Christmas 2021 by Devil Tree Media

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All The Things That Might Be In Short Supply For Christmas 2021 It's beginning to look a lot like... well, sort of Some may be reluctant to admit it, but Christmas is around the corner. In just over 10 weeks, we’ll be sitting around our respective dining tables eating, pulling crackers, and then eating again. After the washout of Christmas 2020, where Covid restrictions made it impossible to enjoy a "normal Christmas", many hoped that 2021 would bring a return to the Yuletide cheer of yesteryear. Except, there might be a different kind of spanner in the works this year. Supermarket bosses have warned that there may be a shortage of some of our favourite Christmas goodies

as we approach December, the result of a lack of drivers to deliver those goodies around the country. Be it because of Brexit,

Covid rates leading to isolation periods and a lack of staff, or a combination of both, there is a risk that some of your favourite festive

items will be missing from your home this Christmas. “We’ve already had one Christmas cancelled at the last minute. I’d hate this one to be problematic as well,” said Richard Walker, the chief executive of supermarket chain Iceland in recent weeks. Tesco chairman John Allan, meanwhile, said: “Normally the supermarket industry

would start building stocks from now in readiness for Christmas. Longer-life products first, things like Christmas puddings and so on, shorter-life products, like fresh turkeys, very late in the day. “At the moment we’re running very hard just to keep on top of the existing demand and there isn’t the capacity to build stocks that we’d like to see.” So what could we be short of come December 25? Turkeys There are concerns that poultry farmers will only be able to produce 80% of their usual output this year, due to a shortage of workers. Richard Griffiths, chief executive at British Poultry Council, said: “It would be irresponsible to grow more birds than can be slaughtered and processed, which is incredibly frustrating when the demand is there for quality British products.” Pigs in blankets

Ah, a lot of people’s favourite Christmas lunch treat, crispy bacon wrapped around a small crispy sausage. We can’t have Christmas without them, surely? A spokeswoman for British Meat Processors Association said it’s a possibility. “Given the current workforce shortages, meat companies are finding it difficult to see how they’ll dig themselves out of this,” she said. “Part of the issue is that it’s more difficult to time the supply of pigs in the same way that you can for Christmas turkeys, so production of Christmas favourites like pigs in blankets has to be done well in advance, and normally should have started at the beginning of July. “The problem will continue to spiral until something changes. That ‘something’ must be an injection of new workers.” Petrol We all need petrol to do

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baubles on if we run out of Christmas trees? One farmer explained this week why even the most important festive item of all might be harder to come by this year. "With Brexit, the paperwork involved with importing the produce to grow has increased significantly,” said

those all important Christmas rounds, delivering presents to loved ones and making sure you get to wherever is hosting this year’s festivities. But after weeks of chaos at the pumps, there are no guarantees that everything will be back to normal by Christmas. Despite many petrol stations now having ample stocks of fuel, many in parts of England continue to be low on quantity. Policing Minister Kit Malthouse told the BBC last week: “We are still seeing strong demand in parts of the country around fuel, albeit that there is no problem of supply into the country. “The distribution mechanism is trying to respond to this unprecedented demand.” Gifts

Now hang on a minute, no turkey or pigs in blankets is one thing, but no presents? Retailers, like other industries, are being hit hard by a lack of drivers, and that could mean a delay in delivering toys and other gifts, or enough of them, to stores in time for Christmas. Experts in the toy industry fear that consumers will face higher prices this Christmas as a result of economic pressures that have disrupted their plans. Bins We all generate even more waste over Christmas, thanks to more packaging, more food waste, more wrapping paper, but rubbish collection is something else which could be affected due to driver shortages. Veg Surely there’ll be enough veg to go around? Labour shortages in the fruit and

vegetable market could have a real impact this Christmas, according to experts. Jack Ward, chief executive of the British Growers Association, said: “If you cannot get the labour, you end up going through the crops and you might just pick out the class one and leave some of the other produce that could have been picked from those fields. “I think the longer term issue is it just continuously erodes the confidence of growers.” Christmas trees What the hell are we supposed to hang our

Rob Morgan. “There’s also a huge lack of drivers and general transportation, as most us will be aware by now, as well as lengthy shipping delays, which is really driving up demand for local producers and farmers. “Many wholesalers are too afraid to buy from abroad

these days, because of the delays and the paperwork and so on. It’s great for local farmers like me to have that extra support, but there simply aren’t enough trees at the moment to meet this sudden increase. A Christmas tree takes around 12 years to grow, so we can’t just produce more overnight.”

