"Please Look After This Bear" A Heartwarming Christmas Rescue Gives Margaretta the Gift of Freedom

Messages to share kindness and goodwill are prominent as the world gears up for the festive season. 

One extraordinary tale of hope shines brighter than ever. 

Meet Margaretta (Retta), an ex-circus bear who spent years confined in a tiny cage, serving as a sad spectacle for visitors at a resort in Armenia.

 But this Christmas, as Aladdin Pantos grant wishes across the UK, we are pleased to share that Retta's wish has also been granted. Retta's life has been transformed. 

Thanks to an extraordinary rescue mission by International Animal Rescue (IAR) and its Armenian partners FPWC (Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Assets), Retta now roams freely for the first time in her life, a living testament to the power of compassion and the spirit of giving.

Retta's heartbreaking journey began in captivity, where she suffered for many years of neglect and isolation. Her cage, no larger than a concrete closet, became her entire world; with no opportunity to explore, play, or feel the earth's warmth beneath her paws, Retta's life was a shadow of what it should have been.

This changed when Animal Rescue and Conservation charity International Animal Rescue (IAR) and FPWC launched a daring rescue to free Retta from her cage and transport her to safety. 

Working tirelessly with local authorities and the police; the team navigated logistical challenges and harsh conditions to ensure Retta could begin a new chapter of life.

Now, Retta resides in the quarantine quarters of International Animal Rescue and FPWC's bear sanctuary, where she can finally live as nature intended. Once her period in quarantine ends, just after Christmas, she will be able to step onto soil for the first time, sniff the crisp air, and enjoy the winter sunlight, a life she never even knew existed.

International Animal Rescue's President, Alan Knight OBE, reflects on the mission: "Rescuing Retta was a monumental effort, but seeing her rediscover her instincts and joy will be worth every second. Her resilience inspires us to keep fighting for animals like her, who desperately need a second chance at a life worth living."

The timing of Retta's rescue couldn't be more poignant. As the world celebrates the release of Paddington in Peru, Retta's story echoes the famous bear's plea: "Please look after this bear." This holiday season, Retta reminds us that acts of kindness, big or small, can create miracles.

International Animal Rescue invites you to read more inspiring stories or support our bears at www.internationalanimalrescue.org.

Generous Cumbrians support appeal on Giving Tuesday

A spokesperson said: "We’d like to say an enormous thank you to everyone who has chosen to donate to our Winter Warmth Appeal so far."

Businesses of all sizes from across Cumbria have been digging deep to help vulnerable older people keep warm this winter.

Companies up and down the county have given generously to this year’s Winter Warmth Appeal, an annual campaign run by Cumbria Community Foundation.

The Foundation is aiming to raise £500,000 to ensure older people don’t have to choose between heating and eating throughout Christmas and the coldest months.

Until 13 December, all donations to the appeal will be doubled, thanks to the generosity of the Foundation’s “match fund champions” – businesses, funders and other organisations that have pledged to match, pound for pound, money given by the public. This means donors have the chance of making double the difference.

Yesterday was Giving Tuesday, when people around the world were encouraged to give to causes they care about, as a counterbalance to the consumerism of the holiday season, particularly Black Friday.

Dr Jenny Benson, Director of Programmes & Partnerships at Cumbria Community Foundation, said: “This Giving Tuesday, we’d like to say an enormous thank you to everyone who has chosen to donate to our Winter Warmth Appeal so far.

“We know this winter is going to be incredibly hard for many older vulnerable members of our community who cannot afford to heat their homes adequately.

“This year, our appeal is more vital than ever before and I would urge anyone who is able to give to do so today.”

Businesses who are supporting the appeal include Keswick Alhambra cinema, who are once again donating the proceeds of their Christmas Day showings, and will also have collection buckets in the foyer throughout December.

Jonathan Moore and Graham King, two of the cinema’s co-owners, said: “We choose to support the Winter Warmth Appeal because it is an obvious fit with our objectives in opening the cinema - it is predominantly the older population we see on Christmas Day and some of them tell us they wouldn't have seen another person, if they had not come out to the cinema. 

"We're also pleased the money raised is spent very directly on supporting people in Cumbria so those who pay for tickets or make a donation can see that their gift is benefiting the community of which they are a part.”

