Day: July 17, 2022

Experts reveal how to dress for work during a heatwave

The summer season is in full swing, and with temperatures set to reach new highs, it is important to know how to dress appropriately for the heat, but with many of us deciding to head into the office, knowing how to stay comfortable and cool on these warm days can be tricky.  

Fashion experts at Karen Millen have revealed the best workwear items to have in your wardrobe that not only keep you cool during the summer months whilst also staying stylish in the office.  

Shirt Dress 

A shirt dress is one of the most simple but effective ways to incorporate comfort into your wardrobe whilst also being work appropriate. There are many types of shirt dresses available and make for a solid wardrobe staple with very little effort. 

Collared shirt dresses are the clear-cut way to look smart while keeping cool, they look most professional when styled with a light tailored jacket, and they are complimentary to every body type. 

Similarly, if a collar is too much for you to handle on a hot day and your dress code allows for a slightly more casual approach, it might be better to opt for a basic t-shirt dress. To spice up a basic t-shirt dress for work, you can pair it with a lightweight blazer which will elevate the piece for more formal work occasions such as meetings, or you can smarten it up by pairing it with a high-quality cardigan and some heels.  

If you are afraid a shirt dress would be unflattering for your body shape, or you just want to accessorise the look, incorporating a belt is the most flattering way to define your waist and create a more fitted look. Belts are also a great way to add more of a dimension to your look and create a more put-together feel on the most casual dresses.  

Lightweight Trench Coat 

A lightweight trench coat is a perfect way to add a longer element to any outfit and can be a great way of transitioning from cooler mornings to warm afternoons. There are many trench coats on the market currently, and they are available in many fabrics. The most popular lightweight-style trench is typically conditioned with cotton, which allows for wear even on hot summer days meaning you don’t have to worry about carrying it around all day or feeling too hot in it. 

An excellent tip for styling a trench coat is to ensure the hemline of your outfit underneath is shorter than the hemline of the trench; this allows for a more youthful and natural look. 

If you are not sure what shoes to opt for when pairing a trench with your outfit, there are many options to choose from depending on your style preference: 

  • Trainers/Sneakers: If you prioritise comfort and want to ensure you can be more active at any point during your day, this is your safest bet. The right trainers can be breathable and more pleasant for comfort, especially when working long hours. 
  • Sandals: Despite many dress codes having a no open-toe policy, if you’re lucky enough to wear sandals, they can be a chic and enjoyable way to add that holiday feel to your workday. Not only will sandals keep your lower half cool, but they are also the perfect way to add colour to your look. 

Linen  

One of this summer’s most popular style materials is linen, so why not try incorporating it into your workwear? Linen is one of the most cooling fabrics available in every piece of clothing you need to stay breezy while working. 

  • Shirt: A linen shirt is the perfect staple and is easy to pair with your favourite tailored trousers or tucked into a flowing skirt. You also have the option to wear it unbuttoned over a blouse or as a cover-up for your arms or shoulders when leaving for work in the morning or when popping out for after-work drinks later in the evening.
  •  
  • Trousers: Linen trousers are the easiest way to keep your lower half cool and comfortable during the summer. They are also available in many colours, so if the classic cream is too casual for your work, opt for a darker, more understated colour such as black or brown without having to compromise on comfort. 
  •  
  • Dress: Linen dresses are the ultimate pieces when it comes to staying cool and looking put together. The breathable fabric will keep you cool all day and can be the perfect way to incorporate layers, even in the summer. Try styling a linen dress with a blazer to heighten the professional feel. 

Shirt and Trouser Co-ord 

It might seem like an obvious option, but a shirt and trouser co-ord can be greatly overlooked. The easiest way to stop the hassle of a what-to-wear breakdown before work is to opt for a co-ord as the outfit. 

Many types of matching sets can be worn all year round, but in the summertime, it is a great option to try out lighter fabrics such as silk-blend fabrics, cotton and linen. A popular trend is to pair a matching shirt and trouser set with trainers for a casual, effortless look, so to elevate this for workwear, try adding some chunky jewellery and a pair of heels.   

Although it might not be to everyone’s taste and can be seen to resemble sleepwear, many celebrities have been seen rocking this look and stepping out in these sets. For example, in 2018, Chrissy Teigen made headlines when stepping out in New York City in a red silk floral set which made fans lust over the bold statement causing many to follow suit. Four years later, this trend is still very much in fashion, so if a patterned pyjama set might cause too much chatter in the office, try a tailored co-ord set in a subtle colour or a structured set in a simple pattern and style up with heels. 

Maxi Dress 

A maxi dress is a staple in many workwear summer wardrobes as it is one of the most accessible and lightweight options to go for. There are many styles of the maxi dress, so the likelihood of finding a suitable one to follow any dress code is very easy. 

A patterned maxi dress is a great way to introduce colours into your workwear, and a lot of the time doesn’t need a lot of styling or accessorising as the dress does all the talking. Shirt-style maxi dresses are also a fabulous way of smartening up the long dress and can be paired with trainers or sandals, depending on your style choice.  

