Charity of the Year: ‘Adopt a Grandparent’ secures Co-operative support for fundraising push
‘Adopt a Grandparent’ has been nominated to benefit from Co-op’s Local Community Fund – being named as one of its charities of the year and making a major step towards its 2023 fundraising goals.
The independent charity works to pair elderly care home residents with volunteers worldwide to combat loneliness and isolation. What began as a project based out of one Surrey care home group became a fully-fledged charity in 2022 and now works with care homes across the UK, with almost 100,000 volunteers signed up to ‘adopt’.
The Co-op donates 1p from every £1 spent on selected Co-op members who chose to support Adopt a Grandparent will be directly benefiting the charity through this Fund when shopping. With the charity requiring a minimum of £100,000 a year to stay in operation, and hopes of growing this to £1million, support such as this is essential to maximise its potential impact. Co-op members can choose Adopt a Grandparent as their elected charity by visiting its page on the Co-op Membership site: Co-op (coop.co.uk)
Deborah Speirs, Co-op Member Pioneer for Surrey and Sussex Borders, said: “We’re thrilled that Adopt a Grandparent is one of the charities and causes set to benefit from our Local Community Fund. We proudly support projects across the UK that our members care about, giving local causes a helping hand whenever our members buy selected Co-op products and services. Since 2016, £117million has been raised by our members, helping to make a significant difference to countless people.”
As part of the package of support from Co-op, Adopt a Grandparents will be taking part in a community morning at its local Co-op in Farncombe, Surrey on Tuesday 21st March. The event will give the charity the chance to raise awareness of its work among local residents and encourage them to choose it as their nominated cause for the year.
Shaleeza Hasham, founder of Adopt a Grandparent explained: “Loneliness became a huge crisis during the pandemic. The health risks related to loneliness include a higher risk of mental and physical conditions including heart disease, depression, anxiety, dementia and premature death. By helping volunteers to virtually ‘adopt’ a grandparent, we hope to alleviate loneliness and generate companionship in as many communities as possible, with both parties benefiting from the enriching relationships.
“It’s exciting to be a part of Co-op’s Local Community Fund and we love that members are able to support a cause that matters to them while doing their regular shop. We’re hoping lots of people in our local community will nominate to support us for the year, but also that those further afield will do the same since the charity’s work benefits older people throughout the country.”
It costs £1 to become a Co-op member and those who wish to donate towards the charity’s £15,000 target through the initiative, will have until October 2023.
While financial support is critical to the charity’s continued work, so are people. The charity is currently on the lookout for ‘Adopt a Grandparent Community Champion’ volunteers, who can help spread the positive work of the charity in their local communities. Those interested in getting involved and being trained up as a volunteer, can email Michelle Husserl at [email protected].
Those who wish to sign up as a volunteer can do so by visiting the website or downloading the free app, which is available through Apple’s App Store and Google Play. They can also donate to the charity’s GoFundMe page.
For more information on Adopt a Grandparent, please visit Adopt a Grandparent
Our wine columnist Giles Luckett invites us to enjoy all things pink
Hello. You’ll have to excuse the punning on that famous Elvis Costello song in the headline… But given Elvis’s predilection for all things boozy back then, I’m sure wine played a part in creating his 1981 album. Surely he’d had to have had a few to think doing a country and western album was a good idea for a follow up to his Motown-inspired Get Happy!
Anyway, rosé wines have certainly been on my mind of late. The warmth of the early spring sunshine always gives me a craving for rosé, and a recent trawl past many a tasting table has introduced me to some glorious new wines, ones that will ensure that 2023 will be a good year for the rosés.
First up, the Moulin de Pontfract Rosé 2021 (Laithwaites £8.99). This is a Provençal-style rosé from the neighbouring department of Var. If it was from Provence, it would probably come in a bottle that Jean Paul Gautier rejected for being outrageous and have a similarly outlandish price tag. This is a lovely, gentle rosé that offers a softly scented nose of red berries and blossom, while the palate is suffused with notes of strawberries, cranberries, and a hint of citrus on finish – just the thing for a spring lunch aperitif.
Next, a wine from Chile. Chilean wines offer an amazing combination of value and quality, and while the reds often steal the show, the rosés can be sublime. Take the Phantom River Sauvignon Blanc Rosé (Sainsbury’s £5.25). As you might expect from a Sauvignon, this is bright, zesty, fresh, and full of grapefruit and citrus. The addition of Shiraz (hence the colour) lends it weight and depth and imparts a satisfying note of blackcurrants to proceedings. Try this with green salads and roasted poultry or baked fish.
Spain is another good source of outstanding rosés – or rosados. Over the years, I’ve tasted hundreds, and rarely have I been disappointed. Recently I tried a new wine from a classic producer. Freixenet is best known for their excellent range of Cavas (more of those soon…), but they are also dab hands at still wines. Take their excellent Freixenet Rosado (Slurp £10). Garnacha-based, this is disarmingly pretty in pink but packs a punch. Bright strawberry and raspberry tones are joined by flavours of red cherry, orange and a touch of spice. Lovely on its own, I think this would partner well with rice dishes and cured meats.
As regular readers of this column may have gathered, I’m something of a fizz fan, in the same way that pandas are partial to bamboo. I recently had another encounter with an English sparkling wine with which we toasted the Queen’s Jubilee, the Balfour Brut Rosé (Waitrose £39.99). I recall being struck by how harmonious and refined this was when I first tried it and revisiting it; it’s even better. Bold strawberry, raspberry, and red currant notes tinted with creamy yeast, a lively, fresh mid-palate, and a long, salted digestive biscuit finish make this a class act.
“I’m something of a fizz fan, in the same way that pandas are partial to bamboo”
When most people think of Sancerre, their thoughts turn to gloriously leafy Sauvignons with their dry, mineral-rich finishes. Sancerre also comes in red and rosé styles which are produced using that most noble of vines, Pinot Noir. These tend to be more expensive and can be quite hard to find, so I was surprised to find an affordable example at Tesco, their Finest Sancerre Rosé (as opposed to their non-existent ‘ordinary’ or ‘value’ Sancerre Rosé – £13). This retains the classic Sancerre freshness and minerality, but with raspberry, strawberry, beetroot, black cherry, and pepper touches. This is fresh enough to be enjoyed on it’s own, but it would go brilliantly with pork or salmon.
