Get Set for The Spirit Show launching December ’16

Posted on June 15, 2016 by Kesh

This Winter see’s the UK launch of the alcohol industry’s hotly tipped Premium Spirit Show and we’re happy to announce its going to be hosted it in good ol’ London Town. Taking place at The Business Design Centre in the heart of Angel, traders from all ends of the Spirit world… not the phantom kind, will be showcasing their brands to traders and consumers alike. From a host of Premium Whisky Distilleries to a number of Boutique Gin and Vodka producers, this will certainly be the place to be for all customers/traders wishing to explore something old or new and discover something inspiring. With Organisers expecting close to 10,000 visitors over the two-day duration, no wonder it has been billed as “The Ultimate Tasting Event.”

The Spirit Show will focus on it’s premium market of Whiskies, Gin, Vodka and Rum but will also feature Champagnes, Wines and Fine Foods making it the ultimate fancy, boozy weekend. The weekend will also feature tastings and expert discussions, cookery demo’s and a host of other fun-filled activities all set within a backdrop of Live Music, entertainment and some other surprises.

We’re sure this is going to be a sell out so get into the Christmas Spirit and sign up for The Spirit Show’s newsletter for information about pre-sale tickets. Corporate and group packages are also available in case you fancy ditching The Christmas Party. Or avoid the Christmas Party complete and impress someone with the must have ticket of the year.

Ticket’s will be launched soon so sign up for info here;

The Spirit Show

December 9-10

The Business Design Centre,
Upper Street
Angel Islington.

Spoil Dad with Steak this Father’s Day

Posted on June 15, 2016 by Kesh

Say it with Steak this Father’s Day with the luckiest of all gifts. This Sunday, Heliot Steak House inside the infamous Hippodrome Casino are hosting a mammoth treat for all Dad’s who love nothing more than a hearty Steak Supper. Treat Dad to A Giant Steak Supper which includes a free drink and you’ll be rewarded with a £50 Win Chip for Dad to have a little flutter. Select from a number of mouth-watering cuts of their USDA Prime Beef Steaks and not only will you be upgraded to a large Steak for free but you can also choose from a free pint of a glass of wine for Dad too.

So Steak your bets and choose from London’s only Crap’s Table, Poker or a number of fantastic Casino games with your £50 Chip. Needless to say this is only one for the big kids as the Casino operates a strict over 21’s policy.

Heliot Steak House

Cranbourn Street
Leicester Square
WC2H 7JH

http://www.hippodromecasino.com/restaurant-bars-lounges/

Top 10 Unobtainable Dreams For Young People

Posted on June 14, 2016 by Catherine Balavage

Millennial have it hard, that is common knowledge. Tuition fees are higher than ever, houses are too expensive, and, if you are lucky to go to university or buy a home, the debt will be huge. Sadly, it seems that three quarters of young Brits feel like they will never achieve their dreams. It is not true of course. Everyone can and Frost will be publishing lots of finance and work articles to help you achieve your dreams. We want to give people the power to take hold of their own lives. Contact us to let us know what you want us to cover, or how you feel about your life in general. Meanwhile, let us now if you agree with the latest stats below.

Having a successful career, going to university and owning a house are seen as ‘fantasies’ for millions of young people, according to new research.

Three quarters of Brits aged 16-25 are also unconvinced they’ll ever be able to land a job they love – something which was far more achievable for the previous generation.

Eight in 10 young people said they fear other people going for the same positions as them are stronger candidates with better CVs and better experience.

One in 10 don’t think they’ll be able to go to university, while owning a house is considered to be completely unobtainable by 40 per cent of respondents.

Living debt free, being able to cope without relying on parents for financial support, and earning more than the average British salary of £26,500 are also seen as unattainable.

While the study of 1,500 16 to 25 year-olds, conducted by vInspired to mark the end of Volunteers’ Week 2016, also found out 42 per cent consider travelling the world to be a pipedream.

Jessica Taplin, CEO of vInspired, the UK’s leading youth volunteering charity, said: “The results highlight the pressures young people face today.

“Access to the job market, uncertain financial futures and mental health issues are all problems we see young people come up against first-hand.