Another way to make your maxi dress more appropriate for a slightly stricter dress code is to pair it with a solid colour blazer; this will tie everything in and keep any casual maxi looking more professional and sophisticated for the office. 

For One Night Only: Fascinating Aida’s Liza Pulman Brings Her New Solo Show To Edinburgh Fringe

On a rare night off from her four-week Festival run with Fascinating Aida alongside fellow cabaret queens Dillie Keane and Adele Anderson, Liza Pulman will bring songs from her new album The Heart Of It with her brilliant six-piece band led by Musical Director Joseph Atkins.

The show will also feature songs from Liza Pulman Sings Streisand her 2019 show which played to sell out audiences and rave reviews at London’s The Other Palace and The Lyric, Shaftesbury Avenue.

The Heart of It sees Liza perform timeless classics and unearth lost gems, rediscovering and reimagining them for new audiences. Her funny, intelligent and emotional connection to a lyric and a melody goes straight to the heart of every song.

The acclaimed singer will take centre stage at the Assembly George Square for one night only on Sunday 14 August at 6pm.

Liza says: “I love performing at Edinburgh. There is nothing quite like the buzz of the festival and we have missed it!! So, it’s particularly exciting to be back this year with Fascinating Aida and also to be able to play my own show, The Heart of It, at the festival.

“It’ll be one, crazy night of great music, laughter, and heartbreak. With a song list including Irving Berlin, Laura Nyro, Fats Waller and Randy Newman and a bag of new arrangements by me and Joe Atkins, this is classic me; eclectic, anarchic and romantic and is a joyous celebration of music that breaks your heart and makes your heart sing.“

Liza Pulman’s varied career has encompassed music, theatre and comedy. The daughter of celebrated screenwriter Jack Pulman (I Claudius, War and Peace) and actress Barbara Young (Last of the Summer Wine, Coronation Street), Liza’s upbringing gave her a huge appreciation of classic theatre and film, as well as a deep affection for music of the 20s, 30s and 40s which so inspires her own music and writing.

As a solo artist, Liza’s impressive connection to her audience is well remarked upon in her myriad five-star reviews; flawless vocals accompanied by her easy wit and natural storytelling make Liza one of the most compelling performers of her day.

In 2004, Liza joined the award-winning comedy trio Fascinating Aida with whom she has toured globally and who continue to sell out theatres throughout the UK and abroad. With their viral YouTube hits Cheap Flights, We’re So Sorry Scotland, and now infamous Christmas Song, they continue to attract new audiences with material that is sharper and funnier than ever.

To find out more visit www.lizapulman.com

Facebook @lizapulmanofficial

Twitter @liza_pulman

Instagram @pulmanliza

REVIEWS – WHAT THE CRITICS SAY ABOUT LIZA PULMAN

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

“QUITE SIMPLY SUPERB…LIZA PULMAN IS A FORCE OF NATURE”

British Theatre

★ ★ ★ ★

“A BEGUILING EVENING DELIVERED WITH UNDENIABLE LOVE AND PASSION”

Whats On Stage

★ ★ ★ ★

“A DELIGHTFUL EVENING OF SONGS AND STORYTELLING FROM A VIRTUOSTIC PERFORMER”

London Theatre Reviews

★★★★

“PULMAN MAY LOOK BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL AND DEMURE, BUT SHE KNOWS HOW TO WIELD A FLICK-KNIFE”

The Times

LISTING INFORMATION

LIZA PULMAN: THE HEART OF IT

ASSEMBLY GEORGE SQUARE – GORDON AIKMAN THEATRE

George Square

Edinburgh

EH8 9LK

https://assemblyfestival.com

0131 623 3030

Date: Sunday, 14 August 2022

Time: 6pm

Tickets: £16/Concessions £15

Vauxhall Corsa is the UK’s best-selling new car in the first half of 2022

  • Vauxhall Corsa is the UK’s best-selling new car in the first six months of 2022
  • More than 22,200 units sold in the first half of the year
  • All-electric Corsa-e is the UK’s best selling electric supermini, with 2,677 sold in the first six months
  • Vauxhall’s private car and van market share grew from 4.9% to 6.1% compared to the first six months of 2021

The award-winning Vauxhall Corsa is the UK’s best-selling new car for the first six months of the year, according to the latest new car registration figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

With 5,014 sold in June, and 22,212 in total for the first half of 2022, the Corsa is also the best-selling B-segment vehicle so far this year. The all-electric Corsa-e has been named the best-selling electric supermini for the first half of the year, with 2,677 registrations so far in 2022.

The performance of the Corsa range, alongside Vauxhall’s other new models including the new Mokka, helped the brand grow its private car market share from 4.7% to 5.8% compared to last year.  In June, Vauxhall was the second-best-selling car manufacturer overall, with 9,966 registrations across all car models.

