The White Horse – Constable.

There has been a long history of the media creating rivalry, where perhaps none exists. One might think of the Beatles and the Rolling Stones, Blur and Oasis, Take That and East 17, but until this exhibition I had not previously considered J.M.W. Turner and John Constable.

Born within a year of each other – J.M.W. Turner in 1775 and John Constable in 1776 – the film explores the artists’ intertwined lives alongside the groundbreaking Tate Britain exhibition (in London until April 2026). As the experts tell us, there is no definitive evidence that they were rivals, other than that set up in the press. Somethings never change.

As this exhibition invites the viewer to compare and contrast, I will not be writing so much about the content of this exhibition, as the difference in the experience of visiting in, person or from the comfort of the local cinema. However, you choose to see it, see it you should. It is an experience not to be missed, featuring two of Britain’s most celebrated artists.

I was fortunate to visit this exhibition a few weeks ago and so was keen to see how the film would match up. Of course there are the obvious differences, Tate Modern is a 5 – 10-minute walk from the nearest Underground Station (Pimlico), and costs £24.00 per person (without concessions). It is a hugely popular exhibition and set to become more so as it reaches the end of its run, but this means that many of the timeslots have already sold out.

Exhibition on Screen once again has privileged access to bring their extraordinary art and remarkable stories to the big screen so that audiences can enjoy both the film and exhibition together. No travelling into London, no queues and no straining round other visitors to see the artwork. The film reveals the ways these artists redefined landscape painting and paved the way for Impressionism. TURNER & CONSTABLE offers intimate views of sketchbooks, personal items and beloved homes plus insights from leading experts. TURNER & CONSTABLE is the unmissable opportunity to see these great artists side-by-side, as they so often were in life, on the big screen for the first time.

T & C 21 Filming Turner Sketch Book copyright David Bickerstaff

Watching the film is a different experience to visiting the exhibition, one doesn’t get the same frisson of actually being in the presence of historic artworks with even a chair and paints belonging to the artists themselves. Nor are you able to look as closely at the brushwork as you might wish, or at a section of the painting that you might want to examine. Your experience of this exhibition is at the discretion of the Director.

That said, this is a big exhibition (12 rooms) and I found myself in need of a sit down before I had completed my viewing. Nor do you have to contend with other art enthusiasts who get in the way of viewing, just as I got in the way of others. The biggest advantage is that there are several experts, who are giving their opinion on the art history itself, the techniques deployed or my personal favourite, the moving images of the places that inspired the painting. This cannot be overestimated it brings the paintings to life in a way that a photograph can’t.

I found the views of experts enlightening to a degree that I had not anticipated.

I would advise that it you can get to the exhibition then you should do so, but if that is not possible look out for this documentary at your local cinema. Despite having seen the exhibition, I was rivetted by this film and felt that it had added another layer to my understanding. So, I would definitely recommend watching this film whether you have visited the Exhibition or not.

Exhibition on Screen’s unmissable new feature documentary, TURNER & CONSTABLE, coming to cinemas from 10^th March.

British icon calls reading a ‘superpower’ as he supports national campaign tackling the UK’s reading crisis. (Image credit: Adama Jalloh)

Stormzy has thrown his support behind The Reading Agency’s Quick Reads, the flagship UK-wide initiative designed to engage adults who don’t yet see themselves as readers. Almost half of adults in the UK say they are not readers*, and in 2026 – the National Year of Reading – Quick Reads celebrates its 20th anniversary with its most ambitious programme to date.

Quick Reads are short, accessible books written by bestselling authors and created specifically for non-readers, lapsed readers, people with short attention spans, and neurodivergent readers. The programme has grown into a national reading movement centred around World Book Night on 23 April, when thousands of Quick Read titles are gifted to libraries, prisons, community groups, charities, and foodbanks across the UK.

Derek Owusu (Image copyright Josima Senior)

Among the six new Quick Reads titles for 2026 is Hunger Pains by Derek Owusu, published by #Merky Books, Stormzy’s imprint at Penguin Random House. Stormzy said: “Reading helped me when I was young and it still does today. Books have the power to carry you through life. So I’m really proud that Derek Owusu, one of our incredible #Merky Books authors, is taking part in The Reading Agency’s Quick Reads. His words will reach the people who need them most. I encourage anyone who doesn’t usually read to pick up a Quick Read – because reading really is a superpower.”

