Do you have a rare interesting, unseen, inspirational or amazing object, old, or new with a great story to tell?

Dorling Kindersley are producing a phenomenal book of wonders that will feature a vast array of astonishing items that add something to the world we live in.Whether it’s the thing itself, such as Jimi Hendrix's burnt guitar, or what the item represents, such as Edison's light bulb, everything featured in the book will be there to astound, impress and tell a fascinating story.We're giving you the opportunity to be a part of this incredible project. We want you to tell us about your object and why its story or what it represents is so extraordinary and makes life worth living. The most unique and inspirational objects will be shortlisted and then an timate winner will feature within the book when it's published.To enter you need to email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it with an image of your object and a maximum of 100 words on what makes it so worthy of a place in this fantastic new book. The competition closes at midnight, Wednesday 28th January.

FEELING CHILLY? WARM-UP WITH A LIMITED EDITION CHILLI CHOCOLATE BLOCK FROM THORNTONS

We cod all do with something to warm us up during this long, dark winter and help get rid of those January blues. Luckily, Thorntons is releasing a limited edition Chilli Chocolate Block, which will spice up even the coldest of days. The overtones of intense, single origin, Mexican dark chocolate, perfectly complements the subtle warmth of the real chilli infusion.Keith Hurdman Thorntons Master Chocolatier, says: “The Thorntons Chilli Chocolate block is our first ever limited edition Chocolate Block, so we have put a lot of work into developing the delicious exotic flavour to make it just-right. The chilli notes are subtle, yet warming as we’ve infused the cocoa butter ourselves with real chillis to make sure we’ve got the taste just right.“

The Chilli Chocolate Block, which comes in stylish, bright red packaging, is the perfect size to fit in your coat pocket or to pop into your handbag. It provides a treat for yourself and will warm up any miserable January day - the perfect way to take the edge off of the cold this winter. Available in Thorntons stores across the UK and online at www.thorntons.co.uk from 13th January, the limited edition Chili Chocolate Block is only available for a few months and whilst stocks last (RRP £1.79).The fl Thorntons Chocolate Block range is available in Thorntons stores and from www.thorntons.co.uk (RRP £1.79 - £1.99 per bar).

The range includes 19 other mouth-watering flavours such as Orange & Cardamom, Balsamic , Special Toffee, Fairtrade Organic, 85% French Dark, Ginger, Papua New Guinea Milk, Mint and AntioxiChoc BerryBoost.

BUPA HELPS CREDIT CRUNCH CONSUMERS KEEP HEALTHY WITH FREE ONLINE HEALTHCHECK

With three in every four people fearing the credit crunch will damage their wellbeing and not just their wallets[1], Bupa, the leading health and care company, has launched a free online healthcheck: www.bupa.co.uk/healthcheck to help people keep well with health tips and advice that won’t break the bank.

Anyone with web access can take Bupa’s free online healthcheck, giving them a quick, simple and personalised picture of their health based on their medical and lifestyle risks. By using the new site over time, with its practical help and guidance, people can track their health, fitness and overall wellbeing without parting with a penny.

The online assessment[2] takes between 15 and 20 minutes. Once completed, people receive instant feedback on a red, amber and green scale about their diet, stress, fitness, prevention, screening and overall wellbeing. The healthcheck also highlights an individual’s average risk of breast cancer, bowel cancer, diabetes, heart disease, lung cancer and stroke based on their age and an extra assessment showing the additional risk that their current lifestyle contributes.

Dr Peter Mace, deputy medical director of Bupa Wellness, comments: “We know people are worried about the credit crunch yet they still want to take care of their health. We also know that they are increasingly using the internet for health information and advice but don't know which sources to trust. Bupa’s free online healthcheck is backed by qualified doctors and based on sound clinical evidence. It’s simple to use and provides health tips and advice which won't break the bank – helping people start 2009 on a healthy and credit crunch-friendly note.”
For a free online heath assessment visit www.bupa.co.uk/healthcheck.