Paul Willcox, Managing Director, Vauxhall, said: “The Vauxhall Corsa was the UK’s best-selling car last year, and we’re on track for another stellar year. The first six months have been difficult for the whole industry, but Vauxhall remains a firm favourite with UK buyers.

“The second half of the year will see the roll-out of our All-New Astra and Astra Sports Tourer – two new models that showcase our new design language, innovative technologies, and our commitment to electrification.”

The Vauxhall Corsa is available with efficient petrol engines as well as with a fully electric powertrain. The Corsa-e is powered by a 50kWh battery and a 136PS (100kW) electric motor and is capable of up to 222 miles (WLTP test cycle) from a single charge. Capable of supporting up to 100kW rapid charging, an 80% charge takes just 30 minutes to complete.

The entire Vauxhall passenger car range can be ordered entirely online via the Vauxhall Online Store. The Vauxhall Online Store brings the brand’s showroom experience straight into the comfort of buyers’ homes.

Customers can arrange a live video viewing of their vehicle via the Vauxhall Virtual Showroom and proceed to the Online Store to configure their vehicle, personalise finance payments, and place an order, all from the comfort of their home.

Twelve ideas for cheap or free days out with the kids this summer

With the summer holidays here and the cost-of-living crisis continuing to bite, job booking portal redwigwam has pulled together a list of some cheap or free ideas that anyone can do with their children over the summer holidays.

Claire of redwigwam says: “We know how hard it is to keep the kids entertained without spending an absolute fortune while they are off school, so hopefully these ideas will help.”

1. Go to a farmers’ market

Always fun to have a walk around, and often with animals to have a look at while you’re there, and you can always make a small purchase if you feel like it. We know items can be expensive at farmers markets, but you might fancy treating yourself to a nice jar of honey. There’s no pressure to buy though.

2. Go for a walk

Completely free and it gets you out of the house and into nature. If it’s raining, pop the waterproofs on and jump in some puddles. You’ll be doing wonders for your health both mentally and physically – and then feel less guilty about spending the rest of the day doing very little.

If you’re feeling inspired before you set off, you could even make some lists of things for the children to find while they are out – a stone, a flower, a feather etc. If not, my children always like a spot of healthy competition, so counting steps, and seeing if we can beat the total we did on our last walk is always a winner – and helps tired legs complete the last bit home.

3. Have a water fight

The weather doesn’t have to be roasting, but a water fight is always a winner on a hot day. If you’re feeling brave, get the kids to invite their friends round to add to the fun! You can invest a small amount in water guns if you don’t already have any – but we always find Calpol syringes (or similar) work really well (and let’s face it, we all have kitchen drawers full of them!)

4. Take a picnic to the park

Don’t know about you, but one of the worst things about the summer holidays is the never-ending demand for snacks and trying to figure out what you can make for lunch which is a) different and b) they will eat.

For a cheap lunch out – and lots of fresh air – take a picnic to the park. Even the same sandwiches you’ve eaten every other day taste different in new surroundings.

You can even take your own ice lollies in a freezer bag for a real treat.

5. Go to the beach

If you’re close enough, a day trip to the beach can feel like you’ve been on holiday. Pack the buckets and spades, a ball, and the swimming stuff (and a picnic of course)

One of our favourite days out last summer was an evening trip to the beach after work – nothing like vitamin sea to cleanse the soul.

6. Go camping

While you will need some equipment for this, it’s a cost-effective way to get away from it all for a couple of nights. If you don’t have a tent, see if you can borrow one – or have a look on Facebook marketplace to see if someone is selling one second hand.

And if you really can’t get away, put it up in the garden – the children can use it as a den, and maybe even have a sleepover at home.

7. Plant flowers, vegetables, or herbs in your garden

Seeds are readily available, and cheap. This is a great project for kids as they can watch how the plants grow over the summer. You can even encourage them do some research into how to look after various plants.

If you do end up with fully grown vegetables or herbs, you can harvest them and have them for dinner. Win-win.

8. Go to the library

Anything that encourages them to read over the summer. Most local libraries have a summer reading scheme for children, when they’ll receive a reward for reading a certain number of books.

Libraries often have events you can join in over the summer months – often an opportunity to do some crafts (with the bonus of keeping the mess out of the house)

If you have time, it’s always pleasant to choose some books and stay at the library to read for a while for a change of scenery. (Our local one has a café attached, so even the option of a cuppa for me too)

9. Swimming

Always a winning activity. Find out how much pools near you charge for entry and choose a cheap one. As with the library, see if your local pools offer fun sessions with inflatables, or even canoeing to try out. Fun and exercise in one go.

10. Visit a museum

Wherever you live, there’s usually a museum to visit. In many towns and cities, these are free (although do often charge for special exhibitions). Here in Liverpool, we are spoilt for choice – my own children love the World Museum – dinosaurs and an aquarium in one building.

Make a list of as many museums and art galleries with free entry which are within traveling distance and try and visit as many as possible over the summer holidays.

11. Have a games night

Board games are always a huge hit in our house. And even better if we ask friends round and they bring games we don’t already own.

