Friday 30 October 2009

NEWS FROM ALTON TOWERS


Alton Towers Resort today launches World’s first breakfast with ‘stay down’ guarantee

Despite offering a wide variety of breakfast options at the Alton Towers Resort, it has been noted that some individuals have been choosing not to take breakfast prior to enjoying the UK’s top thrill rides for fear of seeing it again!

In response to this trend Alton Towers Resort today launches the worlds first all-you-can-eat “Rider’s Breakfast” with a unique guarantee: that it stays down or your money back!

Working with renowned scientist Dr David Lewis, Resort bosses are so convinced the meal will live up to it’s guarantee they are offering a full refund to anyone who is unwell. For any cheats that may try to scam the Resort, all breakfasts will come with a bespoke motion sickness bag. Any guests wishing to claim will simply have to present the ‘full’ bag to a member of staff. Ride hosts will be monitoring usage.

Dr David Lewis said: “The ‘Rider’s Breakfast’ is a wholesome and easily digestible meal, low on the Glycemic Index and including fresh fruit with low acidity and protein. Our bespoke breakfast provides all the energy visitors to the park need for a day of riding rollercoasters - but with none of the nausea!”

Morwenna Angove, Sales and Marketing Director at the Alton Towers Resort said “Alton Towers Resort has the best combination of thrilling rides in the UK, so it’s no wonder some guests may feel occasionally queasy should they choose to ride them again and again. We’re launching the new ‘Rider’s Breakfast’ with the unique ‘stay-down’ guarantee to ensure that guests can remain fully nourished while enjoying a full day of exhilaration at the theme park.”

The Rider’s Breakfast has been launched by the Alton Towers Resort to mark the launch of Adrenalin Week. Adrenalin Week runs 2nd – 7th November and celebrates the end of the theme park season with nothing but pure adrenalin-pumping thrill rides from 10-4pm everyday. To book tickets including a 10 unlimited rides for £10 offer visit www.altontowers.com

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For further information and images, please contact Frank PR on 0207 693 6999 / 07946069051 or email altontowers@frankpr.it



Notes to editors:

RIDER’S BREAKFAST MEAL BY DR DAVID LEWIS

Yoghurt mixed with blueberries, Granola and honey.

The Yoghurt provides protein for energy as well as digestion aiding bacteria. Blueberries are rich in chemicals called anthocyanins, and phytochemicals believed to play a role in reducing inflammation that can occur when we feel nauseous. The Granola and honey help you feel full and provide additional energy.

Grilled organic bacon in whole meal bap with tomato.

These provide an excellent source of easily digested nourishment which, being low on the Glycemic Index, help ensure that this is released slowly but surely across the morning.

Celery juice with carrot and ginger.

Ginger is well known for its nausea combating powers; the carrot provides essential vitamins while celery has been used for centuries to relieve pain. It also contains 3-N-butyl-phthalide a compound shown to lower blood pressure in animal studies.

Dr David Lewis has made a special study of people’s reactions to white knuckle rides and believes that eating the right kind of breakfast before setting out for a day of roller coaster rides is essential to enjoying the experience to the full. “When we go on ride we experience what I term ‘fun fear’.

“Your brain and body react as if you were in real danger even though, intellectually, you are well aware that the ride, however dangerous it appears is actually completely safe. Excitement triggers what is called our body’s fight or flight response, which causes an increase in heart rate and sweating. At the same time digestion is slowed down, which explains why when queuing for a ride you may notice your mouth has gone dry and your stomach is churning. This is where having had the right kind of nourishing food for breakfast comes to your aid. The food should be wholesome and easily digested while, at the same time, being low on what is called the Glycemic Index. This includes carbohydrates such as oats, barley or bran and bread or rolls with whole grains, stone-ground flour, and sour dough that produce only minor fluctuations in blood glucose and insulin levels. Your breakfast should also include fresh fruit with low acidity plus protein, from meat or yoghurt, to provide all the energy you will need.”

ADRENALINE WEEK

Alton Towers Resort Adrenalin Week runs 2nd – 7th November and celebrates the end of the theme park season with nothing but pure adrenalin-pumping thrill rides from 10-4pm everyday.

Experience the death defying drop of Oblivion, the flaming loops of Nemesis, the exhilarating feeling of being weightless on Air and seven more of the UK’s best thrill rides, all for an unbeatable £10*.

