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The perfect Christmas gifts for any home

Helen Greaney
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The perfect Christmas gifts for any home

Independent boutiques and high-street retailers alike offer an impressive range of Christmas gifts for the home. Whether you’re supporting small businesses or browsing the high street for festive finds, our guide has something for everyone.

And let’s be honest—there’s always someone who says, “I don’t need anything.” For them, a thoughtful home gift can be the perfect choice.

While there’s something special about giving a handmade or unique item, we’ve also included options for last-minute shoppers in need of reliable, quick-delivery gifts in time for Christmas Eve.

So, without further ado (yes, we know it’s only Bonfire Night), here are some fantastic gift ideas to suit every budget:

Hokan bowls

For the most versatile cook, they will absolutely adore these Hokan bowls – sustainable, stackable and stylish. Available in a range of gorgeous colours (we love yellow) and in sizes small (400ml), medium (600ml) and large (1000ml), these dishes can happily be used in the microwave, dishwasher or oven. 

hokan

And what is really clever, because the contents is determined by the height, every lid fits every size, so they can be swapped around to suit and used as a side plate or to cover in the fridge – genius.

The bowls heat evenly and retain heat efficiently, while cooking with the lid on keeps moisture in and the temperature stable.

Hokan are proud to partner with The Felix Project who help to feed local communities in London by rescuing surplus food from suppliers and redistributing it to over 1,000 frontline charities and schools. For every small bowl sold, Hokan donates 1.5 meals; for every medium bowl, 3 meals; for every large bowl, 4.5 meals; and for every set of three, 9 meals.

Available to buy:  hokanbowls.com individually or as a set, starting at £24

Smart scales

For someone into nutrition, the Aeno KS1S Smart Kitchen Scale is a handy and stylish prezzie. With a nifty tempered glass surface, you can weigh hot or cold ingredients – and with a database of 10,000 products and meals, it can be used to get handy nutritional analysis for a wide range of foods. 

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And for those waiting for the post-Christmas slump, this is an excellent tool for weight loss, thanks to its smart app funtionality, precise measurements and nutritional tracking. Slim and easy to store, the LED screen is bright and easy to read. It’s an absolute winner for us!

 Available from: Curry’s, £34.99 

Playful picture 

For a nostalgic look back at a favourite character, we absolutely love these beautiful pictures featuring characters from the Peanuts gang. We stumbled upon these exclusive and super cute frames featuring original vintage Snoopy playing cards, double mounted in cream and black, within a black wood box frame. 

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What is super cool, is that the cards are from the 1970s, ensuring each gift is one-of-a-kind. SO with 60 designs featuring Snoopy and the Peanuts gang, these gifts are timeless and thoughtful! There are also fridge magnets and Christmas baubles available.

Available from: Vintage Playing Cards, from £25 

Digital alarm clock

 Arighi Bianchi’s Rise & Play is the ultimate bedside digital alarm clock and Bluetooth speaker. More than just an alarm clock, it’s a wireless entertainment hub that will brighten any bedside table. 

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Connect your smartphone via Bluetooth and wake up with your favourite tunes, while staying on track with the intuitive digital display. Rise & Play combines style and functionality with three alarm modes, customisable brightness, and optional date and temperature display. Available in three fun colours – yellow, orange, and purple.

Available to buy: Arighibianchi.co.uk, from £25

Scented candle

For the ultimate relaxation aroma, why not treat your loved ones to a gorgeous scented candle from the Copenhagen company? Perfect for any lounge, dining room, bathroom or bedroom, we just love these signature smells, especially the grapefruit which is an elegant citrus fragrance centred around the zingyness.

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The signature hotel collection sizes are available in classic, medium and large – and are made from a natural wax blend and cotton wicks, to deliver a clean burn all day long. 