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Christmas 2021: Experts Predict The Bestselling Toys For This Festive Season

"Some of the top toy trends we’re seeing for 2021 are those tied into films, with the lack of new releases last year meaning we saw very little along these lines in 2020," says Peter Jenkinson, From the toys that every AKA "The 'Toyologist," a child will want to the best time to start shopping, here's UK-leading toy expert who regularly features on popular what you need to know. television programmes. Christmas is a magical time "This year, we’ll have a new for all the family. Whatever Ghostbuster film, Paw Patrol your age, it's a time to catch up with loved ones, reflect on hitting the big screen and a the year and - of course - give Top Gun movie, too." The consensus is also that presents! If you have a little one in your life and aren't too big-brand toys will remain popular. sure what to get them this "There are lots of brands year, we've spoken to top we’re excited about for industry experts to find the Christmas 2021," says toys every child will want. Gary Grant, Founder and We've also gathered advice Executive Chairman of on the best time to buy to toy shop The Entertainer. avoid disappoint-ment. "This includes Paw Patrol, Here's following the movie this everything summer. Other popular you need brands will include to know... CoComelon (based on Christmas the popular children's TV 2021 trends show), Super Mario, L.O.L. to expect Surprise! What toys (mini baby dolls), Barbie and will be Bluey (another popular kids popular for TV series)." Christmas We can also expect people of 2021? all ages to fall in love with

toys and games for Christmas 2021. "This year we’ve seen a huge surge in the popularity of traditional toys and games that can be enjoyed by the whole family," says Rachael Larkman, Toy Buyer at John Lewis. "For example, sales of construction toys and puzzles such as Lego have risen 50% in the last 12 months, and we predict this trend will continue for Christmas 2021."

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What toys will children ask Santa for this Christmas 2021? Having insight into what your kids might want is great for surprise gifting, but what can we expect them to ask Santa for? John Lewis may well have the best predictions for this. The retailer enlisted a panel of five under 12's to help

select and approve the top 10 toys for Christmas. The Toy Testers spent hours playing, testing and competing in the John Lewis Toy Testing Lab and then selected their favourites. To give you some insight into a little one's Christmas wish-list or letter to Lapland, John Lewis' tiny toy testers revealed the top 10 toys will be: • Scalextric Batman vs Superman • Lego Elf Clubhouse • John Lewis FSC Wooden My 1st Train Set • Space Puzzle Ravensburger • John Lewis FSC Wooden Waitrose Supermarket • Gravi Pro Starter Extreme • Kaloo My first Doll • Harry Potter Games Compendium

• Tonies Soft Cuddly Friends - Hoppie Rabbit Audio Play • Secret Garden book Should I order toys online for Christmas 2021? With some people still feeling uncertain about shopping on the high street at busy times, it’s totally understandable that you may be looking to buy toys online for Christmas 2021. Not sure what to order? Amazon has released its Toys We Love list, which is curated by experts to give insight into the most popular toys for Christmas 2021. “We’re so excited to unveil this year’s Toys We Love list, which features more new products

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and Amazon exclusives than ever before,” says Anne Carrihill, Director for Toys and Games at Amazon. “Customers will discover familyfriendly gift ideas that spark imagination, promote inclusion, and help kids learn in fun and engaging ways.” Many toys made the list, but here are 10 recommended by Amazon that we think will be perfect for kids of all ages:

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Best Unusual Christmas Gifts: Quirky And Unique Present Ideas To Stand Out From The Crowd In 2021 Show how much you care this Christmas with an offbeat gift that shows you know them better than anyone else Stuck for ideas when it comes to Christmas gifts this year? After all, you can only buy socks, chocolate or aftershave so many times before they become a bit samey. Even a small twist on a generic gift can show a loved one you care, and that you’ve put thought into choosing something that screams unique. However, there are so many present options out there it can be difficult to know where to begin – from wacky food and drink gifts to novelty clothing (that you know they'll never wear). But do not fear – we have written this guide to cut through the noise. Whether you're looking for a present for a partner, friend or family member, our philosophy is the quirkier the better. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up a selection of the best unique gifts to buy your loved ones for Christmas 2021.

