Friday 30 August 2024
Wednesday 28 August 2024
Harness the Power of Festive Promotion with That’s Christmas and That’s Food and Drink
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As the festive season draws ever nearer, the importance of effectively promoting your food and drink offerings cannot be overstated.
Whether you are a major player in the industry or a small-scale artisan creator, the right exposure during this time can make a significant difference to your brand’s visibility and sales.
This is where the That’s Christmas and That’s Food and Drink blogs come into play, offering a unique opportunity to showcase your festive products at no cost.
The Magic of That’s Christmas
That’s Christmas is a well-established blog dedicated to all things festive. From the latest Christmas trends to heart-warming stories and, of course, food and drink, it serves as a go-to source of information and inspiration during the holiday season. The blog has a loyal following of readers who are eager to discover the best festive offerings, making it an ideal platform for businesses to promote their Christmas-themed products.
By featuring your food and drink offerings on That’s Christmas, you can reach a targeted audience that is actively searching for festive inspiration. Whether it’s a new twist on a classic Christmas pudding, a unique holiday cocktail, or an innovative seasonal snack, That’s Christmas can help you get the word out to consumers who are in the mood to indulge and celebrate.
The Expertise of That’s Food and Drink
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Meanwhile, That’s Food and Drink serves as a complementary platform, focusing on the broader world of culinary delights. This blog covers everything from gourmet meals and fine wines to everyday favourites, providing readers with a wealth of information on the latest food and drink trends. It’s a perfect place to highlight your products not just during the Christmas season but all year round.
For businesses looking to make a splash with their festive products, That’s Food and Drink offers the opportunity to be featured alongside other top-tier brands and artisan creators. Whether you are launching a new product or want to spotlight a holiday favourite, this blog provides a credible and widely-read platform to reach an engaged audience.
No-Cost Promotion for All
One of the standout benefits of partnering with That’s Christmas and That’s Food and Drink is the no-cost promotion. In an age where marketing budgets are often stretched thin, especially for smaller businesses, the opportunity to feature your products without incurring any costs is invaluable. This makes it accessible for everyone—from industry giants to independent artisans—to take advantage of the blogs’ readership. (We have Google Ads to raise generate income.)
To get featured, all you need to do is reach out to the blogs with details about your product. Whether it’s a press release, a product sample, or a simple email introducing your offering, the team behind the blogs is always on the lookout for exciting new content to share with their readers. (email afj_uk@yahoo.com)
Amplify Your Festive Marketing Strategy
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So, whether you’re offering a luxurious Christmas hamper, a range of artisanal chocolates, or a limited-edition seasonal drink, don’t miss out on the opportunity to have your products featured on these popular blogs.
It’s an effortless, cost-effective way to enhance your brand’s visibility and connect with consumers who are ready to celebrate the season with delicious food and drink.
Make this festive season a successful one with the help of That’s Christmas and That’s Food and Drink. Get in touch today and let your products shine in the spotlight they deserve.
Celebrating the Continuing Success of the "That's Christmas" Blog
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In this whirlwind of preparation, one blog has consistently stood out, guiding its readers through the joys of Christmas shopping and festive indulgence: That’s Christmas.
A Beacon of Festive Cheer
Since its inception, That’s Christmas has carved out a niche for itself as the go-to source for all things Christmas. With an unwavering focus on quality content, the blog has become a trusted companion for those looking to stay ahead of the latest Christmas trends.
Whether it’s discovering the newest and most unique Christmas gifts or savouring the best festive foods and drinks, That’s Christmas ensures its readers are well-informed and thoroughly inspired.
A Hub for Christmas Gifting Inspiration
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Each product is carefully reviewed, with the blog’s insightful commentary making it easier for readers to choose the perfect gifts. This attention to detail has not only helped readers make informed choices but has also built a loyal following who trust the blog’s recommendations.
