Family Life Magazine

E E FR

WINTER 2016

www.familylifemagazine.co.uk

SCOTLAND’S FAMILY-FRIENDLY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

FESTIVE FINANCE

Keeping your cashflow in check for the season ahead

Win

a break to Stobo Castle Health Spa

The best Christmas markets Check out our guide

WE ARE FAMILY

Five Scots tell us what family means to them

STAYING WARM THIS WINTER

How to heat your home affordably this season

CHRISTMAS ALL WRAPPED UP

From gifts to days out, we’ve got the festive season covered

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JAMIE OLIVER

Recipes from the TV chef’s latest collection

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SCOTLAND’S LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

PUBLISHER Denise Connelly denise@dcpublishing.co.uk EDITOR Lindsay Cochrane lindsay.cochrane@dcpublishing.co.uk STAFF WRITER Kirsty McKenzie kirsty.mckenzie@dcpublishing.co.uk EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Shannon McGarrity DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Lucy Baillie lucy.baillie@dcpublishing.co.uk SALES Scott Kyle scott.kyle@dcpublishing.co.uk PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Lisa McCabe lisa.mccabe@dcpublishing.co.uk FAMILY LIFE MAGAZINE www.familylifemagazine.co.uk

Hello, and welcome to the winter issue of Family Life!

I

t’s been a couple of years since Family Life has been in circulation, but after some time away from the spotlight, a bit of primping and preening (you’ve got to look your best after all – especially for party season), we’re back with a bang – and just in time for Christmas.

We’ve got a proper festive feel going on this issue. From our Christmas gift list to our guide to Europe’s best festive markets, plus some amazing recipes from Jamie Oliver (including the ultimate solution for leftover turkey), you’ll be humming Jingle Bells before you know it.

Elsewhere, we’ve been offering some advice to help your funds go further over the season ahead, we’ve taken the time to give you 31 mini resolutions for January, plus we’ve got a roundup of the best in TV, film and beyond for winter. Don’t miss our What’s On guide either, packed with ideas to keep you and your loved ones entertained this season.

And if this isn’t enough, we have a fantastic competition for you too. You could be off to pamper yourself at Stobo Castle Health Spa in the new year.

Get entering on page 50!

We have absolutely loved putting our re-launch issue together – and I really hope you enjoy reading it.

Have a fabulous Christmas, and we’ll see you in 2017!

DC Publishing Ltd, 200 Bath Street, Glasgow, G2 4HG Tel: 0844 249 9007 Fax: 0141 353 0435

Lindsay Cochrane, Editor

PICTURE: DAVID LOFTUS

LOOK OUT FOR…

FamilyLifeScot

FamilyLifeScot

FamilyLifeScot

FamilyLifeScot

6 WHAT IS A FAMILY? A group of Scots share what family life means for them in 2016 – 2.4 children is apparently a thing of the past!

11 CONFESSIONS OF AN AIRBNB HOST One Glaswegian shares what it’s like to welcome strangers into your home as an alternative to hotels.

40 HOW HARMFUL IS YOUR BATHROOM CABINET? We put microbeads under the microscope – you’ll be rethinking your purchases.

©DC Publishing Ltd 2016. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or used in any way without prior written permission from the publisher. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of DC Publishing Ltd. The publisher takes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers within the publication. Every effort has been made to ensure that information is accurate; while dates and prices are correct at time of going to print, DC Publishing Ltd takes no responsibility for omissions and errors.

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What’s INSIDE 6 WHAT IS A FAMILY? In an ever-changing society, there’s no such thing as a typical family in Scotland today. Five families welcome us into their lives to show just how different things can be.

20 PICTURES MICHAL WACHUCIK/ABERMEDIA; DAVID LOFTUS

LIFE

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11 CONFESSIONS OF AN AIRBNB HOST Airbnb is offering travellers a more homely alternative to hotels. One host lifts the lid on her experience.

31 2017 HIT LIST If you’re fed up of making the same boring resolutions, try our 31 mini goals for January instead.

WIN

a break to Stobo Castle Health Spa on page 50

FOOD & DRINK 20 JAMIE OLIVER’S CHRISTMAS TV chef Jamie shares two recipes from his latest cookbook – including a solution for leftover turkey!

STYLE 14 CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE Struggling for prezzie inspiration?

We’ve got it covered in this issue’s gift guide.

HOUSE & HOME 28 TIPS FOR A WARMER WINTER With the cost of living soaring, the idea of paying your gas and electricity over the winter is enough to make your blood run cold. We take a look at how to stay warm affordably.

TRAVEL 17 THE BEST CHRISTMAS MARKETS Mulled wine, tasty street food, gifts galore – you can’t beat a Christmas market. We take a tour of Europe to find the very best.

FINANCE 23 THE 12 MONEY-SAVING TIPS OF CHRISTMAS No idea how you’ll get through the festive season with your finances in tact? Check out our handy advice to ease the strain.

HEALTH & BEAUTY

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Turn to page 50 to be in with a chance of winning a relaxing, luxurious break in Peebles.

40 HOW HARMFUL IS YOUR BATHROOM CABINET? With a ban on microbeads in the offing, we take a look at just how much damage they’re doing to the environment.

43 THE WELLNESS MOVEMENT UNCOVERED These days, people are all gluten free, eat clean, anti-sugar… But just how good for you is it? We find out.

ENTERTAINMENT 35 THE PANTO QUEEN As Scotland’s First Lady of Pantomime, actress Elaine C Smith takes some time out from rehearsals to talk about her busy year.

37 THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT We round up the best in TV, film, books and music for the months ahead.

45 WHAT’S ON? We take a look at the best events and entertainment for the winter months across Scotland. From theatre to comedy, we’ve got it covered.

CAREERS 26 IN GOOD COMPANY Three Sisters Bake co-founder Gillian Reith shares how she gave up her job to set up a booming business with her sisters.

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26 Family Life - Winter 2016

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WHAT IS A

They say that no two are alike – after all, what would be the fun in that? Families come in all shapes and sizes and we want to celebrate them all in the pages of our magazine.

So we asked five Scottish families to tell us what family life means to them.

Here’s what they had to say…

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THE SOUL MATES

Gary Lynass, 35, and Phil Fraser, 44, met while on a blind date – with other people.

“Neither of us was too enamoured with our date,” laughs Phil. “By chance, we met each other at the bar and got chatting about how badly our nights were going.

We instantly got on and decided to ditch our dates and enjoy each other’s company elsewhere. We like to imagine that our ditched dates bumped into each other and are living happily ever after somewhere else!”

Eight years on, Gary and Phil now live together with their two dogs Barney and Lara, and all four love to pack their bags and leave Glasgow for European driving adventures.

“We regularly pack the car and head off to the Netherlands, Belgium, France and Spain,” says Gary. “I think the dogs are even getting a wee French accent.”

But for now, they are looking forward to

settling down at home this Christmas.

“Family is a huge part of our life,” says Gary. “We love to host Christmas and it’s one of our favourite times of the year.” Phil agrees: “Gary always brings the party; his personality is bigger than our mortgage! Life is so much more spontaneous with a Gary in it.”

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LIFE

THE SINGLE DAD

Find out more about support for one-parent families from One Parent Families Scotland at www.opfs.org.uk

Sean Fitzharris, a 52-year-old former prisoner, now acts as full-time carer to his young son Malcolm.

Ten years ago, while Sean was serving time in prison, Malcolm was born with neonatal abstinence syndrome following his mum’s substance abuse during her pregnancy. Nine years later, Malcolm was diagnosed with autism.

“It’s becoming more acceptable to be a single dad,” says Sean who fought for sole custody of Malcolm for eight years. “But there is still a lot of bias out there because, historically, it’s a woman who looks after the children. Someone said to me once that single mums get a raw deal because mums can get lumped with a reputation, whereas single dads get a pat on the back. That may be the case in public, but when it comes to the authorities, it can be a different story.”

One group that was a source of constant support for Sean was One Parent Families Scotland. “They’ve had been with me all the way through, even before Malcolm’s diagnosis,” says Sean.

“They assisted me through children’s panels, hearings and custody battles – I could always rely on them for help.”

The group also allowed him to meet other single dads, and now the men

meet with their kids every Saturday to play and chat.

“The biggest challenge about being a single dad is making sure I get everything right for him. I went to parenting classes initially and I still learn a lot from other parents,” says Sean.

Sean now runs his own class called Mad Cooking, aimed at lone parents and their children in Edinburgh, to get together and get cooking. ‘’Malcolm loves it – pizza is his favourite, and he knows how to make it from scratch with his own sauce now.”

Away from the kitchen, Malcolm also acts as the road safety person at school and has even started his own chess club. “He’s very bright,” says Sean. “He wants to make computer games when he grows up. He’s a very happy child and he makes me very proud to be a single dad.”

It’s becoming more acceptable to be a single dad – but there is still a lot of bias

THE CHARITY FUNDRAISERS Just four days into her new job, Edinburgh mum-of-one Hazel Orr found a lump.

“It was a shock as I had no history of cancer in the family,” says Hazel. “I don’t think I was in a position to take everything in or ask the right questions.

My husband Paul was the one who asked when the treatment would start and I think it hit home for both of us when the breast surgeon opened his diary and said he would be able to operate the following Friday.”

Julie’s 11-year-old daughter Holly also proved to be a huge source of support. Last year, Holly raised money for Macmillan by selling wristbands and organising a dance-athon at school.

And now the whole family has caught the fundraising bug – Hazel’s brother and brother-in-law ran the Edinburgh marathon, and her sister has held fundraising Christmas fairs to raise money for the charity.

“I feel extremely proud and humbled by the lengths my family have gone to, to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support and various other cancer charities. I think that while they were supporting me, they wanted to give something back for the way I was being

looked after by the Macmillan nurses.”

