Issue 8 Dec 2009
Manchester
F R E E
The Perfect Guide to The Perfect City...
large.
large.
Issue 8 Dec 2009
Manchester Hello lovely people,
Welcome to our December issue, it’s Christmas! The markets are here and Alexandra Burke pressed the all important button and turned the Christmas lights on meaning Manchester is in full festive swing. This month we’re holding a special Christmas Cocktail Master Class for our Large Social at Hula on 14th December so you can wow the ‘rents with your amazing mixing skills when you head home for Santa coming. Don’t miss out on that one! It’s been a great year for Large since our birth in May. We’ve launched Large Students, will soon be launching a new title in the early part of 2010 and a new exciting project set to be unveiled after Christmas. It’s just all go! December is all about Christmas splurges; from gifts to glamorous party outfits, Manchester is set to dazzle this month and we look forward to seeing all our readers enjoying themselves at this special time of year. Sending Large Love Editor: Kelly Byrne Contributors: Gareth Williams, Tony Woof. Cover Image © Kathleen Struckle Snail mail: Large Manchester, 60 Port Street, Manchester M1 2EQ Website: www.largemanchester.com Emails: editor@largemanchester.com, advertising@largemanchester.com Main Office: 0161 235 7270 Advertising: Please contact Alex on 0161 235 7277 Editor: Please contact Kelly on 0161 235 7278 DISCLAIMER: © 2009. Large Manchester is published by Large Publishing Ltd. Large Manchester retains copyright. All rights recognised. We cannot accept responsibility for any unsolicited text, photographs or illustrations. Views expressed by individual contributors are not necessarily those of the editor or the publisher.
CITY SOUNDS...
Leona Lewis Comes To Manchester Musical darling Leona Lewis is set to wow the crowds at the Manchester Evening News Arena on 4th June 2010 in her first ever UK tour. Leona promises that fans can expect stunning state of the art staging and visual effects, choreography and an incredible live band. Leona leapt to fame in 2006 and hasn’t looked back since so don’t miss out on this spectacle. Tickets from: ticketmaster.co.uk
Mark Addy Re-Opens
Named after one of Salford’s most legendary son’s, the Mark Addy re-opened at the end of October after a much anticipated renovation designed to take the famous 1980’s venue into a new One Night of era. Queen The Mark Addy is now being run The Palace Theatre will be under the impressive partnership rocking on 4th and 5th December. of the two ‘Robs’, award winning The audience will be going ‘GaGa’ Manchester chef Robert Owen for Gary Mullen (once Stars In Their Brown and former race-horse Eyes winner) with his portrayal of owner and publican Rob Lester. the late Queen front man. The Customers can look forward to show has been touring for nine a menu featuring a selection years taking in most cities in the of Robert’s signature dishes UK and Europe and is set to return alongside a variety of regional to Manchester for two spectacular classics and daily specials. shows. For information on menus, wine Tickets are priced at £16.50 and lists, opening hours and location £18.50 and available from: map check out: markaddy.co.uk palaceandoperahouse.org.uk
Christmas Fever Hits Marketing wigs at the council have done a bit of research to put together a list of the top ten most exciting and distinctly ‘Mancunian’ Christmas present ideas and experiences including: 1.Kevin Cummins book ‘Manchester: looking for the light through the pouring rain’ 2.Re-mastered 20th Anniversary self-titled Stone Roses album - the ultimate indie album 3.Take That The Circus Tour Live DVD 4.Peter Hook – The Hacienda: How not to run a club – a must read for
any fan of the ‘Madchester days’ 5.Manchester Monopoly Set – the classic board game with a Manchester twist. 6.Barn It gift box - A cut, colour and style by celebrity hairdresser Andrew Barn Kate Harrison Cityco’s Chief executive said: “Manchester is a very exciting place to visit especially during the Christmas period and this list showcases some of the quirky and distinctively Manchester gifts that really define our city.”
NEW TO MANCHESTER...
DHC UK A new beauty brand that’s just popped up on the Large radar is DHC. Originating from Japan, the brand is a skincare phenomenon combining nature’s best ingredients with cuttingedge science. The beauty products signature ingredient is olive oil, the foundation of the whole product range. The population of Japan have been in on the secret of DHC for over 25 years so it’s about time the UK was aware of the wonders of luminent and radiant skin. Their Velvet Skin Coat (£12.50) is a wonder product. In this little tube lies a special-effect silicone primer which slides between skin and make up helping to even out skin tone and leave you totally glowing. It really does leave your skin feeling like velvet and a must have to any beauty routine. All their products are available online at www.dhcuk.co.uk or from 0800 23 24 25 and with prices between £3.00 and £67.50 it’s an affordable skincare range. As an extra little treat, DHC UK gives customers four free samples of their choice with every purchase.