On Christmas Day the cinema will be showing It’s a Wonderful Life, the 70th anniversary remastered White Christmas, and the new Mufasa The Lion King, plus the King’s Christmas Message at 3pm.

Sellafield Ltd have committed to donating to the Winter Warmth Appeal not just this winter but for the next three years.

Eirini Etoimou, Head of Corporate Sustainability & Supply Chain Development at Sellafield Ltd, said: “Supporting those most vulnerable in our communities is at the heart of our social impact programme which is why we have chosen to support the Winter Warmth Appeal again this year. 

"With rising costs, winter can be a tough enough time for older people generally but especially so in more rural communities like ours. The appeal can make a huge difference to people when they really need it most and ensure that nobody has to struggle to heat their homes in the coldest months.”

Other companies donating to the appeal include Ecological Building Systems, Atkins Realis, James Walker and Center Parcs.

Lorna Graham, Deputy General Manager of Ecological Building Systems, which is based in Carlisle, said: “Ecological Building Systems are proud to again support Cumbria Community Foundation’s Winter Warmth Appeal. As a supplier of sustainable building products backed-up with full technical support for low energy retrofit and new build projects, we’re passionate about supporting the local community to stay safe and warm, especially this winter.”

Glen Franklin, Village Director at Center Parcs Whinfell Forest, said: “We feel this is an extremely worthy cause, particularly this year with the changes to the winter fuel allowance.”

Many individuals, families and community groups have also given to the appeal; donations of any size will be very gratefully received.

All donations to the appeal received by Friday 13 December will be matched £1 for £1, thanks to the generosity of the Foundation’s “match fund champions”.

They are: WCF Ltd, John Laing Charitable Trust, Cumberland Council, Westmorland & Furness Council, Electricity North West, Hadfield Trust, Roseland Trust, Nuclear Waste Services, Johnson Fund, EMG Solicitors, The Rotary Club of Carlisle, Brian & Ann Clark Fund, Harvey Family Fund, and various private donors.

Last year Cumbria Community Foundation awarded more than £315,000 in grants – through delivery partners Age UK and Copeland Age & Advice Service – benefiting 1,941 vulnerable older people.

Donate online at: https://cumbriafoundation.enthuse.com/cf/cumbria-winter-warmth-appeal-2024.

To donate by cheque or phone, call 01900 825760 between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.

How to Make Homemade Sloe Gin for Christmas

As the festive season approaches, there’s nothing quite like a bottle of homemade sloe gin to bring warmth and cheer to your Christmas celebrations. 

Not only does it make a delicious treat for yourself, but it’s also a thoughtful gift for friends and family. Plus, making it is wonderfully simple and satisfying. 

Here’s how you can create your own batch of sloe gin in time for Christmas.

What is Sloe Gin?

Sloe gin is a traditional British liqueur made by steeping sloes, the fruit of the blackthorn bush, in gin with sugar. 

The result is a deep ruby-red drink with a sweet yet somewhat tart flavour, perfect for sipping by the fire or mixing into cocktails.

When to Start?

The best time to start making sloe gin is in the autumn, after the first frost. Frost softens the berries, releasing their juices and natural sugars. If you’re late to the game or want to get started sooner, you can mimic this by freezing the berries before use.

To ensure your sloe gin is ready for Christmas, aim to begin around October or early November. It needs at least 6–8 weeks to mature, though longer is even better.

What You’ll Need

Sloes: Around 500g of ripe sloes. If you’re foraging, make sure you’ve correctly identified the berries.

Gin: 1 litre of a good-quality gin. No need for the really top shelf gin, but avoid anything overly harsh.

Sugar: 250g of granulated sugar or adjust to taste.

Large Jar: A sterilised jar with a tight lid, large enough to hold all the ingredients.

Bottles: Sterilised glass bottles for decanting.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Sloes

Wash the sloes thoroughly to remove dirt or debris. If you’ve picked them fresh and they haven’t been frosted, pop them in the freezer overnight to soften.

Prick the Berries

Use a fork, skewer, or cocktail stick to prick each berry. This helps release their juices and speeds up the infusion process.

Combine the Ingredients

Fill your sterilised jar with the sloes. Add the sugar and pour in the gin until the berries are fully submerged. Leave a little space at the top to allow for shaking.

