Great Christmas Music Ideas
Simon Evans with some great musical Christmas gift ideas We Are Normal But We Are Still Barking Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band (Madfish)
...Read More
Enjoy Life
One of Choice’s aims is to provide ideas and inspiration to readers. Our articles on food, great value wine, recipes from around the world, enjoying your garden plus reviews and stories on books, DVDs music, films and theatre will do just that.
Recent Articles
Christmas books - gift ideas
Christmas book gift ideas, selected by Simon Evans BOOK OF THE MONTH Dip My Brain In Joy: A Life with Neil Innes, by Yvonne Innes
...Read MoreAutumn Reads
The pick of the latest hardbacks and paperbacks, reviewed by Simon Evans A Voyage Around The Queen , by Craig Brown
...Read MoreSummer 2024 Books
The pick of the latest hardbacks and paperbacks, reviewed by Simon Evans Brian Moore Saved Our Sundays , by Matt Eastley
...Read MoreSummer DVDs
Fancy a night in front of the box? Simon Evans has some great ideas from the latest batch of home entertainment releases The Music Lovers (BFI, Blu-ray)
...Read MoreSummer CDs
If you're not sure what to add to your playlist, we have some fantastic suggestions for you. One Hand Clapping Paul McCartney and Wings (Capitol)
...Read MoreLatest book reviews
The pick of the latest hardbacks and paperbacks, reviewed by Simon Evans Echoing Greens, by Brendan Cooper
...Read MoreMay DVD Reviews
Fancy a night in front of the box? Simon Evans has some great ideas from the latest batch of home entertainment releases Big Banana Feet (BFI, Blu-ray)
...Read MoreMay's book reviews
The pick of the latest hardbacks and paperbacks, reviewed by Simon Evans Bowie Odyssey 74 , by Simon Goddard
...Read MoreMay's CD reviews
Simon Evans reviews the pick of the latest CDs Bob Stanley and Pete Wiggs present Incident at a Free Festival (Ace)
...Read MoreThat English Riviera Touch
Norman Wright and photographer Clive Nicholls discover the delights of Torbay at Daish’s The Devonshire Hotel
...Read MoreApril's DVD reviews
Simon Evans picks some of the spring DVD releases in his April review. The Holdovers (Dazzler Media, Blu-ray and DVD)
...Read MoreApril's book reviews
The pick of the latest hardbacks and paperbacks, reviewed by Simon Evans A Very Private School , by Charles Spencer
...Read MoreApril's CD reviews
Simon Evans reviews the latest music releases Jethro Tull Chateau D'Herouville Sessions 1973 (Warner Records)
...Read MoreMarch's DVD review
Fancy a night in front of the box? Simon Evans has some great ideas from the latest batch of home entertainment releases A Kid for two Farthings (StudioCanal, DVD and Blu-ray)
...Read MoreMarch book reviews
The pick of the latest hardbacks, reviewed by Simon Evans Original Sins , by Erin Young
...Read MoreMarch's CD reviews
Simon Evans reviews the latest music releases Rod Stewart and Jools Holland Swing Fever (east west)
...Read MoreFebruary's DVDs
Fancy a night in front of the box? Simon Evans has some great ideas from the latest batch of home entertainment releases Circle of Danger (StudioCanal, Blu-ray and DVD)
...Read MoreFebruary's books
The pick of the latest hardbacks and paperbacks, reviewed by Simon Evans Charles III: The Making of a King , by Robert Hardman
...Read MoreWinter books
In need of a new year pick-me-up? Simon Evans rounds up the latest crop of great reads
...Read MoreJanuary's DVD releases
Fancy a night in front of the box? Simon Evans has some great ideas from the latest batch of home entertainment releases Scala!!! ( BFI, Blu-ray)
...Read MoreChristmas book reviews
Whether you are looking for a gift, or perhaps a festive treat for yourself, Simon Evans suggests the pick of this years Christmas books
...Read MoreNovember DVD reviews
Fancy a night in front of the box? Simon Evans has some great ideas from the latest batch of home entertainment releases All Creatures Great and Small Series Four - Complete Series One to Four box set
...Read MoreNovember's Music Reviews
Looking for the next album to add to your download list? Simon Evans reviews the latest music releases. The Beatles - 1962-66 and 1967-70 (Universal)
...Read MoreNovember book reviews
Looking for your next book? Simon Evans has reviews the latest releases in Hardback and paperback. Hardback book reviews
...Read MoreOctober's DVD reviews
Fancy a night in front of the box? Simon Evans has some great ideas from the latest batch of home entertainment releases The Brokenwood Mysteries: Series 9 (Acorn Media International, DVD)
...Read MoreOctober's New CD releases
Simon Evans reviews the latest music releases The Who - Who’s Next/Lifehouse Super Deluxe Edition (UMC-Polydor)
...Read MoreOctober's book reviews
Simon Evans reviews the latest hardbacks. Let us know if you've read any of the below or are planning to, we'd love to hear your own reviews. A Northern Wind , by David Kynaston Post-war Britain has been well documented in recent years by Dominic Sandbrook and Peter Hennessy, but it is David Kynaston’s Tales of a New Jerusalem series that seems to best capture the spirit and mood of the times.
