Ferraris, Lamborghinis, McLarens and Aston Martins are among the exotic fleet lining up to be enjoyed at the historic motorsport track in Wiltshire.

Adults can choose to drive one to five supercars for three miles each depending on the experience booked, while juniors can drive from one and up to three monstrous motors.

Imran Malek, corporate sales manager at Trackdays.co.uk, said: “We’re delighted these new supercar driving experiences are available at Castle Combe, one of the UK’s most celebrated race circuits, courtesy of Trackdays.co.uk.”

“Of course, we’re particularly excited that youngsters from just 10 years old can join in the fun on the legendary track to see, and feel, for themselves how amazing these supercars are.”

Porsche, Mercedes, Lotus, Nissan and Maserati also take their place in the stunning supercar marques available to drive.

“Castle Combe is a perfect venue for a memorable supercar driving experience. It’s steeped in history, the circuit is a driver’s dream and it’s easy to get to.”

“We’d encourage anyone who’s never driven a supercar before, or those wanting an adrenaline rush behind the wheel, to book one of these awesome experiences and have the time of their life,” added Imran.

For more information about TrackDays.co.uk, and its supercar driving experiences at Castle Combe, visit www.trackdays.co.uk.

The magic of Christmas has arrived at Buchanan Galleries, with a heartwarming line-up of festive activities taking place throughout November and December.

Embracing the season of giving, the Glasgow shopping centre has once again partnered with Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity for its much-loved Christmas pop-up shop. Guests can browse a range of unique festive cards and small gifts, while enjoying live performances from local school choirs, hospital groups, and community ensembles. The charity’s popular gift-wrapping service will also be back from Friday 12 December, offering perfectly wrapped presents for a suggested donation of £3.

Adding to the festive magic, the centre’s Santa’s Grotto will officially open on Saturday 6 December in partnership with Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity. Families can meet Santa and his elves, share their Christmas wishes and capture a keepsake photo. Little ones will also be able to write a personalised letter to Santa and pop it into a dedicated post box, whilst enjoying an array of arts and crafts activities opposite the Grotto.

Ahead of Santa’s arrival, visitors are invited to snap a selfie on Santa’s Throne and share their #BGMerryMoments on social media.

Admission to the Grotto is free with an option to make a voluntary donation to Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity. All proceeds will help fund life changing projects and services at Scotland’s busiest children’s hospital, The Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow.

Alongside the charitable activities, Buchanan Galleries has welcomed a host of new independent and seasonal retailers, including Och Vegan, Hunky Dory, Loose Spirits, Calendar Club and Heritage Accessories. Scottish streetwear brand, Baireatelier, will also be joining the festive line-up this November, offering premium t-shirts, hats, jumpers, and accessories.

A magical line-up of Christmas events is also available at John Lewis & Partners at Buchanan Galleries. Visitors can enjoy exclusive fashion, beauty, and home design masterclasses, perfect for discovering seasonal must-haves and transforming your home into a festive wonderland; get creative in wreath-making and Cricut workshops, crafting personalised jumpers, mugs, cards; or join Santa at his Tea Party with The LEGO Group, where children can enjoy stories, cocoa, festive treats, and receive a special LEGO gift to take home.

William McGowan-Smith, Head of Partnerships & Business Development, said “Partnering with Buchanan Galleries each Christmas means so much to the children and families we support. Every donation, every gift wrapped, and every festive moment shared helps bring comfort, joy, and hope to those spending time in hospital over the holidays. We’re incredibly grateful for the generosity of Buchanan Galleries and its visitors, whose kindness truly makes a difference.”
Kathy Murdoch, Centre Director at Buchanan Galleries, said “Christmas is a time for giving, and we’re so proud to be partnering with Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity once again, giving our guests the chance to spread kindness and support families who need it most this festive season.

“With Santa’s Grotto returning, exciting new brands joining the centre ahead of Christmas – with more still to come – and plenty of festive surprises in store, Buchanan Galleries is set to be a truly magical shopping destination this Christmas.”

For more information about Christmas at Buchanan Galleries, please visit: https://www.buchanangalleries.co.uk/

Indeed, the search term ‘cheap family days out’ has seen a 70% increase in Google searches in the last 12 months, clearly indicating that families are on the hunt for a bargain. 

Meanwhile, according to Visit England, almost a half are either ‘cautious and being very careful’ due to the cost-of-living crisis. 

Dan Jones, operations manager at Experiences.co.uk, said: “Easter can present the challenge of keeping the kids entertained while sticking to a budget. 

“We hope that these exciting five experiences for under £25 will offer something different while providing long lasting memories.” 