For a double dose of thrill, why not escape to the two on-site themed hotels for the special rate of just £35 per person per night including breakfast and theme park tickets (based on 4 people sharing a family room).

For more information and booking visit visit www.altontowers.com

*when booked online

Tuesday 27 October 2009

NEWS FROM RUSSELL ATHLETIC


RUSSELL ATHLETIC TAKES CONSUMERS BACK TO THE 80s WITH NEW VIRAL

Legendary sportswear brand Russell Athletic celebrates its return to the UK with the launch of a fun viral experience that lets consumers be the star of their own retro movies – the‘80s-izer’. The site is now live at http://80s-izer.russellathletic.eu/

Created by Frank PR the tongue in cheek site allows consumers to upload photos of themselves, friends, family or anyone else into the 80s-izer where they can star as a number of classic 80s characters in a series of short films. The site also allows users to Twitter and Facebook their films.

Starring a roller skater, muscle beach body builder, break dancer, American footballer and a trio of aerobics instructors, the Russell Athletic viral has been inspired by the return of the 80s in popular culture and its roots as a classic American college brand.

The viral is a celebration of an iconic decade - one synonymous with the rise of Russell Athletic and its legacy as one of America’s largest sports and athletic apparel producers. The site also showcases the Russell Athletic SS10 collection.

Founded in 1902, Russell Athletic is the original American sportswear brand. The Russell Athletic heritage began in Alabama, with just eight knitting and 12 sewing machines, plus a focus on developing quality fabric. From these humble origins, the brand has grown into one of America’s largest sports and athletics apparel producers. During its 107 year history, Russell Athletic has dressed American athletes across field, track and court - including stars of the Major League Baseball, the NBA and the AFL.

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For more information, contact Frank PR on russellathletic@frankpr.it or 020 7693 6999.
Stockist Number 01923 475 663

Notes to Editors:
Frank PR produced the viral working with digital agency Neoco

Tuesday 20 October 2009

NEWS FROM HONEY MONSTER


HONEY MONSTER BECOMES FUN KIDS RADIO DJ

Fun Kids, the Sony award winning station announces that its latest recruit to join the radio station is none other than Honey Monster. As a roving reporter for the kids focused station, the yellow furry one will be taking to the air waves from 31st October with his very own daily radio slot.

Honey Monster will be on air for 12 weeks and will include interviews with some of his celebrity friends and exciting features such as ‘Monster films’ where Honey Monster reviews the latest film releases and ‘Out and about’ with top tips on the best places to go in the UK. In order to prepare for his new job, Honey Monster has been shadowing Fun Kids Radio’s breakfast presenter James Beckingham to learn everything there is to know about life as a reporter.

On working with Honey Monster, James of Fun Kids Radio said ‘I’m really excited about Honey Monster going live on air, we’ve been working on some really fun and unique features which I’m sure our listeners will just love. Honey Monster is the perfect fit for Fun Kids Radio as he appeals directly to our target market and can up the fun factor on the station even further’.

This will be the first time Honey Monster has featured in a regular slot on the radio, but he is no stranger to the music business after collaborating with Samanda on the single ‘Honey Love’ released last year.

Speaking about the latest development in his career, Honey Monster commented: ‘I can’t wait to work on the radio, Chris Moyles had better watch out, I’m going to be radio’s biggest DJ in more ways than one’.

Remember to tune in from 31st October 2009 to catch Honey Monster in action.

For further information and images, please contact Frank PR on 0207 693 6999 or honeymonster@frankpr.it

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NOTES TO EDITORS
Honey Monster Foods Ltd, formed in September 2006, is a division of Big Bear Group Ltd., which itself was established in 2003

Fun Kids is a radio station for children under 10 and their mums and dads, playing a broad mix of popular music, speech, games and stories in an informative, entertaining and fun style. Fun Kids is available in London on DAB Digital Radio and across the UK on Sky Digital 0171, Virgin Media 926 and online at www.funkidslive.com.

The Honey Monster Reports will include:
• Saturdays – Out and About - top tips on the best places to go in the UK
• Sunday – Fun and Games – great activities and games to play with the family
• Monday – Monster in the Spotlight – Honey Monster explores the wonderful world of monsters
• Tuesday – Monster Interviews – celebrity interviews
• Wednesday – It’s a Monster Week! – a look at events of the week
• Thursday – Monster Waffle Challenge – your chance to waffle away
• Friday – Monstrous Film Reviews - Honey Monster reviews the latest film releases

NEWS FROM CELEBRITY MUM OF THE YEAR

IS ‘THE PRICE’ IS RIGHT?

