‘Winter Refills Allowance’ allows customers to pick up a refillable hot drink and a cake for just £4, available now in all Morrisons Cafés

Morrisons announces a ‘Winter Refills Allowance’ across all its Cafés nationwide to help customers stay warm throughout the colder months, including Christmas week.

Unlimited free refills will be available across all self-serve hot drinks from fruit teas or lattes and cappuccinos for coffee lovers needing an extra boost, to a creamy hot chocolate for those with a sweeter tooth.

Morrisons has a wide range of hot drinks available to warm the body and soul starting from £1.85.

Those looking to complement their hug-in-a-mug with a sweet treat can do so for just £4. Whether it’s a slice of classic Victoria Sponge or something fruitier like the Sicilian Lemon Muffin, there are plenty of options to satisfy any craving.

Morrisons Cafés offer great breakfast, lunch and dinner options without having to break the bank. For example, breakfast sandwiches and a hot drink cost just £4.25 and an adult sandwich meal deal is £6.50. Plus, kids eat free every day, seven days a week when customers purchase an adult meal costing £5 or over, available for any child aged under 16 in Morrisons Cafés nationwide.

Becky Wilson, Morrisons Café Buyer, said: “We are always looking for ways to give our customers more reasons to visit our Cafés – and the Winter Refills Allowance does just that. As well as the quality food at affordable prices, our Cafés are a space for communities to connect, work or relax, and they can now do so over a warm mug of their choosing.”

Morrisons unlimited free refills will be available all year round in its Cafés nationwide.

To find your local Morrisons Café, visit: https://my.mo
rrisons.com/storefinder

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The Works: Your One-Stop Shop for Christmas Gifts and Crafting

As the festive season approaches, the excitement of finding the perfect gifts and creating a cosy Christmas atmosphere starts to build. 

However, it can also be overwhelming trying to balance budgets while making sure everyone receives something thoughtful. If you're looking for a place that offers both affordable prices and variety, look no further than The Works. 

This hidden gem of a shop offers everything from books and puzzles to crafting supplies and stocking fillers—making it the perfect solution for all your Christmas needs.

Books for Everyone on Your List

Books are timeless gifts that suit all ages and interests, and The Works has an impressive range to choose from. 

Whether you're after the latest fiction for your bookworm friend, cookbooks for the family chef, or activity books for the little ones, The Works has got you covered. And the best part? Because The Works specialises in remaindered stock, you can often find popular titles at a fraction of the original price.

Their selection spans across genres—from gripping thrillers to heartfelt romances, fascinating non-fiction, and even classic literature. With something for every type of reader, you can put a smile on your loved ones' faces without breaking the bank.

Stocking Fillers and Gifts

Struggling to find affordable but exciting gifts for everyone in the family? The Works is also known for its wide range of quirky and fun stocking fillers. From puzzles and board games to stationery sets, novelty items, and even affordable tech gadgets, there's no shortage of creative gift ideas.

They offer a variety of gifts that can suit all ages. Whether you're shopping for children who love art and toys, teens who are into the latest trends, or adults who enjoy puzzles or creative activities, you'll find plenty of options. The shop’s affordable prices make it easy to fill those stockings without worrying about your budget.

Christmas Crafting Galore

Nothing brings the festive spirit to life like Christmas crafting, and The Works is a haven for crafters. 

Whether you’re creating your own decorations, making homemade gifts, or spending a cosy afternoon doing Christmas arts and crafts with the family, The Works has an extensive range of craft supplies.

From glitter and ribbons to felt, paints, and craft kits, there’s plenty to spark your creativity. They even offer pre-made DIY kits if you’re looking for an easy way to make personalised Christmas cards, tree decorations, or gifts. Plus, their range of festive-themed stickers, stamps, and wrapping essentials will have your presents looking extra special this year.

Get Ready for Festivities on a Budget

With The Works, you can take the stress out of Christmas shopping. Whether you're ticking off your gift list, searching for stocking fillers, or stocking up on crafting supplies for a festive family afternoon, this affordable retailer is your one-stop shop.

Pop into your local branch or explore their online store for even more deals. With so much variety and prices that are kind to your wallet, you'll be able to celebrate the festive season in style—without the Christmas shopping panic.

