Stay one step ahead of hay fever with hay-band

Put off eating by irritating hay fever? Then you should apply some pressure! 

The principles of ancient Chinese acupressure have been used for centuries to help treat the symptoms of allergy, including hay fever.

hay-band, a top family favourite, works by applying pressure to the acupressure point on either arm, called the LI-11 point.

Acupressure is believed to increase the flow of natural energy through the stimulation of various pressure points and in doing so, help unblock energy pathways to the nose and throat, and promote your well-being.

The LI-11 point can be found at the end of the crease at the elbow. Once located, simply slide a hay-band into position so that the button faces inwards over the pressure point, with the bands passing either side of the elbow.

The band is fast-acting and may be worn on either arm or if symptoms are acute, one can be worn on both arms. Drug-free, natural and discreet, hay-band can also be worn as a preventative.

There's no drowsiness or other unwanted side-effects and the band is suitable for adults and children over the age of three, but not suitable for use during pregnancy.

hay-band costs £13.09 per (they are washable) band and is available online from hay-band.co.uk.

Raise a Glass to Mum and Mother Nature with Candover Brook Rosé NV

This Mothering Sunday, 30th March, you can celebrate and honour the remarkable women in your life with a gift that embodies sophistication, thoughtfulness, and natural beauty. 

Candover Brook Rosé NV, an award-winning English Sparkling Wine, is the ultimate expression of love and appreciation.

Crafted in Hampshire's beautiful and idyllic Candover Valley, Candover Brook is a testament to the art of winemaking in harmony with Mother Nature. 

Nurtured in chalk-rich soils and made with a meticulous commitment to regenerative farming, this sparkling rosé celebrates conscious indulgence and refined luxury.

With its delicate blush hue, fine effervescence, and notes of wild strawberry, cranberry, and toasted brioche, Candover Brook Rosé NV delivers an enchanting sensory experience. A balance of crisp freshness and velvety smoothness makes it the ultimate toast to Mum and a thoughtful, eco-conscious alternative to chocolates and flowers.

Candover Brook is more than a vineyard, it is a legacy of sustainability and stewardship. Every bottle contributes to the protection of local biodiversity, including the endangered, white-clawed crayfish, the vineyard's emblem and a symbol of its dedication to preserving the natural world.

Luxurious gift boxes make your gift even more special, and handwritten notes are available to ensure your Mother's Day gesture is as personal as it is elegant.

Candover Brook Rosé NV is available for purchase online at www.candoverbrook.co.uk (£38 per bottle).

This Mothering Sunday, raise a glass to the extraordinary women in your life with a wine as exceptional as they are. A sparkling tribute to Mum and Mother Nature in every sip.

Longer days, lighter bites: Premium Country Pub Collection welcomes spring with new seasonal dishes

Spring is now blooming, and with it, an exciting menu has arrived at the Premium Country Pub Collection, bringing fresh seasonal flavours, vibrant ingredients, and irresistible dishes to the table. 

Famed for its collection of the finest country pubs set in some of the UKs most breathtaking locations, Premium Country Pub Collection provides the perfect setting for every occasion.  

Whether you are celebrating a milestone birthday with a three-course meal, toasting an anniversary with a bottle of chilled champagne, or simply catching up with friends over barista-made coffee, these charming venues offer a truly idyllic escape. 

As the evenings grow longer and the sunshine lingers a little later, the new and refreshed menu is bursting with vibrant ingredients offering a range of crisp, nourishing salads, tantalising vegan delights and sumptuous sharing boards. And now, with warmer days, guests can enjoy alfresco dining at its finest, unwinding in unsoaked terraces and scenic gardens.  

One of the standout additions is the new Signature Sunday Sharing Roast – a decadent sharing experience for two, showcasing the finest cuts of meat and all the traditional, delicious trimmings for an indulgent Sunday treat. 

Also coming soon is a refreshed drinks menu, featuring new additions to the Collection’s already extensive champagne and wine list, sweet and zesty cocktails perfect for summer evenings and a whole range of ‘mocktails’, made using the finest alcohol-free spirits. 

Said Paul Smith, who is Operations Director at the Premium Country Pub Collection: “We’ve worked very closely with our talented chefs to curate the perfect menu for the warmer seasons that blends classic comfort with fresh, exciting flavours.  From indulgent traditional favourites such as pan-fried sea bass fillets and 30 day-aged 10oz rib-eye steak, to decadent desserts, complete with an enticing drinks menu, every plate has been crafted to complement the premium dining experience we pride ourselves on.” 