NEW TO MANCHESTER...
PPQ for KOKO by Cadbury
We’ve been very lucky this month to sample the delicious milk chocolate truffles, KOKO by Cadbury which are divine. The new chocolates have been launched in collaboration with British design house PPQ. PPQ is a label synonymous glamour and feminity and in their signature style they have created two exclusive charms which are being sold in Selfridges. Only 750 of the silver plated nostalgic charms featuring the signature PPQ cat emblem and a
Koko Launch Party...
Koko Launch Party...
vintage inspired heart pendant, complete with matching chains have been created so catch them whilst you can! At £14.99 they make a great Christmas present and won’t break the bank.
Cup Cake Palace Cupcakes have fast become the hottest fashion accessory of the year and one company in particular making waves throughout Manchester is Cupcake Palace, the brain child of Melissa Seger, who once studied fashion at the prestigious New York Fashion Institute. This lady knows fashion inside out and is now applying these skills to her delicious cakes. She’s worked in fashion for years and just last month left her role to make her baking hobby a full-time career. Melissa’s love for cupcakes started in New York and she uses her keen eye for tracking trends to come up with ideas for her cakes. Her cakes start from a very cash conscious £1.50 and Melissa is now branching into the wedding market. She’s just made cakes for ‘Mr Style’ Gok Wan and you can sample Melissa’s fabulous buns for yourself at the Christmas markets in Exchange Square on 12th and 13th of December. For more information head to http://cupcakepalace.blogspot.com
NoHo
Spear St Stevenson Square Northern Quarter Manchester M1 1FB
0161 236 5381
noho-bar.com
info@noho-bar.com
NEW TO MANCHESTER...
GET THREADED AT TRIANGLE
Are You Going Nowhere?
Ladies and Gentlemen of Manchester, the answer to all of your eye and brow grooming needs are here. The brand new Eyes ‘n’ Brows grooming salon has just opened at The Triangle Shopping Centre meaning there’s no excuse for straggly or bushy brows and boys, that mono-brow really needs to be removed! Treatments on offer include eyebrow and lash enhancement using threading, tinting lash extensions and Micropigmentation for semi permanent make up. With Christmas just around the corner and the party season on its way, this is the perfect time to get preened. Treatments start as low as £6 and they will be offering customer incentives with free treatments for regular users.
Bored of saying there’s nowhere to go in Manchester city centre on a Saturday night? Think the clubs are too underground or too commercial? Well get yourself to Nowhere. Nowhere is the latest addition to Saturdays and the new night is cheekily described as ‘hands up, pants down, house music, all night long’. If you love the sounds of Steve Angello, Mark Knight and Eric Morillo, this night is your match made in club heaven. It’s a night based on inspiring imagery, videos and music. Held at Area 51 every Saturday, the Nowhere gang are bringing good times to the people of Manchester. wearenowhere.com
NEW TO MANCHESTER...
Blackdog Ballroom Another addition to the late night scene in the city centre is Blackdog Ballroom, bringing a slice of New York City’s downtown, speakeasy style to Manchester’s Northern Quarter. With late night gourmet burgers and pizzas and most importantly, pool tables. The venue is open from 12 midday until 4am and is sure to be a permanent fixture for those in the know. The concept is the latest offering from the brains behind the world famous Sankey’s and The Purple Pussycat Club, resulting in a sought after venue without a pretentious air. With simple but great food and drink, it recreates that underground New York vibe with a Mancunian twist. Blackdog Ballroom is underneath the iconic Affleck’s Palace. blackdogballroom.co.uk
REVEAL YOUR
SPICY SIDE D E A N S G A T E Enjoy the very latest Lal Qila Restaurant experience in Manchester, bringing you a sensuous and spicy evening of flavours and top class hospitality in the sumptuous surroundings of our newest Restaurant.
Bookings now being taken. 310 DEANSGATE CLOSE TO HILTON HOTEL
MANCHESTER M3 4HE Tel: 0161 839 6730 www.lalqilarestaurants.com
Part of the Lal Qila Group of Restaurants D E A N S G AT E • R U S H O L M E HANDFORTH•BOLTON
the finest luxury asian cuisine
WISTFUL WONDERING AT THE WEEKEND...
WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA If you’re new to Manchester then you may not be privy to the wonder that is the Manchester Craft and Design Centre. On Saturday 28th November, 2-5pm the centre is welcoming in Christmas with their winter extravaganza. Do your Christmas shopping in style, with free mulled wine and canapés on arrival. The centre will be filled with fantastic music from Ivan Campo, Rebecca Sharp & Dr Butler’s Hatstand Medicine Band and on this day only you will get 10% discount on all studio purchases. Manchester Craft and Design centre is a haven of beautifully crafted and original contemporary jewellery, ceramics, wall canvases, interior accessories and much, much more set in the unique surroundings of a Victorian market building. Surprise the parents this year with a bespoke and more thoughtful gift from the Craft and Design centre. All of the work is of limited nature so they are sure to be wowed by something unique. So forget the pants and socks combo for Dad and head along to this Manchester institution for a more inspiring Christmas shopping trip.
CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL A AND D A FLORAL EXTRAVAGANZA Saturday 5th - Sunday 13th December
Celebrate Christmas with Arley: floral demonstrations, craft fairs, carols by candlenight - a true Winter Wonderland!
01565 777 353 www.arleyhallandgardens.com Arley Hall & Gardens, Nr Northwich, Cheshire CW9 6NA
WISTFUL WONDERING AT THE WEEKEND...
Spinningfields Ice Rink Hot-property Spinningfields is set to cool down this winter with the arrival of a spectacular temporary ice-rink. Running from 12th November until 3rd January, you will have plenty of time to get yourself down to the winter wonderland to try your hand at ice-skating or check out the many other festivities including new bar ‘The North Pole’, amongst the legion of eateries in the hugely popular
area. And, if you have ever fancied yourself as the next ‘Dancing On Ice’ champion, Spinningfields ice rink offers a 6-week skating course, where participants will be trained by a NISA qualified instructor. Lessons begin on 29th November and places are limited, so reserve your place now to avoid disappointment! To book tickets call 0843 208 1853 or go to quaytickets.com
TUMMY RUMBLES...
Hotel restaurants have become well-established in their own right in the city recently. Take Michael Caines at the Abode Hotel and the classic ‘French’ restaurant at The Midland Hotel for example, both winning awards for top-notch food. In the last year, Manchester has seen two outstanding hotels opened which is always a good thing. It shows our city is thriving, with more and more tourists and professionals heading to the city for business or pleasure. Large went to find out if these two hotel restaurants were up to scratch........
Rbg @ Park Inn Situated on the edges of town and getting a slightly raw deal because of it (even though it’s only a stone’s throw from Deansgate), lies the newest city centre hotel, Park Inn. Opened back in June and part of the Radisson chain this hotel is a mid-market hotel boasting a beautiful leisure centre and comfortable rooms complete with all mod-cons. The restaurant, RBG, offers reasonably priced food for all and the menu is concise and practical, much like the hotel in general. It was also encouraging to see the restaurant busy early on a Tuesday evening. There isn’t a huge amount to choose from but the restaurant has had an impressive charcoal
grill installed, meaning that the meat section of the menu covers all bases including Rib Eye Steak (£18.00) and King Scallops (£17.00). My eye was immediately drawn to the milkshakes section of the menu; unusual for this type of restaurant but the Vanilla Milkshake (£3) was really refreshing. Moving onto starters, we tried out the Tiger Prawns with Garlic Butter and Lemon (£9.50) which were really well seasoned, flavoursome and meaty. For mains, I tried out the charcoalgrilled Pork Chop (£12.00) served with their speciality Chimichurri Sauce, a pleasant addition, and a side portion of Maris Piper Fat Chips (£2.50) which come served
RBG @ Park Inn 4 Cheetham Hill Rd Manchester M4 4EW
Large rating – 6.5/10
in mini chip-frying baskets. My guest opted for a traditional Steak and Ale Pie, served with a flaky pastry top and packed full of chunky steak. The restaurant serves its market well and is in a prime position to capitalise on MEN Arena trade. However, I’m not sure the offering is strong enough to pull diners away from the typical city centre haunts. The menu isn’t extensive but there is something for everyone; from Blackened Salmon Salad for healthier appetites to a wide range of gourmet burgers. Hotel food tends to be on the pricey side whereas RBG’s prices would fit with most budgets.
glasshouse @ crowne plaza Shudehill Manchester
TUMMY RUMBLES...
Large rating – 7.5/10
The Glasshouse Restaurant opened a year ago and is very like the hotel - slick, with clean lines and bright, open spaces. On arrival, I was suitably impressed with the extensive cocktail menu with most drinks around £7. The Blackcurrant and Coconut Daiquiri was beautifully presented whilst the French Martini was delicious with a real kick to it. To start with, we tried out the waiter’s recommendation of Surf and Turf (£9.50) which consisted of Scallops and Pork Belly with Chicory Salad and Apple Purée. The presentation was top class, very minimalist, and the meal well-cooked.
