A Guide to Creating the Ultimate Christmas Cheese Board

Nothing says festive indulgence quite like a well-curated Christmas cheese board. 

It’s the perfect centrepiece for festive gatherings, offering a mix of textures, flavours, and pairings to delight your guests. 

Whether you’re a cheese connoisseur or a complete novice, this guide will help you create a show-stopping cheese board that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

1. Start with the Cheeses

A great cheese board begins with the star of the show: the cheese. Aim for a mix of flavours, textures, and milk types (cow, goat, and sheep) to cater to a range of tastes.

Essential Cheeses for a Christmas Cheese Board:

Aged: A classic Cheddar or Gruyère for a nutty, robust flavour.

Soft: Brie or Camembert for creamy indulgence.

Blue: Stilton or Roquefort for a tangy, bold bite.

Goat’s Cheese: A mild and tangy addition, often with a festive coating like cranberries.

Vegan Cheeses: Finding good quality, tasty vegan cheeses can be a bit challenging. We'll write on this topic, in a future blog.

Speciality Cheeses: Look for festive options, such as a Wensleydale with cranberries or a truffle-infused cheese.

How Much Cheese to Buy:

Plan for about 75–125 grams of cheese per person, depending on whether the board is a main feature or just a nibble.

2. Add Crackers and Bread

Cheese needs the perfect vehicle, so include a variety of crackers and bread to complement your selection.

Crackers: Choose a mix of textures, such as seeded crackers, oatcakes, and water biscuits.

Bread: Fresh baguette slices, sourdough, or walnut bread pair beautifully with many cheeses.

Festive Twists: Add some gingerbread biscuits or spiced fruit loaf for a seasonal touch.

3. Sweet and Savoury Pairings

Pairing cheese with the right accompaniments elevates the experience. A mix of sweet and savoury options ensures there’s something for everyone.

Sweet Pairings:

Fresh Fruit: Grapes, figs, and apple slices add natural sweetness.

Dried Fruit: Apricots, dates, or dried cranberries offer concentrated flavour.

Honey: Drizzle a little over blue cheese or goat’s cheese for a divine contrast.

Jams and Chutneys: Fig jam, onion chutney, or spiced apple jelly are festive favourites.

Savoury Pairings:

Olives: Add green or black olives for a salty, briny bite.

Nuts: Walnuts, almonds, or pecans provide crunch and complement creamy cheeses.

Pickles: Include cornichons or pickled onions for a tangy kick.

4. Incorporate Festive Flair

Make your cheese board stand out with seasonal decorations and flavours.

Seasonal Garnishes: Use sprigs of rosemary, pinecones, or edible flowers to add a festive touch.

Christmas-Themed Cheese Shapes: Use cookie cutters to cut cheese into stars or Christmas tree shapes.

Cranberry Sauce: A quintessential festive condiment that pairs beautifully with many cheeses.

5. Arrange Like a Pro

The visual appeal of your cheese board is just as important as the flavours.

Use a Large Board: Wooden boards, slate, or marble are great bases.

Start with the Cheese: Place the cheeses first, spacing them evenly around the board.

Add Accompaniments in Groups: Arrange crackers, fruits, and nuts in clusters to create balance.

Fill the Gaps: Use small items like nuts, berries, or herbs to fill in any empty spaces.

Pro Tip: Label each cheese with small tags to help guests identify their favourites.

6. Don’t Forget the Drinks

Pair your cheese board with festive beverages to complete the experience.

Wine: Offer red, white, and sparkling options. A bold red like Merlot or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc works well with many cheeses.

Port: A traditional pairing with Stilton and other blue cheeses.

Beer: Choose craft beers or ales for a more casual vibe.

Non-Alcoholic Options: Sparkling water with a splash of cranberry or elderflower is a refreshing choice.

7. Bonus: Make It Personal

For an extra-special touch, personalise your cheese board:

DIY Cheese Labels: Handwrite tags with fun descriptions or festive notes.

