Category: Family

Toy Review

What Is The So Slime Go Gooey Snails Slime Race Set?

The beauty of the So Slime Go Gooey Snails Slime Race Set is that it gives the kids an activity to carry out while playing with their slime.

The problem with most slime gifts, is that it’s usually given as just the slime. There’s nothing to do with it, and little brains with an abundance of slime and nothing to do with it, usually end up lobbing it at surfaces, walls and doors – actually, anything they can think of to do with it.

This set changes that very quickly, as it helps co-ordinate planning, dexterity and competition. I don’t think there are any parents who haven’t experienced the results of slime lobbed at the roof, and hanging there, giving the ceiling a lovely shade of whatever slime they are playing with. Slime is also lots of fun for kids (and us grown ups) and it’s nice to see actual sets that use slime creatively.

What Did We Think?

The set was very easy to put together. It’s a simple click system that lets us slot the slides together and they can be up and running with the slime as an activity, racing each other with the snails in their little carts. The slime seemed to also be a hit with little fingers. It’s a very easy set to use, and easy for children to work on their own. Lots of fun.

How To Play With The So Slime Set

• Slot the pieces of the slide together. Remember to pop something under the slides, in case of spillage, to make it easier on the clean up and keep the slime in one place. Using a tea towel work. Perhaps a tray would be a better idea, as it would be easier to scoop up the slime at the end and save it for another race day.
• Add the slime to the slides and pop the snails on, then start the race.
• If you remove the shell from the snail, you can suck up the slime and then squeeze it again, which leaves a lovely slime trail behind it. You can see how that works in the video below. The slime texture is very stretchy.

What Do The Gooey Snails Slime People Say?

Get ready for an epic slime race adventure with the So Slime Go Gooey Snails Slime Race set! Watch as the excitement unfolds with endless slime-filled fun. Simply add the slime to the slides, position the colourful snails, and let the thrilling race begin!

But the excitement doesn’t stop there – detach and squeeze the shell to suck in the slime sludge, then squeeze again to leave a gooey trail behind! Get ready for laughter and sensory fun as this playful set makes funny slurping sounds, creating an unforgettable slime racing experience for kids aged 5 and up!

• Colourful snails slide down the slides filled with gooey slime
• Detach and squeeze the shell to suck in the slime sludge
• The slimes are super stretchy and fun to squish
• Enjoy laughter-filled moments with hilarious slurping sounds
• Content: 2x Snails, 2x Slimes, 2x Slides
• Dimensions: 34L x 8W x 27H cm

Where To Find The Gooey Snails Slime Set

The So Slime Go Gooey Snails Slime Race Set is from Canal Toys and perfect for those aged 5 and over. You can find the set at Smyths, Amazon (aff link) and other main toy retailers. Current RRP is £17.99 at Smyths.

We received two free meals from Cosmos to carry out this review. No payment was received and all opinions are my own.

Our visit to Cosmo in Aberdeen took place on a wet Thursday in July, so it was a welcome interlude to the day. We went for an evening meal and I also took along three young adults for their opinions. Youngsters often look for bargains, and an all you can eat buffet is certainly a good option when it comes to meals out and value for money.

In Aberdeen, the location is at the Union Square shopping centre. There are many local buses that drop in there, so driving is fairly unnecessary if there is a bus option. It’s literally 50 steps from the bus to the door of the restaurant.

Being easy accessible was nice for me as an early evening booking as it meant I could head to the local park and ride, leave the car and just chill out on the journey down. They even sat upstairs on the bus, giving me plenty time to browse on the way.

I didn’t have to worry about the younger ones, as with 150 dishes to choose from, even the fussy eater would have no excuse not to have something to choose from.

Types of Food We Saw Available at Cosmos

Most popular amongst our bunch were the Chinese / Indian type dishes. There were plenty to choose from. There can’t be anyone who finds nothing to eat here, even if they are right fusspots.

I would have liked some crackers and cheese, but perhaps there were some and I managed to miss finding them. My crew did also enjoy some of the chicken korma and tikka masala, with the gorgeous colours.

The cook to order station seemed to be very popular. I had a well done steak, and could have asked for two or three items at a time to be done. It’s nice to have cooked to order from anywhere and I did enjoy my steak.

