Springtime Soups: Lighter, Brighter Bowls for the Season

As the chill of winter fades and spring awakens with vibrant greens and fresh flavours, it’s the perfect time to transition from the hearty, heavier soups to lighter, brighter bowls. 

Springtime soups celebrate the season’s freshest produce, offering a delicious and nourishing way to embrace the change in weather. 

Whether you’re craving a delicate broth, a zesty chilled soup, or a creamy but healthy blend, there’s a perfect spring soup for everyone.

In this blog post, we’ll explore a variety of spring-inspired soups that highlight seasonal ingredients and bring a touch of sunshine to your bowl.

The Beauty of Springtime Soups

Spring soups differ from their winter counterparts in a few key ways:

Lighter Broths – Instead of thick and heavy bases, spring soups often use clear or lightly creamy broths to keep them refreshing.

Seasonal Vegetables – Spring brings an abundance of fresh produce, such as asparagus, peas, leeks, radishes, and early potatoes.

Zesty & Herbaceous Notes – Fresh herbs like basil, dill, mint, and parsley add a burst of flavour, while citrus zest and vinegar brighten the taste.

Chilled Options – Some spring soups are best served cold, making them perfect for warm days.

Five Refreshing Springtime Soup Recipes

1. Classic Spring Pea & Mint Soup

A celebration of spring in a bowl, this soup is vibrant, naturally sweet, and bursting with freshness.

Ingredients:

500g fresh or frozen peas

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 garlic clove, minced

750ml vegetable stock

A handful of fresh mint leaves

2 tbsp Greek yoghurt (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

Sauté the onion and garlic in a little olive oil until soft.

Add the peas and vegetable stock, bringing to a gentle simmer for about 5 minutes.

Stir in the fresh mint, then blend until smooth.

Season with salt and pepper, and serve with a dollop of Greek yoghurt. (Pea and mint soup is a favourite with my wife and I.)

2. Asparagus & Lemon Soup

This light and tangy soup is packed with the delicate flavour of fresh asparagus and a hint of citrus.

Ingredients:

1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed and chopped

1 leek, sliced

750ml vegetable stock

Zest and juice of 1 lemon

100ml cream (or dairy-free alternative)

Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

Sauté the leek in a little olive oil until soft.

Add the asparagus and vegetable stock, simmering for 10 minutes.

Blend until smooth, then stir in the lemon juice, zest, and cream.

Season to taste and serve with crusty bread.

3. Chilled Cucumber & Yoghurt Soup

A cooling soup that’s ideal for warmer spring days.

Ingredients:

1 large cucumber, peeled and chopped

250ml Greek yoghurt

1 garlic clove, minced

A handful of fresh dill

Juice of half a lemon

Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

Blend all ingredients together until smooth.

Chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving.

Garnish with extra dill and a drizzle of olive oil.

4. Light Spring Minestrone

A delicate take on the classic, using fresh spring vegetables.

Ingredients:

1 small leek, sliced

1 courgette, chopped

1 carrot, diced

750ml vegetable stock

100g baby spinach

1 tin of cannellini beans, drained

A handful of fresh basil

Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

Sauté the leek, courgette, and carrot in a little olive oil.

Add the vegetable stock and simmer for 10 minutes.

Stir in the beans and spinach, cooking for another 2 minutes.

Finish with fresh basil and season to taste.

5. Carrot, Ginger & Coconut Soup

A warming yet light soup with a hint of spice and creaminess.

Ingredients:

500g carrots, peeled and chopped

1 small onion, chopped

1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated

750ml vegetable stock

200ml coconut milk

Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

Sauté the onion and ginger until fragrant.

Add the carrots and vegetable stock, simmering for 15 minutes.

Blend until smooth, then stir in the coconut milk.

Season to taste and serve warm.

Final Thoughts

Spring soups are the perfect way to enjoy the season’s fresh ingredients in a light yet satisfying way. Whether you prefer a warm and comforting bowl or a refreshing chilled soup, there are endless possibilities to explore.

