Planting Trees as a Christmas Gift: A Sustainable Gesture of Love

As the festive season rapidly approaches, many of us are searching for meaningful gifts that go beyond the ordinary. 

This year, why not embrace the spirit of giving by planting trees as a Christmas gift? Not only is it a thoughtful way to show you care, but it’s also a powerful act of kindness towards our planet. 

Whether you plant a tree yourself or support a tree-planting initiative, this sustainable gesture is a gift that keeps on giving.

Why Plant Trees as a Gift?

Environmental Benefits

Trees are vital for the planet. They purify the air, provide habitats for wildlife, reduce the effects of climate change, and improve soil health. By planting a tree, you’re giving a gift that will benefit generations to come.

A Symbol of Growth and Longevity

Trees symbolise life, resilience, and growth. Unlike disposable presents, a tree grows stronger over time, becoming a lasting reminder of the love and care shared during the festive season.

A Unique and Personal Gift

In a world full of material gifts, planting a tree stands out. It’s a personalised gesture that aligns with the growing desire for sustainable and ethical giving.

How to Plant Trees as Gifts

1. Plant a Tree in Person

If you have access to outdoor space, consider planting a tree yourself. Here’s how:

Choose the right tree: Select a species suited to the local climate and soil conditions. Native species are often the best choice as they support local wildlife.

Pick the location carefully: Ensure the tree has enough room to grow and won’t interfere with buildings or utilities.

Add a personal touch: Place a small plaque or marker near the tree with a heartfelt message to commemorate the occasion.

2. Give a Tree Planting Kit

For those with gardens or a passion for gardening, a tree planting kit makes a wonderful gift. These kits often include saplings, soil enhancers, and instructions, making it easy to plant and nurture a tree.

3. Support Tree Planting Organisations

If planting a tree yourself isn’t an option, donate to a reputable tree-planting organisation in someone’s name. Many organisations offer certificates or personalised messages, so your recipient will know a tree has been planted on their behalf.

Popular options include:

The Woodland Trust (UK)

Eden Reforestation Projects

Trees for Life (Scotland)

Creative Ways to Present Your Tree Gift

Certificates: Print or frame a certificate detailing the tree species and location.

Story Cards: Share information about the environmental benefits of the tree and why you chose this gift.

Tree-Themed Gifts: Pair your tree gift with a related item, such as a handmade ornament, a journal for recording its growth, or a book about forests.

Benefits Beyond the Gift

When you give the gift of trees, you’re not just creating a meaningful present—you’re contributing to a healthier planet. Trees help combat climate change, improve biodiversity, and foster a deeper connection to nature.

This Christmas, consider stepping away from the usual presents and gifting something truly impactful. Planting trees as a Christmas gift is a beautiful way to celebrate the season of giving while honouring your loved ones and the Earth. It’s a gift of hope, renewal, and a greener future for all.

Create Your Own Advent Calendar: A Festive DIY Guide

The countdown to Christmas is one of the most magical parts of the holiday season, and an advent calendar adds to the excitement by offering daily surprises in the run-up to the big day. 

While shop-bought versions are convenient, creating your own advent calendar allows you to tailor it to your family’s tastes, style, and traditions. 

Plus, it’s a fun and rewarding project that adds a personal touch to your holiday celebrations. Here’s how you can craft your own unique advent calendar.

Step 1: Decide on the Style

There are countless ways to create an advent calendar. Choose one that suits your space and crafting skills:

Hanging Calendar: Small fabric or paper pouches hung on a string.

Box Calendar: Individual boxes stacked or arranged in a festive shape. (That's what I'm doing this year!)

Wall Display: Envelopes, mini stockings, or felt pockets attached to a board or frame.

DIY Drawers: Upcycle an old drawer set or purchase a wooden advent calendar with compartments to customise.

Step 2: Gather Supplies

Depending on your chosen style, you’ll need different materials. Here are some general supplies:

Paper or fabric for making containers (pouches, envelopes, etc.).

