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Fresh herbs from the garden and the different types of oils for massage and aromatherapy

Liquid Gold

A complete guide to plant oils. Sunflower oil Derived from sunflower seeds, sunflower oil is rich in vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids. Its mild flavour and high smoke point make it ideal for cooking and frying, while the antioxidant properties contained within are beneficial in skincare products. Flaxseed oil Flaxseed oil, also known as […]

Cute little red kitten sleeps on fur white blanket

Ahhh-Choose Wisely

How to pick a pet that won’t irritate allergies. Pets are part of the family, and that’s why you want to think long and hard before getting one. Things to consider often include the extent of a pet’s needs (long walks etc.), their long-term costs, and if you are the sensitive type, whether or not […]

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Bee Kind

How to support your local ecosystem during autumn. As summer fades and autumn takes hold, gardens undergo a stunning transformation. However, it’s important not to overlook the needs of local wildlife who need to prepare for the colder months. By making thoughtful choices and adjustments to your gardening practices, you can create a sanctuary for […]

Natural cleaning products lemon, bamboo dish brushs with notebook. Eco friendly. Zero waste concept. Plastic free.

Simple Swaps to Beat the Plastic

Local resident Marie Austen has created recipes for homemade eco products without using plastic. Marie Austen is on a mission. ‘I am running a war against single-use plastic,’ says Marie. ‘I want to demonstrate that you can make lots of products yourself or do simple swaps to limit the use of plastic.’ At an event […]

Old and New Lime Walk

A History of Lime Walk

Berkhamsted resident Jenny Thorburn, who is researching the history and geography of Berkhamsted Common, uncovers the 500-year-old history behind a part of Berkhamsted that will be familiar to many local walkers. One of the most direct routes to the beautiful countryside north of Berkhamsted is to go uphill from the castle side of the station, […]

Champneys Ladies Stretching

Champneys – 100 Years of Wellness

Now a go-to destination for celebrity clientele, Champneys’ story began with a determined boy from Latvia… In the tranquil heart of the countryside, near Wigginton, surrounded by 170 acres of rolling parkland, sits a luxury health resort that has quietly shaped the nation’s wellness landscape for a century. This year, Champneys Tring marks its 100th […]

Holiday image, person in hammock on sandy beach. Source: AdobeStock_435196429

Hotel in the Know

The dos and don’ts of choosing hotels and resorts. DO your homework The first step in choosing accommodation is setting a realistic budget. Once you’ve done that, you just need to work out how to get the most bang for your buck. Compare prices across booking platforms to find the best deals, plus look for […]

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Money Matters

How to manage your money properly during university. Bust out a budget The first step in budgeting is to know how much money you have coming in (this might include student loans or grants, support from parents or part-time job earnings). Next, consider what’s going out in terms of regular commitments such as rent, utilities, […]

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A Warm Reception

What to expect from your child’s first year at school. The reception year at school opens the door to a world of learning, socialisation and personal growth – a vital foundation for their future, as they work out what to expect in a structured school environment. During the initial weeks, teachers focus on helping children […]

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Steer Your Final Year

How to navigate that crucial last year of university so that it can most benefit your future. Your final year of university is a pivotal time in your life, and not just because it’s arguably your last chance to sample the carefree realities of student life. More than this, it is a period filled with […]

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Animal Instincts

Pet pals not only provide fun for children, they also help them develop vital skills and a wider understanding of the world. There are few childhood moments more exciting than the anticipation of a new pet. Whether a playful puppy, reluctant rescue feline or a chubby-cheeked hamster, pets bring hours of amusement and joy, but […]