Do you have a favourite springtime soup? Let us know in the comments below!

Homemade Dressings and Vinaigrettes That Are Perfect for Spring

As spring arrives, bringing with it an abundance of fresh vegetables and leafy greens, it's the perfect time to elevate your salads with homemade dressings and vinaigrettes. 

Ditch shop-bought versions, which often contain unnecessary preservatives and artificial ingredients, and opt for these fresh, flavourful, and easy-to-make dressings instead. 

Here are some truly delightful homemade recipes to complement your springtime meals.

1. Classic Lemon & Herb Vinaigrette

This light and zesty dressing is perfect for fresh green salads, grilled asparagus, or even drizzled over roasted new potatoes.

Ingredients:

60ml (4 tbsp) extra virgin olive oil

30ml (2 tbsp) fresh lemon juice

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tsp honey or maple syrup

1 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley (or basil)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Method:

Whisk together the lemon juice, mustard, garlic, and honey in a small bowl.

Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify.

Stir in the fresh herbs, season to taste, and serve.

2. Balsamic & Honey Vinaigrette

A rich, slightly sweet vinaigrette that pairs beautifully with spring greens, strawberries, or goat’s cheese salads.

Ingredients:

60ml (4 tbsp) balsamic vinegar

125ml (½ cup) extra virgin olive oil

1 tbsp honey

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1 small shallot, finely minced

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Method:

In a bowl or jar, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, mustard, and shallot.

Gradually add the olive oil while whisking until the mixture thickens.

Season to taste and serve over your favourite salad.

3. Creamy Avocado Dressing

Perfect for drizzling over crisp greens or as a dip for raw veggies, this creamy dressing is full of healthy fats and fresh flavour.

Ingredients:

1 ripe avocado

60ml (4 tbsp) Greek yoghurt

30ml (2 tbsp) lime juice

1 clove garlic, minced

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp chopped fresh coriander or parsley

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Method:

Blend all ingredients in a food processor or blender until smooth.

If too thick, add a splash of water to achieve the desired consistency.

Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

4. Honey Mustard Dressing

This sweet and tangy dressing is a versatile addition to salads, grain bowls, or even as a marinade for chicken or tofu.

Ingredients:

60ml (4 tbsp) olive oil

30ml (2 tbsp) apple cider vinegar

1 tbsp Dijon mustard

1 tbsp honey

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Method:

Whisk all ingredients together in a bowl until well combined.

Adjust the seasoning as needed.

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

5. Sesame Ginger Dressing

This Asian-inspired dressing is ideal for drizzling over slaws, noodle salads, or grilled vegetables.

Ingredients:

60ml (4 tbsp) toasted sesame oil

30ml (2 tbsp) rice vinegar

1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari

1 tbsp honey or maple syrup

1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

1 clove garlic, minced

Method:

Combine all ingredients in a small jar and shake well to mix.

Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Drizzle over your favourite Asian-inspired dishes. (This is our favourite recipe as we both love ginger!)

Final Thoughts

Homemade dressings and vinaigrettes are not only healthier but also more flavourful and customisable to your taste. Experiment with different herbs, oils, and acids to create unique combinations. Whether you're tossing together a quick weekday salad or preparing a beautiful springtime spread, these dressings will add a delicious finishing touch.

Have a favourite homemade dressing? Share your go-to recipe in the comments below!

Acclaimed Sri Lankan restaurant launches 5-course tasting menu

Colombo Kitchen, the famed Sri Lankan restaurant in Worcester Park and Putney, London, is launching its inaugural five-course tasting menu, offering a culinary journey reflecting the rich flavour of Sri Lanka. 

This menu, available alongside their a la carte menu, features dishes such as:

Grilled Prawns in Lime and Coconut Salsa served with gotukola: Succulent prawns marinated and grilled to perfection, served with a tangy lime and coconut salsa and gotukola (a Sri Lankan green).