“However, we believe that there are other ways young people can gain valuable experience and make them more employable despite some challenging economic circumstances.”

Many young adults don’t think they’ll ever be able to move to a major city such as London or Manchester due to high living costs, competition for jobs and house prices.

A further 15 per cent say they have no hope of ever buying their own car, and 17 per cent say having a family seems unrealistic at the moment.

Going to University feels unachievable for 13 per cent of those aged 16 to 25, while 16 per cent don’t feel like anyone would ever want to take a chance of them.

When it comes to securing their ideal job, seven in 10 people polled said the competition nowadays is so intense they would need completely new qualifications in order to stand any chance at all of success.

Yet 87 per cent of respondents said the high cost of gaining an education is massively impacting their chances of getting the job they’ve always wanted.

But three quarters of people polled recognise that doing voluntary work would make them more employable.

Perhaps as a result, 77 per cent of respondents are currently volunteering or would consider doing so in the future.

Two thirds of Brits aged 16-25 said volunteering could inspire them to pursue a career they may not have otherwise considered.

And around 80 per cent of participants think volunteering can teach you things a degree or other postgraduate qualifications might not, thus making them more employable.

Two thirds of respondents said voluntary work meant they could “make a difference”, while over 56 per cent said it gives you motivation and half says it makes you more open-minded.

Jessica Taplin said: “We know that the skills young people gain when volunteering help increase wellbeing and lead to employability.

“So we’re delighted to see from this survey that so many young people really value their volunteering experience.

“vInspired is all about supporting young people into volunteering and enabling them to better harness the benefits of this.”

Nine in 10 respondents think it is harder now than ever before to standout from other job candidates.

TOP 10 UNOBTAINABLE DREAMS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

1. Travelling the world

2. Owning a house/getting on the property ladder

3. Earning more than the average British salary (£26,500)

4. Being debt free

5. Reaching the top of your career ladder

6. Getting a job you love

7. Not having to borrow additional funds to get by

8. Not having to depend on other people such as parents for financial support

9. Having the opportunity to gain experience in pursuit of your dream job

10. Moving to a major city such as London or Manchester

Glamping near Hellfire Pass by Alex Bannard: our Thailand Correspondent

Posted on June 14, 2016 by Margaret Graham

One of the hottest summers in Thailand has just drawn to a close and as the rainy season dawned, Alex Bannard and her family joined friends glamping near Hellfire Pass.

It was to be a compensation prize after Alex’s husband’s ‘blokes’ fishing weekend seemed to hook only appalling seasickness, and no fish. As Alex says: thinking we were going to Khao Yai I was vaguely surprised to learn we were actually going to be based in a campsite north of Kanchanburi near Hellfire Pass. The kids were excited at the prospect of going glamping, if not at little confused by the prospect of glamourous camping.

We left early and made the journey across Bangkok in around 20 mins. Amazing how easy it is to navigate the city when there is no traffic. And it afforded us an unplanned stop off at Kanchanburi to see a train cross the bridge over the River Kwae and pop into a friend’s newly opened waterpark. The park was fun. My 8 year old was so brave tackling the steepest slide and as we embarked on the last leg of the journey to Hintock Camp site we were refreshed.

As we approached the campsite we drove through the nearby village where villagers were dancing along the road celebrating the nuns who were leaving for their spiritual journey at a nearby temple. The celebrations lasted until late into the evening and kicked off again at 4am as they finally left for their new life.

The campsite did not disappoint: the tent’s were raised off the ground on stilts, had their own outdoor bathrooms, proper beds, even A/C. This is how camping should be – glamping. The kids ran around the campsite whilst the grown ups enjoyed a celebratory G&T or several. Then the heavens opened and the evening BBQ buffet around the campfire was relocated to the restaurant over looking the river. Although there was not much sleep to be had thanks to the nuns’ farewell in the village next door.

The next day we had a blissfully relaxing day at the campsite, whose tropical gardens were the perfect back drop to games of cricket and lazy coffees. Just before lunch attempts at fishing commenced. Mr P aced it catching 2 fish almost immediately. The mums took the children to the fresh spring pool, with stunning views over the river. That afternoon after a heavenly head and shoulder massage we took the kids on a long tail boat ride down the river. And we celebrated the end of a fabulous day rain-free by the campfire.