But Hazel admits that learning to let her family support her when she needed it most was a big learning curve. “I’ve learned to accept help when it’s offered – don’t try to do everything on your

own. We may be super mums but we’re not superhuman!”

Find out more about Macmillan Cancer Support’s work at www.macmillan.org.uk.

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THE FOSTER CARERS

your child and you expect there to be challenges along the way.

But when they have a disability, your role becomes much, much more than you ever imagined.”

Despite the challenges, Julie is passionate about building carerfriendly communities through social media and her work with Carers UK. But above all, family is what matters to Julie most.

“They’re the people who accept you no matter who you are – there’s no hatred or judgment,” says Julie. “The love of a family should be unconditional, and everyone should try their best to provide all they can for the people in their family, emotionally and financially.

Accepting difference in a family unit is all we can ask for.”

PICTURES IAIN MCLEAN

Single mum Julie, from Renfrewshire, cares for her teenage son, Lewis, who has drug-resistant epilepsy, cerebral palsy and autism, around the clock.

When he was only six years old, Lewis needed major brain surgery to try and manage his epilepsy, and Julie spent years travelling with him from Scotland to London to seek treatment.

While Julie knows that Lewis is happy, the physical and emotional demands of caring have taken a toll on her own health. “When Lewis had his surgery, I suffered terribly. There just wasn’t time for me to think about me. There still isn’t,” admits Julie. “When you become a parent, you expect to care for

For information and support for carers, contact Carers UK – www.carersuk.org.

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Get more information on Edinburgh Fostering at www.edinburghfostering.org.uk.

Both Lana and I have big families – so we are used to lots of stress!

*Name changed

THE CARER

Janine Restorick, 26, started providing respite care for children with complex needs and disabilities when she was only 18 years old.

Since marrying Lana last year, she’s now also a full-time mum to Lana’s biological daughter Bailey and their foster child Jack*.

“Jack came from a very bad background – there are no words to describe what he’s been through,” explains Janine. “His behaviour was really bad, and he wasn’t doing well at school because he wouldn’t do anything the teachers told him.”

But since moving in with Lana and Janine three months ago, Jack hasn’t had a single bad report. “His behaviour is so much better,” says Janine. “He’s affectionate and cuddly – a completely different boy.”

At only nine years old, Jack has already been in and out of seven foster homes, but Janine hopes his stay with them will be his last. And the football-mad family have already planned to take Jack on his first holiday abroad this Christmas.

“To us, family is the most important thing,” says Janine. “Both Lana and I have big families so we are used to lots of stress! I know we’ve only had Jack for three months but he already feels like part of our family. And you stick with family no matter what.”

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Foster with Barnardo’s Scotland and help to change a child’s life.

Check out local events in your area on the Barnardos Scotland Fostering & Adoption Facebook page.

Upcoming event Barnardos Information Evening on 24th November from 17.00 -19.00 at Rose & Grants 116 Drymen Road Glasgow G61 3RA Get in touch today 0845 894 9501 barnardos.org.uk/fostering

Registered Charity Nos.216250 and SC037605 18353az16

I do it, you can too.

Find out about a career in Fostering at our monthly drop-in events: 5-7pm, first Thursday of every month at Waverley Court, Edinburgh EH8 8BG.

0800 174 833

www.edinburgh.gov.uk/fostering

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Care for the Family

Here to support you in the ups and downs of everyday family life with top tips and practical advice through our online articles and podcasts.

Supporting couples, equipping parents & comforting bereaved people ‌ because family life matters.

0131 600 0150

/scotlandcff

@CFFScotland

www.careforthefamily.org.uk

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on e ons

LIFE

OF AN AIRBNB HOST

It’s the travel trend that’s changed the face of vacationing – but what’s it really like to use Airbnb? One host shares her story

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ince clicking the ‘host’ icon on Airbnb’s website a couple of months ago, my life has transformed. At home I’m no longer just a writer, girlfriend and living room yoga enthusiast. I’m now a chambermaid, laundress and cleaner, forever in a cycle of washing up, changing sheets and wiping down the bathtub. I am an Airbnb hostess.

In the months since graduating, money has been tight. But the idea of working nights in a bar after my busy day job filled me with dread. When my boyfriend suggested we try and make money from our spare room it was a lightbulb moment – rather than having to deal with an odd flatmate crowding our space, we’d make almost double by renting our room occasionally to complete strangers.

Most guests request one night, maybe a Friday or Saturday – a place to crash while they visit friends in the city. We charge £45 a night for a single guest and £65 for two. Not bad for a bed in Glasgow’s trendy West End – especially when the hotel two minutes down the road charges £229 a night.

Our first guests were so busy I didn’t even get the chance to meet them.

They arrived, dumped their bags, went out to party and had checked out by the time I returned from my morning spin class. Result.

The next pair were a little more tricky. Two Indonesian students with an accommodation mix up who needed a place to stay before their university term started. They were polite, quiet and sweet. But ten days is long enough. They left the toilet seat up, slept with the bedroom light on, cooked full feasts of chicken and beef

at seven in the morning and asked to put the heating on in August. And my God, did they go through loo paper.

Overall, though, I enjoyed meeting new people, learning about their home country and sharing jokes over cultural mix-ups. I learned to share my space; they learned to deal with me roaming the flat with wet hair and no makeup.

One night before going out to meet friends, I popped my head into the kitchen to say goodnight. “You look beautiful,” one visitor exclaimed, seeing my made-up face for the first time. His friend nodded feverishly: “Oh yes, what a transformation!”

Who knows if they were talking about my new lipstick or my hosting skills? Not that I have time to worry about that – if you’ll excuse me, I have another Airbnb request coming through…

GET A ROOM

Whether you ar e hosting or visi ting, here’s what you need to know

✽ Airbnb has 1.5 million users in 34,000 cities and 191 countries worldwide, rentin g out their spare rooms or whole properties as a homely alternat ive to hotels. ✽ Airbnb has a Ho st Guarantee that provides pr otection for up to £600,000 in dam ages, wherever you are in the world .

✽ Travellers pay a guest service fe e of 6-12% on top of the reservation an d Airbnb takes a 3% service fee from the host for each tra nsaction. ✽ Before you acce pt a host or gues t, make sure you se e their verified documents, exch ange messages and read their re views.

FIND OUT MORE For more information on letting out your home or a room through Airbnb, head to www.airbnb.co.uk.

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LIFE

DESTRESS

YOUR KIDS

When it comes to helping your kid during revision time, do you want an A+? Janey Downshire, expert and author of Teenagers Translated, offers some tips

BE INTERESTED BUT NOT INVESTED Helping your child to feel less overwhelmed is a huge part of your job as a parent – but try to resist the urge to take over. The more the parent is invested, the less the teenager will be motivated.

After all, why would they do their homework if you’re doing it for them? Teenagers need to feel ownership and take responsibility for their own workload. Still want to help? Remember, says Janey, that calmness is contagious. “A teenage brain learns how to react and respond by imbibing and mirroring the reactions of important adults,” she says. Showing your child how you confront a difficult task or deal with failure is far more helpful than taking over their revision schedule.

“Exercise acts as a good antidote to stress, increasing levels of good chemicals like endorphins and dopamine”

Get them moving Janey explains that kids need to move to boost areas of the brain responsible for motivation, engagement and memory.

“Exercise acts as a good antidote to stress, increasing levels of good chemicals like endorphins and dopamine,” she says.

“The cumulative effect of this is to boost mental and physical health and build resilience to other pressures and stresses.”

Encourage your child to take a break and do one active thing a day, whether it’s 10 minutes on the trampoline or walking with you to the shops.

TURN OFF SCREENS AN HOUR BEFORE BED “Most children need around nine hours uninterrupted sleep so that their brain can feel restored and rested,” says Janey. Teenagers nowadays use electronics late into the night and are disturbed by their phones while asleep. Constant screen time stops the mind from switching off and interferes with melatonin levels. “Mood swings, behaviour, mental health and wellbeing are all negatively impacted by prolonged periods of poor quality sleep,” warns Janey. Try encouraging your teen to go to bed at a reasonable time and remove screens from their room at least an hour before sleep.

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KEEP THEM MINDFUL Try downloading a mindfulness app like Headspace on to your son or daughter’s phone to help them switch off, find balance and learn how to manage their emotions. “Not making the mark will fuel anxiety, stress and fear of failure,” explains Janey. “But learning to be more mentally aware of what causes emotional stress helps people to avoid difficult situations.”

Take the pressure off Don’t tell kids that their entire future relies on their grades – they already hear plenty of that at school.

Instead make your home a calm and comforting environment where creativity, manners and teamwork are valued just as highly as grades. “It is very helpful for a child to receive honest and deserved feedback because this will help them feel intrinsically motivated,” says Janey.

Reminding teens that their other skills are of just as much importance will help them to keep perspective and feel less panicked.

FIND OUT MORE Go to www.teenagerstranslated.co.uk for more tips on how to help your teen.

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hr t as Gift G ts �r

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The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid + B5, £5.90 (www.ordinaries.com)

Hush love jumper, £79 (www.johnlewis.com)

Hotel Chocolat festive chest, £150 (www.hotelchocolat.com)

The White Company Winter signature candle, £20 (www.thewhitecompany.com)

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Star Wars heat-changing mug, £12.50 (www.marksandspencer.com)

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The Night Of, £21.99 (www.amazon.co.uk)

Apple Watch Nike+, £369 (www.apple.com/uk)

Six cup cafetière coffee maker, £15 (www.marksandspencer.com)

The New York Times: 36 Hours 125 Weekends in Europe by Barbara Ireland, £24.99 (www.waterstones.com)

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STYLE

Guide

Need a helping hand with this year’s Christmas shopping? We’ve rounded up a bit of inspiration to help you

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Pie Face Showdown, £21.99 (www.argos.co.uk)

Science Museum astronaut bed set, £55 (www.sciencemuseumshop.co.uk)

Oliver Bonas diplodocus rattle, £12 (www.oliverbonas.com)

Glitter wellies, £12 (www.marksandspencer.com)

Hatchimals Owlicorn egg, £60 (www.toysrus.com)

URBANEARS Humlan headphones, £39 (www.urbanears.com)

Adidas Originals black suede Gazelle trainers, £74.99 (www.office.co.uk)

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Fujifilm Instax Mini camera, £64.95 (www.johnlewis.com)

Superdrug ‘Tanya Presents’ Beauty Box, £30 (www.superdrug.com)

Gingerbread man jumper, £39 (www.topshop.com)

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Festive fun for all the family!