Best unusual Christmas gifts Polaroid Originals OneStep+ Camera

A 70s-style instant camera with modern Bluetooth connectivity is the best of both worlds. The OneStep+ allows you to connect to the Polaroid app and access extra effects and features so, no, it’s not quite as analogue as the original – but it looks just as cool. Throw Throw Burrito Card Game

This game isn’t for the faint of heart. Though it’s described as a ‘card game’, that’s under-selling it. It’s a bonkers card game crossed with dodgeball in the form of squishy toy burritos. It’s stacks of fun, but beware: it could get messy. Sculpd Pottery Kit

For a gift that will outlast Christmas, consider buying a friend or family member a new hobby. For the creative minds in your life, this kit includes everything they need to get started with pottery – they'll be making plant pots, candle holders, coasters or mini-sculptures before you know it. LuckyVoice Karaoke Set This stylish at-home set from London and Brighton’s leading karaoke bar would make the perfect gift for someone who likes to

The Big Cheese Making Kit

belt ballads like Beyoncé. That’s the Boxing Day entertainment sorted.

Oxfam Poverty Busting Pig Part of a series of charity gift cards, this poverty-busting pig makes a donation to Oxfam in your loved one’s name, which enables the charity to set up farming co-operatives and provide training for farmers living in poverty. A thoughtful gift that gives back.

Personalised Marmite Personalised gifts always go down a treat with trickyto-buy-for friends and

family. You really can find something for everyone, whether it’s personalised PG Tips tea or a monogrammed whiskey glass, but what’s not to love (or loathe, depending on which camp you’re in) about personalised marmite? The School of Life Conversation Menus

If you count a ‘turophile’ (that’s a cheese enthusiast to you and I) among your nearest and dearest, this is a gift worth knowing about. The Big Cheese kit contains everything you need to create 10 different cheeses across 40 batches, including mozzarella, ricotta, mascarpone, halloumi, feta and paneer.

Chefly Pasta Maker This pasta maker will allow you to take your tagliatelle to new heights. It won’t The School of Life (cobreak the bank, either, so it’s founded by philosopher Alain a great choice for budding de Botton) creates a range chefs who are dipping their of thoughtful gifts, from toe into pasta making for the charming children’s books to first time. an ‘emotional first aid kit’. Personalised Floral Liberty We love this pack of Framed Picture Conversation Menus, which consists of curious, thoughtprovoking questions that promise to connect you to others and make every dinner party a delight. Another personalised gift that will go down a treat, especially among loved ones who are into interior design. The print is backed with gorgeous Liberty floral fabric and finished with bespoke lettering. It’s completely personalisable, comes framed and is made in England.

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Evening Shopping And Festive Wine: Six Christmas Crackers Food Fair For Accrington

On Thursday 25 November, Accrington’s beautiful market hall will stay open late for an evening Christmas shopping event. From 4.009.00PM, visitors will be able to shop, drink and dine while getting in the festive mood. There will be free children’s activities to enjoy and over 50 stalls for customers to browse, with handmade gifts and delicious treats to eat. Many indoor market favourites will be staying open

later to welcome seasonal shoppers, while new popup stalls confirmed for the event include Boos Bakery, Pretty Little Flame and Mia Jade Bakes. Following the success of the August Bank Holiday Bash evening opening, shoppers and stallholders are looking forward to the event. Market manager Sameena King commented: ‘We know some people will say Christmas can’t start in

November but we wanted to give people the chance to get in the mood early. After a difficult year for many, starting on your seasonal shopping or simply sampling some delicious food are things we’re happy to make available. ‘Welcoming people to an event of this type is a great way to stay involved with our community and support local businesses.’ There are still spaces available for potential traders and pop up stallholders looking to get in the festive spirit and reach new customers, please email markets@hyndburnbc. gov.uk.