All too soon it was time to leave but not before we wandered over a nearby suspension bridge to investigate a small temple and it’s 5 huge Buddhas which reside next to it before heading to Hellfire Pass. Walking along the path which had been carved out of the rocks by hand by British, Australian & Dutch POW’s and local’s it is not hard to imagine the ghastly inhumane conditions those men had to endure.

12,000 POW’s died subjected to brutal working and living conditions, with little food, very limited medicine and absolutely no comfort. Hellfire’s Pass is so called because the men often worked their 15-18 hour shifts in firelight, emaciated and exhausted. It certainly gave me something to reflect upon on the journey home especially one of the quotes on the memorial plaques: ‘Go home and tell them, they gave up their tomorrow’s for your today.’ And we should never forget the bravery of previous generations who fought for the democracy, safety and peace we enjoy.

Of course with children in tow we could not explore the full path and one day I will walk the full 7km pass. But for now it was enough. Besides the heavens opened, well it is rainy season after all, lightening the mood, drenching but refreshing us and hastening us towards the car and the journey back to Bangkok. But of course, we will not forget, and we will return.

Anthology shows off North East’s poetic prowess

Posted on June 13, 2016 by Margaret Graham

A SPECIALLY commissioned anthology of North East poetry is set to be launched by the Northern Poetry Library.

‘Among Woods and Water’ is a collection of poems penned by Northern Poetry Library poets in residence and celebrates the region’s poetic legacy, and future.

The works also reflect the experiences of the poets in residence who have spent time with members of the public across the library’s native North East, working with the community groups to explore different poetic forms and encourage more people to create poetry.

The anthology features one original poem by each of the six poets and separate collaborative pieces devised by groups.

Lisa Matthews, the Northern Poetry Library’s lead poet in residence, said: “Among Woods and Water is a beautiful exploration of North East poetry.

Our poets were commissioned to create pieces that speak about the region and most importantly the people who inspire all of the works in our library.

“This anthology is an important record of the communities they worked with, and their poetic experiences and feelings.”

Pieces in the anthology span a wide range of subjects from landscapes, identity, and mortality.

A series of live readings will help to launch the anthology in the North East.

The events include:

June 9, John Challis at Newcastle University Percy Building G.05 – 5-7pm
July 7, Jo Colley and Lisa Matthews at Morpeth Library, The Chantry – 3:30pm
July 12, Carolyn Jess-Cooke at Alnwick Bailiffgate – 7pm
July 14, Degna Stone at Berwick Library – 2pm

More information about the anthology and the events programme can be found on the NPL’s new website http://northernpoetrylibrary.org.uk

Review: Ross at Chichester Festival Theatre

Posted on June 10, 2016 by Vicky Edwards

Joseph Fiennes leads the cast in in Terence Rattigan’s bio-drama about TE Lawrence

Photographs: Johan Persson

When it comes to writing repressed and complex characters Rattigan is something of a dab hand. The life of TE Lawrence, therefore, gives him plenty to work with.

The story is well known, not least thanks to David Lean’s epic (if not strictly accurate) movie, Lawrence of Arabia. But while the play is light on Hollywood glitz, the writing is pure class. Rattigan’s account of how Lawrence (who was routinely beaten as a child and was a repressed homosexual) rose from being a civilian in the Map Office to a celebrity who led the unconventional but effective 1916-18 Arab Revolt against the Turks is both compelling and disturbing.

The play opens in a far less exotic setting than the Middle East. Having chosen to hide himself away from public scrutiny by assuming a false name and joining the lowly ranks of the RAF, at a base in Uxbridge Aircraftman ‘Ross’ is being charged with insubordination.

Asked to explain his unauthorised absence of the previous night, his insistence that he was dining with Lord and Lady Astor, The Arch Bishop of Canterbury and Mr and Mrs George Bernard Shaw is deemed outrageous cheek. But while his superiors don’t believe him, one of his fellows does. Having assured himself of Ross’s real identity, the opportunity for blackmail is too easy to resist. Cue the beginning of Lawrence’s Arabian story, told through a malaria-induced flashback.