1]Seventy-five percent of people (three in four) are concerned that the credit crunch will adversely affect their health and wellbeing, according to a survey of 10 of the UK’s biggest cities, by health and care company Bupa.
[2] The online health check is not designed or intended to provide a detailed health assessment or any diagnosis of any condition. If you require a detailed health assessment or the diagnosis of any symptoms you should attend a full Bupa Health Assessment or consult a doctor. This online health check will provide a risk assessment of potential health issues based on the limited information provided. You should only use this online health check as a guide to possible health factors you should consider. Bupa would always recommend a detailed health assessment for a full analysis of your health, or that medical advice be sought for any health concerns.

ANDREX® WINTER PUPPIES – SO ‘PUP’AR IT’S SELLING LIKE CRAZY!

Shoppers nationwide have been whipped into a complete frenzy this year over the adorable special limited edition Andrex® Winter Puppy. Andrex® has been bombarded at such an astonishing rate that they’ve even had to employ additional staff to ffil orders. In fact, the charity Pup has proved so popar that you’d better get your paws on one fast, before they run out!

This super cute limited edition Pup is helping Andrex® raise lots of money for Teenage Cancer Trust with all profits being donated to the very worthwhile charity. The money raised will go towards building specialist Teenage Cancer Trust units in NHS hospitals to help the six teenagers diagnosed with cancer every day in the UK. www.andrexpuppy.co.uk now and get your paws on this very special Puppy – a perfect post-Christmas present.

SPECIAL JANUARY OFFERS AT THE SKATE CAFÉ, SOMERSET HOUSE:
YOUR LAST CHANCE TO TRY THE LIMITED EDITION TIFFANY & CO. HUMMINGBIRD BAKERY CUPCAKE

This January, come down to the most glamorous ice rink in London to sample an array of treats at the Skate Café which are guaranteed to warm and inspire. Executive Head Chef for Tate, Sean Davies, has put together a selection of offers to tempt visitors with quality comfort food and drink. The beautiful Tiffany & Co. cupcake created by Hummingbird Bakery is available with a hot drink for just £4. A homemade soup and sandwich is just £5 and on special DJ nights, the Skate Café will tempt visitors with a pie and pint for £6. Now firmly established as an essential part of the festive season, London’s most beautif and prestigious ice rink in the romantic 18th century courtyard at Somerset House is open until 25th January 2009.

Delicious food made from quality ingredients

The Skate Café sells a range of high quality fork dishes, made from premium quality ingredients. Highlights of the menu include Londoner sausage with pickled red cabbage or Rhug Estate beef and shallot pie. Vegetarians can choose from Kidney bean and squash chilli con carne or Moroccan vegetable and feta pie. A selection of soups served with rustic bread also appear on the menu and include Leek and potato or Tomato and butterbean. Smaller portions of adt sizes are available for children. An indgent array of homemade cakes and biscuits such as Sticky ginger fudge cake and Mince pies make the perfect respite after an exhilarating skating session or long day in the office. Visitors are given a wide choice from breakfast right through to late evening when cocktails and warming snacks are available.

Festive drinks list created by award-winning Sommelier, Hamish Anderson

The drinks list has been specially selected by Tate’s award-winning Head Sommelier, Hamish Anderson. The unique mled wine recipe continues to be a crowd-pleaser and for the second year running, real ale from the iconic London brewer Flers is also on the list. A carefly sourced selection of wines and spirits from Tate’s legendary wine list feature strongly on the drinks list. Hamish has also created a special festive menu of soft drinks and smoothies including Belvoir spiced winter berries cordial and Benson’s Farm apple and cinnamon juice as well as hot drinks such as Jing leaf tea. A selection of festive hot drinks including Apple Toddy or Hot Chocolate with marshmallows and whipped cream is also available.

DJ nights at Somerset House Ice Rink

This year's Somerset House ice skating will again see late night opening on select dates, with skating in one of the most romantic and dramatic settings in London. This season brings the return of the popar DJ nights, where top notch DJs spin some corking tunes to make your late night skating even more special. You can expect to see some very cool DJs indeed, with DJ Cliffy’s Batmacumba Brazilian Beat night, Desdemona Plays Pop bringing the best 80s and 90s floor-fillers, and East London favourites Horse Meat Disco still to come. The Skate Café £6 offer of a pie and a pint is the perfect accompaniment.

