Show your Mum you love her by cooking her something special this Mothering Sunday

To celebrate Mother’s Day this April, pioneering charity Breakthrough Breast Cancer and bestselling author Jane Green have teamed up to release a free exclusive recipe booklet, with accompanying photography, to encourage people to get cooking for their Mums.

The free recipe booklet, which is available to download from http://breakthrough.org.uk/mothersday, features 8 delicious and easy-to-make recipes from Jane Green’s newest novel The Love Verb. Jane wrote The Love Verb, after her experiences of nursing her best friend Heidi through breast cancer, a fight that Heidi tragically lost. One of the ways Jane supported Heidi and her family was by cooking for them, and so Breakthrough Breast Cancer and Jane Green are encouraging people to show their Mums they care, by treating them to something special and home-cooked this Mother’s Day.

Also available to download and send are a selection of Mother’s Day e-cards. Featuring mouth-watering photography of each of the recipes, they carry a pledge to make the dish pictured as a Mother’s Day treat.

Breast cancer is a disease which devastates nearly 48,000 women and their families every year. That’s why this Mother’s Day, Breakthrough Breast Cancer and Jane Green are asking people to remember those affected by this terrible disease. Anyone who downloads the recipe booklet and finds it useful is encouraged to make a donation to help the charity continue its life saving work and help to create a future free from the fear of breast cancer.

For more information about the campaign and to download the recipe booklet visit http://breakthrough.org.uk/mothersday or join the conversation on Facebook.com/BreakthroughBC.

THE ULTIMATE GIRLS DAY OUT IS BACK AND BETTER THAN EVER!

The Vitality Show 2011 offers a perfect line-up for a healthier, happier, fitter and more gorgeous you!

The wait for new and inspiring ways to look good and feel great is over as tickets for the Vitality Show 2011; the UK’s largest health, beauty, fitness and wellbeing event for women, go on sale. Whether it’s a well deserved day out with the girls or some much needed ‘me-time’, you’ll be sure to leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

The show offers four fun-packed days of pampering, shopping, healthy eating, dancing, socialising and essential know-how gathering, from 24-27 March at Earl’s Court London. Celebrity guests - from top TV chefs to dance professionals, athletes and some of life’s most inspirational people - will join the hottest health & beauty experts and over 300 absolute must-have fitness, food and lifestyle brands.

As the UK’s most eagerly anticipated girls’ day out, tickets are always in high demand so it’s advisable to book early to avoid missing out

Treat yourself to the perfect day out and book your place now at the hottest health, beauty, fitness and well-being event of the year by visiting www.vitalitylive.co.uk. Ticket prices start at only £5.

LIBERTY FACIAL EVENT MARCH
“I absolutely LOVED it – the therapist was amazing and the products were even more so. My skin looks and feels incredible” (Jess Hogan, VOGUE)

“Following my facial I’m an OSKIA convert!” (Julia, London)

For just £40 (fully redeemable against OSKIA products purchased on the day) you will receive the classic OSKIA “Glow Getter” facial, utilising our
award-winning products in the comfort of the boutique Liberty Beauty Room.

Treatments run for 45 minutes, from 10am to 7pm on Thursday 24th through to Saturday 26th March. To make an appointment please call Liberty on 0207 734 1234 (and ask for the Beauty Hall).

CELEBRATE THE BRITISH ROYAL WEDDING WITH THE SOVEREIGN AFTERNOON TEA AT THE PARK LANE HOTEL IN LONDON

Park Lane Hotel, London, March 2011 – In celebration of the British Royal Wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton on 29th April 2011, the Park Lane Hotel in London has created a special Sovereign Afternoon Tea. Guests are welcomed to the exquisite setting of the Palm Court, the Park Lane Hotel’s famed Art Deco lounge, to enjoy the mouth-watering delights of this deliciously regal London high tea.

The menu for the Sovereign Afternoon Tea on the occasion of the British Royal Wedding has been carefully devised by the Park Lane Hotel’s Executive Chef Andrew Bennett MBE and his award-winning Pastry Chef, Sarah Hartnett. Sarah is the current title holder of ‘Pastry Chef of the Year 2010’ having won the accolade at the prestigious Craft Guild of Chefs’ Annual Awards in June last year.