Designer William Dudley uses every inch of Chichester’s thrust stage to evoke the sense of desert expanse, with occasional black and white film footage aiding historical context.

There is much to admire in Adrian Noble’s polished production, but one of the greatest joys is the casting. Without a single ‘slightly less than’ contribution, the overall result is absolutely cohesive and effortlessly fluid.

Joseph Fiennes is superb. Perfectly judging Lawrence’s complexities and contradictions, every nuance is beautifully captured.

Michael Feast is terrifyingly brilliant as the Turkish Military Governor (his vile orders being audibly carried out make for uncomfortable listening and saw theatre-goers shifting awkwardly in their seats), while Paul Freeman as General Allenby and Peter Polycarpou Sheik Auda Abu Tayi also achieve gear changes between light and shade with dexterity and conviction. But it is undeniably a magnificent Team Effort.

A maverick, the conquering hero, an intellectual who was profoundly driven, what is perhaps most interesting about the Lawrence story is the essence of the man himself; someone plagued by demons who waged their own war on him. And someone who longed, more than anything, to fit in and belong.

Highly recommended and with a short run, this ticket looks likely to be as hot as desert sand. Get in quick.

Until 25 June. Box Office: 01243 781312 www.cft.org.uk

Add Some Zest To Your Summer With Cîroc Pink Grapefruit

Posted on June 10, 2016 by Frostie

Frost stumbled across this discovery and thought it looked interesting: CÎROC vodka launches a new summer variant, available only in the UK

CÎROC unveils a vibrant new summer infusion to its family of bespoke vodkas.

Available exclusively in the UK, this lively new addition is a subtle blend of CÎROC with a hint of refreshing citrus pink grapefruit – the perfect serve to enjoy celebrating with friends on summer evenings.

Zesty and fresh on the palate, with a fragrant hint of orange blossom, CÎROC Pink Grapefruit is best enjoyed as CÎROC Sea Breeze, with a splash of cranberry juice and squeeze of fresh lime, creating a modern twist on the popular vodka serve. Alternatively, try the CÎROC Pink Grapefruit & Sage Smash, a medley of fresh sage leaves, lemon juice, pink grapefruit juice and soda over ice. This simple, zingy drink is the epitome of summer sophistication.

Skilfully created by CÎROC Master Distiller Jean-Sébastien Robiquet, CÎROC is crafted exclusively using vodka that is five-times distilled from fine French grapes for supreme taste. Real citrus extract, from the peels and oils of the pink grapefruit, has been gently infused with the vodka to create CÎROC Pink Grapefruit for the ultimate refreshing taste and smooth finish.

This seventh edition to be added to the brand’s collection marks the first citrus variety of CÎROC. Recognised as one of the best-loved citrus flavours amongst Brits, the latest variant is sure to be as successful as the hugely popular release of CÎROC Pineapple in 2015.

CÎROC Pink Grapefruit is available from selected retailers nationwide, sainsburys.co.uk, tesco.com, waitress,com, at an RRP of £38 per 70cl bottle.

Gear4 BookCase Phone Case Review

Posted on June 10, 2016 by Frostie

I love the Gear4 BookCase phone cover for my iPhone 6. It is stylish, well made, and it really works. I rarely use my purse now, I just take my phone and put my debit card into the slot. It has D30 world beating protection. In fact, it is military standard and exceeds 9ft in the drop test. This protective wallet has all round protection and a viewing standard. It may have unbeatable shock protection, but is also soft and flexible. It does the job and is handsome to boot. What more could you want?

Available for Samsung S6, S6 Edge/S6 Edge Plus, iPhone 5/5s, 6/6s/ and 6s Plus

Providing advanced impact protection, the GEAR4 BookCase features a stylish flip-over screen cover and magnetic closure offering complete protection. It includes two card slots ideal for those who like to keep their phone and wallet in one place, plus a convenient stand feature for watching movies while commuting.

Gear4 Folio Book Case Cover for iPhone 6 is available here.k

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