NEWS 7th NOVEMBER

STRICTLY COME DANCING LIVE 2011 UK TOUR RETURNS FOR AN INCREDIBLE FOURTH YEAR PLAYING THE REPUBLIC OF IRELAND FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER

COLIN JACKSON, PATSY KENSIT, TINA O’BRIEN, PAMELA STEPHENSON, KARA TOINTON AND RICKY WHITTLE ARE FIRST CELEBRITY CONTESTANTS ANNOUNCED TOUR TO BE HOSTED BY ZOE BALL

The first celebrities joining the Strictly Come Dancing 2011 UK Tour have been revealed! Olympic athlete and series runner up in 2005 Colin Jackson will join last year’s runner up Ricky Whittle, as well as this series’ star dancers: actress Patsy Kensit, psychologist Pamela Stephenson, ex-Coronation Street star Tina O’Brien and ex-EastEnder Kara Tointon. Zoe Ball, who came third in the TV series in 2005, will present the live show, keeping the nation’s favourite judges Len Goodman, Craig Revel-Horwood and Bruno Tonioli in order!

Craig Revel-Horwood will also have responsibility for the show’s look and feel as he takes the role of Director for the first time.

Patsy Kensit said: “I love everything about Strictly; the dancing, the beautiful outfits, the live music and the Tour is going to be absolutely amazing - I’m so glad to be joining it. It’s going to be incredible performing each night in front of arena sized audiences – hopefully I won’t get too nervous! I’ve been working so hard on my dancing during the TV series so hopefully it will pay off on tour!”

Kara Tointon said: “I’ve been absolutely overwhelmed by the public support Artem and I have received, or Team Kartem as Bruno calls us! Being on Strictly has been a fantastic experience and I just want to keep dancing for as long as possible which is why I’ve signed up to do the live tour. I’m really looking forward to meeting all the fans and learning some new routines.”

Colin Jackson said: “It was fantastic competing in 2005 and going on to win the Christmas Special in 2006. I haven’t forgotten any of the moves so when I was asked to join the tour I jumped at the chance. It’s going to be a lot of fun but I’m also a very competitive person and I’ll be aiming to win each show on tour!”

Ricky Whittle said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be taking part in the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour. I’ve already dug out my sparkly shirts and started practising my dance moves - I’m hoping to give Colin Jackson a run for his money!”

With over 1 MILLION tickets sold over the past three years, the hugely popular and successful UK arena tour returns in 2011 for the fourth consecutive year, opening at Trent FM Arena Nottingham on 14th January. The multi-million pound show will then visit some of the UK’s biggest entertainment venues, playing the Republic of Ireland for the first time with an exclusive four show run at The o2 Dublin.

Audiences will watch the celebrities and professional dancers competing live for the votes of the judges and as with previous years the audience will have the chance to have their say on who wins the coveted glitter ball trophy as their votes are added to the judges’ scores to select the winner at the end of each show.

Launching at the Nottingham Trent FM Arena on 14th January, the four-week dance spectacular will travel to Motorpoint Arena Sheffield, Wembley Arena, London’s O2, Liverpool’s Echo Arena, The O2 Dublin, The Odyssey in Belfast, The LG Arena at the NEC Birmingham, Manchester Evening News Arena and will finish its run at Glasgow’s SECC on 13th February. Tickets for all these shows are now on sale.

The eighth series of Strictly Come Dancing is currently being broadcast on BBC1 and is attracting over 9 million viewers a week. Previous series have all been huge ratings successes, with audiences for the series’ finales reaching over 11 million. The television format, also known as Dancing With The Stars in the USA, entered the Guinness Book of World Records last year as the world’s most successful reality television show and has been sold by BBC Worldwide to over 35 international broadcasters.

Tickets for STRICTLY COME DANCING THE LIVE TOUR 2011 are on sale now, details below:

14-16 January Nottingham: Trent FM Arena 0844 4124 624

(Friday 14th at 7.30pm, Saturday 15th at 2.30pm and 7.30pm, Sunday 16th at 1.30pm and 6.30pm)

17-18 January Sheffield: Motorpoint Arena 0114 256 5656
(Monday 17th at 7.30pm, Tuesday 18th at 7.30pm)

20-21 January London: Wembley Arena 0844 815 0815
(Thursday 20th at 7.30pm and Friday 21st at 7.30pm)

22-23 January London: O2 0844 856 0202
(Saturday 22nd at 2.30pm and 7.30pm, Sunday 23rd at 1.30pm and 6.30pm)

24-26 January Liverpool: Echo Arena 0844 800 0400
(Monday 24 at 7.30pm, Tuesday 25 at 7.30pm, Wednesday 26 at 7.30pm)

28-30 January The o2 Dublin 0818 719 300
(Friday 28th at 7.30pm, Saturday 29th at 2.30pm and 7.30pm, Sunday at 7.30pm)

1-3 February Belfast: Odyssey Arena 028 9073 9074
(Tuesday 1st at 7.30pm, Wednesday 2nd at 7.30pm, Thursday at 7.30pm)

5-6 February Birmingham: LG Arena at NEC 0844 338 8000
(Saturday 5th at 2.30pm and 7.30pm, Sunday 6th at 1.30pm and 6.30pm)

8-9 February Manchester Evening News Arena 0844 847 8000
(Tuesday 8th at 7.30pm, Wednesday 9th at 7.30pm)

10-13 February Glasgow: SECC 0870 040 4000
(Thursday at 7.30pm, Friday at 7.30pm, Saturday at 2.30pm and 7.30pm, Sunday at 1.30pm and 6.30pm)


Tickets cost; £55 (Gold Circle), £42.50, £35 plus booking fee
Saturday night tickets cost £65 in the Gold Circle.