Santa La nd

nts Free Eve

Rides

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18 November - 7 January edinburghschristmas.com

Ice sk atin Andr ew Sq g

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TRAVEL

OF THE BEST

We round up the best festive fairs on offer across Europe

MARKETS

T

winkling lights, mulled wine on tap, a huge array of handmade gifts, chestnuts o sting on n o en fi e Nothing quite beats the magic of a Christmas market. As the festive season approaches, cities across Europe will be lit up with festive cheer, with little wooden chalets lining the streets packed with Christmassy treats for all the family. From food to gift ideas, you’re spoiled for choice with these Yultide markets. Whether you’re after something close to home or fu the field we e ounded u the markets worth checking out throughout Europe this Christmas.

n ur h

Scotland’s capital is pretty m gnifi ent t the est of times ut it’s even more special in the twinkle of fairy lights at Christmastime.

Edinburgh is also home to two markets – the traditional European Christmas Market in East Princes Street Gardens, which opens on 19 November and packs up on 7 January, and the Scottish Market on George Street, which is in place from 26 November until Christmas Eve. You’ll get a mix of hand-crafted gifts, beautiful festive decorations and some incredible hot food to keep you going as you shop!

INFO www.edinburghs christmas.com GETTING THERE Trains run regularly into Edinburgh’s city centre station, Edinburgh Waverly.

Check out routes and times at www.scotrail.co.uk.

This year, Glasgow (pictured above) will play host to two different Christmas markets – one in St Enoch Square, and one in George Square

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From 17 November to 29 December, Birmingham’s famous festive market is a magical experience – and it’s the biggest German market outside of Germany and Austria. Situated in Victoria Square, New Street and Centenary Square, it’s nice and central – and has plenty of features not to be missed beyond the usual food and gifts, including Chris the singing moose, Carols in the City, daily band performances and a picturesque merry-go-round.

Head to Scotland’s biggest city for some festive cheer this Christmas!

The city centre hosts two markets – one in St Enoch Square, which ahs been running from 10 November, and the other in George Square, which will open on 26 November.

Whether you’re after a warming glass of mulled wine, gift inspiration or simply a day out to get you in the festive spirit, Glasgow has it all – and ou n finish u ou sho ing on the city’s Style Mile afterwards!

INFO www.germanchristmas marketbirmingham.com

INFO www.glasgowloveschristmas.com and www.marketplaceeurope.co.uk

GETTING THERE Fly direct to i mingh m f om l sgow with from as little as £35.99 one way www e om

e

GETTING THERE Trains run regularly to Glasgow’s main train stations – from all corners of the country. Check timetables at www.scotrail.co.uk.

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TRAVEL

For a traditional European experience, get yourself to the Belgian capital. From 25 November to 1 January, Plaisirs d’Hiver/Winter Pret (translated as ‘Pleasures of Winter’) is a fantastically festive festival, with a nightly light and sound show at the Grand Palace, and market surrounding the Bourse (Stock Exchange) and along the Place Sainte Catherine. The market boasts over 200 wooden chalets which house vendors from around the world, selling everything from pretty decorations to Belgian w f es elgium is f mous fo its chocolate and beer, and both are on offer in abundance – don’t miss them. Get even more Christmassy with a ride on the 160-foot Ferris wheel followed by a whirl round the 8,000-square foot ice rink.

INFO www.winterwonders.be GETTING THERE Fly from Edinburgh to Brussels with Ryanair with one w ights f om s little s £14.99.

ter a

Amsterdam doesn’t have just one Christmas market, but 26! These markets sprawl right across the city and into the suburbs. The Christmas market snack of choice while in the Netherlands has to be olibollen, tasty Dutch dougnuts. If you’re in the city during December, make sure to check out the Amsterdam Light Festival, which sees the sky above the city’s canals lit up like the Northern Lights.

INFO www.iamsterdam.com GETTING THERE Fly from Glasgow to Amsterdam with easyJet from £27.49 one way in December.

Amsterdam lights up at Christmas

Brussels’ Plaisirs d’Hiver is a truly traditional experience

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In Hamburg, the Christmas-ometer is off the chart. With lots of lights, multiple markets and picturesque parades on Sundays during advent, it’s pretty much as festive as Santa’s workshop. Hamburg adopts a real fairy tale feel over the festive period, whi h sees tou ists o king k e after year. The majority of the city’s markets kick off on 23 November – so book your trip now.

Lille is a fantastic city, taking the best of Belgian and French culture – and it’s only an hour and 22 minutes on the Eurostar from London! The main market is set up in the city’s Place Rihour, with 80 stalls and an 18-metre high Christmas tree transforming the main square into a winter wonderland.

Shops in the city compete to offer the most creative festive window display – prepare to be wowed!

INFO www.hamburg-travel.com

INFO en.lilletourism.com

GETTING THERE You can get to Hamburg from Glasgow from £69.99 one way with Eurowings (www.eurowings.com)

GETTING THERE You can take the Eurostar from London’s St Pancras to Lille for as little as £99 return in December.

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Germany is the country most often associated with Christmas markets – and they certainly don’t disappoint.

In Dusseldorf, you’ve got a selection of different markets to choose from, including the art nouveau Engelchen market and the old fashioned stalls t the town h ll ou ll find mo e than 230 Christmas stalls selling a massive range of artisan goods, and a 450-metre square ice rink – pop on your skates and get in the spirit!

Top it all off with a mug of warming Glüwein and some Bratwurst.

INFO www.germany.travel GETTING THERE Fly to Dusseldorf from Glasgow from £34.99 with Eurowings (www.eurowings.com).

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e

Dusseldorf is a great option for a truly European experience

PICTURES : CHRISTMAS MARKETS / ERIC DANHIER / SIEHE BILDQUELLE/DÜSSELDORF MARKETING & TOURISMUS GMBH

ru els

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Jamie Oliver’s

CHRISTMAS TV chef Jamie shares some tasty recipes from his latest festive-themed collection

CHOCOLATE LOG Sweet chestnut purée, honeyed cream & crushed honeycomb filling This Yule log brings back loads of happy memories for me – it was one of the first desserts I ever made as a kid, at Christmas time, of course! This is my slightly more grown-up version, which is really good fun to make and decorate.

SERVES 12-14 TOTAL TIME: 1 HOUR, PLUS COOLING SPONGE 4 large free-range eggs 75g icing sugar, plus extra for dusting 75g self-raising flour 2 tablespoons quality cocoa powder 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste 2 tablespoons caster sugar FILLING 1 x 250g tin of sweetened chestnut purée 1 pinch of ground cinnamon 200ml double cream 1 tablespoon runny honey 1 Crunchie bar BUTTERCREAM 150g quality dark chocolate (70%) 150g unsalted butter (at room temperature) 150g icing sugar

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Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/ gas 4. For the sponge, line a 25cm x 30cm baking tray with greaseproof paper. Separate the eggs. In an electric mixer, whisk the egg whites to stiff peaks with a pinch of sea salt. Gradually whisk in the icing sugar, then, one-by-one, whisk in the egg yolks until really pale and light. Sift in the flour and cocoa powder, add the vanilla bean paste, then fold everything together with a large metal spoon so you keep in as much air as possible. Spoon the mixture into the lined tray, gently and evenly spread it out, then bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until just cooked through and springy to the touch.

Place a large sheet of greaseproof paper (35cm x 45cm) on a flat surface and evenly sprinkle over the caster sugar from a height.

While it’s still hot and flexible, turn the sponge out on to the paper.

Peel off and discard the baked piece of greaseproof. With one of the longest sides in front of you, fold up the excess paper, then roll up the sponge with the paper inside (as it cools, this will set the shape but prevent the sponge from cracking). Leave to cool.

For the filling, mix the chestnut purée and cinnamon together. In a separate bowl, whisk the cream to soft peaks, then fold in the honey.

To assemble, unroll the sponge so it’s flat, removing the paper. Spread all over with the chestnut purée, followed by the cream, then smash and sprinkle over the Crunchie bar or honeycomb. Re-roll and pop into the fridge. Meanwhile, make

CALORIES

FAT

SAT FAT

PROTEIN

CARBS

SUGARS

SALT

FIBRE

397kcal

25g

14.7g

5.1g

39.7g

31.3g

0.2g

2.3g

your buttercream.

Melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pan of gently simmering water, then remove and leave to cool. Beat the butter in an electric mixer until pale, then, with the mixer still running, gradually add the icing sugar and cool melted chocolate.

Take the log out of the fridge, chop off a quarter at an angle –

that’s the branch – and position it on your serving board like in the picture, using a splodge of buttercream to keep it in place.

Evenly cover the whole log with buttercream, then use a fork to decorate it. Dust with extra icing sugar and a pinch of sea salt, shaved chocolate, sprinkles, plastic Bambi figures, whatever you like – go to town!

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FOOD & DRINK

TURKEY STEW Sweet leek & smoky bacon biscuit dumplings This is a super-easy, old-school dish that uses leftover turkey or chicken in a brilliant way. As a kid I made it with dumplings, but when I was in the USA they would top stews with these lovely biscuits, so this is my hybrid of the two.