To begin, a selection of sandwiches and warm British savouries are served, including Poached Scottish Salmon and Brown Shrimps with Citrus Mayonnaise on Granary Bread; Roasted Red Pepper, Fresh Basil, Cream Cheese and Cucumber on Pain de Mie; Coronation Chicken on Sultana Bread; Mini Quails Egg and Spinach Benedict and traditional Yorkshire Parkin with Red Windsor Cheese and Apple Chutney.

Towers of plain and Bramley Apple and Golden Raisin homemade scones follow, complemented by seasonal preserves and clotted cream. Finally, guests will be presented with a selection of delightful desserts, fit for any Royal Wedding celebration, including traditional English Fruit Cake, Rosewater and Raspberry Macaroons and Wedding Biscuits.

After taking Tea, guests receive the gift of a cup and saucer set, created especially by Churchill China for The Park Lane Hotel’s Sovereign Afternoon Tea to commemorate the British Royal Wedding.

The Sovereign Afternoon Tea at the Park Lane Hotel will be served from 10th March 2011 (3pm-6pm on weekdays and 2pm-6pm at weekends) in The Palm Court and costs £45 per person. To book, call The Palm Court on 020 7920 7328 or visit www.palmcourtlondon.co.uk.

GO FASHION AT WESTFIELD LONDON’S BIG FASHION WARDROBE TUESDAY 29 MARCH – SUNDAY 3 APRIL
A walk-in wardrobe is something us girls dare only dream about, but this spring summer, Westfield London will be launching its first ever walk-in wardrobe fashion and beauty event, bringing The Big Fashion Wardrobe to the Capital.

From Tuesday 29th March to Sunday 3rd April, Westfield London will take the glamour of the fashion world and invite shoppers to experience a journey through every touch point of a fashion house from being in a ‘fashion cupboard’ full of fabulous clothing and accessories; getting a hair and beauty makeover through to creative fashion writing; modelling for a photo shoot and ending the experience with a catwalk finale.

The event will take the form of 7 fashion chambers; each chamber will be showcasing and selling the very best spring summer collections from
Westfield London’s super brands…

GO FASHION… THE WALK-IN WARDROBES
The Go Fashion chamber will comprise of 10 branded wardrobes, from high street to luxury brands including, River Island, French Connection, Reiss, Ted Baker, Firetrap and Lee Jeans to name a few. An eclectic room filled with spring summer’s most fabulous outfits, lust-haves, shoes and accessories will bring every fashionista’s dream will come to life as they get to explore the collections and even purchase on the spot! Can’t find your size? Brand Butlers will be on hand to hold items in-store or bring the item to the wardrobe.

GO STYLE… THE MAKEOVER
The beginning of any model’s journey starts in a beauty salon and so does The Big Fashion Wardrobe. Make-up artists from The Make-Up Store will be applying their expertise in the colour palettes of the season and Toni & Guy will be going all out with blow-out bar showing shoppers, step by step how to create their dream spring summer look; meet brand spokesmodels and learn about their passions and beauty secrets.

GO VIRTUAL… THE VIRTUAL FITTING ROOM
Westfield London will embrace the latest fashion technology that enables shoppers to try on outfits virtually, take photographs of themselves and create their own personal look to upload onto Facebook. Technophiles will be able to discover a new look by trying on anything from watches, shoes to complete outfits - even make-up with the make-up simulator.

GO FRONT COVER… THE PHOTO SHOOT
Ever dreamed of your very own photo shoot? Now is your chance – aspiring models can enter a super stylish black and white photographic studio, complete with a top photographer, fans and picture-perfect lighting. Stylists will on-hand showing modelistas how to work the ultimate pose and simply look fabulous on the ultimate fashion shoot.

GO BLOG… THE SCOOP
Want to tell the world what you what you discovered; how you feel and even show off their new look? Enter the media suite, complete with super stylish laptops and Wi-Fi where budding writers can report on their journey at The Big Fashion Wardrobe from favourite fashion finds to new discovered trends and beauty reviews. Pictures from the photo shoot will readily be available to download and upload to your Facebook page. What’s more, the UK’s most influential bloggers will be at the event blogging on the hottest and most sought after fashion, up-to-the-minute news and interviews, looks and upcoming faces. Stay up-to-date with the action on Westfield London’s twitter @westfieldlondon

GO MODEL… THE CHANCE TO BE WESTFIELD LONDON’S NEW FACE
Scouts from a Storm modelling agency will come to Westfield London from Tuesday 29th to Thursday 31st March to cast guys and girls for the opportunity to be the next new face of fashion. Visit www.westfield.com/london to apply!