60 Minute Bounce Centre Session 

Jump for joy…children, and adults alike, will jump at the chance to experience these indoor sessions where bouncing is the name of the game. 

They are a great way to exercise while having fun as a family and because they take place indoors can be enjoyed no matter the weather. 

Paddington Bear Tour in London – Child 

Young fans of the bear with the stare will love this official Paddington Bear walking tour of London. 

The two-and-a-half hour tour starts at Paddington Station before proceeding to memorable locations from the books and films, including Portobello Road Market. 

Slip N Slide Water Adventure Ticket – Devon 

An 86-metre-long waterslide awaits children and adults looking for a one-hour watery thrill that promises plenty of family fun. 

When the waterslide excitement has finished, then it’s a lovely setting to enjoy a leisurely picnic surrounded by the beautiful Devon countryside. 

Wizards London Bus Tour of Harry Potter Locations – Child 

This wizardry experience for young Harry Potter fans starts off from King’s Cross St Pancras station in a tour bus with an expert guide. 

Highlights include visiting locations such as Platform 9 ¾, plus locations that were used as backdrops including The Leaky Cauldron and Gringotts Bank. 

East Kent Railway Tickets for Two 

Evoke the golden era of train travel with a leisurely four-mile round trip travelling through rolling Kent countryside and also through the Golgotha tunnel. 

There’s also the chance to explore the visitor centre and small museum, or take a relaxing walk in the nearby Knees Woodland. 

For more information about Experiences.co.uk, and its full range of activities, visit www.experiences.co.uk.  

With just days to go until Sunday 30th March, the extraordinary experiences with DrivingExperience.com can be booked online up to the last minute. 

Dan Jones, operations manager at DrivingExperience.com, said: “If it’s got four wheels, then chances are you can drive it with DrivingExperience.com. 

“Such a wide range of experiences means there’s sure to be the perfect package for mum this Mother’s Day. After all, Mother’s Day is a very special time and these are very special vehicles.” 

Supercars are always a perennial favourite and the Treble Supercar Blast can be booked as a special offer for Mother’s Day, reduced to just £69 from £109. Behemoths available for mum to drive include Ferraris, Lamborghinis and Aston Martins. 

Off-road action is possible with the Off Road Challenge 2 for 1 which offers a full day of adventure including quads, buggies and rally karts. A pub lunch is also included before heading back to the action. 

Mums who want to drive sideways can enjoy the Learn to Drift Half Day Drifting Experience with 6 Passenger Laps. This extreme driving experience includes learning drifting, doughnuts and figures of 8 before finishing with an unforgettable high-speed passenger ride.  

It’s possible to super-size the action with an awesome 60 Minute Extended HGV Driving Experience which allows mum to drive a 44-ton DAF truck accompanied by a qualified instructor – it could even be the start of a new career. 

With DrivingExperience.com there’s even the chance for mum to go ‘airborne’ with a 1:1 Hovercrafting Adventure. The fun-packed experience includes flying over water and land – a unique ‘surf and turf’.  

Dan added: “Our experiences have been designed to provide an adrenaline rush in a safe environment, so mum can rest assured she’ll be in good hands.” 

For more information about DrivingExperience.com, visit www.drivingexperience.com.  

With limited numbers on each event, the Frontline Walks ensure an intimate and personalised experience as the steps of brave soldiers who fought for our freedom are retraced. Three captivating routes, the Normandy Walk, the Western Front, and the Crete coastline, each span 100km through landscapes that witnessed pivotal moments in history:

• The Normandy Beaches Frontline Walk, 1st-5th October 2025, through historical beaches of Sword, Juno, Gold, Omaha and Utah, finishing at The British Normandy Memorial to pay tribute to the fallen heroes of D-Day.
• The Western Front Frontline Walk, 8th-12th October 2025, from Lochnagar Crater, where the Battle of the Somme began, exploring the Battles of Ypres and Arras, and the memorial grounds honouring the soldiers who fought over 100 years ago.
• The Crete Sea to Summit Frontline Walk, 8th-14th September 2025, from the Lefka Ori mountains trek along dramatic gorges, secluded beaches, and clear blue waters, learning the focal point of the Battle of Crete from World War II.

The Army Benevolent Fund is the Army’s national charity, founded in 1944, so that brave servicemen and women would never face the post-war hardships experienced by veterans of World War I. Its founding purpose remains the same today, and the welfare of soldiers, veterans and their families is at the heart of its work.

2025 will see the nation commemorate the 80^th anniversaries of VE Day and VJ Day, which marked the end of World War II. There has never been a better time to salute the soldiers of the past, present and future, and their families, by supporting the Army Benevolent Fund.