SERVES 6 TOTAL TIME: 1 HOUR, PLUS COOLING DUMPLINGS 2 rashers of higher-welfare smoked streaky bacon 2 small leeks olive oil 125g plain flour 25g maize flour or polenta 1½ teaspoons baking powder ½ teaspoon bicarbonate of soda 30g unsalted butter (cold) 125ml buttermilk 1 large free-range egg STEW 3 onions 3 sticks of celery 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary 3 sprigs of fresh thyme 3 fresh bay leaves 2 teaspoons English mustard 2 tablespoons plain flour 1.5 litres organic veg stock 150g leftover stuffing 500g leftover cooked higherwelfare turkey or chicken meat

To start the dumplings, roughly chop the bacon and place in a large frying pan on a mediumlow heat to crisp up while you wash, trim and finely slice the leeks. Stir them into the pan with 1 tablespoon of oil, then cook for 15 minutes, or until soft and sweet, stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat and leave to cool.

Meanwhile, for the stew, peel the onions, trim the celery, then roughly chop both and place in a large, wide casserole pan on a medium heat with 2 tablespoons of oil (or even better, use turkey dripping to intensify the flavours).

Add the herb sprigs and bay, and cook for 15 minutes, or until soft but not coloured, stirring regularly.

Stir in the mustard and flour for 2 minutes, then gradually stir in the stock to make a nice thick sauce.

Crumble in the leftover stuffing and turn the heat off. Scoop out and discard the herb sprigs and bay leaves, then shred the turkey or chicken meat, stir it into your stew, taste, and season to perfection.

Preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F/gas 6. Place the flours, baking powder and bicarb in a large bowl. Dice and add the butter, then use your thumbs and forefingers to rub the butter into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs. Make a well in the middle, pour in the buttermilk, then gradually mix into the crumbs, bringing them in from the outside.

Stir in the cooled leeks and bacon until just combined, but don’t overwork it – we want the dough as light as possible. Gently roll it out on a clean flour-dusted surface until 2cm thick, then use a 5cm fluted cutter to stamp out as many round dumplings as you can, re-rolling and using up any offcuts – you should get at least 12 from this amount.

Brush the dumplings with beaten egg, then sit them on top of the stew. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the dumplings are risen and golden and the stew is blipping and bubbling away nicely. Delicious with simple steamed greens.

CALORIES

FAT

SAT FAT

PROTEIN

CARBS

SUGARS

SALT

FIBRE

490kcal

19.7g

6.2g

38.1g

42g

10.7g

1.9g

4g

Jamie Oliver’s Christmas Cookbook by Jamie Oliver is published by Penguin Random House © Jamie Oliver Enterprises Limited (2016 Jamie Oliver’s Christmas Cookbook). Photographer: David Loftus.

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FINANCE

MONEY SAVING TIPS OF CHRISTMAS On the first day of Christmas, my true love said to me – STOP SPENDING. Here’s how it’s done

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MAKE A LIST

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AND SET A BUDGET

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CASHBACK CREDIT CARD

Channel Saint Nick and make up a list of everyone you need to buy for this festive season – and do NOT stray beyond it. Stick to close family and friends too. Ethel down the road will understand if you just get her a card.

Once you know who you have to buy for, decide what you’re spending on each – and tweak it to fit the over all budget that you have in mind.

Christmas is just ONE day – don’t leave yourself out of pocket for the full year.

If you’re using a credit card for your Chrimbo spending, investigate cards which offer cashback – if you repay it in full every month, you can get as much as 5% back.

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5

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PLAN AHEAD

Learn from the pressures of this year’s festive season and start saving for 2017 now. By putting away £50 a month, you’ll have £600 saved up to help towards next year.

EBAY IT

Got a mountain of gifts from last year that the kids didn’t touch? Pop it on eBay so it goes to a deserving home this year – and use the cash to go towards this year’s haul.

SHOP AROUND

Don’t buy that must-have item as soon as you see it – do your research and see if it’s available elsewhere for less.

Google’s Shopping search is a good way to do this quickly.

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FINANCE

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SAVE WITH SUPERMARKET STAMPS

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SWIPE THOSE LOYALTY CARDS

Throughout the year, add some supermarket saving stamps onto your weekly shop so that you’re not struggling to get the money together for the full Christmas spread.

From your Tesco Clubcard to Nectar Card, Morrisons More Card to Boots Advantage Card, hand over your points card at the till and reap the rewards – it could help towards next year’s shopping.

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THINK ABOUT SECRET SANTA

When it comes to friends or your siblings, suggest Secret Santa to save you buying gifts for all seven of your brothers and sisters (and their partners). This way, everyone will get one nice present – and you can spend a bit more on the kids.

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BARGAIN HUNT

Whether it’s Black Friday or random money-off days on the run up to Christmas, sign up for email newsletters from your favourite retailers to get notified of deals.

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ASK FOR HELP

If you’re struggling with your finances this year, reach out for help and support from the experts.

The Money Advice Service (www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk, 0800 138 7777) can offer free, impartial advice to help you if things do get out of control.

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SHOW SOME RESTRAINT

It can be tempting to splurge on a Christmas Day feast, but try not to go overboard. Love Food Hate Waste (www.lovefoodhatewaste.com) can give you some guidance on how much you really need to buy. Step away from the mountain of sprouts…

BORROWING CASH RESPONSIBLY What if you don’t have lots of money at your disposal?

Borrowing could be the solution.

Here’s what you need to know If you find yourself in a situation where you simply can’t find the funds to buy your kids the gifts they really, really want, and can’t stand the thought of disappointed faces on Christmas morning, it might be worth looking into taking out a loan to help you get there.

If you can’t get approval for a credit card, or you’d like to access more money than your credit card or overdraft will allow, borrowing money is sometimes an alternative.

When borrowing cash, always consider interest. Banks, building societies and other companies who lend money aren’t doing it out of the goodness of their hearts – they want to make a profit on it. But the lower the interest or APR (annual percentage rate), the less you have to pay back.

One way to avoid these hefty charges is by borrowing through a credit union. Credit unions offer a really affordable way of borrowing cash.

They’re not-for-profit organisations, so interest rates are low – meaning you don’t have to pay as much back as if you were going through a payday loan scheme or a bank. There’s a cap on the interest that credit unions can charge too – so you definitely won’t be taken advantage of.

You’ll need to be a member of the credit union before you can borrow any money, and some might ask that you build up savings with them first.

Most credit unions charge an average of 1% interest a month as you pay off your loan. There are no hidden charges with credit unions either, and no penalties if you repay your loan early.

Paying back your loan is easy too – you can either do it via Direct Debit, through your wages, face-to-face or even through a Paypoint.

FIND OUT MORE For more information on credit unions in Scotland, head to www.scottishcu.org.

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CAREERS think any of us had any kind of vision as to what that could be like. But soon it became apparent that our skills all aligned and it was obvious that we should run a cafe together. We shared the same interests and our ideas for what we wanted to create were the same. Now we love the creativity and freedom that comes with running our own business.

TAKING RISKS

Ever wanted to chuck your job and follow the career of your dreams? We speak with one woman who did exactly that

G

illian Reith, 36, runs Three Sisters Bake in Quarriers Village, Renfrewshire, with her siblings Nichola, 34, and Linsey, 31. Having started their careers in office jobs, the sisters decided to take a leap of faith and turn their love of food into a career. Five years later,

the savvy bakers now have a second cafe, 50 employees, a cookbook and their own wedding coordinating business. We chat to Gillian about what it takes to leave a high-flying career... and never look back.

THE BEGINNING

I had a lovely job. I lived in Ireland and worked in PR and marketing for about four years before moving back to Scotland to work front of house at a cafe in Glasgow. My middle sister Nichola studied chemistry at uni and worked in the pharmaceutical industry as a project manager but she had always baked as a hobby and had started making people’s wedding cakes on the side. Linsey, the youngest, worked in HR for a short while before she took a year out, cheffing in luxury ski resorts and yachts in the south of France. All of us had worked in hospitality jobs through school and university but none of us saw it as a career.

THE BIG IDEA

For years we’d fantasised about running our own business but I don’t 26

LOCATION, LOCATION

We’d been looking in the West End of Glasgow but we couldn’t find anything affordable or big enough so we started looking further afield.

Choosing a location outside of the city centre was a huge challenge because it didn’t come with its own footfall. Once we’d picked our spot in Quarriers Village we knew we’d have to drum up word of mouth in order to get people to come.

SISTER ACT

We now have two locations, a cookbook and are responsible for the livelihood of 50 people – things we would never have considered for a minute when we first started. I was always really, really close with my sisters but now we just know each other in a much deeper way. The only thing I wish we’d known was that it was all going to be OK but I suppose we were lucky to be so naive. If we’d known how much hard work would be involved, maybe we wouldn’t have been brave enough to do it!

PICTURES COURTESY OF THREE SISTERS BAKE

Company IN GOOD

The biggest risk for us was the amount of money that was involved – we’d all been saving as much as we could in that time and for us that was our life savings. In the context of things it was absolutely nothing – we really did start it on a shoestring – but for us, it was a lot of money. Most businesses don’t survive more than a year or two so it was a big risk.

FIND OUT MORE Find out more about Three Sisters Bake at www.threesistersbake.co.uk.

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Tips for a

WINTER

As the weather gets colder, how can you heat your home and have enough cash left over for basics like food and petrol? We’ve got some advice to get you through

W

hen temperatures plummet from ‘manageable’ to ‘Baltic’, it’s a fight to see who can hug the radiator first in some homes – and the arrival of your gas and electricity bills is a true nightmare before Christmas.

For some families, winter means making a choice – heat or eat. Last year, Independent Age estimated that 750,000 elderly Brits would have to make the choice between turning on the heating and basic necessities like the weekly shop. The same report showed that 43% of older people had gone to bed early at least once to stay warm, with 890,000 of them doing this often, or every day.