The menu is extensive, with the bottom of each page making reference to a supplier, for example, ‘Our fruit and vegetables are sourced and supplied by Oliver Kay, Bolton’, which is a great way of infusing the menu with local touches. Again, sticking with the waiter’s recommendation, my guest tried Confit Duck Leg served with Five Spiced Plum, Shallots, Green Cabbage and Fondant Potato (£15.95) which was really tasty. The hot-spiced plums were an unusual, yet welcoming touch. The Smithfield Market Dish of the Day was Pan Fried Rump of Beef served with Chunky Chips, Sautéed
San Siro
Italian Restaurant
San Siro is an innovative dining experience, which offers an invigorating menu of Italian flavours accompanied by exquisite classic Italian dishes. The dining atmosphere is informal and relaxed whilst still maintaining that degree of exclusivity expected from such an establishment. Our attentive and professional service will ensure that each visit is a memorable occasion which you will want to repeat time and time again, this coupled with our reasonable prices and a warm and stylishly designed interior will never cease to impress you, which is why San Siro is quickly becoming the place to be dining at in Manchester. San Siro is also more than happy to cater for any events big or small, weddings, birthdays, christenings and many others. We can happily provide entertainment for your event and our chefs can cater for all the needs of you and your guests. So just contact us with your requirements and we are sure we can meet and exceed them and give you the day of your dreams.
Two Meals for the price of One on all Main Courses! San Siro - Italian Restaurant. 84-86 Princess Street Manchester M1 6NG. Tel 0161 228 7060 / 0161 228 7227. info@sansiroitalianrestaurant.co.uk www.sansiroitalianrestaurant.co.uk T & C’s: On production of this page valid until 14th December 2009. Not valid on Saturday or special event nights and can not be used in conjunction with any other offer
TUMMY RUMBLES...
Vegetables and Béarnaise Saucecooked perfectly and to my liking. The dishes are on the smaller side but are beautifully presented. To round off the evening, we shared Sticky Toffee Pudding with Crème Anglaise and Toffee Sauce (£4.95). A calorific dessert but certainly not to be missed out on. The menu at Glasshouse is broad; covering items from the Grill; burgers, steaks and Chateaubriand (if you’re splashing out), light bites and sandwiches, healthy alternatives, pizza’s and taste of the north classics including Fish and Chips and Bury Black Pudding with Bubble and Squeak so you would be hard pushed to find something you don’t like here! The restaurant also offers a great
value two-course menu for £12.95, with hearty options to choose from including Oakwood and Whiskey Hot Smoked Salmon starter and Roast Lamb Shepard’s Pie, Cheesy Mash and Glazed Parsnips. In terms of service, our server was delightful, making excellent recommendations without being too pushy. The only negative is that the menu perhaps is too varied and the restaurant should fine-tune its offering. Glasshouse is a great destination for all. Whether you want to veer on the side of caution and stick to the set menu, or go all out and indulge in cocktails and premium champagnes; it has it all.
MESSAGE FROM THE POLICE...
Keep Christmas Happy With Christmas around the corner it’s a good time to consider some simple measures to prevent any nasty surprises cropping up to spoil your festive celebrations. Manchester City Council, Greater Manchester Police, the NHS and Greater Manchester Fire Service are launching a joint Christmas crime prevention and personal safety campaign, next week to give people the information they need to keep themselves and their property safe throughout the festivities. No one wants to be a killjoy at this time of year, but there are sensible precautions you can take while out enjoying the hustle and bustle of Manchester city life over the Christmas period. If you’re at a party or out for a drink with friends, pace yourself and make sure you have made proper arrangements to get home at the end of the evening. You can still have a good time and stay safe. Manchester City Council Executive Member for Adult Service Councillor Glynn Evans reinforced the message: “We’re not asking people not to drink but would just like them to think seriously about how much they are drinking and what risks they may be taking both in terms of health and personal safety.” Emergency services will be pulling together to make sure that the public is safe and can enjoy their Christmas shopping and the festive activities across Manchester. Neighbourhood Inspector for the city centre, Jo Marshall, said: “While officers will be out in force to ensure people are safe, we ask that shoppers, visitors and revellers take responsibility for their own actions by ensuring that personal possessions are kept under wraps and out of sight, vehicles are parked in safe places and valuables are not left on show. That way everyone can have a safe and happy Christmas, free from crime this year.”
COCKTAIL CONUNDRUM...