“Our pubs are more than just places to eat; they are destinations for unforgettable moments. The new menu embodies our passion for delivering the most delicious plates in stunning surroundings, so whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or unwinding after a long countryside walk, you know you’re in the right place. 

“On behalf of the whole team, I’d like to extend a warm welcome to both familiar faces and new guests to experience the magic of the latest menu themselves – we can’t wait to welcome you!” 

Premium Country Pub Collection has also recently launched its new “Rewards by Premium Country Pub Collection” App, offering enticing loyalty rewards and exclusive offers for guests. From a complimentary glass of Moet champagne just for signing up to an entire bottle of Veuve Clicquot upon collecting all stamps, guests can be well and truly spoiled. 

To explore the full menu and sign up to the mailing list to be the first to receive updates, please visit

premiumcountrypubcollection.co.uk  

NEW Limited Edition Tormek T-1 Florentine Vibrant

With Easter bringing family feasts and roast dinners, having sharp knives is absolutely vital. 

A well-sharpened knife ensures precision when carving roasts, slicing fresh bread and cakes, or prepping vegetables, making cooking smoother, safer, and more enjoyable. 

The NEW Limited Edition Tormek T-1 Florentine Vibrant is the result of an exciting collaboration between Tormek and Florentine Kitchen Knives. 

Featuring a playfully colourful handle designed by Tomer Botner, founder of the Barcelona-based knife-making studio, this edition brings a striking contrast to the sharp, industrial aesthetic of the Tormek T-1 - making it a standout feature in any kitchen.  

Each handle is randomly assembled from a shared colour palette, meaning no two machines are identical - as each one has its own unique "fingerprint." 

RRP £ 370 from shop.tormek.co.uk

And it has an eight-year warranty, too.

Also available in the range - Zinc Gray RRP £335, Carbon Black RRP £335 and Morakniv 1891 RRP £350.

Why You Should Try Fermented Foods This Spring

As spring brings fresh beginnings and renewal, it’s the perfect time to refresh your diet with vibrant, gut-friendly fermented foods. 

Fermentation is an age-old process that enhances the flavour, nutrition, and health benefits of foods, making them a great addition to your springtime meals.

From tangy sauerkraut to creamy kefir, fermented foods can do wonders for digestion, immunity, and overall well-being. Here’s why you should incorporate them into your diet this season.

1. Fermented Foods Support Gut Health

Spring is all about rejuvenation, and your gut deserves a refresh too. Fermented foods are rich in probiotics—beneficial bacteria that support a healthy gut microbiome. A balanced gut can improve digestion, enhance nutrient absorption, and reduce bloating, making you feel lighter and more energetic.

Great options include:

Kimchi – A spicy Korean staple made from fermented cabbage and radishes.

Sauerkraut – Fermented cabbage that’s full of probiotics and vitamin C.

Kefir – A probiotic-rich dairy drink that’s a stronger gut booster than yoghurt.

2. Strengthens Your Immune System

Springtime often comes with seasonal allergies and lingering colds, but fermented foods can help. Since about 70% of the immune system is housed in the gut, a well-balanced microbiome supports a strong immune response. Probiotics from fermented foods can help regulate inflammation and fight off harmful bacteria, keeping you feeling your best.

Try:

Miso soup – A warming Japanese broth made from fermented soybeans, packed with immune-boosting compounds.

Yoghurt with live cultures – A delicious and versatile way to get beneficial bacteria.

3. Helps Detox the Body

Spring is often seen as a time to cleanse and reset. Fermented foods aid in detoxification by promoting a healthy gut, which helps your body eliminate toxins more efficiently. They also support liver function and reduce the burden on your digestive system.

Top picks for detox support:

Kombucha – A fizzy, fermented tea loaded with antioxidants.

Tempeh – A protein-rich fermented soy product that’s great for vegetarians.

4. Boosts Energy and Mood

As the days get longer, you might be looking for ways to feel more energised. Fermented foods help improve digestion, which in turn allows your body to absorb nutrients more efficiently. This can lead to better energy levels and improved mental clarity.