AN EXPLOSIVE FASHION FINALE
On Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd April, the event will culminate in a fashion show showcasing over 70 of Westfield London’s most sought-after brands. Four live fashion shows each day will repeat over the weekend showcasing the finest fashion from spring summer’s top trends.

With a distinctive mix and match of designer and high street labels, Westfield London is an iconic fashion destination that offers the ultimate shopping experience. Under one stunning roof, we have more than 300 shops so there is something for everyone. The Village is a must-shop for all luxury lovers, featuring premium brands, from the world’s leading fashion houses, hot designers and chic boutiques.

MOTHER’S DAY AT SIENNA SPA
Treat your mum this Mother’s Day to a pamper experience she wont forget at the Sienna Spa, located in the award winning Radisson Edwardian Manchester hotel.

Sit back and relax, with Mum, as Sienna Spa offers guests a haven of tranquility and calm. The Mother’s Day package, for two, is priced at just £150 per couple. The package includes a one-hour Facial, choose from anti-aging, deep cleansing or rehydrating, and a luxurious Jessica Manicure.

Once you’ve been pampered, prepped and preened why not book in for Afternoon Tea at the hotel’s stunning Opus One restaurant and bar?

This is the ultimate way to show your mum just how special she is. The package also includes the use of all the Health Club facilities, including the swimming pool, relaxation rooms and Jacuzzi. Gift Vouchers can also be purchased for this package.

The Mother’s Day package is available from March 6th to April 3rd. For further information or to book this package visit www.siennaspa.net <http://www.siennaspa.net> or www.radissonedwardian.com/manchester.

YOU WON’T FOOL CHILDREN OF THE FOOD REVOLUTION – SHOWS LIKE MASTERCHEF HAVE INCREASED CHILDREN'S FOOD KNOWLEDGE

John Torode and Greg Wallace may strike fear among the Masterchef contestants, but it is mums who are facing the toughest food challenge. With 52% of children often disappointed with mum’s meals, blasting food as bland and full of boring ingredients.

Taste and flavour is now on the menu for kids with 74% of six to 16 year olds now claiming to be taste connoisseurs who can detect a variety of different seasoning including herbs, spices, garlic, salt and pepper within their meals reveals research from Colman’s Season & Shake.

TV celebrities inspire kids to love cooking shows

Heston Blumenthal’s ‘Mission Important’ and Jamie Oliver’s ‘School Dinners’ have not only highlighted the importance of healthy, tasty meals to adults but also created a food revolution among school children. 15% can talk more about Masterchef compared with only 10% of children who can explain what David Cameron does as Prime Minister!

20% of parents believe celebrity chefs have encouraged their families to be more adventurous when it comes to food. With 15% of children choosing to watch cooking programmes after cartoons, it is no surprise adolescents are becoming more aware of flavours and ingredients.

However, It’s not all ‘pukka’ for parents, with a third (36%) feeling the pressure their very own mini kitchen critics put on them as they are unable to recreate celebrity chef meals. They are worried that cooking skills don’t live up to the standard set by the master chefs and, therefore, don’t meet their children’s food requirements.

Cooking shakes up excitement in the classroom

The food trend is sweeping the playground as 45% of eight year olds enjoy learning about cooking in school and are most like to practice with their parents when they get home.

40% of pupils list home economics as their favourite school subject. Even boys are defying the traditional stereotype with a quarter (25%) claiming a love for food education.

Tony Tobin, celebrity chef and parent, understands the predicament parents are in. He says “It can seem impossible to prepare a meal that is nutritious as well as being easy and quick to make after a long day at work. Parents needn’t worry; cooking tasty meals doesn’t require hours slaving over a hot stove. Seasoning a meal with products such as Colman’s Season & Shake puts instant taste and flavour into a meal, which will tantalise your own mini kitchen critic’s taste buds!”