To book tickets please contact the venue or call 0844 875 8758
For online bookings please visit http://www.ticketzone.co.uk/

THEO PAPHITIS (@theopaphitis) ANNOUNCES THE NAME OF HIS NEW LINGERIE BUSINESS ON TWITTER
In a ground breaking move, Theo Paphitis announced his exciting new business venture on Twitter. Theo conducted a Twitter survey asking his 50,000+ followers what they thought about him making a very exciting business announcement on Twitter. The overwhelming response was a definite yes!

Boux Avenue will launch in Spring 2011 as a fresh and exciting multi-channel shopping experience for lingerie lovers everywhere. Placing an unrivalled emphasis on detail and fit, the inclusive size range and outstanding service both in Boux Avenue stores and at http://www.bouxavenue.com will ensure it’s an irresistible lingerie destination.

Theo’s followers were given a unique advantage to sign up and register at http://www.bouxavenue.com. In total, 2500 £10.00 vouchers were up for grabs. The first 500 followers that signed up won a £10.00 voucher prior to the opening of the online and retail stores. A further 2000 £10.00 vouchers will be on offer via a special prize draw.

“I know that Boux Avenue will offer a fantastic lingerie and nightwear shopping experience for women who are looking for something truly special. This is what women want and will now have, both online and in retail stores nationwide. Boux Avenue will provide outstanding service and a superior fit for all women in a beautiful online and retail environment. I am delighted to be at the forefront of what I believe to be one of the most innovative and exciting lingerie launches.”
Theo Paphitis

For further information, sign up to http://www.bouxavenue.com

Follow Theo Paphitis on @theopaphitis

CARAMEL TO LAUNCH POP UP SHOP AT SELFRIDGES

Luxury children’s wear brand Caramel baby&child are delighted to announce that they will be opening a pop-up shop in Selfridges launching on November 1st.

The pop-up shop will showcase their beautiful new collection of party dresses, fit for a princess, as well as their AW10/11 accessories collection – perfect for keeping the little ones warm this winter.

Selfridges - 400 Oxford Street London W1A 1AB.

THE SWAN LAKE COLLECTION - PARTY DRESSES FIT FOR A PRIMA BALLERINA

The Swan Lake Collection from Caramel Baby&Child is a range of party dresses for A/W10-11 inspired by the romantic ballets of the 19th Century.

An opulent mix of lace, velvets and silks in a palette of black and cream embellished with festive touches of cream and gold, the collection comprises four gorgeous styles including:

Giselle - a silk fairy dress in blush pink with capped sleeves, ruched front panel and elegant tulip shaped skirt – all with an overlay of tuille in antique gold. A seriously cute silhouette featuring tie waist at the back, is a dream for any young girl heading for centre stage at Christmas. Available in ages 3y - 10y.

Swan – tunic style dress with contrasting coloured bow detailing on the shoulder and gathered neckline. Available in gold at Caramel boutiques and a limited edition pink version exclusively for Selfridges. Ages 6m to 10y.

Odette - a linen smock dress with velvet edging and draw-string waist in black. Available in ages 6m - 10y. Odilia - a dropped waist dress in lace with gathered skirt and angelic bell sleeves complete with tie-back waist,
gives this look an on-trend edge for any party and special occasion. Available in ages 3y - 10y.

All styles can be accessorized with a Swan Lake jewelled head-band featuring velvet ribbon, metallic gold and accessorised with a feather bird and velvet tassles. Available for 3 – 10 years (adjustable with ribbon tie).
Prices for the collection are £80 - £180
visit www.caramel-shop.co.uk

WIN £150 TO SPEND AT MOLLY BROWN!

How about an extra £150 to spend at Molly Brown this Christmas? We are offering one lucky facebook fan exactly that!Molly Brown Jewellery makes the perfect gift for all ages; from newborns, to young girls, teens and even mums. With gift guides specifically created for all occasions there are ideal jewellery pieces for every wardrobe, style and event. All Molly Brown jewellery is gift wrapped in sumptuous brand packaging, giving that extra ‘wow’ factor to a truly special keepsake.

So if you haven’t already joined our facebook group, simply sign up today for Molly Brown updates, discussions, tips, and exclusive Molly Brown news. If you are already a fan, don’t worry – you’ll be automatically added to the draw!

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?v=info&ref=profile&id=615060571#/pages/MOLLY-BROWN-LONDON/24438747111?ref=sgm

CHEF JASON ATHERTON LAUNCHES RANGE OF CHOCOLATES EXCLUSIVELY FOR FORTNUM & MASON THIS CHRISTMAS

Fortnum & Mason is delighted to announce that renowned English Michelin Starred chef Jason Atherton has created eight new exclusive chocolate recipes that will be available from 6th November at £10 per 100g.

Five of the new recipes are Jason’s signature recipes and conjure up flavours, scents and memories from Jason’s travels. Jason has also refined three classic flavours inspired by his work in some of the top restaurants all over the world.

Signature Range

• Dark Chocolate Bonbon with Italian Lime and Vodka which is 55% Gran Cru cocoa and is inspired by the famous mojito - Jason’s favourite drink.
• Dark Chocolate Praline with Orange and Cinnamon which is 55% Gran Cru cocoa and uses crushed Indonesian cinnamon bark to bring out the flavour of the Italian oranges – inspired by his travels to Sicily.
• White Chocolate Bonbon with Coconut and Rum. This is a classic combination which Jason wanted to recreate with Cuban rum, inspired by his travels through Miami and the Florida Keys.
• Milk Chocolate Bonbon rolled in Toasted Rice with Coffee and Caramel. This chocolate is 40% Gran Cru cocoa of single estate origin and includes hints of Arabica coffee. The most innovative in the range (and Jason’s favourite), this chocolate was inspired by his love of the Far East and his mother in law’s Asian rice cakes.
• Milk Chocolate Praline with Passion Fruit. This chocolate is 40% Gran Cru cocoa of single estate origin and is inspired by Jason’s love of exotic fruit, in this case South African passion fruit.