For Christmas festivities wines always find general favour. Which wines, what with and when, need not be so complex. I selected some popular choices, that satisfy many situations and also pair with food, admirably. Not forgetting Santa (and his grown-up helpers!), when he does his rounds, a joyful sherry is always welcome! For Christmas morning Bucks Fizz has become a regular, traditional, option, for many. A mix of two parts orange juice and one part champagne, can incorporate your favourite champagne. I like a champagne that is powerful, elegant and crisp. Bucks Fizz can also be purchased ready mixed, in bottles. To accompany turkey, Merlot can be classed as a lighter wine option. Chilean Merlot is wonderful and Clos Apalta Casa Lapostolle is excellent. This dark-coloured production is bold and voluptuous. A great recommendation for

a wine to enjoy around the Christmas table. Goose has a stronger flavour than turkey and Pinot Noir makes a splendid accompaniment. Villa Maria Reserve Marlborough, from New Zealand, pairs well with the rich flavours of goose. The complex palate is well-balanced for this wine, which is regularly chosen as a pairing for this dish. Cherry Brandy Liqueur, having grand notes of maraschino cherries and fresh morella, is also splendid by itself. The Grant’s production (a favourite tipple of Queen Victoria, I am informed), makes a brilliant tasting addition to a rich and fruity Christmas punch, as well as being a fabulous pairing with Christmas pudding. Port is a trusted favourite, for ending a meal, particularly with cheeses. A favourite of mine is Graham’s. The deep rubyred colour entices to the

dark, fruity bouquet, which furthers the enjoyment for the mouthfeel and palate, with a long finish. We cannot forget Santa, of course! A good idea (in my opinion) is to leave a very acceptable sherry for Santa – and his grown-up helpers! Fernando de Castilla Classic Pedro Ximenez I find to be a sherry that goes on pleasing. Big on flavour and sweetness, this is very good and elegant. I know, I know, it’s that time of year again. But, if it works, it works! I hope you have a wonderful time and enjoy the drinks (if you wish to) that suit you. Merry Christmas!

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Statement On Proposals For Reinstatement Of An Active Railway Line On The Route Of The Monsal Trail

The National Park Authority is aware that organisations including Manchester & East Midlands Rail Action Partnership (MEMRAP) have developed proposals, and are campaigning for the reinstatement of an active railway line on the route now known as the Monsal Trail.

There are two key tests that will need to be applied to any proposal to re-instate a railway line on the Monsal Trail, and the bar for each of these tests is set high due to the nature of the trail and its location. These tests are: 1. Need: Is there a strategic need and is that need in the national interest? This is

Mynydd Sleddog Adventures Mynydd Sleddog Adventures is Wales' first and only outdoor activity provider, specialising in husky rides and sled dog experiences with our team of super canine athletes. With 20 years experience of training and racing sled dogs in the UK and abroad, we pride ourselves on leading awesome adventures for anyone who loves the wild outdoors and of course sled dogs. Autumn/Winter is our prime time when our dogs just

want to work, so why not join us for the experience of a lifetime. You will have the opportunity to forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the unique and crazy world of Dog Mushing and Sled Dog Sports. If you are looking for a fast paced, adrenaline fuelled, blast through the stunning undulating trails of Hiraethog Forest, then our 6 Dog Team Passenger Run is the adventure for you! Alternatively, our Intro to

important because of the principle of considering major development in the National Park and the specific impact on the Natural Zone, which has the highest level of protection in the National Park, characterised as the wilder parts of the landscape. 2. Impact: Can an equally

Mushing is ideal for children or adults who would love to interact with working sled dogs, learn the basics of Dog Mushing and run a small team of sled dogs themselves, surrounded by the beautiful landscape of Dolben Hall. To book your sled dog powered adventure go to www.mynyddsleddog adventures.com Follow us: Facebook/Mynydd SleddogAdventures Instagram/Mynydd_ Sleddog_Adventures Youtube: https://bit.ly/ MynyddYT

convenient and acceptable provision of the Monsal Trail be provided elsewhere that is of a similar quality and without having an unacceptable impact on the high quality landscape and environment through which it passes? The Authority has worked with MEMRAP to

understand if their current proposal can pass these tests, however to date we have not received anything to indicate the tests can, or have, been overcome by their work. The National Park Authority is totally committed to a low-carbon and sustainable future for travel and access for all to the National Park.