And to finish, how about something indulgent, refined, and utterly exquisite? The Champagne Billecart-Salmon, Rosé (Mr. Wheeler £62.50) is all these things and more. This is one of the best rosé Champagnes I’ve ever had – and believe me, I’ve gone miles out of my way over the years to try as many as I can. The magic of this wine is how they manage to combine intensity with grace and generosity. This is a stunning wine offering layer upon layer of ripe strawberry, tangy blackberry, creamy yeast, soft apricot , and a dash of leafy blackcurrant. I’ve been fortunate enough to try this beautiful wine in various formats; the halves sit perfectly in the secret pocket of a Barber when you fancy a cheeky rinse at the cricket, and in magnum, it shows how well Champagne can age and develop. In any size bottle, this is a wine every wine lover should try.
Well, there’s a bottle of Freixenet Rosado in the fridge needing my attention, so I must away. Next time out, I’ll dive deeply into my favourite red wine region, Rioja.
The digital age has brought about a significant change in the way sports marketing operates. Sports brands, events, and athletes have had to adapt to the new digital landscape to reach their audiences effectively. The challenges and opportunities of sports marketing in the digital age are many and varied, and the following article will explore them in detail.
Cheltenham Racing Festival
One example of the challenges and opportunities of sports marketing in the digital age is the Cheltenham Racing Festival. This annual event, held at Cheltenham Racecourse in Gloucestershire, England, is one of the most significant events in the horse racing calendar. The festival takes place over four days, with the Cheltenham racing dates set for March 14-17. The festival attracts a wide audience, including horse racing enthusiasts, punters and causal observers.
One of the biggest challenges facing sports marketers at the Cheltenham Racing Festival is the sheer scale of the event. With tens of thousands of people in attendance and millions more watching online and on TV, it can be difficult to stand out from the crowd and make an impact. However, with careful planning and a strategic approach, there are many opportunities to engage with fans and create memorable experiences.
Social Media
One way that sports marketers can take advantage of the digital age is by leveraging social media to connect with fans before, during, and after the event. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram provide a powerful way to build buzz, share news and updates, and engage with fans in real time. By creating compelling content and leveraging influencer partnerships, sports marketers can generate excitement and drive engagement in the run-up to the event.
During the event itself, sports marketers can use a variety of tactics to create memorable experiences for fans. For example, offering free merchandise, exclusive access, or VIP experiences can help to build loyalty and create positive associations with brands. Live streaming and social media activations can also be effective in engaging fans who are unable to attend in person.
Tradition and Innovation
Another challenge facing sports marketers at the Cheltenham Racing Festival is the need to balance tradition and innovation. While horse racing has a rich history and culture, sports marketers must also embrace new technologies and trends to stay relevant and engaging. For example, using augmented reality or virtual reality experiences can help to bring the excitement of the races to live in new and innovative ways.
Finally, sports marketers must also be mindful of the importance of data and analytics in the digital age. By tracking engagement metrics, analysing audience behaviour, and monitoring sentiment, sports marketers can gain valuable insights into what is working and what is not. This can help to inform future campaigns and improve the overall effectiveness of sports marketing efforts.
Bottom Line
Sports marketing in digital age presents both challenges and opportunities for marketers looking to promote their brands and products at events like the Cheltenham Racing Festival. By leveraging social media, creating memorable experiences, embracing innovation, and using data and analytics, sports marketers can engage with fans in new and exciting ways and drive long-term brand loyalty. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the key to success will be staying flexible, adaptable, and always willing to try new things.
Bruce Dessau chats to comedian Angela Barnes ahead of her tour which takes in Oxford’s North Wall Arts Centre on 3rd March, Chipping Norton Theatre on 22nd April, Bracknell’s South Hill Park Arts Centre on 27th April, Winchester’s The Arc on 4th May & Aldershot’s West End Centre on 27th May
You will know Angela Barnes from Live at the Apollo, 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown and as a regular panellist on Mock The Week. She is a fabulous, flame-haired comedian, never short of a snappy quip, positively bursting with stories and jokes.
In her new show, Hot Mess, Barnes reflects on marriage, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and the pandemic. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. I spoke to Barnes about all of this, plus her love of bunkers – not the golfing variety – and more.
It was originally about ADHD, but, ironically, I got distracted. The title of the show was conceived before the diagnosis. I’ve always been ditzy and forgetful, someone that people roll their eyes at all the time. So the show started off being about trying to get things right and often failing, but then so much happened it ended up being about something quite different, about friendship and loss.
Your boyfriend Matt proposed when lockdown started…
He tried to propose earlier. We’d gone on holiday to Norfolk. He ordered the ring online and they sent the wrong one. It was like a tiny child’s ring so he didn’t do it. Then my brother announced that he’d got engaged so it was like we can’t do it now, it looks like I’m just doing it because he’s done it. Then we were supposed to be going to Islay in Scotland in March 2020. So Matt thought he’ll do it there. And of course that got cancelled because of Covid. My diary just emptied and I was really miserable, so he just thought ‘I’ll do it now’.
Were you able to have a proper wedding?
We married in September 2021. It was just after the restrictions were lifted on weddings. We had our reception in a field so people felt safe. And it was great because it was the first party anyone had been to for a year and a half so the atmosphere was brilliant. Everyone was ready for a party. That’s my wedding tip – have a wedding at the end of a global pandemic. People are really up for it.
Lots of comedians have ADHD – Aisling Bea, Shaparak Khorsandi, Simon Brodkin, you. It can’t be a coincidence can it?
I think there’s a reason we get drawn into this life. We’re constantly looking for that dopamine hit. What better way than stand in front of a room of strangers? It’s not normal to drive to Cardiff for no money to do ten minutes then drive back. Also, I think we’re quite socially awkward. I’ve never been good in social situations with people I don’t know. I’m more comfortable onstage in front of a crowd in the dark. I’m more surprised by stand ups that don’t have ADHD. Why are they doing it?
Mock The Week has ended after 17 years. How was it for you?
I did 38 episodes, the most for any woman and seventh on the list overall. I did my first one in 2014 and thought ‘what am I doing here?’ but by the end I felt I belonged. I owe a lot to it. If it wasn’t for Mock The Week I wouldn’t be doing a tour of this size. It’s nice to not have to write jokes about the news for a bit though. I looked at my notes from my first episode recently and the top story then was that David Cameron had gone on holiday to Cornwall and couldn’t get phone reception. It was a glorious time by comparison.
Was it a good showcase for female acts?
It took a while to realise that ‘woman’ wasn’t a genre of comedy. I think they were worried that women were doing the same subject matter. But my material is more similar to male observational comics than it is to, say, Sara Pascoe. Once they got their head around that I think it changed the show. And once they started having more than one woman on you could tell the difference in energy. I think it started as comedy as combat, having to get your elbows out and get in and became an ensemble piece.