Classic Range

• Milk Chocolate Praline with Hazelnuts. This chocolate is 40% Gran Cru cocoa of single estate origin. It is made with hazelnuts from Piedmont and is the favourite chocolate amongst the chefs at Jason’s Kitchen.
• Dark Chocolate Praline with Bronte Pistachio and Caramel. The pistachio is a favourite ingredient of Jason’s, one that he has been using in his desserts from the beginning of his career. This classic flavour combination is truly Italian and is made with 55% Gran Cru cocoa.
• Milk Chocolate Praline with Coffee. This chocolate is 40% Gran Cru cocoa of single estate origin and is a delectable classic that invokes Jason’s memories of relaxation and sitting down in front of the fire with a brandy.

Available in the loose chocolate section on the Ground Floor of Fortnum & Mason and will be available in Jason’s new restaurant in February, the eight new flavours are the perfect foodie gift or indulgent treat for oneself. The chocolates can be beautifully packaged in Fortnum & Mason ballotins for the receiver to unwrap and lose themselves in luxurious, decadent flavours.

In Store Tasting

Jason Atherton will be hosting a chocolate tasting to celebrate the launch of his new range of chocolates on the Ground Floor of Fortnum & Mason on Saturday 6th November 12pm – 3pm.

BUILD-A-BEAR WORKSHOP® DEBUTS PUDSEY’S BEARY BEST FRIEND… BLUSH BEAR

Build-A-Bear Workshop teams up with BBC Children in Need to give Guests the opportunity to make their beary own Pudsey Bear and new for 2010, Blush Bear

Blush Bear, Pudsey's Beary Best Friend, is making a very special appearance this Autumn at Build-A-Bear Workshop®.

Pudsey Bear is now available at Build-A-Bear Workshop stores nationwide, only this time he is not alone! Pudsey is bringing his furbulous friend along with him.

Pudsey fans can now make their own BBC Children in Need Blush Bear mascot or Pudsey Bear at any of 50 Build-A-Bear Workshop stores across the UK, with £5 from each sale going directly back to the BBC Children in Need Appeal.

New for this year is Blush Bear who is Pudsey’s ‘BBF’, she likes playing the drums and dancing and is on hand to help Pudsey with his busy fundraising schedule, lending him a well needed paw when he needs it. Blush loves to have fun and comes with magnetic paws to help her cover her rosy cheeks.

Pudsey can be dressed in a newly designed t-shirt and furbulous spotty mini boxer shorts, whilst Blush can be adorned with the t-shirt as well as a pawsome spotty ra ra skirt. An additional £1 from the sale of the t-shirt, boxers and ra ra skirt will also be donated to the charity.

In 2009, Build-A-Bear Workshop donated a bear-illiant £100,000 to BBC Children in Need through the sale of Pudsey Bear and this year they’re hoping to do even better with the addition of Blush Bear. Every penny raised helps to make a positive difference to the lives of disadvantaged children and young people across the UK.

Build-A-Bear Workshop is based on the premise that nearly everyone, regardless of age, has a special fondness for stuffed animals. When Guests visit Build-A-Bear Workshop stores, they enter a light-hearted teddy-bear-themed environment. Guests will now be able to make and stuff their beary own Pudsey and Blush Bear, add a heart – a Build-A-Bear Workshop trademark – and if they choose, dress them in pawsome outfits.

Guests can also play together online for free with their new furry friends at buildabearville.com®, a virtual world stuffed with fun. Guests who purchase a Pudsey or Blush Bear can also register them at buildabearville.com.

“We are absolutely delighted to be partnered with such a worthy cause like BBC Children in Need again and with the addition of Blush Bear we hope this year supersedes the previous year’s campaigns”, said Build-A-Bear Workshop Founder and Chief Executive Bear Maxine Clark. Giving back to the community and helping children and families is a core value at Build-A-Bear Workshop and is at the very heart of our brand”.

“We are very excited to be working with Build-A-Bear Workshop for the third year running. Children are at the heart of our charity and it’s wonderful for kids and adults alike to be able to make their very own Pudsey and Blush Bear mascot”, says Carrie Green, Partnership Manager for BBC Children in Need.

Guests can support the cause by purchasing a Pudsey or Blush Bear from any Build-A-Bear Workshop store nationwide or from the company’s website at www.buildabear.co.uk.

Pudsey Bear will retail at £15; Pudsey Bear t-shirt at £5; and the Boxer Shorts at £4.50 each. Blush Bear will retail at £15; Blush Bear t-shirt at £5; and the spotty ra ra skirt at £4.50 each.

MASTERCHEF LIVE RETURNS FOR 2010 WITH CELEBRITY WINNER, LISA FAULKNER

Following the hugely successful debut last year, MasterChef Live returns to London’s Olympia from 12th to 14th November with this year’s Celebrity MasterChef Winner, Lisa Faulkner attending.

Lisa will make her first MasterChef Live appearance. Judge Gregg Wallace said: “If you’ve been enjoying watching Celebrity MasterChef, you’ll love to see Lisa cook in front of a live audience – she’s a fantastic cook and she is a must see for any MasterChef fan. Cooking live doesn’t get tougher than this!”

The show is a must-visit for all foodies and fans of MasterChef. The focus for MasterChef Live will be on entertainment, great food and experiences including the unique opportunity to have-a-go in interactive workshops and the iconic Invention Test. Visitors will be able to watch theatre sessions hosted by John Torode and Gregg Wallace and pick up tips from demonstrations by past winners or dine at the MasterChef Pop Up Restaurant to savour some of the infamous MasterChef dishes.

On top of the amazing line up of MasterChef content there is a vast choice of delicious food and drink to taste and try and wealth of expertise on offer. TV’s Rick Stein and James Martin will be cooking live at the show in the Chefs’ Theatre sponsored by Sainsbury’s. Rick will be focusing on some of his favourite cuisine from Malaysia and James will be giving top tips on creating great dishes for winter entertaining.