...Read MoreSeptember's DVD Reviews
Fancy a night in front of the box? Simon Evans has some great ideas from the latest batch of home entertainment releases Midsomer Murders: The Complete Series 22 The Chelsea Detective: Series One (Acorn Media International)
...Read MoreDVD selection for August 2023
AUGUST DVDs Fancy a night in front of the box? Simon Evans has some great ideas from the latest batch of home entertainment releases Earth (BBC, DVD)
...Read MoreSeptember's book reviews
Simon Evans reviews the latest hardbacks Answered Prayers, by Duncan Hamilton
...Read MoreLatest music reviews August 2023
Simon Evans reviews the latest music releases this month. Elvis Presley - Aloha from Hawaii Via Satellite (Sony Music)
...Read More
August Paperback Reviews
Simon Evans makes his pick of the latest paperbacks Diana, by Ken Wharfe and Ros Coward
...Read MoreAugust hardback book reviews
Simon Evans reviews the latest hardbacks. Different Times , by David Stubbs
...Read MoreJuly 2023 Roundup
More great books to look out for, reviewed by Simon Evans. Set in Second World War London, The Air Raid Book Club , by Annie Lyons (Headline, £20) celebrates the healing power of books as two women, damaged in their different ways, find a way of bringing together a community going through its darkest hour…
...Read MorePick of the paperbacks July 2023
Simon Evans makes his pick of the latest paperbacks. There's plenty to choose from this month. Something for everyone. The Great Train Robber, by Ronnie Biggs
...Read MoreJuly 23 Hardback book reviews
Looking for something new to read, well Simon Evans has the answer, as he reviews the latest hardbacks. We'd love to know if you've read any of the books yourself, or have a recommendation of your own. Let us know your thoughts on any of our social media pages: Facebook Instagram Twitter
...Read MoreJuly 2023 DVD releases
Fancy a night in front of the box? Simon Evans has some great ideas from the latest batch of home entertainment releases Western Approaches (BFI)
...Read MoreJuly 2023 CD reviews
Looking for something new to listen to? Simon Evans reviews the latest CDs. Nina Simone - You’ve Got To Learn - (Verve)
...Read MorePick of the paperbacks June 2023
Simon Evans makes his pick of the latest paperbacks. Old Rage, by Sheila Hancock
...Read MoreJune DVDs
Fancy a night in front of the box? Simon Evans has some great ideas from the latest batch of home entertainment releases The Adventures of Black Beauty: The Complete Series (Network, Blu-ray and DVD)
...Read MoreHardback book reviews - June 2023
Enjoy reading? Not sure what book to pick up next? Simon Evans reviews the latest hardbacks. The Bee Gees: Children of the World, by Bob Stanley
...Read MoreSimon Evans CD Reviews for June 2023
Undecided what to listen to, or in need some inspiration? Simon Evans has the answer. Bob Dylan - Shadow Kingdom - (Sony)
...Read MoreTesco Summer indoors and out
With the new Tesco Spring/Summer 23 homeware range, shoppers can transform homes into welcoming sanctuaries with trend-led accessories, elevated essentials, and seasonal must-haves, starting from just £3.00. Featuring new products across soft furnishings, bedding, tableware and home accessories, the SS23 range showcases five stylish trends for shoppers to choose from; Wonder, Sundrenched, Abode, Emerge and Fluidity. Each has its own distinct style, taking inspiration from spring brights, sunset hues, monochromatic glamour, the Mediterranean and countryside flora.
...Read MoreBook reviews
Looking for more? Here are some other reviews from books that were also published.
...Read MoreMay 2023 paperback book reviews
MAY PAPERBACKS Simon Evans makes his pick of the latest paperbacks Queen of Our Times , by Robert Hardman
...Read More
April 2023 paperback reviews
Pick of the paperbacks with Simon Evans How to Fix Northern Ireland, by Malachi O’Doherty
...Read MoreApril 2023 Hardback book reviews
Simon Evans reviews the latest hardbacks The Tour, by Simon Wilde Time was when international cricketers would only embark on one overseas tour a year, but that was often enough, entailing months away from home, sometimes on the other side of the world, enduring basic living conditions and frequently hostile crowds.
...Read MoreMore March 2023 must-reads
On the Bookshelf More March must-reads, selected by Simon Evans
...Read MoreMarch - Pick of the paperbacks
Simons Evans provides his reviews for March: This is Not a Pity Memoir, by Abi Morgan
...Read More
Afternoon Tea
Anyone for celebration afternoon tea? Afternoon tea with finger sandwiches, fancy cakes a glass of fizz and a pot of your favourite brew is a great way of marking a special occasion or to break out from winter.
...Read MoreMarch 2023 - DVD releases
Wondering what to watch next, Let Choice help you with some of the latest DVD's released in March. Children’s Film Foundation Bumper Box Volume 4 - (BFI)
...Read MoreMarch 2023 Music
MARCH MUSIC Catch up with the latest releases Eva Cassidy - I Can Only Be Me (Blix Street)
...Read MoreFebruary 2023 Books Round up
February bookshelf The Little Girl Who Could Not Cry , by Lidia Maksymowicz (Macmillan, £15.99) is the remarkable story of a young girl who survived Auschwitz and, even after suffering unimaginable horrors, would, decades later, still believe in the redeeming power of love.