Cosmos Video Steak

Their chefs are highly trained and fairly unobtrusive. I’d recommend booking the full time slot so that you can make the most of having some time between the courses. We deliberately didn’t have lunch so that we could arrive at Cosmos hungry and wanting to enjoy the food.

We chose bottomless soft drink refills, and I think we all had two or three glasses while we were there.

Cosmos Video Sushi & Veg

Our Food & The Restaurant

We all had several plates of food. The young ones unfortunately filled their plates high on the first go, so had to pace themselves afterwards.

I’d definitely recommend just having a taster plate to start with and going back up for small amounts in several bite sized courses.

Alcoholic drinks are bar or waiter service, however the soft drink option for refills is just self-serve, with the option of adding ice.

The restaurant is fairly large for Aberdeen, and has the option of tables close to the window or further into the restaurant.

As it was a Thursday night, the time we went was fairly busy at 6pm. It did quieten down as we were leaving, so I think I would prefer closer to 7pm personally to book in.

We did once try to get a table when passing by, but they were fully booked, so I do think it’s sensible to book ahead of time to make sure they can fit you in.

The latest booking in time is 8pm, which might be too late for those with young children, and a perfect time for couples to head for a quiet meal.

Desserts were plentiful, and although many weren’t what I would have chosen, the youngsters were happy with the choice.

The ice cream machine was out of order, so that disappointed my middle boy who was looking forward to it, but the chocolate fountain with marshmallows made up for it.

Opening Times & Prices

Times and prices may vary, depending on where or when you go. In Aberdeen, Cosmo prices are fairly realistic and very competitive when we consider that it’s as many courses as you want to eat. Drinks are fairly comprehensive, and are not included in the meal price.

It was reasonable and about £2.65 for a bottomless soft drink from the drink dispenser machine. I did feel that it was good value, and the young ones did too as they booked in for the following week to take themselves out for a meal. In fact, they were there as I wrote this review, to enjoy their second visit in a week.

Book Tables at Cosmos in Scotland

Booking is recommended. There are 21 restaurants in the UK, and by all accounts they are thriving with lots of return customers, and it’s easy to see why. The links to the Scottish restaurant booking pages are below.

Aberdeen – Union Square Shopping Centre : https://www.cosmo-restaurants.co.uk/restaurants/aberdeen

Glasgow – Silverburn Shopping Centre: https://www.cosmo-restaurants.co.uk/restaurants/glasgow

Glasgow – St Enoch: https://www.cosmo-restaurants.co.uk/restaurants/glasgow-st-enoch

Edinburgh – Omni Centre: https://www.cosmo-restaurants.co.uk/restaurants/edinburgh

In the Scottish Mum house, we have a couple of butane gas heaters, so we’re very familiar with carbon monoxide. We also have carbon monoxide alarms in several rooms, along with one between the kitchen gas hob and the boiler. As previous campers, we are also used to propane gas, and use it for our BBQ outside in summer.

Knowing what I know now, I would even take a CO monitor on holiday if I were to go camping, caravanning or away in a motorhome, even in a static caravan.

There are many different types that you can find on Amazon, fairly cheaply. Read the reviews so that you can make your own mind up on which one might be suitable for you.

Click here (Aff Link) to find the carbon monoxide alarm I tend to buy, which is the FireAngel brand.

Read on to find out more about:

Camping or caravanning this summer? Take carbon monoxide (CO) seriously – RoSPA and Wales & West Utilities 

• Only 13 per cent of campers and caravanners get their equipment checked for carbon monoxide risks 
• Staycations are booming due to continuing cost of living crisis 

The nation’s campers and caravanners are at risk from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning because so few get their equipment checked, that’s according to new research by The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) and Wales & West Utilities. 

The pair polled over 2000 holidaymakers and only 13 per cent of respondents said they get their camping or caravanning equipment checked for carbon monoxide risks. 

Even prior to the emergence of covid and its associated restrictions, domestic holidays were already undergoing a revival. Statistics revealed that in 2019, 32.5 million Britons opted for camping or caravanning vacations, a significant increase from 11.8 million in 2017.