Additionally, gut health is closely linked to mental health. A well-balanced microbiome can help regulate mood and reduce stress, which is great for embracing the brighter days ahead.

5. Adds a Burst of Flavour to Seasonal Dishes

Spring is a time for lighter, fresher meals, and fermented foods bring an extra depth of flavour. Their tangy, umami-rich profiles can elevate simple dishes, making them more exciting and satisfying.

Ways to enjoy them this season:

Add sauerkraut or kimchi to fresh salads or sandwiches.

Stir miso paste into salad dressings for an umami kick.

Use fermented pickles as a side to balance out rich spring dishes.

Final Thoughts

Adding fermented foods to your spring diet is a delicious and natural way to boost your gut health, immunity, and overall well-being. Whether you enjoy a spoonful of yoghurt, a glass of kombucha, or a side of kimchi, your body will thank you.

So why not embrace the season of renewal by giving your diet a healthy, probiotic-rich upgrade? Your gut (and taste buds) will really thank you!

Enjoy the Wetherspoon Spring Beer Festival

Wetherspoon's Spring Real Ale Festival is back, offering a 12-day celebration of exceptional brews from Wednesday, 5 March to Sunday, 16 March 2025. 

This year's festival is particularly special, as it coincides with International Women's Day and showcases beers brewed by, or with the assistance of, female brewers, honouring the historical role of women—traditionally known as 'brewsters'—in the art of brewing.

A World bursting With Flavours

Beer enthusiasts can look forward to a selection of 30 real ales, including five international offerings making their debut at Wetherspoon pubs:

Australia: Wallaby by Penny Red

Canada: Estuary Session Ale by Land & Sea

Italy: Chocolate Porter by Birra Perugia

New Zealand: Antipodean by Brew Moon

USA: Hey Pal by Terrapin

These international brews are complemented by a diverse range of UK ales, such as Boudicca from Brains, Persephone from Brewster’s, Vienna from Harviestoun, Beerhart from Mad Squirrel, Gulpa from Redemption, and Alpha Female from Rooster’s. 

Culinary Creativity in a Glass

The festival's lineup features beers crafted with an array of malt and hop varieties from around the globe. Some brews incorporate unique ingredients like cherries and cocoa beans, offering patrons distinctive flavour profiles to explore. Additionally, several vegan-friendly options are available, ensuring there's something for everyone. 

Savour More for Less

One of the festival's highlights is the exceptional value it offers. Pints are priced from £1.69 to £1.99 at most locations, with some venues charging up to £2.49. For those eager to sample a variety of brews, the festival provides the option to enjoy three one-third-of-a-pint tasters for the price of a single pint. 

Join the Celebration

With detailed tasting notes available in pubs, on the Wetherspoon app, and on customer information screens, attendees can make informed choices and fully appreciate the nuances of each ale. Whether you're a seasoned real ale aficionado or a curious newcomer, Wetherspoon's Spring Real Ale Festival 2025 promises a welcoming and flavourful experience for all. 

Don't miss this opportunity to explore a world of flavours and celebrate the rich tradition of brewing at your local Wetherspoon pub.

And all Wetherspoon pubs serve a wide range of foods from a bowl of soup to a tasty steak dinner or a curry.

https://www.jdwetherspoon.com

25 Ways to Reduce Food Waste and Save Money

Food waste is a major issue worldwide, with millions of tonnes of perfectly edible food being discarded each year. 

Reducing food waste not only helps the environment but also saves money and ensures food resources are used more efficiently. 

Here are 25 practical ways to cut down on food waste at home and beyond.

Planning and Shopping Smart

Make a Meal Plan – Plan your meals for the week and create a shopping list to avoid unnecessary purchases.

Check Your Inventory – Before heading to the shop, check your fridge and cupboards to avoid buying duplicates.

Stick to a Shopping List – Impulse purchases often lead to wasted food. Stick to your planned list.

Buy Loose Produce – Only purchase the amount of fruit and veg you actually need instead of pre-packaged quantities.

Understand Expiry Dates – ‘Best before’ dates indicate quality, not safety. Many foods are still good past this date.

Storage and Organisation

Store Food Correctly – Learn where to store different foods to maximise freshness. For example, keep potatoes and onions separate.

Use the First In, First Out Rule – When restocking your fridge or pantry, place older items in front so they get used first.

Freeze Leftovers – If you’ve made too much food, freeze it for later instead of letting it spoil.