Tony Tobin’s top tips for parents

• Keep jars of dried herbs and spices in your cupboards – they can add taste and flavour to any meal in an instant
• Adding garlic to a simple dish such as Bolognese can really shake up the taste of a meal
• Sachets of seasoning, such as Colman’s Season & Shake, contain all the flavour you need to make a tasty meal quickly
• Dishes such as curries become more flavoursome over time. Cook a one at the weekend and then freeze it into portions for a quick weekday meal
• Invest in a decent baking dish – it is the quickest way to make wholesome, tasty meals – just throw all your ingredients in, add some seasoning and cook

Research conducted by OnePoll between 24.01.11 and 28.01.11 with a sample of 1,000 UK parents and 1,000 UK children (aged between 6 and 16)

YOUNGER GENERATION LOSING ITS GREEN FINGERS, FINDS GARDENERS’ WORLD MAGAZINE SURVEY
The nation is in danger of losing its green fingered skills with a sizeable majority of those under 34 unable to perform the most simple gardening tasks. This was a key finding from an ICM survey on behalf of Gardeners’ World magazine to celebrate its 20th anniversary.

The survey of more than 2,000 people across the UK found a generational split in gardening ability, with 40 per cent of people between the ages of 25-34 unable to perform any of the most basic gardening tasks, including: growing plants from seed, controlling pests, identifying plants, growing a lawn, pruning roses and making compost. By contrast, only 22 per cent of those over 55 were similarly unskilled. While a third of those over 65 years old rated their ability as very good, this fell to 21% of 25-34 year olds, with 54 per cent rating their ability as poor (5 out of 10 and less.) Only 31% of over 65s gave their ability a similar thumbs down.

But the survey provides hope for the future with the older generation able to inspire younger gardeners: the under 34s cited “their parents” as key influencers in their gardening. Meanwhile for the ‘baby boomer’ generation (55-64 year olds) “books” and “gardening programmes” were the key influencers, as well as “family” and “magazines”.

The survey was conducted on behalf of Gardeners’ World magazine to celebrate its 20th anniversary issue.

Other findings included:

· A gender split in terms of reasons for gardening. The biggest motivation for women was having a beautiful garden (29%), while for men relaxation was the biggest driver (25%).

· During the gardening season 21% of us will garden at least 2-3 times a week, with 19 % every day.

· Gardening creates positive emotions. The key emotional responses to gardening felt by respondents were “feeling relaxed” (51%), “contended” (46%) and “happy” (39%). Just 7% found it frustrating.

· The region that rates itself highest in terms of gardening ability is the South East with 28% awarding themselves at least 8/10.

· The least confident is Scotland with only 15% giving themselves the same score.

According to Adam Pasco, editor of Gardeners’ World magazine: “Despite growing trends such as Grow Your Own, it is worrying that there is a noticeable skills gap for the younger generation. As the survey shows, gardening can have a really positive impact on people’s lives and we urge those with the knowledge to pass on their experience and skills to the next generation.”

The survey was conducted by ICM in February of a cross section of 2031 adults throughout the UK

PG TIPS LAUNCHES THE NEW ONES
Innovative range of fresh-tasting tea heralds the first major brand innovation in black tea since the pyramid bag

PG tips, one of the the nation's favourite tea, has launched The New Ones – a range of everyday black teas designed to introduce variety to the black tea market. It comprises The Fresh One, The Strong One and The Delicate One.

Made using a unique process, the New Ones deliver fresh-tasting teas to suit different tastes and times throughout the day. Leaves are pressed at different stages during fermentation in order to capture and preserve the genuine and refined taste of fresh tea in each new blend:

· The Fresh One: Pressed within hours of picking to give a uniquely clean, smooth, golden and fresh-tasting tea. A refreshing pick-me up

· The Strong One: A full flavour blend with extra-pressed leaves and a rich, rounded character. For those times when you need a kick start

· The Delicate One: A delicate tasting blend that combines lightly pressed leaves and decaffeinated tea. A gentle, mellow cup for those moments of relaxation

“This is one of the most important launches in the history of PG tips tea. We are using innovative technology – that presses freshly picked tea leaves at different times – to create three new delicious black tea variants to better satisfy different tastes and peoples’ changing moods throughout the day,” says Silvia Grattieri, PG tips Brand Manager. “We had to find the right balance of freshness for each blend so we could delight our consumers with a great tea-drinking moment as well as deliver the genuine taste of fresh tea.”

The New Ones from PG tips are fully Rainforest Alliance Certified. They will be available in 80 bag boxes at all major retailers, from March 2011, with a RRP of £2.69.*

*Prices are at sole discretion of retailers

More information on PG tips, is available at http://www.pgtips.co.uk/.