The newest Northern Quarter venue, Hula is a crazy, Tiki cocktail bar serving up the absolute very best in all things tropical. It’s a 1950’s themed lounge bar adorned with palm trees, a tropical fish tank and lots of wicker all accompanied by a mellow sound track. There’s a real sunshine indoors feel and as the dark Manchester nights set in, Hula can be your slice of exotic goodness, allowing you to forget the rain outside and be whisked away to a warmer climate. Head Honcho Alex is a cocktail messiah who has whipped up a bumper packed menu featuring some of the finest drinks in the city. Pirate’s Booty (£6.50) is a fruity delight containing juicy strawberries and sweet
watermelon brought together with a slug of cane spirit. Yaga Yaga (£6.50) is a blend of coconut, passionfruit and pear. Served light pink in a beautiful glass, you only have to close your eyes and you’re one step away from a Caribbean beach. Not forgetting the Volcano Bowl (£16) which is a sharing punch bowl filled with cognac, guava, papaya and a blend of rums and topped with a flaming crown. All the drinks are dressed beautifully with touches of pineapple and strawberries. The bar also serves the usual beers, wines and spirits and most importantly, Happy Hour is 5-7pm, Tuesday to Friday, where it’s 50% off cocktails.
Celebrating 25 years of travel expertise ! Delivering unrivalled personal service with friendly knowledgeable staff to meet all your travel needs. Visit our newly refurbished office on Oldham Road, Manchester Telephone: 0161 2287363
www.misselliestravel.co.uk 72-86 Oldham Road, Manchester M4 5EB ABTA 83465
All the staff are comprehensively trained and you can even tell them what ingredients you like and they will create you a bespoke cocktail. The team have selected some of the rarest rums from around the world so you’ll find not only typical Caribbean rums but ones from South Africa, Brazil and South East Asia as well. So with an exotic range of drinks at great prices and a fantastic happy hour deal, what’s not to like? Head to Hula for happy times!
spiritual healing reiki angel readings
www.noelphillips.com t: 07775 447006
LIVE - FESTIVE THEATRE...
Manchester’s theatre calendar is packed to the brim this month with some of the best performances in the country. As the nights turn colder, it’s a great feeling to snuggle up in an atmospheric theatre for an impressive performance. The city is fortunate enough to be on the ‘most wanted’ destinations list for most national shows, but we’re also home to some of the best regional theatre on offer across the country. Here are our favourite festive theatre treats for December. Grimm Tales at the Library Theatre 5th December to 25th January Grimm’s tales have always captivated both the minds of children and adults alike, and this theatre adaptation promises to offer a twist to the well known stories, including the famous Hansel and Gretel. Adapted by recently crowned Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy, the show sticks to the spooky feel of the original tales whilst providing a child friendly performance, including music and physical theatre. Suitable for all above the age of 6, fans of the classic Grimm’s tales will enjoy the show and if you feel too old to go alone, borrow a child and take them with you! Tickets: librarytheatre.com
Aladdin at the Opera House, 5th December to 3rd January If you’re into your Christmas traditions then don’t miss out on this years Manchester pantomime, Aladdin. The audience will be taken on a magical carpet ride to remember with the main man Aladdin and his pals in this magical show. Coronation Street bad boy Gray O’ Brien who plays Tony Gordon on the show, is taking the role of the evil Abanazar, whilst Hollyoaks favourite Chris Fountain is playing Aladdin. With magnificent costumes, fabulous songs, and a laugh a minute script, if you fancy yelling ‘He’s behind you!’, then get your tickets booked for Aladdin. Tickets priced £9.50-£24.50 and available from: palaceandoperahouse.org.uk
Blithe Spirit at The Royal Exchange 9th December to 23rd January Directed by Noël Coward and starring Suranne Jones, Blithe Spirit is the Royal Exchange’s festive offering. Coward’s famously funny romp is set in the world of socialite and novelist Charles Condomine who is haunted by the ghost of his first wife Elvira. She appears following a séance held by the engagingly eccentric clairvoyant Madame Arcati and causes havoc with her continuous attempts to disrupt Charles’ marriage to second wife Ruth (Suranne Jones). Famous for her role in Coronation Street, Suranne Jones is sure to bring her first class acting skills to the performance. Tickets available from: royalexchange.co.uk/bookonline
LIVE - FESTIVE THEATRE...
White Christmas at The Lowry, 27th November to 9th January Salford is set to turn white as The Lowry hosts White Christmas in its North West debut. Based on the classic 1954 movie, Irving Berlin’s dazzling musical is full of tap dancing, laughter and some of the greatest songs ever written. Singer, actor and TV personality Aled Jones takes on the role of Bob Wallace with Suzanne Shaw joining the line-up as Judy Haynes. With an ensemble of over thirty and a dynamic 17 piece orchestra, this multi-million pound production is brimming with classic Irving Berlin hits like Blue Skies, How Deep is the Ocean, Happy Holiday, Sisters and of course the unforgettable title song White Christmas. It tells the story of two buddies putting on a show in a magical Vermont inn, and finding their perfect mates in the process. Tickets priced between £22 £37.50 and available from: thelowry.com
LIVE - FESTIVE THEATRE...