Festive Foods and Drinks: A Culinary Delight
Christmas is a time for indulgence, and That’s Christmas doesn’t disappoint when it comes to festive foods and drinks. The blog consistently highlights the latest culinary delights that make Christmas feasts unforgettable. From traditional favourites with a modern twist to new and exciting flavours, That’s Christmas covers it all. The blog’s coverage of festive beverages—be they cosy hot chocolates, celebratory wines, or inventive cocktails—ensures that readers have everything they need to create a memorable Christmas dining experience.
Engaging Content that Resonates
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Looking Forward to Another Successful Season
As we approach another festive season, That’s Christmas continues to shine brightly. Its commitment to bringing the latest Christmas news, along with its expert curation of gifts and festive treats, ensures it remains a favourite among its readers. The blog's growth and continued success are a testament to its relevance and the high-quality content it consistently delivers.
In a world where the festive season can sometimes feel overwhelming, That’s Christmas remains a comforting guide, helping its readers to navigate Christmas with joy, ease, and a touch of magic. Here’s to another season of festive cheer, and to That’s Christmas—the blog that truly embodies the spirit of the season.
Recreating a Traditional Italian Christmas Feast at Home
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If you’re looking to bring the warmth and spirit of an Italian Christmas into your home this year, here’s a guide to help you recreate a traditional Italian Christmas family feast, complete with authentic recipes, tips, and suggestions.
Setting the Scene
Before diving into the cooking, it’s essential to set the right atmosphere. Italian Christmas celebrations are intimate and festive, so think about creating a cosy and welcoming environment. Here are a few tips:
Decorate with simplicity: Use warm lighting, red and gold table settings, and perhaps a few sprigs of rosemary or holly.
Music: Soft Italian Christmas carols in the background can add to the festive mood. (Here is a link to some by Andrea Bocelli https://youtu.be/kAufwdN7m2k?si=39LSvcWtv5dR9nKb)
Family involvement: Get everyone involved in the preparation. In Italy, cooking is a family affair, especially during the holidays.
The Feast: Course by Course
A traditional Italian Christmas meal is a feast of many courses, each representing different regional traditions and culinary expertise. Below is a classic menu that reflects the diversity of Italian Christmas dishes.
1. Antipasti (Starters)
Italian Christmas meals often start with a variety of antipasti. These small bites set the tone for the feast to come. Here are some suggestions:
Crostini with Chicken Liver Pâté: A Tuscan classic, this dish is both rich and flavourful.
Prosciutto e Melone: Thinly sliced prosciutto served with sweet, ripe melon is a simple yet elegant starter.
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
2. Primi (First Course)
The first course is usually a hearty pasta dish or a soup. Here are a few traditional options:
Tortellini in Brodo: This is a classic Christmas dish from Emilia-Romagna. Small pasta filled with meat, served in a rich capon broth.
Lasagne alla Bolognese: Layers of pasta with a rich ragù, béchamel sauce, and Parmesan cheese make this a decadent choice.
Risotto ai Funghi: A creamy risotto with earthy mushrooms, perfect for those who prefer something different.
3. Secondi (Main Course)
The main course is where the feast truly shines, often featuring roasted meats or fish, depending on the region.
Arrosto di Vitello (Roast Veal): A tender roast veal served with a rich gravy.
Baccalà alla Livornese: Salted cod cooked in a tomato and olive sauce, a traditional dish for Christmas Eve.
Pollo alla Cacciatora (Hunter’s Chicken): Chicken slow-cooked in tomatoes, olives, and herbs, resulting in a comforting and flavourful dish.
4. Contorni (Side Dishes)
Side dishes play a significant role in balancing the richness of the main courses.
Patate al Forno: Roast potatoes with rosemary, crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside.
Verdure Grigliate: Grilled vegetables such as aubergines, courgettes, and peppers drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with sea salt.
Insalata di Finocchi e Arance: A refreshing fennel and orange salad, perfect for cutting through the richness of the main dishes.
5. Dolci (Desserts)
Italian Christmas desserts are as diverse as the country’s regions. Here are some classics:
Panettone: This light, sweet bread is filled with raisins and candied fruits. Serve it with mascarpone cream for an extra indulgence.
