Pimm’s Cider Cup & Pimm’s Summer Crush Review

Posted on August 28, 2015 by Frostie

It is a bank holiday and to start you off we have reviewed two new additions to the Pimm’s family: Pimm’s Cider Cup and Pimm’s Summer Crush. Pimm’s Cider Cup is a very British combination that tastes great. Refreshing and perfect for a hot summers day. It even has hints of strawberry and cucumber. Cider AND Pimm’s in one? What is there not to love about it?

The new Pimm’s Cider Cup is a wonderfully British combination of the crisp taste of English cider and the glorious flavours of Pimm’s. It wouldn’t be the same without a hint of strawberry and cucumber, so the makers of Pimm’s have kindly added that in too. There’s no need for chopping – it’s a union made in heaven.

Simply pour straight from the bottle onto lots of ice, gather your friends and enjoy the fruits of Pimm’s labour in the very latest and tastiest creation wherever, whenever.

Now available in retailers across the land, the new Pimm’s Cider Cup (RRP £2.29 for 500ml) will also be available in pubs and bars with an RRP of £4.50.

Pimm’s Cider Cup is available to buy in Morrisons.co.uk, Tesco.com and Asda.com in a 500ml bottle (4% ABV, RRP £2.29), or in pubs / bars for £4.50.

Pimm’s Summer Crush is delicious and refreshing. Perfect to cool off and can be even eaten as a dessert, or put in a glass to drink. It tastes great and even though it is frozen, it doesn’t taste watered down. The taste of Pimm’s is there along with a hint of strawberry and cucumber. Just wonderful.

Offering another brilliant way to enjoy a Pimm’s O’clock moment this summer, Pimm’s Summer Crush – best served in a long glass with friends – is the ultimate summer refresher.

All you need to do is pop the pouches in the freezer for eight hours and squeeze the ready to serve frozen drink into a glass – what’s more, they also double up as a Frozen Granita dessert!

Pimm’s Summer Crush (4.7% ABV) is available to buy as a 250ml pouch in Tesco and all major retailers for RRP £2.99.

Gourmet Chocolate Pizza Review

Posted on August 28, 2015 by Frostie

The best way to let someone know just how much they mean to you is with chocolate. Well, that is what we think anyway. This gourmet chocolate pizza is not only unique, but it also tastes great and can be personalised. There are a few different ones to choose from and it comes in a cool pizza box. Made with Belgium chocolate and topped with other delicious ingredients…Frost loves.

Chocolate choppers assemble and indulge in a devilish delight you will adore. This all new range of Gourmet Chocolate Pizzas are every food fanatics dream.

Snack on a scrumptious slice, these pizzas can be used for every occasion. So say it in style with Birthday Pizzas, Congratulations Pizzas, and even Personalised Pizzas – give the gift with a difference this year.

These beautiful and delicious pizzas are the tasty treat for every chocolate lover. The novelty pizza takeaway box, keeps your mouth-watering dish fresh and fun looking!

Made with gorgeous Belgium chocolate and topped with a number of ingredients from white chocolate curls, to handmade chocolate hearts, and sweet treats you can virtually have any combination you choose.

This flavoursome food is for everyone! Ranging in Heavenly honeycomb, Crunchy Munchy, Jelly Bean Jumble, Yummy Scrummy, Must-have Marshmallow and Delighfully Dark – we’ve all the fantastic flavours you can imagine.

With up to 24 characters to personalise your pizza, you can create a message like never before, with the unique, handmade plaques your gift will not only be distinctive but delicious.

Delivered straight to your door by www.prezzybox.com only for great prices from £11.95 to £16.95

5 of The Worst Cars Ever Made

Posted on August 24, 2015 by Frostie

The history of car design is studded with iconic vehicles, from the luxurious – Jaguar E-Types, Rolls Royce Phantoms, to the family-friendly. The Fiesta is a good example with over four million sold, the most popular car in Britain of all time. Yet public opinion is not always so kind. There have been a slew of unmitigated catastrophes, cars that have come close to ruining their manufacturers or seriously disappointed their owners. Here are some of the worst cars ever to drive, or be pushed, off the forecourt.