Available to buy: thecopenhagencompany.com, from £13

Festive bedding

There’s nothing better than getting into a freshly made bed. So why not welcome in the festive season with the Catherine Lansfield Cosy Soft Christmas Tree Bedding Set? We love the super cute design – mini Christmas trees on a luxuriously soft velvet base. And better still – the reverse is lined with a warm sherpa fabric for extra comfort. 

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Transform your bedroom into a cozy Christmas wonderland while enjoying the classic touch it adds to your decor. This set is available in single, double, kingsize and super kingsize with matching pillow cases.

Available to buy: Terrysfabrics, from £27.10

Disney throw

Cuddle up on the couch this Christmas with this fantastic find from Asda! It’s the green and white Disney Mickey Mouse Checkerboard Sherpa Throw, which is 120cm x 150cm.

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It can be washed at 30 degrees as well as tumble dried, making it the perfect couch companion or bed spread – and it’s just the most gorgeous gift for Disney fans old and young.

Available to buy: Asda.com, £14

New event will inspire the Bolton business community

News Desk
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New event will inspire the Bolton business community

Oxford Innovation has launched a free event for startup and growing businesses in Bolton. The event supports Bolton’s strategy for becoming a thriving business hub in the North West.

The upcoming event, ‘Masterclass: Design Thinking and Creative Problem Solving in Business’ will be held from 10am to 3pm on November 13, at The Wellsprings, the new office and innovation centre that is opening soon to support start-ups, growing businesses and entrepreneurs in and around Bolton.

At the Masterclass event, hosted by Naomi Timperley (pictured), attendees will learn about design thinking and how it can change their approach to problem solving and innovative thinking.

After Bolton Council marked the successful completion of the regeneration of the building in September 2024, Oxford Innovation is due to manage The Wellsprings on the council’s behalf once it opens its doors later this year.

As the leading operator of innovation centres across the UK and Ireland, Oxford Innovation provides businesses with advice, coaching, mentoring and prides itself on building vibrant business communities.

Nick Brushett, centre manager for The Wellsprings, said: “There’s considerable investment and regeneration happening in Bolton right now and it’s an exciting time for startups and entrepreneurs looking to start a new venture or level up an existing business in the town.

“Events from Oxford Innovation promise to inspire and inform the business community in Bolton, Greater Manchester and the North West, and are just the start of us building a vibrant network within the town.”

The event is free of charge. People can find out more details and register here: https://wellspringsbolton.co.uk/events/

Manchester United players make young fans’ dreams come true

Helen Greaney
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Manchester United players make young fans’ dreams come true

Manchester United’s men’s team made precious memories for young supporters with life-limiting illnesses, at Manchester United Foundation’s latest Dream Day.

Players including club captain Bruno Fernandes, Rasmus Højlund, Alejandro Garnacho and interim head coach Ruud van Nistelrooy took time away from football to meet young fans with serious illnesses at Carrington.

The heartwarming event, which takes place twice a season, gives Reds from across the country the opportunity to visit the training ground and meet their heroes.

Youngsters aged between 8-18 years old were among those attending what proved to be a very emotional day, beaming with joy as they chatted and posed for photos with their footballing idols.

Bruno said: “We know how much this means to the kids to be here with us – even if it’s only for a little moment to make them happy, it means the world to us.

“I think as a player, we always have a responsibility to our fans, and if we can help in any way to make their day a little bit better, then why not? It’s always good to hear their stories and to do things that will make them happy, so I’m really pleased that today I’ve met them and that the kids have loved it.”

Amad said: “It was really nice to see the young kids coming to the training ground today and enjoying themselves. It’s important to help people not only on the pitch, but also outside of the pitch, it always puts a smile on my face.”

Morgan (14) (pictured with Amad) couldn’t get enough of the once-in-a-lifetime experience and was able to meet all his favourite players and get their autographs.

His dad, Paul, said: “It’s really important that Morgan can experience something like this; it’s not every day that you get this opportunity, especially when you’re obsessed with football. To meet the players, have a chat with them, get a picture – it’s fantastic for us as parents to watch, see and enjoy. It’s dreams that we would love to give the children that we can’t always give them.”