Known for his creative and cultural impact as well as his commitment to social change, Stormzy has long used his platform to tackle inequality and champion access to the arts. In 2020, he founded the #Merky Foundation, pledging £10 million over 10 years to support racial equality and justice reform.

Stormzy added: “Music and books are both about finding your voice. We are all made of stories – they define who we are – and that’s why #Merky Books exists: to make sure every voice has a platform.”

Award-winning writer and poet Derek Owusu said: “Having never read a book until the age of 24, I wish I had come across Quick Reads sooner. They’re accessible, affordable, and gentle in their approach, allowing new or lapsed readers to find their way into the pleasure and fulfilment of reading fiction and non-fiction. I’m excited to be part of their legacy and to add my voice to something that helps people feel confident enough to pick up a book and look forward to spending time with it.”

All Quick Reads titles go through a rigorous accessibility review process, including testing for readability, concentration, and suitability for adults rebuilding reading confidence. To mark the 20th anniversary of Quick Reads, The Reading Agency has unveiled ambitious expansion plans for 2026. For the first time, the charity will:

• Launch Quick Reads as audiobooks for the first time
• Announce a major new partnership and special Quick Read title on World Book Night
• Gift half a million Quick Reads books to prisons across the UK

Research from The Reading Agency shows that regular reading can transform lives, improving wellbeing, social mobility, and long-term life chances.Karen Napier, CEO of The Reading Agency, said: “Quick Reads are a proven, high-impact way to reach adults who don’t yet see themselves as readers. During the National Year of Reading and on World Book Night, we want to show that reading is for everyone – and that a single book can be the start of a lifelong habit.”

Since its launch in 2006, Quick Reads has:

• Distributed over 5 million books
• Worked with more than 30 publishers
• Generated over 6 million library loans

The other 2026 Quick Reads titles span thrillers, romance, and contemporary fiction, with books by Rachel Hore, Leye Adenle, Rosie Goodwin, Louise Jensen, and Carmel Harrington.

Quick Reads can be ordered from The Reading Agency

Stand by for a flirty and fun romance in The Groom that Got away by Sally Clements. Matthew did the unthinkable – he left June, his fiance, at the altar – 7 years ago. Yes, yes, he did. Now, her heart well and truly healed, June is to pledge her troth to another and has invited Matthew as her ‘something old’. Oh, I love it. Revenge is best served cold. April June’s sister then finds herself attracted to this bounder – gasp! Or is he really a bounder?

Perhaps not, so should April draw closer to the sparks that are ignited between the two of them, or would June object? But doesn’t Matthew deserve a second chance? Oh, no. I’m not telling you any more. It’s fun, and that’s what we need. https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0G4HCCC1N/ @ £2.99 Kindle Edition

The Menu Match (Maple Gardens Matchmakers Book 3) by Philippa Nefri Clarke. Kindle edition

Quinne is a social media influencer. Peter is the somewhat grumpy cook at Maple Gardens Assisted Living. Two different people, why would they get together? Ah, Quinne’s mum is a resident who likes to put in her two pennyworth. She feels Quinne should showcase Maple Gardens but it is the last thing on Quinne’s mind until Peter’s ten-year-old daughter persuades her to reconsider. Peter is less than thrilled, he has enough to do being a newly single dad. But it seems it might be a good move as as Quinne rediscovers her love of cooking, and Peter watches his daughter come out of her shell. Add to this unexpected feelings grow between Quinne and Peter. Is it plain sailing? Certainly not, as an accident confirms their differences. However, remember the formidable Maple Gardens residents … This is a mere hiccup in the road of a group of grannies intent on their matchmaking skills. Do read it. And never forget, Grannies are supreme! https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FDQRXV4M/ @ £2.99

Suzy Henderson has written an empathetic novel which grips, informs and moves. This historical romance is an evocation of bravery, suffering and hope, set as it is around the Guinea Pig Club and surgical pioneer Sir Archibald McIndoe.

