heritage.org.uk/bolsover

EVERYTHING BUT THE SQUEAK WEEK!
Audley End House and Gardens, Essex
Wed 15- Sun 19 Feb, 11am - 4pm
This half term come to Audley End and watch Mrs Crocombe – Audley End’s resident cook - prepare a whole host of traditional Victorian pork recipes as she includes everything but the squeak in her unusual recipes!
Prices: Adults £8.70 / Concessions £7.80 / Children £5.20/ Family £22.60
English Heritage members: Free
Ticket price includes entry to event plus, entry to the Service Wing, Stables Yard & grounds
www.english-heritage.org.uk/audley

The Flower Council of Holland (FCH), BBC Blue Peter Gardener Chris Collins and the Gardening Club at The Roof Gardens in Kensington have joined forces to educate local children on the positive influences potted flower bulbs can bring to their lives with a fun and educational morning of gardening.

Children from Barlby Primary School (Year 2) and Golborne Children’s Centre (Nursery) in North Kensington, will attend a hands-on gardening demonstration on Wednesday 22nd February to learn how to create colourful and decorative arrangements with bulb flowers in pots. Under the expert eyes of The Roof Gardens Head Gardener, David Lewis, and VIP guest gardener, BBC Blue Peter Gardener, Chris Collins, the children will create beautiful displays using: Tulip, Hyacinth, Iris, Narcissi and Calla Lily.

Chris Collins, BBC Blue Peter Gardener, says: “Creating eye-catching displays in the garden with flower bulbs in pots is so rewarding and particularly for kids as it is an instant result. This is a fantastic opportunity for local school children to learn more about bulb plants and how to create fun displays for their home or school gardens.”

A competition element will add extra excitement to the day, as children will be judged on their individually decorated pots at the end of the session. 1st, 2nd and 3rd prizes will be awarded to each age group.

The demonstration will be held in the Tudor Garden Marquee, which is set in one of three themed gardens sprawling over 1.5 acres, six floors up over the heart of Kensington. With its resident flamingos and ducks, The Roof Gardens in Kensington is a beautiful space filled with fully grown oak and fruit trees, seasonal plants and flowers and a flowing stream stocked with fish and wildlife.

David Lewis, Head Gardener of The Roof Gardens, says: “The Roof Gardens in Kensington is a unique environment in London and it provides a perfect backdrop for the children to learn about gardening while potting flower bulbs and getting their hands dirty!”

The date for the activity is: Wednesday 22nd February 2012

Timing: 10.00am – 11.00am Golborne Children’s Centre
11.00am – 12 noon Barlby Primary School

Location: The Roof Gardens, 6th Floor, 99 Kensington High Street, London W8 5SA

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