Public consultations begin today for sustainable homes plan

Helen Greaney
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Public consultations begin today for sustainable homes plan

A further £5.1 million council funding has been approved to progress the next four This City development sites to the planning submission stage.

The plan aims to bring forward around 600 new sustainable houses, of which at least 20% will be affordable homes.

The new projects include sites in north and east Manchester, alongside a city centre development, that will each use brownfield land to increase new home building in the city.

The new funding will support initial design work and surveying costs that are necessary to deliver a planning application next year – and engagement on two new sites will begin this week for:

Hyde Road, east Manchester – around 150 homes

  • The sites include land off Hyde Rd and Kirkmenshulme Lane, adjacent to the Co-op Academy Belle Vue
  • Engagement event will take place tomorrow between 3.30pm and 7pm at Longsight and District Sports and Social Club, 140 Kirkmanshulme Ln, Manchester M12 4WB

Monsall, north Manchester – around 175 homes in the first phase (multiple phases in the future)

  • The sites include land adjacent to Monsall Road and Upper Monsall Street, north of the Monsall Metrolink Stop (pictured).
  • Engagement event will take place on Wednesday (November 6) between 3.30pm and 7pm at the Dance Hall, Manchester Communication Academy Secondary School, 2 Silchester Dr, Manchester M40 8NT

These are informal events where the public can meet the design team, ask questions about the development opportunities at each site and give their feedback about what it’s like to live in the local area.

Attendees to the events will have the chance to view information boards that give headline detail about This City and the proposed housing investment in their area and share their experiences through prompts and activities.

Feedback can also be given via email: [email protected]

Following this initial public engagement, design work will be progressed ahead of further formal public consultation early 2025.

Planning application for these two sites are expected later in 2025 with the aspiration to start on site before the end of the 2025 financial year.

The next two This City developments include:
  • Postal Street, Northern Quarter – an estimated 130 homes

The demolition of the former single-story commercial building has already been completed, allowing design to progress. This funding will support the project through to the planning stage, and This City are aiming for a public engagement event in early 2025 with a target start on site before the end of the 2025 financial year.

  • Grey Mare Lane, east Manchester – an estimated 150 homes

Masterplanning for the Grey Mare Lane estate has already been completed as part of a partnership between Manchester City Council, Great Place Housing Group, One Manchester and This City to deliver a whole estate regeneration package in east Manchester. Early design work is now underway ahead of further targeted engagement from This City which will begin in the first half of 2025.

No1 Ancoats Green (formerly Rodney Street development) will deliver 129 new homes, including 119 apartments and 10 town houses. 30% of these homes will be made available at the Manchester Living Rent. Completion of this scheme is expected in the summer of 2025.

No 1 Ancoats Green will overlook a transformed Ancoats Green, with the development site moving seamlessly into the improved city centre park. This investment will include new walking and cycling routes through the neighbourhood, along with significant new planting – wildflower and wetland planting, and a range of new trees, alongside new accessible play equipment and open grassed areas.

Councillor Gavin White said: “This City is an innovative approach to increasing the number of homes being built in our city. This company allows us to build directly on council-owned brownfield land on our own terms.

“Building the homes that our residents need, particularly sustainable and genuinely affordable homes, is challenging, but This City is giving us the opportunity to take control of our own home development and deliver the type of housing we know our city needs on our own terms.

“It’s fantastic to see the next tranche of sites come forward quickly with the potential to deliver around 1,500 homes through future phases, and we could see development begin as soon as next year.

“Local people in Monsall and Longsight now have the opportunity to find out more about proposed new housing in their area and I would urge people to get along to events this week to find out more, ask questions and give feedback.”

Police seek witnesses following attempted knife point robbery in Ardwick

Helen Greaney
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Police seek witnesses following attempted knife point robbery in Ardwick

Officers are appealing to speak to individuals who could assist them following reports of an attempted knife point robbery in Ardwick.