Bassingbourn, England, 1942 Stella Charlton joins the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force which displeases her mother, who would love her to settle down with Alex, the perfect match for her daughter. But too late, for a US air force pilot is the focus of her interest, but will he survive? John ‘Mac’ Mackenzie is conscious of the responsibility he shoulders as a bomber pilot – for himself, his crew and the people he wants to protect. But what happens when he becomes a burns casualty? How can he inflict this situation on Stella, and anyway, he’d rather he pushed her away than she reject him. Only when Mac meets maverick New Zealand doctor Archie McIndoe does a glimmer of hope return. The unorthodox surgeon is determined to help badly injured soldiers such as Mac to return to a normal life, not only through conventional medicine but through plastic surgery – and by starting to heal their emotional wounds. https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0DNN3QHCG/ @ £1.99

By the Sword: A compelling and romantic historical saga (Guardians of the Crown Book 1) by Alison Stuart Kindle Edition. The first volume of this gripping historical drama about having the courage to stand up for your beliefs and fight for your love

England 1650: In the aftermath of the execution of the King, England totters once more on the brink of civil war. Kate Ashley’s loyalty to the Parliamentary cause clashes with her sense of responsibility for the estate of the Royalist Thornton family. She will need all her wits to restore its fortunes and fend off the ever-present threat of greedy neighbours, as well as protect those she cares about. Jonathan Thornton, exiled and hunted for his loyalty to the King’s cause, returns to England to drum up support for the young King. Haunted by the demons of his past, Jonathan risks death at every turn and brings danger to those who love him. Finding Kate in his family home, he sees in her the hope for his future, and a chance at a life he feels he doesn’t deserve. Kate and Jonathan’s love is fragile, and their lives are manipulated by events out of their control. What hope can one ragged soldier and a brave woman hold in times like these? Read it, I won’t tell you. https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FJRVY1LZ/ @ £1.99 kindle edition

King of My Fears: A romantic suspense of desire, lies and second chances (The Kingdom Book 2) Kindle Edition by Abby North Spice, secrets, and redemption in the thrilling second installment of The Kingdom series. More titles in this series
King of My Scars (ISBN: 9782386191343)

Arianna believes she’s left hell behind. At Denham King’s side, she’s discovered for the first time what it truly means to live – and to love. But happiness is a fragile illusion. When the shadows of her past return, safety turns into fear, and trust becomes a dangerous game. Someone knows where she is. Someone wants her back. And this time, running isn’t enough. Caught between betrayal and desire, Arianna must decide whom she can truly trust: the man who she loves – or the one who once broke it … https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0G139YC8L/ @£2.99

The Wedding Shroud: A heartbreaking tale of love and destiny in Ancient Rome (A Tale of Ancient Rome Book 1) Kindle Edition by Elisabeth Storrs. “All the drama and sensuality expected of an historical romance, plus a sensitivity to the realities of life in a very different time and world …” – Ursula K. Le Guin

In 406 BC, the young Roman, Caecilia, is wedded to Vel Mastarna, an Etruscan nobleman from Veii in the cause of peace. Leaving her militaristic homeland, Caecilia is determined to remain true to Roman virtues while living among the Etruscans who wouldn’t know virtue, she thinks, if it bit them. But, is that statement true? Caecilia is seduced by a culture that offers women education, independence, sexual freedom, and an empowering religion. Enchanted by Veii but terrified of losing ties to Rome, Caecilia performs rites to delay becoming a mother, thereby postponing true entanglement. Increasingly she becomes torn, because she is by now in love with Mastarna, As war looms where will Caecilia’s allegiance lie? https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FP2847X6/ @ £0.99.

There is more:

!!And now, for the dp Publishers Valentine’s Giveaway Alert!! dp Publishers tell Frost Magazine: ‘Love is in the air… and so is a little treat for our readers. We’re spreading the love over on Instagram this month! ♥︎ We’ll be running a Valentine’s giveaway on the big day – giving everyone the opportunity to win some of our most-loved romance titles. So, if any readers are not following us yet, now’s the perfect time. ❥ Follow us here!

Milly Adams is the author of The Waterway Girls kindle edition: here

25 years ago, Mark Billingham’s debut novel Sleepyhead became an instant bestseller, launching a prolific career as a novelist.

Mark Billingham Image credit: Steve Best

Born in Birmingham, he worked as an actor and stand-up comedian before becoming a full-time author, best known for playing the role of Gary in the cult children’s TV show, Maid Marian and Her Merry Men. Mark continues to be a regular face and voice on TV and radio.

Sleepyhead introduced Detective Inspector Tom Thorne, leading to a further 18 books in the series, which was adapted to screen by Sky 1 in 2010, starring David Morrissey as Thorne. The latest Thorne book, What the Night Brings, was published in June 2025 – Billingham’s 25th book. Mark said: “Presuming this is not an administrative error, I could not be more thrilled or honoured. To be added to a list that features most of my literary heroes is fantastic. That so many are also friends is the icing on the cake and, for me, a mark of how very special the crime-writing community is.”