Thali with assorted Curries: A traditional Sri Lankan platter featuring a selection of the restaurant's favorite curries, providing a diverse tasting experience.

Dubai Chocolate Pistachio Biscuit Pudding: A delightful dessert inspired by the viral Dubai chocolate and pistachio combination, reimagined in a traditional Sri Lankan chocolate biscuit pudding.

This tasting menu is a testament to the culinary expertise of their Executive Chef Sylvia Perera, who was honored as National Chef of the Year at the Asian Restaurant Awards 2024. Additionally, the restaurant's renowned lamprais received a prestigious 2-star Great Taste Award from the Guild of Fine Food in 2024.

Chef Perera took inspiration from her coastal upbringing in Negombo, where she would buy the freshest seafood from local fishermen, an experience affectionately known as "Lellama,". 

Chef Sylvia says “This menu evokes cherished memories of growing up in Negombo - a town celebrated for its seafood. During my time there, I developed a deep understanding of how delicately seafood should be handled and honed in the skill of selecting the best seafood and preparing them to perfection.” 

Colombo Kitchen's new tasting menu offers an opportunity to experience the depth and diversity of Sri Lankan flavours, skilfully crafted by an award-winning chef. Available in both branches in Worcester Park and Putney, throughout the week with three days advance notice. Book online at www.colombokitchen.co.uk.

EHL Insights Report: Food and Well-Being 2025

"Evolving food attitudes shaping the future of health, hospitality and education"

EHL is justifiably proud to announce the launch of the Food and Well-being 2025 report. The report is written with the contribution of Intesa Sanpaolo, with the aim of collaborating on research, industry and education projects to drive innovation in the international hospitality sector.

The Food and Well-being 2025 report, accompanied by a host of related activities, has been carefully crafted for the global hospitality industry from restaurateurs and hotel operators to large-scale food service players, as well as related stakeholders such as educators and policy makers.

Based on the future of food and its critical intersection with well-being and hospitality, this report provides thought leadership and actionable strategies to empower industry stakeholders wanting to redefine the food landscape. 

Written by EHL experts and professors, and led by EHL Innovation Hub, it is designed to offer a wide range of insights and examples of evolving food trends based on in-depth interviews and research analysis from the field.

The Food & Wellbeing Report shows how research-backed insights are cornerstones of the EHL Innovation Hub, guiding innovators and industry leaders. By examining both short and long-term trends, this report provides the tools to stay ahead, proactively shape the future, and drive business-ready innovation in hospitality and related industries.

Insights from the report:

Food as the cornerstone of well-being: Evolving beyond its traditional role as a source of sustenance, food nurtures not only the body but also mental health and the fabric of community. The concept of Food Well-Being (FWB) captures this multifaceted impact, highlighting food's role in bringing pleasure, purpose, health, sustainability and a sense of belonging into our daily lives. This premise becomes a key definer of the modern hospitality industry.

Consumer trends and the conscious shift: Consumers are making more mindful food choices, prioritizing health, transparency and sustainability. This shift is impacting hospitality offers, from personalized nutrition to plant-forward menus and tech-enhanced dining experiences. Understanding these new demands is pivotal across sectors, from industry to education, to inform the way businesses innovate and schools train future professionals.

Hospitality’s role in promoting well-being: Through innovative practices like planetary diet offers, social eating initiatives or just small shifts in their existing offering, hospitality providers can create environments that support both hedonic (pleasure-driven) and eudaimonic (purpose-driven) well-being. The report's findings uphold the growing importance of cross-disciplinary, continuous education to meet these expectations effectively.

Challenges and opportunities: While the rise of the conscious consumer signals progress, it also presents challenges, such as the increased spread of misinformation, systemic inequalities in access to healthy food and the complexities of sustainable food sourcing. Innovations in technology and education, alongside stronger commitments to shared responsibility, offer pathways to address these issues.