The incident happened on Ardwick Green South at around 3.40pm on Sunday.

It was reported that the victim was riding on his moped when he was threatened with a knife and assaulted, resulting in him being pushed off his vehicle.

The victim sustained minor injuries and was treated by paramedics at the scene.

Officers investigating this incident have followed up with several lines of enquiry and are now in a position to ask for the public’s assistance.

Anyone who anything suspicious on Ardwick Green around 3.40pm, or has information, is asked to call 101 quoting log 2050 of 03/11/2024.

Alternatively, you can remain anonymous by contacting independent charity, Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.

University of Manchester launches report addressing its impact on UN Sustainable Development Goals

Helen Greaney
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University of Manchester launches report addressing its impact on UN Sustainable Development Goals

The University of Manchester has released a new report setting out how it is tackling the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

As the UK’s first university to have social responsibility as a core goal, The University of Manchester is committed to supporting the 17 issues outlined by the UN as the most pressing facing humanity and the natural world, which include quality education, gender equality, reduced inequalities, climate action and sustainable cities and communities.

The University of Manchester is facing these challenges head on and, for 200 years, it has responded to the needs of its city, the nation and the world. The university understands there is a profound obligation on great research universities to meet the challenges set out in the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The university’s strategy to meet these challenges is comprised of four inter-related strands: research, learning and students, public engagement and operations.

In the Times Higher Education Impact rankings, based on performance across the 17 goals, The University of Manchester is the top-ranked institution in the UK and in Europe, and second in the world.

Manchester is the only university in the world to have featured in the global top 10 each year since the rankings were established in 2019.

The university is also proud to be the top performing institution in Europe for Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) performance in the QS World University Sustainability Rankings.

Dr Julian Skyrme, executive director of social responsibility and civic engagement, said: “This latest publication summarises some key ways that we’re addressing the world’s biggest action plan, reflected in the 17 United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. It is part of our broader commitment to reporting and sharing progress towards these important global goals.”

The report outlines that The University of Manchester published more than 22,000 pieces of research on the Sustainable Development Goals over the past five years, which is 4% of the UK’s entire share of publications.

It details teaching and learning programmes that address the SDGs, such as the ‘Creating a Sustainable World’ interdisciplinary unit.

The report also draws attention to the role of the university’s four cultural institutions, other initiatives that are engaging the public with the goals, and the ways in which people, estate and finance operations are contributing to sustainable development.

It is hoped the report stimulates the exchange of ideas, collaboration opportunities and partnerships so that, together, everyone can play a role in tackling these crucial goals by 2030.

Win Christmas by visiting Stockport fitted furniture showroom

Helen Greaney
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Win Christmas by visiting Stockport fitted furniture showroom

Stockport residents are in for a festive treat with My Fitted Bedroom & Kitchen’s exclusive ‘Win Christmas’ event.

Visit the Factory Showroom on Buxton Road (A6), Heavily, and book a free design consultation before mid-December to enter a draw for a £500 shopping voucher!

From now until mid-December, anyone who books a complimentary bedroom or kitchen design consultation at the showroom will automatically be entered into a draw for a chance to win a £500 shopping voucher, just in time for Christmas! The lucky winner will be chosen at random on December 16.

 Neil Coote, showroom manager, said: “Tis the season of giving, and our ‘Win Christmas’ event is our way of saying thank you to everyone who visits us in-person for a design appointment. Whether you’re looking for inspiration or ready to plan your dream fitted bedroom or kitchen, our showroom is the perfect place to explore ideas and work with our experts. Plus, every in-showroom consultation is absolutely free!”

While My Fitted Bedroom operates nationally online, this special Win Christmas event is exclusive to the showroom and visitors are encouraged to book their design consultation early, as entries are limited to appointments held before the festive season.