Ford Edsel

During the second season of The Simpsons, just as the show hit its creative peak, the episode Oh Brother, Where Art Thou? was screened in which Homer is employed by his recently-discovered half-brother to design a car. Given free rein with his imagination, the car is a disaster, full of unnecessary extras, hideous in appearance, and vastly expensive to boot. The car flops, and Homer returns to Springfield a failure.

The episode was inspired in part by the Ford Edsel, brainchild of Edsel Ford, son of Henry, with whom he had a somewhat fractious relationship. Edsel was convinced by spurious market research that his car was going to a huge hit with the buying public, and would blow competition out of the water. Needless to say, it did not. The pre-launch marketing left car-buyers confused, as did the pricing, and the claims that this was a revolutionary model were undone by bodywork and engineering very similar to previous Fords. The Edsel eventually lost the company around $350 million, the equivalent in today’s money of almost $3 billion, making Edsel Ford a name synonymous with failure.

Yugo GV

The Yugo holds legendary status. It had a rear-window defroster, that many joked was to keep your hands warm while you pushed it. The electrics were notoriously patchy if not downright dangerous. Apocryphal stories circulated of parts falling off while driving, and engines giving up the ghost after only a few thousand miles. On the surface, it lived up to its name (GV stood for Good Value) – it could get up to 30mpg, and sold for a then astonishingly cheap price. In 1999, the factory making them for Zastava, in what was then Yugoslavia, was itself partially destroyed by NATA bombs, signalling the end for the GV, and not before time.

Ford Pinto

Another misstep for Ford came in 1971 when it introduced the Pinto to the marketplace. Infamously, there was an issue with the fuel tank, which was unusually mounted between the rear axle, and the rear bumper. Because of the tank’s design, there was a significant risk that even a low-speed rear-ender could result in either the bolts from the differential piercing the tank, or the filler neck coming away and spilling fuel under the car – ergo, this was not safe car.

Investigations, lawsuits, and sometime later a recall followed, irreparably tarnishing the Pinto’s reputation. Worst of all, it has been suggested that testing on the rear end had been too light during the design process as Ford worked to keep the price as low as possible. The company’s cost-benefit analysis of potential lawsuit payments compared to the cost of repairs was later revealed, and led to further bad press.

DeLorean DMC 12

One of the all-time cinematic icons, the DeLorean was the time-travel device of choice for Back to the Future, but in the harsh, unforgiving light of the real world, the car was a colossal flop. One of the biggest problems was that in order to take advantage of cheap labour, it was decided to manufacture the car in Northern Ireland, where many of the production team had little to no experience in this type of work. Frequent design changes caused the project schedule to overrun, while the car’s performance left a lot to be desired. Several celebrity investors including Sammy Davis Jr lost out when the company eventually folded, and John DeLorean’s career came to a sticky end with charges of drug trafficking.

Reliant Robin

Another cultural touchstone, the Reliant Robin is actually one of the bestselling fiberglass cars of all times, and the manufacturer, Reliant, was for a spell one of the UK’s biggest. Nowadays it has become a bit of a joke, the three-wheeled design roundly mocked. Many of the myths surrounding the Reliant Robin have been debunked (one persists, that Delboy drove one in Only Fools and Horses – it was actually a Reliant Regal), but the fact remains that this is a car, if you can really call it a car, that felt profoundly unstable when taking corners at speed, or during windy conditions. A report found that Robin Reliant drivers were statistically the safest on UK roads, but then, that was because they needed to be!

7 Days of Champagne at Gaucho

Posted on August 21, 2015 by Frostie

With a week of bespoke master classes, dinners and even a special film club, Gaucho will be celebrating the finest of all sparkling wines: Champagne.