The CWA award recognises authors whose crime writing careers have been marked by sustained excellence, and who have made a significant contribution to the genre. One of the UK’s most prominent societies, it was founded in 1953 by John Creasey with the awards making an entrance in 1955 with its first award going to Winston Graham, best known for Poldark.

Recent recipients of the Diamond Dagger include Mick Herron, Lynda La Plante, James Lee Burke, Peter James, Walter Mosley, Lee Child, Lawrence Block, Ian Rankin, Michael Connelly, Lindsey Davis, Andrew Taylor, Martina Cole, Ann Cleeves, Val McDermid, Robert Goddard, Martin Edwards, Catherine Aird and Simon Brett. Past icons of the genre acknowledged with a Diamond Dagger include Ruth Rendell, PD James, Colin Dexter, Reginald Hill, and John le Carré.

In 2023, Billingham introduced a new series featuring DS Declan Miller with The Last Dance followed by The Wrong Hands (2024). The third book in the series, The Shadow Step, is due out this year. His stand-alone novels include In the Dark, Die of Shame and Rabbit Hole. A series based on the novels In the Dark and Time of Death was screened on BBC1 in 2017.

Nadine Matheson, Chair of the CWA, said: “Across a remarkable body of work, Mark has consistently set the bar for contemporary crime fiction, while also being generous with his time and support to emerging writers. His influence on the genre extends far beyond his own novels, shaping the crime writing community as a whole. For his outstanding contribution to crime fiction, his lasting impact on readers and writers alike, and his commitment to the genre, Mark Billingham is a thoroughly deserving recipient of the Diamond Dagger.”

In 2022, Billingham won the CWA’s Dagger in the Library, voted by librarians, for his body of work. He’s also been awarded the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year twice (Lazybones, 2005 and Death Message, 2009).

Sponsor of the CWA Diamond Dagger, Karen Baugh Menuhin, said: “As sponsor of the CWA Diamond Dagger, I am thrilled to congratulate Mark Billingham on being chosen as the 2026 recipient of crime fiction’s highest honour. His place amongst crime writing royalty is hard won and richly deserved.”

Mark is also a member of the rock band, The Fun Lovin’ Crime Writers, a combo of bestselling crime and thriller writers (Val McDermid, Luca Veste, Doug Johnstone, Stuart Neville, and Chris Brookmyre) who performed at Glastonbury in 2019 and 2024.

The CWA Daggers are now regarded by the publishing world as the foremost British awards for crime-writing. As the oldest awards in the genre, they have been synonymous with quality crime writing for over half a century. Nominations for the CWA Diamond Dagger are recommended by CWA members. Industry experts then narrow these down to a shortlist. The winner is then voted for by a panel of past Diamond Dagger winners. The Crime Writers Association can be found here Plus , Facebook, Twitter #CWADaggers and YouTube

Some secrets never stay buried… Nina inherits a house but what house, and from whom? A man she’s never heard of, John Moore, that’s who. But how does he know her? This is a mystery that needs unravelling, so off she goes to the south, and there it is, the house. It’s old and neglected but when she sees the door to the attic, echoes of memories are stirred.

Nina digs deeper into the house’s history, perhaps she wished she had done no such thing when a disturbing truth is revealed, which, it transpires, someone is desperate to keep hidden. Should she dig and delve, or will that bring her into danger? The Attic Room is a page turner, perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell, Shari Lapena, and Ruth Ware,  and it is FREE. Yep, that’s right. FREE. https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FMFLQ78T/

When her mirror twin goes missing, Casey is led to a deadly paradise where no one escapes… This is a tense, unputdownable psychological thriller by Bonnie Traymore.

Casey and Nora are mirror twins, for while Casey is right-handed, Nora is left and so on. In terms of personality, they are also complete opposites. So, when Nora, who is a bit of a drama queen, or perhaps just highly strung, has a fight with her husband she disappears. Should Casey be concerned, or is this a repetition, as Nora has done it before?