VISIT LE VACHERIN FOR A TASTE OF REGIONAL FRENCH TRADITION
Named after the famous French cheese, Le Vacherin echoes Chiswick’s old English name of ‘Cheese Farm’ and reflects the rich gourmet and cultural history of French cuisine. Positioned to the west of the city away from the pace of busy working life with the intention of taking the diner back to the small local restaurants of French provincial towns, with romantic intimate tables and a relaxed atmosphere that does not distract from the traditionally crafted dishes. It’s the local everyone wishes they had in their neighbourhood…

Helmed by devoted Chef Patron, Malcolm John, the menu at Le Vacherin draws on his experience with fine French cuisine. The dishes are created with the word ‘bistro’ in mind, focusing less on provocative design or elaborate drama and more on emphasising the strength of the regional ingredients. The menu features regional favourites including Baked Vacherin with black truffle and almonds crust and Duck and sausage morteau Cassoulet, with Roasted crown and confit leg of Barbary duck and 28 day aged Châteaubriand for meat lovers or Seabass, parsley gnocchi, whitebait and carrot puree and a specialty Le Vacherin bouillabaisse for fish lovers.

Alongside the food menu, the wine list brings wines selected especially for matching with the regional dishes. The white wines include Labastide de Levis Sauvignon Blanc from the sandstone foot-hills of Tarn which draws out the delicate flavours of the lighter dishes, to Costières de Nîmes Grenache Blanc, an ideal match for grilled fish. The reds express much of the charm of French wine production, with nuanced Tourraine Gamay from the Loire valley for lighter food parings to rich and expressive Minervous made from the medieval grape variety, Carignan. For special celebrations there is a Rose Cremant de Bourgogne, the delicate sparkling speciality of Burgundy, amongst a choice of Champagnes.

The restaurant is styled on the quintessential Parisian bistro with inviting leather seating, Parisian-style pictures, mirrors and crisp white table cloths. The atmosphere is relaxing and welcoming to couples, groups and business diners with an attentive service which adds to the experience whether you are looking for an exceptional dinner or weekend lunch.

The restaurant provides the perfect location for Malcolm John’s calendar of special events throughout the year; the Le Vacherin Annual Wine Tasting Event invites diners to enjoy a 5 course meal matched with wines hosted by Malcolm and wine expert Silvia Garatti, and the Le Vacherin Annual Champagne and Sabrage Dinner brings diners together for a black tie event matching a 5 course dinner with Champagnes (including the exciting traditional art of opening a bottle with a sword!).

Following these, the Annual ‘Vacherin’ Dinner in September celebrates the start of a new Vacherin season as the cows come down from the mountains in Mont d’Or for the winter, and the annual Carnivore and Burgundy Dinner matches the finest meats with some of the world’s finest wines. Completed by a 5 course Truffle Dinner, these events reflect Le Vacherin’s relationship with the seasons and also with the community who enjoy the restaurant.

A firm favourite with locals, and a French menu based around carefully sourced, seasonal food together with an innovative wine list, Le Vacherin is sure to surpass your expectations.

Le Vacherin was Malcolm John’s first restaurant and has become highly acclaimed in the press and local community. He has since opened three more restaurants: Fish and Grill in Croydon, Brasserie Vacherin in Sutton and Le Cassoulet in Croydon.

76-77 South Parade,
Chiswick London W4 5LF
Tel 020 8742 2121
Lunch:
Saturday 12.00 – 3.00pm
Sunday - 12.00 – 4.00pm
Dinner:
Tuesday - Thursday - 6.00 – 10.30pm
Friday and Saturday – 6.00 – 11.00pm

BENTLEY’S OFFERS INDULGENCE THIS MOTHER’S DAY
Richard Corrigan’s Oyster Bar and Grill, Bentley’s, is an ideal location for that exclusive, perfect Mother’s Day outing. Centrally located on the borders of Soho and Mayfair, close to many major shopping areas and galleries, it is elegant, warm, and offering a fantastic deal to please all tastes.

A delicious four-course lunch will be on offer on Sunday 3rd April this year,priced at just £34.50. The set menu is as follows:

Starters
Eggs Benedict with Belvelly House Smoked Salmon.
Layered Terrine of Cured Meats with Lemon Pickled Pear and Sorrel.
Butternut Squash soup with Toasted Pine nuts and Lime Crème Fraiche.
Grilled Sardines with Caper, Raisin and Wild garlic

Main Course
Grilled Calf’s Liver with Sauce Diable and Red Onion Marmalade
Roast Sirloin of Beef with Roast Potatoes and Red Wine Jus
Roast Fillet of Cod with Mr Smith’s Temptation
Pan Seared Scallops with Black Pudding, Potato, Roast Apple and Sage