Once again MasterChef Live will be home to London’s finest indoor farmers’ market – showcasing over 120 producers from all over the UK. Slow Food, Great Taste and foodies favourite Foodloversbritain.com will all have a collection of the very best producers of artisan food and drink.

New this year, MasterChef Live runs alongside The Wine Show where you can learn how to pick out the perfect wines in tasting sessions at the Drinks Tasting Theatre sponsored by Liebherr with celebrity experts including Oz Clarke and Tim Atkin.

John Torode said: “This is the most exciting food event in London, not just for MasterChef fans – although they’ll love it – but for anyone who loves food and cooking. You can meet producers, go shopping for the food, watch demonstrations and then go home and try out new recipes yourself.”

Key features at MasterChef Live include:

The Invention Test sponsored by Plenty - where aspiring MasterChefs can have a go in a live version of the test, preparing a dish from a list of given ingredients to see if they’ve got what it takes to be a MasterChef. Previous MasterChef finalists and winners will help guide visitors along the way and recommend the most impressive dishes that John and Gregg should taste and judge.

MasterChef Cook-offs see champions from previous series compete head-to-head in the Chefs’ Theatre sponsored by Sainsbury’s. James Nathan, Dhruv Baker and Mat Follas will all be there across the three days competing against each other.

MasterChef Appearances and Demos in the Chefs’ Theatre are your chance to see the legendary Michel Roux Jr prepare his classic dish from Le Gavroche – Omelette Rothschild, while John Torode and Gregg Wallace will be teaching you how to make the perfect three-course lunch – crab omelette, the perfect steak with béarnaise sauce with a sticky toffee pudding to complete the menu.

The Restaurant Experience sponsored by Hardys will house the MasterChef Pop-Up Restaurant alongside some of London’s top eateries (including, Roast, Blue Elephant and Theo Randall at the Intercontinental.) The MasterChef Pop-Up is a new addition to the immensely popular Restaurant Experience and will be serving a dish from each of the four 2010 series winners.

The Great Taste Awards have their fabulous Tasting Theatre where Nigel Bardon and Bob Farrand from the Guild of Fine Food present a range of products, teaching you how to taste the standard required to obtain a gold standard accolade. Gold star producers will be alongside them so you can purchase your favourite gold star produce.

Slow Food UK returns to the show for 2010 - the inspirational organisation that believes food is a common language and that good, clean, environmentally respectful and fair food is a universal right.

Foodloversbritain.com Fair is where you will find the best of local and regional food and drink producers.

To buy tickets for MasterChef Live which also includes entry to The Wine Show, call 0844 581 1361 or visit www.mastercheflive.com

Tickets prices cost from £20.50 with special packages including tickets with Theatre seats costing from £26.50; from £52.00 for the Perfect Dining and Shopping Experience; £68.50 for the Invention Test package; and £90 for the Ultimate VIP Package.

KINETIC ARTISTS, LAIKINGLAND EXHIBIT AT THE CONRAN SHOP AS PART OF ‘HANDCRAFTED IN BRITAIN’

The Conran Shop Chelsea will be exhibiting the work of Kinetic artists, Laikingland from 15 November – 15 December 2010 as part of its permanent selling exhibition called ‘Handcrafted in Britain.’ Laikingland is built around the notion of playfulness and represents an interest in narrative, humour and craftsmanship creating beautifully crafted kinetic objects.

Martin Smith and Nick Regan are the co-founders of Laikingland have been friends since they were children. The name of their company comes from the local Yorkshire slang 'Are you laiking out?' meaning are you coming out to play. Nick and Martin hope that by creating designs around these themes that they will encourage everyday playfulness in the lives of their customers.
Martin has been a kinetic artist for 15 years and the Applause Machine began as a congratulatory gift given to his friend Nick when he got married. Nick is a mechanical engineer now living and working in the Netherlands where he recognised the growing trend for objects that add craftsmanship and humour to the home. In 2007 they set up a partnership initially to put the Applause Machine into small batch production.

All the parts required for this and for subsequent pieces were sourced locally around West Yorkshire where the company is based and put together by a part time workforce made up of local jewellers, artists and craftsmen.

Since then they have produced a series of other kinetic pieces such as Fingers by Nik Ramage and Storm in a Tea Cup by John Lumbus and have shown at 100% Design and at the Milan Salone. Galleries that show their work include Moss in New York and The Frozen Fountain in Amsterdam.

Background:

The below craftsmen will be featured at the Conran Shop Chelsea from January 2011

· Barry Stedman – ceramicist – 31 January- 27 February 2011
· Joanna Gilmour – basketmaker - 28 Ferbruary – 27 March 2011
· Kaori Tatebayashi – ceramicist – 28 March – 27 April 2011
· James and Till Waters – ceramicists – 28 April - 27 May 2011
· Stewart Hearn – glassblower – 28 May – 27 June 2011
· Pauline Monkcom – ceramicist – 28 June – 27 July 2011
· Lisa Bech – basketmaker – 28 July – 27 August 2011

THE FABULOUS HOMEWORKS CHRISTMAS SALE

The fabulous Homeworks Christmas sale returns for its third year at the 20th Century Theatre in Notting Hill on Thursday 25th and Friday 26th November. Featuring all the usual great designs and lovingly made items, there will be everything from Indian block printed children’s clothes to Jamaican influenced textiles and cushions. Homeworks is a showcase of an eclectic range of unique, original and innovative gifts, many handmade or upcycled.