However, we do not accept that the reinstatement of the railway on the route of the Monsal Trail is part of the solution, for the reasons we have set out above. We cannot therefore, support the reinstatement of what is being referred to as the ‘Peaks and Dales line’.

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5 Reasons To Spend Christmas In The Lake District

Close To Home, Far From Expected.

The Ambleside Salutation Hotel & Spa, Lake Road, Ambleside, Cumbria

LA22 9BX | Tel: 015394 32244 | www.hotelslakedistrict.com

Christmas is a magical time of year, and here at Windermere Marina Village, we think that there is nowhere better to spend it than the Lake District. While Windermere is beautiful all year round, there is something particularly special about the festive season. Here are just a few of the reasons why you should stay in our luxury self-

catering accommodation in the Lake District December around the festive season. #1 - Dreaming of a White Christmas We’re dreaming of a white Christmas, and when you’re visiting Windermere, you’re likely to see some snow, even if it is from afar! Windermere is surrounded by hills, crags, howes and fells, many of which will get a generous dusting of snow at this time of year, making for a fantastic view. Lake Windermere is a great place to go to enjoy the festive views – just make sure to wrap up warm!

#2 - Warm and Cosy Accommodation What can be better than relaxing on the sofa in a warm and cosy cottage in the winter? All of our apartments look out over the marina, giving you a great wintery view while you’re sat in the warmth of your luxury apartment or cottage. Kitted out with everything you may need, you’ll feel right at home at Windermere Marina Village over the festive period. If you’re hoping to enjoy Christmas with the whole family, we have apartments that sleep up to 10 people, so you can surround yourself with the ones you love. #3 - Festive Food One of the best things about Windermere is the many fantastic pubs and restaurants in the area. Of course, you can find delicious local food all year round, but at Christmas time, you’ll be able to enjoy plenty of festive treats. Check out our recent blog

about eating and drinking in Windermere for some ideas on where to visit, or simply go out and explore the town – you’re never far from a great eatery in Windermere! #4 - A Tranquil Setting If you’re hoping to get away from the hustle and bustle at Christmas time, you’ll be able to find a tranquil and relaxing setting in Windermere. Of course, you can head into the village to experience the excitement of Christmas, but Windermere and the Lake District also offer plenty of opportunities to get some peace and quiet. Whether you take a walk or a trip out onto the lake, you can find that tranquillity you’re looking for at Christmas. #5 - Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas! We’ve already mentioned the delicious delicacies you can enjoy in Windermere, but you’ll also find plenty of places to enjoy a little festive tipple! You can visit the onsite Boathouse Bar & Restaurant or explore the local area to find an establishment that suits your mood. Christmas is a fabulous time to spend in Windermere, so why not make an early booking? If you would like to speak to a member of our team about our apartments or making a reservation, don’t hesitate to get in touch by calling 015394 46551 or by emailing info@wmv. co.uk and we’ll be more than happy to help.

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Festive Season At Abbey House Hotel Christmas at the Abbey means parties and festivities right through to the New Year – including fabulous food with all the party trimmings, and entertainment. If you would like to reserve one of our function suites for exclusive use, please contact the hotel and we would be happy to do this (subject to availability). With festive cheer and a warm welcome, Abbey House is the ideal place to spend the festive season whether you are planning to dance the night away at one of our Christmas parties, enjoying Christmas lunch with the family or bringing in the New Year in style, we have something for everyone. We also serve Boxing day lunch – giving mum

a chance to relax and let someone else do the washing up! Abbey House offers the essential Christmas Getaway break where you can escape from it all between Christmas and New year. With breaks including

dinner, bed and breakfast, you can relax and unwind and let us pamper you before you return home refreshed and ready to bring in the New Year. New Year’s Eve at Abbey House Hotel – bring in 2022 with style.