Decorations such as stickers, stamps, ribbon, and festive embellishments.

Numbers (stickers, stamps, or handwritten).

A base structure like string, a board, or a box frame.

Small gifts, treats, or notes to fill each day.

Step 3: Choose the Fillings

The beauty of a DIY advent calendar lies in personalising the surprises. Think about the recipient and pick a mix of fun, thoughtful, and festive items:

For kids: Small toys, chocolate, activity cards, or stickers.

For adults: Mini toiletries, tea bags, candles, or indulgent snacks.

Family fun: Christmas trivia questions, craft supplies, or vouchers for activities like a movie night or baking session.

Step 4: Assemble Your Calendar

Create the containers: Whether you’re folding envelopes, sewing pouches, or decorating small boxes, ensure they’re sturdy enough to hold the surprises.

Number them: Add numbers 1 to 24 (or 25) to each container.

Fill them: Place a surprise in each container, keeping in mind the order if some days have specific themes or activities.

Arrange your calendar: Attach the containers to your base (hang them, stack them, or arrange them however you like).

Step 5: Add Finishing Touches

Once assembled, take a step back and look for ways to make your advent calendar even more festive. Add fairy lights, greenery, or a dusting of glitter for that Christmas magic.

Tips for Success

Plan ahead: Start early to allow time for sourcing materials and crafting.

Budget wisely: DIY doesn’t have to be expensive; use items you already have or check charity shops for supplies.

Get creative: Think beyond sweets and include meaningful notes or family activities to make each day special.

A homemade advent calendar is more than just a holiday countdown; it’s a reflection of your creativity and a gesture of love that will be remembered for years to come. Whether you’re making it for yourself, your children, or a friend, this project will bring joy to the festive season. Happy crafting!

Making Christmas Easier: A Guide to a Stress-Free Festive Season

The Christmas season is a time for joy, togetherness, and creating memories. However, for many, it can also bring stress and overwhelm as we juggle shopping, cooking, decorating, and hosting. 

But what if this year, Christmas could be easier? Here’s a guide to simplifying your festive season without sacrificing its magic.

1. Plan Ahead

Organisation is key to a stress-free Christmas. Start by creating a checklist of everything you need to do: shopping, meal planning, decorating, and scheduling events. Use a calendar to spread tasks out over the weeks leading up to Christmas Day.

Top Tip: For gift shopping, consider online ordering to save time and avoid crowded shops. Many retailers offer pre-wrapped gifts or customisable options, making your life even easier.

2. Simplify Decorations

Rather than going all out with decorations, focus on a few statement pieces that capture the festive spirit. A beautifully decorated tree, a welcoming wreath on the door, and some fairy lights can create a cosy, festive atmosphere without the hassle of decorating every inch of your home.

Top Tip: Invest in reusable decorations to save time and money year after year.

3. Delegate Tasks

Christmas shouldn’t rest solely on your shoulders. Involve family members in preparations. Assign tasks like wrapping presents, decorating the tree, or preparing side dishes. Not only does this lighten your workload, but it also makes everyone feel included.

Top Tip: For big family gatherings, consider a potluck-style meal where everyone contributes a dish.

4. Streamline Gift-Giving

Gift-giving is a beautiful tradition, but it doesn’t have to be a source of stress. Simplify by opting for thoughtful, practical gifts or even experiences like theatre tickets or a subscription box. Secret Santa is another great way to reduce the number of gifts while keeping the spirit alive.

Top Tip: Homemade gifts, like baked goods or personalised ornaments, add a touch of warmth without breaking the bank.

5. Prep Ahead in the Kitchen

Cooking a Christmas feast can be daunting, but preparation is your best friend. Many festive dishes can be prepared in advance, from cranberry sauce to desserts. Even the main event – the turkey – can be seasoned and ready to go the night before.

Top Tip: Consider a buffet-style meal instead of a formal sit-down dinner. It’s less pressure for the host and allows everyone to serve themselves.