As fuel prices continue to rise, and the cost of living hot on its heels, it’s a tough time trying to make ends meet for people of all ages nationwide. So what can you do to make sure that you and your family are staying warm and healthy over the winter months?

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HOUSE & HOME TALKING TEMPERATURE

The first place to start is the temperature of your home. Research from emergency repair firm HomeServe has shown that the average household thermostat is set to 23ºC – that’s warmer than your typical summer’s day in Scotland. It’s also higher than the recommended temperature – experts say that you should have your household temperature set between 18 and 21ºC for health and wellbeing, and to relieve pressure on your finances.

By turning your thermostat down by one degree, you could cut your heating bills by up to 10% - that’s roughly £85 a year for your average home. If you don’t have a thermostat to control the temperature of your home, installing one could save you £70 a year too. For the high-tech, smart thermostats like Nest (www.nest.com) and Hive (www. hivehome.com) allow you to control your heating remotely through a smartphone app – so if you’ll be home later than usual, you don’t have to waste energy when you’re not there.

Look into smart meters too – these let you see just how much energy you’re using, and estimate how much you’ll spend. Gas and electricity providers are responsible for providing and fitting smart meters for all customers in Britain by 2020, so give your supplier a call to find out more.

INVESTIGATE INSULATION

Insulating your home can also save you lots of money. Worryingly, a third of the cost of heating your home is lost through your walls.

There are different areas in the house to think about. Installing cavity wall insulation will save you about £155, while your roof and loft could save about £140

a year in a semi-detached home. Also look into insulating hot water tanks, pipes and radiators, as well as under your floorboards on the ground floor of your house.

While installing insulation can be expensive – you’re talking about £475 for cavity wall insulation in a semi-detached house – the savings can really pay off.

Most adaptations pay for themselves in under five years.

GRANTS AND SUPPORT

If you’re really struggling to make ends meet over winter, there is financial support out there. If you want to make some eco-friendly changes to your home to save cash in the long run but can’t afford the initial investment, go to the Energy Savings Trust Scotland site at www.energysavingstrust.org.uk/scotland to investigate different grants and loan schemes that can help you make your home more energy efficient.

The government has a range of schemes for people on low incomes and older people to help meet the cost of winter too. From Cold Weather Payments to Winter Fuel Payments, there’s a variety of support available – head to www.gov. uk/browse/benefits/heating to see what’s available, or use the benefit checker at the Turn2us site (www.turn2us.org.uk) to make sure you’re getting access to all the financial support you’re entitled to.

Just because it’s cold outside, it doesn’t mean you have to sit at home shivering – you do have options to make your home warmer, more energy efficient and cost effective too. So what are you waiting for? Start doing your homework and make some changes – the savings are too good to ignore.

IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS… If you’re not in a position to invest in cold-proofing your home this winter, follow these steps before turning up the thermostat…

LAYERS, LAYERS, LAYERS It’s the classic Scottish mother mantra: put on a jumper! There’s a lot to be said for layering up before switching on the heating, so stick on your winter woollies and get cosy.

BEAT THE DRAUGHTS If you’re heating the rooms you use, don’t let that warmth escape through any nooks and crannies!

Pick up a draught excluder – Lakeland have loads to choose from, or try Argos – and close your curtains at night to keep the cold air out and the hot air in.

TRY A RUG If you’ve got bare floorboards or laminate flooring, a lot of heat can be lost through your floor. Stick down a rug to cosy the place up a bit.

FIX LEAKY TAPS A dripping hot tap can waste enough hot water to fill a bath in the space of a week – so get any leaks sorted.

USE A TIMER It’s not true that leaving your heating on all day is better – set a timer for it to come on before you get home, and again before you get up in the morning. In very cold weather, set the timer a bit earlier so it has more time to heat the place up rather than turning up your thermostat.

HELP AND SUPPORT Energy Saving Trust Scotland www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/scotland 0808 808 2282

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Protect your pipes Keep the water cycle running smoothly and be prepared in winter. Heat, insulate and protect your home. www.scottishwater.co.uk/winter facebook.com/scottishwater @scottish_water To receive free texts (SMS)* to keep up to date about our work or service updates, such as having no water supply, in your area – please text ‘Update’ with your postcode to 82228. * For more info and T&Cs visit www.scottishwater.co.uk/textterms

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LIFE

2017 New Year’s resolutions aren’t just about weight, booze and banking. Check out these goals for 2017 to get you motivated to make a positive change

F

or 2017, we’ve ditched the usual depressing promises we all make as the clock strikes 12, and instead we’re lining up little life hacks to help give each day an extra boost throughout January. Rip out this page, stick it on your fridge and prepare to be inspired...

1. WE’LL START EASY ON YOU: FLOSS. 2. Send that email/make that phone call that you’ve been putting off.

Trust us, it will make you feel great to get that weight off your shoulders.

3. Give Netflix a break and read a book instead.

8

When your alarm goes off this morning, focus on yourself, not others.

That means no email, no Instagram and no gossip gossip sites.

17. Today at work, offer something instead of asking for something.

18. Donate to charity, buy a Big Issue, sign up for a sponsored run. It’s good to give back.

19. DANCE IN YOUR PANTS.

10. Today, don’t sweat the small stuff.

20. Clear out your wardrobe and get rid of all the things you never wear. They may have been a bargain, but are you ever going to wear tie-dye trousers? Thought not.

11. EXERCISE.

5. NO SUGAR TODAY (SORRY).

12. Go a day without coffee. Dare you.

7. Buy flowers for someone you love for no reason.

16. Make all your own meals today and ditch the processed food. Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

9. Boost your commute: listen to a new podcast or try an audiobook.

4. Call at least two members of your family just to say hello.

6. Let yourself off the hook for something. Like the box of Maltesers you scoffed yesterday.

15. Take a different route to work for a change of scenery.

13. Wake up an hour earlier and treat yourself to something you love before the manic day begins.

Maybe it’s a run, a spot of online shopping or just a really tasty breakfast.

14. Send someone a letter or card. Just because.

21. Buy something extra special to fill all that space in your closet.

22

Pack a picnic, grab some pals and hop on a train to somewhere you’ve never been.

23. Delete that person who always lets you down from your phone.

24. Give yourself a real lunch break: no phone, no emails, no stress.

25. Do something bad that feels good.

26. Eat something good – even if it tastes bad.

27. EMPTY YOUR INBOX. 28. Try that wacky exercise class you’ve always fancied.

29. Relax, have a bath and go to bed before 11pm.

Extra points if this is done with a glass of wine.

30. Go to whatever event is happening in your area tonight. From life drawing to stand up, there’s sure to be something on.

31. Embrace your inner Mary Berry and bake a cake from scratch.

Momentarily consider applying for GBBO. Family Life - Winter 2016

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

CARE TO MAKE A

DIFFERENCE?

Foster carers play an incredible role – and more are needed to help children and young people across Scotland to flourish.

Care Visions tell us how you could get signed up

T

aking the first step to becoming a foster carer is a big decision, but it can be one of the most rewarding decisions you will ever make.

Children and young people who need foster carers may have suffered neglect and abuse, or their parents may have chaotic lives, affected by alcohol or drugs, and be unable to care for them.

All of the children and young people who need our care come from very different backgrounds, however they do have one thing in common; they all need security, stability and a safe place to call home.

FULFILLED LIVES

Working together, we support you throughout their fostering journey to help transform the lives of children and young people, giving them the hope and aspirations they need to grow up to lead happy, loving, fulfilled lives.

You don’t need formal qualifications to become a foster carer, but you do need some life experience and be willing to participate in our assessment and training programme.

If you are over 25, have a spare room in your home and want to make a difference to a young person’s life why not make that first call to offer a better future for a young person?

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SUPPORT

We provide an allowance when a child is placed with you and ongoing support from a dedicated fostering social worker. Our foster carers can also meet up in local groups, to offer support, share ideas, information and their knowledge.

Vicky, one of our experienced carers, sums the rewards of fostering up perfectly: “Me and my husband always wanted a family. We tried IVF but unfortunately it just didn’t work for us. We decided to foster so we could help a number of children. In the eight years we’ve been with Care Visions we’ve looked after eleven young people.

“We did a lot of research first and spoke with other foster carers and after considering everything we decided to go for it! I can honestly say we’ve never looked back.

Fostering is challenging, it’s not easy, but when you see a child who has been scared and lost, smiling and really laughing for the first time, that’s your reward. It really is the best job in the world!’

FIND OUT MORE If you want to talk to one of our team about making a difference then please call 01786 477810, and we can give you more information on what’s involved.

Alternatively, you can email makeadifference@carevisions.co.uk and we will send out an information pack.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

MAKE

LOTHIAN BUSES part of your festive season Nobody does Christmas like Edinburgh – and getting round the capital couldn’t be easier FAMILY DAY OUT IN EDINBURGH?

You can get out and about with all the family from £8.50 with Lothian Buses’ Family DAYticket. Enjoy all day travel for two adults and up to three kids on day buses and Edinburgh Trams (city fare zone). Adult DAYticket is £4 and Child DAYticket is £2.

Whether you’re taking the kids to enjoy the thrill of the Big Wheel in Princes Street Gardens or need to nip to the shops for stocking fillers, with over 70 bus routes throughout Edinburgh, East Lothian and Midlothian we’ve got your travel needs covered.

Forget the stress of parking in the city centre. DAYtickets are available to buy from Park&Ride facilities – take advantage of free parking and hasslefree travel into the city.

Enjoy good value travel seven days a week thanks to our improved Sunday services. The majority of buses offer a frequency of at least every 20 to 30 minutes.

You can keep up with all the latest travel information with our free app – download it today at TfEapp.com.

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CHRISTMAS NIGHT OUT?

For adults planning a festive night out, there’s our £3.50 DAY&NIGHTticket – like the DAYticket, but valid after 6pm on day and NightBus services until 4:30am. We also have the £3 NIGHTticket, valid from midnight to 4:30am.