Gaucho’s Champagne masterclasses will be hosted by brand ambassadors from some of the most acclaimed Champagne’s, including Mumm and Ruinart as well as having their very own Director of Wine and Head Sommeilier lead guests through the history and making of brands such as Veuve Clicquot and Moet & Chandon.

Those attending can expect to sample Champagne at its best, both as a stand-alone glass of bubbles or in specially developed Champagne cocktails. The masterclasses will leave you with the kind of knowledge that is guaranteed to impress at any celebration or gathering. In true Gaucho style, guests will be given a selection of signature Argentine appetizers during the masterclass.

As well as master classes, Gaucho are also hosting dinners that are set to be an evening of pure opulence with Gaucho’s unrivalled wet-aged steak to accompany these exquisite Champagnes.

EVENTS

Master Class with Ruinart – Gaucho Piccadilly – Monday 7^th September, 6.30pm (£25)

Madame Clicquot Master Class – Gaucho Leeds – Tuesday 8^th September, 6.30pm (£25)

Argentine Sparkling Vs Champagne – Gaucho Smithfield – Wednesday 9^th September, 6.30pm (£25)

Master Class with G.H. Mumm – Gaucho Manchester – Thursday 10^th September, 6.30pm (£25)

Moet Hennessy Dinner – Gaucho Chancery – Friday 11^th September, 7.00pm (£75)

Pernod Ricard Dinner – Gaucho Broadgate – Saturday 12^th September, 7.00pm (£75)

Gaucho’s Film Club Special: Breakfast at Tiffany’s – Gaucho Charlotte Street – Sunday 13^th September, 12.00pm – 2.30pm (£45)

For more information or to book please visit: http://www.gauchorestaurants.co.uk/

It Takes Two… to Make a Baby. All You Need to Know About Men’s Fertility

Posted on August 21, 2015 by Frostie

Although a woman is the one, who will carry and deliver the baby, a man has a crucial role in pregnancy. In fact, almost 40 % of problems with fertility are caused by men’s conditions. *

We have put together some useful tips and fact from our experts for making healthy sperm and giving you the best chance of becoming a dad.

Don’t cook your balls

Heat is among the top causes of reduced fertility in men. ‘Everyone thinks of not having hot baths or wearing tight underpants for men as it may affect sperm health. It’s production takes place at 32°C, which is lower than the body temperature at 37°C. The testes are on the outside of a man’s body to keep them cooler. As they get closer to the body (e.g. by sitting for long periods when driving or cycling) the sperm heats up which may reduce the count.

However, a more surprising piece of research found that men using laptops on their laps was causing a problem with sperm health. In order to balance the laptop, men will often close their legs. This on its own (even without the laptop) raises the temperature of their genitals by up 2.1°C. In conjunction with heat generated by laptop itself it causes a rise in temperature of up to 2.8°C. It might seem like not a lot, but a rise of just 1°C can decrease fertility by 40%!’ explains Dr Marilyn Glenville, the UK’s leading nutritionist and author of Getting Pregnant Faster.

Oysters for dinner

‘Stress, pollution, smoking and alcohol – unfortunately, our modern lifestyles tend to decrease our zinc levels. In addition, heating and cooking can also reduce the zinc in foods by 50%. However, this is a mineral not to be forgotten. It not only boosts sperm levels but it also improves it quality (it creates the outer membrane and tail of a sperm.) A low level of Zinc can even lead to impaired fertility.’ explains Shona Wilkinson, Head Nutritionist at www.nutricentre.com.

‘Make sure you include in your diet zinc-rich ingredients such as seafood, lamb, spinach, nuts, beans and mushrooms. Studies conducted by experts from https://www.numan.com/erectile-dysfunction, also show that ‘eating a rainbow’ of fruit and vegetables that are rich in antioxidants will not only fuel your grey matter and muscles but can also boost your fertility. Antioxidants cause surges in testosterone, improve sperm quality and increases sex drive.