6. Focus on What Matters

Remember, the true magic of Christmas lies in spending time with loved ones. It’s easy to get caught up in the commercial aspects of the season, but taking time to relax, laugh, and make memories is what you’ll cherish most.

Top Tip: Set aside some downtime on Christmas Day – whether it’s a family walk, a board game marathon, or simply curling up by the fire with a festive film.

7. Keep Traditions Manageable

Traditions are a lovely way to celebrate, but they can become overwhelming if you try to do them all. Focus on the traditions that mean the most to your family and let go of those that feel more like a chore.

Top Tip: Create new, simpler traditions, like a Christmas Eve hot chocolate bar or a family storytelling session.

8. Don’t Strive for Perfection

Lastly, remember that Christmas doesn’t have to be picture-perfect. The burnt batch of mince pies, the mismatched wrapping paper, or the slightly crooked tree – these imperfections are often what make Christmas special and memorable.

This year, give yourself the gift of a calmer, simpler Christmas. By planning ahead, sharing responsibilities, and focusing on what truly matters, you’ll create a festive season filled with joy and peace.

Merry Christmas!

If you’d like more tips for a stress-free holiday or have your own tricks to share, let us know in the comments below!

What to Do If You Aren’t Feeling the Christmas Spirit

The festive season is upon us, but for some, the magic of Christmas can feel elusive. While others are decking the halls and singing carols, you might be feeling out of sync. 

If this sounds familiar, don’t worry—you're not alone. Here are some thoughtful and practical steps to help you rediscover, or redefine, your Christmas spirit.

1. Reflect on What Christmas Means to You

Christmas doesn’t have to look like a Hallmark film. Take a moment to think about what the season truly means to you. Is it about family, kindness, or simply a chance to rest? Focusing on your own values can help you create a more personal and meaningful celebration.

2. Simplify Your Expectations

The pressure to have the ‘perfect Christmas’ can be overwhelming. Let go of unrealistic expectations and focus on what brings you comfort and joy. Whether it’s a cosy evening with a good book or a quiet walk in nature, allow yourself to celebrate in a way that feels right for you.

3. Reconnect with Loved Ones

Sometimes, feeling disconnected can dampen our festive spirit. Reaching out to family or friends—even for a brief chat—can help. If you’re feeling particularly low, let someone you trust know. Sharing your thoughts might lighten the load.

4. Give to Others

The act of giving doesn’t have to be grand. Volunteer your time, donate to a cause, or even help a neighbour with their shopping. Acts of kindness can reignite a sense of connection and purpose during the festive season.

5. Create New Traditions

If the old traditions feel stale or unappealing, why not create your own? You could host a festive film night, bake something new, or start a gratitude journal for the season. Traditions are what you make of them, and fresh ones can bring new joy.

6. Focus on Self-Care

Christmas can be stressful, and sometimes the best way to find the spirit is to take care of yourself first. Prioritise sleep, eat nourishing food, and carve out time for activities that relax and energise you. A rested mind and body are more likely to embrace the season.

7. Embrace the Small Moments

Christmas isn’t just about grand gestures; it’s in the simple pleasures. A warm drink by the fire, fairy lights twinkling in the dark, or the smell of pine in the air—small moments can often carry the most magic if we take the time to notice them.

8. Consider Professional Support

If you’ve tried everything and still feel down, it’s okay to seek help. The festive season can amplify feelings of loneliness or anxiety, and speaking to a professional can provide valuable support and coping strategies.

Remember: It’s Okay to Feel This Way

Not everyone feels merry and bright during the holidays, and that’s perfectly okay. Be gentle with yourself and take the season one day at a time. Christmas is about more than tinsel and presents—it’s about love, connection, and finding joy in your own way.

Whether your Christmas spirit returns in full or you carve out a quieter path this year, know that your experience is valid, and there’s no ‘right’ way to celebrate.