A few snacks and drinks and we’re set up for the evening. You could even add a competitive element by creating a tournament with a small inexpensive prize for the overall winner.    

12. Try cooking new recipes

Have a look through the cookbooks you already have or get one from the library. Or you can even research recipes online.

Try to choose a few recipes with similar ingredients so you can keep costs down when you’re doing your food shopping.

Get the children involved with planning, preparing and cooking the meal – they’ll get a great sense of satisfaction and may even be more likely to eat the meal!

If you’re feeling the pinch this summer and are looking for a way to top up your income and help pay for your summer plans, why not join redwigwam and work with us flexibly. There’s a huge choice of jobs, with hundreds added every week.

Because our jobs are completely flexible, adding extra hours around existing work commitments or childcare is no problem. You simply book the jobs and shifts to suit you.

We have all sorts of jobs in all sorts of industries including: bar work, baristas, mystery shoppers, hotel receptionists, retail assistants and waiters.

Find out more at www.redwigwam.com

Prime Day 2022 was biggest event ever

This year was the biggest Prime Day event for Amazon’s selling partners, most of whom are small and medium-sized businesses, whose sales growth in Amazon’s store outpaced Amazon’s retail business

Since Prime Day shopping began on July 12, select Fire TV, Echo, and Ring devices were some of the best-selling items on Amazon in the UK

Some of the best-selling products in the U.K., excluding Amazon devices, this Prime Day were Garnier Vitamin C Serum for Face , Finish Powerball Power All in 1, 110 Tablets, Rimmel Extra 3D Lash Volumising Mascara, Purina ONE Adult Dry Cat Food Chicken and Wholegrains, and  Shark Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner

AMAZON Prime members purchased more than 300 million items worldwide during Prime Day 2022, making this year’s event the biggest Prime Day event in Amazon’s history.

Topping the list in the UK, the Fire TV Stick with Alexa Voice Remote, HD streaming device was the most popular item purchased on Prime Day. And, more shopping means more donations through AmazonSmile. This year, during Prime Day, Amazon doubled donations on all eligible purchases in the UK, making this also one of the biggest days for UK charities on AmazonSmile. 

This year was the biggest Prime Day event for Amazon’s selling partners, most of whom are small and medium-sized businesses, whose sales growth in Amazon’s store outpaced Amazon’s retail business. Customers spent over $3 billion on more than 100 million small business items included in the Support Small Businesses to Win Big sweepstakes. 

John Boumphrey, Country Manager, Amazon UK said: “UK Prime members participated in Prime Day at record levels, saving on everything from everyday basic to devices seasonal purchases for the summer.

“Prime Day delivered something for everyone – great savings for Prime customers, critical sales for the 65,000 UK small businesses that sell on Amazon, and increasing donations for more than 45,000 UK charities that customers can choose to support through AmazonSmile.

“Thank you to all of the brilliant selling partners who participated in Prime Day this year, and a huge thanks to all of the Amazon employees across the UK who made this event possible for customers.”

“And, by way of reminder for all customers, you can continue to shop using the Small Business badge to find products from small businesses in the UK, and at the same time, continue using AmazonSmile all year long so that while you shop, we donate to your chosen charity.”

Prime Day Continues to Fuel Small Business Success

“As a games business we usually see our busiest sales period in the run up to Christmas but Prime Day has offered a fantastic boost in sales for us at a quieter time of year – just in time for families to play our games on their summer holidays! Sales were up more than 500% compared to a typical equivalent day, which makes a big difference to a small business like ours. At Gamely we’re passionate about getting people playing our games as a way to spend more quality time laughing with their family and friends, and Prime Day 2022 has helped make that a reality!” Hazel Reynolds, Founder of Gamely Games

“Prime Day has been a well needed boost of our sales in a difficult economic climate. We increased our turnover by 30% over the last few days. Funky Soap has worked very hard to keep popular items in stock and we have been preparing for the last few weeks. Of course we also benefit from the Amazon advertising campaigns and the increased traffic to our store. Furthermore the “Small Business” Badge on our listings has helped to improve sales as customers know they can trust and support us as a small company. Overall we are very happy with the Prime Day Event and it has been a success and a rewarding experience.” Anni Kriesche, Founder of Funky Soap Shop LTD

“The whole lead up to Prime day has been incredible for us – to have something to really shout about and get involved in as a small business. We’re grateful to Amazon for doing so much to promote ethical, small businesses, and we’ve learned a lot along the way too. Prime Day itself is going super well – we’re watching all the orders fly in, and we are excited to build on this positivity over the next 12 months.” Ky Wright, Founder of Human Food. 

“Thanks to Amazon for shining a spotlight on small businesses. It was great to take part in the recent ‘Small Business, Big Dreams’ panel to explore the impact of social media on growing companies. We’re excited to carry on the momentum with Amazon Prime Day and thrilled to be able to offer such a great deal to our new and existing customers alike: 20% off Supplement and Collagen Serum, 15% off Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner.” Darcy Laceby, Absolute Collagen

Worldwide and U.S. shopping trends around Amazon’s Prime Day event include:

Worldwide Prime Day Trends

Shopping

·         Prime members worldwide purchased more than 100,000 items per minute during this year’s Prime Day event.