NightBus offers a wide network and frequent services across Edinburgh, East Lothian and Midlothian. Plan your journey at Lothianbuses.co.uk/ nightbus.

TRAVELLING INTO EAST LOTHIAN, DAY OR NIGHT?

East Coast Buses connects communities in North Berwick with Musselburgh and Edinburgh, and Dunbar with Haddington and Edinburgh. Whether you’re heading to a Christmas market or planning a walk on the beach, make East Coast Buses part of your day out.

East Coast Buses has introduced NightHawk – new night time services available at weekends from Edinburgh into East Lothian until 3am. At the end of a festive night out, NightHawk has your #Christmascarriages sorted.

FLYING OUT OF EDINBURGH AIRPORT THIS CHRISTMAS?

Don’t forget our Airlink service 100 offers frequent express travel between Edinburgh Airport and the City Centre, 24/7. An Adults single costs £4.50 and a return is £7.50. A Child single is £2 and a return is £3.

FIND OUT MORE Find out more at Lothianbuses.co.uk

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11/11/2016 18:24

ENTERTAINMENT

Elaine C Smith

THE

PANTO QUEEN

Scottish comedy legend Elaine C Smith has had a whirlwind year.

We caught up with the artist formerly known as Mary Doll ahead of her annual panto run

ON STAGE

But this won’t be for long. Elaine is gearing up for her annual stint at His Majesty’s Theatre in Aberdeen, where she’ll be taking to the stage in Dick McWhittington.

“I’ve not done Dick Whittington before so this is quite fresh,” she says. “You always get to that stage – is it Christmas already? It is knackering. It’s two shows a day every day for six weeks.

You’re down at the coalface; there’s not much time for anything. But I love it.”

This is Elaine’s eighth year in Aberdeen, and she says she looks forward to her time in the Granite City each year.

“When I got the Aberdeen offer, I

thought, ‘I don’t really know if they’ll like me there – I’ll go for a Elaine with her Dick year,’” she recalls.

McWhittington co-stars Jordan Young and Alan “And now we’re McHugh eight years on. It’s a city I’ve fallen in love with. I feel like an honorary Aberdonian now. It is a bit of a home from home.”

AND SCREEN

Dick McWhittington rounds off a fantastic year for Elaine. The former drama teacher is back on our screens soon with a second series of Two Doors Down, the BBC comedy in which she stars alongside Jonathan Watson, Arabella Weir and Sharon Rooney, while her six-part series Elaine C Smith’s Burdz Eye View has just drawn to a close on STV. The show sees Elaine explore Scotland, stopping off in destinations like Arran, Millport and beyond.

“We’re amazed by the reaction,” she says of the show. “We’re getting bigger audiences than EastEnders in Scotland at the moment. It’s one of those wee programmes we made for two bags of chips and a Kit Kat, but it’s been one of the most joyous things that we’ve done.

I feel like an honorary Aberdonian now

As Christine in BBC comedy Two Doors Down

I wanted to say, ‘As much as I love going abroad, have a wee look at this.’ The next series, we’re going to the islands.

I’ve never been to Skye, I’m ashamed to say – I’m really looking forward to it.”

And with that, she’s off. More lines to learn, more filming to be done – and some family time squeezed in there too.

One thing’s for sure – Elaine C Smith is showing no signs of slowing down any time soon.

FIND OUT MORE Two Doors Down returns to BBC Two on 21 November. Catch Elaine in Dick McWhittington at His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen, from Saturday 3 December. Get your tickets from www.aberdeenperformingarts.com.

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PICTURES MICHAL WACHUCIK/ABERMEDIA; BBC/ALAN PEEBLES

E

laine C Smith’s life is a bit of a blur at the moment. Between a touring production of Annie, writing a Glaswegian translation of Julia Donaldson’s The Gruffalo, filming a comedy series for the BBC and a travel show for STV, the last 12 months have been busy to say the least – but the actress wouldn’t have it any other way.

“I’m finally getting a cup of tea,” she laughs. “We’ve been filming for Two Doors down this morning, so I’ve now got my feet up.”

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ENTERTAINMENT

That’s

ENTERTAINMENT BOOKS MOVIES TV MUSIC

We line up all the best entertainment treats coming to you this winter

TV

DOCTOR WHO

(BBC One, Christmas Day) Now as much a Christmas tradition as mince pies, the Doctor Who Christmas special is always one of the highlights of the season. This time around, Whovians will be treated to a superhero-themed story centring around the mysterious Doctor Mysterio. Fans are speculating that it’ll riff on classic comic books to see The Doctor and Nardole (Matt Lucas) team up to defend New York from aliens.

We. Can’t. Wait.

CALL THE MIDWIFE

(BBC One, Christmas Day) Trixie, Barbara and co are heading to South Africa for this year’s festive instalment ahead of series six. A tiny mission hospital on the Eastern Cape is going through a terrible time and the Nonnatus nuns might be the ones to save it from closure.

Bring the tissues and have your fingers crossed for a real Christmas miracle.

SHERLOCK

(BBC One, 1 January) What better way to recover from the havoc of Hogmanay than cosying up with Benedict Cumberbatch? Sherlock returns for his fourth (and possibly final) season on New Year’s Day on the Beeb. No word yet on what to expect – but we’re sure the sight of Benedict’s chiselled cheekbones alone will be more than enough to brighten up a cold winter’s day.

REVOLTING RHYMES

(BBC One, TBA) This winter, the makers of The Gruffalo are back. Hoorah! This time, it’s to lovingly recreate Roald Dahl’s Revolting Rhymes.

The stories will be shown as two half-hour films that weave together five of Dahl’s rhymes – Little Red Riding Hood, Snow White, The Three Little Pigs, Jack and the Beanstalk and Cinderella. And with David Walliams and Dominic West leading the all-star cast, it’ll be mischievous fun for all the family.

Christmas isn’t Christmas without The Doctor – and this year’s offering promises to be a cracker

Cumberbatch is Cumber-back as Sherlock

Expect big laughs from Revolting Rhymes Family Life - Winter 2016

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ENTERTAINMENT

BOOKS

MOVIES

Another Day in the Death of America

by Gary Younge

Former Guardian columnist Gary Younge explores the lives and deaths of all the young victims shot during one random day in America.

An important and moving analysis of the USA’s problems with race and guns.

ROGUE ONE: A STAR WARS STORY

16 December Not to confuse you, but there is another Star Wars movie coming. Set just before the events of Episode IV, A New Hope – the first film in the Star Wars series – this story will centre on a group of Rebel spies on a mission to steal the plans for the Galactic Empire’s new weapon, the Death Star. While it will feature everyone’s favourite bad guy Darth Vader, Rogue One marks the first time a Star Wars live-action movie has stepped outside the confines of the Skywalker saga. Expect seat-clutching, back-to-back explosions – oh, and lots of people in the audience dressed up as Yoda. Special, they are.

Felicity Jones is set to put her stamp on the Star Wars universe in Rogue One

PASSENGERS

21 December Ever had one of those mornings when you’ve woken up and had no idea where you were? That’s the premise for Passengers, the forthcoming sci-fi thriller in which Jennifer Lawrence and Chris Pratt play intergalactic travellers who wake up 90 years ahead of schedule while being transported to a new life on another planet. As you do. While the good-looking duo do fall in love, this is not your average romance. This

MUSIC YOU ME AT SIX – Night People

(Sony, 13 January) Do you really want to be down with the kids in 2017? Then you better get pre-ordering You Me At Six. Set for release in January, Night People will see the band move in a different direction, with gritty guitar riffs matching hip-hop beats. The group will follow it up with a long run of shows kicking off in April – get your tickets now to impress the kids.

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The Power

by Naomi Alderman

big blast movie is reported to have cost a cool $120 million.

BEAUTY AND BEAST

March 2017 After the box office triumph of their live-action take on Cinderella, Disney are hoping to replicate their success by casting Emma Watson as Belle in the latest adaptation of a fairytale classic. Ewan McGregor stars as Lumiere, Ian McKellen as Cogsworth and Emma Thompson as the lovable Mrs Potts. Disney fans cannot miss this one.

U2 – Songs of Experience

(Island Records, date TBA, 2017) Fresh from being awarded ‘Woman of the Year’ by Glamour magazine (yes, you read that right), Bono assures us there are more surprises ahead next year. U2 are set release their new album, Songs Of Experience, early in the new year.

Expect strong lyrics and classic guitar riffs galore from our favourite Irish rockers.

DUA LIPA – Dua Lipa

(Warner Music, February 2017) After having hits Hotter Than Hell and Blow Your Mind on repeat all summer long, pop princess Dua Lipa will liven up the dull winter months with her debut album. Expect lots of feel-good tunes and catchy choruses.

(Viking, out now)

Imagine a world where girls are physically stronger than boys – what would the outcome be? Alderman creates a dystopian future where, following a sudden epidemic, women can inflict serious pain – or even death – through touch alone. A moving social critique that proves that power is dangerous – no matter whose hands it is in.

The Dark Flood Rises by Margaret Drabble (Canongate Books, out now)

This novel is about ageing and death, and how we deal with those things as we approach our later years. But it’s not as depressing as it might sound – Drabble has created a darkly sardonic and moving tale about one woman’s obsession with the perfect death (and how to achieve it). It’s just as funny as it is thoughtprovoking – the perfect companion for a chilly winter’s afternoon cosied up indoors.

PICTURES SHERLOCK BBC/HARTSWOOD FILMS/TODD ANTONY; DOCTOR WHO: BBC/RAY BURMISTON; REVOLTING RHYMES: BBC/MAGIC LIGHT PICTURES; ROGUE ONE: © 2016 LUCASFILM LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

(Guardian Faber Publishing, out now)

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How

HARMFUL is your bathroom cabinet?