Make The Works your go-to destination this Christmas and experience the joy of finding everything you need, all in one place.

https://www.theworks.co.uk

Spoiler alert here: Although we aren't sponsored by The Works I have bought a wide range of craft items for Christmas from The Works! The above is an example of two Christmas globes that I made using items sourced from The Works.

A Magical Christmas Shopping Trip to London

As the festive season approaches, there’s no place quite like London to immerse yourself in the magic of Christmas shopping. 

The city transforms into a winter wonderland, with twinkling lights, charming window displays, and the scent of roasted chestnuts filling the air. 

Whether you're on the hunt for unique gifts, luxury treats, or simply want to soak in the festive atmosphere, a Christmas shopping trip to London is an unforgettable experience. 

Here’s how to make the most of your trip.

1. Start at Oxford Street

Oxford Street is London’s most famous shopping destination, and during Christmas, it’s a must-visit. The street is beautifully lit with festive decorations, creating a magical shopping environment. Home to iconic department stores such as Selfridges, John Lewis, and Debenhams, Oxford Street offers a wide range of high street brands and luxury items. Make sure to check out Selfridges’ Christmas window displays, which are always a highlight of the season.

Tip: If you're keen to avoid the crowds, aim to visit on a weekday morning or late afternoon, when it's slightly less busy.

2. Visit Covent Garden for a Festive Experience

Next on your itinerary should be a trip to Covent Garden. This area is renowned for its festive charm, with the famous Christmas tree, giant baubles, and sparkling lights decorating the piazza. You’ll find a mix of high-end shops and unique boutiques here, making it a great place to pick up something special.

While you’re there, take a break from shopping to enjoy some mulled wine and a mince pie at one of the charming cafes or markets in the area. You might even catch a live Christmas performance from one of the many street artists or carol singers that frequent the square.

3. Explore Carnaby Street for Unique Finds

Just a short walk from Oxford Circus is the trendy Carnaby Street. Known for its distinctive character, Carnaby is the perfect place to shop if you're looking for something a bit more unique. The street is home to independent boutiques, quirky brands, and cool concept stores. Carnaby also hosts its own Christmas lights, with each year’s design being just as creative and eye-catching as the last.

Don’t miss the smaller side streets and arcades nearby, like Kingly Court, which are filled with charming shops and cosy eateries, perfect for a little respite from the hustle and bustle.

4. Discover High-End Shopping in Bond Street and Regent Street

For a taste of luxury, head to Bond Street and Regent Street. These areas are home to some of the world’s most famous luxury brands, including Louis Vuitton, Burberry, Tiffany & Co., and Chanel. Even if you’re not planning to splurge, the beautifully decorated windows and grand architecture make for an elegant stroll.

Fortnum & Mason, located on Piccadilly, is also a must-visit if you’re after indulgent Christmas hampers, gourmet foods, or fine teas. This historic store has been a part of London’s Christmas traditions for centuries and is worth visiting just to soak in the grandeur and opulence.

5. Don’t Forget the Christmas Markets

No Christmas shopping trip to London is complete without a visit to one of its festive markets. The city boasts several, but some of the most popular include the Southbank Centre Winter Market and Christmas by the River at London Bridge. Here, you’ll find handmade gifts, artisanal crafts, and festive treats, perfect for those looking for one-of-a-kind presents.

Wander through the stalls, sip on hot chocolate, and soak in the festive atmosphere while admiring views of the Thames, the London Eye, and Tower Bridge.

6. Wrap Up Your Trip with Winter Wonderland

If you’re in the mood for a full-blown festive experience, head to Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. This Christmas extravaganza features a massive Christmas market, ice skating, funfair rides, and plenty of festive food stalls. It’s a great way to end your shopping trip and fully embrace the Christmas spirit.

Be sure to book in advance if you plan to ice skate or attend any of the special events, as they tend to sell out quickly.

Tips for a Stress-Free Shopping Trip

Plan ahead: London can be extremely busy during the Christmas season, so it’s a good idea to plan your route and make reservations where possible.

Go early or late: To avoid the busiest times, aim to shop in the morning or evening, when the crowds are lighter, and you can enjoy the lights at their best.

Stay hydrated and take breaks: Christmas shopping can be exhausting! Make sure to stop for a cup of tea or hot chocolate to refuel.