You started stand-up after training as a nurse and working in social care?
I was in my early 30s, I think you realise that comedy doesn’t really matter that much when you’ve come from doing a job where people’s lives matter. During the pandemic we found out who was essential and comedians weren’t essential. Nurses and doctors were. So we’re sort of a luxury item.
But comedy can be good for people’s mental health?
Sometimes people write to you after shows and say ‘I’ve just been through this terrible thing and I was able to forget about it for an hour’. It does have the power to do that. But I think we can take ourselves too seriously. I think we’re entertainers primarily, we’re the court jesters poking fun.
How do you relax? I heard your hobby is visiting nuclear bunkers
I had my hen do in a nuclear bunker in Dundee. I’m fascinated by them. I visit them when I can. If I had my way, every episode of our We Are History podcast (which Barnes co-hosts with comedy writer John O’Farrell) would be about the Cold War, but we try to cover other periods as well.
At the start of the pandemic I bought a sewing machine, boxing gloves and roller boots and went a bit mad. But I do like sewing and learnt how to crochet.
Your tour stretchers from Glasgow to Penzance – do you like life on the road?
I love it. There’s just something about live comedy. People have bought a ticket to see you and that’s a really nice feeling. I’m always amazed as well that people come. I’m just like, why are they here? I’m glad you have but why?
You were the first person to win five consecutive episodes on Richard Osman’s House of Games. Are you competitive?
I am with certain things. Weirdly not in my career particularly, but I definitely am with board games. My family won’t even play with me now. I don’t like it when people don’t take it seriously.
What would you like audiences to take away from Hot Mess?
The bottom line is, it’s jokes, it’s a funny show. But it’s got a bit of heart as well.
Cathie Welch from Cathie’s Gardening School looks at how we can grow and maintain happy plants in our ever changing climates
Last time I sat to write this article I wrote about not giving up the challenge of growing vegetables. Following on from the blistering summer heat we then had Permafrost followed by rain and flooding. This is a challenge for everyone but particular growers, farmers and gardeners. Although I am at a loss as to what to do I am also in a position to find it quite interesting from a horticultural point of view.
The extremes of temperature
There is a lot of information around about gardening in a changing climate but often focusses on the hot summers. There is also a plethora of advice on the plants that tolerate frost, indeed there is a scale of temperature tolerance. We can work out what plants like damp soils, dry soils, sun, shade and indeed those that grow in water. BUT… and it’s a big one! We are now looking at plants that have survived the 40 degree heat, the minus 12 followed by floods. And it’s not even that straightforward because just as we think it’s got milder and plants start to grow again more extreme events happen. It is a minefield and so many people are asking me what to do with their plants that look dead.
The plants that thrived and then died
Phormiums have been beautiful statements in my garden for years, evergreen, colourful, interesting in winter and all the year round, little maintenance, thrive in a sandy soil with little water thrived in the heat and died in the cold. Pittosporums which I have used widely in my garden and others have all defoliated. Another evergreen providing winter structure to replace the box decimated by caterpillar and blight. These are both New Zealand plants that have always been bulletproof!
The plants that thrived and survived
Now this is where it gets interesting. My Trachycarpus fortuneii (hardy palm) have thrived in the heat and not suffered too much in the extensive frosts and flooding. Another surprise is the Yucca (century plant) another tropical looking feature in the garden is laughing in the face of adversity! Roses, dogwoods, willows. Tew, fruit trees etc are looking fine too.
The plants that were damaged but will recover
I was again surprised that my Lonicera hedge took such a battering but encouraged that the same thing had happened at Wisley. I am assuming that once it starts growing in the spring I’ll be able to cut back to healthy shoots. Many evergreens were badly scorched like Choisya, Pseudopanax, Fatsia, Daphne, Euonymous, Skimmia, Hebe and so on which again I will leave until the Spring before pruning. If cut now it can stimulate early growth which can still be damaged by frost. The jury is out on the Phormiums and Cordylines which may grow back from the ground but I’ve cut off all the squishy bits because I don’t want to look at them.
Learn from this
It is important to know your plants, where they come from and what has killed them. This is new to all us experts and it’s a bit of a waiting game. Hopefully the weather will warm up soon but not too much! I’d love to hear your observations and stories.
Cathie’s Gardening School Services
I am running pruning courses throughout summer and autumn. You can join the class and we can come and prune in your garden. Please get in touch, come for a coffee and join in!
Garden designer, TV presenter & dad Adam Frost, 53, chats to Liz Nicholls about favourite flowers, family & being propositioned ahead of his UK tour.
Q. Hello Adam! How are you?
“I’m all right thank you. Even though this is the worst time of the year; I can’t wait for it to warm up and get outside!”
Q. Please could you tells us about your grandparents’ allotment?
“It was Tidy Nan who had the allotment (I’ve got Tidy Nan & Scruffy Nan, who I talk about a lot). Tidy Nan & Grandad had the allotment just along the lane from their back gate and here was one of my first experiences of growing veggies, following my grandad along, dropping the potatoes in the holes. I had a bed with my name on it in black slate, which I’ve still got. I used to grow the marrows, cabbages. We’d go up there on Saturday and have breakfast. Grandad would have his tie and jacket on and off we’d go.
“Nan would come along later when she’d done her bits and pieces in the house. I didn’t realise it at the time but looking back it was amazing times because I had quite a complicated time growing up but grandparents or gardens were my safe places. I still use it as that; I use the growing veggies as my hobby, which sounds sad from a gardener, but it’s the bit I go to when I don’t want to think about designing or creating. We’d come back teatime and Nan would boil something half to death, because that’s what they did then, bless them. We’d do the Pools on the football results and have a wonderful time. That particular Nan was probably more of a maternal figure. The smell of tomatoes… all that early scent memory is driven from their garden, their greenhouse, their allotment and there’s not a time goes by when I don’t give them a thought. Strange, innit, how we connect to those things? That generation. We miss those times with grandparents.”
Q. The academy you helped found sounds great. Why is it important to inspire a younger generation of gardeners?
“I left home at 16 and was one of those kids who was told be a gardener, be a chef or join the Army. And I was lucky enough to get a placement with the parks department. But it was just at the time of privatisation so I was very lucky to get the end of this training system. When you look back through history, the amount of gardeners who went through these apprenticeships is mind-blowing. First of all I was doing bits & pieces for the RHS/ I’d do talks and go into the schools. The academy was born out of a conversation with a boss at Homebase really – a lad called Matt Compton on a rainy afternoon when I was generally moaning about the lack of opportunity for young people in horticulture.