The Rising Cost of the Average British Christmas Dinner: A Festive Budget Dilemma

As the festive season approaches, families across the UK are preparing for one of the year's most cherished traditions: the Christmas dinner. 

However, this year, the rising cost of the classic feast is giving many pause. With the cost of living continuing to bite, households are left balancing tradition with tight budgets.

The Components of a Christmas Feast

A traditional British Christmas dinner usually consists of roast turkey, stuffing, pigs in blankets, roast potatoes, Brussels sprouts, parsnips, cranberry sauce, and, of course, a Christmas pudding to round things off. Added to this are festive drinks, crackers, and the occasional mince pie. But these staples of seasonal joy have seen sharp price increases in recent years.

Why Are Prices Rising?

Inflation and Supply Chain Issues

Inflation has had a significant impact on food prices across the board. Recent figures show that the price of staples like potatoes, carrots, and even frozen turkeys has increased considerably due to higher production and transportation costs.

Labour Shortages

Labour shortages in the agricultural and food production sectors have caused delays and increased wages, further driving up costs. This has affected everything from poultry farming to vegetable harvesting.

Energy Costs

Rising energy bills have also played a role. Farmers and manufacturers face higher costs for refrigeration, machinery, and fuel, which are inevitably passed on to consumers.

Seasonal Demand

The festive season traditionally sees a spike in demand for Christmas dinner essentials, which can lead to price surges, especially for items like turkeys and luxury treats.

The Cost in 2024

In 2024, the average cost of a Christmas dinner for six is estimated to be nearly £40, up from £28 just a few years ago. Here’s how some key components have changed:

Turkey: Up by 12% compared to last year.

Pigs in Blankets: A 15% increase due to higher pork prices.

Vegetables: A mixed bag, with Brussels sprouts up by 10%, while some root vegetables remain stable.

Christmas Pudding: Luxury versions have seen a 20% surge.

Tips for Managing Costs

For those looking to enjoy a festive meal without breaking the bank, here are some tips:

Shop Early: Prices often rise closer to Christmas, so buying non-perishables in advance can save money.

Consider Alternatives: Opting for chicken instead of turkey or homemade pigs in blankets can reduce costs.

Embrace Leftovers: A well-planned Christmas dinner can double as meals for the following days.

Support Local Producers: Local markets can offer better deals, especially for fresh produce.

Limit Luxuries: Focus on family favourites and skip expensive extras if they’re not essential to your celebration.

A Festive Balancing Act

The rising cost of Christmas dinner reflects the broader challenges faced by households across the UK. Yet, the spirit of Christmas lies not in the expense, but in the togetherness and joy it brings. By planning carefully and embracing creativity, families can still enjoy a magical meal without the financial strain.

This festive season, let’s raise a glass (or a cup of tea) to finding comfort in the little things and making the most of what we have.

How are you planning to keep costs down this Christmas? Share your tips and ideas below!

Christmas on Mars

This is a fictional account of what the first celebration of Christmas on Mars might be like. 

In the crimson dawn of Mars’s fourth Christmas since the arrival of the human settlers, the dome of Elonia Colony shimmered with the light of solar reflectors. 

Beneath the transparent canopy, the settlers bustled about in a blend of holiday preparation and daily survival tasks, a true testament to their resilience and their desire to preserve traditions, even millions of kilometres from Earth.

The settlement was a mosaic of habitats, laboratories, and communal spaces, interconnected by pressurised walkways. 

At the heart of it all was the Unity Atrium, the colony’s central hub. This year, it would host the first-ever Mars Christmas Festival. 

A makeshift tree, basically a skeletal framework of printed metal adorned with LED strands and improvised ornaments crafted from Martian regolith—stood proudly at the centre.

Preparations had begun several weeks earlier, spearheaded by Dr. Aisha Malik, the colony’s botanist. Though natural greenery was sparse, she had cultivated a small crop of Earth-origin pine saplings in the colony’s greenhouse. 