Themed Boards: Focus on a regional theme, such as all-British cheeses, or create a board featuring only festive flavours.

Individual Boards: Prepare mini cheese platters for each guest—ideal for smaller gatherings.

Conclusion

A Christmas cheese board is more than just a snack—it’s an experience. By carefully selecting your cheeses, adding complementary accompaniments, and arranging everything with flair, you can create a festive masterpiece that’s sure to impress. Whether it’s a cosy family evening or a lively holiday party, your cheese board will be a highlight of the celebration.

So, grab your favourite cheeses, let your creativity flow, and enjoy a truly delicious Christmas!

How to Stay Fit, Healthy, and Well Over Christmas

The festive season is a time for celebration, indulgence, and togetherness. 

However, between the mince pies, late-night parties, and endless commitments, it can be easy to let fitness and well-being take a backseat. 

The good news? You don’t have to choose between enjoying the festivities and staying healthy. 

With a little planning and mindfulness, you can make the most of the season without compromising your health or fitness goals.

Here’s how to stay fit, healthy, and well over Christmas.

1. Stay Active, Festively

Exercise might not feel like a priority when there’s so much going on, but staying active can boost your energy levels and help you manage the indulgences.

Make It Social: Plan a family walk after Christmas dinner, go ice skating, or organise a friendly game of football.

Try Festive Workouts: Join a Christmas-themed workout class or follow a short, festive workout video at home.

Sneak It In: If time is tight, do 10-15 minutes of bodyweight exercises in the morning to kickstart your day.

2. Balance Indulgence with Mindfulness

Christmas wouldn’t be the same without delicious treats, but mindful choices can help you feel your best.

Savour Treats: Enjoy festive foods in moderation. Focus on quality over quantity and truly savour each bite.

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you’re indulging in alcohol or salty snacks.

Fill Your Plate Wisely: At meals, load up on vegetables and lean proteins before reaching for heavier dishes.

3. Don’t Skip Meals

Skipping meals to “save up” for a big Christmas feast might sound logical, but it often leads to overeating later.

Eat Regularly: Stick to a routine of healthy meals and snacks to maintain energy and prevent overindulgence.

Healthy Breakfasts: Start your day with a nutritious breakfast, like porridge with festive spices or a smoothie packed with greens and berries.

4. Get Enough Sleep

With late-night gatherings and early starts, sleep often takes a hit during Christmas. However, rest is essential for maintaining energy and well-being.

Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours per night, even during the holidays.

Wind Down: Create a relaxing bedtime routine, such as reading or enjoying a cup of herbal tea.

Nap Wisely: If late nights leave you tired, a short nap (20-30 minutes) can help you recharge.

5. Manage Stress Levels

The festive season can be stressful, with endless to-do lists and high expectations. Taking time to relax is crucial.

Practise Mindfulness: Use techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to stay calm and present.

Delegate Tasks: Don’t try to do everything yourself. Ask family members to help with cooking, decorating, or wrapping gifts.

Say No When Needed: It’s okay to decline invitations or simplify plans if you’re feeling overwhelmed.

6. Stay Hydrated

Hydration is often overlooked amidst festive drinks and busy schedules, but it’s vital for energy and well-being.

Drink Water First: Start your day with a glass of water and keep a bottle handy throughout the day.

Limit Sugary Drinks: Choose water, herbal teas, or sparkling water with a splash of fruit juice as festive alternatives.

Alcohol Moderation: Alternate alcoholic beverages with water to stay hydrated and avoid overindulgence.

7. Keep Your Immune System Strong

With cold weather and busy schedules, it’s easy to feel run down during the holidays.

Eat a Rainbow: Include a variety of fruits and vegetables in your meals to get essential vitamins and minerals.

Take Time to Rest: Listen to your body and take breaks when needed.

Wash Your Hands: Prevent seasonal illnesses by practising good hygiene, especially when out and about.