Peter Monteith, Director of Operations at the Army Benevolent Fund, said: “The Frontline Walks in aid of the Army Benevolent Fund are more than just a physical challenge; they are a journey that connects us to the sacrifices and bravery of those who fought for our future. By taking part in these walks with friends or as a solo adventurer, participants will gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the sacrifices soldiers made while supporting the critical work we do to support those who have served and their families.”

Throughout the walks, all supporters will have the opportunity to explore historic sites, learn from expert guides, and forge lasting connections with fellow walkers. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a seasoned hiker, or simply seeking a meaningful way to honour the service of our soldiers, the Frontline Walk offers a truly unforgettable experience.

Elly Clark, from Gloucestershire, who completed The Normandy Beaches Frontline Walk, said: “The fact that you are walking in the footsteps of those you are commemorating and raising money to keep their memories alive, to support those who are serving now, and to provide a cushion for those who’ve left the military, is a privilege. You’ve walked alongside these people, you’ve shared their stories and what they went through, and you’ve seen where it happened and felt those emotions. These are very special walks, and I felt like I had done something really worthwhile.”

Funds raised through the Frontline Walks will directly support the Army Benevolent Fund’s mission to provide practical, emotional, and financial assistance to soldiers, veterans, and their families in times of need. By taking part, you will not only embark on a personal journey of discovery but also make a tangible difference in the lives of those who have dedicated themselves to protecting our nation.

For more information visit https://events.armybenevolentfund.org/frontlinewalk

The Glasgow shopping centre is introducing a Santa’s Grotto, promising to spread joy, wonder and Christmas cheer to families and children throughout the festive season.

In partnership with Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, children of all ages can meet the jolly man in red and his cheerful elves, share their Christmas wishes and snap a keepsake photo. Each child will receive a special gift from Santa himself and have the opportunity to tell him what they’re hoping to receive under the tree this year.

The grotto will be open every weekend from Saturday 7^th December until Sunday 22^nd December from 11am – 5pm, along with 23^rd and 24^th December, to ensure little ones of Glasgow can make all of their last-minute requests. On 24^th December the grotto will be open from 10am – 1pm.

Entry to the grotto is free, with the option to donate to Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity. All proceeds will go to help fund state-of-the-art medical equipment and life-changing care in the children’s hospital in Glasgow.

Kathy Murdoch, Centre Director at Buchanan Galleries, said: “We’re excited to welcome Santa to Buchanan Galleries this year. Christmas is a wonderful time for families to come together, create cherished memories and enjoy the festive atmosphere, and we’re excited to play a part in spreading the holiday cheer while supporting a great cause close to our hearts and give back to our community.

“The centre is now adorned in twinkling decorations once again and will come alive with festive activities. We can’t wait to see all the smiling faces at Buchanan Galleries over the festive season and wish everyone a very merry Christmas.”

William McGowan, Head of Partnerships at Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, said: “We are thrilled to partner with Buchanan Galleries this Christmas. Santa’s Grotto not only brings joy to the families that visit but also helps to raise vital funds for young patients in Scotland’s busiest children’s hospital. Every donation makes a difference, and we truly appreciate the support from both Buchanan Galleries and the wider community during this festive season.”

Buchanan Galleries is also extending its Christmas hours from 7^th December. The centre will be open from 9am – 7pm Monday to Saturday, and 10am – 6pm Sundays from 7^th December to 23^rd December.

Offering more than 80 shops, Buchanan Galleries is the perfect destination to tick off the Christmas shopping list, including family favourites such as John Lewis & Partners, LEGO and Build-a-Bear Workshop. For further information on everything festive at Buchanan Galleries, visit https://buchanangalleries.co.uk/

Stephen Fry is encouraging people to take 32 seconds to download BanktheFood, a free app that helps ensure food banks get what they need in the run-up to Christmas and beyond.

One in seven people in the UK are reported to be experiencing hunger, and food banks throughout the UK are distributing record numbers of emergency food parcels to those in need. The BanktheFood app takes “32 seconds” to download and instantly connects donors to their nearest food bank, providing a list of their most needed items, making it a simple yet impactful way to support the local people during a vital time of year.

Spoken-word artist Georgie Jones wrote 32 Seconds, which illustrates the positive impact of downloading an app in just a few seconds.

In the campaign’s launch video, Stephen Fry brings Jones’ words to life, making a heartfelt appeal to the public: While it may take minutes to make a cup of tea or inflate a balloon, it takes just 32 seconds to download the BanktheFood app and help those struggling to afford food.