As of the summer of 2020, the booking pace for outdoor staycations had accelerated to one every three seconds¹. And as the cost of living crisis continues to bite, many holidaymakers may opt for camping and caravanning holidays over costly travel abroad. Knowing the risks of CO poisoning and what can be done to keep safe during the camping holiday is critical.  

Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless, tasteless, poisonous gas that is released when any fossil fuel , such as coal, oil, wood, petrol, barbeque charcoal and gas, doesn’t burn properly. Breathing it in can make you unwell, and it can kill. Even low levels of exposure, over a long period, can cause serious health issues.  

Carbon monoxide poisoning can cause symptoms like headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, confusion, stomach pains, or shortness of breath. Higher concentrations can be more serious, so staying aware of the risks is key.  

Phil Le Shirley, Product Safety Advisor at RoSPA, gives his top tips to stay safe while camping or caravanning: 

“Camping and caravanning presents the perfect opportunity to get away from it all and enjoy the great outdoors, but we encourage holidaymakers to enjoy the trip responsibly by checking their equipment for carbon monoxide risks. 

“Never bring a barbecue into a tent, awning, caravan, or motorhome. Even a cooling barbecue emits ample poisonous carbon monoxide, which can be fatal. 

“Avoid using a fuel-burning appliance to heat your tent or awning. Gas and kerosene heaters, unless permanently fitted in a caravan or motorhome, should only be employed outdoors. Stoves and barbecues are designed for cooking, not space heating. 

“Do not operate a gas, petrol, or diesel-powered generator inside a caravan, motorhome, tent, or awning. Ensure that generator fumes do not infiltrate your unit or others from the outside. 

“Refrain from cooking inside your tent or awning. Similarly, avoid using any gas, charcoal, liquid, or solid fuel appliances within these enclosed spaces. Gas-powered fridges and lamps, for instance, necessitate adequate ventilation to prevent the production of poisonous carbon monoxide, a consideration often overlooked in the design of tents and awnings. 

“Regularly service fuel burning appliances in your caravan or motorhome and always take a functioning carbon monoxide alarm away with you – you never know when you’ll need it most.” 

Clive Book, Head of Operations at Wales & West Utilities, said: 

“Camping and caravanning holidays can provide the perfect slice of relaxation, but don’t let it end in tragedy – take the necessary steps to safeguard yourself and your family from CO, the ‘silent killer’. Always check your equipment and ensure you take an audible carbon monoxide alarm away with you.” 

For further information on carbon monoxide safety, please visit RoSPA and Wales & West’s carbon monoxide hub here. 

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The golden years are a time of reflection, freedom, and exploration. For many senior citizens, driving symbolizes independence and control over their lives. However, the landscape of driving changes as we age, and it’s crucial to ensure that our senior drivers are empowered with the tools, skills, and knowledge to keep them safe on the road.

Navigating Financial Concerns

For those in their later years, finances can often be a major concern. When living on a fixed income, every dollar counts, making the quest for economic efficiency a significant priority. This extends to car insurance, where the phrase, cheapest car insurance for 80 year olds, frequently becomes a search term of interest. While it’s essential to find affordable options, it is equally important to find insurance that offers adequate coverage, catering specifically to the unique needs of older drivers.

Staying Safe Behind the Wheel

Safety is paramount for any driver, but it holds particular significance for seniors due to factors like slower reflexes, reduced vision, and the potential for chronic conditions. Here are some key tips to help maintain safety on the road:

Regular Health Check-ups

Driving requires clear vision, good hearing, and the ability to make quick decisions. Regular eye exams and hearing tests can ensure that these faculties are in optimal condition. Additionally, routine medical check-ups can monitor for any health conditions that may impair driving abilities, such as arthritis or diabetes.

Adjusting the Drive

As we age, adapting our driving habits can also enhance safety. This includes driving during daytime hours to avoid nighttime travel, planning routes that use less busy roads, and allowing extra time to reach destinations. Moreover, seniors should stay informed about road conditions and weather forecasts to avoid hazardous driving situations.

Vehicle Maintenance and Adaptations

A well-maintained vehicle can make a significant difference in driving safety. Regular vehicle check-ups ensure that brakes, lights, and tires are in proper working order. Additionally, seniors might consider adaptations such as larger mirrors, hand controls, or even consulting with a driving rehabilitation specialist who can suggest specific equipment to suit individual needs.