Torrone: A traditional nougat made with honey, sugar, egg whites, and almonds.
Tiramisu: While not strictly a Christmas dessert, its rich layers of coffee-soaked biscuits and mascarpone cream make it a festive favourite.
6. Digestivi
To round off the meal, it’s customary to serve a digestivo, a liqueur that aids digestion:
Limoncello: A sweet and tangy lemon liqueur, perfect for a refreshing finish.
Grappa: A strong spirit made from grape pomace, not for the faint-hearted.
Amaro: A herbal liqueur with a bittersweet taste, enjoyed by many after a big meal.
Wine Pairing Suggestions
No Italian feast is complete without the perfect wines. Here are a few pairings:
Antipasti: Prosecco or a light white wine such as Vermentino.
Primi: A Sangiovese for pasta dishes or a Pinot Grigio for risotto.
Secondi: A robust red wine like Barolo or Chianti for meats; a crisp white like Verdicchio for fish.
Dolci: Moscato d’Asti for a sweet and bubbly finish.
Cooking Tips and Tricks
Preparation is key: Many Italian Christmas dishes can be made ahead of time, such as sauces and desserts, which allows you to enjoy the day without stress.
Quality ingredients: Italian cooking relies heavily on the quality of the ingredients. Fresh herbs, good olive oil, and fresh produce make all the difference.
Pacing: Italian meals are leisurely affairs. Take your time between courses, allowing everyone to savour each dish.
Recreating an Italian Christmas feast at home is not just about the food; it’s about the experience, the togetherness, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. By following this guide, you can bring a touch of Italian tradition to your Christmas celebrations, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Buon Natale e Buon Appetito!
Get Ready to Cook: MEATER PRO XL is Now Available for Pre-Order Ahead of Its Official Launch on September 12th
MEATER Pro XL boasts four probes with one centralised digital charging hub, providing users with the versatility to cook multiple dishes simultaneously in different cooking methods and to different temperatures, thus making hosting easier than ever before.
MEATER Pro XL smart meat thermometer includes several added key features and advancements, including built-in WiFi, unlimited range via MEATER Cloud, and a USB-C rechargeable battery.
The MEATER Pro product collection represents the pinnacle of smart cooking technology, designed to elevate the culinary experience for both home cooks and professional chefs. This premier product line includes the renamed MEATER Pro, formerly known as MEATER 2 Plus, which features advanced temperature monitoring capabilities with enhanced accuracy, extended wireless range, and increased durability.
MEATER Pro, along with MEATER Pro XL, offer seamless integration with the MEATER app, providing users with guided cooking, custom alerts, and detailed data logging. These innovations ensure perfect results every time, making the MEATER Pro and MEATER Pro XL indispensable tools for any kitchen. Especially in the run-up to Christmas where we all tend to cook massive feasts for the extended family.
“MEATER Pro XL is a genuine testament to our commitment to pushing the boundaries of culinary technology," stated MEATER President Jim Hardy.
“With the advanced MEATER Pro probes and the intuitive digital charge hub, we've created a tool that not only enhances cooking precision but also transforms the cooking experience, making it more enjoyable and stress-free for everyone."
The all-new MEATER Pro XL ensures precise and consistent cooking, achieving custom desired doneness levels. MEATER Pro XL includes the following new features, advancements, and upgrades:
● Strong Wireless Connectivity: MEATER Pro XL features built-in WiFi with a patented high-performance antenna which is fully compatible with MEATER Link WiFi and Cloud, ensuring seamless connectivity and advanced functionality for all cooking needs.
● Four Full Metal Probes: The device is equipped with four stainless steel probes designed for faster ambient readings and exceptional durability, allowing precise temperature control even in the most intense cooking conditions. Pro XL is capable of withstanding up to 550°C thanks to its Flame Guard™ design and advanced ambient sensors, making it ideal for open flame grilling and high-heat searing.