Shake and Store

Seal the jar tightly and shake it well to mix the ingredients. Store it in a cool, dark place.

Shake Regularly

For the first week, give the jar a gentle shake every day to help the sugar dissolve. After that, shake it every few days.

Wait and Taste

Patience is key! Leave your sloe gin to steep for at least 6 weeks. After this, taste it. If you prefer it sweeter, you can add more sugar at this stage and let it infuse for another week.

Strain and Bottle

Once the sloe gin has reached your desired taste, strain it through a muslin cloth or fine sieve into sterilised bottles. Discard the berries (or use them to make sloe gin chocolate truffles for an extra treat!).

How to Serve Sloe Gin

Neat: Enjoy it straight as a warming nightcap.

Cocktails: Mix it into a sloe gin fizz or a festive Negroni.

With Prosecco: Add a splash of sloe gin to a glass of Prosecco for a Christmas toast.

The Perfect Gift

Homemade sloe gin makes a charming Christmas present. Add a personal touch by decorating the bottles with handwritten labels, ribbons, or sprigs of holly.

Final Tips

If you’ve missed the autumn sloe season, don’t worry. You can often find frozen sloes or sloe gin kits online or in specialist homebrew shops.

Experiment with flavours by adding a few extras to your infusion, such as a cinnamon stick, orange peel, or a couple of cloves.

This Christmas, enjoy the fruits of your labour with a glass of sloe gin that’s as delightful to make as it is to drink. Cheers!

Make Your Own Fresh Dips for Christmas: Savoury and Sweet Treats

I was inspired to research and write this blogpost whilst my wife and I were enjoying some of her homemade dips. Which is a prelude for our Christmas dipping and munching!

The festive season is the perfect time to elevate your snacking game with homemade dips. 

Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party, putting together a festive grazing board, or simply enjoying a cosy evening by the fire, dips can be the star of the show. 

Here’s how to create both savoury and sweet dips that are fresh, flavourful, and easy to make.

Savoury Dips for Festive Grazing

1. Classic Creamy Hummus

Hummus is a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with veggies, crackers, or even warm pitta bread.

Ingredients:

1 can of chickpeas (drained, reserve some liquid)

2 tbsp tahini

Juice of 1 lemon

2 tbsp olive oil

1 garlic clove

½ tsp cumin

Salt to taste

Instructions:

Blend all ingredients in a food processor until smooth.

Add a splash of the reserved chickpea liquid for a creamier consistency.

Garnish with olive oil, smoked paprika, or toasted pine nuts.

2. Herbed Yogurt Dip

A light, tangy option perfect for balancing rich holiday treats.

Ingredients:

200g Greek yoghurt (full fat is better)

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp chopped fresh dill

1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

1 tsp lemon zest

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Mix all ingredients in a bowl.

Serve chilled with crudités, breadsticks, or roasted potatoes.

3. Roasted Red Pepper and Feta Dip

This vibrant, flavour-packed dip is sure to stand out on the table.

Ingredients:

2 large roasted red peppers (jarred or homemade)

100g feta cheese

1 garlic clove

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

Blend all ingredients until smooth.

Adjust seasoning and drizzle with olive oil before serving.

Sweet Dips for Festive Indulgence

1. Chocolate Hazelnut Dip

Rich and indulgent, this dip pairs wonderfully with fruit or biscuits.

Ingredients:

200g hazelnut spread (e.g., Nutella)

100g cream cheese (softened)

1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

Mix all ingredients until smooth and creamy.

Serve with strawberries, apple slices, or shortbread.

2. Honey-Cinnamon Yoghurt Dip

Light and refreshing, this dip complements spiced Christmas treats.

Ingredients:

200g Greek yoghurt (Again, full fat is best)

2 tbsp honey

1 tsp cinnamon

½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

Stir all ingredients together until well combined.

Serve with gingerbread, fruit, or even mince pies.

3. Salted Caramel Cheesecake Dip

A showstopper dip that’s bound to impress.

Ingredients:

150g cream cheese

50g icing sugar

50g salted caramel sauce

50ml double cream

Instructions:

Beat the cream cheese and icing sugar until smooth.

Add the caramel sauce and cream, then mix until fluffy.