One sapling, lovingly nurtured, stood as a living symbol of perseverance. While too fragile to be the festival’s centrepiece, it was placed in a protective glass case nearby, a beacon of hope.

For Commander Nathan Reyes, Christmas was an opportunity to reinforce unity. “Mars challenges us every day,” he had said during the planning meeting, “but we’re here because of humanity’s determination to thrive. This festival isn’t just about Christmas; it’s about celebrating life, together.”

The day began with a communal breakfast in the Atrium. The aroma of Martian-grown potato hash and lab-cultured sausages wafted through the air, complemented by a special treat: powdered eggnog, carefully rationed from Earth supplies. The settlers gathered at long tables, sharing stories of Christmases past and their dreams for the future of the colony.

Later, the colony’s children performed a play they had written themselves, titled Santa’s Martian Adventure. In it, Santa faced the challenge of delivering presents to a colony without chimneys. The solution, of course, was a sleigh powered by solar sails and a rover guided by a team of robotic “reindeer.” Laughter echoed as the children, dressed in cobbled-together costumes, brought their imaginative tale to life.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the Martian sky in shades of pink and orange, the settlers gathered for the lighting of the Christmas tree. Commander Reyes gave a short speech, reflecting on their shared journey. “We’ve turned a barren world into a home,” he said. “And tonight, as we light this tree, let it remind us of the light we bring to Mars and to each other.”

The tree’s LED lights flickered on, casting a warm glow that contrasted beautifully with the icy landscape beyond the dome. Carol singing followed, led by Dr. Malik, whose rich alto voice carried a timeless melody. The colonists joined in, their voices melding into one as they sang classics like Silent Night and O Come, All Ye Faithful. The sound travelled through the Atrium, uniting the settlers in a shared moment of peace.

The festivities concluded with a special treat: packets of chocolate, a rare commodity carefully preserved for the occasion. Families and friends gathered in small groups, savouring the sweetness while gazing out at the stars. Earth was visible in the distance, a tiny blue dot reminding them of where they had come from and what they hoped to achieve.

As the night deepened, the settlers retired to their habitats, carrying with them the warmth of the celebration. On Mars, Christmas was more than a holiday; it was a testament to human spirit, a reminder that even on a distant world, traditions could thrive, and joy could flourish.

Exploring the Unique Christmas Traditions of Switzerland

This is another in our series about Christmas celebrations in different parts of the world

Switzerland, a picturesque alpine country in the heart of Europe, boasts a delightful array of Christmas traditions that blend its rich cultural heritage with seasonal cheer. 

Each region brings its own unique flavour to the festivities, reflecting the country’s diversity of languages, customs, and landscapes. 

From snow-covered chalets to bustling Christmas markets, here’s an exploration of how Switzerland celebrates this magical time of year.

Advent and Christmas Markets

The countdown to Christmas begins with Advent, a cherished time marked by the lighting of candles on Advent wreaths and the opening of Advent calendars. Swiss families often make their own wreaths, decorating them wih ribbons, berries, and candles.

Christmas markets are a highlight of the season, transforming town squares into festive wonderlands. These markets, known as Weihnachtsmärkte in German-speaking areas and marchés de Noël in French-speaking regions, offer a feast for the senses. Visitors can enjoy mulled wine (Glühwein), roasted chestnuts, and traditional Swiss delicacies like raclette and gingerbread. Popular markets include those in Zurich, Basel, and Montreux, each with its unique charm.

Samichlaus and Schmutzli

On 6th December, Swiss children eagerly await the arrival of Samichlaus (Saint Nicholas) and his companion Schmutzli. Unlike the red-suited Santa Claus of the English-speaking world, Samichlaus wears a bishop’s robe and carries a book listing children’s good and naughty deeds. Schmutzli, dressed in a brown robe, adds a touch of mystery to the tradition. Together, they visit homes, schools, and public events, rewarding good behaviour with nuts, mandarins, and chocolates while gently encouraging improvement where needed.