Dessert
Bread and Butter Pudding
Chocolate Tart with Mascarpone cream
Rhubarb Cobbler with Vanilla ice cream
Selection of British and Irish Cheeses with Homemade Oat Cakes

Tea and Coffee and Petit Fours

To book a table or for more information, please email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , or call (0)20 7734 4756

Address
11-15 Swallow Street
London
W1B 4DG

TO CELEBRATE ST.GEORGE’S DAY AND ENGLISH HERITAGE, SEARCYS’ PORTRAIT RESTAURANT ABOVE THE NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY WILL FEATURE A SPECIALLY PREPARED SET MENU BETWEEN THE 25TH AND 29TH APRIL
Diners will be treated to a menu inspired by ingredients from across the British Isles, with a choice of starters including ‘Homemade black pudding, baby spinach, poached free range egg, spiced old speckled hen sauce’ and mains featuring the great British favorite ‘London pride battered fish & chips with traditional accompaniments and a ‘Colston basset stilton & marrow tart, bubble & squeak with rocket salad’.
Deserts will include ‘Cambridge burnt cream, seasonal fruit compote’ - the British crème brûlée allegedly created in the Trinity College kitchens - and for patriotic cheese lovers there is an English cheese plate served with traditional fruit & nut loaf, crisp bread and oak cake.
The restaurant hosts some of the best views in London, overlooking monuments to great national achievements; Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament - a testament to British engineering and diplomacy – can be seen beyond Nelson’s Column, a monument to the most decisive British naval victory of the Napoleonic Wars. The London Eye can also be seen, a landmark to the city’s progressive nature and place on the world stage.
The set menu will be available for lunch and dinner, priced at 2 Courses for £20.00 and 3 Courses for £25.00, or alternatively 2 Courses with a ‘Portrait Bellini’ for £25.00 and 3 Courses with a ‘Portrait Bellini’ for £30.00.
For bookings at the Portrait Restaurant, call 020 7312 2490 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

AN AFTERNOON TEA WITH A DIFFERENCE AT THE MODERN PANTRY
The Modern Pantry, Anna Hansen’s acclaimed Clerkenwell restaurant, is launching a unique afternoon tea very much in keeping with its signature fusion style. Diners can choose from Newby tea or Caravan coffee which will be served with an exquisite selection of accompaniments such as Tea smoked salmon, avocado & yuzu mayonnaise sandwiches, Green tea scones, gooseberry compote, clotted cream, and Rosewater & sour cherry chocolate brownies.

Right on St John’s Square and with several tables outside, The Modern Pantry has long been the perfect spot to while away an afternoon, and the new afternoon tea menu adds a new dimension to the experience. It available Monday-Friday from 3pm until 5pm and is priced at just £15, or £20 including a glass of Prosecco or a lychee, rose and raspberry bellini.

Afternoon tea at The Modern Pantry is the first in a series of exciting developments for Anna Hansen this year. From 22nd March, the restaurant will be “popping up” for a month at Meza restaurant, during which time she will bring her much-loved eclectic dishes and unusual ingredient combinations to Soho. In June, Anna’s book, The Modern Pantry Cookbook will be published by Ebury, giving Anna fans the chance to recreate some of her legendary dishes such as the Sugar cured prawn omelette and the Chorizo Scotch eggs.

http://www.themodernpantry.co.uk

WEST COUNTRY WINE TRAILS WITH HELPFUL HOLIDAYS
Wine lovers staying in a Helpful Holidays cottage can visit some of the West Country’s top vineyards and receive a £40 discount voucher off a case from online retailer Naked Wines. The family-run agency has around 250 holiday homes in Devon and Cornwall within easy reach of a vineyard sleeping two to 48 guests priced from £154 per week.

You can tour the vineyards, meet the producers, maybe have a meal, taste some wonderful wines and buy a selection to take back and enjoy in the comfort of your own holiday home. Curl up on a squashy sofa by an open log fire or, on warmer days, relax in a sunny, time-forgotten cottage garden with a glass of something chilled and sparkling.

A perfect retreat for couples, the Georgian Bathing House lies beside the tranquil River Dart in South Devon within the 550 acre Sharpham Estate, near Ashprington, which is best known for its small vineyard; prices start from £338 per week. Looking forward to welcoming Helpful Holidays’ guests, Duncan Schwab from Sharpham Vineyard said; “Helpful Holidays have just become even more helpful! By producing a wine trail in Devon and Cornwall, you can now visit and experience some truly wonderful vineyards and taste some fantastic wines while on holiday in the South West”.