Serve with pretzels, digestive biscuits, brownies, or fruit skewers.

Tips for a Perfect Dip Spread

Balance Flavours: Offer a mix of savoury and sweet dips to cater to different tastes.

Presentation: Use festive bowls or platters to add a Christmas touch.

Accompaniments: Provide a variety of dippers like crackers, veggies, fruits, breads, and biscuits.

Make Ahead: Most dips can be prepared a day in advance, giving you more time to enjoy the festivities.

Homemade dips are not only delicious but also a great way to add a personal touch to your Christmas celebrations. With these recipes, you’ll have a selection of fresh, crowd-pleasing options that make the season even more special. Happy dipping and Merry Christmas!

Brighten Their Days: Gifting a SAD Light for Someone with Seasonal Affective Disorder

The winter months can be a challenging time for those who suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). 

Shorter days and limited sunlight can lead to symptoms such as low mood, fatigue, and a lack of motivation. 

If someone in your life struggles with SAD, a thoughtful gift that could make a real difference is a SAD light. (I bought one for my wife a couple of Christmases ago. It was a very welcomed gift.) 

Here’s why a SAD light is the perfect present, how it works, and tips on choosing the right one.

What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

SAD is a type of depression that occurs at certain times of the year, most commonly in autumn and winter. It’s believed to be linked to reduced sunlight exposure, which affects serotonin levels, circadian rhythms, and vitamin D production. Symptoms can range from mild lethargy to severe depression.

A SAD light, also known as a light therapy lamp, can help alleviate symptoms by mimicking natural sunlight, promoting better mood and energy levels.

Why a SAD Light Makes an Ideal Gift

Improves Wellbeing: A SAD light can significantly boost mood and help regulate the body's internal clock, making winter months more manageable.

Thoughtful and Personal: Giving a SAD light shows you’ve put thought into their wellbeing and are offering practical support.

Practical Benefits: These lamps can be used during work or relaxation, making them a versatile addition to their daily routine.

How SAD Lights Work

SAD lights emit bright, full-spectrum light that mimics natural sunlight. When used for 20–30 minutes a day, usually in the morning, they help to:

Boost serotonin levels for improved mood.

Regulate melatonin production for better sleep.

Align circadian rhythms for more energy during the day.

The intensity of the light, measured in lux, is key. Most SAD lamps offer 10,000 lux, which is sufficient to replicate outdoor light exposure.

Tips for Choosing a SAD Light

When selecting a SAD light as a gift, consider the following:

Light Intensity: Look for a lamp with 10,000 lux for effective therapy.

Size and Design: Compact, portable designs are ideal for desk, dressing table or table-top use, while larger models may be better for home settings.

UV-Free Light: Ensure the lamp is UV-free to avoid skin or eye damage.

Ease of Use: Look for features like adjustable brightness, timers, and a sturdy base.

Certification: Check for medical certifications or endorsements to ensure the lamp meets quality standards.

Thoughtful Pairing Ideas

To make the gift extra special, pair the SAD light with:

A cosy blanket: Encourage them to create a snug morning routine.

A journal: Help them track their mood and progress.

A book on mental health: Provide tips and insights into managing SAD.

A playlist of uplifting songs: Brighten their day with music.

A Personal Touch

When giving the gift, include a heartfelt note to let them know you care. You could write something like:

"I hope this light brings a little more sunshine to your days. You’re not alone in this, and I’m here to support you every step of the way."

Conclusion

A SAD light isn’t just a gift; it’s a beacon of hope during the darker months. By giving one, you’re not only offering a practical solution but also showing your love and support in a meaningful way.

This Christmas, help someone you care about brighten their days and feel the warmth of your kindness, even in the chilliest of seasons.

Why a Personalised Mug is Still a Popular Christmas Gift

In the ever-evolving world of Christmas gift-giving, where high-tech gadgets and luxury experiences often dominate wish lists, some classics remain steadfastly cherished. 

One such example is the personalised mug, which continues to warm hearts (and hands) as a popular Christmas gift. But what makes this humble item such an enduring choice?

1. Practicality Meets Personal Touch

A mug is one of the most practical items you can give someone. Nearly everyone starts their day with tea, coffee, or hot chocolate, making it a universally useful gift. Add a personal touch—such as a name, meaningful quote, or inside joke—and it transforms from a simple vessel into a cherished keepsake.