Candlelit Charm: The Swiss Christmas Tree

This is another in our series about Christmas celebrations in different parts of the world. 

The Christmas tree holds a central place in Swiss celebrations. Many families decorate their trees on Christmas Eve, using candles instead of electric lights for a traditional and atmospheric glow. Glass ornaments, handmade decorations, and edible treats like biscuits and chocolates adorn the tree, creating a cosy and enchanting ambience.

Christmas Eve and Day

In Switzerland, the main celebration takes place on Christmas Eve. Families gather for a festive meal, often featuring Swiss specialities such as fondue or roasted meats. Desserts like Bûche de Noël (Yule log) or Mailänderli (buttery biscuits) are a sweet finale to the evening.

After dinner, families exchange gifts around the tree. In some households, presents are said to be delivered by the Christkind (Christ Child) rather than Santa Claus. Midnight Mass is a cherished tradition for many, providing a spiritual dimension to the celebrations.

Unique Regional Customs

Switzerland’s linguistic and cultural diversity ensures a variety of regional Christmas traditions:

In German-speaking areas, the Klausjagen (chasing of Saint Nicholas) is a spectacular procession held in Küssnacht, where participants carry illuminated lanterns and ring cowbells to ward off evil spirits.

In French-speaking regions, the réveillon (Christmas Eve feast) often includes oysters and foie gras, alongside local wines.

In Italian-speaking Ticino, Christmas is a deeply religious occasion, with nativity scenes and processions playing a prominent role.

Winter Magic and Alpine Spirit

The snowy Swiss landscape enhances the festive atmosphere, with opportunities for skiing, sledging, and cosy evenings by the fire. Villages like Zermatt and St. Moritz are renowned for their idyllic winter settings, attracting visitors from around the globe.

A Season of Giving

Swiss Christmas is also a time for giving back. Many communities organise charity events and collections for those in need, reflecting the season’s spirit of kindness and generosity.

Christmas in Switzerland is a captivating blend of tradition, community, and natural beauty. Whether it’s strolling through a twinkling market, savouring a hearty fondue, or marvelling at the glow of candlelit trees, the Swiss approach to the festive season is both heartwarming and unforgettable. 

As the snow falls gently on the Alps, Switzerland truly becomes a winter wonderland, making Christmas an enchanting experience for all.

Over £24k raised in Lisburn for drug education charity

Posed by models

In November the Larchfield Estate in Lisburn hosted their annual Christmas in the Barn, and this year it raised £23,938.28 for drug education charity the Daniel Spargo-Mabbs (DSM) Foundation.

This will enable the charity to fund a new production of their powerful commissioned verbatim play, ‘I Love You, Mum – I Promise I Won’t Die’ by Mark Wheeller, which will tour schools across Northern Ireland for two weeks in Spring 2025. The incredibly positive response of schools to the offer of performances for pupils has seen the tour rapidly booked out, with additional days needing to be added to meet demand.

All of this is being promoted and supported by Sandra Larmour from County Armagh, who was delighted to receive a cheque on behalf of the DSM Foundation from the Christmas in the Barn team, Lucinda Kinnaird and Sarah Mackie. Sandra’s daughter Jeni sadly died when she was 18 on her first day at Newcastle University having taken ketamine. 

Sandra has been working closely with Fiona Spargo-Mabbs, Director and Founder of the DSM Foundation and Dan’s mum, as fellow bereaved mums both determined to prevent the harm that happened to their own children happening to anyone else’s.

‘I Love You, Mum – I Promise I Won’t Die’ is a verbatim play that tells the true story of the joyful life and tragic death from MDMA of sixteen-year-old Dan Spargo-Mabbs, whose loss left his parents with a passionate commitment to prevent any harm happening to anyone else’s child, and led them to start a drug education charity in his name. Ten years on they are now well established across England, growing rapidly and successfully across Scotland, but not yet working in Northern Ireland.