8. Embrace the Outdoors

Fresh air and natural light can do wonders for your mood and energy levels.

Winter Walks: Explore local parks, nature trails, or Christmas light displays.

Morning Sunlight: Step outside in the morning to boost your vitamin D levels and set your circadian rhythm.

Cold Weather Benefits: Embrace the invigorating chill—it’s a great excuse to layer up in cosy knits and scarves!

9. Stay Connected

Well-being isn’t just about physical health; emotional health matters too.

Spend Time with Loved Ones: Make meaningful connections with family and friends.

Reach Out: If someone seems lonely or stressed, a kind word or thoughtful gesture can make a big difference.

Set Boundaries: Balance social commitments with quiet time to recharge.

10. Reflect and Set Intentions

As the year comes to a close, Christmas is the perfect time to reflect on your achievements and set intentions for the future.

Gratitude Practice: Reflect on what you’re grateful for and share it with your loved ones.

Plan for Wellness: Think about how you can carry healthy habits into the new year.

Celebrate Your Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate your personal successes from the past year.

Final Thoughts

Christmas is a time for joy and celebration, but it doesn’t have to come at the expense of your health and well-being. By staying active, making mindful choices, and prioritising self-care, you can enjoy a balanced and happy festive season.

Here’s to a fit, healthy, and wonderfully festive Christmas!

Buying a VR Headset for Christmas: A Guide for Tech Enthusiasts and Gamers

Virtual reality (VR) headsets have revolutionised gaming and entertainment, offering immersive experiences that transport users to entirely new worlds. 

Whether you’re battling aliens in an intergalactic war, solving intricate puzzles in fantasy realms, or attending a virtual concert with friends from across the globe, VR promises unparalleled interaction and excitement. 

However, choosing the right VR headset can be daunting, especially with the myriad of options available. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision.

Key Factors to Consider

1. Platform Compatibility

Before diving into the technical details, ensure the VR headset is compatible with your existing setup:

PC-Driven Headsets: These require a powerful gaming PC to run. Examples include the Valve Index and HTC Vive Pro. They offer high fidelity and are ideal for hardcore gamers.

Console-Compatible Headsets: If you own a PlayStation, the PS VR2 is a top choice, offering seamless integration with the PS5.

Standalone Headsets: These work independently without needing a PC or console. The Meta Quest 3 is a leading option in this category, providing versatility and portability.

2. Display Quality

The quality of the display significantly impacts your VR experience. Look for:

Resolution: Higher resolution reduces the "screen door effect," where individual pixels become noticeable.

Refresh Rate: A higher refresh rate (90Hz or more) ensures smooth visuals, reducing motion sickness.

Field of View (FoV): A wider FoV enhances immersion, making the experience more lifelike.

3. Tracking and Controllers

Precise tracking ensures your movements are accurately replicated in the virtual world.

Inside-Out Tracking: Built-in cameras track your position without external sensors, as seen in the Meta Quest series.

Outside-In Tracking: Requires external sensors for higher accuracy, common in PC VR setups like the Valve Index.

Controllers should feel intuitive, with responsive buttons, haptic feedback, and ergonomic design.

4. Comfort and Build

Long gaming sessions demand a comfortable headset. Check for:

Adjustable straps for a secure fit.

Lightweight designs to reduce strain.

Proper ventilation to prevent overheating.

5. Content Library

Your headset choice will influence the games and experiences available. Platforms like SteamVR, PlayStation VR, and the Meta store each have exclusive titles. Research the library to ensure it aligns with your interests.

6. Price and Value

VR headsets vary widely in price, from budget-friendly standalone options to premium PC setups. Factor in additional costs for accessories like base stations, upgraded head straps, or prescription lens inserts.

Top Recommendations (2024)

Meta Quest 3 (£500-600)

Standalone functionality with optional PC tethering.

High-resolution display and advanced mixed reality capabilities.