Near Penzance in far West Cornwall Helpful Holidays have four new townhouses each sleeping four from £240 per week and The Old Vicarage, a big house for ten from £379 per week, all close to the award winning Polgoon Vineyard. Having successfully produced a range of new classic rosé, white and red wines, Kim Coulson from Polgoon quoted Benjamin Franklin saying, “Wine makes daily living easier, less hurried, with fewer tensions and more tolerance”.

Everyone booking a break with Helpful Holidays in 2011 will receive a £40 discount voucher off a case from Naked Wines (minimum spend £79.99). The online retailer sources the most talented, smaller, independent producers and invests in their viticulture ensuring top quality wines at affordable prices. Delighted to be working with the cottage agency Ben Hopkins, Head of New Business at Naked Wines said: “Helpful Holidays’ cottages are really special... and we've long known that peaceful holidays and great wine go hand-in-hand”.

Nearly 30 places to stay plus 11 vineyards are featured in Helpful Holidays new mini-brochure, Vineyard Trails in Devon and Cornwall. Call 01647 434063 for a free copy or to view all 600 properties in the agency’s portfolio visit www.helpfulholidays.com.

GARRIGAE ANNOUNCES ITS FIRST HOTEL IN PROVENCE L’ABBAYE DE SAINTE CROIX
Award-winning French real estate and hotel resort company, Garrigae has extended its collection into Provence, with the addition of L’Abbaye de Sainte Croix, a lovingly restored and refurbished 12th century abbey nestled between the stunning surrounds of Alpilles and Luberon.
L’Abbaye joins Garrigae’s current portfolio of three charming and distinctive properties in the Languedoc, which have become the benchmark for authentic and sophisticated tourism in the South of France including :
· Les Jardins de Saint Benoît, Vineyard resort & Spa, Corbières
· Port Rive Gauche, Luxury retreat, Marseillan, Bassin de Thau
· Le Convent d’Hérépian, Luxury retreat & Spa, Parc Naturel du Haut Languedoc
Set within 20 hectares of pine forest, the 12th century abbey, complete with original chapel, comprises 25 elegantly appointed guestrooms, premium conference facilities, bar and celebrated restaurant which, using only the freshest local ingredients to create the most sumptuous fare, is a destination for gourmands in itself. L’Abbaye’s elegant terrace and large pool are both excellent suntraps to take in the stunning vistas of the plains of the Salon de Provence from the Camaruge to Sainte Victoire.

L’Abbaye has a long-standing history, which Garrigae will retain by keeping alive its unique spirit through :

· Catherine Bossard whose family acquired and renovated the abbey 28 years ago has joined the Garrigae group and will continue in her role of managing the abbey.
· L’Abbaye de Sainte Croix will continue its long affiliation with Relais & Chateaux, which began back in 1977.
· Garrigae’s principle role will be to focus on the design, decoration, landscape and ambiance
· Garrigae will undertake the marketing & business development and enhance two main activities:
o Authentic & sophisticated holidays for both French & International clients.
o Incentive, private and corporate events, photo shoots and prestigious product launches.

Julien Drouot-l'Hermine, Head of Strategy Garrigae "The abbey fits perfectly into Garrigae’s DNA.
The 12th century stone walls and its surrounding landscape make the destination full of charm and authenticity. The perfect place to relax and celebrate the South of France’s ‘Art de vivre.’”

For further information please visit www.garrigaeresorts.com

ENJOY THE BEST OF BOTH TOWN & COUNTRY
Sister properties Ten Manchester Street London and Wyck Hill House, Cotswolds launch town and country packages

For those looking to combine a visit to the Capital with the beauty of the English countryside, London Marylebone’s Ten Manchester Street and Wyck Hill House in the Cotswolds together have launched Town and Country packages to tempt guests to experience each boutique hotel’s sister property.
Spend £300 or more on a stay at Ten Manchester Street or Wyck Hill House Hotel & Spa and receive one night free at the sister property for visits within the following four months

-OR-

Those staying at either Ten Manchester Street or Wyck Hill House are eligible for a free cigar tasting session at the sister property for visits within the following six months

About Ten Manchester Street, London:
Luxury central London boutique property
Private, sophisticated and contemporary, Ten Manchester Street is a 45 bedroom hotel is complete with a sophisticated Lounge, refined Cigar Terrace for those in the know, and soon to feature a new Champagne bar. With a discreet central London location that attracts a discerning clientele for both business and leisure, Ten Manchester Street is situated just moments from some of London’s main tourist attractions – Madam Tussauds, The Planetarium, the shops of Oxford Street and Marylebone High Street, and the renowned Baker Street.