·         Some of the best-selling categories worldwide this Prime Day were Amazon Devices, Consumer Electronics, and Home.

·         Prime members worldwide did the most shopping from 9am – 10am PT on Tuesday, 7/12 during the entire Prime Day event.

·         Since Prime Day shopping began on July 12, select Fire TV, Echo, and Blink devices were some of the best-selling items on Amazon worldwide.

U.K. Prime Day Trends 

UK Best Sellers by Category

Some of the top selling products in the UK in the below categories included:

Beauty: Garnier Vitamin C Serum for Face,Rimmel Extra 3D Lash Volumising Mascara, CeraVe – SA Smoothing Cleanser and, Bed Head by TIGI Resurrection Shampoo and Conditioner

Beer, Wine and Spirits: Kraken Black Spiced Rum, Talisker 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Aviation American Gin, and 19 Crimes Red Wine

Electronics: Anker Power Bank, 325 Portable Charger, Duracell Plus AA Alkaline Batteries , Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700, Anker Soundcore mini, Super-Portable Bluetooth Speaker, and JBL Flip 5 Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Fashion: BOSS Men’s T-Shirt, KANASTAL High Protection 100% Polarised Driving Sunglasses, BOSS Men’s Boxer Shorts, Swarovski Symbolic pendant, and Havaianas Women’s Slim Crystal Glamour Swarovski

Home: Shark Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner, COSORI Air Fryer with 100 Recipes Cookbook, George Foreman 25820 Large Fit Grill, Philips Hue White Ambiance Smart Light Bulb 2 Pack, and SodaStream Spirit Sparkling Water Maker Machine

Toys: Barbie Color Reveal Mermaid Doll, LEGO 31058 Creator Mighty Dinosaurs Toy, Melissa & Doug Wooden Ice Cream Set, and Hasbro Gaming Boggle

Use AmazonSmile Every Day

AmazonSmile is the company’s charity initiative which allows customers to support their chosen UK charity while shopping. Whether shopping online or by turning on AmazonSmile in the Amazon app, eligible purchases made with AmazonSmile generate 0.5% to a customer’s chosen charity. Customers can learn how easy it is to shop with the Amazon app at smile.amazon.co.uk.

Two Ways to Use AmazonSmile
In any web browser:

  1. Visit smile.amazon.co.uk and sign in with your Amazon.co.uk details
  2. Select your chosen charitable organisation to receive donations
  3. Start generating donations every time you shop eligible items at smile.amazon.co.uk
  4. Add a bookmark for smile.amazon.co.uk

In the App:

  1. Download or update to the latest version of the Amazon Shopping App for iOS or Android
  2. Open the app and find “AmazonSmile” in the main menu (☰) under “Settings”
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to choose your charity and turn on AmazonSmile in the Amazon Shopping App
  4. Start generating donations automatically when you shop eligible items in the app!

Enjoy a summer BBQ on a budget

Cash strapped Britons planning a holiday barbecue are being offered advice on how to keep the cost down.

The frugal experts at NetVoucherCodes.co.uk have put together their tips for hosting a BBQ on a budget.

They suggest shopping around the staples like meat and bread rolls, and to plan ahead and try and bag some yellow sticker bargains.

Other advice includes asking guests to bring a dish with them, opening and cooking only what you need and freezing anything that isn’t used.

John Stirzaker from NetVoucherCodes.co.uk said: “Having a barbecue is a quintessential part of the UK summer but they’re not the cheapest events to host. Meat can be costly and it’s easy to get seduced and buy the best cuts and cook the lot.

“Instead shop around and see what offers you can find. Also think about asking your guests to bring a pudding, salad or even some of the meat with them. That way it’ll cut the cost burden on you and you can do the same when you’re invited to theirs.

“Remember too that whilst the food is a big part of a BBQ, it’s about getting together with family and friends and enjoying time together.”

Here are NetVoucherCodes.co.uk’s tips for hosting a BBQ on a budget:

  1. Snack starters

Crisps, nachos and dips are a great, cheap starter for guests. Opt for supermarket own brand and decant into bowls.

  1. Buy yellow sticker

Be smart when it comes to shopping for food for your BBQ. Check out the yellow sticker items in the supermarket and stock up on burgers, sausages and any other meaty treats. If they’re close to their sell by date, freeze. Make sure you thoroughly defrost before barbecuing.

  1. Bring a dish

If you’re inviting friends or family around, encourage everyone to bring a dish. Someone could provide the meat, another salad and a third could top up with desserts. That way the cost isn’t all down to one person.

  1. Make your own marinade

Rather than shelling out on expensive marinades, try making your own. Marinades are made with a main ingredient like yoghurt, lemon juice, wine or vinegar, mixed with oil and selected spices. Why not experiment with whatever you have in the cupboard?