“Matt and I set up this academy in our head and, bless him, he went and convinced the Homebase board that it was a really good idea. Then we developed this thing over four years and ended up taking on 80-odd students in a year. Sadly it’s gone now but it was probably one of the best things I’ve done, and it’s been nice bumping into people who went through that academy. Horticulture’s strange… I’ve heard people in education say gardening is for kids who mess about and I’ve even heard people say gardening is mainly for the ‘special needs’ kids said around the table… I went mental when I heard this! It’s an industry that covers everything – the arts, the sciences, everything in between. The opportunities are far better than they were 10 years ago. We’re getting more young people look at horticulture as something positive, a great career.”
Q. Do you get accosted while out and about, like a doctor? If so, what’s the weirdest gardening query anyone has ever thrown at you?
“I’m just a lad that’s done all right. The weirdest thing has been dealing with people knowing who you are and just… well, I’ve been more or less propositioned in supermarkets in a romantic way, which is rather bizarre for a 50-something bloke that’s married with four kids. It’s charming that I get recognised but that attention is weird! Some of the things that ladies have said to me, if I’d said to a lady, they’d cause quite a lot of bother but if you’re a bloke you have to laugh! To be fair Mrs Frost thinks it’s hilarious. People are lovely and the other side of that is I do feel semi-adopted by so many people which has been incredible. I just rocked up on telly and didn’t think anybody would take any notice let alone this… That’s one of the things with the tour – I didn’t think anyone would turn up! Then they did and then we even had to extend it. It’s humbling.”
Q. It’s great watching you on TV. How’s your mental health doing, and does gardening and the great outdoor help with this?
“My mental health is in decent shape thank you, even though the winters tend to be dark, gloomy and horrible and I’m better when I’m outside, as I said at the start of this chat. One of the things I’ve noticed from the tour is that a lot of people want to know why I’ve moved.
“Well, Mrs Frost was really poorly in lockdown and she ended up in hospital for about 12 weeks and number three child Amber Lily was about 15 at the time and was self harming and that turned into a full-blown eating disorder. Then about 18 months later I was locked in a room with Covid and sat in front of a doctor and psychiatrist who said ‘you’ve got burn-out and depression’, which was a surprise as I only thought I had Covid. I’ve done quite a lot of soul-searching, talking, sorting out over the last 18 months, so I probably understand a lot more about myself now. When that happened the garden we were in felt quite overwhelming and I was losing my contact with it. And then we simplified life and moved and it was like that connection was reborn. It’s been lovely and I hadn’t realised, Mrs Frost uses the garden quite a lot in the summer as a place to go and connect, slow down. I think the surprising thing was I’ve always used the garden to fix me and when I was poorly I didn’t want to go in the garden.
“I’ve just done a load of podcasts for Gardeners’ World magazine – eight conversations with different people and that was fascinating as well. You think you know it all then you talk to experts and realise you know a bit of it but you don’t quite understand the detail they do.”
Q. What’s your favourite flower, and why?
“Wow that’s like asking me who my favourite kid is. I’ve got a favourite child but it changes… Haha, my eldest is here with me, smiling at me! I sort of haven’t got a favourite but a couple I’m drawn to… Cercidiphyllum Japonicum, the candyfloss tree that makes me smile. I have little oddities like that. Some of the hardy geraniums remind me of my Nan. A lot of the plants I tend to be drawn to are memory-driven choices.”
“A lot of the plants I tend to be drawn to are memory-driven choices.”
Q. We’re celebrating weddings this month. What was the favourite aspect of yours? And what advice would you give for planning a wedding? And a happy marriage?
“As a bloke, as a fella, propose to your wife and if she says she wants to get married quickly let her organise it in eight weeks! That’s pretty much what happened with us. She went into manic wedding mode and organised it incredibly quickly, and I said ‘yes’ a lot. I enjoyed the musical element to the day – we walked in and out to music; all sorts including one particular song by David Gray, and we have a line from that inside our wedding rings.
“I think try to do something that’s going to be a surprise to your wife, your partner. If you’re not the main organiser, add a surprise. I found a beautiful limited-edition painting called Wedding Day of a lady in a slip holding a rose and I bought that to give to Mrs Frost. I was once told by a fella in his 90s that he decided early on that he could either be right or happy… and he went for happy. I would say, 20-plus years on, do romantic things! Do little things! I annoy my missus by writing in lipstick on her mirror if I’m away for a couple of days… Which she pretends she likes but she tells the kids ‘oh he’s knackered the end of my lipstick!’ Make sure you keep the romance going. Cook a meal, do something, find some time.”
Q. Do you still love Chelsea Flower Show as much as ever?
“Yeah I love it. I’ve done it that many years that I’ve probably got slightly addicted to it. I’m probably at the stage that I need to go back and do one rather than turn up and walk around other people’s and tell the nation about them! The whole process from design to build, the people there, they have put 20+ days on site – those big gardens they have put their heart and soul into them and then on that press day morning the place gets cleaned up and transformed, everybody from horticulture turns up and it’s a celebration of the start of the gardening years. On the Sunday, Monday there’s this slow buzz. I think from this year on we’re going to be seeing more abut the connection with nature, we’ve gone from formality, how to create habitats that balance with nature. Our gardens are becoming more precious by the month really. We’re going to see a looser, more relaxed notion of what is a garden, what is a landscape? These filter down into the gardening world. Mental health, physical health. References to these as well.”
Q. What’s the best bit of gardening kit/ gadget that you couldn’t do without?
“Two bits: I’ve privileged enough to have worked in Japan, probably about 10 or 15 years ago, and I have a pair of Japanese secateurs which I adore, and then also a lovely little Dutch planting trail which is the one bit of kit that I get asked about the most. Monty [Don] has a similar one. I get slightly anxious when I can’t put my hands on them.”
Q. If you could make one wish for the world, what would it be?
“Connectivity and that we all look after it a little bit better, stop taking it for granted. We get sucked into the details of the politics of this or that but we collectively all just have to do our little bit.”
To book your tickets to hear Adam talk at a theatre near you, please visit fane.co.uk/adam-frost
• 1 large carrot, coarsely grated • ¼ white or red cabbage, finely shredded • 3 spring onions, sliced • 1 green chilli, finely chopped • 3 tbsp roughly chopped flat-leaf parsley • 2 tbsp chopped coriander • 2 tbsp pumpkin seeds, toasted • 2 tsp poppy seeds • 50g pecan nuts, toasted and roughly chopped • 2 tbsp vegan mayonnaise, crème fraîche or yogurt • Juice of half a lemon
Both the potato cakes and coleslaw can be prepared in advance, chilled and then the cakes coated and fried just before serving. Serve with chilli sauce and salad leaves or baby leaf spinach.