A Christmas gifts and craft fair will be held in Wordsworth’s home at Rydal Mount in December. The two-day event will feature some of the county’s best artists and makers of glass, ceramics and jewellery along with cards and prints. Copies of poetry and other books signed by members of the Wordsworth family will also be on sale. The fair – on the weekend of Saturday and Sunday December 11 and 12 – will have live music, mulled wine and mince pies in the tea-room, and it’s hoped

that craft workshops will be staged in the garden gazebos. Tickets for the fair, which includes access to the house and all its exhibits, will be £12 (£6 for children) with a reduced price by booking online in advance. Advance tickets will go on sale via the Rydal Mount website in November Among those already signed up to take part are Jane Exley of the Woolly Rug co, Letty Ashworth of Lakeland Stitch, and Sally Anne Lambert of Moongazer Cards. The great-great-great-

great grandsons of William Wordsworth, Christopher Andrew and Simon Bennie, are organising the fair. Christopher said: “The house and gardens are the perfect setting for a Christmas celebration.”

Our New year’s Gala dinner is sure to be a fantastic evening with a sumptuous meal, and top-flight entertainment – making Abbey house the place to be.

Christmas Fair At Wordsworth’s Home

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The Broadway To Host Festive Event To Mark Bradford's Christmas Lights Switch On THE Broadway's festive launch is returning this year and will mark Bradford's official Christmas lights switch on. It will take place on November 13 and new for this year is talent show ‘Broadway Presents’ to find the region's next big star. The winner will perform their act or song on stage at the festive launch to a captive audience and be on stage alongside celebrity guests for the official light switch on. The ‘Broadway Presents’ is open now. Singers, dancers, magicians and entertainers across the region are invited to submit a video performance with successful applicants progressing to live auditions at The Broadway on October 23 and 30, where they will perform to a panel of judges. Six finalists will then be given the opportunity to perform on stage at the festive launch to the judges, with the crowned winner taking centre stage to showcase their winning act again. Ian Ward, general manager at The Broadway said:

“We’re absolutely delighted that the festive launch is returning in 2021. "‘Broadway Presents’ is a fantastic opportunity for a talented, future-star to take their first step into the limelight and be on stage for the official Christmas lights switch on. Plus, they scoop a £500 gift voucher to spend at The Broadway. “The team at The Broadway is really looking forward to welcoming families from the area to celebrate the start of Bradford’s Christmas festivities - this year’s free event promises to be another night to remember.” Performances, guest appearances, and competitions will be announced in coming weeks. To find out more about ‘Broadway Presents’ and how to enter visit www. broadwaybradford. com/events/broadwaypresents/

Christmas Shopping In Leeds

As one of the UK’s best shopping destinations with an unrivalled offer, Leeds is the perfect place to get all your Christmas purchases sorted – from luxury brands to high street

names, quirky independents to handmade markets we’ve got your Christmas shopping wrapped up. VICTORIA LEEDS Combining the Victoria Quarter’s elegant Grade 2 listed Victorian arcades and the glamorous modern Victoria Gate, which pays homage to the surrounding architecture; Victoria Leeds is one of the country’s most beautiful shopping destinations. This award-winning centre houses over 80 of the most desirable shops, including Harvey Nichols, John Lewis & Partners, Aspinal of London, Gant and many more, making that special gift an easy find. With stylish restaurants and bars, cafes and kiosks, there’s plenty of options for a festive snack, a pre-theatre cocktail or a romantic rooftop meal for two. KIRKGATE QUARTER The oldest part of Leeds city centre is home to one of Europe’s largest indoor markets; the iconic Grade 1 listed Kirkgate Market dates from 1875 and is the birthplace of Marks and

Spencer, with a replica of the original Penny Bazaar. With over 150 independent traders, it’s the place to source your fresh festive produce. Take a break from your shopping and sample street foods from across the globe in the Market Kitchen. Its neighbour is the magnificent Grade I listed Leeds Corn Exchange, with a stunning oval domed roof and a host of vintage and independents shops. For a one-off gift or fabulous retro fashion-piece, make sure you experience this landmark building. TRINITY LEEDS You’ll have your Christmas shopping completed in no time at Trinity Leeds; with three floors full of high street names from Next to M&S, River Island to Hollister, Pandora to Lego all under one iconic glass roof. There’s over 120 brand names including shops, bars, restaurants, coffee bars and the unique food concept Trinity Kitchen which has a choice of cafes and street food venues that change through the year. Located in