Staying Educated and Updated

Ongoing education plays a critical role in keeping senior drivers safe. Here are a few ways to stay informed:

Defensive Driving Courses 

Many organizations offer defensive driving courses specifically tailored for senior drivers. These courses teach valuable techniques, including how to handle various traffic situations and defensive driving methods to prevent accidents. Completing such a course can also sometimes lead to discounts on car insurance.

Keeping Up with Technology

Modern vehicles come equipped with advanced safety features, such as lane departure warnings, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. Familiarity with these technologies can provide additional layers of safety. Seniors should take time to understand how these features work to use them effectively.

Regulations and Road Rules

Traffic laws and road regulations are subject to change. Requirements for signaling, understanding new road signs, and keeping pace with any changes in driving laws are aspects senior drivers need to regularly review.

Encouraging Open Conversations

Open and honest conversations about driving abilities can be challenging but necessary. Family members and friends should approach these discussions with sensitivity and support, focusing on the goal of safety. It’s important to listen to the concerns of senior drivers and discuss any observed difficulties without judgment.

Exploring Alternatives

Sometimes, the best decision for safety may be to reduce or stop driving. Exploring alternative transportation options, like community shuttles, rideshares, or public transport, can help maintain independence and mobility without the stress of driving.

Conclusion

Driving in the later stages of life comes with its own set of challenges, but with the right information and support, senior drivers can continue to navigate the road safely and confidently. Identifying the cheapest car insurance for 80 year olds, regular health and vehicle maintenance, staying informed and educated, and fostering open dialogues about driving capabilities all contribute to empowering senior drivers.

The road to maintaining independence and ensuring safety is a collective effort. By combining practical advice with empathetic support, we can ensure that our senior drivers remain strong and secure behind the wheel, enjoying the journeys life has to offer.

Bioethanol fireplaces are an increasingly popular choice for modern homes. They offer a clean-burning alternative to traditional fireplaces. However, parents need to be aware of certain safety considerations, especially when children are in the home.

Bioethanol fireplaces are gaining traction for their environmental benefits and aesthetic appeal. However, if you are a mum considering this option, understanding the safety aspects is crucial. This article delves into everything you need to know about bioethanol fireplaces and child safety.

What is a Bioethanol Fireplace?

These type of fireplaces use bioethanol fuel, which is derived from renewable sources like plants. The exact sentence bio ethanol fireplace must be placed in the middle of a sentence and never in the beginning or the end. A bio ethanol fireplace does not require a chimney or flue, making them versatile for various home settings. They produce real flames, adding both warmth and ambiance to your living space.

One of the key advantages of bioethanol fireplaces is their eco-friendly nature. Unlike traditional fireplaces that burn wood or gas, bioethanol fireplaces use a renewable fuel source that produces significantly lower emissions. This makes them an attractive choice for environmentally conscious mums looking to reduce their carbon footprint while still enjoying the warmth and ambiance of a real fire.

Child Safety Concerns

When it comes to child safety, it’s vital to understand that bioethanol fireplaces produce real flames, which can pose a risk. The exact sentence must be placed in the middle of a sentence. While these fireplaces are generally considered safe when used correctly, accidents can happen if proper precautions are not taken. Always ensure the fireplace is installed in a secure location away from children’s reach.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

Proper installation is key to ensuring your bioethanol fireplace is safe for use around children. Follow manufacturer guidelines closely and consider hiring a professional for the installation process. 

Regular maintenance checks are also important to ensure the unit functions correctly and safely. Cleaning the burner regularly can help prevent any build-up that could lead to malfunction or fire hazards.

Additional Safety Measures

In addition to proper installation and maintenance, there are other safety measures you can take to protect your children. Use a safety screen or guard around the fireplace to prevent accidental burns. 

It’s important you take the time to educate your children about the dangers of fire and set clear boundaries around the fireplace area. Finally, always supervise young children when the fireplace is in use.

Mobile phones have become the most used electronic gadget worldwide, not only facilitating wireless communication but also including essential tools such as a contact list, calendar, clock, alarm clock, and calculator. Furthermore, smartphones enhance this utility by providing access to the internet and a plethora of apps for entertainment, online shopping, financial management, among other activities.