Ideal for casual and intermediate users.

Valve Index (£900-1,000+)

Exceptional build quality and immersive tracking.

Best for dedicated PC gamers.

PS VR2 (£530)

Designed for PlayStation 5 owners.

Stunning visuals and haptic feedback in controllers.

Pico 4 (£380-450)

Budget-friendly standalone headset.

Solid performance and growing content library.

Future Trends to Watch

As VR technology evolves, expect advancements in:

Wireless capabilities: Eliminating the need for cumbersome cables.

Haptics: Enhanced feedback for a more tactile experience.

Augmented Reality (AR) Integration: Blurring the lines between real and virtual worlds.

Final Thoughts

Investing in a VR headset is your ticket to exploring captivating new worlds and connecting with others in groundbreaking ways. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or a curious tech enthusiast, there's a headset to suit your needs. Take the time to evaluate your preferences, budget, and compatibility requirements, and prepare to immerse yourself in the next frontier of gaming and entertainment.

Happy virtual exploring!

Looking for a Christmas break? KnowRoaming has perfect plans for price-savvy winter travellers

New research from the Association of British Travel Agents shows that almost a third of Britons will be travelling beyond the UK’s borders to warmer climates this year, while nearly 30% of Americans will travel over the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, according to a newly released study by travel website The Vacationer.

However, as much as Northern Hemisphere holidaymakers will be jetting off to exotic locales or road-tripping this winter, they will be cautious about spending. 

As PwC’s 2024 Holiday Outlook points out, while inflation has cooled this year, the “cumulative effect of price increases over recent years continues to influence spending patterns”.

The PwC report says many travellers are using reward redemptions for hotel and guesthouse bookings or choosing to stay with friends and family as costs are now at the forefront of their minds.

This need for smart spending has prompted global eSIM service provider KnowRoaming to launch its best-ever Global Unlimited eSIM plans for travellers who want high-speed data on demand.

Globetrotters can now choose a 3-Day Plan ($7.99), 5-Day Plan ($11.99), 10-Day Plan ($22.99) or 15-Day Plan ($34,99)to suit their itinerary. Each plan, which carries a massive 80% discount, includes 2GB of high-speed data daily and reduced speeds after reaching the daily limit.

eSIM technology has revolutionised connectivity by embedding a programmable SIM directly into devices, eliminating the need for physical SIM cards. Research by global data specialist Statista shows that almost 600 million eSIM smartphone connections worldwide were made in 2024—more than three times the number reported in 2022.

Once the global eSIM is downloaded, a traveller is set for life, as it can be activated and topped up at any time. KnowRoaming’s Global Unlimited eSIM plans offer seamless coverage, with multiple networks accessible in more than 140 destinations worldwide.

The plans, available on www.KnowRoaming.com and iOS and Android, can be purchased by downloading the app, selecting the plan that best suits the traveller’s trip length, and activating the technology at no extra cost.

Travel blogger and photographer Jodie Dewberry has been based in Portugal, Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia, Australia, and Morocco this year alone. She has found that using eSIMS guarantee data coverage for her work.

“eSIMS are much more convenient than physical SIM cards. You can organise and download the app before you travel, so there's no need to waste time on arrival. It also means you have instant access to data when you land at a new destination, which is sometimes when you need it the most,” Dewberry says.

Inma Gregorio, another travel blogger and content creator who has lived in Canada, the US, Germany, Portugal, France, Morocco and Hungary, says eSIMS are a “no-brainer” for anyone who relies on connectivity to work on the go. “They’ve been fantastic, especially in Europe. I can avoid the hassle of hunting down physical SIM cards in every new place, and there is zero downtime waiting for connectivity.”

Get ready, be entertained and give back this Christmas with Linkage Community Trust

December kicks off with Linkage’s Pre-loved Christmas Extravaganza on Sunday 1st December. A free event at the Kenwick Park Hotel in Louth.