the heart of the city centre, Trinity opens on to Briggate, Leeds’ main high street, where you’ll find House of Fraser, ZARA and more. VICTORIAN ARCADES Leeds is famous for its breath-taking historic arcades, which combine luxury shopping with small, independent retailers. Take a stroll through these beautiful arcades and pick up some distinctive festive gifts There’s the designer brands of the Victoria Quarter which includes County Arcade and Cross Arcade, with their ornate mosaics, wrought iron, marble and glass; the independent retailers and original Potts clock in the Grand Arcade; the quirky family run shops of the Queen’s Arcade; and the small speciality shops of the Thornton’s Arcade with the amazing Ivanhoe Clock whose life-sized figures strike a large bell each quarter hour. Each of these covered walkways has their own exclusive atmosphere with its beauty preserved for visitors to enjoy for years to come.

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It’s Beginning To Look At Lot Like Christmas In Blackpool

Christmas might look a little different this year, but Blackpool is glowing with festive magic. For the first time in history, the Blackpool Illuminations are lighting up the promenade in the run-up to Christmas and this year’s town centre festive lights are looking as decorative as ever. It’s the most wonderful time of year!

Town Centre Christmas Display Are you coming to town this Christmas? Blackpool is sprinkling some seasonal spirit across the town as hundreds of icicles light up the streets. The wintry blue lights are displayed across Bank Hey Street, Victoria Street, Church Street, Clifton Street and Abingdon Street. The new festive display,

designed by the Blackpool Illuminations team, was launched to coincide with the reopening of non-essential retail on 2 December in a joint scheme funded by Blackpool Council and the Town Centre BID. Stop by to see the gigantic 40ft Christmas tree standing tall in St John’s Square, beaming with twinkling white and blue lights.

There is also a second tree installed in the heart of Bickerstaffe Square, so if you’re doing your Christmas food shop in Sainsbury’s or heading to Blackpool North Station, make sure you take a look. Remember, you can park for just £1 for any three-hour period in the majority of Council-owned car parks* until 3 January 2021. F Houndshill Shopping

Centre Now that non-essential shops have reopened, why not head to Houndshill Shopping Centre for a bit of Christmas shopping? Not only will you be supporting the high street, but you are guaranteed to feel the festive spirit as you shop amidst the twinkling lights and decorative shop windows. Don’t forget, it’s Late Night Thursdays on the 10 and 17 December where you can park for free in Houndshill Car Park from 5-8pm. The mall is also running a socially-distanced Santa’s Grotto for the little ones. Blackpool Illuminations The Blackpool Illuminations need little introduction but one major thing you do need to know is that they’ll be shining until 3 January 2021 for the first time in history. We’ve

Whether You've Been Visiting Blackpool Illuminations For Decades, Or Have Never Seen The Lights Before, We've Got Some Top Tips For Ensuring Your Visit Is As Enjoyable And Stress-Free As Possible! Top tips for visiting the Lights Saturdays are a busy night for at the Illuminations, so midweek visits are the best way to avoid heavy traffic. The weekends can be subject to long queues, and we'd prefer you to enjoy the display with ease. If you are set on a weekend visit, a great tip to beating the traffic during the Illuminations is to drive from north to south; this is a brilliant way of facing less traffic, yet still allowing you to see all that we have to offer! Why not avoid the long traffic queues and stroll through the lights on foot? Park up the car, grab some fish and chips, and walk along Blackpool Promenade to ensure you

don’t miss a thing. If you're unable to walk far or have limited time, we recommend walking the tableaux at the north end of the display. Another great way to explore our Illuminations is by hopping on an illuminated tram! Regularly departing from the Pleasure Beach loop, the trams run all the way to Bispham, and you can hop off at several stops on the return journey. If you need to make more specific arrangements or need to board/alight at specific stops, the regular Blackpool Transport trams are a fantastic idea, too! Below you will find a series of commonly asked questions about the Blackpool Illuminations so

you can be super prepared for your upcoming visit. How long are Blackpool Illuminations on for? Blackpool Illuminations are usually on for 66 nights. However, the 2021 display will run throughout the festive season for the second consecutive year from 3 September - 3 January 2022. Can you drive through Blackpool Illuminations? You can drive through Blackpool Illuminations and we recommend doing so! Are Blackpool Illuminations on every night? Blackpool Illuminations will shine from 3 September - 3 January 2022. Are Blackpool Illuminations on this year?