BURNS’ NIGHT 2009 AT ST PANCRAS GRAND

To celebrate Burns’ Night, St Pancras Grand is offering a traditional Scottish supper for one night only. On Saturday 24th January, there will be a special set menu of Clen Skink to start, followed by Haggis, Neeps and Tatties. Then enjoy Roast Sirloin of Scottish Beef with woodland mushroom, potato fondant, spinach and red wine jus followed by Cranachan – the traditional Scottish dessert. After dinner, sample the extensive selection of whiskies in the Whisky Bar, newly opened in time for Burns’ Night.
Priced at £40.00, the Burns’ Night Supper includes a nip of whisky to put some colour in your cheeks. AND if you wear a kilt on the evening, male or female, you will receive a 50% discount off your meal.

“St Pancras Grand is quintessentially British but, set in Europe’s destination station; it exudes the glamour and excitement of bygone luxury travel imagining the Orient Express and New York’s bustling Grand Central Station” says David Best, general manager.
St Pancras Grand’s interior is richly styled by award-winning designer Martin Brudnizki - the brains behind Scotts Restaurant and The Club at The Ivy. Glowing spheres light the room, high ceilings reach up to the Dutch gold leaf roof and an oversized antique mirror hangs on the wall, giving a warm atmospheric feel – perfect for the winter.

Billy Reid, Executive Chef, has been behind some of the most famous names in restaurants including The Belvedere and the Vineyard at Stockcross where he gained his first Michelin Star. At St Pancras Grand, Billy has created a splendid and truly British menu including nostalgic favorites as well as modern-day classics. The St Pancras Grand, Champagne, Oyster Bar and Restaurant is open daily between 7am and midnight.

The St Pancras Grand Restaurant and Oyster Bar is open daily between 11am and 10.30pm, and offer private dining, creating discrete surroundings for up to 10 people. Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 020 7870 9900.

St Pancras Grand
Restaurant and Champagne Bar
Upper Concourse,
St Pancras International
London NW1 2QP

BENTLEY’S OFFERS EXCEPTIONAL VALUE TO HELP YOU BEAT THE CREDIT CRUNCH:6 MALDON ROCK OYSTERS AND MUSCADET FOR UNDER £10!

Richard Corrigan is offering half a dozen Maldon Rock oysters and a glass of perfectly matched Muscadet for under £10 in order to help you beat the January blues. This fantastic offer is available at any time, any day in both the Oyster Bar as well as the more formal Grill restaurant upstairs.

If you feel like something a little more hearty, Bentley’s is also offering a special lunch menu in The Grill with 2 courses for £18.50, £22.50 with a Carafe of wine or 3 courses for £22.50, £26.50 with a Carafe of wine.

Richard Corrigan’s Bentley’s, one of London’s premier seafood restaurants since 1916, currently serves around 1,000 oysters every single day at its marble-topped bar on the borders of Soho and Mayfair. Guests can sit at the bar to watch the oyster shuckers at work, or relax in cosy red leather banquettes. The Grill, located on the first floor is divided into several smaller rooms warmly decorated with William Morris designs and wooden flooring for old-style elegance.11-15 Swallow Street
London
W1B 4DG

Nearest Tube
Piccadilly Circus
Contact Details
T: +44 (0)20 7734 4756
F: +44 (0)20 7758 4140
E: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Opening times:

Oyster & Champagne Bar
Monday - Saturday
12.00pm to 12.00 midnight
Sunday
12.00pm to 10.00pm

The Grill
Monday – Friday
Lunch 12.00pm to 3.00pm
Open for dinner
Saturday
Closed for lunch
Dinner 6.00pm to 11.00pm
Sunday
Closed for lunch
Dinner 6.00pm to 10.00pm

LE BOUCHON BRETON LAUNCHES AN EXCITING NEW “EMPORTER” TAKE AWAY MENU FOR 2009

Le Bouchon Breton, East London's best loved super brasserie, situated in the heart of bustling Old Spitalfields Market launches a stunning new “Emporter” take away menu following the “Bouchon” tradition of superb, honest Gallic food, now available to eat where you like.