...Read MorePick of the paperbacks - February 2023
February – Pick of the paperbacks Revenge by Tom Bower
...Read MoreBook reviews February 2023
February hardback highlights. What are you reading this month? Spare, by Prince Harry
...Read MoreDVD recommendations
Below you will find our DVD reviews for February 2023. The Outer Limits Complete Original Series (Medium Rare)
...Read MoreFebruary's music reviews
Here we have some of the most recent music reviews from Simon Evans. Bob Dylan Fragments: Time Out of Mind Sessions (Sony Music)
...Read MoreFreedom on two wheels
Clive Nicholls lets the battery take the strain when he tries out the Volt Pulse LS e-bike Have you invested in an e-bike or are you thinking of investing? We'd love to hear your thoughts. Click here to read the full article
...Read MoreMake do and mend
If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. If it is – take it to a Repair Café, advises David Hughes. Have you been to a repair cafe or do you own one? We'd love to hear your thoughts. Simply contact us on editorial@choicemag.co.uk Read our full article on Repair Cafes by clicking here.
...Read MoreForay into the Fens
You don’t need to travel to the ends of the earth when there’s beauty in your own backyard. Norman Wright takes a short trip from our Peterborough HQ to visit fantastic Fenland. Click here to read the full article
...Read MoreChristmas reads
Day 5 of our Choice-mas countdown to Christmas. Some of us are lucky enough to have some time off over the festive period. Whether you need a new book to read or you're stuck for a Christmas present. Here at Choice we hope we can help. Click here to read the full article. Let us know if you have or do read any books from our selection. We'd love to hear from you.
...Read MoreTasty, healthy recipes by Joanne Wood
After a life-changing medical experience, Joanne Wood decided to have a complete overhaul of her diet.Through this process she discovered a love of food, and food photography, and documented her journey on her blog, and Instagram page, The Balanced Kitchen. Joanne’s love of healthy food, and passion forphotography, has led to her now working with companies as a recipe designer and photographer. Joanne says that, for her, food is about much more than sustenance and she believes it can bring creativity, colour, health and happiness to our lives.
...Read MoreKeeping fit and healthy with the Green goddess Part 2
Keeping in trim with the Green Goddess. I n the second of a two-part series, model, fitness expert and journalist Diana Moran shares tips on keeping fit and healthy after 50. Do you follow the trends in make-up or do you think women should find the look that suits them and stick with it? I’ve never followed a trend! I love make-up and know what suits me and enjoy my routine, which I repeat daily. I will add a bit more in the evening if I am going out and on high days and holidays.
...Read MoreKeeping fit and healthy with the Green goddess Part 1
Keeping fit and healthy with the Green Goddess. In the first two part series, model, fitness expert and journalist Diana Moran shares tips on keeping fit after 50 and how she has dealt with her own health issues. DIANA MORAN is probably best remembered from the Eighties, when she hosted the exercise segment of BBC1’s Breakfast Time in her trademark leotard. Back on our screens to help people stay fit and supple while staying indoors, here she reveals how she keeps looking amazing three decades on.
...Read MoreFinger-licking Good! Tasty Chicken recipes
Tasty chicken recipes for you to try, suggested by Ben Ford and David Turofsky In their latest book,Wings and Things, Ben Ford and David Turofsky, the duo behind the acclaimed Wingmans restaurant, offer a selection of their crowd-pleasing chicken dishes. Here are a couple to try THE ROUTE 66 The Route 66 is our take on the classic American chicken sandwich, using pankobreaded chicken thigh, gem lettuce, Monterey Jack cheese and pickles.
...Read MoreBeauty: Say 'Allo 'Allo to an alluring look
I recently had a chat with my friend Vicki Michelle on all things health and beauty. Vicki, best known for the BBC comedy 'Allo 'Allo!, also had a stint in 'the jungle' in 2014 on I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here. Vicki is still a busy actress and recently appeared in the Hormonal Housewives theatre tour and a one-woman show An Audience with Vicki Michelle , as well as starring in pantomime at Christmas. I asked her how she stays in shape and always looks amazing.
...Read MoreBritish Library: Palace of the printed word
It's been likened to a huge ocean liner sailing through central London, while it reminded Prince Charles of a finishing school for spies. Whatever you think of its appearance, however, the British Library is one of the world's great repositories of learning.
...Read MoreLook good and feel great with CBD
Cannabidiol is a natural remedy used for many ailments that is now being widely used in the skincare market Commonly known as CBD, cannabidiol is a naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis/hemp plant. Confusingly cannabis and hemp are actually the same plant but come from different parts of it.
...Read MoreInterior design: Inspiration for outdoor spaces
The Easter weekend with its record temperatures truly kick-started outside fun for 2019's spring/summer seasons. While children happily splashed in paddling pools, and barbecues were dusted off, your attention was most likely drawn to what needs to be done to spruce up your outside living area. It goes without saying that weekly lawn mowing, pruning and weed maintenance can work wonders when it comes to the appearance of your garden and your home overall.
...Read MoreSummer fun at Belvoir Castle
Fireworks and family fun are part of the programme of events taking place at Belvoir Castle this summer. Located on the borders of Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire, Belvoir Castle has something for adults and children alike to enjoy throughout the year. August 19th 2023, Belvoir Castle plays host to Firework Champions, now in its 14th year.