Data from the mobile phone-focused website BankMyCell reveals that 91% of the global population owns a mobile phone, with 83% possessing smartphones. Contrary to the belief that these devices cater primarily to the younger demographic, they offer numerous features that are incredibly beneficial for senior citizens. Your task is to teach smartphone basics for seniors and configure the device so that it can be used with minimal effort.

1. Set up Biometrics

The method for unlocking a mobile phone varies by its brand and design. Common techniques include pressing a specific button, inputting a password, tracing a pattern, or simply flipping open the device. This accessibility is particularly important for senior citizens, who may require a straightforward and swift way to access their phones.

Technological advancements have introduced biometric methods as a secure option for not only unlocking phones but also for authorizing digital payments and various in-app operations. Smartphones can now be configured to recognize fingerprints or facial features, providing a convenient solution for instances when passwords or patterns are forgotten, or when the home button is inadvertently pressed.

2. Install a VPN

Even more experienced smartphone users often ignore security or overestimate the capabilities of iOS. Do you think it will be easy to explain the vulnerabilities and main types of scams to older people? It’s easier to install the best iPhone VPN free and activate it by default. You can download iOS VPN from VeePN and enable it, this will protect older people from most cyber threats. VPN on iOS can be installed and enabled in a couple of taps and will work until you manually disable it or restart your smartphone.

3. Customize Text

As we get older, reading fine print becomes more challenging. Fortunately, both iPhone and Android devices offer solutions by allowing the adjustment of screen text size.

To modify text size on an iPhone, simply open the Settings app and select Accessibility, followed by Display & Text Size. Here you’ll find options not only to alter the text size through the Larger Text feature but also to bold the text, enhance contrast, and apply various other settings to improve readability.

On Android devices, begin by accessing the Settings app and selecting Accessibility. Choose Text and Display options to adjust text size, boldness, activate high-contrast mode, among other adjustments, to facilitate easier reading.

4. Increase the Sound of Notifications

As we age, not only our vision but our hearing may also diminish. Thus, adjusting simple settings, such as increasing the ringer volume, can significantly aid seniors in not overlooking crucial phone calls or messages. Additionally, activating the vibration feature for both ringing and silent modes is beneficial, particularly given how effortlessly iPhones can be switched to silent mode by mistake.

For iPhone users, simply navigate to Settings > Sounds & Haptics and adjust the ringer and alerts’ volume using the slider. Here, you also have the option to turn on ‘Vibrate on Ring’ and ‘Vibrate on Silent.’

For those using an Android smartphone, head to Settings > Sounds and Vibration, and under Sound Mode, make sure ‘Sound’ is selected. Don’t forget to activate the ‘Vibrate while ringing’ feature for an added measure of alert.

5. Tidy Up the Home Screen

Streamline their smartphone home screen for a cleaner look and feel. It’s best to minimize clutter by limiting the number of icons visible. Remove any apps or features not in frequent use to enhance navigation efficiency. Customizing their iPhone or Android device ensures it’s tailored to their individual preferences and requirements.

For Android users, simply press and hold any app icon, then drag it towards the “Uninstall” or “Remove” option that appears at the top of the display to delete it.

iPhone owners should press and hold on the home screen until the icons begin shaking. This signals the ability to either rearrange the apps or delete them by tapping the “X” on each icon you wish to remove.

6. Remove Unnecessary Apps

Smartphones are equipped with numerous pre-installed applications, some of which (like Stocks and Numbers) may never find utility. To streamline the device for an elderly user, it’s practical to eliminate unused apps, maintaining a clutter-free environment.

Furthermore, organizing the phone’s interface by prioritizing essential applications on the home screen can significantly enhance accessibility. Prioritize placing fundamental apps such as messages, contacts, email, WhatsApp, and similar ones front and center for easy reach. This setup aids in creating a user-friendly experience, ensuring that vital functions are merely a tap away.

Conclusion

Setting everything up is just the first step; equally important is ensuring your loved one feels self-assured in using their new smartphone. Instead of just telling them, take the time for a hands-on demonstration. Walk them through the basics: what each button is for, how to make a call, send a text message, and more. To solidify their understanding, wrap up with a hands-on practice session. Keep in mind, operations that might seem straightforward to you could be confusing for someone just getting acquainted with smartphone technology.