Christmas has officially begun at Linkage Community Trust, the registered charity that supports people with learning disabilities and autism across Greater Lincolnshire and Yorkshire. 

Linkage College performing arts students from across their four campuses have been getting involved in local events from opening the Flemingate Light Switch on in Beverly to opening the Great Grimsby’s Christmas Festival.

December kicks off with Linkage’s Pre-loved Christmas Extravaganza on Sunday 1st December. A free event at the Kenwick Park Hotel in Louth for all the family.

It's a fantastic opportunity to spend a Sunday afternoon sustainably shopping from a large range of pre-love decorations and toys ready for the big day itself. 

Alongside festive snacks, refreshments, games and music from Linkage Performing Arts, every purchase made will help support the services Linkage provides.

It’s not too late to get your hands on pantomime tickets as Linkage is proud to present ‘It’s a Panto… Get Me Out of Here!’ Performed by an all-inclusive cast from the Linkage Choices performing arts group, at The Riverside Theatre in Louth on Tuesday 10th December. It’s a panto but not as you know it, are you ready for a wonderful big twist?

If you’d like to give back this holiday season, make twice the difference and spread some festive magic by supporting Linkage Community Trust in the Big Give Christmas Challenge.

From midday on Tuesday 3rd December to midday on Tuesday 10th December 2024, every donation made to Linkage through the Big Give Christmas Challenge will be matched pound-for-pound. That means your generosity can go twice as far, helping to provide services that support people with learning disabilities and autism across Greater Lincolnshire and Yorkshire.

Linkage Digital Fundraiser, Emily Middleton says, “Every gift matters and by participating, you’ll be helping us build a brighter, more inclusive future for individuals with learning disabilities and autism. Together, we can empower more people to achieve their potential and experience the independence they deserve. This Christmas, we’re inviting everyone to join us to make an even bigger impact.”

The Big Give Christmas Challenge is the UK’s largest match-funding campaign, turning every pound donated into two. Thanks to the £6,300 pledge made by the City of Lincoln Bridge Club, raised during their Winter Bridge Tournament, and Big Give champion, The Reed Foundation, every donation made to Linkage during the campaign will have double the impact. This is a great opportunity to maximise the power of your contribution.

https://www.linkage.org.uk

Staying Connected with Family Over Christmas: Using Social Media and Messaging Apps

The festive season is a time to cherish family connections, but for many of us, distance can make in-person gatherings difficult. Fortunately, social media platforms and messaging apps make it easier than ever to bridge the gap and stay close to loved ones, no matter where they are in the world.

Here's how you can use tools like Telegram, Facebook, and others to make your Christmas extra special. 

Years ago my father wanted to enable a family chat between my mother's sister in the States and our family as a Christmas treat for my mother. 

The call had to be booked hours in advance and then connection was made by the operator and the quality of the line left a lot to be desired as we all huddled round the hall by our phone. And the cost? It was a small fortune!

But now staying connected with family member, no matter where they live in the world is as easy as following these ideas:-

1. Organise a Family Group Chat

Creating a family group chat on apps like Telegram, WhatsApp, or Facebook Messenger is one of the simplest ways to keep everyone connected. You can share updates, Christmas plans, and festive photos in real-time.

Why Telegram? It supports large groups and offers fun features like stickers, GIFs, and voice messages. Bonus: It’s secure and has great cross-device syncing.

Why WhatsApp? It’s easy to use and widely popular, making it accessible for less tech-savvy relatives.

Top Tip: Set group ground rules to prevent message overload. For example, designate specific times for chats or festive updates.

2. Schedule a Virtual Celebration

If you can't be together in person, host a virtual Christmas party! Platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or even Facebook Rooms are perfect for this. Plan a time for everyone to gather, and include fun activities such as:

A virtual gift exchange.

Sharing holiday stories.

Singing carols together.

Top Tip: Send out invitations in advance and test the tech with less tech-savvy family members beforehand to avoid day-of mishaps.