JORDAN MAKES SHORTLIST FOR CELEBRITY MUM OF THE YEAR

Katie Price has been capturing headlines for all the wrong reasons over the last few months but she’s doing something right as she is nominated again for this year’s official Bounty Celebrity Mum of the Year.

Despite a public and an acrimonious divorce, Katie’s been shortlisted by the public for this year’s coveted official Bounty Celebrity Mum of the Year Award. But she faces stiff competition from 19 other nominations going head to head to be crowned official Bounty Celebrity Mum of the Year.

Celebrity mums from the world of pop, radio and TV have been shortlisted by the public for a multitude of reasons ranging from; admiration and aspiration, their ability to fight back in the face of adversity and tragedy, for balancing hectic public lives with the pressures of parenting, as well as for shunning the public eye altogether in favour of family.

Radio presenters Edith Bowman and Emma Bunton are up against TV presenters Holly Willoughby, Tess Daly and Kate Garraway who have been shortlisted by the public for the prestigious award. Strictly Come Dancing presenter Tess Daly risks being outshone by show contestant Jo Wood, who has danced her way into the nation’s hearts, but which mum is ‘strictly’ the best?

Last year’s winner Suzanne Shaw makes the shortlist as do Fern Britton and Holly Willoughby.

Notably missing is previous winner Kerry Katona and for the first time Victoria Beckham, with her move to LA distancing her from her fellow Brits.

In the ninth year of the prestigious award the public has been logging on to www.bounty.com/celebmum to vote for their favorite celebrity mums creating a shortlist of 20.

The women jostling for the title at present are (in no particular order):

Geri Halliwell
Jo Wood
Myleene Klass
Tess Daly
Edith Bowman
Holly Willoughby
Katie Price
Kym Marsh
Charlotte Church
Billie Piper
Kate Garraway
Sophie Ellis Bextor
Fern Britton
Suzanne Shaw
Emma Bunton
Samantha Cameron
Natasha Kaplinsky
Coleen Nolan
Mel B
Kate Moss

Members of the public have swamped www.bounty.com/celebmum since the nominations opened three weeks ago. The official Bounty Celebrity Mum Of The Year award aims to reward the celebrity mum who has impressed the public by balancing a hectic public life with the demands of parenting. An award will also be given to the official Bounty Real Mum of the Year.

Britain has until midnight on 1st November to vote for its celebrity mum from the short listed top 20 by registering nominations at www.bounty.com/celebmum with the winner presented with their award at an exclusive presentation ceremony on 4th November at London’s Grosvenor House Hotel.

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For further information on the event, a photo call notice and celebrity interview requests please contact the team on 020 7693 6999 or email: celebritymum2009@frankpr.it


Editors notes

Bounty (www.bounty.com) is the UK’s favourite parenting club, providing information, support and products for young families throughout the four key-life stages: pre-birth, birth, toddlers and pre-school.
With 2.5 million members and over 50,000 new members joining every month, Bounty has approximately 96% market coverage of the estimated 800,000 annual births in the UK.
www.bounty.com is the UK’s favourite parenting website and the largest online meeting point for mums in the UK with over 12 million impressions each month, 750,000 opted-in members and a further 28,000 new members joining each month

Monday 19 October 2009

NEWS FROM COMPARETHEMEERKAT.COM




Meerkats Make Christmas Presents Simples

Official talking toy available only at Harrods

Aleksandr Orlov, founder of comparethemeerkat.com is finally answering the demands of his huge fanbase with the launch of a limited edition ‘Aleksandr talking toy’ due to arrive exclusively at Harrods in time for Christmas.

The star of comparethemarket.com’s TV adverts has brokered a deal with the World’s most famous department store to stock a limited number of the furry meerkat toys.

Set to be the must-have toy for Christmas 2009, the talking Aleksandr Orlov replica comes complete with his trademark smoking jacket and paisley silk cravat, and says Aleksandr’s ‘Simples!’ catchphrase and distinctive squeak, when his belly is squeezed.