This dual functionality of being both useful and sentimental ensures that a personalised mug is more than just a gift; it’s a daily reminder of the giver's thoughtfulness.

2. Perfect for All Ages and Relationships

Personalised mugs have an unparalleled versatility. Whether you’re shopping for a co-worker, a beloved grandparent, or your best mate, a customised mug can suit any recipient. For children, you can add cute illustrations or their favourite characters. For adults, a sleek design with their initials or a witty phrase might hit the mark.

This adaptability makes it an ideal choice for secret Santa exchanges, close friends, or family members alike.

3. Affordable Yet Thoughtful

Not everyone has the budget for extravagant gifts, and that’s okay. Personalised mugs are relatively inexpensive, especially when compared to high-end presents. Despite their affordability, they don’t feel cheap because they require thought and effort to personalise.

The added element of design—whether it’s a heartfelt message or a funny meme—ensures the recipient feels valued without the giver breaking the bank.

4. Nostalgia and Emotional Value

Christmas is a time for nostalgia and creating memories, and a personalised mug fits seamlessly into this narrative. It can commemorate milestones, like a new job, a baby’s first Christmas, or even a shared experience from the year. Seeing a cherished photo or a warm message every morning evokes a sense of connection and belonging that aligns perfectly with the festive spirit.

5. Endless Customisation Options

Thanks to modern printing techniques, the options for customisation are limitless. From high-quality photo mugs to minimalist designs, glitter finishes, and heat-sensitive colour-changing styles, there’s something for every aesthetic. This variety ensures that a personalised mug can reflect the recipient’s personality and preferences, making it truly unique.

6. A Mug for Every Occasion

While Christmas might be the immediate reason for gifting, personalised mugs have a timeless appeal. They can be used year-round and often become part of someone’s daily routine. They’re also highly durable, serving as a constant reminder of a happy moment long after the holiday season ends.

Conclusion: The Simple Gift with a Big Impact

In an age where people value thoughtfulness and individuality, the personalised mug remains a timeless and meaningful Christmas gift. Its practicality, emotional resonance, and customisation options make it a standout choice for those looking to give a present that’s both simple and impactful.

So, this Christmas, skip the generic gifts and opt for a personalised mug—because nothing says “I care” quite like a morning cup of warmth designed just for them.

You can order them online, in high street printshops or in concessions in supermarkets or some chemist shops. 

Do you plan on gifting mugs this year? Share your ideas in the comments below!

New Year ResOILution from Borderfields

As a vibrant component of a healthy diet – Borderfields cold pressed rapeseed oil can ease you into the new year with an abundance of nutritional merits, including a near perfect balance of Omega 3, 6 and 9. 

It also has half the saturated fat content compared to olive oil, has no additives and is a good source of natural Vitamin E – improving health, wellbeing, and lifestyle.

If you haven't discovered Borderfields range of infused oils yet, you are in for a treat, with garlic, sweet basil, thyme, smoked chipotle and the award-winning Sicilian lemon – you can add a touch of gastro glamour to the turkey, the roasties and the parsnips, and the taste party doesn't need to end there, for a limited time only, you can order a nutritional 12 oil hamper – a great Christmas gift for the foodie in your life.

Each hamper contains all the oils you will need to get you through Christmas and into 2025.

Gold Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil 500ml x 2 | Gold Fragrant Garlic Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil 250ml | Gold Sweet Basil Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil 250ml | Gold Thyme Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil 250ml | Gold Sicilian Lemon Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil 250ml | Gold Smoked Chipotle Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil 250ml | Basil 2 cal Spray Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil 250ml | Lemon 2 cal Spray Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil 250ml | Garlic 2 cal Spray Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil 250ml | Chilli 2 cal Spray Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil 250ml | The Everyday Rapeseed Oil Spray 250ml

The Borderfields Gold Infusion Gift Pack offers four dinky 100ml bottles, or you can pick and mix six bottles with free delivery.

A spokesperson said: "We may not have Frankincense and Myrrh, but our GOLD range will help create some star dishes through Christmas, Boxing Day and Beyond."

https://borderfields.co.uk/

@borderfieldsoil