Rocky Horror Show Palace Theatre, 7th-12th December No particular festive theme here, but this is certainly a show packed full of laughs and is guaranteed to get its audience toe-tapping along to its catchy numbers. Adapted from the original book by Richard O’Brien, it stars the outrageously funny Mancunian comic Dave Spikey as the narrator. This irresistible riot has seduced audiences all over the world for more than thirty years so whether you’re a die-hard fan or a Rocky virgin, it’s time to celebrate this infamous adventure like never before. Brush up on those pelvic thrusts, squeeze into that corset and slip back into those killer stilettos because the world’s favourite rock ‘n’ roll musical is back with a vengeance! Tickets priced at £13.00-£33.00 and are available from: palaceandoperahouse.org.uk
LARGE SOCIALS...
large. Socials
We are not going to be letting Christmas pass us by quietly and taking a break from our regular pub quiz, (don’t fear, it will be back in January!) we’re heading to Hula this month for a special festival social. Join us on Monday 14th December for a special Cocktail Making Master Class. Kicking off at 6.30, it starts with a wine or beer on arrival and then we’ll be heading behind the bar to be taught the hottest cocktail making techniques, sure to impress the family when you head back for Christmas and New Year. Eat your heart out Tom Cruise! You’ll get to make and drink two of your own cocktails made from
the most exotic ingredients and there will be food laid on courtesy of Bread and Butter, on Tib Street in The Northern Quarter. The cost is just £8 per person (cheap as chips compared to other bars in the area are offering the same for about £20pp with no food or arrival drink!) It’s a great way to brighten up a dull Monday night and have a laugh. Come along with mates, work colleagues or even on your own, it’s all in groups so we will be mixing and mingling. Pay on the door but you need to register your attendance so email socials@largemanchester.com and we’ll be seeing you there for a bit of festival cheer.
Christmas2009 AT THE BRITANNIA HOTEL - MANCHESTER Still have not booked your Christmas party?..... Then give us a call
Dine & Disco – From £10.95
4 Course Meal, Followed by DJ and Dancing Available every Friday or Saturday
Gourmet Christmas Dinner – From £22.95
4 Course meal served in our Fine Dining Crompton’s Restaurant Available any Wednesday, Thursday, Friday or Saturday in December
You can also party your night away in our 2 bars: Great room rates also still available!
&
Please contact us for more information:
0161 2282288
E: christmas704@britanniahotels.com
Address: Britannia Hotel, Portland Street, Manchester, M1 3LA.
www.britanniahotels.com
BEST OF... BEAUTY...
Whether its ideas for Christmas presents or simply that you want to treat yourself to a spot of pure indulgence, here are two of Large’s favourite places for pampering.
Nu Spa at Park Inn Hotel The hotel opened back in June but don’t be fooled; it’s more than just a hotel. Nu Spa boasts a glistening, black-tiled swimming pool, gym, sauna, steam room and multiple treatment rooms. Being slightly on the edge of the city centre, the prices are extremely competitive. You can get an Aromatherapy Massage and Dermalogica Facial for only £45 with their special winter package. Nu Spa is a tranquil haven from busy city centre life and the therapists are expertly trained. The spa works with Dermalogica products as standard with all facials, and they carry out face mapping, pin-pointing troublesome areas and advising you on skin care routines. This couldn’t come more highly recommended if you want to get away from it all, and the prices are fantastic value considering the luxury products used for treatments. For more information visit: pacehealthandnuspa.co.uk
BEST OF... BEAUTY...
The Spa Co Urban Oasis The Spa Co Urban Oasis is in Debenhams near to the ground floor, just up the stairs if you come through the Tibb Street entrance. The salon is Egyptian themed and flooded with warmth and tranquillity. in temperature. Complete with Large tried out the Rapid Ease a neck and shoulder massage Massage (£10) - perfect for busy guaranteed relaxation. urbanites and you don’t even have Post-treatments, adjust in the to get undressed. In 10 minutes, lounge area with a warm wheat the therapist used her fingers sack over your neck and shoulders and elbows to apply pressure to and a choice of herbal tea. tense areas with the addition of Complete bliss! kneading and stretching to ease Urban Oasis are currently offering away stresses and strains. all of the above treatments on For feet, try the Paraffin Wax their ‘Winter Package’ for £75 until Treatment (£25) where tender 1st January. Added to this, you footsie’s get cleansed, exfoliated also get a free file and polish on and moisturised before being hands and feet and a 10 minute immersed into warm lavender Sound Wave Therapy, which is a scented paraffin wax. Feet then get specially designed massage chair wrapped and the wax left on for that emits low frequency sound 10 minutes, followed by a relaxing waves, massaging your whole foot massage – just heavenly. body. The Spa offers a speciality The Spa use the Sothy’s range package at all times, changing of products, all bursting with with the season. natural ingredients. Their soothing For further treatments and prices Autumn/Winter Facial (£48) is a call 0161 835 4061. must for anyone whose skin is Debenhams, feeling dried out with the change 123 Market Street, Manchester.