Scrubs, cleansers, toothpastes – how bad can they be? A lot worse than you might think. We find out more about the potentially deadly effects of everyday cosmetics 40

I

f you were to take a look in your bathroom beauty basket, chances are, something in there will contain microbeads. Exfoliating face scrubs and shower gels, certain toothpastes, body polishes… There’s plenty out there that’s using the controversial ingredient. But what’s the big deal?

Microbeads are small, nonbiodegradable plastic balls which are used in lots of big name beauty and cleaning products as an exfoliant. Often made of polyethylene, they’re small enough to go down your plughole and pass through filtration systems – and

straight out of our thoughts.

In the world’s oceans, however, it’s a different story. As many as 100,000 microbeads can be washed away with the single use of some products, and they end up in the sea, mingling with the 8 million tonnes of plastic that enters the ocean every year. What’s more, microbeads tend to attract waterbourne toxins, which, when ingested by micro crustaceans in the sea, will then enter the food chain, ending up in the stomachs of seabirds, whales, turtles and fish – and it can be potentially deadly.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

PARTIAL BAN

The US and Canada have already banned the use of microbeads, and earlier this year, prime minister Theresa May announced a plan to ban microbeads from cosmetic products by 2017 – but this hasn’t included things like abrasive cleaning products.

“A partial ban on microbeads simply doesn’t make sense,” says Fiona Nicholls, oceans campaigner at Greenpeace UK. “The recent UK government announcement that microbeads are to be banned in personal care products by the end of 2017 is encouraging, but it doesn’t go far enough. It boils down to the simple fact that fish can’t tell if these tiny plastics originated from a face scrub or a washing detergent. Plastic pollution is pollution no matter where it came from.”

The good news is that there are natural alternatives to these pesky plastics – but it does mean shopping around to find cosmetics and home cleaning products that are steering clear of potentially damaging ingredients. More and more companies are emerging, offering environmentally-friendly – and skin-friendly – products, often using ingredients found in nature.

“We’ve never used microbeads –

we’ve always used natural alternatives,” says Ian Taylor, research manager at Green People, the natural cosmetics company. “Amongst the ingredients that we use are a finely milled apricot kernel powder, a bamboo stem extract and we use bentonite clay, which is an earth mineral. These three combined give excellent exfoliating properties, without being aggressive or abrasive to the skin.

They cost a little bit more and they are a little bit more difficult to work with, but that’s not an excuse.”

NATURAL ALTERNATIVES

And it’s not just our exfoliators that we need to think about – there’s a lot to be said for checking out natural alternatives in a whole range of different products.

Ingredients found in nature can have real benefits – and their manufacture is less damaging on the environment.

You wouldn’t knowingly eat products packed full with chemicals – so why should your skin be any different? While all beauty products and cosmetics must be approved for use, and nothing that’s harmful or toxic will make its ways onto our shelves, some have the potential to irritate, particularly those with sensitive skin or who are prone to allergies.

“We’ve used a whole range of

THE BEST OF GREEN BEAUTY

Lots of companies are offering natural, organic products which promise big results. Here’s our pick of the market

GREEN PEOPLE QUINOA AND ARTICHOKE SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER www.greenpeople.co.uk The new quinoa and artichoke range from Green People is great for your locks and packed with natural goodness. Suitable for all hair types, the quinoa nourishes the hair while artichoke smoothes for a frizz-free mane.

WELEDA SKIN FOOD www.weleda.co.uk Weleda have been on the go for over 100 years, using fab organic ingredients to produce really effective products. Skin Food is a super strength moisturiser for dry skin – perfect for the winter months. Good for rough elbows, knees, hands and faces, this super nourishing moisturiser is a game changer.

NEAL’S YARD SEAWEED SALT SCRUB www.nealsyard remedies.com Ditch the microbeads in favour of natural alternatives – like this seaweed salt scrub from Neal’s Yard. Using allnatural, biodegradable ingredients like kaolin, sea salt and pumice, this is a real treat, promising smooth skin.

ingredients as preservatives, for instance, but normally they’re materials you can find in plants, fruits and berries,” explains Ian. “Nature has created these to prevent contamination – berries are rich in sugar, in nutrients. These are ideal conditions to support bacterial life. So the plant has created its own preservative systems, if you like, to prevent the fruit from rotting and decaying.”

When Green People launched almost 20 years ago, it was seen as a little bit ‘out there’, but today, more and more cosmetics companies are coming forward and embracing the natural – with great results. The likes of Neal’s Yard, Burt’s Bees, REN, Korres, Dr Hauschka and many more are taking the beauty industry by storm, with more companies emerging year on year to tap into the benefits found in nature.

“We believe that naturally sourced and organic materials have real benefit and empathy with the human body and offer genuine benefits,” Ian adds.

“More synthetic ingredients might feel nice on the skin, but they’re not adding any nutrients, they’re not adding any functionality to the skin, they’re not guarding against free radical activity – these are all properties which we feel are all-important.”

L’OCCITANE EN PROVENCE SHEA BUTTER HAND CREAM uk.loccitane.com French cosmetics company L’Occitane are big on organic, fair trade ingredients for their gorgeous range – and their best selling shea butter hand cream is the real standout. Enriched with 20% organic shea butter, not only does this hand cream smell delicious, but it keeps your hands super soft.

BURT’S BEES TINTED LIP BALM www.burtsbees.co.uk Burt’s Bees is a US-based company that’s been on the go since the 80s.

Maine artist Roxanne Quimby decided to use leftover beeswax from local honey producer Burt Shavitz’ hives to create beauty products – and these days it’s a global success. Their tinted lip balm uses botanical waxes and shea butter to provide eight-hour moisture in six different colours.

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GOOD ?

D A F OR

HEALTH & BEAUTY

ENT M E V O M S S E N L L E W THE UNCOVERED

It’s all eating clean, gluten-free, yoga at sunrise and binning sugar – but just how good for you is the wellness trend? Family Life investigates

D

espite the recent wave of wellness – before we make lasting changes to our diet, from avocados on Instagram to living especially if this involves cutting out foods and wheat/dairy/fun-free – us Scots aren’t food groups.” the best when it comes to healthy Kellie herself studied a master’s in health eating. Recent research has found that the education at the University of Edinburgh and majority of Scots don’t follow healthy eating has dedicated her life to promoting eating as guidelines despite being aware of them, and a way to encourage better health. “Good food our average daily calorie intake is 40% higher and eating well can mean different things for than the recommended target. different people,” says Kellie. “Good food and Scots blame shops for promoting highhealthy eating are rarely in isolation, with both calorie items as their main obstacle to eating being part of a lifestyle that encourages better better, with 68% saying that unhealthy foods health.” were far cheaper and easier to buy.

SOUND JUDGEMENT Earlier this year Ruby Tandoh – a Kellie advises when it comes finalist in the Great British Bake Scots to sorting the good from the Off in 2013 – echoed these consume fad, people should always concerns, attacking the good 40% more rely on sound judgement. “I food movement for being advise our patients to exercise based wholly on “classism”. She calories than common sense when reading also took to Twitter to accuse advised wellness books and buying wellness chefs, the Hemsley associated products, especially sisters, of “‘wellness’ evangelism” if they are looking to them to fix and “‘wellness’ quackery” – declaring a health problem,” explains Kellie. “If that their clean-eating approach books are advocating that every reader cut out contributed to “food fear, fat phobia”. food groups without further exploration and CRITICISM professional, individualised advice I would be Ruby isn’t the first to rile against sisters Jasmine questioning it.” and Melissa Hemsley and their clean eating But Kellie warns we shouldn’t be too quick suggestions – which include telling their to dismiss the goals of clean eating. “These dedicated followers to abandon gluten, sugar books often advocate lots of vegetables, and any processed food. The siblings, and herbs, nuts and seeds, so if people eat more fellow wellness chef and blogger Deliciously of these, that’s a good thing,” says Kellie.

Ella (real name Ella Woodward), have been “Adding more plant foods is always going to criticised for promising health miracles through be a good idea.” food, despite having no formal qualifications in For Kellie, the most important thing is for diet, nutrition or cookery. people not to feel overwhelmed by all the “They are all enormously well intentioned information available. “Think inclusive rather and have some interesting recipes,” says than exclusive,” she says. “Include more plant Kellie Anderson, a qualified food nutritionist at foods to your daily diet and don’t worry about Edinburgh Maggie’s Centre. “But I think that the odd slice of cake. It’s the totality of the diet we should seek the advice of a professional rather than the individual days that count.”

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Two Fantastic Festive Events!

Book online now at

scotlandsthemepark.com

The fun starts on Fri 18 November*

Strathclyde Country Park, Motherwell

*On selected dates and times. See website for details.

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What’s on?

ENTERTAINMENT

WINTER 2016

The festive season sees a packed schedule of exciting events and top entertainment across Scotland – so what will you be getting involved with?

F�r couples ST ANDREW’S DAY CELEBRATIONS

Where? St Andrews When? 27-30 November What better way to celebrate St Andrew’s Day than in the town named after him?

Expect to see some of Scotland’s best up-andcoming musicians performing on the streets, a St Andrews v Rest of the World golf tournament and a Scottish food and drink festival. If you can, make a weekend of it and book a cute B&B so you can enjoy everything that’s on offer.

It doesn’t get more patriotic than that.

Info: www.visitstandrews.com

VEGFEST SCOTLAND

Where? SECC, Glasgow When? 3-4 December Vegfest, Scotland’s vegan festival, saw huge success with its debut exhibition last year, so it’s back to spread the very simple message – go vegan!

Expect tasting sessions, cooking classes, educational talks and live performances. Even if you’re not vegan yourself, there’s still plenty to see and t ste nd ou might e en find th t meat-free dishes are a lot tastier than you expected. Local businesses will show off their vegan cuisine and you’re ound to find lent of new sm ll companies to support. Prepare to be surprised, impressed – and much more into bean burgers.