Breton Head Chef Nicolas Laridan has devised this new take away offering, featuring a selection of best loved brasserie classics handpicked from the menu at Le Bouchon Breton, all perfect for Emporter eating. Dishes on the new Breton “Emporter” menu include to start: A selection of terrines and charcuterie, delicate Fish and shellfish bisques, Langoustines, lobster and tiger prawns with mayonnaise, Seafood tagliatelle, Smoked salmon and a selection of hearty French sandwiches.For main course choose from comforting, free range Roast chicken “Poulet de Lande” with gratin dauphinouse, buttery garlic infused green beans and rich chicken jus, Ox cheeks braised in red wine, Choucroute or A selection of mouth watering Limousin, Charloais and Black Angus steaks including fillet and ribeye cut to three sizes with French Fries and pepper sauce. A spot of delectable cheese from the infamous Breton cheese trolley or rich Chocolate mousse makes the perfect finish.

Francois Bertrand, Breton’s charming Sommelier has selected a handful of suitable red and white wines from his Breton Carte alongside a selection of beer and cider to go with this exciting new offering. Be it a lavish lunch at your desk, the perfect interlude to any board meeting, directors’ lunches or the ultimate, effort free supper or weekend lunch party with family and friends in the comfort of your home, the Emporter menu from Le Bouchon Breton makes the ultimate take away offering.To place an order please contact Le Bouchon Breton on 08000 191 704

To view Le Bouchon Bretons new take away menu as well a further brand new Emporter take away menu for sister restaurant Le Bouchon Bordelais click on to www.lebouchon.co.uk

Ordering and Collection
Monday to Saturday
Morning orders between 9am – 11.30am
Morning/lunch collections between 11am and 12.30pm
Afternoon/evening orders between 3pm and 9.30pm
Please allow 90 minutes for Le Poulet Emporter

Le Bouchon Breton,
8 Horner Square,
Old Spitalfields Market,
London E1 6EW

Tel: 08000 191 704
www.lebouchon.co.uk

GILLIAN MCKEITH’S WALKING WORKOUTS
Are you feeling fat, flabby and fed-up? Are you struggling to lose weight? Are you feeling unmotivated in your fitness regime? Are you desperate to transform your life? If so, the Gillian McKeith’s new Boot Camp Diet is a must for you. In January 2009, Gillian McKeith launches the Boot Camp Diet, a brand new health initiative offering a 14 day kick start to get your health on track. The regime features a book – Gillian McKeith’s Boot Camp Diet and a UK first - a collection of motivational and inspirational downloads, entitled The Walking Workouts.

The Walking Workouts are Gillian’s brand new health initiative and will be available on iTunes and tescodigital.com. The downloads are a range of 30 minute audio workouts which you can partner with your life - anytime and anywhere. There are three easily-downloadable musical offerings: disco era of the 70’s; classic rock era of the 80’s; and Top 40 hits, with Gillian’s motivational messages and fitness tips taking you through you through a 30 minute workout on the move. When combined with the brand new book, this dual fitness approach will provide the motivation to transform your life. The Boot Camp Diet promises maximum results in minimum time.

The Walking Workouts are designed to help people struggling to find time to exercise and to fit into the busy lifestyle of those who are constantly on the move. The dual campaign is ideal for the busy mother, the daily commuter, the overworked individual, or anyone wanting to feel better. Taking only thirty minutes a day, the downloads are a key element to a 14-day health regime, but the results are astounding. Gillian McKeith’s Boot Camp Diet is an easy to download fitness programme which suits any individual. Gillian’s simple health initiative addresses any excuses. This is a chance for anyone to regain your health and happiness. Let Gillian become your personnel trainer. Gillian’s motivational tips on the Walking Workouts promise to encourage, transform and permanently alter your life. The Walking Workouts are an indispensable guide to anyone who cares about their health.