Her husband seems stunned, or is it bemused? Should Casey be as concerned as she is? But Casey feels something is very wrong. She hires private investigator Hank Mercer, and Hank discovers that Nora’s been on the dark web—lured by an entity that calls itself Switzerland, promising to lead you to eternal bliss, for a hefty fee. Casey sets off in pursuit, posing as a guest, arriving at a luxury wellness retreat hidden in the Mexican jungle, but she begins to feel there is something else going, something far more sinister. Will either twin survive? I am not going to tell you, so very there. It’s a good read, you’ll enjoy the ride. Pre-order today for £0.99 https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0GH2BR3PQ/

Reviewed by Milly Adams: The Waterway Girls trilogy: here @ £5.97

Image courtesy of Benjamin Ealovega

Be in no doubt that this is a very special occasion, as the London Philharmonic Orchestra is joining the London Philharmonic Choir and the Central Conservatory of Music Choir of China for Symphony Kūkai, a stirring work by composer Zou Ye.

Symphony Kūkai is a modern meditation on ancient eastern wisdom and is inspired by the odyssey of the 8th-century Japanese Master Kūkai, who journeyed across the sea to Tang-China to study esoteric Buddhism. Returning to Japan in the year 806, he brought back profound wisdom and knowledge, shaping the cultural foundation of the country. This is a story that embodies the shared wisdom of humanity, transcending nations, time, and language.

The symphony is an ambitious six-movement choral-symphonic work that tells the monumental story of Kūkai’s life. Shifting between quiet reflection and expansive grandeur, its vast choral forces perform lyrics written by Kūkai over a thousand years ago. Combining Western symphonic form with East Asian musical aesthetics, the work features unique Japanese and Chinese instruments.

This groundbreaking symphony marks a remarkable international collaboration: UK- and China-based choirs unite for a powerful expression of hope, compassion, and shared humanity. Shaped to inspire contemplation, the symphony invites listeners to reflect on their own search for meaning, Twelve centuries on, Kūkai’s wisdom feels strikingly modern to many. His words and practices are a reminder to audiences that we are all equal and capable of compassion and selflessness.

​Although the story of Kūkai might not relate to everyone directly, it touches on themes we all understand, such as a search for meaning in one’s life.’ Symphony Kūkai is an ambitious 85 minute choral symphony, composed by Zou Ye (above) for large orchestral and choral forces, commemorating the life and vision of the revered cultural figure Master Kūkai.

In the late 8th century, the young Japanese scholar monk Kūkai travelled to Tang Dynasty China in search of knowledge and deeper understanding of spiritual practice. In a short yet profound apprenticeship, he was entrusted with the vast esoteric teachings grounded in compassion, illuminated presence, and the harmony of all things. When Kūkai returned to Japan in 806, he carried with him not only spiritual insights but also a vision for human wellbeing and creativity. He introduced new approaches to education, established Japan’s first public school for common people, advanced water management systems, and fostered the arts.

He is traditionally credited with the development of a phonetic script that transformed the way the Japanese language was written and widely accessible for centuries to come.

​Performed in Mandarin with English subtitles https://www.southbankcentre.co.uk/whats-on/symphony-kukai

Tuesday 3rd February 2026 London Palladium, 8 Argyll Street, London W1F

The smash hit tour from Trevor Payne celebrates the monumental 40th anniversary tour with a very special Gala performance at the London Palladium this February. Joining them as a special guest is Britain’s Got Talent sensation Tom Ball. Filled with hits that will throw you back to the 50s and 80s, the show is also packed with sketches, adverts and more, making it an unforgettable night for all. 

If you see one show this year, see this one‘ – DailyMail. ‘Three hours of music and mayhem‘ –The Express. ‘The best rock‘n’roll show on the road ‘- Time Out.

Yes, Britain’s Got Talent and America’s Got Talent All Stars sensation Tom Ball is to be … wait for it … a special guest when it returns to the London Palladium. on 3rd February 2026. A decade after this beloved tour last packed out the iconic London venue, this return commemorates the 40th anniversary of That’ll Be The Day, dazzling audiences across the UK. Led by the show’s much-loved creator and performer, Trevor Payne, (below) and its multi-talented cast of musicians and singers.

Tom Ball brings his world class vocals to this very special performance. Since his rise to stardom Tom Ball has become an internationally acclaimed recording artist, achieving eleven No.1 global chart rankings, amassing over 140 million views online and releasing a Top 5 UK Official Charts album, CurtainCall. Ball’s special guest appearance, for That’ll Be The Day’s performance at the Palladium, will see his outstanding talents meet the wonderful ensemble and amaze the audience.