Info: www.vegfestscotland.com

THE DUNDEE SCOTTISH AND ETHICAL CHRISTMAS FAIR

Where? Dundee City Square When? 3-18 December Feel good about your Christmas shopping this year by supporting local businesses and ethically sourced materials at Dundee’s ethical Christmas fair. This festive market will feature a wide variety of gifts, as well as hot food and mulled wine to keep you going during the stressful experience that Christmas shopping can be.

Responsible purchases mean you can shop guilt-free and know that everyone involved in creating your gifts was treated fairly.

Info: www.handupevents.co.uk

EDINBURGH’S HOGMANAY

Where? Edinburgh City Centre When? 31 December Edinburgh has one of the biggest and best Hogmanay celebrations in the world, so while many people travel from all over the world to experience it, we’re lucky enough to have it on our doorstep.

Paolo Nutini headlines the Concert in the Gardens this year, while the ceilidh in Parliament Square always attracts a huge, enthusiastic owd he midnight fi ewo ks nd magical atmosphere creates a romantic Hogmanay that you’ll never forget.

Info: www.edinburghshogmanay.com

WINE UNEARTHED

Where? Radisson Blu, Glasgow When? 14 January Wine lovers rejoice – there’s a tasting festival in Glasgow this January! If you haven’t resolved to cut back on the booze in the new year, head along and learn how to taste wine like a real expert. Try reds and whites, then enjoy a three course lunch to match the wines from the day. Taking place in the opulent setting of the Radisson Blu, this event is guaranteed to make you feel very classy.

Info: www.wineunearthed.co.uk

JACK WHITEHALL

Where? SECC, Glasgow When? 3 February The mega posh star of Bad Education and Fresh Meat is heading to Glasgow s t of his fi st e e en tou Expect lots of laughs from the two-time winner of the British Comedy Awards’ King of Comedy.

Info: www.ticketmaster.co.uk

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ENTERTAINMENT

With Friends NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: ERSKINE 100

Where? Hunterian Museum, Glasgow University When? 25 November The Hunterian Museum is putting on two special night-time events for St Andrew’s Day and Burn’s Night. On 25 November, celebrate the history of Erskine Hospital, which was built to provide care for limbless soldiers fte o ld he e will e films projected behind the impressive rare collection, with food, drinks and a popup shop also on offer.

Info: www.gla.ac.uk/hunterian

MAMMA MIA!

Where? Edinburgh Playhouse When? 29 November-20 December There’s nothing like a feel-good musical to get you in the spirit for the festive season, and Mamma Mia! has one of the best soundtracks to sing along to.

Featuring a cast with much better vocal performances than Pierce Brosnan in the movie and a gorgeous Greek setting, you’ll quickly get lost in the hilarious and heart-warming story.

Info: www.mamma-mia.com

your friends occupied all day. Sip on cocktails, view the latest trends and dance to some great music, all while enjoying some free pampering sessions – what more could you ask for?

Info: www.girlsdayoutshow.co.uk

GIRLS DAY OUT

SANTA DASH

Where? SECC, Glasgow When? 2-4 December The annual girly day returns this December with a range of fashion, beauty, food and entertainment to keep you and

Where? Glasgow When? 11 December This year marks the tenth annual Santa Dash, which sees thousands of Santas running 5k through Glasgow’s city centre to raise money for various charities. Grab a group of friends and get into the festive spirit while doing your bit for good causes, then enjoy the strange looks you get when you all

head out for a drink afterwards!

Info: www.glasgowloves christmas.com

CELTIC CONNECTIONS

Where? Various venues, Glasgow When? 19 January-5 February Celtic Connections brings over 2,000 musicians to Glasgow with 300 events celebrating Celtic music.

Billy Bragg, Joanne Shaw, The Felice Brothers and many more will perform in a range of venues, from the Royal Concert Hall to Drygate Brewery – it’s an event not to be missed for music fans. The National Whisky Festival of Scotland is also part of the Celtic Connections programme, so get ready to feel very patriotic.

Info: www.celticconnections.com

STILL GAME: LIVE 2

Where? SSE Hydro, Glasgow When? Dates throughout February After its much-anticipated return to our TV screens earlier this year, it was only a matter of time before the Still Gamers were back on the stage! Following last year’s success, Jack, Victor and the rest of the crew are heading back to The Hydro for another run of side-splitting live comedy. Get your tickets now before they sell out.

Info: www.ticketmaster.co.uk

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Family Time FUNBOX CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND

Where? Venues across Scotland When? Dates throughout November and December Anya, Kevin and Gary are taking to the road on the run up to Christmas with their Christmas Wonderland tour.

The family favourites will have a host of festive songs, silly games and more to wow young audiences this winter.

Rumour has it, Santa himself might even make an appearance…

Info: www.funbox.co.uk

EDINBURGH’S CHRISTMAS

STREET OF LIGHT

Where? Edinburgh When? 20 November 24 December For the festive season Edinburgh’s West George Street will be transformed with an impressive tunnel of light with over 60,000 bulbs. It’s free for anyone to see throughout the day, but the two nightly performances at 6pm and 8pm are ticketed, which you must apply for online in advance. The performances feature a light show and musical performances from a variety of Scottish acts – and the photo opportunities are gorgeous!

Info: www.streetoflight.com

SANTA’S WOODLAND EXPERIENCE

Where? Balfron Station When? 26 November-24 December This is a visit to Santa’s grotto with a twist! Your family will be driven through the woods on a tractor trailer to take in the surroundings and even spot some reindeer, then meet Santa and receive an early Christmas present. Afterwards, there’s time for refreshments and some Christmas decoration shopping before returning to reality with a huge festive smile on your face.

Info: www.woodland experiences.co.uk

OBAN WINTER FESTIVAL

Where? Oban Town Centre When? 20-29 November There’s loads to do throughout this 10day festival, including a charity fashion show, whisky tasting, reindeer parade, ballet performances and campervan tours. Kids can attend music workshops and submit their designs for the new McCaig’s Tower, while the grown-ups can try cocktails and take part in ceilidh dancing. The Victorian Christmas market and Christmas light shows are the perfect way to get the whole family excited for the festive season.

Info: www.obanwinterfestival.com

IRN-BRU CARNIVAL

Where? SECC, Glasgow When? 21 December-15 January Europe’s largest indoor funfair is a staple activity of the festive season for many Scots, with a host of rides for all ages as well as traditional stalls. This year will also feature Resonate, the festival of E-sports and gaming, so if you struggle to tear your kids away from their PS4, this will persuade them to join in the family day out.

Info: www.irn-bru-carnival.com

PICTURES : JANE BARLOW PHOTOGRAPHY; LOUISE DE CARLO

Where? Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh When? 18 November-7 January Edinburgh has an impressive programme of Yuletide events planned for this year’s festivities. With loads on offer for the kids, you’ll probably have to make several trips to the capital throughout the season! All your old favourite carnival rides are available as well as a Christmas tree maze, iceskating and a Santa train, while the European and Scottish markets offer up a wide range of gifts and food. A veriety of theatre shows will be part of the celebrations this year too, so even the fussiest of kids will find something they love.

Info: www.edinburghschristmas.com

ENTERTAINMENT

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COMPETITION

WIN a break to

Stobo Castle Health Spa

Treat yourself in the new year with this issue’s luxurious giveaway...

B

etween finally helping Santa track down a Hatchimal, arguments over sprouts and just a little bit too much time spent with relatives you only see once a year, Christmas can be pretty stressful. Once the festivities are over, you’ll deserve a little bit of ‘me’ time to put the stress behind you. And where better to do it than Stobo Castle Health Spa near Peebles?

Award-winning Stobo Castle combines the finest spa facilities in Europe with premier hotel service, and adds a personal touch to make Stobo your very own personal haven.

Guests at Stobo are drawn to Scotland’s only 25m Ozone Pool offering panoramic views of the

Borders countryside and giant Hydrospa with relaxing water jets.

Knowledgeable fitness trainers run a full range of classes throughout the day, suitable for every level of fitness.

In the spa, there are customised treatments available to detoxify, smooth, tone and revitalise as the mood suits, carried out by highlytrained personal therapists.

In the castle’s grounds, the gently burbling Japanese Water Gardens are specially designed to promote a Zenlike calm. Water from the Stobo Lake tumbles down a cascading waterfall, whilst delightful little bridges take you over peaceful pools – perfect for a mid-afternoon stroll before heading back for dinner.

At Stobo, the chefs create dishes sourced from only the finest Scottish produce, which are not only delicious but promote healthy eating – some decadent desserts are on the menu too, alongside Champagne, cocktails and fine wine. It’s a real treat for foodies.

Find out more about what Stobo has to offer at www.stobocastle.co.uk.

THE PRIZE One Family Life winner will win an overnight stay for two at Stobo Castle Health Spa, which will include: • Overnight stay in a classic room • One back massage with relaxing oils per person • Dinner, breakfast and lunch • Use of the spa facilities • Optional fitness and aqua classes • Entry into the Japanese Water Gardens • Complimentary slippers and use of bathrobes

HOW TO ENTER To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize, answer this question: Where is Stobo Castle Health Spa located? a. Troon b. Aberdeen c. Peebles Send your answer, along with your name, address, email address, daytime telephone number and where you picked up your copy of Family Life to Stobo Competition, Family Life Magazine, DC Publishing Ltd, 200 Bath Street, Glasgow, G2 4HG, or email your details to competitions@dcpublishing.co.uk, with Family Life Stobo Competition in the subject line. All entries must be received by 30 January 2017. Good luck!

TERMS AND CONDITIONS All entries must be received by 30 January 2017. Minimum age 14. Excludes Friday and Saturday nights. Prize is an overnight stay for two in a classic room at Stobo Castle (Stobo, Peebles, EH45 8NY) only. There is no cash or other alternative. Transport to and from the hotel is not included. Prize is subject to availability. One entry per household. The publisher’s decision is final.

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