● 100% Waterproof: The waterproof probes are suitable for a variety of cooking methods including deep frying and sous vide. Additionally, they are dishwasher-safe, ensuring easy cleaning and maintenance, too.
● USB-C Charging: Experience extended battery life and super-fast USB-C charging, with fully charged probes lasting over 24 hours. The Bluetooth 5 connectivity with coded PHY ensures long-range communication, making the Pro XL ideal for extended cooking sessions with reliable connection throughout.
● Easy to Use App: The MEATER app, featuring the MEATER Master Class™ guide, provides step-by-step instructions to help users create delicious meals. The app includes guided cooking, custom alerts, and detailed data logging, making the cooking process more intuitive and enjoyable.
● Precision Calibrated Probes: Each probe offers the utmost accuracy within 0.1°C. This high level of precision allows for exact temperature readings, making it easier than ever to achieve the desired level of preparedness.
● Ultra Slim Design: The 5mm diameter of the probes allows for more accurate temperature readings and helps maintain the integrity and appearance of the meat.
● Unlimited Range: By connecting to the MEATER Cloud, users can monitor their cooking from anywhere with an internet connection. This feature allows you to check the status of your cooking, receive alerts, and adjust settings remotely, offering unparalleled flexibility and control.
● Smart Temp™ Multi Sensors: The MEATER Pro XL features five high-resolution internal temperature sensors and one ambient sensor. This setup accurately measures the core temperature of the protein, minimizing probe placement errors and ensuring flawless results.
The MEATER Pro XL, the latest advancement in MEATER’s premium product collection, is now available for pre-order on MEATER.com for £329.00 and will officially launch on September 12th.
To learn more about MEATER or to pre-order the MEATER Pro XL, please visit www.meater.com and download the MEATER App in the Apple Store and Google Play. For the latest updates on promotions, announcements, food and fun, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, X, and Pinterest.
That's Christmas thinks this will make excellent early Christmas presents for the home chefs in your life.
Cocoba Chocolate and The Gruffalo collaborate for an exciting partnership!
The Gruffalo, the best-selling children’s picture book created by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, is licensed by Magic Light Pictures.
Watch in delight as children (and grown-ups alike) immerse themselves into the magical world of The Gruffalo. Cocoba have created a Belgian chocolate bombe shaped as the much-loved Gruffalo character that, when submerged in hot milk, reveals delightful surprises within. As the steaming hot milk melts the chocolate, it uncovers delicious fluffy mini marshmallows nestled within.
The range also includes Gruffalo-themed hot chocolate spoons, perfect for stirring into warm milk to create a rich and creamy hot chocolate. Additionally, Cocoba offers Gruffalo-themed chocolatey bites, and Gruffalo hot chocolate stirrers, each adding a touch of magic and deliciousness to your hot chocolate experience.
"We're really utterly thrilled to announce our partnership with The Gruffalo. This marks an incredibly exciting time for Cocoba as we team up with this beloved children's story. Our dedication to crafting magic, innovation, and delicious products is unmatched,” said Founder and self-admitted chief chocaholic Darren Litton.
With prices starting at a decent £2.95 and also beautifully packaged, The Gruffalo range is ideal for gifting or for a delightful treat anytime. That's Christmas thinks these will be making their ways into Christmas stockings aand from them into appreciative tummies all over the UK.
We personally feel you should buy at lease double the amount you were thinking of so that you can get together and have a Gruffalo and Cocoba themed chocolate session as part of your Christmas festivities this year. Maybe a good new family Christmas tradition to start?
Please visit Cocoba Chocolate’s website for more information including the hot chocolate bombes, spoons and vegan product range at www.CocobaChocolate.com
Tuesday 27 August 2024
Crafting a Merry Christmas: DIY Low-Cost Decorations and Gifts from Budget-Friendly Retailers
1. Homemade Christmas Ornaments
Ornaments are a wonderful way to add a personal touch to your Christmas tree. Making your own is not only cost-effective but also fun and rewarding.