About Wyck Hill House Hotel & Spa, Cotswolds:
Luxury Cotswold country manor house retreat
Quintessentially English country manor Wyck Hill House Hotel & Spa offers a secluded retreat set in over 100 acres of rolling Cotswold countryside and can be reached in under two hours from London; far enough away from the bustle but not too far to make getting back to the city a strain. Boasting breathtaking views and situated less than two miles from the historic market town of Stow-on-the-Wold.

Wyck Hill House is home to Feature Rooms with four-poster beds, an intimate restaurant serving excellent gourmet British classics, Georgian oak-panelled library and bar with traditional open fires for cosy nights in, a heated outdoor Cigar terrace and a full-service Elemis spa.

At both:
The dedicated Cigar terrace at each property offers cigar aficionados a wide range of hand-rolled Havanas including a selection of Cohiba, Montecristo and Romeo y Julieta cigars along with many other famous marques. A custom-made Hunters & Frankau humidor ensures cigars are kept in perfect condition whilst attentive and gracious staff are there to fulfil guests’ every need.

For each package: proof of stay at sister hotel required, must mention on booking. Offer now available, excluding bank holidays. Packages cannot be used in conjunction with one another or any other offer.

THE LONGER YOU STAY, THE LESS YOU PAY AT FOUR PILLARS HOTELS
Dinner, Bed & Breakfast from just £33.60 per person, per night, Plus Kids Stay & Eat Free!

Four Pillars Hotels has an offer that will put a spring in your step this Spring! From 10th April – 5th May 2011*, the longer guests stay, the more they save – with rates slashed by 10% for 3 night stays, 15% for 4 night stays and 20% for 5 night stays! This year, the Easter Bank Holiday Falls so close to the Royal Wedding / May Bank Holiday that just 3 days off work, affords an 11 day holiday! So spring into action and book your Easter eggstravaganza in the UK from just £33.60 per person, per night, including dinner, bed and breakfast – plus kids stay and eat for free!**

Guests can enjoy an affordable break to some of the most beautiful parts of Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire and The Cotswolds and enjoy a springtime stroll in Tortworth Court’s stunning arboretum, relax in Spa 6 at Cotswold Water Park, or explore the dreaming spires of Oxford from one of the four properties surrounding the city. Whether you’re looking for a break with a ‘blossoming’ romance, or you’re eager for an Easter escape with the family, there’s a Four Pillars break for you.

All six properties offer warm and friendly hospitality, comfortable accommodation and comprehensive facilities. The group is rapidly establishing its properties as prime hotspots for mini breaks and holidays, suitable for families or couples seeking a picturesque staycation. The magnificent Grade II listed Tortworth Court Four Pillars Hotel is a Victorian mansion set in beautiful landscaped grounds, while the Cotswold Water Park Four Pillars Hotel offers contemporary accommodation and extensive spa and leisure facilities in a beautiful lakeside setting. Those seeking a city break need look no further than Oxford for four fantastic properties (including the recently refurbished Oxford Spires Four Pillars Hotel and Oxford Thames Four Pillars Hotel), all with easy access to the city and other local attractions.

For full details and conditions for the Four Pillars Spring Offers, or to book, visit: www.four-spring.co.uk or call 0800 374 692.

* Rates valid Sunday – Thursday from 10th April - 5th May 2011.

** The children staying for free offer is based on a maximum of two children sharing their parents’ room. Free meals will be on the same basis as the package booked by the parents. Free dinner for children up to 12 years will be from the children’s menu. For 13-16 year olds, dinner will be charged as taken. At Cotswold Water Park children sharing their parents’ room must eat before 7pm to qualify for free dinner.

Rates listed are on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis and are per person, per night, based on 2 people sharing a standard room for a minimum of 2 nights. Rates are valid Sunday – Thursday from 11th April – 5th May 2011. Rates are subject to promotional room availability and are only available on selected dates. Applicable to new bookings only. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion.

See www.four-spring.co.uk for full terms and conditions.

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