Yes! We can't wait. Blackpool Illuminations will be lighting up the skies in 2021. Are Blackpool Illuminations free? Yes. Blackpool Illuminations is the greatest free light show on Earth! We do, however, rely on public and business donations to maintain our fantastic Light display. When visiting the Blackpool Illuminations, you will have chance to donate some of your spare change at the collection huts.

officially decked out the whole of Blackpool! Are you super excited for Christmas Day or do you need a little nudge to get you in the mood? The greatest free light show on Earth will keep your spirits bright and bring some well-needed Christmas cheer to all residents. Our top tip for seeing the Illuminations is from the comfort of your own car; however, if you need to stretch your legs, please keep to the social distancing guidelines in place. Whichever you choose, why not take some warm mince pies to eat on the way or tuck into some delicious fish ‘n chips?

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Sales E: sales@wilcopmedia.co.uk | T: 0115 6972677

BLACKPOOL

Winter Gardens

Wonderland

26TH NOVEMBER 2021 2ND JANUARY 2022

DAILY DEPARTURE

BLACKPOOL WINTER GARDENS

Festive Family Fun!

ZZZ

Renowned for its unique location, the Blackpool Winter Gardens is the perfect venue for a traditional Bavarian-style Christmas Market. Complete with wooden chalets and a bustling atmosphere, Indoor & outdoor traders, prepare to be amazed as we present a fun filled event for the whole family this festive period. Featuring incredible live entertainment, amazing food and a magical Santa’s Grotto, Winter Gardens Wonderland is a MUST this festive period.

DEPARTURES DAILY FROM 26TH NOVEMBER!

BOOK BY CALLING 0800 804 4444

WWW.BLACKPOOLPROMOTIONS.COM

Sales E: sales@wilcopmedia.co.uk | T: 0115 6972677

Page 31.

Winter Gardens

Wonderland

SAV OVE E R

£19

1 NIGHT ACCOMMODATION PACKAGE

AFTERNOON TEA AT THE FAMOUS WINTER GARDENS!

AMAZING ENTERTAINMENT

Worth £50.00

• RETURN LUXURY COACH TRAVEL

Worth £10.00

• V.I.P ENTRANCE TICKET TO

Worth £15.00

• AFTERNOON TEA AT THE

Worth £5.00

• NIGHT DRIVE OF THE FAMOUS

Worth £45.00

• FABULOUS ACCOMMODATION

Worth £25.00

• GALA CHRISTMAS DINNER

Worth £15.00

• SUPERB CHRISTMAS SHOW

Worth £10.00 Worth £15.00

WINTER GARDENS WONDERLAND

HISTORIC WINTER GARDENS

AT ONE OF THE FABULOUS HOTELS FEATURED ON OUR WEBSITE

DAY 2 • FULL ENGLISH BREAKFAST

WE PAY YOUR MILEAGE! 10p per mile up to 400 miles return Terms and conditions apply, see website.

FREE CAR PARKING FOR ALL SELF DRIVE BOOKINGS! Terms and conditions apply, see website.

• EXCURSION TO MANCHESTER CHRISTMAS MARKETS OR

SUNDAY TO THURSDAY

ANY 1 NIGHT

INDOOR & OUTDOOR CHRISTMAS MARKET!

FRIDAY OR SATURDAY

1 NIGHT

£99 £125

From

TRIBUTES TO NEIL DIAMOND, ELVIS & MORE!

SELF DRIVE SPECIAL!

BLACKPOOL ILLUMINATIONS

THE TRAFFORD CENTRE

SUPERB HOTELS

KIDS

Fr.

£69

From

KIDS

Fr.

£89

NATIONWIDE TRAVEL OPTIONS!

BOOK BY CALLING 0800 804 4444

WWW.BLACKPOOLPROMOTIONS.COM

Page 32.

Sales E: sales@wilcopmedia.co.uk | T: 0115 6972677