News.

Whether it’s food or drink, few countries have had such an enormous impact on world cuisine as France. Champagne to start of course, followed by Chateaubriand washed down with a ruby red Bordeaux or a coq au vin accompanied by Sauvignon Blanc, then there’s the cheese to follow and a glass of cognac. Yet French […]

Food is essential for life and good food can be one of our greatest pleasures, but there’s nothing more important than food safety. However, if food isn’t stored or prepared carefully it can have adverse impacts, which is why the United Nations takes time each year to encourage global food safety awareness.  Under the slogan “Food […]

As the nation prepares to take a well earned breather to pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth II, it’s worth reflecting on the influence Her Majesty has had on modern life. During her 70-year reign she has inspired many through her choice of clothes, jewellery, hairstyle and of course established corgis as the pet by royal […]

There’s no doubt that great food can inspire – whether that’s in art, literature or song. But in some cases the impact can be so profound it’s the last thing we think of during our time on Earth. Legendary American frontiersman Kit Carson, whose anniversary falls next week, inspires admiration and revulsion in equal measure. […]

Parts of Rome were placed under curfew recently and the reason may surprise you and give you food for thought. It wasn’t due to power shortages or Covid-19, but an influx of wild boars looking for food. Picnickers are a particular target for the beasts that often prowl with a litter of piglets in tow. […]

As sunshine threatens (watch this space) to break out across the UK we can celebrate the 100th birthday of one of the real treats of summer – the ice lolly. It emerged by accident, when 11-year-old Frank Epperson left some home made lemonade in a glass, along with a stirring stick, outside on his porch […]

How will you spend the forthcoming Bank Holiday? Visiting a local beauty spot or heritage site? or just relaxing at home, possibly pondering how you will spend the double bank holiday coming up in June that marks the 70 year reign of Queen Elizabeth. Well, however you spend the day, spare a thought for Sir […]

You’ll no doubt have heard how dangerous the age of 27 can be for rock stars. The “27 Club” charts the demise of famous musicians at this age. It’s an extensive list that starts with the father of the blues Robert Johnson, includes Brian Jones, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin and Jim Morrison either side of […]

When it comes to creating inventions that have transformed the world, Japan ranks as high as any country and in the words of Alphaville (this reference will only mean anything if you are a fan of 80s music), everything is Big in Japan From martial arts to video games, electronics and transport, this island in […]