The DSM Foundation has commissioned Ballymena and Coleraine-based educational theatre company, Ever Unique Productions, to create a new production for Northern Ireland schools, based on the highly successful production their two youth theatres performed in 2023. The play had such a profound impact on their young cast members, as well as their audiences, that Ever Unique Productions co-founders and co-directors Hannah Reilly and Martina McAfee, were keen to bring it to more young people in Northern Ireland.

Donations to cover the remaining costs of the tour can be made here https://fundraising.dsmfoundation.org.uk/fundraising/northern-ireland-drug-education

Sandra Larmour, mum to Jeni Larmour, said: 'Whilst I will never condone drug use, I fully support and endorse this important work that Fiona and her team are doing in educating and supporting school children giving them insight and knowledge that can only be of benefit to them in making future choices'.

Sarah Mackie, co-owner of the Larchfield Estate, said: "As parents we feel the need to equip our children with the knowledge to make informed decisions in the life choices they will make as they grow up. When I came across Fiona’s book ‘I Wish I'd Known', the tragedy of Dans death resonated and we hope that the funds raised by the 2024 Larchfield Christmas Fair will both raise awareness of the sadly essential need for drugs education in schools in Northern Ireland, and springboard funding to be able to deliver this to help protect children across the region."

Martina McAfee, Ever Unique Productions co-founder and co-director said: “Getting to perform the Irish premier of the play was something our young people welcomed with open arms. They truly became invested in telling Dan’s story. Additionally, all the drug education workshops we did around the play inspired them to be more open and honest with their peers and parents about the topic of drugs.

We knew as soon as our project was over that we weren’t ready to finish shouting about Dan. He had found a place to live in our hearts and he wasn’t going to be leaving anytime soon. We knew this story was not just one that needed to be heard by our young people but indeed, all young people across Northern Ireland.”

Fiona Spargo-Mabbs OBE, DSM Foundation Director, Founder and Dan’s mum said: “We’re delighted that Larchfield’s event has raised such a fantastic sum, which will cover much of the costs of bringing this new production of our play to schools across Northern Ireland. We’re also bowled over by the incredibly positive response from schools - the tour has booked up more rapidly than we’ve ever experienced with any of our previous tours elsewhere. 

"This is a great encouragement as we explore the potential for our wider drug education programme to equip young people in Northern Ireland to manage decisions about drugs and alcohol more safely. In all of this, Sandra and I remain united and committed to do what we can, as two bereaved mums, to keep other young people safe from harm.”

Sandford Orchards' Vintage Cider, The General, Adds More Awards to the Trophy Cabinet

The General, a world class vintage cider produced by independent, family-owned Sandford Orchards has just added another award to its trophy cabinet. It was named Champion Cider by Taste of the West at their ceremony last month.

Barny Butterfield, Chief Cidermaker at Sandford Orchards comments: “We are delighted to have scooped another accolade for The General. At 8.4%, it is the Godfather of our vintage range, aged for a minimum of 6 months in our ancient oak vat.

It has already won gold at The World Cider Awards in 2021 plus a gold medal and the category trophy at the 2023 International Cider Challenge.

Now it has been named Champion Cider in the Taste of the West Awards, which span the cider heartlands of Devon, Somerset, Cornwall and Dorset.” 

The General - Mighty Vat-Aged Cider (ABV 8.4%, £37.50 for 12 x 500ml bottles from www.sandfordorchards.co.uk)

The General is big, bold and super rich. It is the Imperial Stout of Sandford Orchards' vintage range. At 8.4% ABV it's a little more than half the strength of wine, but with twice the body and flavour of many grape fermented paler imitations. It has fabulous marmalade tannins and a juicy apple pie aroma. It has a wonderful warmth on the finish, perfect for banishing the winter blues. It is a superb complement to gamey meats or a fully-laden Sunday roast.

Founded in 2002, independent, family-owned Sandford Orchards is based in Crediton, Mid Devon in the oldest working cider mill in the UK. The area has long been known as one of the most fertile parishes in all of Britain, both for its grazing and ability to grow apples. Crediton sits in the lee of the moors, so receives the right amount of rain and the right units of heat in summer.