  1. Shop around for your meat

Check out your local butcher as well as supermarkets for meat. At this time of year, they may have some good value BBQ offers on.

  1. Use a pack at a time

Don’t put everything on your BBQ at once or open every packet of rolls. Stagger it and only cook and open what you need.

  1. Add some veggies

Vegetables cook well on the BBQ too and are a lot cheaper than meat. Try corn on the cob and jacket potatoes. They’re great fillers to counter all that meat!

  1. Cheap bread

There’s no need to shell out on cheap bread rolls for your BBQ. Check what your supermarket has on offer. It often works out cheaper to buy in bulk so whatever’s left, freeze.

  1. Avoid paper plates

Don’t be tempted to buy throw away plates to make clearing up easier. It’s bad for the environment and your pocket. Just save the clearing up until the next morning.

https://www.netvouchercodes.co.uk/

Film Fest In The City 2022 Programme Revealed

Edinburgh International Film Festival in partnership with Essential Edinburgh returns to St Andrew Square Gardens for an opening weekend of free outdoor screenings from Friday 12th August to Sunday 14th August.

Film Fest in the City in St Andrew Square Gardens returns as part of the Edinburgh International Film Festival programme on the festival’s opening weekend from Friday 12th to Sunday 14th August. The free and non-ticketed outdoor screening programme of new and classic cinematic favourites reflect the wider EIFF 2022 themes, including a celebration of Scotland’s Stories on Screen for Scotland’s Year of Stories 2022.

The programme is delivered in partnership with Essential Edinburgh and supported by Innis & Gunn, EIFF’s Official Beer Partner, travel partner LNER and supported by EventScotland as part of the Year of Stories 2022 and reflects EIFF’s return to August embracing other cultural festivals around it. EIFF is working closely with local travel partner Lothian Buses to encourage sustainable travel to Edinburgh’s city centre, plan your journey at lothianbuses.co.uk or download the Lothian buses app.

On Friday 12th August, EIFF tips its hat to the Edinburgh International Book Festival with a day of films that all started in the twinkle of an author’s eye.

The day will also feature a selection of short films with a Scottish connection, screened before feature films and presented in celebration of Scotland’s Year of Stories 2022 as Scotland’s Stories on Screen. 

On Saturday 13th August, the celebration of Scotland’s Stories on Screen picks up pace as the Film Fest in the City programme fills the square with homegrown stories and some family fun, including a special live musical performance to accompany the 100 year anniversary screening of the 1922 classic Rob Roy, as well as Brave, set in the Highlands story of Princess Merida and The Illusionist set in Edinburgh plus more short films with a Scottish connection. And if all that homegrown fun wasn’t enough, stay on and enjoy the evening with the family favourite WALL-E followed by the recent blockbuster, Free Guy.

Sunday 14th August sees EIFF Youth Programmers from Edinburgh and Aberdeen take over the square with a selection of favourites including Twilight, Big, Shrek and Whip It to celebrate big screen favourites all directed their favourite female directors.

As a nod to EIFF’s closing night film, After Yang, the Film Fest in the City explores the idea of Artificial Intelligence on screen. For sci-fi purists out there there’s Stanley Kubrick classic, 2001 A Space Odyssey. If you like your A.I. all singing, all dancing, don’t miss everybody’s favourite Pixar robot Wall-E or maybe you just want to spend Saturday night with Ryan Reynolds (who doesn’t?!) then don’t miss Free Guy.

This special open-air series of screenings coincides with the main programme of full in-person cinema screenings as part of the 75th anniversary of the city’s International Film Festival, giving the Film Festival an East-to-West city centre presence and making cinema accessible to both film buffs and Edinburgh residents of all ages. Attending audiences can look out for lots of special surprises at each screening too.

These events are free. Film times and details of accompanying activities can be found by visiting www.edfilmfest.org.uk.

Audiences will enjoy the outdoor screenings with an amazing range of food and drink produce available to purchase on site, including EIFF Official Beer Partner Innis & Gunn. Heritage gastropub The Voyage of Buck will be have a bar on site which will be focusing on Lind and Lime Gin cocktails including collins and spritzes featuring summer flavours with London essence tonics and sodas.

Bring your favourite cinema snacks and picnic blankets or sit yourself down on one of the famous St Andrew Square deck chairs to enjoy the following:

FRIDAY, 12 AUGUST

11.00 | Paddington (2014 / dir. Paul King)

Everyone’s favourite bear in his first big screen adventure as he travels from deepest darkest Peru to London to try and find himself a new home.

13.00 | Fantastic Mr Fox (2009 / dir. Wes Anderson)

Filmmaker Wes Anderson guides an A-list cast in this stop-motion take on Roald Dahl’s classic book.