Cook the unpeeled potatoes in boiling salted water until just tender when tested with a knife. Drain and leave to cool slightly. In another pan, cook the lentils for about 20 minutes until tender, drain and leave to cool.
Meanwhile, tip the onion and leek into a frying pan with the olive oil and cook over a medium heat, stirring frequently, for about 10 minutes until tender and starting to brown. Add the garlic, caraway seeds and paprika and cook for another minute. Tip into a large bowl with the lentils and parsley. Coarsely grate the potatoes into the bowl, season well and, using clean hands, mix. Shape into eight patties, cover and chill for 20 minutes. They can be prepared in advance up to this point.
Combine carrot, cabbage, spring onions and chilli in a bowl and add the herbs, seeds and nuts. Half an hour before serving, add the mayo and lemon juice, season and mix.
When you are ready to cook, tip the flour onto a plate, pour the milk into a shallow bowl and spread the breadcrumbs on a tray. Dip the cakes first in flour, then milk and finally breadcrumbs. Heat the sunflower oil in a frying pan over a medium heat and fry the cakes, in batches, until crisp and golden brown on both sides and hot all the way through. Remove and keep warm while you cook the remaining potato cakes. Serve with the coleslaw and a drizzle of red or green sriracha sauce, if liked.
Mushroom broth with buckwheat soba
Prep: 5 minutes | Cooking: 60 minutes | Serves: Four
Ingredients:
Broth
• 150g oyster mushrooms, roughly torn in half • 130g shiitake mushrooms, roughly torn in half • 2 tsp sunflower oil • 10g dried shiitake mushrooms • 2 spring onions, trimmed and halved • 1 garlic clove, sliced • 3cm piece fresh ginger, peeled and sliced • 2 star anise • ½ tsp coriander seeds
Soba
• 200g buckwheat soba noodles • 6 shiitake mushrooms, trimmed and sliced • 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari, to taste • 1 tsp mirin or rice vinegar, to taste • 3 baby pak choi, halved or quartered • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
To serve
• 2 spring onions, trimmed and finely shredded • Shichimi togarashi or toasted sesame seeds
This light broth has plenty of satisfying umami notes. Mushrooms are roasted then simmered with aromatics to create a rich stock. Prepare this broth ahead to allow for the flavours to shine through.
Method:
Preheat the oven to 160°C fan/180°C/gas mark 4.
First make the broth. Toss the torn oyster and shiitake mushrooms in the sunflower oil and season. Tip on to a large baking tray in a single layer and roast for about 30 minutes, turning halfway through until browned and starting to crisp at the edges.
Scoop the mushrooms into a large saucepan and add the rest of the broth ingredients. Add 750ml water and bring slowly to the boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook over a low heat for about 30 minutes to extract all the flavour from the mushrooms and aromatics. Remove from the heat and leave to cool to room temperature or chill until ready to serve.
Cook the buckwheat noodles according to the packet instructions. Drain and divide between four bowls. While the noodles are cooking, strain the cooled broth through a sieve into a clean pan, pressing down on the mushrooms to extract as much flavour as possible. Bring the stock to a simmer, add the sliced shiitake mushrooms and cook for two or three minutes until tender. Taste the broth and add soy sauce and mirin to taste. Add the pak choi to the broth, and cook for a further minute until tender.
Ladle the broth over the buckwheat noodles, dividing the mushrooms and pak choi evenly between the bowls, and scatter with spring onions and shichimi togarashi or sesame seeds to serve.
Celebrant-led wedding ceremonies are a growing trend. Make yours as unique as you with Colette Ashby who officiates at ceremonies in Surrey, Hampshire, Berkshire, Oxfordshire, Wiltshire & Buckinghamshire
Your wedding ceremony is the heart of your day, not just the boring bit to get out of the way before the party!
More and more couples are looking for a wedding ceremony that’s less stuffy and formal, more personalised and fun. A celebrant-led wedding ceremony is the ideal solution, giving you the freedom to have your wedding, your way.
One of the great things about a celebrant is they work closely with you to tailor every aspect of the ceremony, so your celebrant will tell your story… your way. Whether traditional, quirky, fun, informal, romantic, lavish or beautifully simple, it’s your wedding and you have the complete freedom to choose the ceremony that’s totally you.
Colette Ashby is a multi award-winning wedding celebrant who creates and performs bespoke wedding and vow renewal ceremonies for couples who want a ceremony that truly reflects them, their personalities and wishes.
In the past few years Colette has officiated ceremonies in couple’s back gardens, tipis and marquees, stately homes, amazing hotels and even a London museum. She has seen couples dance down the aisle accompanied by their doggy ring bearers, held an emotional toddler bridesmaid whilst mum and dad said their vows, watched in awe as an owl flew over the guests to present the rings to the groom, and joined in with a mass singalong partway through the ceremony.
Colette tells the story of when and how you met, the proposal, your hopes and dreams for the future, and somehow always manages to make the groom cry! Lots of laughter and happy tears are the hallmark of a celebrant-led wedding ceremony.
Colette says: “One of my absolute favourite weddings from last year was a couple who first met in 1985! His first words to her (through the window of a car in a traffic queue) were ‘I’m gonna marry you one day’. And 37 years later I had the privilege of conducting their highly emotional wedding ceremony, in front of 40 friends and family members, complete with 1980s reference throughout!”
Celebrant ceremonies are not yet legally binding (we’re working on it!), so to legalise your marriage there’s a short ‘no frills’ process which takes place in a registry office of your choosing – it costs around £50 and takes 10 minutes. Think of it like registering the birth of a baby – get the paperwork done and then you can focus on your extra-special unique wedding.
If you want a bespoke wedding ceremony with a touch of sparkle, contact Colette for an initial chat on 07774 780072, visit coletteashby.com
Choosing where and how you say ‘I do’ and celebrate your marriage is the first big decision for many couples, finding the venue that best suits your style and vision for the day will set the tone – no pressure then!
You’ve said yes and now it’s time to start the planning, there are so many decisions to be made not least the venue but don’t fret there are more options than you could toss your bouquet at to suit every style, theme and budget.
Thames Valley Venues
Courtyard by Marriott Oxford South
Whether you are looking for a traditional wedding or a bespoke package, personalised to your individual requirements, the Wedding Co-ordinator will be with you every step of the way. The modern and stylish hotel can comfortably accommodate ceremonies of up to 50, cater for parties of up to 80 for dinner and up to 100 for an evening reception. They are fully licensed for civil, humanist and religious ceremonies. Whether you are planning a large party or just inviting your closest friends, the 170 guest rooms ensure everyone can stay and have a good time. Find out more at www.marriott.co.uk/oxfcx.