Clear Bauble Ornaments: Clear plastic baubles are a versatile base for many DIY projects and can be found at retailers like The Range or One Beyond. Fill them with glitter, confetti, or even tiny festive figurines, all of which are easily found in budget stores. For a more personalised touch, add a small scroll with a handwritten message inside.
Salt Dough Decorations: Mix up some simple salt dough (flour, salt, and water) and roll it out to cut into festive shapes with cookie cutters. Use a straw to poke a hole at the top for hanging. Once baked and cooled, paint them in your favourite Christmas colours. This is a great project to do with children, and the decorations can be used year after year.
Pinecone Decorations: Collect pinecones from your garden or a local park. Spray paint them in festive colours, like gold or silver, and attach a ribbon for hanging. You can also add a dusting of glitter for a bit of sparkle.
2. DIY Wreaths and Garlands
Wreaths and garlands bring a festive feel to your home, and making your own allows you to customise them to your taste and décor.
Bauble Wreath: Collect a variety of baubles from stores like Poundland, Dollar General, or the Reject Shop. Using a wire coat hanger bent into a circle as a base, thread the baubles onto the wire, alternating colours and sizes. Once full, twist the ends of the hanger together and add a festive ribbon for hanging.
Evergreen Garland: Purchase faux greenery from retailers like The Range or Woolworths. Weave in fairy lights, pinecones, and ribbon for a custom garland. This can be draped over mantels, doorways, or staircases to add a festive touch to any space.
Handcrafted gifts show your loved ones how much you care. With supplies from stores like Rymans, Ackermans, and PEP, you can create unique and thoughtful presents.
Personalised Mugs: Plain mugs are often available at budget stores like Dollar Tree or PEP. Use ceramic paints or oil-based markers to personalise them with names, festive designs, or inspirational quotes. Bake the mugs in the oven to set the paint, making them dishwasher safe. Fill them with hot chocolate sachets, mini marshmallows, or tea bags for a complete gift.
Homemade Candles: Candle-making kits or supplies (wax, wicks, and containers) can be found at The Range or Woolworths. Add essential oils for a custom scent and pour the wax into small glass jars or teacups. Decorate the jars with a ribbon or label for a polished look.
Photo Frames: Pick up a basic photo frame from a store like Rymans or the Reject Shop. Decorate the frame with paint, glitter, or natural materials like shells or twigs. Insert a cherished photo or a festive quote for a gift that’s sure to be treasured.
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Setting a festive table is easy with a few DIY touches.
Mason Jar Centrepieces: Mason jars are incredibly versatile and available at most budget stores. Fill them with fairy lights, cranberries, or even small baubles. Line them up along the centre of your table for a simple yet charming display.
DIY Napkin Rings: Use wire, beads, or ribbon from stores like Rymans or Ackermans to create custom napkin rings. For a rustic look, tie a sprig of rosemary or a cinnamon stick to each napkin with twine.
5. Gift Wrapping and Tags
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Custom Wrapping Paper: Purchase plain brown or white paper from Dollar Tree or Poundland and decorate it with stamps, stencils, or even hand-drawn designs. This gives your gifts a personal and creative touch. You can also use pages from old books or newspapers for a vintage look.
Handmade Gift Tags: Use cardstock from Rymans or Woolworths to cut out simple shapes like stars, trees, or hearts. Decorate with glitter, paint, or markers. Punch a hole and thread through some twine or ribbon, and you have unique gift tags that add a special touch to your presents.
Conclusion
The holiday season is a time to celebrate creativity and thoughtfulness. By using materials from budget-friendly retailers like Dollar Tree, The Range, Poundland, and their equivalents in South Africa and Australia, you can craft decorations and gifts that are both beautiful and meaningful. Whether you’re making ornaments, wreaths, personalised gifts, or festive table decorations, these projects will help you embrace the spirit of Christmas without breaking the bank. Happy crafting, and may your holiday season be filled with joy and creativity!