Located on the A6 in Heavily, the Stockport showroom showcases an inspiring range of fitted kitchens and bedrooms, bespoke media rooms, home office solutions, and luxurious walk-in wardrobes. It offers a hands-on experience for homeowners to explore the latest designs, colours, and layouts.

A My Fitted Bedroom & Kitchen design appointment is a great way to work with an expert designer to explore unique options and innovative ideas that will maximise every inch of space with smart storage solutions, even those awkward corners and empty alcoves. State-of-the-art 3D software allows customers to experiment with different combinations and visualise how the beautifully handcrafted fitted furniture will look in their space.

To book appointments visit myfittedbedroomsandkitchens.com  or call 0161 476 1380.

Social gastronomy summit in Adana focuses on sustainability

News Desk
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Social gastronomy summit in Adana focuses on sustainability

Adana recently made headlines by hosting Türkiye’s first-ever summit on social gastronomy and agriculture in October, part of the 8th International Taste of Adana Festival. Organised under the guidance of the Adana Governor’s Office and the Switzerland-based Social Gastronomy Movement (SGM), the event focused on food sustainability, local farming practices, soil health, irrigation methods, and agriculture’s environmental footprint. The summit drew international attendees, including chefs, farmers, and entrepreneurs from countries like Switzerland, the Netherlands, Mexico, the USA, and the Philippines.

The summit was led by Chef Ebru Baybara Demir, the first Turkish chef to win the 2023 Basque Culinary World Prize and recognised by the UNFAO as a Global Food Hero. The event brought together international delegates with local farmers, chefs, and entrepreneurs from Çukurova, aiming to address the future of agriculture and offer sustainable solutions to global challenges.

One notable initiative during the summit was the Universal Plate, a project launched by SGM and implemented simultaneously in 40 countries. Celebrating World Food Day, chefs and participants in Adana prepared and distributed meals to 2,500 people, joining global efforts to promote equal access to nutritious food.

A shared vision for sustainable food systems

“Our objective with this summit is to unite the key players in food sustainability—farmers, chefs, scientists, and community leaders—under a single vision. Partnering with the Social Gastronomy Movement demonstrates the deep connection between agriculture, food, and social change,” explained Ebru Baybara Demir. “I believe this summit will be a foundation for future collaborations focused on addressing soil health, food security, and sustainable agricultural development.”

Themed “Taste of the Soil,” the summit brought together a diverse range of participants, from local farmers and international experts to government officials and students from agricultural faculties. The discussions aimed to tackle today’s agricultural challenges and find forward-looking solutions.

Among the main topics discussed was soil health and its significance for sustainable farming. The Çukurova region, renowned for its fertile lands, was highlighted as an example of where sustainable practices could be implemented and scaled globally. Water management and efficient irrigation methods were also key points of discussion, as experts underscored the effects of climate change and the need to conserve water to sustain crop production.

Nicola Gryczka, co-founder of SGM, noted, “Food sustainability extends beyond farming and cooking; it’s about creating an ecosystem where each person has a role, from the farm to the table. By fostering education, diversity, and collaboration, we can build resilient food systems that serve everyone.” He added, “Adana’s Agriculture Summit marks the start of a journey. We hope this collaboration strengthens our efforts to create a more inclusive and sustainable food future, laying the groundwork for future initiatives.”

Local perspectives and future goals

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Local officials stressed the importance of the summit for Adana and its potential to inspire wider agricultural developments. Governor Yavuz Selim Köşger noted, “Adana’s diverse agricultural output is proof of the region’s fertile soil. Ensuring safe and accessible food from soil to fork remains a key priority.”

Mayor Zeydan Karalar spoke about the importance of Adana’s agricultural landscape: “Adana has one of the most fertile plains in the world, enriched by its rivers. As climate change increases risks for agriculture, it is essential to protect and harness our lands. Every crop grown must retain its value, and we are dedicated to ensuring this.”

For more information on the summit and its initiatives, visit the Taste of Adana Festival’s website.