London truly comes alive at Christmas, offering a shopping experience that’s not just about ticking off items from your list but about embracing the joy and magic of the season. From luxury goods to unique handmade treasures, you’ll find something for everyone on your list, all while enjoying the twinkling lights and festive cheer. So grab your coat, bundle up in a scarf, and head to the capital for an unforgettable Christmas shopping trip!

Happy Festive shopping!

https://www.visitlondon.com/things-to-do/shopping/christmas-shopping-hotspots

The magic of attending Midnight Mass

There is something uniquely enchanting about attending Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. As the night deepens and a quiet stillness settles over the world, churches across the country open their doors to welcome the faithful. 

Stepping into a church at midnight for the Christmas celebration feels like stepping into a timeless tradition, one filled with reverence, reflection, and a sense of spiritual renewal.

Midnight Mass holds a special place in Christian customs, particularly in the Roman Catholic and Anglican traditions. It is the first liturgical celebration of Christmas, marking the arrival of Christ into the world. 

Attending this service, you are not only witnessing a religious ceremony but also immersing yourself in centuries-old traditions that are deeply rooted in faith, hope, and joy. There is something magical in the air that transcends the regular rhythm of life and touches on the divine.

A Sacred Pause in the Hustle of the Season

For many, Christmas is a time of endless to-do lists, bustling high streets, and preparations for family gatherings. It can be easy to get caught up in the materialism and pressure of creating a ‘perfect’ Christmas. Midnight Mass, however, offers a chance to step away from this frenzy. The service invites you to take a breath and refocus on the spiritual essence of the holiday.

The dimly lit church, often adorned with glowing candles and festive decorations, exudes a warmth that contrasts the cold outside. As you enter the church, the quiet hum of anticipation fills the air. There is an unspoken understanding among the congregation: this is a sacred moment, a collective pause where we are reminded of the greater meaning behind the holiday.

The Beauty of Tradition

One of the most magical aspects of Midnight Mass is the richness of tradition. The familiar carols, the readings from the Bible, and the sound of the church organ are a powerful reminder of the shared heritage of faith. For those who attend year after year, it is a moment of nostalgia, linking the past to the present. The readings about the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, the message of peace, and the choir’s rendition of "Silent Night" under candlelight resonate deeply.

These traditions are passed down through generations, creating a sense of continuity. You are part of something much bigger than yourself. Whether it’s your first Midnight Mass or your fiftieth, the feeling of being woven into a global fabric of believers is an experience like no other.

A Spiritual Awakening

There is a sense of renewal that comes with attending Midnight Mass. The world outside may be filled with noise and distractions, but within the walls of the church, a different atmosphere prevails—one of calm, reflection, and spiritual awakening. The focus shifts from the material to the spiritual, from worldly concerns to heavenly peace.

The quiet of the night heightens this sense of reverence. In the stillness of the church, under the dim light of flickering candles, you can feel a closeness to God. The message of hope and salvation rings clearer in this intimate setting, and many leave the service feeling a renewed sense of faith, hope, and purpose.

Community and Connection

Midnight Mass is also a beautiful moment of togetherness. There is something profound about gathering with others in the dead of night, all united in faith and celebration. It reminds us that Christmas is not just about individual experiences, but about community, connection, and sharing in the joy of Christ’s birth.

In a world that can often feel fragmented, Midnight Mass brings people together, regardless of background, age, or circumstance. The act of coming together as a community, singing carols, exchanging peace, and offering prayers, strengthens bonds and creates a deep sense of belonging.

Conclusion: A Night Like No Other

The magic of Midnight Mass lies not only in its traditions or the beauty of its liturgy but in the way it touches the soul. It allows us to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with what truly matters. In the quiet of the night, in the glow of candlelight, we are reminded of the hope and peace that the Christmas season brings.

Attending Midnight Mass is more than just attending a religious service; it’s about participating in a moment of transcendence—a moment that carries the mystery and joy of Christmas into the depths of our hearts.

Exploring Boutique Christmas Markets Across Britain and Ireland

As the festive season draws near, Christmas markets light up the towns and cities of Britain and Ireland, filling the air with the scent of mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and freshly baked mince pies. 

While many flock to the grand and bustling markets of London, Edinburgh, and Dublin, there’s something uniquely charming about exploring the smaller, more boutique Christmas markets. 