3. Share Moments with Social Media

Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok offer creative ways to celebrate and share the Christmas spirit.

On Facebook, create a private group to share photos, videos, and updates exclusively with your family.

Use Instagram Stories or Reels to post snippets of your Christmas preparations or special moments.

Record a fun family video on TikTok and tag relatives for some holiday cheer.

Top Tip: Encourage everyone to post something festive, like their Christmas tree, favourite holiday recipes, or the opening of presents.

4. Create a Collaborative Holiday Album

Google Photos and similar apps allow you to create a shared album where everyone can upload and view Christmas pictures and videos. It's a wonderful way to document the holiday season collectively, especially if family members are spread across different locations.

5. Send Personalised Messages

While group chats are great, a one-on-one message can make someone feel truly special. Use platforms like Telegram or Messenger to send personal notes, voice messages, or even a video greeting. A heartfelt "Merry Christmas" can brighten anyone's day.

Top Tip: Add festive stickers or effects to your messages for a creative touch.

6. Play Virtual Games Together

Several apps and platforms allow you to play games together online. For instance:

Use Houseparty for fun, interactive games like trivia.

Organise a virtual Christmas quiz on Kahoot! or Quizizz.

Play board games digitally via Tabletopia or similar platforms.

7. Host a Countdown to Christmas

For an extra festive touch, organise an online countdown to Christmas Day. Each day, post something fun in your family group chat: a riddle, a memory, or a challenge. This builds anticipation and keeps everyone engaged throughout December.

8. Respect Time Zones and Schedules

If your family is scattered across different countries, be mindful of time zones. Use scheduling tools like Doodle or Time Zone Converter to find the best times for virtual gatherings or group chats.

Final Thoughts

Christmas is all about celebrating love, joy, and togetherness, and technology makes it easier than ever to stay connected. By using social media and messaging apps creatively, you can ensure that distance doesn’t dampen your holiday cheer. Whether it’s a simple video call or a full-blown virtual Christmas bash, these digital tools can make your celebrations merry and bright.

Merry Christmas and happy connecting! 

The Cube Birmingham and free@last Join Forces to Brighten Christmas for Local Kids

This Christmas gift drive is a chance for us all to come together and show local children they are valued and cared for.

This Christmas, The Cube is on a mission to deliver smiles to local children in need. 

Partnering with free@last, a Birmingham-based charity that supports children and families in Nechells, The Cube will host a festive gift drive from 26th November to 11th December.

How to Get Involved:

Collect a Tag: Each tag on the tree represents a gift wish from a child supported by free@last.

Fulfil the Wish: Purchase a gift based on the tag's details.

Deliver the Gift: Return your unwrapped gift to The Cube's concierge for collection.

These gifts will then be delivered to free@last, ensuring they reach children in time for Christmas.

The Cube encourages everyone to participate in this heartfelt campaign and take a moment to make a difference.

"As a central part of Birmingham, we have the opportunity and responsibility to make a positive impact," said Lauren Tozer, Senior Facilities Manager of The Cube. 

She went on to say: "This Christmas gift drive is a chance for us all to come together and show local children they are valued and cared for. Every contribution matters, and we're proud to partner with free@last to support this cause."

free@last has been at the heart of the Nechells community for 25 years, offering essential programmes and emotional support to families and young people. 

For many children, Christmas can be a difficult time. By taking part in this initiative, community members can help bring joy and hope to these children, ensuring they feel remembered and cared for during the festive season.

Learn more about free@last here: https://freeatlast.co.uk

For more information about the campaign, visit https://www.thecube.co.uk/celebrate-the-season-of-giving-at-the-cube-birmingham.

Just in time for Christmas, Steif launches new collection of festive plush toys

Just in time for Christmas, Steiff is launching a new collection of festive plush toys. 