You can also try AgeLoss Men’s Multi by Nature’s Plus (www.nutricentre.com, £47.00) which is not only high in Zinc but also in libido-optimizing herbal staples rhodiola rosea and ginseng.’ adds Michela Vagnini, Nutritionist at www.naturesplus.co.uk.

There is one, very important amino acid…

L-Arginine is an amino acid, which is crucial for most of metabolic processes. It contributes to the health of vascular system by boosting blood circulation and regulating the relaxation of blood vessels. ‘As it supports blood flow, it is a natural remedy for erectile dysfunction, a common problem associated with infertility. Stress, fatigue and lack of stamina can make men weak and not able to complete the sexual act. In addition, L-Arginine is essential for sperm production (it can be found in large amounts in the head of the sperm). You can find it seafood, eggs, lentils, chocolate and whole wheat grains. You can also go for NHP’s Men’s Fertility Support (www.naturalhealthpractice.com, £32.77), which includes 1000mg of L-Arginine.’ says Dr Glenville.

If you are worried about your stamina, you can also try organic medicinal mushroom supplement by Hifas da Terra, Mico-Cord (Harrods, £55), which enhances cardiovascular circulation and strengthen the body.

Lose extra pounds

We all know that being overweight has a huge impact on our health. Unfortunately, it is also an excellent contraceptive. ‘Extra pounds affect sperm quality, decrease their ability to swim, reduce sperm count and increase damage to DNA. Men, who are overweight, suffer from hormonal imbalance, which causes lower sex drive. So losing those extra pounds should be the first thing on your list!’ says Wilkinson.

No smoking area

Apart from being dangerous for your overall health, smoking can affect men’s fertility on many levels. ‘Toxins found in cigarettes take their tool on not only our lungs but they can also increase the risk of DNA damage in sperm cell. Smoking can also contribute towards erectile dysfunction as it damages the blood vessels. And finally, this awful habit depletes Vitamin C from your body, which contributes to sperm ‘clumping’ together. This can affect its mobility, as sperm are not supposed to stick together – they cannot swim that way.’ says Glenville.

Make those boys swim faster
Have you heard of CoQ10? Apart from being a powerful antioxidant, which helps to protect cells from free radical damage it is also necessary for energy production. ‘Studies have shown that it can not only increase sperm health but also its motility in semen, making your little swimmers more energetic. Unfortunately, CoQ10 decline with age and is extremely difficult to obtain through the diet. Go for Ubiquinol Qu10 by Quest Vitamins (www.revital.co.uk, £23.15).’ advises Sharon Morey, Nutritionist at Quest Vitamins.

* http://www.webmd.com/infertility-and-reproduction/features/male-infertility-facts

Sun Damage – Short-Term and Long-Term Effects By Dr Kathleen Thompson

Posted on August 18, 2015 by Frostie

Last time we discussed sunburn and sunscreens. But what if, despite all efforts, you get sunburned?

First reduce inflammation. Take anti-inflammatories (eg ibuprofen) and apply bland moisturisers. Cool the affected skin with wet cloths, and keep hydrated. (Pure) aloe vera may help.

Vitamin E may reduce on-going skin-cell damage, which can continue even after sun-exposure. Burnt skin should be protected from further sun. If the burn is severe and covers a large area, or you feel unwell, you may need medical advice.

After several days, your skin will appear recovered, albeit somewhat browner. But this isn’t the end of the story. You will have some permanent damage, which will make your skin look older, and put you at more risk of skin cancer.

Sun UV is responsible for 80% of skin-aging – reduced elasticity (causing sagginess), skin texture changes, wrinkles, hyper-pigmentation and yellowish discolouration. A recent study has shown that regular sunscreens significantly reduce these effects.

More worrying, it is estimated that, in the UK, sun is responsible for 70-90% of the main skin cancers – malignant melanoma (MM), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC).