This community of 28 small start-ups as well as established designers are the antithesis of mass market items or crafts for crafts sake. Perfect Christmas shopping for those who want to find original and well made gifts, items for sale include cards, children’s clothes, scarves, hats, cushions, jewellery, and ceramics. Exhibitors include Jo Gordon (http://www.jogordon.com/), Thornback and Peel (http://www.thornbackandpeel.co.uk/) and Twisted Twee (http://www.twistedtwee.co.uk/). All are part of the Homeworks group which came together with a love of designing and making. These ladies all live within a stone’s throw of each other, working from home they help and support each other’s creative endeavors producing unique and special items for sale. Perfect for filling all those Christmas stockings.

http://www.thisishomeworks.blogspot.com/

GET THE FEEL-GOOD FACTOR THIS CHRISTMAS WITH ETHICAL JUST GOT FABULOUS

A unique shopping experience at 20th Century Theatre, Notting Hill Saturday 4 December (10am-6pm) & Sunday 5 December (11am-5pm)

Bringing together a host of boutique ethical brands, all showcased over two days on the first weekend of December, Ethical Just Got Fabulous makes its Notting Hill debut at London's 20th Century Theatre. Britain shows it has got plenty of ethical talent with a brand line-up that includes award-winning designer Izzy Lane, Livia Firth’s Eco Age boutique and Bottetop, famous for its bestselling bag collaboration with Mulberry.

Supported by Magic FM and Champagne Lanson, shoppers will be able to browse a unique selection of Christmas gifts, from clothing, accessories, homewares and jewellery to handpicked stocking fillers. Visitors will be treated to live jazz, mulled wine and a raffle for a chance to win a Fabulous Christmas Hamper worth £1,000. Proceeds from the raffle go directly to Magic 105.4’s Cash for Kids, a charity which supports disadvantaged children within London.

Fairtrade to the core, Ethical Just Got Fabulous provides a glamorous platform for Britain’s aspiring ethical stars. A not-for-profit company working to bring ethical shopping to the forefront of consumers’ minds, Ethical Just Got Fabulous showcases a host of brands that embody both fair trade principles and essential style. At the same time, the event provides a unique opportunity to increase routes to market for exhibitors, raising their brand profile among industry figures, buyers and press through a private preview evening and Champagne Lanson Reception. Offering a new shopping experience for consumers and retailers alike,

Doors open on Saturday 4th December 10am - 6pm and Sunday 5th December 11am – 5pm and it's free entry for all. So why not pop down and get Christmas wrapped up the fabulous way!

http://WWW.ETHICALJUSTGOTFABULOUS.COM

PHAIDON PRESS: EVENT
René Redzepi – NOMA book event
Where: Freemasons Hall, London
When: 6pm Friday, 12 November 2010

To celebrate the release of his new book Noma, René Redzepi will be appearing at the Freemasons Hall in London, Friday 12 November.

Noma: Time and Place in Nordic Cuisine, is an exclusive insight into the food philosophy and creativity of chef René Redzepi and his Copenhagen restaurant, Noma, recognized as the Best Restaurant in the World at the World's 50 Best Restaurants Awards 2010.

Featuring over 90 recipes, Noma: Time and Place in Nordic Cuisine provides a unique understanding of what Redzepi refers to as 'The Perfect Storm': the maelstrom of operating at the cutting edge of international gastronomy using only locally sourced ingredients.

Also includes over 200 specially commissioned photographs showing finished dishes, the local ingredients, the restaurant's suppliers and the inspiring Nordic landscape.

Tickets, £15 ticket only or £38 (including free copy of Noma)

Available from: http://www.seetickets.com/Tour/NOMA-RENE-REDZEPI

Books to be collected at the venue.

The talk will be followed by a book-signing with René Redzepi.

Doors open at 17:30 and the talk begins at 18:30.

GARDENERS' WORLD AWARD WINNERS 2010 ANNOUNCED
The nation’s best ‘Value for Money’ crop has been named as the runner bean, according to Gardeners’ World magazine in this year’s Gardeners’ World 2010 Awards. With thousands of new gardeners starting to grow their own and looking for tasty and reliable crops, the awards answer some of gardeners’ biggest questions, from the best rose for scent to the best plant to benefit bees to most effective solution for aphids.

While runner beans were ahead of their competitor crops with 24% of votes in the Best value for money category, courgettes were a close second, while the appropriately named Gardener’s Delight was named Tastiest Tomato with 40% of the votes cast due to its ‘reliability, large crops and sweet, delicious fruits.’ Meanwhile rhubarb was named Most trouble-free crop due to its robustness and the fact it attracts few pests.

The awards, now in their second year, attracted more than 4,000 votes from readers of http://www.gardenersworld.com.

Other findings included:

· There was no split personality in the vote for Top rose for spectacular scent with the pink Gertrude Jekyll getting 23% of all votes cast, more than double its nearest rival.

· Meanwhile the viola and pansy was named Best plant for bedding with 20% of all votes cast, fending off the pelargonium (17%) and petunia (12%).

· The Acer griseum was named Favourite small tree with 20% of all votes, followed by the Lilac with 13%.

· Gardeners generally favoured organic solutions to tackle blight disease by growing tomatoes in a greenhouse and using resistant varieties.

· Lavender was the clear winner of the Best plant for bees category.

According to Adam Pasco, editor of Gardeners’ World magazine: “Our annual Awards provide a great insight into many aspects of gardening – from the best plants, flowers and crops to the ways we attract birds and wildlife, or control pests and diseases. With over 4,000 votes cast, it’s fascinating hearing from so many gardeners from across the country, and learning from their experiences.”

The full results are available in November’s Gardeners’ World , on sale now, priced at £3.60

About the Awards
The vote took place on http://www.bbcgardenersworld.com between April and June 2010 and attracted more than 4,000 votes.

TOM AIKENS ADDS SEASONAL FLAVOUR TO NEW MENU AT TOM’S KITCHEN SOMERSET HOUSE

Following the hugely successful opening of Tom’s Kitchen Somerset House http://www.tomskitchen.co.uk/somersethouse/, Tom Aikens is set to delight diners at this leading London venue with the launch of a new menu featuring a number of seasonal additions.