The George Hotel, Wallingford
Licensed for civil wedding ceremonies and with the adjacent Castle Gardens providing the ideal backdrop for photographs, The George can cater for your every need. If your celebrations are for a smaller group of family and friends, the Private Dining Room will accommodate up to 30 guests. For larger and more formal gatherings, which require evening entertainment, the Wealh’s or Sir John Hedges Suite are suitable for parties of 50 up to 100 for the Wedding Breakfast and 80 to 150 for the evening. More information at peelhotels.co.uk/george-hotel
Lains Barn, Wantage
The family-run venue has been catering for weddings and events for more than 50 years and offers a plethora of inside and outside areas for you and your guests to enjoy, without sacrificing that all-important atmosphere. The timber vaulted roof is steeped in history, dating back to 1750. The U-shaped design creates the perfect flow for your day to unfold. When night falls, Lains’ grounds are illuminated by festoon lighting – making for some seriously fabulous photo opportunities. Visit lainsbarn.co.uk.
Picture: Siobhan Beales Photography
Earth Trust, Abingdon
Mark your nuptials surrounded by nature with a rustic countryside wedding in the renovated 19th century barn at the Earth Trust at Wittenham Clumps. Not only can your celebration there be as personal and unique as you wish but you’ll also be championing the natural world and our green spaces. Fison Barn and the courtyard are both licensed for weddings and are both relaxed and picture perfect. Poem Tree Barn is ideal for mingling while you enjoy the bar and catering. The intimate courtyard is perfect for some chill-out time. More at earthtrust.org.uk.
Cosener’s House, Abingdon
The 19th century house occupies a picturesque Thames-side position with private gardens; it truly is the hidden gem of Abingdon. You’ll work with an experienced wedding planner, who will guide and advise you along your journey from newly engaged to the moment you leave as a married couple. The Cosener’s House is licensed for indoor civil ceremonies. Panoramic gardens overlook the River Thames paired with traditional rooms to hold your wedding celebrations. More at The Cosener’s House.
Cogges Manor Farm, Witney
The 17 acres of Cogges Manor Farm provide many charming locations for your photographs – the Manor House lawn, the ever-changing walled garden and the orchard. You’ll enjoy sole use of the two barns plus an area for a fire pit or garden games and shelter too. Both are licensed for civil ceremonies and are next door to St Mary’s Church. Cogges gives you the flexibility to dress and furnish the barns as you wish, and to decide on your own caterers, musicians and other suppliers with Cogges help to your own, truly bespoke wedding, Cogges.
The Post, Newbury
The Post is a beautifully modern take on a countryside wedding venue. The English oak barn brings together contemporary architecture and bespoke design to create a wedding that reflects you and your vision, whether it’s a grand outdoor affair with dramatic sliding doors or an intimate candle-lit ceremony beneath the oak beams. The luxurious bridal pamper room is available for you and your bridal party to enjoy precious time together as you prepare for your big day. The dedicated wedding team will be on hand while your partner and guests are getting ready at the hotel. Visit thepostbarn.co.uk.
Picture: Chris Kemp Photography
Ufton Court, Ufton Nervet
Ufton Court is a charming and historic Tithe Barn and Grade I Listed Manor House wedding venue. The 16th Century timber-framed Tithe Barn provides the perfect blank canvas for your wedding celebrations. From the breath-taking driveway, perfectly manicured courtyard, traditional white walls and flagstone floors of the Tithe Barn to the historic Manor House and the grounds beyond. Whether you are looking for a cosy winter wedding with an open fire and blankets or a summer wedding with drinks on the terrace and garden games, Ufton Court is at your disposal. Additionally by holding your wedding at Ufton Court you will be directly helping the onsite children’s charity which supports hundreds of children and their families. Discover it for yourself at uftonweddings.co.uk.
Picture: Benjamin Stuart Photography
Elcot Park, Newbury
Recently named as Britain’s Best Hotel by The Times, The Retreat at Elcot Park between Newbury and Hungerford is a perfect wedding venue. A reimagined Georgian country house, The Retreat has beautiful private spaces, 55 individually-styled bedrooms, two stunning restaurants and an indulgent spa, all surrounded by glorious Berkshire countryside. A dedicated events team will help you plan your wedding, your way. Visit www.retreatelcotpark.com.
Notley Abbey, thame
Boasting a rich history of royalty and Hollywood celebrity, it now serves as an incredible exclusive venue that is unlike any other around. Choose from The Abbot’s Hall or The Monks’ Refectory to exchange your vows, both showcasing stunning architectural highlights. Why not tie the knot outside in the idyllic sun trap that is the Walled garden? More at Notley Abbey.
The Swan At Streatley
The Aviary is the stunning setting for your special day at The Swan, from your ceremony for up to 120 of your family and friends to your reception for as many as 200 in the evening. Chefs have created a selection of menus for you to dine on for the wedding breakfast and at the end of your special day enjoy the night in a complimentary River Suite – six bedrooms will also be reserved for your nearest and dearest while you’ll also get a unique code for your guests to book online too.
Leander Club, Henley
Many wedding parties for the elegant Edwardian venue choose to arrive at Leander either by boat or on foot – it’s just a short walk over the bridge from Henley. Enjoy photographs on the lawn or landing stage before your wedding breakfast in the stylish dining room adorned with artworks and painted oars. Dance the night away with family and friends before a fabulous fireworks display to round off your special day.
Stanlake Park & Vineyard, Charvil
One for wine lovers – you’re sure of a divine experience in the vineyard at Stanlake Park to toast your sparkling day. The picturesque venue is set in 150 acres of gorgeous grounds, with a tree-lined driveway. Vintage barns have been restored to conjure up an idyllic location and there’s a variety of settings to say I do, hold drinks receptions and play lawn games. Stanlake Park guarantees you beautiful photographs at any time of year.
Badgemore Park, Henley
From the moment you arrive at Badgemore Park, you’ll know this is the place for you. From major corporate events to weddings, private parties and celebrations – the opportunities are endless with the choice of three stunning settings: The Coach house, The Fairway and a beautiful, covered Courtyard. Talk to the team to make your event memorable, and perfect in every way. More at badgemorepark.com.
Stokes Farm Barn, Wokingham
The picturesque family-run Stokes Farm Barn is a rustic wedding venue full of character and licensed for civil ceremonies. The main barn is a bright space with floor to ceiling windows and beams. Enjoy drinks and canapes on the lawn and patio and the balcony bar presents the opportunity to watch those strutting their stuff overlooking the dance floor.