Gillian McKeith’s Walking Workouts will be available to download from iTunes and www.tescodigital.com and are priced at £4.74. For further information log onto www.gillianmckeith.info . Gillian McKeith’s new Boot Camp Diet book. Priced £6.99 and available from all good retailers from 8th Jan

HOW TO SING THE JANUARY BLUES AWAY- Singing hailed as best medicine to make you smile

Sing Up - (www.singup.org) the national singing campaign - is calling on depressed commuters to Sing Up for just 5 minutes a day, in a bid to lift the annual January blues and improve the health and mental well being of the nation.

Academics from the Institute of Education at the University of London have recognised the effectiveness of singing in relieving the symptoms of the seasonal spirit slump. In a response prompted by Sing Up – which is based on the proven benefits of singing to primary school children - Professor Graham F Welch of the University of London agrees that singing is one of the most positive forms of human activity, supporting physical, mental and social health, as well as individual development.

It is also one of the easiest – and cheapest – ways of lifting spirits and putting a smile back on the faces of Brits returning to work after the Christmas break. Professor Graham F Welch’s insightsi include:

• Singing counters the symptoms of colds and flu by improving airflow in the upper respiratory tract, which lessens opportunities for bacteria to flourish by keeping the airways open.
  

• Even when seated, singing is an activity that exercises major muscle groups in the upper body - the aerobic nature of the activity improves the efficiency of the body’s cardiovascular system, with benefits to overall health - this in turn increases overall alertness and is linked to longevity, stress reduction and general health maintenance.

• Singing is a cathartic activity - it allows us to experience and express key emotions such as joy and sadness, providing an outlet for our feelings and allowing us to enjoy the activity, and to feel better about ourselves and the world around us

• Singing relates to better communication, encouraging empathy with those around us, especially if singing in a group or as part of a choir - this is where the physical and psychological benefits are supported by a positive group identity and an increased sense of community

Professor Graham F Welch, said ‘This is notoriously the time of year when spirits are low and depression can creep in. Cold weather, winter sniffles, limited sunlight and the cost of Christmas, leaves many people feeling downbeat – but a free and simple remedy such as singing could banish the January blues for good.’

What to do?
To counter the seasonal spirit slump, Sing Up encourages anyone feeling low to:

• dedicate 5 minutes each day to singing their favourite song – in the shower, on the tube or even before you get out of bed
• sing ‘Good Morning’ to a friend, relative or neighbour - it will make you – and them – smile
• sing the headlines of the paper out loud over breakfast
• visit Sing Up www.singup.org – the national singing resource – there, you can find a web-based songbook of new and traditional songs with downloadable song sheets and backing tracks – and guidance on how to incorporate singing into your day, no matter what your singing ability
• sing with your children – group singing is a great way to have fun together and also for children to learn about new topics. The Sing Up songbank has a growing list of tracks for all abilities and you can listen for free!
• don’t worry about who can hear you or if you’re any good – just the physical act of singing is good for you and if you’re no good, laugh about it – that will improve your state of mind too

The Top 5 Songs to sing to get you smiling:

• Happy Hour – The Housemartins
• Smile – Lily Allen
• Shiny Happy People - REM
• Come up and See Me (Make me Smile) – Steve Harley & The Cockney Rebel
• Don’t Worry Be Happy – The Hit Crew

Of course, singing any song at all can make you happy – visit www.singup.org for inspiration.

The Sing Up initiative has the support of urban artist Jamelia who launched the campaign in November 2007.

Sing Up is the campaign name for the Music Manifesto National Singing Programme, produced by Youth Music with AMV-BBDO, Faber Music and The Sage Gateshead, supported by Government.

Editor's Note: Remember not everyone likes being sung to in the morning, there are a few of us at Hot Brands who are not morning people, and much as we love singing its usually at night and perhaps on a table !

 

Please Note
All information is supplied to us by the individual organizations, or agencies acting on their behalf. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that all information is accurate, it may be subject to change. Please check with individual organizations for the latest information about all events, products, or news items. Always take advice before making any financial investments. Care should be taken with the use of every beauty product particularly if you have any allergies, or sensitive skin. Always read the labels on products. Inclusion in a news item does not imply endorsement by Hot Brands Cool Places. Hot Brands Cool Places does not accept responsibility for the content of any external site.