Opportunities for stakeholders: For hospitality businesses – developing new practices and offers in collaboration with innovators, nutritionists and local communities. For chefs and operators - leading through culinary innovation, advocating for nutritious, sustainable options without compromising on taste or experience. For policy makers and educators – creating curricula that align with the principles of well-being and sustainability.

The activities

EHL and Intesa Sanpaolo have incorporated industry and school activities in the Oltrepò Pavese region of Italy for promoting key messages from the report findings. These activities will bring together visionary entrepreneurs, schools and local companies, serving both as a launchpad for the report and a catalyst for igniting conversations about new industry roles and forward-thinking food solutions.

http://www.ehlgroup.com

A Beginner’s Guide to Growing Your Own Herbs and Vegetables

Growing your own herbs and vegetables is a rewarding and cost-effective way to enjoy fresh, organic produce right from your garden, balcony, or windowsill. 

Whether you have a spacious garden or just a small space to work with, this beginner’s guide will help you get started on your home-growing journey.

Why Grow Your Own?

There are a number of benefits to growing your own herbs and vegetables, including:

Freshness – Enjoy the unbeatable taste of homegrown produce.

Health benefits – Avoid pesticides and grow organic, nutrient-rich food.

Cost savings – Reduce grocery bills by growing essential kitchen staples.

Sustainability – Lower your carbon footprint by reducing food miles.

Therapeutic value – Gardening is a great way to relieve stress and connect with nature.

Choosing the Right Location

The success of your home garden depends on where you plant your herbs and vegetables. Consider these key factors:

Sunlight – Most herbs and vegetables require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Soil quality – Good drainage and nutrient-rich soil are essential for healthy plants.

Space availability – Whether you have a garden, balcony, or windowsill, choose the right containers or beds to maximise growth.

Protection from pests – Use natural methods to keep insects and animals at bay, keeping chemicals to a minimum. 

Easy Herbs and Vegetables for Beginners

Herbs

Herbs are some of the easiest plants to grow and require minimal maintenance. Here are some beginner-friendly choices:

Basil – Perfect for salads, pasta, and pesto, basil thrives in warm conditions.

Mint – Grows rapidly and is great for teas, cocktails, and garnishes.

Parsley – A versatile herb that adds flavour to many dishes.

Rosemary – A hardy perennial that adds a fragrant touch to roasts and soups.

Thyme – Low-maintenance and perfect for seasoning meats and vegetables.

Vegetables

If you’re new to vegetable gardening, start with these easy-to-grow varieties:

Lettuce – Grows quickly and can be harvested multiple times.

Tomatoes – Great for containers and ideal for fresh salads and sauces.

Radishes – Fast-growing and perfect for adding crunch to dishes.

Carrots – Easy to grow in loose, well-drained soil.

Courgettes – Prolific growers that provide a bountiful harvest.

Essential Gardening Tools

To make your gardening experience smoother, invest in these basic tools:

Trowel – For planting and transplanting.

Hand fork – Useful for breaking up soil and weeding.

Watering can or hose – Essential for keeping plants hydrated.

Gardening gloves – To protect your hands from dirt and thorns.

Pots or containers – Ideal for small-space gardening.

Planting and Caring for Your Herbs and Vegetables

Prepare the Soil – Use well-draining compost or nutrient-rich soil for best results.

Plant at the Right Time – Follow seasonal guidelines for each herb and vegetable.

Water Regularly, but sensibly – Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Feed Your Plants – Use organic fertilisers or compost to nourish your plants.

Harvest Often – Regular harvesting encourages new growth and prolongs the plant’s lifespan.

Dealing with Common Gardening Challenges

Pests and Diseases

Use companion planting (e.g., planting marigolds with tomatoes to deter pests).

Make natural insect sprays from garlic or neem oil.

Keep plants healthy to reduce vulnerability to diseases.

Weather Conditions

Use mulch to retain soil moisture in hot weather.

Provide shade for delicate plants during heatwaves.

Cover crops with fleece to protect them from frost.