The Christmas-themed novelties, including Snuffy the dog, Jimmy the teddy bear, Gilda the goose, and the Ben Teddy bear pendant, feature winter outfits and are sure to bring joy to young and old alike. 

The cuddly companions are available in selected stores and online. For more Christmas gift ideas, visit steiff.com.

Cosy Christmas Snuffy Dog

The soft plush dog Snuffy has donned an adorable red-and-white Christmas hat for the holidays. With this festive accessory, the 27 cm tall, brown-and-white pup is a delightful surprise under the Christmas tree or from St. Nicholas. A timelessly beautiful gift and a cheerful companion for any child.

Size: 27 cm Price: £ 34.90

Jimmy Teddy bear - Christmas

Featuring charming details like a festive hat and a checkered bow, the 30 cm tall Jimmy teddy bear is the perfect Christmas gift. With its curious black eyes, firm little nose, and fur made of wild cuddly plush, this classic in holiday attire will immediately win over any recipient.

Size: 30 cm Price: £ 39.90

Cosy Christmas Gilda Goose

Gilda Goose, dressed in super-soft plush feathers, is a fluffy delight to hold. With her red scarf, Gilda is a snuggly companion not just for the holiday season.Size: 26 cm

Price: £ 34.90

Cosy Christmas pendant Ben Teddy bear

The Ben Teddy bear pendant spreads festive cheer with his red-and-white Christmas hat. Whether on a keyring or school bag, the cuddly Ben is as soft and snuggly as his larger counterparts. At 12 cm tall, he makes keys easy to find in any bag and adds a festive touch to accessories. Dressed in such a festive outfit, Ben is a delightful surprise for an advent calendar or under the Christmas tree.

Size: 12 cm Price: £ 19.90

steiff.com

Jamu Wild Water Brings you Healthier Hydration From the Inside Out

Crush your health goals this Christmas and the following year with Jamu Wild Waters, the thirst quenching soft drinks that will help you reach your wellness potential. Vital at this time of year, especially keeping ourselves healthily hydrated.

What could be better than boosting your health whilst you are also hydrating your body? 

The perfect alternative to traditional sugar-laden fizzy drinks, and overly sweet juices, Jamu Wild Waters are the breath of fresh air you’ve been looking for. A grown up soft drink that will actually do you good!

100% natural, with no added sugars, Jamu Wild Waters will make it easy to hit your health goals with every sip. 

Boasting antioxidants, prebiotic fibre and natural, gut-friendly ingredients, these delicious drinks are also low calorie and contain nothing artificial, so making them your new go-to choice for refreshment.

Jamu Wild Water was born from a love of natural ingredients and a desire to create a product that not only offers healthier hydration, but also harnesses the power of plants to actively nourish. They are available in three delicious, all-natural flavours that support the gut, boost immunity and restore wellbeing in a mouthwatering sparkling water that's bursting with botanicals. 

Sparkling Raspberry combines antioxidant-rich elderberry and soothing mallow root with prebiotic fibre.

Sparkling Blood Orange mixes rosemary extract and immune boosting echinacea with prebiotic fibre. 

Sparkling Lemon boasts vitamin-rich nettle and dandelion extracts with prebiotic fibre.

These tasty gut-friendly drinks support the trillions of friendly microbes within our digestive system and pay tribute to the diverse botanicals that thrive in the UK. Each 250ml serve contains 5g of prebiotic fibre in the form of chicory root inulin, making up 100% of your daily prebiotic requirement. Inulin feeds the beneficial bacteria in your gut and allows them to flourish. Jamu Wild Water is also vegan.

Alongside the raft of healthy credentials, Jamu has also partnered with The Outward Bound Trust, to support the mental and physical wellbeing of young people by helping them to connect with the natural world, and find joy outdoors. Every drop of Jamu Wild Water is a celebration of nature and a commitment to a healthier and more sustainable future.

Jamu Wild Water is available in 250ml cans, RRP £2 a can from https://jamuwildwater.co.uk/

How to Organise and Host a Brilliant Christmas Quiz

The festive season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than by hosting a Christmas quiz? 