...Read MoreFinding Fitness Starts With Fashion
1 in 3 use clothing as a motivation to get fit 23% feel more confident in the gym with a new outfit 79% need to feel good about themselves to work out But gym-selfies are a no-no - 95% of people wouldn’t take a gym selfie or post their workout on social media
...Read More‘In Vogue’ Veg – Cavolo Nero Sales Grow by 14%
Shoppers bought 14% more of the brassica cavolo nero in the past year than the previous year and added over 3,500 kgs of the veg to their shopping trolley Over the past 12 months 1 in 10 people bought the brassica for the first time and 1 in 5 purchased it more often The increase in sales is being driven by the growing popularity of plant-based diets and celebrity support for cavolo nero, as well as its health benefits and taste
...Read MoreEat Continental and live longer
As each summer comes around and we eventually migrate back to lighter, healthier foods away from the comfort-eating pies, puddings and casseroles of the colder months, the term Mediterranean or Continental Diet can be heard being bandied around, as frequently as the songs of the summer birds that also return to our shores each year.
...Read MoreA life-affirming book... about death
Most of us prefer not to even think about our mortality, let alone talk about it to our families and tell them what we would like to happen at our funeral. Having a plan an give you peace of mind that your life will be marked in the way you would like. It can also make it much easier for the ones you leave behind as they just have to follow your wished rather than guess (and perhaps argue) about what they think you wanted.
...Read MoreGet Sewing: Floral bespoke notebook cover
Transform any plain A5 notebook with a beautiful bespoke cover using this simple but effective project. This perfectly girly design would make a great present for a relative or friend. I’ve used some of our Threaders Cotton Glitter Fabric for this project but you can put your own stamp on the notebook by using any fabric that you like. Two fat quarters of Threaders Cotton Glitter Fabric
...Read MoreFind your family fortunes... for FREE!
The funny thing about doing your family history is, the more you discover, the more you want to find out. There’s so much more to it than acquiring a list of names, places and dates. To really strike gold tracing your ancestors, you need to start putting meat on the bones of the dry facts.
...Read MoreBeauty: Get set for spring...
Skin regeneration slows down as we get older but that doesn't mean we can't brighten and refresh out complexion after a log winter. The latest skin buffers, such as Lulu's best-selling skin care range, Time Bomb Take off Time Cleanse and Buff- £16.50 at: (www.timebomb.com)- are super-refined and can be used once or twice a week to pep up the circulation.
...Read MoreSpanish Recipes: Small is beautiful
Whether you are serving a starter before a meal, enjoying some small bites with drinks, or filling the table with multiple dishes to feast on, there is no bad time to indulge in these flavour-filled recipes, taken from Tapas: and other Spanish plates to share (Ryland Peters & Small, £9.99). Chorizo in red wine Spicy fresh chorizo, the size of regular breakfast sausages, works well in this recipe. Large quantities of paprika give the dish a rich colour and a pungent flavour.
...Read MoreThe Vegan Revolution
You would have to have been on holiday to Mars, or trapped on a remote island, to be unaware of the rise in popularity – certainly as far as the food press is concerned – of veganism. Often termed ultra-vegetarians, those following the vegan way seek to live by a philosophy which seeks to exclude, as far as possible and practicable, all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing or any other purpose.
...Read MoreInterior Design: Maximise your living space
Last month I explored minimalism in interiors, and now I’m going to do a 360-degree turn and look at maximalism as a design concept. I can’t say that this style has ever appealed to me in its entirety – too much ‘busyness’ unnerves me. However , take certain elements of the look and it can be playfully charming.
...Read MorePets need a spring clean too
As spring sunlight begins to penetrate the recesses of our homes, reaching spots that remained unilluminated through winter, so the urge to have a good spring-clean comes to the fore. You will see this reflected in the natural world as well. Birds will start to re-line nests, badgers and foxes will clear out dens and sets where the young have spent the winter. For hygiene, health and a fresh start, a good spring-clean is as important for our pets as it is for ourselves.
...Read MoreVisit Family Tree Live
In the March and April issues of Choice, we collaborated with Family Tree Magazine to offer you advice on uncovering your personal lineage. Family Tree live- the unmissably family history event of 2019- takes place in the Great Hall at London's iconic Alexandra Palace on 26th and 27th April. The brand new show is hosted by Family Tree magazine in partnership with the Federation of Family History of Societies and is a fantastic opportunity to learn more about how to trace your family tree.
...Read MoreMasterChef: Classic with a Twist
With a layer of raspberry jam beneath the lemon curd and neatly piped mounds of Italian meringue on top this is a restuarant- standard take on a classic dessert? (Simon Wood) Serves: 12 Prep: 25 minutes, plus chilling Cooking: 1 hour, plus cooling Ingredients: For the filling:
...Read MoreGet Sewing: Quilted pot-holder
Add a splash of colour to your kitchen with this handy pot-holder. Quick to create and a good project to challenge beginners, this potholder makes a great gift or can be created for your own home – simply choose your fabric to suit. My pot-holder uses the new Tokyo Blue fabric range from Threaders, which features a palette of cool blues complemented by bold greens and striking yellows for a beautiful contemporary finish.
...Read MoreBob Dylan "Rock and Roll music wasn’t enough for me”
His name may be instantly recognisable, his musical and cultural legacy unchallenged, but for many people Bob Dylan’s music is often experienced second-hand, when his songs are recorded or performed by someone else.