Fish and vegetables flavoured with herbs and spices are a key feature of the starter selection, including Celeriac Remoulade and Butternut Squash, Honey and Sage Soup served with sourdough toast, whilst Deep Fried Squid with coriander, chilli, paprika and aioli dip and Peppered Goats Cheese Salad add a hint of heat and spice to colder days and nights.

Follow with winter warming main courses which include Venison Casserole with cranberries and root vegetable mash or Slow Roast Pork Belly with paprika chickpeas. Made all the more delectable when served with side dishes including Mashed Root Vegetables, Buttered Spinach and Braised Red Cabbage.

Fans of Tom’s signature dishes can enjoy classic British fare including Rhug Estate Cumberland Sausages with mash and onion gravy, Beef Burgers made with 28 day aged Scotch premier beef and served with Big Chips, and Beer Battered Line Caught Cod.

For those with a sweet tooth, save the best for last with a selection of desserts that make the most of seasonal produce in a range of British classics including Apple and Blackberry Crumble with vanilla custard, Apple Tarte Fine with cinnamon ice cream, Milk Chocolate Mousse with confit plums and sorbet and Griottine Cherry Crème Brûlée.

Commenting on the new menu, Tom Aikens said, “Seasonality and the freshest produce remain key influences when developing new recipes and menus. Since opening Tom’s Kitchen at Somerset House I have worked to ensure we continue to offer the finest British fare. We have a range of signature dishes which continue to feature on the menu, while the changing seasons offer a great opportunity to change and diversify this offer and I hope diners will enjoy the new menu as much as I have enjoyed creating it.”

NEW LOOK FOR THE FIFTH FLOOR RESTAURANT

This autumn, the Fifth Floor Restaurant at Harvey Nichols unveils a brand new contemporary look following a refurbishment. To complement the new look, Jonas Karlsson, Fifth Floor Executive Chef has created new A La Carte and Market menus, while Marjorie Cropp, the Fifth Floor Sommelier has chosen a new and exciting selection of biodynamic wines to feature on the restaurant’s extensive wine list.

The main dining space has been opened up and extended to let the light flood the room. Artwork by Kieran Crowder, large canvases with a wealth of colour and texture create drama and details such as the new reception area, new glassware, and menu covers complete the look. During the day, reclaimed American walnut tabletops with place mats give the space a more relaxed and informal feel, a perfect fit for Jonas’s popular Market Menu, which makes full use of the Harvey Nichols Foodmarket produce. The menu is also excellent value, priced at £19.50 for two courses and £24.50 for three with several choices for each course.

In the evening, Swedish Orrefors crystal candleholders on each table give off a soft glow, creating a more intimate and elegant atmosphere in which to enjoy Jonas’s A La Carte dishes. Starters include: Grilled Crottin de Chavignol tarte fine, Puy lentils, baby beetroot, radish leaves; Roasted diver scallops, braised chicken wings, celeriac purée, hazelnut jus and Smoked and pot roasted squab pigeon, quince purée, chocolate jus. Main courses feature: Monkfish 'ossobuco' style, braised baby gem, sweet potato purée, gremolata crouton; Blythburg free range pork belly, boudin noir, baked apples and sauerkraut, sage jus and Fillet of beef, fricassee of wild mushrooms and foie gras, potato galette and truffle jus. To finish, chose from Roasted royal gala apple mille feuille, apple cider coulis, Sherry baba, Italian black figs, Chantilly cream or Vanilla rice pudding, poached and caramelised pineapple. The A La Carte menu is available at lunch and dinner, priced at £35 for two courses and £40 for three.

The extensive wine list at Fifth Floor Restaurant now features a brand new range of 30 biodynamic wines and Champagnes. Produced in harmony with the earth’s natural rhythm, biodynamic growers work the soils by old-fashioned methods and value the moon’s position and astronomical cycles, going one step beyond organic production. In recent years, some of the internationally renowned estates have started producing biodynamic wines with great success and Majorie Cropp is excited to be able to present these wines to Harvey Nichols diners. Champagnes include Jérôme Prevost, La Closerie Les Béguines, Pinot Meunier; whites include Meursault, Domaine des Comtes Lafon, Burgundy, France, 2005 and reds Flor de Pingus, Ribera del Duero, Spain, 2008.

In addition, Harvey Nichols own range of wines is greatly expanding this autumn and the new list (also available to buy from the Harvey Nichols Wine Shops) will include: Harvey Nichols Bourgogne Blanc, Viré-Clessé, Chardonnay, Burgundy, France, 2008, Harvey Nichols Côtes-du-Rhône Villages, Plan de Dieu, Rhône Valley, 2008 and Harvey Nichols Tawny Port, 10 Years Old, Portugal.

The new Fifth Floor Restaurant is open now. To book a table, please call 020 7235 5250 or via website: http://www.harveynichols.com

Fifth Floor Restaurant
Harvey Nichols, 109-125 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7RJ

AUTHENTIC NEAPOLITAN PIZZA COMES TO NOTTING HILL GATE
Pizza Metro, the authentic, Neapolitan, family run pizzeria, is now delighting customers with its first west London site. Pizza Metro first opened its doors in Battersea in 1993 and was among the first to serve the infamous meter long pizza. The restaurant quickly became renowned for top quality, simple Italian food and a lively, Italian atmosphere to match, making it difficult to book a table. The success of the Battersea restaurant led to chef patron, Diego Palladino, opening the second restaurant in Notting Hill Gate this autumn.

Pizza Metro has developed a reputation for its fantastic social and party dining with the meter long pizzas. Each pizza can hold up to four different toppings and are designed to share with friends and family in a relaxed environment with excellent Italian wines. Pizza Metro’s food philosophy is all about the best ingredients and a fresh approach.