Whether it's at your local pub, for your club, your workmates, or just for family and friends, a quiz night is the perfect way to bring people together. 

It’s fun, festive, and filled with friendly competition. Here’s how to organise and host a Christmas quiz everyone will remember.

1. Choose Your Venue and Audience

The setting of your quiz will dictate a lot of your decisions. Are you hosting at a pub, your club, the office, or at home? 

For larger groups, a spacious venue with enough seating and a microphone might be necessary. For smaller, intimate gatherings, your living room or a cosy corner of a pub will do just fine.

Make sure the environment fits the tone of your quiz – fun and relaxed, with a touch of festive cheer.

2. Set the Date and Spread the Word

Pick a date that works for your audience, ideally a week or two before Christmas when the festive spirit is in full swing. Avoid overly busy dates like Christmas Eve or weekends when people may have other plans.

Send out invites via email, social media, or old-fashioned Christmas cards for a personal touch. Include details like the time, venue, and whether there’s a prize for the winners.

3. Create Festive Quiz Rounds

The heart of any quiz is its questions, so make them engaging and Christmassy. Here are some ideas for festive quiz rounds:

Christmas Films: Name the movie based on a quote or describe a plot in a few words.

Music Round: Play snippets of Christmas songs for teams to identify, or go for a “finish the lyrics” challenge.

General Knowledge: Mix in some Christmas-related trivia (e.g., What’s the best-selling Christmas single of all time?).

Picture Round: Show pictures of famous Christmas traditions, celebrities dressed as Santa, or festive foods.

History & Traditions: Questions about Christmas customs from around the world.

Keep the rounds balanced to suit everyone – not just the trivia buffs!

4. Equip Yourself With the Right Tools

You’ll need some essentials to keep the quiz running smoothly:

Answer Sheets: Provide sheets for teams to write down their answers.

A Timer: Keep rounds on schedule with a timer or stopwatch.

Speaker System: If it’s a large crowd, a microphone and speakers will ensure you’re heard.

Projector or Screen: Great for picture or video rounds.

You can also use online platforms like Kahoot or Google Forms for a tech-savvy quiz night.

5. Add Festive Decorations and Extras

Set the mood with Christmas decorations. Hang fairy lights, garlands, and maybe a mistletoe or two. A festive dress code, like Christmas jumpers or Santa hats, adds to the fun.

Consider offering mulled wine, mince pies, or other festive treats to keep everyone in high spirits.

6. Decide on Prizes

People love a bit of competition, especially when there’s a prize involved. Keep it light-hearted with festive-themed prizes like:

A bottle of wine or bubbly

A hamper of Christmas goodies

Gift cards

A humorous trophy, like a "Christmas Quizmaster Crown"

Have a small consolation prize for the team in last place to keep it fun for everyone.

7. Be a Great Host

As the quizmaster, it’s your job to keep the energy high and the atmosphere lively. Inject some humour, don’t be afraid to banter with teams, and keep the quiz moving along at a good pace.

8. Add a Twist

Spice things up with a few unique twists:

Bonus Points: Offer extra points for best team name or best festive attire.

Speed Round: Include a rapid-fire round where teams shout out answers.

Secret Santa Round: Hide bonus prizes under chairs or have a random “lucky team” winner.

9. End on a High Note

Finish the evening with a heartfelt thank-you to everyone for participating. Announce the winners with a bit of fanfare, hand out the prizes, and maybe have a festive singalong to close the night.

10. Follow Up

If it’s a regular event, get feedback on what people enjoyed or what could improve. Sharing photos or funny moments from the quiz on social media can help keep the festive spirit alive and encourage attendance next year.

With a little planning and a lot of Christmas cheer, your quiz night is sure to be a hit. So, put on your Santa hat, brush up on your trivia, and get ready to host a fabulous Christmas quiz!