Sandford Orchards takes a fresh, natural and low impact approach to producing cider. Combining tradition and innovation, Sandford Orchards produces an award-winning range of core session, traditional, fine and fruit ciders.

For further information on Sandford Orchards please visit www.sandfordorchards.co.uk, follow Sandford Orchards on X, Facebook and Instagram. 

We think this will be perfect for Christmas!

Just in time for Christmas. Introducing House of Decant: Your New Home of Drinks

Launching online today, 9th December 2024, House of Decant is the brand new digital drinks marketplace for knowledgable tastemakers, culinary globetrotters and curious drinkers. houseofdecant.com

Think: a private members club for your drinks cabinet, bringing the best wine and spirits direct to your home.

It's the brainchild of Creative Director and entrepreneur Christopher Seddon – Seddon previously found notoriety in the world of drinks as co-founder of The Rochambeau Club, the exclusive yet fictional member's club known for its drinkable rosé and covetable merch – House of Decant is set to become the  go-to place for drinks lovers who appreciate great design as much as great wine. 

With a firm commitment to supporting independent producers across the UK and beyond, House of Decant will give users insider access to hard-to-find bottles and off-the-beaten-track makers in the worlds of wine and spirits. 

Offering a place for discovery, advice and inspiration, House of Decant replaces technicality and grape name-drops for personality and accessibility.  

“A lot of alcohol businesses rely on their history, and exclusivity, to talk to their customers and drive price-points. House of Decant will never be some stuffy or overly sales-y platform. House of Decant is about fun, about making people feel welcome, and about educating and inspiring anyone who comes to the platform in search of the right bottle,” Chris Seddon, co-founder & Creative Director, House of Decant told That's Christmas.

It's the aim of  the platform to guide users through new bottles, new regions and new ideas, with the aim to educate and delight, through smart editorial, customers will check out knowing more than they did before they commenced browsing. 

House of Decant will reimagine the convenience of a traditional drinks delivery service into a premium digital concierge, offering same day and next day delivery options, pre-sale access to exclusive drops, and guidance via your own personal concierge through Whatsapp.

Launching with a prestigious lineup – you'll find celebrated brands including Glenfiddich, Macallan, Deanston, Commando G, Domaine Bruno Clavelier, Duncan Savage, Joseph Roty, Penfolds, Quintarelli Giuseppe, and Waris-Larmander, among many others.

The marketplace will feature exclusive products unavailable elsewhere, including Rei del Istmo Rum and House of Decant's own special Limited Whisky. 

In addition, customers will be able to look forward to an ever-evolving assortment of hard-to-find and limited-edition bottles, from small-batch whisky from Hokkaido to vibrant Grüner Veltliner from Austria.

House of Decant will unveil its digital marketplace in stages, as well as details of how House of Decant will show up through real-world activations and locations, from 2025 and beyond. But first…

House of Decant Pop-Up at Shreeji, 6 Chiltern Street is launching tomorrow, 10th December until Monday 18th December 2024.

Step into the House of Decant, a world of discovery and indulgence. Nestled in the heart of Chiltern Street, our intimate pop-up reimagines the traditional off-license as a debonair townhouse—charming, eclectic, and filled with stories waiting to be uncovered. 

This isn't merely a place to buy a bottle; it's an invitation to explore. From rare vintages to bold, boundary-pushing spirits, House of Decant curates a selection that celebrates the craft, mystery, and romance of fine drinks. 

Guests can enjoy signature cocktails and attend masterclasses (From the likes of Seventy One Gin and Casa Dragones). With daily cocktails such as the Classic Bloody Mary, Martinis (any way you like it), Hot Toddies, A Bloody Good Margarita, Champagne and many others, the House of Decant promises an experience.

Open daily from 10 AM – 6 PM (with selected evening events, so please watch out for them).

houseofdecant.com

@houseofdecant