Sunday 25 August 2024
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Friday 16 August 2024
New Twists on Classical Christmas Foods and Drinks
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However, there's no harm in shaking things up a bit. Here are some innovative twists on classical Christmas foods and drinks that will add a touch of excitement to your holiday table.
1. Roasted Turkey with a Citrus Glaze
The centrepiece of many Christmas dinners is the turkey, typically served with cranberry sauce and stuffing. This year, why not give the traditional roast turkey a zesty update? A citrus glaze can add a fresh and vibrant flavour to the bird, cutting through the richness of the meat and bringing a welcome brightness to your plate.
Recipe Idea: Prepare a glaze using a blend of orange, lemon, and lime juice, combined with honey, garlic, and a dash of chilli flakes. Baste the turkey with this mixture during the last hour of roasting for a beautifully caramelised skin and a succulent, flavour-infused meat.
2. Parsnip and Maple Syrup Mash
Mashed potatoes are a staple at Christmas dinner, but this year, try swapping them out for a parsnip and maple syrup mash. Parsnips provide a slightly sweet and earthy flavour, which pairs perfectly with the subtle sweetness of maple syrup.
Recipe Idea: Boil parsnips until tender, then mash with a generous knob of butter, a splash of milk, and a drizzle of maple syrup. Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of nutmeg for a warming, comforting side dish that complements the richness of your main course.
3. Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta and Pomegranate
Brussels sprouts are often met with mixed feelings, but this recipe is sure to win over even the most reluctant diner. By adding crispy pancetta and sweet, tangy pomegranate seeds, you can transform these humble greens into a festive treat.
Recipe Idea: Sauté halved Brussels sprouts in olive oil until they start to brown. Add diced pancetta and cook until crisp. Toss in a handful of pomegranate seeds just before serving. The result is a delightful combination of flavours and textures that will add a pop of colour to your Christmas spread.
4. Gingerbread Espresso Martini
For a festive twist on a classic cocktail, try a Gingerbread Espresso Martini. This drink captures the essence of Christmas with its rich, spicy notes and warming kick.
Recipe Idea: Combine espresso, vodka, coffee liqueur, and a homemade gingerbread syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a small gingerbread biscuit on the rim for an extra touch of Christmas cheer.
5. Spiced Apple and Cranberry Mulled Wine
Mulled wine is a Christmas classic, but this year, consider adding some apple and cranberry to the mix for a fruity, aromatic twist.
Recipe Idea: In a large saucepan, gently heat red wine with apple juice, fresh cranberries, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and a slice of orange. Sweeten to taste with brown sugar or honey. Let the mixture simmer gently, allowing the flavours to meld together, then ladle into mugs and serve warm.
6. Chocolate and Cherry Trifle
Trifle is a beloved British dessert that graces many a Christmas table. This year, switch up the traditional recipe by incorporating chocolate and cherries for a decadent, festive treat.
Recipe Idea: Layer chocolate sponge cake, cherry compote, chocolate custard, and whipped cream in a large trifle bowl. Top with chocolate shavings and fresh cherries for a stunning centrepiece that tastes as good as it looks.
These new twists on classical Christmas foods and drinks are sure to impress your guests and bring a fresh flavour to your holiday celebrations. Whether you're a traditionalist at heart or a culinary adventurer, these ideas offer a delicious way to spice up your Christmas menu.
Thinking of Christmas gifts? Better get your skates on!
Our extensive scooter range goes from standard threaded models, right through IHC, SCS up to HIC scooter models.
They have some incredible stunt scooters featuring 110mm, 110mm, all the way up to 125mm wheels.
All the stunt scooters they offer can spin 360° and are perfect for testing your mettle down at the local skatepark.
Stunt scooters are also known as trick scooters; therefore they are carefully designed and constructed only with reinforced parts to withstand the force exerted on them while being used for tricks and stunts.
Skates.co.uk offer an extensive selection of the world’s top stunt scooters all on the one website with fantastic technical advice and expertise from their team to help you make the right selection.