fashion forward...
It’s Time To Dazzle Tired of buying the old Christmas presents for friends and family? Well, for something more original, head along to the Town Hall for ‘DAZZLE’. DAZZLE runs until 2nd January and is a unique showcase of innovative and glamorous contemporary jewellery. Over 70 specially selected designers present a superb choice of both trendsetting and traditional accessories, guaranteed to provide the perfect gift or tempt some personal indulgence. DAZZLE is full of surprising and exquisitely crafted work from valuable gems and funky plastics to stunning uses of non-precious materials. Large and Dazzle have joined together to offer an exclusive 10% discount on any purchase. Simply present this page at DAZZLE to redeem the offer. For more information visit: dazzle-exhibitions.co.uk
Hutchinson Exclusive
fashion forward...
Fans of online shopping need look no further than the new website hutchinsonexclusive.com. Hutchinson & Co present online customers with a range of fabulous and unique products, which are sourced worldwide, packed with character and have a style all of their own. The company’s ethos is to provide a really high quality service, continually responsive to customers’ aspirations. The site is really easy to navigate and already popular with stars including Dannii Minogue, who has been ‘tweeting’ regularly about the site. With a divine range of bags, jewellery, hats and other accessories, this is a one-stop shop for funky trimmings. It’s really worth a look if you want something different to what’s on the high street. They also stock the gorgeous Kenneth Jay Lane range (Dannii’s favourite).
FOREVER MANCHESTER...
FOREVER MANCHESTER... January Sales Come Early on Manchester Island
And not only will you own it, but Whether you are a Blue or a Red; you can also write a message or live in Bury or Gorton, there is on it, add a weblink, and get a something for you in the great certificate. Manchester Island Property Sale! Our £10 sale only lasts until 24th Manchester island is virtual December, and is on a first come representation of Greater first serve basis so get in there Manchester where you can buy quick for the best stuff. your own property – not only some major landmarks including All you do is choose your property old Trafford and Urbis, but also on Manchester Island (www. your own houses, record stores forvermanchester.com), make your £10 donation, and then furnish and allotments. your pad with a personalised Each purchase gives you your message and weblink. You will property for one month, and then retain ownership for one we’ve got a big pre-Christmas calendar month at which point sale on where every property on you can renew, or let it be sold on. Manchester Island is priced at just And don’t forget, with each a tenner! purchase will come an email gift So for a tenner (which by the certificate making this the perfect way, is all donated to the Forever gift for those hard to buy for friends Manchester Fund providing grants and relatives – avoiding the postal to support community projects strikes, and last post dates for far right across Greater Manchester), away friends. you could own your fave football ground for a month, or a house Come on, visit now and stake your in the city centre, or even the claim on the Island! Beetham Tower! www.forevermanchester.com
CHARITY SPOTLIGHT...
PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide. Each year in the UK, hundreds of young people under the age of 24 take their own lives. Under the age of 35 the number rises to around 1,400. Shocking statistics - and just the tip of the iceberg. Thousands of young people contemplate suicide and a considerable number of these go on to harm themselves. But there is hope. Suicide need not be the inevitable result of feeling suicidal and early intervention can save lives. PAPYRUS is a national charity dedicated to the prevention of young suicide. It was formed in 1997 by parents who had lost a son or daughter through suicide: parents determined not to see other lives lost in this way. Suicidal young people can feel isolated. Those around them may be ‘walking on egg shells’, worried - and therefore hesitant - that what they say might tip that person over the edge. PAPYRUS has helped hundreds of depressed and suicidal young people, as well as having supported friends and family, carers, partners, teachers, medical
professionals - anyone concerned that a young person may be at risk of harming themselves. Its national helpline, HOPELineUK 0800 068 41 41, is staffed by trained professionals who provide practical advice, information and support - how to cope, what to say and what to do. If you are worried about someone or are a young person in despair, you should never hesitate to call. Total confidence and anonymity are guaranteed. As well as raising awareness of possible danger signs, PAPYRUS produces a range of resources for different sectors of the community - parents and families, young people, young offenders, ethnic and minority groups, mental health professionals, universities and colleges. It initiates research into suicide prevention, and is represented in policy-making decisions and campaigns to protect vulnerable young people being groomed for suicide on the internet. Visit: papyrus-uk.org for more information.