That’ll Be The Day has raised over £1 million for Childline, Make a Wish, Help for Heroes, Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation and numerous appeals, including the Red Cross Ukraine Appeal, through Post-Show bucket collections.

Don’t miss: That’ll Be The Day Tuesday 3rd February 2026

Box OfficeTickets are available from https://thatllbetheday.com/spring-tour-2026/ and https://lwtheatres.co.uk/whats-on/thatll-be-the-day-tlp

Tickets from £31 to £75 Running time 3 hours including an interval

Facebook That’llBeTheDay

Uk Instagram @tbtdshow

Whether it’s New Year’s Resolution, Veganuary or Dry January, it seems that if Christmas is about feasting, then January is all about self-denial. If you have resolved to give something up from January 1^st, and have already broken your resolve, worry not, because New Year’s Resolutions are a man-made construct, and there is no reason why you can’t start over, rather than giving up altogether. To quote Confucious, ‘A journey of a thousand miles, begins with a single step.’

Fortunately, for those of us that have decided to reduce our alcohol intake, help is at hand from Moderato, whose Cuvee Revolutionnaire range offers French-crafted alcohol free wines designed for real drinking occasions – from sparkling Blanc de Noir for celebrations, to rich Merlot-Tannat for cosy winter nights. At less that 0.5% abv these are classified as alcohol free wines.

Moderato is a French brand of high-quality, alcohol-free wines, offering red, white and sparkling options, using a gentle dealcoholisation method to preserve the original grape’s profile. Moderato was founded by wine professionals, and the result is a low sugar, low calorie drink that doesn’t sacrifice the rich flavours. It’s about discovery, not deprivation. Moderato combines the character and craftsmanship of Bordeaux and South-West France with modern and mindful drinking values. From toasting at any celebration with fine bubbles, to pairing the perfect red or white with a delicious meal, Moderato offers a stylish alternative to alcohol for any occasion.

Moderato Cuvee Revolutionnaire Merlot-Tannat (<0.5%)   According to the tasting notes this red holds the classic velvety smoothness of a Merlot, with the structure of a Tannat – a rich and delicious red made for hearty roasts, warming winter dishes and evenings by the fire. Personally, I found this a little Iight, but that may say more about my preference for more chewy tannic wines, and if I wished to drink an alcohol free red wine this would be a very acceptable substitute. Available from Vino Zero, Majestic, Wise Bartender and Club Soda. RRP £13.99  However, it is the whites that absolutely steal the show here, and Moderato Cuvee Revolutionnaire Blanc de Noir Sparkling (less than 0.5%)

Moderato Cuvee Revolutionnaire Blanc de Noir Sparkling (<0.5%) totally steals the crown, This more than delivered, and if I was served this without explanation, I would not for a minute think that this was an alcohol-free wine. I could imagine this being a welcome addition to any picnic or barbeque. An exceptional sparkling created from Merlot grapes and bursting with fruit notes enhanced by fine bubbles – the perfect alcohol-free choice for those looking to reduce alcohol intake, whilst still enjoying a celebratory moment. Available from Vino Zero, Wise Bartender and Club Soda. RRP £14.50  

Moderato Cuvee Revolutionnaire Colombard (<0.5%) was another firm favourite, a fresh and vibrant white, bringing crisp citrus and floral notes – providing a refreshing option ideal for lighter meals – an ideal pairing to smoked salmon, vegetables or lighter dishes. I was pleasantly surprised to discover that this wine has an impressive bouquet, and again I would never have guessed that this was a alcohol free wine. Available from Vino Zero, Majestic, Wise Bartender and Club Soda. RRP £13.99  

Moderato Cuvee Revolutionnaire Chardonnay   Other than the sparkling wine, this was probably my favourite, rich and complex aromas and subtle notes of fresh white fruits and woody notes, this Chardonnay is paired perfect with creamy dishes or enjoyed over a charcuterie board amongst friends. Available from Vino Zero, Wise Bartender and Club Soda RRP: £14.50    I love the idea that you could take any of these to a dinner party, or social gathering, and not feel like the odd one out, and if you are the designated driver, there is no need to give up on the fun. Until now the choice has been fruit juice, some other sweet drink, or sticking to water. Moderato seem to have changed the rules, to which I can only say, ‘Cheers.’

More information on Moderato wines here: https://le-moderato.com/en