Final Thoughts

Starting your own herb and vegetable garden is an enjoyable and fulfilling endeavour. With a little patience and the right approach, you’ll soon be enjoying the fruits (and vegetables) of your labour.

 Whether you have a garden, patio, or just a sunny windowsill, there’s always a way to bring fresh, homegrown produce into your kitchen.

Have you started growing your own food? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below.

Light & Refreshing Spring Salads for Warmer Days

As the days grow longer and the temperature rises, heavy winter meals give way to light, refreshing dishes that celebrate the vibrancy of spring. 

Salads are the perfect way to embrace the season, combining crisp greens, fresh vegetables, and bright dressings for a delicious and nutritious meal. 

Whether you’re looking for a side dish or a main course, these spring salad ideas are packed with flavour and seasonal goodness.

1. Spring Greens & Citrus Salad

This salad bursts with the fresh flavours of citrus and peppery greens, making it a perfect light lunch or dinner starter.

Ingredients:

100g mixed spring greens (rocket, watercress, baby spinach)

1 orange, peeled and sliced

1 grapefruit, peeled and segmented

50g crumbled feta cheese

30g walnuts, toasted

1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 tbsp honey

1 tsp Dijon mustard

Salt and black pepper to taste

Method:

In a large bowl, combine the spring greens, orange slices, and grapefruit segments.

In a small jar, mix olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper, then shake well.

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently.

Top with crumbled feta and toasted walnuts.

2. Asparagus & Pea Salad with Lemon Dressing

A true celebration of spring produce, this salad is fresh, zesty, and wonderfully green.

Ingredients:

200g asparagus, trimmed and blanched

100g sugar snap peas, sliced

100g fresh or frozen peas, blanched

50g radishes, thinly sliced

2 tbsp lemon juice

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 tsp honey

1 tsp wholegrain mustard

Salt and pepper to taste

20g fresh mint, chopped

50g goat’s cheese, crumbled

Method:

Arrange the asparagus, sugar snap peas, peas, and radishes on a large plate.

In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, honey, mustard, salt, and pepper.

Drizzle the dressing over the vegetables and toss lightly.

Sprinkle with fresh mint and goat’s cheese before serving.

3. Strawberry & Avocado Spinach Salad

Sweet strawberries and creamy avocado create a delightful contrast in this beautifully simple salad.

Ingredients:

150g baby spinach

100g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

1 ripe avocado, sliced

50g toasted almonds

50g crumbled blue cheese or feta

2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 tsp honey

Salt and black pepper to taste

Method:

In a large salad bowl, combine the spinach, strawberries, and avocado.

In a small jar, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently.

Top with toasted almonds and crumbled cheese before serving.

4. Radish, Cucumber & Herb Salad

A crisp and refreshing salad that is perfect as a side dish for grilled meats or fish.

Ingredients:

1 cucumber, thinly sliced

100g radishes, thinly sliced

20g fresh dill, chopped

20g fresh chives, chopped

1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 tsp honey

Salt and black pepper to taste

Method:

In a large bowl, mix cucumber, radishes, dill, and chives.

In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss well.

Serve immediately for a crisp, refreshing side dish.

Final Thoughts

Spring is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, light meals that highlight the best seasonal produce. Whether you’re in the mood for a citrusy, sweet, or herby salad, these recipes will bring a burst of freshness to your table. Enjoy them as a side dish, a light main, or a delightful addition to your springtime picnics and barbecues!

What’s your favourite spring salad? Let us know in the comments below!

Say Hello to Lost Sheep Coffee's New Iced Caramel Latte!

If you love good coffee but you always seem to be short on time, then this is for you!

Lost Sheep Coffee is taking ready-to-drink coffee to the next level with the launch of its New Iced Caramel Latte, the latest addition to the brand's award-winning range of Aussie-style craft coffee cans, made by speciality coffee roasters who really know their beans.