...Read MorePlant Power Day: 7th March 2019
Plant Power Day is back on 7th March 2019, and Alpro is calling on the nation to ‘Go Big on Plants’ and make plant-based foods the star of the show for the day. It’s as simple as bringing veggies, fruits, whole grains, pulses, legumes, nuts and seeds from the side of the plate to front and centre – because this way of eating is good for us, and good for our planet… And it only takes one day to make a difference!
...Read MoreInterior Design: Less is more in minimalist home
Nowadays, life for many can often be described as chaotic and stressful. The relentless challenge of trying to find a successful balance between family, work and social lives can leave people frazzled and in need of a place to recharge their batteries.
...Read MoreA second chance at love
With news of rising divorce rates, you might be forgiven for thinking that romance is dead – but this couldn’t be further from the truth.
...Read MoreInterior Design: Great Gatsby Cabinet
You will need: Rust-Oleum Furniture Paint Satin Finish Carbon Rust-Oleum Metallic Furniture Paint Gold Wallpaper of your choice Wallpaper paste Replacement handles, if necessary. These were purchased from Amazon Rust-Oleum Furniture Wax Clear
...Read MoreThe rise and rise of the birthday cake
From freezer cakes and synthetic ingredients to Bake Off-inspired showstoppers and a focus on organic, vegan and free from; Food Historian Angela Clutton looks back at the history of the birthday cake and how our tastes have changed over the past 40 years to mark organic and gluten free flour producer Doves Farm’s 40th birthday. The history of the birthday cake: 1970s to now 1970s
...Read MoreWalking back to happiness
Walking is one of the simplest forms of exercise but also one of the most effective at improving and maintaining health. It is also a great way to immerse yourself in wonderful landscapes during walking holidays at home or abroad. Research from all over the world shows that the skill we learn around our first birthday and often take for granted as we grow has a huge impact on our lives if we just put one foot in front of the other regularly.
...Read MoreBaking With Veg
If you love baking and brassicas, then we have some tasty new recipes for you to try! Discover Great Veg has teamed up with leading food blogger and author Kate Hackworthy of Veggie Desserts to create some delicious new ways to enjoy our favourite veg – cavolo nero, kale and spinach!
...Read MoreTotally Tina Tour
and comes to PETERBOROUGH – Key Theatre on Friday 9th November 2018! It’s been the UK’s official number one Tina Turner tribute for the past five years (as voted by the Agents Association of Great Britain), with a Lifetime Achievement Award under its belt and a hectic, fast-growing gig schedule right across the UK and into Europe to boot. The cast of ‘Totally Tina’ it seems, is definitely ‘better than all the rest’.
...Read MoreHow to take care of your hair over-50
By Trish McMorine, hairdresser at retirement living community, Auchlochan Garden Village In my job, I get to see a variety of lovely ladies and gentlemen who are all enjoying their retirement in the beautiful surroundings of the Scottish countryside. While every one of my customers is different – as are we all – there are some recurring issues that we see with our hair as we age.
...Read MoreThe nation's most popular cake recipes
Doves Farm has shared recipes for three of the nation’s most popular cakes; deliciously moist Chocolate Cake with a rich buttercream filling, sweet and comforting Date and Walnut Cake and Lemon Drizzle Cake with a soft sponge centre and crunchy citrus topping.
...Read MoreYour views: Can you help?
I always enjoy reading Choice and the August issue is no exception. I particularly enjoyed Barry McLoughlin's article 'The Austerity Olympics' on the 1948 London Games. I wonder if Barry would help me to find the answer to the following. in the 100m heats, one of he athletes galloped the distance instead of normal running! He was in the outside lane and I don't think he qualified for the next round. I have seen this in the film of the Games immediately afterwards. Who was he?
...Read MoreHail the grandparent aupairs
Grandparents are often the first choice for parents looking for childcare. Not only do they offer their services free of charge- which helps parents on a tight budget- the parents also appreciate the experience the older generation have when looking after their little ones. The attitude was one of the sparks that ignited the idea behind the Granny Aupair Agency which I founded in 2010.
...Read MoreBeauty: Denise Welch "I love the shape I'm in at 60"
Bubbly actress and Loose Women star Denise Welch celebrates her 60th birthday this summer, and she's looking better than ever having lost two stone. Here she reveals how she stays in shape, her skin care must-haves and why her mother's favourite perfume is now hers, too... Why do you think LighterLife has worked differently from other diets you've tried?
...Read MoreThe Austerity Olympics
Everyone remembers the London Olympics of 2012… a triumph for British sport and culture, with their captivating opening ceremony and the stunning success of our athletes garlanded with almost 30 gold medals. Less well-remembered are the London Olympics 64 years earlier which were a triumph, too, in their own, much smaller way. Seventy years ago this summer, Britain came to the aid of the international sporting community to stage the summer 1948 Games – ‘the XIV Olympiad of the Modern Era’.
...Read MoreHealthy reasons to acquire a taste for olives
From simple black and green ones to marinated or stuffed, there is a Crespo olive to suit your taste buds or favourite dish. Olives are a store cupboard hero, which come to the rescue with an easy and cost-effective way to add flavour and texture to your food. Crespo’s simple ideas will inspire you to make the most of and use up a jar of olives in your everyday cooking.
...Read MoreGrand Treats for Grandchildren
With school holidays under way and August stretching ahead, there are some great opportunities to spend time with grandchildren and to take them out and get them away from their computers and mobile phones. however, a new school year is not far away either, and in today's high-pressure environment grandparents can build on the holiday treats and extend their influence as role models into the new term.