Use Airtight Containers – Properly sealing food helps prevent spoilage and keeps it fresher for longer.

Label and Date Food – Marking dates on leftovers or frozen items ensures you know when they should be consumed.

Cooking and Portion Control

Cook in Smaller Batches – Cooking only what you need reduces the chances of leftovers going uneaten.

Measure Ingredients Properly – Avoid excess by using measuring cups and scales to cook appropriate portions.

Repurpose Leftovers – Transform last night’s dinner into a new meal, such as using roast chicken for sandwiches or soups.

Make Soup or Stock – Use vegetable scraps and bones to create homemade stock or soup instead of throwing them away.

Use Every Part of the Ingredient – Don’t throw away broccoli stalks or carrot tops—many ‘scraps’ can be eaten or repurposed, especially in soups or stocks.

Getting Creative with Surplus Food

Blend Overripe Fruit – Make smoothies, jams, or fruit compotes from overripe fruit instead of binning them.

Make Homemade Breadcrumbs – Stale bread can be turned into breadcrumbs, croutons, or even bread pudding.

Pickle or Ferment Veg – Extend the shelf life of vegetables by pickling or fermenting them.

Use Citrus Peels – Zest from lemons and oranges can add flavour to dishes or be used for homemade cleaning solutions.

Make Banana Bread – Overripe bananas are perfect for baking instead of throwing them out.

Community and Composting

Share Excess Food – If you have too much food, offer it to friends, family, or neighbours.

Donate to Food Banks – Unopened, non-perishable foods can help those in need.

Start Composting – Turn unavoidable food scraps into nutrient-rich compost for your garden.

Feed Animals – Some food scraps, like vegetable peels, can be fed to pets or farm animals.

Join a Food Waste App – Use apps like Olio or Too Good To Go to share or rescue surplus food.

By following these tips, you can significantly reduce food waste, save money, and contribute to a more sustainable planet. Small changes add up, so start today and make a difference!

50% of Belgians think food labelling should be improved

A comprehensive study undertaken by NSF, a global force in food safety and quality, shows has only 50% of Belgian consumers believe current food labels provide sufficient information to make informed food choices. 

This finding comes as part of a broader research initiative that questioned 1,000 Belgian adults, shedding light on the critical role of food labelling in shaping consumer decisions and promoting public health in Belgium.

Katie Glover, EMEA Manager, Regulatory Affairs and Trading Law at NSF, commented on the findings: “This research underscores a major gap between consumer expectations and current labelling practices. It’s clear to us that the food industry must take decisive action to enhance transparency and comprehensiveness in food labeling to meet the evolving needs of Belgian consumers.”

Key findings from the NSF study include:

73% of Belgian adults read food labels before making a purchase decision, with this figure rising to 83% among 18-34-year-olds.

75% of respondents consider more detailed allergen information the most valuable addition to food labels, followed by comprehensive processing information (72%).

47% of Belgian consumers are willing to pay more for products with comprehensive, transparent labelling, with an average premium of 10-12%.

Only 38% of respondents believe current labels adequately address sustainability concerns, highlighting a significant gap in consumer expectations.

65% of consumers consider environmental impact scores a useful addition to food labelling, reflecting growing sustainability concerns.

While these gaps present several challenges to the food industry, they also offer significant opportunities for innovation, relevance, and growth. 

As the Belgian food landscape continues to evolve to cater to consumers who are increasingly motivated by personal health concerns and broader environmental considerations, food manufacturers must address this call for greater transparency.

Glover went on to say: “The fact half of Belgian consumers feel they are inadequately informed by current food labels is a clear call to action for the industry. 

"By prioritising clarity, standardisation, and transparency in food labelling, we can empower consumers to make more informed decisions about their food choices. This not only contributes to better public health outcomes but also fosters a more sustainable food system and builds greater trust between food manufacturers and the Belgian public.”

NSF remains committed to working with the food industry to develop innovative solutions that meet evolving consumer expectations and regulatory requirements. The full whitepaper, offering detailed insights and recommendations, is available on the NSF website.

For more information about food labelling requirements and NSF's services, visit nsf.org.

Hampshire and Surrey Hills Men’s Choir is running a “Taster Evening” at Hogs Back Brewery on 16th April

The acclaimed Hampshire and Surrey Hills Men’s Choir has announced a “Taster Evening” to be run at Hogs Back Brewery on Wednesday 16th April at 6:30 p.m. to encourage men into singing in a choir.