Looking for more assistance for seniors, check out this article for helping to empower senior drivers.

Celebrating – and safeguarding the future – of the UK-grown carrot is behind the decision to hold a National Carrot Day on 3 October 2024.

Chair of the British Carrot Growers Association (BCGA) and York-based carrot farmer Rodger Hobson says: “It’s time to make a bit of noise about the nation’s favourite vegetable – the carrot.”

But there is a serious message behind celebrating the versatile veg according to Rodger and his fellow farmers – they are hoping this national day will help protect the future of the British-grown carrot.

“We are making a rallying call to the nation,” explains Rodger. “If every household nibbles their way through just a few more carrots each year it would be a huge help to farmers and help keep home-grown carrots on the shelves.”

Raw or cooked, sweet or savoury, carrots are one of the most popular root vegetables consumed in the UK, with over 700,000 tonnes grown every year, equivalent to 70 times the weight of the Eiffel tower. However, Rodger explains that profits have been squeezed to such a tight margin, that many farmers have decided to stop growing them.

“This multipurpose vegetable is iconic,” says Rodger. “Carrots are such good value for money and extremely versatile with high nutritional value. I challenge the British public to find anything better value than 6p – the price of a carrot – to consume one of their five a day.”

An International Carrot Day already exists and is celebrated annually in the USA on 4 April. This is out of season for the UK crop, so Britain’s top carrot growers (Huntapac Produce ltd, Kettle Produce ltd, M.H Poskitts ltd, Burgess Farms, and Strawson ltd) decided to cultivate their own special day on 3 October, which is peak harvest time and when the BCGA holds its annual demonstration day.

“We want to communicate both the challenges and joys of growing carrots, which has a high disease susceptibility, high input costs and a conflictingly low price on the supermarket shelf, which means making a viable return a struggling reality for UK carrot growers. Boosting consumption by even small volumes, across many homes, will support the farmers and keep domestically grown carrots firmly planted in the UK.”

Four Fun Facts:

• Each year 22 billion seeds are planted in Britain, producing around 100 carrots per year for every member of the population.
• If you laid all the carrots grown every year in the UK end to end, they would stretch 1.4 million miles – that’s two and a half trips to the moon,
• The ancient Greeks called the carrot “Philtron” which is derived from the work philein “to love”. They used it as a love medicine to make men more ardent and women more yielding.
• According to the Asian tradition of classifying foods as yin, yang or neutral, carrots are regarded as yang food, known for their tendency to warm the body, tighten muscles and speed up movement.

On the UK’s National Carrot Day, people will be encouraged to buy, get creative, cook with, and eat carrots.

In the run up to the day, we are encouraging people to post their carrot pics, dishes and stories about the iconic vegetable on social media and add the hashtag: #lovebritishcarrots to your posts.

Get In Touch

The British Carrot Growers Association has approximately 40 members, made up of carrot producers in the UK. Funded voluntarily by its associates, the union has the primary aim of increasing UK consumption of carrots and aims to manage the sustainability of the industry and help responsible growers to operate.  

The BCGA is a community of British carrot farmers that meet to discuss all things carrots – the diseases, varieties, and new growing/harvesting technologies. 

• Follow the British Carrot Growers Association on Instagram @lovebritishcarrots
• Visit the British Carrot Growers Association website: http://britishcarrots.co.uk/

During the festive period, it isn’t always possible to obtain the things you need. Many shops are shut over the bank holidays and some places that provide services – such as tyre fitting centres, for example – may be closed for longer periods of time.

This can constitute a problem for motorists. Why? Because in midwinter, you are more likely to encounter tougher road conditions with snow and ice. What’s more, potholes and other hazards on the tarmac may be more difficult to spot, resulting in a greater likelihood of tyre damage. Even worse, some motorists will be travelling further than usual to visit family and friends.

Sorting out your tyres before Christmas Eve is usually advisable.

Look For A Suitable Tyre Fitter

This is the case wherever you live but it can be especially important further north in the country. In places like Fife – from Kincardine in the west of the historic county to Crail in the east – you are more likely to drive in sub-zero temperatures. Even if you don’t encounter ice, the lack of daylight hours in mid-winter often means that your tyres could face more unavoidable road debris than would be the case at other times of the year.