...Read MoreDeclutter your home, and clear your mind
Is your attic, spare room or garage bursting at the seams and you're running out of room to store things? Whenever you go in, you promse yourself you'll sort out the clutter one day soom, but somehow that day enver sawns.However, you may now be prompted into action if you know studies are showing decluttering is not only good for your mental health, it relieves stress and re-energises you as well.
...Read MoreScandi-style Mules for Swollen Feet
The new Scandi-style Donna mules from Cosyfeet provide supreme comfort for swollen feet. With 100% pure wool uppers and lining, these luxurious slip-ons gently form to the shape of your foot and are soft, warm and breathable.
...Read MoreBeetroot and Walnut Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
These tasty treats are nutty, moist and oh so creamy! Try after dinner when you fancy a little something sweet, or pop one in your lunchbox to improve your day no end. Preparation time: 25 mins Serves: 12 You’ll need: 12 cupcake cases For the cupcakes:
...Read MoreIn your garden: October
As we move towards the winter months, we tend to spend less time out in the garden, but no less time looking at it. From the comfort of a warm armchair it can be disappointing to look over a garden of bare soil and decaying annuals, so we should use the autumn to prepare our spaces to provide winter interest where possible.
...Read MoreDr Norman Croucher: The toughest summit of them all
When Norman Croucher was a teenager, he lost both legs below the knee in a railway accident.
...Read MoreCraft Corner: Sweet Easter Basket
Filled with chocolates or sweets of your choice, this little basket makes a lovely Easter treat for a friend or family member. Or, for a birthday present with a personal touch, why not fill it with some mini-soaps? I’ve used some of our Sew Lovely printable papers but you can use any papers and decorations you like to put your own stamp on the project. Supplies:
...Read MoreHave your cake and eat your Easter egg too!
With Easter just around the corner, Green's has launched a new baking mix that is sure to satisfy the UK's cake and chocolate lovers. The new Chocolate Egg Cake Kit offers both experienced and would be bakers all the tools required to make a range of delicious Easter treats in a matter of minutes. From mouth-watering cupcakes, muffins or loaf cake, the Chocolate Egg Cake Kit can be used to create them all.
...Read MoreInterior Design: Moroccan inspired drawers
Supplies: Rust-Oleum Chalky Finish Furniture Paint 125ml- Winter Grey Rust-Oleum Chalky Finish Furniture Paint 125ml- Silver Rust-Oleum Finishing Wax 125ml- Silver Brush Sanding pads Old rag
...Read MoreBR remembered... 70 years on
Britain's railway network used to be a vast adventure playground for my group of friends during our teenage trainspotting expeditions. in the Sixties we scaled signals and bridges, climbed into goods and wagons. put coins on the tracks... it was daft and dangerous but we were young and had to find something to do during lulls between trains.
...Read MoreA gentleman's guide to spring fashion
Spring is a time for new beginnings so, this year, why not bring some fresh ideas into your wardrobe? There's a commonly help misconception that older men should avoid the world of high fashion. On the contrary, however as we grow old we often become more comfortable in our own skin, and develop a better understanding of our personal taste ans style.
...Read MoreWhy antique jewellery is glittering
The rise in sales of antique jewellery can be seen as a knee jerk reaction to mass consumerism, with a need for products which are individual and out of the ordinary. These days women are more interested in buying good-quality iconic pieces that are one-offs and not mass-produced.
...Read MoreNew Year, new beauty habits
Pick the right cleanser Your skin is only as goof as the cleanser you use. Get it right and your complexion should always look dewy and fresh; choose the wrong cleanser and you could end up with dry, dull-looking skin or, worse still, blemish prone if bacteria and sebum are allowed o clog pores.
...Read MoreCliff Richard "I have a deeper faith now"
The past three years have been trying ones for Sir Cliff Richard. Not only was he the subject of sexual abuse allegations, but worse, was subject to the indignity of having a police search of his home relayed live on the BBC. Which rather made a mockery of that cornerstone of British justice; innocent until proven guilty.
...Read MoreDo you remember? Oliver!
At first sight Charles Dickens' novel Oliver Twist was not the most obvious choice for a thigh-slapping, high-kicking, glitzy musical. Its story of workhouse deprivation homelessness, criminality and murder would surely have had even the likes of Richard Curtis struggling to find a feelgood factor. and then there was the thorny question of antisemitism.
...Read MoreWhat we really look for in retirement living
UK now has 11.8 million over 65s (Age UK) 85% of those aged 70+ prioritise adaptations to their existing home (Silk Road) Number of centenarians up 65% in past 10 years (Age UK) Cost and healthcare facilities are top priorities for retirement home living (Silk Road)
...Read MoreInterior Design: Wedding bells on a budget
Pallet Signs When we got married in April this year we had three separate pallet signs (and then half a pallet sign for directions!) which were so easy to make and I've heard of friends spending a small fortune on professionals doing it for them! Here's how it's done. You will need: A tester pot of off-white paint or leftover white paint,
...Read MoreCounter culture: The revival of the board game
Board games were once a vital part of a family Christmas; not only were they centrepiece of any young child's stocking, bit also an enjoyable way to while away post-turkey Christmas evenings in the company of your nearest and dearest. For a while it seemed to board game was fast becoming a thing of the past, with those battered boxes of Risk, Monopoly and Cluedo destined to spend he rest of their days marooned in the attic as the console became king.