The menu at the new Notting Hill Gate restaurant is consistent with the Battersea restaurant and features classics including Prosciutto e Funghi, Margherita and Salame e Gorgonzola as well as popular new additions such as the Portobello with mozzarella, mixed mushrooms, truffle oil, wild rocket, and Grana Padano. Alternatively try Diego Palladino’s favourite, aptly named Diego’s, with a Mozzarella, tomato, salamé, buffalo ricotta, rocket and basil topping. There is also a wide variety of antipasti, pasta, fish and meat dishes to choose from, including Spaghetti alle Vongolé (Scialatielli with king prawns, mussels, clams, squid, garlic, cherry tomatoes and parsley), Polletto Diavoletto (Chicken breast topped with mozzarella and Parma ham served with potatoes in a chilli tomato sauce) and Orata alla griglia (Grilled sea bream served with potatoes, carrots and green beans).

There are many excellent value wines to be enjoyed which perfectly complement the menu. The house wines include a 2009 Angelo Bianco and Rossi from Sicily. The wine list features a good number of mid range wines such as a 2009 Gavi di Gavi Le Meirana, Broglia from Piemonte, a 2008 Sauvignon Blanc, Marco Felluga Collio from Friuli and a 2007 Péppoli Chianti Classico, Antinori from Tuscany. For those visiting for lunch or wishing to sample different wines with each course there is also a selection of half bottles available.

The restaurant also has a semi-private dining room which seats approximately 20, perfect for a birthday party or intimate celebration. The interior of the restaurant is bright and welcoming with a hand painted mural on the main wall. The remaining walls are scattered with vintage Italian photographs and posters giving a traditional warm Italian welcome and providing the perfect setting for lively conversation, fantastic food and excellent wines!

Notes to Editor
Address:
Pizza Metro, Notting Hill Gate
147 -149 Notting Hill Gate
London
W11 3LF
020 7727 8877

Opening Hours:

Pizza Metro, Notting Hill Gate
Mon to Sun 12pm to 11pm

The restaurant has a 100 seat capacity and is available for private parties and also has a special children’s party package.

www.pizzametropizza.com

HELP IS AT HAND FROM SAINSBURY’S BAKING EXPERTS

For one day only, Sainsbury’s baking agony aunts will man the UK’s first dedicated helpline for first time bakers or victims of previous cake baking disasters to coincide with Stir up Sunday - 21st November.

Traditionally a day used to bake the family Christmas cake, Sainsbury’s is encouraging bakers across the UK to get baking, safe in the knowledge that help is at hand to produce Christmas cakes and puddings to delight the whole family.

Phone 020 7695 6191/2 or log on to http://www.facebook.com/sainsburys on the 21st November to get expert advice from a select committee of baking ‘agony aunts’ who will be able to provide answers to your festive baking dilemmas, suggest shortcuts and share priceless tips used in their own kitchens.

DEBENHAMS GOES DIGITAL – LAUNCH OF DEBENHAMS.IE

Thursday 4th November, 2010

Debenhams today (Thursday 4th November, 2010) announced the launch of Debenhams.ie, the retailer’s new Irish online store. This virtual department store marks an exciting development for fashionistas and shopaholics around the country, bringing the entire Debenhams product range right to everyone’s doorstep.

For the first time, favourite Designer at Debenhams brands in homewares, womenswear, lingerie, menswear and childrenswear and big name brands in beauty and sports are now available online. Fashion from Rocha.John Rocha, H by Henry Holland, Butterfly by Matthew Williamson, J by Jasper Conran, Betty Jackson.Black, Star by Julien Macdonald and Principles by Ben De Lisi as well as beauty from Chanel, Dior and Guerlain are available to more Irish customers than ever before direct to their doorstop or delivered through click and collect to their nearest store.

The High Street retailer is also offering free delivery until Sunday 21st November – an incentive to get clicking straight away. Following this special offer, the delivery cost for all purchases is set at a recession-busting €5, regardless of the size of the purchase.

To make shopping online with Debenhams.ie even more enjoyable and hassle-free, customers can return online stock in store as well as via the website. Shoppers will benefit from their own account that keeps track of previously viewed items, suggests other relevant products and a weekly mailer highlighting the latest offers and events in store and online.

Debenhams.ie has been much anticipated among Ireland’s fashion lovers, with the online site offering a host of Debenhams brands not available in all stores. Top lines including H! by Henry Holland, Butterfly by Matthew Williamson, Star by Julien Macdonald, Principles by Ben De Lisi, B by Ted Baker and Pearce ll Fionda.

Designer children’s brands Junior J by Jasper Conran, Baker by Ted Baker, Butterfly by Matthew Williamson and Rocha.little Rocha, as well as Debenhams’ own label BlueZoo will feature on the website, ensuring children all over Ireland are right on trend this autumn / winter.

Budding interior designers are catered for with homeware ranges including Butterfly Home by Matthew Williamson; a collection that embodies Williamson’s own interior décor style featuring bright textiles and interesting patterns, House and Home by Lisa Stickley; a charming, contemporary range, and BDL by Ben De Lisi, using De Lisi’s own home and French bulldogs as inspiration.

Cosmetic favourites Chanel, Dior, Clinique, Clarins, Bare Minerals and the exclusive Smashbox amongst others will now be available to grooming gods and goddesses from Galway to Gorey, courtesy of Debenhams.ie. Debenhams Beauty Club members will be able to collect points on all online beauty and fragrance purchases.

Debenhams’ Sales Director for Ireland, Chris Paton commented: “Thousands of products are now available to thousands of new customers throughout Ireland. We know Ireland is leading the way when it comes to dot com and our ROI move further underlines our love of online. We are excited about bringing our unique designer mix to more people in Ireland than ever before”.

The Debenhams.ie launch comes hot on the heels of the launch of Debenhams’ interactive online television channel. Offering exclusive behind-the-scenes footage and interviews from photo shoots, Debenhams TV also gives customers behind-the-scenes looks at fashion shows and exclusive interviews with designers such as Ben de Lisi, Henry Holland and Matthew Williamson.