Monkey Island Estate, Taplow
The centuries-old retreat hidden alongside the River Thames offers the perfect setting. Picturesque and private, you’ll create unforgettable and precious memories. Whether you are looking to hold a dream countryside wedding with a marquee on the lawns, an intimate ceremony and dinner party or an elegant wedding in the stately ballroom, Monkey Island Estate can cater for everyone.
Wasing Park, Aldermaston
Located in the rural village of Aldermaston, Wasing Park is a luxury wedding venue set in stunning 18th-century parkland with historical buildings. The wonderful wedding venue boasts a stunning Victorian Summerhouse, a Castle Barn and the spectacular Stables Lodge. Located in the Terrace Garden, the Victorian summerhouse is traditionally built with wooden seating to all sides, often used for the ceremony in spring and summer. The interior has a hand-painted mural – a stunning photo backdrop.
Combe Manor Barn, Hungerford
The country house was listed in the Domesday Book in 1086 so getting married here assures your day will become part of history. The venue is licensed to hold civil ceremonies and for those wanting a church service, there is a beautiful 12th century church just yards from the barns. Only one wedding a week is hosted giving you access to the barns from the Wednesday prior to your special day. They have a list of excellent suppliers for your catering and floristry who are both local and have worked at Combe successful in the past. Other features included in the hire are a beautiful bridal bedroom with en suite bathroom for the day and much more. See more at Combe Manor.
Chalk Barn, Rushall Near Pewsey
A wedding at Chalk Barn is a truly exceptional experience. The day before your wedding is included as standard whether you have a hands on approach or a team to help you set up, the barn is yours for the day to decorate, dress, and perfect. Say I do in the barn or on the infinity lawn, the Wiltshire countryside is your backdrop. From a rustic feast to a refined banquet, artisan producers can help create a menu perfect for your day. And after you’ve celebrated, spend the night in The Hide.
Rockley Manor, Marlborough
Usually a private residence, the Grade II listed manor invites you to host your wedding day in the stunning grounds and house. You will have exclusive use of the grand 18th century manor and gardens to create a romantic and tranquil setting. The dedicated and experienced team’s attention to detail makes no aspect of your wedding too big or too small, leaving you with peace of mind, and your guests wowed at the how perfectly the day has run. Wedding breakfasts are held in the impressive Baronial Hall, while the courtyard and Park make the perfect backdrop for your wedding photos. Find more Rockley Manor Wedding Venue.
Templars Weddings, Hungerford
Templars is still a working farm today so perfect for a rustic yet elegant special occasion. Land owner Charles Perry rebuilt Templars Barn in 1998. The entire barn is seven bays long and you’ll notice the roof is a shade of pink because it reminded Mr Perry of the family holidays in the south of France. The property also comes with ample parking and a paddock for outdoor drinks and activities. Discover more at Templars Weddings.
Surrey & Hampshire Venues
Farnham Castle
Farnham Castle is a stunning historic, multi-award-winning venue for weddings, overlooking the historic, market town of Farnham, on the Surrey/Hampshire border. It is the perfect choice for your wedding, from ceremony, to reception, to party… and after the party you can relax overnight in the Guildford Honeymoon Suite, and for your guests, 33 guest bedrooms await. However you want to celebrate, the experienced team of Wedding Specialists will ensure that your wedding is managed to perfection. www.farnhamcastle.com | [email protected] | 01252 720402.
Picture: Harry Michael Photography
Painshill, Cobham
Painshill is a beautiful 18th century landscape full of picturesque garden buildings and stunning views. They are licensed to host ceremonies within the Gothic Temple, a romantic folly with an incredible backdrop. Couples can then take advantage of wonderful photo opportunities around the landscape at beautiful locations, featured in Married At First Sight and Bridgerton, including the sparking Crystal Grotto. Contact them today at painshill.co.uk to book an appointment to experience the views for yourself.
Credit: Married at First Sight UK
Gorse Hill, Woking
The Edwardian mansion sits in 17 acres offering oodles of photo opportunities for your bridal party while guests enjoy a drinks reception on the lawns. The Garden Suite Ballroom is available for seated wedding breakfasts and evening receptions. A private balcony overlooks the gardens from the honeymoon suite and with 67 rooms there is ample accommodation for guests too. More at Gorse Hill | Woking.
Great Fosters, Egham
The five-star hotel is set amongst 50 acres of stunning formal gardens and is licensed for civil ceremonies for up to 180 guests. The Tithe bar is a charming location for the wedding breakfast and up to 220 guests for an evening reception. Smaller celebrations can be held in The Orangery. The hotel’s gardens, with a Japanese bridge, lake, fountain and and Saxon moat, provide an idyllic backdrop. Find more at Great Fosters Hotel.
Pennyhill Park, Camberley
Exchange your vows in the Terrace Pavilion surrounded by 120 acres of stunning countryside and then head to the lily pond for unforgettable memories and photos you’ll treasure. Indoor ceremonies will be against the backdrop of the Library with vintage fireplaces and large windows offering views of the grounds. Handcrafted chandeliers add an elegant touch to the banquet hall where you’ll enjoy award-winning cuisine. Find out more The Pennyhill Park Hotel.
Coverwood Lakes, Gardens & Farm, Cranleigh
Those looking for less formal and ‘traditional’ style weddings will be intrigued by this unique venue which hosts tipi weddings amid 225 impressive acres of landscaped gardens and lakes. Only a limited number of weddings are held here each year so your lakeside setting is sure to be even more memorable for you and your guests in marquees and tipis on the lawns – perfect for your special day whether a traditional wedding, more bohemian or rustic.
Worplesdon Place, Guildford
The 19th-century manor house is located within two acres of landscaped gardens overlooking the swan lake. It can comfortably host up to 50 seated guests or 80 guests for an evening celebration and features a DJ and buffet space. An on-site event coordinator will assist with planning and additional amenities and facilities are available to you and guests.
High Billinghurst Farm, Guildford
The enchanting and romantic venue showcases the Hay Barn with large inglenook fireplace, bar and dancefloor for up to 150, with the interlinking Elizabethan Barns providing the perfect space for receptions, ceremonies and blessings. There is ample space for marquees, tipis or stretch tents if required and an area that can be used for glamping with toilet pavilion and showers.
Lythe Hill Hotel, Haslemere
Want your wedding to be part of history? Then how about a 16th century Tudor House for the venue overlooking a lake with breath-taking views of the South Downs. The combination of old-world charm and contemporary decor is sure to appeal with a sky view lantern roof and exposed beams while in the summer what could be better than the outdoor gazebo to say ‘I do’.