...Read MoreJodie Whittaker: "Doctor Who is all about change"
Ever since Doctor Who returned in 2005, the announcement of a new actor to play the lead role has always been a major television event, and is year was no exception, with fans of the Time Lord having to wai until the conclusion of the Wimbledon men's final for the latest big reveal.
...Read More85 year old Grandmother gains a PhD
Dr Anne Latto received her doctorate in Storytelling from the University of Reading, 36 years after she first graduated from the same university with an undergraduate degree in film and drama. In the years since that first achievement, the grandmother of five has since gained an MA in Film and Drama, an MPhil in Film and an MA in Cognitive Evolution.
...Read MoreDame Eileen and a Crowning glory
Dame Eileen Atkins does not demur when I suggest that the sumptuous TV series The Crown, in which she plays Queen Mary, would have once been the centrepiece of the BBC schedules. That the show, which aims to tell the story of the life and reign of The Queen has been made by the Netflix streaming service, is a sign of the times, it;s reported £130 million budget being now beyond the reach of the public broadcaster.
...Read MoreWriting the story of you life
Ever thought about writing your memoirs, but unsure of how to go about it? Well, I did, and I'd like to share my experience with Choice readers who are interested in chronicling their life experiences for posterity- and recording a written account of their journey through life. Towards he end of my full time employment, I found myself with time on my hands, waiting at airports as part of my global travels.
...Read MoreWhy winter shouldn't stop you: don't wait until New Year
Sarah Gazard, Senior Community Living Advisor at MHA Wellesley Court
...Read MoreWorld' first 'wellness shed' stirs up mindfulness
Can slowly stirring a pot of steaming hot soup really calm a chaotic commute? That's the premise behind the world's first 'wellness shed' pop-up from GLORIOUS! Soups which is launching in Shoreditch on October 19th.
...Read MoreGrowing old is amazing
She was once known as pop's 'barefoot princess', but 50 years on from winning the 1967 Eurovision- which turned out to be, at best, a mixed blessing- Sandie Shaw is now happy to spend her time helping people in the arts cope with the pressures of fame. No one would seem to be better qualified for such a role than Sandie, who was catapulted to game at the age of 17 only to find herself, some ten years later, working as a waitress to pay off her debts.
...Read MoreDon't miss out on the internet age
Another round of bank branch closures has been announced in recent months. The banks' argument, as they leave customers the wrong side of the bolted front doors, is that more people are handling their banking online. It's a familiar message. Last year, the Office for National Statistics reported that 89% of all households in Britain had internet access (it was 57% 10 years ago). More than four-fifths of us (41 million people) use the internet daily or almost daily.
...Read MorePrepare to feel ancient...
The UK's leading childcare website discovered that a fifth of children think the sound of dial up internet is a Dalek from Doctor Who, two fifths mistake an overhead projector for an x-ray machine and a quarter think a vinyl record is a Frisbee. The survey was distributed through the platform's database of parents and providers and produced some interesting and hilarious insights.
...Read MoreHawks: Up close and personal
With a whoosh of near silent wings, the Eagle Owl swooped low over the audience, heading right for me, missing by a foot on its way to perch on one side of the arena with a haughty shake of its feathers. It was the first of a series of low-level passes by various birds of prey at the Hawk Conservancy Trust near Andover, Hampshire,, and just one of the ways you get to see these magnificent bird up close.
...Read MoreStudious retiree heads back to school
Archie MacDonald, a resident at MHA Auchlochan in South Lanarkshire, shows it's not just youngsters heading back to school the September, as he continues studying for a masters in computing.
...Read MoreGarden Expert: Soaking up the sun
July often feels like the height of summer and the holiday season. For me, a day spent in the garden enjoying glorious sunshine is as much of a holiday as an exotic beach break, with the bonus of being able to tend to plants and complete jobs around the garden.
...Read MoreEmily Watson "I'ts such a gypsy life"
There was a time when just about the only roles in film and television available to women of a certain age were nuns, grannies, stern maiden aunts or eccentric nannies. Emily Watson is one of a generation of actresses who have proved that sexuality needn’t end with the menopause and although she’s rather more reluctant to disrobe than in her younger days, at the age of 50 she still relishes playing sexually voracious women, as she did, to great effect, in the recent TV drama Apple Tree Yard.
...Read MoreHere's to you Mrs Robinson
FEW FILMS have managed to capture their era as effectively as The Graduate. Released in late 1967, amidst the turmoil of the Vietnam War, the sexual revolution and an ever-widening generation gap, Mike Nichols’ film came at just the right time for an America that was having to ask serious questions about itself.
...Read MoreBrits Embracing 'Urban Birding'
Sales of wildlife cams rise as Brits try to get closer to nature 1 in 3 admit to spying on birds and wildlife Alex Zane, Guy Garvey, Damon Albarn amongst celebrity ‘urban birders’ Affordable new tech is giving way to a new generation of 'urban birders' who are making twitching cool again.
...Read MoreVolunteering for Nature
THE LOVE of nature can cross many barriers, including a divide of more than 90 years between the youngest and the oldest RSPB volunteers. Elizabeth Nelson is a 96-year-old nature lover who volunteers every Saturday in the visitor centre at RSPB Minsmere, Suffolk. “I am responsible for organising the pin badges and do little odd jobs around the visitor centre, like folding and preparing leaflets,” says Elizabeth, known as ‘Betty’ to her colleagues.