TWO MILLION WOMEN LIKELY TO ‘SNAP’ UP A DOUBLE DRESS DISASTER THIS PARTY SEASON... AND END UP GOING HOME EARLY!

British women go to unnecessary lengths to avoid ‘same outfit’ scenarios

New research released today from Kenco Eco Refill has revealed that nearly a fifth of women would rather traipse all the way home and don a different dress than be seen in the same outfit as a fellow Christmas party goer. And with one in three women admitting they’ve experienced a ‘double dress disaster’ – it’s likely that this party season, two million[1] <#_ftn1> women will waste a journey – and an outfit – in the quest to look good, adding to the 900,000 tonnes[2] <#_ftn2> of shoes and clothes thrown away in the UK each year.

Shockingly, returning home to “swap-a-frock” is not the only alternative women choose – with 5% resorting to hiding in the loos and 4% even asking their clone to leave the party. Other drastic actions adopted by the style conscious include leaving the party entirely (8%) or wearing their coat all night (16%). The more savvy admit to carrying a spare dress in their handbag, or stalking on Facebook to check out their rivals’ outfits in advance.

Luckily, fashion guru Mica Paris has teamed up with Kenco Eco Refill, the experts in reducing & reusing, to encourage women up and down the country to SWAP instead of SHOP this Christmas – helping to give old clothes a new lease of life as well as reducing wardrobe waste. Mica says: “Being spotted in the same outfit as someone else can totally ruin your festive party fun – we’ve all been there! Swapping your unwanted clothes with friends and colleagues and giving an existing outfit a new twist is a great way to update your wardrobe (and avoid spending too much cash) after all, one girl’s trash is another girl’s treasure.”

Mica Paris’ clothes swapping tips

· Why not reduce your wardrobe waste by hosting a clothes swapping party for your friends and family. Remember, one girls trash is another girls treasure!

· Sift through your wardrobe and find at least one item of quality clothing your willing to part with. The better the item you donate, the better the item you’re likely to get in exchange!

· Accessorising is a great way to give old clothes a new lease of life, so remember to spruce up an outfit with belts, scarves and jewellery

· Invite as many people as possible – the more people that show up, the more clothing there is to swap!

· Clothes swapping is a great way to update your wardrobe for free and reduce wardrobe waste – so enjoy it!

Kenco’s Christmas Swap-a-Frock

To help women get the perfect dress for less this Christmas and reduce their wardrobe, Kenco Eco Refill and Mica Paris are launching Kenco’s Christmas Swap-a-Frock in Manchester on Saturday 6th November.

“The Christmas party season is the perfect time to clear out your wardrobe and make space for some fabulous new items. And what better way to do it than to indulge in some retail therapy without the price tag, and the carbon footprint! If you’re in Manchester and want to get your hands on a ‘new’ outfit for your party, head to the Triangle for a coffee and a spot of swapping. Or, why not log on to http://www.facebook.com/kenco to find out more about the clothes swapping event,” says Toby Smart, brand manager, Kenco.

No clothes will go without a home – any unswapped clothes will be donated to Dress for Success, a charity which helps women get back into the workplace.

[1] <#_ftnref1> Based on census, female population of 30.2 million

[2] <#_ftnref2> GreenUsesForWaste.co.uk

TACKLING GOURMET BURGERS AND BEER THE REAL WAY
Head to gbk and take home a piece of New Zealand
Gourmet Burger Kitchen (gbk), are supporting their good friends at Steinlager to bring you their most mouth watering meal deal yet – a burger, Steinlager beer and your very own piece of New Zealand for just £6.95. Yes, really!

It’s hard to beat the delicious burger and ice cold beer combination, but gbk and Steinlager PURE are giving it a go! Available to use in restaurants 7 days a week from November 1st until December 5th, simply download the beer and burger voucher from http://www.gbk.co.uk. Present it at your nearest participating gbk http://www.fluidlondon.co.uk/venuegroupmap.aspx?ChainID=123 restaurant where you’ll be rewarded with a big juicy 100% Aberdeen beef burger and a thirst quenching, ice cold bottle of Steiny PURE for just £6.95 – a Kiwi match made in heaven!

For any customer ordering a Steiny at gbk from November 1st until December 5th, you’ll also receive a special beer mat with a unique code printed on it. Once you’ve nailed your beer and burger, race home and log onto http://www.steinlager.co.nz, register your code and you’ll be allocated your very own square meter patch of Kiwi paradise – all yours until July 2012. At the end of the promotion, everyone who’s secured their piece of New Zealand will be entered into a prize draw to win a trip for two to visit your own piece of land, down under.

For those looking to celebrate New Zealand’s summer season whilst fighting off the UK’s winter chill, tuck into the Barbecue burger. This monster 6oz patty is topped with lashings of smokey barbecue sauce and layers of salad, mayonnaise & relish - making it the perfect accompaniment for your silky, smooth Steinlager beer.

And if you don't want a Steiny PURE you can indulge in the same deal washed down with a 175ml glass of gbk’s fine house wines or a soft drink, but there will be no piece of New Zealand for those who aren’t brave enough to take on the beer and burger challenge.

What’s more, gbk are even giving you the chance to do some celeb spotting whilst you’re munching through the menu. As the New Zealand All Blacks rugby team touchdown in the UK for their autumn tour this month, and with gbk as one of their favorite haunts – it might be your chance to see one of the all mighty players!

Available at all gbk restaurants UK wide, this incredible burger and beer offer is available from 1st November until 5th December, so hurry and enjoy your slice of Kiwi culture!

Click here for a list of GBK restaurants http://www.gbk.co.uk/find-a-restaurant

Voucher Terms and Conditions:

· Valid November 1st – December 5th 2010
· Eat in only
· Excludes build your own burgers and the Kiwiburger
· Main course salad can be ordered instead of a burger
· Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer
· 1 voucher per diner
· Valid UK only and excludes the O2 after 6pm

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