These markets offer an intimate, cosy experience, with artisan gifts, handcrafted wares, and local flavours that capture the magic of the season in a truly special way. Here are a few lesser-known gems worth visiting this Christmas.

1. Bath Artisan Market, England

Set in the stunning Georgian city of Bath, this quaint market has a focus on local craftsmanship. Located in Queen Square, Bath Artisan Market features stalls brimming with handmade jewellery, bespoke ceramics, and beautiful textiles. It’s the perfect spot to pick up unique gifts that support local artisans, with each piece carrying its own story. Beyond shopping, you can enjoy live music performances and warming winter treats as you wander through this picturesque market. Bath’s backdrop of historical architecture adds a touch of grandeur to the cosy market atmosphere.

https://visitbath.co.uk/shopping/markets

2. Swansea Christmas Street Market, Wales

While Cardiff’s Christmas market draws crowds from far and wide, Swansea offers a more intimate alternative with its Christmas Street Market. Located in the heart of the city, this market is known for its Welsh charm, showcasing a range of artisan products, from hand-poured candles to locally made cheeses. With traditional Welsh fare like cawl (a hearty soup) and bara brith (a fruit loaf) on offer, it’s a wonderful place to embrace the local culture while ticking off your Christmas shopping list. The market is smaller but full of festive cheer, making it a hidden gem in Wales.

https://www.visitwales.com/inspire-me/days-out/christmas-shopping-and-christmas-markets-wales

3. Belfast Christmas Market at St George’s, Northern Ireland

While Belfast’s City Hall Christmas market is one of the more popular destinations, St George’s Market offers a boutique alternative with a more relaxed vibe. Situated in one of Belfast’s oldest markets, St George’s transforms during the festive season into a haven of local food, handmade gifts, and artisan crafts. You’ll find everything from gourmet chocolate to locally brewed craft beers, perfect for the foodies in your life. St George’s has a distinctively local feel, giving you a chance to meet the makers and hear the stories behind their creations.

https://www.belfastcity.gov.uk

4. Oxford Christmas Market, England

Nestled in the historic heart of Oxford on Broad Street, this small but enchanting market is perfect for a winter’s day out. With around 60 wooden chalets, it’s an intimate affair, yet the selection of gifts, food, and drink is impressive. Many of the stalls feature items from local businesses, from handmade ornaments to artisan soaps. The smell of mulled wine and cinnamon rolls fills the air, and you can enjoy festive carols sung by local choirs as you browse. The market’s setting, surrounded by Oxford’s ancient university buildings, adds a magical, almost storybook quality to the experience.

https://www.oxfordchristmasmarket.co.uk

5. Galway Christmas Market, Ireland

Galway may be famed for its cultural festivals, but during December, its Christmas market brings a boutique festive experience to the west coast of Ireland. Set in Eyre Square, the market combines traditional German-style stalls with Irish artisans selling unique, handcrafted goods. It’s the perfect place to find beautiful Irish knitwear, intricate jewellery, and one-of-a-kind gifts. Galway’s bohemian vibe extends to the Christmas market, making it feel more like a community celebration than a tourist hotspot. From sampling local craft beers to indulging in fresh Irish seafood, Galway’s market offers a festive experience with a local twist.

https://www.christmasmarketgalway.com

6. Yorkshire’s Haworth Christmas Market, England

Haworth, the quaint village famously associated with the Brontë sisters, hosts a boutique Christmas market that’s as charming as the village itself. Set on the cobbled Main Street, the market is small but brimming with character. From vintage treasures to handmade crafts, you’ll find thoughtful and unique gifts for your loved ones. The entire village takes on a Dickensian feel during the festive season, with shopkeepers in Victorian dress and brass bands playing carols. For those seeking a Christmas market with literary and historical charm, Haworth is the perfect destination.

https://www.christmasinhaworth.com

7. Kelso Christmas Market, Scotland

In the picturesque Borders town of Kelso, the Christmas market is a local affair where community spirit shines through. The market is held in the town square, with a collection of stalls selling handmade crafts, artisanal foods, and bespoke gifts from local vendors. Kelso’s Christmas market is the epitome of boutique charm, offering high-quality, unique items in a tranquil setting. Surrounded by the stunning Scottish Borders countryside, it’s the ideal place for a festive day out away from the hustle and bustle of the larger cities.

https://www.visitkelso.com/event/visit-kelso-christmas-market

Whether you’re seeking artisan gifts, local delicacies, or simply a bit of festive magic away from the crowds, these boutique Christmas markets across Britain and Ireland offer a more intimate, authentic experience. Each one is a celebration of local culture, craftsmanship, and community, ensuring that your Christmas shopping is not only enjoyable but meaningful as well. So, grab a mulled wine, wrap up warm, and immerse yourself in the festive spirit at one of these hidden gems this winter.