Intermittent severe (blistering) sunburn, particularly when young, is probably the major cause of MM. In fact, five severe sunburns between ages 15 to 20 years increase risk by 80%. Conversely, SCC and BCC are related to chronic long-term sun. Fair-skinned people are at greater risk as they have less protective melanin. Some people are also genetically susceptible.

Our immune system always attempts to remove damaged skin-cells, in order to prevent cancer, so any immunodeficiency increases risk. To help your immune system, eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables.

MM arises from melanocytes (melanin-producing cells). MM may look like a new mole, or a change in a pre-existing mole – such as increased size, irregular edge, colour changes, asymmetrical shape, itching, pain, bleeding or crustiness. Melanoma is aggressive, but can be cured if caught early, so do see your doctor if you notice any skin changes. It can develop from melanocytes anywhere – any skin and, rarely, even the eye.

MM is the most dangerous skin cancer, but BCC is the commonest (75%) and SCC is next commonest. Unlike MM, which can appear on skin anywhere, BCC and SCC generally develop on sun-exposed skin. Either may resemble a sore, which won’t heal, a reddish patch, sometimes with crusting or bleeding. BCC sometimes forms a shiny bump of various colours, or an irregular scar. SCC can look like a wart, or a raised growth with a central dip.

Most BCC and SCC can be removed successfully, but if ignored, they can invade deeply, causing serious disfigurement and sometimes can spread elsewhere in the body, particularly SCC.

The best solution is to avoid sunburn and prolonged sun exposure. However once the damage is done, do maintain a healthy immune system and watch your skin carefully for any changes, or odd lumps or bumps which won’t going away – early treatment can cure.

Further Information:

http://www.skincancer.org/prevention/sunburn/facts-about-sunburn-and-skin-cancer

http://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/causes-of-cancer/sun-uv-and-cancer/sun-facts-and-evidence

Note: These articles express personal views. No warranty is made as to the accuracy or completeness of information given and you should always consult a doctor if you need medical advice

The How Not to be a Dick Guide

Posted on August 17, 2015 by Frostie

Know someone who loves being a jerk? Is there someone making your life difficult? Don’t worry, help is at hand with this great How Not to be a Dick Book. Bulk buy and hand out liberally.

Do you know someone who just loves to be a jerk? Then we’ve got something that will work – the How Not to be a Dick Book.

We all know a queue skipper, a food hogger, a boy racer and general two-facers. These individuals do the duty not all of us can do – Be a Dick.

Love them or hate them, there here for good, but if you give them a gift this year – make it one that might tone them down just a little.

A humorous hard back to pack with them wherever they go, its helpful tips and funny illustrations will have them in stitches but will also advise on everyday etiquette.

Fight the impossible and diminish dickish behaviour everywhere.

Dicks expect a gift – so give them one that they royally deserve. The How Not to be a Dick Guide, only £11.95 from www.prezzybox.com.

Meat Porter Online Artisan Butcher Review

Posted on August 14, 2015 by Frostie

Online shopping has really taken off in recent years. Now, finally, food has caught up with the trend. Our busy lives demand convenience and our good taste demands quality. Enter Meat Porter. An online artisan butcher who source their meat from the same place as the high end restaurants in London. High end meat delivered straight to your door, sounds good to us.

I can’t pretend I wasn’t excited when our box of meat came. I was even more excited when I opened the box. The meat comes in an insulated box and in the box is a good range of well-packaged meat. There is also a sheet of paper with lots of meat tips on.

Now for the meat: it is delicious. It keeps us going for weeks and is very high quality. The burgers are sublime, the sausages tasty. There is chicken in a delicious sauce that makes everything easy; some glorious rump steaks and some diced pork and pork belly to round it off. There are a number of different boxes to choose from on the Meat Porter site, or you can make up your own. They even do gluten free options.

The box that we reviewed was their BBQ box which costs £50 and has 30 serving. It contains