With free next day delivery and a full catalogue of scooter accessories like Apex Pro Scooters aftermarket handlebars, SCS, wheels and the fantastic Root Wheels, what more could you possibly need?
But there's more! Nearly all of their stunt scooters come with a special free gift, maybe a Bonus Pack which includes Grip tape, Stickers, Wax, a Drawstring Bag and Bearings.
They've got some of the most sought after brands, all under the one roof! These include the industry leading MGP Scooters with their huge range of integrated stunt scooters as well as the freestyle scootering champions all the way from Australia, Sacrifice Scooters.
Foldable scooters are also available, too.
But as the name will tell you, there are much more than scooters from Skates.co.uk! You can also check out their amazing range of Quad roller skates all from world leading brands.
Also you can benefit from a cool 5% discount on your first order.
Opies Offer Inspiring Christmas food gifts: for avid home cooks, secret Santa surprises or superb stocking fillers
Add next-level flavours to meringues, roulades, sparkling cocktails and more.
Inspirational on-pack recipes for flavour-filled puddings and desserts to make at home.
They are the ideal Christmas gift solution: an attractive, classy yet affordable stocking filler gift, addition to a home-made food hamper or a festive treat for hard-to-buy for family and friends who love food and who love to cook.
Giving a foodie gift at Christmas is guaranteed to be well received. It’s a sure-fire success and a guaranteed top choice.
Or, perhaps for a co-worker you know very well and are certain Opies will be a very welcome gift for them.
And if you want to be a little more opulent, then they will also make a welcome addition to your own, personally selected, self-styled hamper. Or a great luxury Christmas hamper for your spouse, parent or grandparent.
Opies new range of four popular fruits which are generously preserved in exceptional quality Luxardo® liqueur are presented in sleek and stylish Kilner jars.
Choose from succulent, delicious peaches lovingly steeped in a 12-year old Luxardo® brandy, indulgent and luxurious black cherries soaked in Luxardo® Kirsch, rich and opulent baby pears drenched in Luxardo® Amaretto and sharp and intense Forest Fruits covered in a Luxardo® mulled gin.
My personal favourite is the baby peaches in Kirsch,but my wife and I love all of them very much indeed.
This affordable Christmas food gift is just £14.95 and is great to keep in reserve for that last-minute forgotten gift and will be deemed much more thoughtful than a 'recycled’ bottle of wine!
Besides making an attractive, popular and thoughtful gift, these boozy fruits can single-handedly revolutionise your festive menus.
Not only making an ideal, convenient, standby dessert served with a dollop of double cream or clotted cream, or perhaps generous scoop of luxury ice cream, they can replace fresh or canned fruits to significantly increase the flavour intensity of a dessert.
You can use them to boost up an otherwise humble crumbles captivating, titivate trifles or more besides.
There is an on-pack recipe plus a veritable of interesting and inspirational ideas at www.bennettopie.com
And as these are from Opies, you can be certain all the fruits are packed by hand and specially paired with exceptional Luxardo® spirits, which is internationally respected and loved and whose legacy has been appreciated by royalty and the world’s top bartenders alike.
To make the absolute most of the jar and to avoid any waste, once you have used the first-rate fruits there are lots of ways to use the leftover precious Luxardo® syrup too. For carefully curated cocktails, mix the syrup with a little water to make boozy ice cubes, or for parties warm and combine with gelatine and champagne to create grown-up jellies.
For a savoury twist, mix with a little cornflour to thicken then drizzle over meats like roast duck or pork to make an extraordinary glaze. (To be perfectly honest, I'm always tempted to just glug them down, so I'll take this advice to make the most of them in our Christmas time cooking and drinking!)
The stylish Kilner jars are reusable and have a whole multiplicity of onward uses. Once cleaned and dried out they are perfect for safely storing herbs, spices, nuts and dried fruits as well as making a wonderful able decoration filled with tea lights or fairy lights.
Buy from speciality food shops or online at www.bennettopie.com