Gate Street Barn, Guildford
This family-run property is a working farm complete with cattle and pigs and is available to host weddings all year round. Get back to nature with a ceremony in The Barn or perhaps you want to tiptoe through the bluebell-lined paths for a fairytale blessing in the woods. If you decide to tie the knot in autumn or winter, wood-burning stoves will add to the magic of the day. Beautiful onsite accommodations can sleep up to 28 guests with the happy couple often opting for the seclusion of The Hayloft. Find more at Gate Street Barn.
Froyle Park, Alton
Jacobean features, a grand staircase and ornate fireplaces will greet you and your guests here for a ceremony that can host up to 300. A choice of ceremony venues is available depending on your requirements but you’re guaranteed to fall in love with whichever you choose. Luxurious en-suite bedrooms will welcome guests after a hard day’s celebrating. Discover more at Froyle Park Harbour Hotels.
The Anchor Inn, Alton
Fully licensed to host civil ceremonies, the country pub wedding venue offers a choice of private indoor and outdoor spaces of which the State Room takes pride of place. Full of charm and tradition, The Anchor Inn is the ideal venue for those looking for an intimate ceremony, larger parties can wine and dine in the rustic-style restaurant. The courtyard garden offers space to gather outside on warmer evenings.
Departure Lounge Café, Alton
The vintage decoration will impress those looking for an alternative wedding reception venue but will also provide everything you’re looking for from your special day in this unique countryside location. Catering for up to 150 guests in the café, marquee and gardens, the Departure Lounge is fully licensed and offers an afternoon tea option, buffet menu or hog roast. There is an area ideal for a live band or disco and the premises can be decorated to your taste.
Gilbert White’s House, Selborne
Enjoy your day in the 16th century Hampshire Barn, with glorious views over meadows, or for a more intimate ceremony and reception, the historic house and White’s Bistro. The Great Mead affords a charming location for an outdoor reception whether this is a marquee, teepee or bell tent you will be surrounded by stunning views in this location that allows you to celebrate your wedding, your way. Couples also have the opportunity to work with Gilbert White’s Brewery, to make their own loving brew for their special day. The venue is pet-friendly too, allowing your furry friends to share in your day.
The Welldiggers Arms, Petworth
The authentically British pub boasts intimate rooms and a delightful alfresco dining area with space for up to 120 guests using indoor and outdoor areas. The cottage style garden is ideal for summer celebrations while in winter it is heated and weatherproof with fur blankets on the furniture to keep you cosy. Embracing all that epitomises the country pub with local real ales and traditional British cuisine, a dedicated event team will be on hand to help you with every aspect and at the end of the day, one of the 14 en-suite rooms awaits. Find more at The Welldiggers Arms.
Cowdray Walled Garden, Midhurst
A hidden gem of a venue set against the astounding backdrop of Cowdray Ruins in the heart of the South Downs. Licensed for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies, up to 100 guests can be seated for the big moment in either the Castle Room which looks out over the ruins and the Courtyard with exposed stone walls which allow an opportunity to bring the outside in. The Walled Garden work with a selection of carefully chosen caterers with a strong emphasis on sustainability.
The Lismoyne Hotel, Fleet
A tree-lined driveway leads to this stunning property, complemented by beautiful English gardens and overlooked by a 300-year-old sequoia tree. The property is licensed for ceremonies in two banqueting rooms, conservatory or outside in the gazebo. This memorable location is perfect for both large and more intimate weddings, offering a perfect backdrop for your very special day. Explore more at Weddings | Hotel Wedding Packages Hampshire.
The Elvetham, Hartney Wintney
Original feature fireplaces, rich oak walls and spectacular views of perfectly manicured gardens create the perfect backdrop for your wedding. Choose from the Oak Room (up to 120 guests), the Morning Room (up to 50 guests) or an outdoor ceremony under the arches of the original Victorian summerhouse. Larger parties can then dine and toast the happy couple in the Grand Library whose walls are adorned with literature. Thirty five acres of gardens will provide you with so many photo backdrops you’ll be spoilt for choice. Find more at The Elvetham Hotel.
Lythe Hill Hotel, Haslemere
Want your wedding to be part of history? Then how about a 16th century Tudor House for the venue overlooking a lake with breath-taking views of the South Downs. The combination of old-world charm and contemporary decor is sure to appeal with a sky view lantern roof and exposed beams while in the summer what could be better than the outdoor gazebo to say ‘I do’. Explore more at Weddings – Lythe Hill.
Strictly stars Karen Hauer & Gorka Marquez and their scintillating cast return with Firedance, featuring fresh flavours and super-charged choreography in a tour that includes Guildford’s G Live and Oxford’s New Theatre
“This is our third year doing Firedance,” says Karen, “and of course the first year we only got six shows in before it got stopped by the pandemic, so it still feels very new and exciting! It’s a show that is fresh, it’s sexy and it’s just a celebration! We have all the dances that the audiences love, like our tangos, our sambas and our salsas, so it just celebrates all the fun we have together as a friendship and everything we love to share with people. We just love dancing together so much, so we’re bringing that joy out onto the stage for everyone to have fun with us!”
Born in Venezuela and having grown up in New York from the age of 10, Karen Hauer is the longest serving professional dancer on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing. Joining the series in 2012 she has been partnered with household names including J Westlife’s Nicky Byrne, The “Hairy Biker” Dave Myers, Mark Wright, Jeremy Vine, Will Young and chef Simon Rimmer. In 2018 she reached the quarter-finals with actor Charles Venn and went a step further in 2019, taking comedian Chris Ramsey to the semi-final. In 2020 Karen reached her second final when she partnered with Made in Chelsea’s Jamie Laing and in 2021 was paired with Greg Wise. For this latest series, Karen is dancing with actress, comedian and podcaster Jayde Adams.
Gorka’s flair for dancing started from a very young age. Originally from Bilbao, Spain, aged 11 he attended Ballroom and Latin dance classes where he quickly excelled and became one of the top dancers representing Spain performing across the globe.
“I think people can be used to seeing us doing ballroom dancing on TV, but that is also a style that is meant to let us showcase ourselves, to express things and to interpret the way we feel things, not just the music, but whatever has happened to us throughout the year, we channel that into the dancing.
“I think this show is going to be even more epic than it was before, to be honest. The production and the fire in particular was always hugely important to us, so like the music and the dancing, we really wanted to make sure that the other aspects of the show like that were stepped up another gear too. It all has to complement each other, so what we have in store this time around is just incredible.”
“I think this show is going to be even more epic than it was before.”