Fry explains: “No one should have to go without essentials, and I know many people would like to help those struggling but may not always know the best way how. I hope that by supporting this campaign, more people become aware of BanktheFood and their free app that helps do good and gets people in the community supporting each other.”

Earlier this year, Trussell revealed that its network of food banks handed out 3.1 million food parcels in the past year. Shockingly, 655,000 individuals used a food bank for the first time. Families with children received 65 percent of the parcels, and the number of parcels going to pensioners significantly rose.

Emma Spring, Co-founder of BanktheFood, said: “We’re thrilled Stephen Fry has helped spread the news of the app that makes it easy to donate. With the rise in living costs, more families are relying on food banks – there has never been a more crucial time to ensure food banks are stocked with essential items. BanktheFood enables people to make targeted donations that meet specific needs. It’s about getting the right help to the right place quickly. We’re hoping the 32 Seconds campaign will inspire thousands of new donors to get involved and support their local community.”

To see 32 Seconds visit bankthefood.org and download the BanktheFood app at 

https://www.bankthefood.org/32seconds/

To amplify the message, inspire others to join the movement, and support their local communities, BanktheFood is inviting people across the UK to record their own reading of the poem and share it on social media with the hashtag #32Seconds.

One of the most beautifully traditional and natural ways to adorn your home in the season to be jolly is through delightful ‘Christmas Star’ plants, more commonly known as poinsettias, which are now available in a wide array of colours, shapes and sizes to suit any kind of festive décor.

As a fun project to get you in the Christmas spirit, this crafted Advent calendar in gold and cream looks very luxurious. The gifts are contained in 24 festively wrapped, numbered parcels, arranged in a square. Stylish wrapping paper and ribbons, pine branches and cut cream-coloured poinsettias in flower tubes filled with water make the arrangement an elegant focal point in the run-up to Christmas. To keep the poinsettias fresher for longer, immediately after cutting, dip the stems first into hot water (around 60°C) for a few seconds, then straight into cold water. Tip: If you secure the presents to a panel, you can also hang up your Advent calendar.

The team and residents here are welcoming submissions from local people of all ages, and all they ask is that the prose celebrates what having, or being, a grandparent really means to them.

Morag Macindoe, General Manager at Landale Court in Chapelton, shared: “We have many grandparents at our development in Landale Court and we welcome lots of grandchildren too. The joy both generations bring to each other is immeasurable and we’re celebrating this by asking locals to put their feelings down on paper in poem format.

“We’re also celebrating Grandparents Day by offering every grandparent in the area a free hot drink and cake or biscuit between the hours of 10am and 12noon as a way of saying thank you for being so wonderful! We look forward to welcoming all grandparents to our onsite Slate & Grain brasserie, bar and coffee lounge to receive their treat and they can also enter our competition on the day, where one lucky grandparent will win a £50 M&S voucher.”

Local schools, community groups and budding writers of all ages are invited to enter. All they have to do is jot down their prose on paper and hand it into the reception desk at Landale Court, Chapelton, Stonehaven, AB39 8BF, by Sunday 27^th October.

The winners will be announced the following week and celebrated onsite with an array of prizes including a £100 Slate & Grain voucher for the winner plus vouchers and writing sets for 2^nd and 3^rd places.

Morag continued: “Our grandparents play a huge role in our lives. They are at the top of our family trees and come in all shapes and sizes from paternal grandparents, step-grandparents, and those grandparents that are not blood-related but hold a very special place in our hearts. This competition is to celebrate all our Grandparent figures, and we can’t wait to read the poems we receive.

“We’ll be displaying the poems here at Landale Court from Thursday 31st October to Thursday 7^th November and welcome everyone to come in and view them. Landale Court is a vital part of the community in Chapelton and this competition is a way to celebrate Grandparents in our fabulous multi-generation community.”

Each property at Landale Court boasts private outdoor space, whilst Phase 2 also brings a 3-bedroom unique detached home which is the largest Brio style to date boasting 1259sqft of floor space. Many of the new properties offer flexible accommodation – some with a ground floor bathroom and bedroom, with a number of homes having the option to install a home lift if required for futureproofing.

The expanded 94-home development offers those seeking a fulfilling retirement with an array of facilities including a neighbourhood green, fire pit den, quiet garden as well as The Hub – the social heartbeat of the community filled with a hobby room, club room and the Slate & Grain brasserie, bar and coffee lounge.

For more information on Landale Court visit https://www.brioretirement.co.uk/our-communities/landale-court-chapelton/ or to book a viewing call Sharon or Lisa on 01569 730357.