You can check your local news magazines, Facebook groups council websites, to see if there are any other local Chirstmas markets in your area.

This Christmas remember that churches are good for health and good for the NHS

The UK’s churches provide vital health-related support services that would cost billions of pounds a year to deliver, ‘The House of Good: Health’, new research from the National Churches Trust shows.

From youth groups to food banks, from drug and alcohol addiction support to mental health counselling, churches directly provide or host a growing list of vital health related services for people in urgent need. Especially noticeable at Christmas time.

In the process, churches relieve huge cost pressures on the National Health Service, worth an amazing £8.4 billion annually. That’s the equivalent to the cost of employing 230,000 nurses.

The £8.4 billion is how much it would cost the NHS to ‘produce’ the same level of health improvements provided by churches, equivalent to around 4% of total UK public health spending.

But this health dividend is at risk as an increasing number of churches are at risk of closure.

The report is set to launch in the House of Commons at an event sponsored by Ruth Jones MP on Tuesday 15 October 2024.

Welcoming the report, The Rt Revd and Rt Hon Dame Sarah Mullally DBE, Bishop of London, said: “Churches and other faith groups play an extremely important role in the health and wellbeing of their communities, and in our collective health. “

“There is a church in every community, including the most deprived, and many have been serving their communities for generations. It is encouraging to see the value of their provision being recognised in this report, with inspiring case studies.”

“The report helps to highlight the importance of faith group partnership, which will be vital in reducing health inequalities. Church buildings are important and rich assets in the delivery of this work, which we must look after, and for which we give thanks.“

Will Watt, Allan Little and Jasmine Kazantzis from value and social impact consultancy, State of Life, co-authors of the report produced for the National Churches Trust, explain the economics behind their findings.

“ Our approach involved using Quality Adjusted Life Years (QALYs), a value for money metric used by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) to determine the healthcare value of four support services provided in church buildings: youth groups, food banks, drug and alcohol addiction support and mental health counselling.”

“We also incorporated the positive health benefits experienced by volunteers, who not only contribute their time to support these services, but also improve their own wellbeing in the process.”

“Whilst the £8.4 billion in cost relief is not directly visible to NHS commissioners, the range of healthcare support and services provided in church buildings will in practice reduce what is already and excess demand for health services.”

“It's vital to stress, that this is a conservative valuation. In reality, churches provide a much wider range of support, from warm spaces and lunch clubs to activities that alleviate loneliness, and a host of musical and cultural activities. All of these can be expected to contribute to health and wellbeing , and thus further relieve costs.”

“Our research shows that church buildings provide significant cost relief, underscoring their vital role in care and wellbeing.”

Said Claire Walker, CEO of the National Churches Trust: “The UK’s 38,500 churches promote the positive mental and physical health that helps people thrive. They provide locations for health treatments.

"They prevent conditions that would otherwise send more patients through GP or hospital doors. They’re our National Help Service. Our new research, ‘The House of Good: Health’ shows for the ­ first time that the value of the health-related support services provided in church buildings is at least £8.4 billion a year.”

“These ­findings and ­figures are truly remarkable. But they’re also alarming. Because the UK’s church buildings are dangerously underfunded, with many in the most deprived areas falling into disrepair and facing closure. Around 3,500 have closed in recent years.”

“Without urgent support, we risk losing this shock absorber for the NHS, and a vital safety net for the most vulnerable people in our society.”

“Churches were providing health services long before the introduction of the NHS and continue to do so today. As healthcare costs rise, their role in preventative care becomes increasingly important. This is also true for buildings used by other faiths.”

“By investing in church buildings and integrating churches into local health service provision through initiatives including social prescribing, we can alleviate pressures on healthcare budgets while delivering immense value to individuals and communities across the UK.”

nationalchurchestrust.org