Following a very successful similar event focused around Camberley in 2024, and which led to 15 new members permanently joining, the choir is now inviting men from Farnham and surrounding areas to come along to a fun evening at the iconic home of local Surrey beers – the Hogs Back Brewery at Tongham which is near to Farnham. 

The choir is seeking both experienced singers and those who haven’t even sung since schooldays to have a go. 

There's no audition to join in, no need to be able to read music and everyone will enjoy a free drink, a snack and a short singing session guided by the choir’s exceptional Music Director, Philip Viveash-Brainch. 

There is no charge for taking part, but pre-booking is requested for catering numbers – at https://www.trybooking.com/uk/ECIV.

Announcing the event, Peter Viveash, the Chairman of Hampshire and Surrey Hills Men’s Choir, said “We are very passionate about spreading the word to men about both the physical and mental health benefits of singing in a choir.” 

He went on to say: “No one should be be nervous about trying us out – we have a great deal of fun while being expertly tutored and supported by our MD”.

https://www.hampshireandsurreyhillsmenschoir.org.uk

A Feast Fit for Mum: Special Meals for Mothering Sunday

Mothering Sunday is a perfect, wonderful opportunity to show appreciation for the incredible mums in our lives. 

What better way to do so than with a beautifully prepared meal? 

Whether you're planning a decadent breakfast, a lavish lunch, or a delightful afternoon tea, we have plenty of ideas to help you create a memorable dining experience for your mum, or the mother figure in your life.

Here’s a range of special meals to consider for the occasion.

Breakfast in Bed: A Luxurious Start

Begin the day with a delicious and beautifully presented breakfast in bed. Consider these options:

Classic Eggs Benedict – Poached eggs, ham, and hollandaise sauce on an English muffin for a rich and wonderfully indulgent start.

Fluffy Pancakes with Berries & Honey – Serve with clotted cream and a drizzle of local honey for an extra touch of luxury.

Homemade Granola & Yoghurt – A lighter but still special choice, packed with nuts, seeds, and dried fruit.

Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice & Coffee – No breakfast is complete without a fresh, invigorating drink.

Lavish Mother’s Day Lunch

For a truly indulgent meal, consider preparing a three-course lunch. Here’s a menu that will make the day feel extra special:

Starter:

Creamy Leek & Potato Soup – Served with warm, crusty bread and a swirl of cream.

Smoked Salmon & Avocado Salad – A light but elegant way to begin the meal.

Main Course:

Traditional Sunday Roast – Roast beef, lamb, or chicken with all the trimmings, including Yorkshire puddings and rich gravy.

Stuffed Butternut Squash (Vegetarian Option) – Filled with quinoa, feta, and roasted vegetables for a wholesome treat.

Dessert:

Raspberry & White Chocolate Cheesecake – Creamy and indulgent, perfect for a sweet ending.

Lemon Drizzle Cake – A zesty, refreshing choice that pairs beautifully with tea.

Afternoon Tea Delights

A classic afternoon tea is a wonderful way to celebrate Mothering Sunday. Create an elegant spread with:

Finger Sandwiches – Fill them with cucumber & cream cheese, smoked salmon, or egg & cress.

Homemade Scones – Serve with clotted cream and jam for a quintessentially British treat.

Mini Victoria Sponges – Light sponge cakes filled with jam and cream.

Selection of Fine Teas – Earl Grey, Darjeeling, or herbal infusions for a relaxing experience.

Elegant Mother’s Day Dinner

End the day on a high note with a candlelit dinner. Some wonderful options include:

Starter: Goat’s Cheese Tartlets with Caramelised Onion

Main: Pan-Seared Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce & Asparagus

Dessert: Dark Chocolate Fondant with Vanilla Ice Cream

Pair the meal with a glass of prosecco or a special non-alcoholic cocktail.

Final Touches to Make It Extra Special

Personalised Menus – Print or handwrite a little menu for the meal.

Fresh Flowers – A simple bouquet can brighten the table.

Handmade Treats – Send mum home with a small box of homemade truffles or biscuits.

However you choose to celebrate, the most important thing is the love and effort you put into making Mothering Sunday truly special. Happy cooking, and happy Mother’s Day!