… if you are worried about a young person who may be suicidal PAPYRUS offers the following advice:
Do …
Don’t …
Ask how they feel. Talking about suicide does not make it more likely to happen.
Put them down … their self esteem could already be very low.
Listen - this is the most important thing you can do. Try not to be judgmental. Empathise - show you really are trying to understand things from their point of view. Reassure them that desperate feelings are very common and can be overcome.
Abandon or reject them in any way. Your help, support and attention are vital. Nag - you may mean well but nobody wants to be pestered. Ignore how they are feeling Criticise their actions. Instead try to think of the pain and turmoil they may be going through.
Try to give practical support and Always encourage them to seek help them cope with any extra help from their GP. pressures. Call HOPELineUK 0800 068 41 41 for guidance.
CHARITY SPOTLIGHT...
What you can you do?
CHARITY SPOTLIGHT...
Last month we told you about Verus Cancer, Manchester’s biggest charity concert, back for its fourth annual gig at the MEN Arena on the 12th December and raising money for local cancer charities. Just added to the bill alongside Snow Patrol, Andy Rourke (The Smiths), Peter Hook (Joy Division / New Order) and Tim Booth, Jim Glennie and Larry Gott of Manchester legends James are Manc gods the Happy Mondays. There are more being added to the mammoth line up and audiences can expect a legendary concert seeing these fantastic artists collaborating with the world renowned BBC Philharmonic Orchestra. The money raised will go towards helping cancer patients in the region, with The Christie in Manchester being the main beneficiary. Tickets for the concert are priced at £32.50 to £40. For more information visit versuscancer.org
Andy Rourke Peter Hook
Slurp Slurp....
all over someone but, thankfully, all went to plan and I somehow glided ‘gracefully’ through the whole night. Here’s a couple of tips for you girls 1. VPL’s don’t go with anything, especially not that skin-tight satin number and 2. Watch how much you drink, being branded ‘that one who drank so much she climbed on the table to auction herself off’ is never a good way to get a promotion, especially in a credit crunch! Toodles, Love Wonton x
LOVE FROM MIMI...
I’m the epitome of “You can take the girl out of Manchester...” My life is full of laughing, Vimto, cups of tea and football. When I dance I love to shake my hips like a bag of chips and, if you’re buying, it’s lager and black for me please! The lead up to Crimbo has begun, so I’ve been getting prepared for all the glitzy parties by attending a couple of charity balls. In my eyes there’s never a better reason to indulge yourself with a glass of champers and a fancy frock than when it’s for charity! The first I attended was staged by Rags to Bitches at Manchester Museum in aid of Barnardos. It was very posh and I even saw a couple of Corrie stars, oo-er! Could have done without that stuffed lion jumping out at me though… Then a couple of weeks ago I went to my first EVER ball! I was terrified that I’d fall over in my very high heels or knock my wine
SWEAT IT UP, WORK IT OUT...
Get Strictly Fit at Fitness First Fitness First has joined forces with the BBC to launch Strictly Fit group exercise classes based on the sexy and glamorous hit show ‘Strictly Come Dancing’. The classes are designed to inspire you to dance yourself fit, using moves from dances like the cha cha cha, waltz, quickstep, salsa and jive, with many of these set to songs from the show. The emphasis is on aerobic moves and a low impact workout with
moves inspired by Strictly Come Dancing. It’s expected that the new class is set to sweep the country as the nation goes crazy for dancing. Strictly Fit is the first class to be available for non members and members alike. Classes are free to members and for a limited period non members can purchase a five class pass for £25 by visiting: fitnessfirst.co.uk/strictly
Not coping with life? Lets talk about it... We operate a helpline. Its free, confidential, staffed by trained professionals and available to young people worried about themselves, families, friends, carers and professionals.
HOPELineUK
0800 068 41 41
Calls are free from BT landlines. Other networks and mobile rates may vary.
Around 1,600 young people in the UK under the age of 35 take their own lives every year.
PAPYRUS prevention of young suicide
www.papyrus-uk.org PAPYRUS, Lodge House, Thompson Park, Burnley BB11 2RU. tel 01282 432 555. email admin@papyrus-uk.org Registered charity no. 1070896. A company limited by guarantee no 3555482.
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