14.45 | SHORT FILM: What Makes Soup, Soup? (dirs. Conor Reilly, Tommy Reilly, Malcolm Cumming)

…one of life’s greatest mysteries. From BBC Social team, a short film including a rising star, Glasgow-based Malcolm Cumming and composer Tommy Reilly, both known for their work on Anna & The Apocalype. In celebration of Scotland’s Stories on Screen.

15.00 | Christopher Robin (2018 / dir. Marc Forster)

Perth-born Hollywood actor Ewan McGregor stars as a now-grown-up Christopher Robin who is visited by Winnie the Pooh to help find his lost friends in the Hundred Acre Wood.

17.00 | SHORT FILM: Neville is Dead (dir. Louis Paxton)

Neville is Magnus’ best friend. Neville can’t die. This is going to be AMAZING. A short film from an Edinburgh filmmaker who recently directed the last ever episode of tv series Shetland. In celebration of Scotland’s Stories on Screen.

17.30 | Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000 / dir. Ang Lee)

Join us for high-flying spectacle in filmmaker Ang Lee’s martial arts masterpiece

19.40 | SHORT FILM: Flit (dir. Jack Allen)

A world-renowned, professional fly killer, named Carl, is on the cusp of finalising his latest and most powerful invention… an exciting new short film from an emerging Scottish filmmaker and animator.

In celebration of Scotland’s Stories on Screen.

20.00 | 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968 / dir. Stanley Kubrick)

One of the greatest cinematic experiences of all time. Stanley Kubrick’s journey into space is designed for the big screen.

SATURDAY, 13 AUGUST

11:00 | Brave (2012 / dirs. Brenda Chapman and Mark Andrews)

Follow Princess Merida as she forges her own path in Disney and Pixar’s journey into the mythical Scottish kingdom of DunBroch. Celebrating Scotland’s Stories on Screen. Pre-screening family entertainment, including face-painting.

12.50 | SHORT FILM: Fear of Flying (dir. Conor Finnegan)

A small bird with a fear of flying tries to avoid heading South for the winter. A short animation which screened at EIFF in 2013. Celebrating Scotland’s Stories on Screen.

13:00 | The Illusionist (2010 / dir. Sylvain Chomet)

Based on the story by Jacques Tati, this beautifully animated tale tells of a French illusionist who travels to Scotland, where he meets a young woman where their exciting adventures together change both their lives forever. Celebrating Scotland’s Stories on Screen. Pre-screening family entertainment.

14.49 | SHORT FILM: Widdershins (dir. Simon Biggs)

A pampered gentleman’s seamlessly automated life is thrown into chaos when he pursues a free-spirited woman, against the advice of his robot butler. Scottish Film Talent Network-funded Scottish animation from the team at Once Were Farmers. Celebrating Scotland’s Stories on Screen.

15:30 | Rob Roy (1922 / dir. W. P. Kellino), in celebration of Scotland’s Stories on Screen

Join us for a special live musical performance to accompany this impressive 1922 classic film.

17.20 | SHORT FILM: Betty (Will Anderson)

A new short from the BAFTA Award-winning Scottish animator tells the story of an avian protagonist as he falls in love with Betty and then loses her through a series of bad decisions…

Celebrating Scotland’s Stories on Screen.

18:00 | Wall-E (2008 / dir. Andrew Stanton)

An all singing, all dancing modern classic from Pixar.

20.00 | SHORT FILM: Don Vs Lighting (dir. Big Red Button)

Unlucky Don keeps getting struck by lightning… a short film from Big Red Button (Johnny Burns and Pier van Tijn), starring award-winning Scottish actor Peter Mullan. Celebrating Scotland’s Stories on Screen.

20:15 | Free Guy (2021 / dir. Shawn Levy)

Affable bank clerk Ryan Reynolds discovers he is a computer game character in this recent action comedy.

SUNDAY, 14 AUGUST

11:00 | Shrek (2001 / dirs. Andrew Adamson, Vicky Jenson)

Join a whole host of fairy tale characters in this animated, tuneful and funny animated adventure.

13:00 | Big (1989 / dir. Penny Marshall)

Tom Hanks reconnects with his youth in this 80s family classic.

15:15 | Whip It (2009 / dir. Drew Barrymore)

Get your skates on and join Babe Ruthless and the roller-derby team in this funny and quirky drama.

17:30 | The Farewell (2021 / dir. Lulu Wang)

A funny and uplifting tale of a family reconnecting with their past

19:45 | Twilight (2008 / dir. Catherine Hardwicke)

Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart star in this everlasting teenage vampire romance.

Children and young people should not be able to buy ‘loot boxes’ in video games without parental consent

  • Government’s call for evidence has unveiled a link between loot boxes and gambling harms, as well as wider mental health, financial and problem-gaming harms
  • Government calls on games companies to step up and improve protections for children as well as players of all ages from the risk of harm

Video games companies and platforms must do more to make sure children can not make in-game purchases – known as ‘loot boxes’ – without their parents’ consent, Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries said today.

Loot boxes are a type of in-game purchase in some video games. Players can purchase a loot box with real money to receive random items, including “power-ups” to help a player compete better in the game and cosmetic items, such as virtual clothing.