It's a natural source of caffeine, It's the perfect, ultimate combination of smooth speciality coffee and deliciously sweet caramel, all wrapped up in one perfect can for drinking anywhere, anytime.

Here's why you need to try it:

It's made by proper coffee roasters: So this is most certainly NOT your average coffee in a can. With over a million speciality coffees brewed since 2012, Lost Sheep Coffee has perfected the art of great-tasting coffee. It's the highest quality coffee you will find in can and no fancy café is required.

You'll be able to taste the difference: Made with Lost Sheep's signature Get To The Hopper Coffee, a dreamy blend of Colombian and Brazilian Arabica beans,  this Iced Caramel Latte is anything but basic. You should expect rich, creamy flavour with a touch of gorgeously sweet butterscotch goodness.

And what's more, it is fully traceable from origin to can: Lost Sheep doesn't just talk the talk. Every single can is made with coffee beans that are 100% traceable from origin so you can feel good knowing exactly where your coffee comes from.

All the sweetness, less of the guilt: Craving something sweet?  With less than half the sugar of the leading brand, the new Iced Latte offers all the caramel sweetness you love but with less than 80 calories a can, so can treat yourself without any of the guilt.

Brimming with the good stuff: Made with silky skimmed milk, it's also a brilliant source of calcium plus vitamins A, D and B12, also.

Lost Sheep Coffee founder, Stuart Wilson says: “At Lost Sheep, we're strong believers that no-one should have to compromise on great quality coffee. Our Iced Coffee Cans are made for everyone, serving up a craft coffee experience wherever you are, at whatever time of the day."

He went on to say: "For us, it's all about quality. While other RTD brands use instant coffee or low-quality beans, we brew only the best, using freshly ground, speciality-grade beans that are hand-roasted to perfection and traceable from origin to can. The result is real, Aussie-style sweet coffee in the convenience of a can. It's a genuine game-changer.”

New Lost Sheep Iced Caramel Latte Cans are available from www.lostsheepcoffee.com and Amazon.co.uk from March 2025 with more stockists to follow. RRP £2.30 for a 250ml can.

 Did you know Frappuccino Caramel Iced Coffee from the leading ready-to-drink coffee brand has 9.7g of sugar per 100ml / Lost Sheep Iced Caramel Latte has 4.5 g of sugar per 100ml? And that's good to know!

Introducing Bonne Maman Delicious Tartlets

Why not curl up, relax and treat yourself to some delicious Bonne Maman Tartlets? 

These are crisp little pastries, that are deliciously filled with tasty fruit or caramel compote. 

Now available in three varieties – fresh and zesty Citron, fruity Framboise and luscious Chocolate Caramel – Tartlets offer a simple little moment of indulgence - perfect with a morning cup of coffee, ideal for an afternoon teatime break or an on the go treat! 

Made using only the finest ingredients, Tartlets are crafted from a traditional French recipe, giving a crisp pastry base topped with a delectable melt in your mouth filling – a scrumptious balance of flavour and texture.

Individually wrapped, Bonne Maman Tartlets are available in packs of nine from Sainsbury's stores and online from Ocado at £2.00rrp. 

For further information, tips and recipes see www.bonnemaman.co.uk, like them on Facebook @BonneMamanUK and follow on Instagram @bonnemaman_uk

Range availability in store may vary by location.

Bonne Maman Cakes & Biscuits contain no artificial colourings or flavourings.

The UK range includes:

Madeleines: La Madeleine All Butter, Chocolate, Lemon and Les Petites Madeleines

Cakes: Chocolate Sweet Hearts, Fruit Cake, Loaf Cake, new Mini Chocolate Muffins, new Mini Vanilla Muffins, Marble Cake and new Chocolate Cake.

Biscuits: new Tartelettes Citron, Tartelettes Framboise and Tartelettes Chocolate Caramel, Mini Cookies, Chocolate Filled Biscuits, Chocolate Hazelnut Biscuits, Dark Chocolate Sablés and Milk Chocolate Sablés 

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.