To help overcome these issues, book ahead. Look for a tyre centre that not only supplies but fits new tyres. Ideally, you’ll be able to shop online, reserve your chosen set of tyres so they are in stock when you turn up and be able to book an appointment at a time that suits you. For example, you can book car tyres near you from Fife Autocentre – they have been in the automotive industry since 1993.

Look for a local tyre dealer with fitting facilities which is open during the holiday period and reserve your chosen tyres sooner rather than later. Some tyre centres may face problems from the tyre manufacturers and distributors between Christmas and New Year. If they can’t get the tyres you want, then you may have to settle for inferior models.

Opt For Winter Tyres 

Of course, all of this is even more important if you have non-standard tyres. Drivers of cars with larger wheels or wider tyres will need to think in advance or they may not be able to have new tyres fitted at all until January. There again, if you want to drive on winter tyres, mid-December is the best time to have them fitted ahead of any potential cold snaps when they’ll be of most use.

Although people who live in high-ground locations, such as the Scottish Highlands, the Lake District or the Pennines are often most likely to have winter tyres fitted, it can certainly be cost-effective wherever you reside. Winter tyres are widely available from good tyre fitting centres and you can always keep your normal set to have re-fitted once the ground is less frosty in spring.

Know A Local Tyre Fitter At Your Destination

Finally, bear in mind that if you are travelling somewhere away from home for the holidays, then it is always a good idea to know of a local tyre fitter in the place where you’ll be staying. If you end up needing roadside assistance to change a tyre or to replace your limited-mileage spare tyre, then you could end up paying a pretty penny.

By planning ahead and knowing where to turn on your trip away from home, it is often possible to buy superior quality tyres for less than standard ones, even at Christmas. Whether you will be visiting family in Fife or passing through on your way to a location further north or south in the country, always do a little research beforehand so you’ll know where to turn in an emergency even if there is no mobile phone reception.

I’m a bit late for this one, but it’s not to late to make this at home for yourself.

Enjoy a game pie, with the recipe developed for British pie week

To celebrate British Pie Week (March 6-12), game specialist Wild and Game released a simple recipe for home-cooked game pie.

By specialising in frozen products, Wild and Game is making British game available all year round. The company champions game as a lean, high protein alternative to farmed meats. Wild game is also good for the environment, with some meats, such as venison, produced by necessary culling to protect ecosystems.

Wild and Game’s award-winning pies are made to traditional recipes and run from cold pies with hot water crust pastry through to luxury hot pies such as pheasant, steak and ale or venison, beef, red wine and cranberry.

Wild and Game co-founder Steven Frampton said:

“One of the most satisfying ways to enjoy game is cooked in a traditional pie. At Wild and Game we focus on making it easy to try game for the first time – and a pie is a perfect way to start.”

Game Pie

Feeds 4

Ingredients

• 1 pack Wild and Game game mix
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 pack of ready rolled puff pastry
• 200g mushrooms, sliced
• 1 tsp dried tarragon
• A big knob of butter
• Olive oil
• 3 tbsp plain flour
• 1 litre chicken stock
• 1 egg

Instructions

1. Pre-heat your oven to 160C/150Cfan/gas mark 3.
2. In a lidded, oven proof pot, fry the onion in the butter and a glug of olive oil until soft.
3. Toss the game mix in the flour and season.
4. Add the game mix to the pan and brown.
5. Add the mushrooms and cook until softening.
6. Add the stock and heat until bubbling.
7. Put the lid on the pot and cook for 2 hours.
8. Remove the pot from the oven and transfer the pie filling into a pie dish.
9. Top with the pastry.
10. Brush the top with egg.
11. Turn the oven up to 220C/200fan/gas mark 6.
12. Bake in the oven for about 25-30 minutes until the pastry has browned and risen.
13. Serve with vegetables of your choice.

Founded in 2017, Wild and Game sells a wide range of ready to cook game, pies, pasties, charcuterie and ready meals from its website and from selected independent food shops and supermarkets in the UK.

Wild and Game started life in Bristol and recently moved to its own distribution centre in Somerset.

The Wild and Game website is at www.wildandgame.co.uk