The call for evidence on loot boxes, launched by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport in 2020, found that players who have purchased loot boxes may be more likely to experience gambling, mental health, financial and problem gaming-related harms. The risk may also be higher for children and young people.

To protect players, the Government is calling for the purchase of loot boxes to be made unavailable to children and young people unless they are approved by a parent or guardian.

Some games platforms, such as Xbox, have already taken steps to improve protections, such as including options that require parental permission for under-18s to spend money within games.

The Government wants to build on this with strong protections for children across the entire games industry and will not hesitate to consider legislation if companies do not bring in sufficient measures to keep players safe.

Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries said: “We want to stop children going on spending sprees online without parental consent, spurred on by in-game purchases like loot-boxes.

“Games companies and platforms need to do more to ensure that controls and age-restrictions are applied so that players are protected from the risk of gambling harms. Children should be free to enjoy gaming safely, whilst giving parents and guardians the peace of mind they need.”

Games companies and platforms should provide spending controls and transparent information to all players. Protections should support the minority of players who spend a disproportionate amount of money on loot boxes, and who may be at a greater risk of harm.

A new working group, convened by DCMS, will bring together games companies, platforms and regulatory bodies to develop industry-led measures to protect players and reduce the risk of harm.  This will include measures such as parental controls, and making sure transparent, accessible information is available to all players.

The call for evidence also found a need for better evidence to improve understanding of the positive and negative impacts of video games. The Government will launch a Video Games Research Framework to support this.

The UK has a world class video games industry which contributed £2.9 billion to the economy in 2019, growing hugely from £400 million in 2010. As the sector continues to innovate the Government is committed to supporting its growth, whilst also ensuring games can be enjoyed safely.

Dr Jo Twist OBE, Chief Executive Officer, Ukie said: “As a responsible industry, we have committed to exploring additional ways to support players and parents to build on our existing work developing and raising awareness of parental controls.

“We look forward to engaging closely with the Government and other organisations in the working group and on the Video Games Research Framework.”

Dr Richard Wilson OBE, Chief Executive Officer, TIGA said: “TIGA believes that games businesses should aim to ensure that games are safe to use for all players. In 2020, TIGA formally adopted its 5 Principles for Safeguarding Players, designed to embody the spirit of the approach that games companies should adopt in operating their businesses within the UK.

“Children and young people should not be able to buy ‘loot boxes’ in video games without parental consent. TIGA also believes that vulnerable adults need to be protected against potential harms arising from loot boxes.

“TIGA looks forward to contributing to the DCMS’s planned working group to advance measures to protect players from potential harms.”

Scottish Government funding support to tackle hunger crisis in Africa

Grants totalling £250,000 are being given to two charities to assist people affected by the hunger crisis in Ethiopia and Somalia.

The region is facing its driest conditions in 40 years, with the impact on food supplies made worse by global grain supply disruption as a result of the illegal Russian invasion of Ukraine.

The funding comes from the Scottish Government’s Humanitarian Emergency Fund (HEF), with half going to Christian Aid for their work in Ethiopia, including providing children and pregnant and breastfeeding women with supplementary nutrition.

Islamic Relief is receiving the remaining funding for their project in Somalia, which is delivering emergency assistance for victims of the drought, as well as improving water access and hygiene in four Internally Displaced People camps in Beledweyne District, near the Ethiopian border.  

International Development Minister Neil Gray said: “The drought being experienced in the Horn of Africa is creating a desperate situation for people in the region that is being made worse by grain supply disruption caused by Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine.  

“We know that millions of people are facing historic drought conditions and a lack of essential food supplies and we stand ready to act in the face of such a pressing emergency.

“The Scottish Government is committed to fulfilling its role as a responsible and compassionate global citizen and this aid from our Humanitarian Emergency Fund will provide essential help to those in desperate need.”

Head of Christian Aid Scotland Sally Foster-Fulton said: “A prolonged drought and four failed rainy seasons means – yet again – crops cannot grow and this is having a devastating impact on the people of Ethiopia – in addition to the challenges of conflict, COVID-19 and rising food costs.

“Children and women are impacted the most, and many children are showing signs of malnourishment. We are grateful to the Scottish Government for supporting our work in South Omo, southern Ethiopia, where we will ensure the most vulnerable receive money to buy the food they need to survive.”

Nadeem Baqir, Scotland Regional Manager for Islamic Relief UK, said: “We welcome the Scottish Government’s support for our work in Somalia which comes at a critical time and will help us to ensure more families get the food and hygiene kits they need.

“Somalia has been hit by failed rains for the fourth year in a row resulting in yet another devastating drought. This has exacerbated the growing hunger crisis alongside the impacts of COVID-19 and the increasing costs of food.

“Across the country, millions of people are in dire need of food assistance and clean water to ensure their survival. Families who have been displaced and are now living in camps do not have enough to eat and in some cases are having to share the little they receive as there just isn’t enough for everyone.”