Contact: Karolin Ergin | O2 İletişim | [email protected] | 05323845711

Brazilian Grand Prix 2024 Results: Verstappen Takes ‘Unbelievable’ First F1 Win Since June

Ben Miller
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Brazilian Grand Prix 2024 Results: Verstappen Takes ‘Unbelievable’ First F1 Win Since June

Max Verstappen said he had been through an emotional “rollercoaster” after surging from 17th to win the Brazilian Grand Prix 2024 and put himself on the brink of retaining his Formula One world title with a first F1 triumph since June.

In a race featuring a red flag and two safety car appearances among a slew of incidents, Verstappen – demoted from 12th to 17th on the starting grid in a penalty for exceeding his engine allowance with a new power unit – soared six places on lap one and profited from Red Bull’s decision to resist pitting early.

Verstappen overtook Esteban Ocon on lap 43 and stormed to victory by more than 19 seconds, with his nearest rival in the driver standings, Lando Norris, taking sixth.

Sao Paulo GP: Verstappen Wins

“We stayed out of trouble, made the right calls and stayed calm,” said Verstappen. “We were flying. All of these things together made that result possible.

“I mean, unbelievable – to win here from so far back on the grid. It’s very hard to pass around here with the new tarmac. There’s only one line you can take but I just knew that I had to go for it.”

Norris is 62 points behind Verstappen with 86 points and three races of the 2024 season remaining.

Brazilian Grand Prix Results

Ocon missed out on a second ever race win but helped lift Alpine to sixth in the constructors’ championship by finishing second on a podium completed by team-mate Pierre Gasly.

“What a day that was,” reflected the Frenchman. “After a difficult season, it’s really nice to be driving here and having the performance levelled out in the rain.

“Someone very important to all of us said a long time ago that in the rain the cars are almost equal. That phrase didn’t age at all.

“I’m very happy today to be on podium. It’s been awesome and the support I receive here from all the Brazilian fans is incredible. I can’t thank everyone enough.

“The car was extremely difficult on the dry and it felt at ease when it started to rain.

“I really wanted to get some laps in the rain. I love it here in the rain. Today has brought a special race for us.”

Brazilian Grand Prix 2024: Piastri on F1 sprint pole as Norris says he ‘hates’ Verstappen questions

Ben Miller
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Brazilian Grand Prix 2024: Piastri on F1 sprint pole as Norris says he ‘hates’ Verstappen questions

Oscar Piastri plans to “make sure it stays that way” after taking pole position in qualifying for Saturday’s sprint at the Brazilian Grand Prix 2024.

McLaren’s Piastri will start immediately ahead of team-mate Lando Norris on the grid, with Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc third and reigning world champion Max Verstappen, of Red Bull, in fourth.

“My first lap didn’t feel amazing but I knew that there were a few places to improve,” said Piastri, who has won the Grands Prix in Azerbaijan and Hungary this season.

“The second lap was good and the tyres hung on. It’s going to be a very different kind of sprint to last year, with the resurfacing, so we’ll see what the weather does.

“But I’m starting from the best seat in the house, so I’ll make sure it stays that way.”

Sao Paulo GP sprint results

Piastri finished outside of the sprint points placings in 10th last season, with Verstappen winning after starting in second, ahead of Norris, who began on pole.

The winner of the sprint receives eight points, with each of the seven places behind incrementally receiving a point less.

Verstappen leads the driver standings, although Norris cut his lead to 47 points by winning in Mexico last Sunday.

Norris: Verstappen position ‘doesn’t matter’

“I don’t care,” Norris replied when he was asked about Verstappen. “I hate these questions so much.

“I don’t care where he qualifies. For me, it’s just about focusing on my own job, and that’s it.

“It’s the same questions every time but it doesn’t matter if he starts first or last. I’ll do the best I can.

“I was surprised at how quick we were today – a pleasant one. I just made too many mistakes on my final lap.”

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