...Read MoreThe Secret to Younger Looking Eyes
DHC Rich Eye Zone Care Pack 6 masks Pamper your eyes with the DHC Rich Eye Zone Care Pack, a total eye mask treatment that will revitalise and deeply hydrate the delicate eye area. Enriched with multipeptides to support collagen, olive fruit to intensely hydrate and hyaluronic acid to protect skin’s natural barrier, the Rich Eye Zone Care Pack is a one way ticket to a smoother, more radiant-looking eye area.
...Read MoreAnti-ageing Options Part 2
This simple yet brilliant product lets you increase the interval between salon appointments. Just part your hair in the usual way, then brush the colour along the visible roots and temples. Ten minutes later rinse off and all grey is covered; always do a patch test first.
...Read MoreAnti-ageing Options
While I agree with many of the concerns people have about the pressure on women to look younger, I also think it’s perfectly natural to want to look as youthful as you feel inside. I see no problem with seeking to restore the natural glow of your 20s, even if that means exploiting the use of good skincare, treatments and makeup.
...Read MoreEnd of the road for a pop icon
It has never been easy being a Simon and Garfunkel fan. I know, am one. Admitting you admired their music was not something you did in fashionable company, or at least at my boarding school. They didn’t fit the Seventies fashion for glam, disco, punk, hard rock or Eighties style over substance, and during the Nineties they seemed to disappear altogether.
...Read MoreReaching out to Dementia Sufferers: Sporting Memories Network
Almost half (48 per cent) said that what would help them most to stay connected was seeing family and friends more often, and having someone to help them take part in activities and hobbies (51 per cent). The Alzheimer’s Society survey highlighted the importance of meaningful activities for those who are living with dementia.
...Read MoreAre you ready for retirement?
Many of us dream for years about retirement, yet when it turns into reality, it’s not always the paradise we expect it to be. Psychologist Linda Blair says she’s been seeing more patients recently who are having difficulty adjusting emotionally to this new phase in their life.
...Read MoreAfternoon Tea Recipes
Doves Farm has shared three classic tea recipes for Victoria Sponge Sandwich, Lemon Drizzle Cake and Wholemeal Scones served with Rhubarb Jam Compote. Afternoon tea is a true British icon, which makes Doves Farm the perfect baking partner for the occasion. Founded in 1978, the British, family-owned organic flour and food producer celebrates 40 years of baking brilliance this year.
...Read MoreSurprisingly Good Wholegrain Recipes: Savoury
Getting wholegrain foods such as oats, wholemeal bread and brown rice into your diet has never been easier and this selection of brand new recipes will liven up any meal time. Wholegrain foods are typically low in fat, as well as being higher in fibre to help maintain a healthy digestive system. They also add a whole lot of flavour to dishes too. This 2 part piece wil introduce you to some of the great ways to use wholegrain in both savoury and sweet dishes.
...Read MoreStaying safe in the Summer heat: Drowning prevention
It has appealed to people to take note of simple safety messages to avoid a repeat of last summer’s tragedies when many people lost their lives cooling off in open water, not suitable for swimming. Being a grandparent often means having your grandchildren come and stay with you for a few days during the Summer holidays. During these months, it is more improtant than ever to be aware around water and make sure that your loved ones are swimming only where it is safe and suitabel to do so.
...Read MoreStardust Memories
In a career spanning more than 45 years Tony Palmer has developed a reputation as one of our most distinguished documentary makers, with a body of work ranging from highly acclaimed portraits of the composers Holst, Vaughan Williams and Wagner to documentaries in the field of pop, literature, sport and even space.
...Read MoreBaking made easy
In her new book, Annie Bell’s Baking Bible (Kyle Books, £25), food writer Annie Bell explains the techniques that produce perfect baking every time, be it sponge cakes, biscuits, brownies, tray bakes, fairy cakes, macaroons, muffins or meringues.
...Read MoreCooking for one
A recent survey of 1200 over-60s showed most of them didn’t trust the present government to help them through the ravages of the financial recession. According to Age UK – the merged charities Age Concern and Help the Aged – many of the respondents were taking extreme measures to cope, some of which put their health at risk.
...Read MoreThe real cost of your wine
Barely a week goes by without my wife exclaiming after a trip to the supermarket: “Look how much packaging there is in this box.” It’s usually followed up with: “This could be half the price if it was just in a bag and not a box.” Ironically, even though she is as much a wine lover as I am, she never airs the same disparaging views while uncorking a bottle of wine. And she would never extol the virtues of a box over a bottle where wine is concerned either.
...Read MoreCurrent Issue
What's new
Walks by the sea
Fred Olsen's Cruise lines for 2025
Christmas books reviews
DVD reviews
Doctor Who
Our new website - Enjoy Britain online www.enjoybritainonline.co.uk/
New CD releases
Discover Knightsbridge, London
Birdwatching and more
Subscriptions hotline: 01778 392029 (quote code CH13)
Subscriptions email: subscriptions@warnersgroup.co.uk
Choice Magazine, 4 Milnyard Square, Orton Southgate, Peterborough PE2 6GXSubscriptions email: subscriptions@warnersgroup.co.uk
01733 363484 | editorial@choicemag.co.uk
© 2024 Choice Publishing Limited | Company Registration Number: 4368506