The toys will be sold at £19.95 each, with a donation* from every one sold going to ZSL London Zoo, to help support their conservation work,

Aleksandr Orlov said, “Please make welcomes for new handsome Aleksandr action toy in box! Sergei have pricked paws many time to make sure cravat design is just right. Now peoples can have physical reminder that I compare meerkats only. Luxurious toy will appear in Harrods, run by good business friend Mr. Al Fayed.”

Available to buy exclusively at Harrods from early December, it is predicted that the toys will sell out quickly, so to keep updated on when they will be available, visit comparethemeerkat.com. Alternatively become Aleksandr’s friend on Facebook or follow him on twitter.

*comparethemeerkat.com will donate £4.34 (plus VAT) for each product sold to ZSL London Zoo. The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) is a registered Charity No. 208728.

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For further information, samples or images, please contact Frank PR 0207 693 6999 or email comparethemeerkat@frankpr.it

Aleksandr’s Notes to Editors:

· comparethemeerkat.com is cutting edge meerkat comparison website that was launch at the very beginnings of the internet. It is also first ever website to use latest computamabob technologies to make comparing of meerkats more efficient than ever before.

· comparethemeerkat.com has over 1400 different shaped and sized meerkats to compare. If we can’t find meerkat right for you, I will eat my cravat.

· Remember, comparethemeerkat.com cannot find you cheap car insurance. All timewasters please go to comparethemarket.com.

comparethemarket.com is a trading name of BISL Limited, Pegasus House, Bakewell Road, Orton Southgate, Peterborough, PE2 6YS. Registered in England No. 3231094.

BISL Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

Wednesday 14 October 2009

NEWS FROM THE METRO SKI AND SNOWBOARD SHOW



Sammy, the world’s first skiing dog, is captured here in training for his debut at the Metro Ski and Snowboard Show.

Sammy, aged 4, has been preparing for his first-ever professional appearance for the past 8 months. Hailing from Bedford, Sammy and his trainer Sally have been practising regularly at the Sno Zone in Milton Keynes to perfect his skiing technique.

His trainer Sally realised her pet’s talent during the heavy snow last winter. After a wave of inspiration, she put Sammy on a pair of her son’s skis, fastened a rope to them and pulled him across the backyard. Sammy absolutely loved the experience and since that day, they have both been eagerly awaiting for the winter snows to return.

After hearing about Sammy’s talent, the organisers of the Metro Ski and Snowboard Show invited him to perform alongside the pros and offered him training time at the indoor snow-centre in Milton Keynes.

Tim Holmes, the manager of the Metro Ski and Snowboard Show, said “We’re very excited to have Sammy perform at the show. We have never before seen or heard of a skiing dog and believe he will be a huge hit with the visitors. Who knows, he may give the pro’s a run for their money!”

Sammy will be performing on Saturday 24th October at 1pm.

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For images or more information about Sammy or the Metro Ski and Snowboard Show please contact:

Frank PR on 020 7693 6999 or

NEWS FROM HÄAGEN-DAZ


Music Be the Food of Love

New Häagen-Dazs advert to make you melt

Häagen-Dazs, the iconic ice cream brand, has announced today that it is launching a new advert at 7.30pm on Monday 12th October 2009.

Entitled ‘Melt Together’, the new advert plays on the theme of closeness featuring choreography and dancers from the Ukrainian National Ballet. Directed by Philippe André, the advert follows a couple as they share a tender moment behind-the-scenes at a performance of Swan Lake, and features the track Open Up Your Door by solo artist Richard Hawley.

Melt Together is the first brand commercial for Häagen-Dazs since 2005 and comes as part of a wider rebrand for the ice-cream, which focuses on the experience of sharing with someone special. The new Melt Together strap-line aims to position the brand as an initiator of moments of closeness.

Ed Culf, Marketing Director at General Mills said: “We’re very excited to announce the launch of our new advert. Melt Together aims to capture that true moment of closeness between a couple and show how Häagen-Dazs can make those moments extra special.”

The advert which will be shown in a 40 second spot has been created by advertising agency TBWA\ and will launch during Ugly Betty on Channel 4 at 22.10pm on Monday 12th October.


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For images or more information about the advert or Häagen-Dazs please contact:

Frank PR on 020 7693 6999 or katebrackenborough@frankpr.it

Notes to Editors:

Key spots include:

12/10 C4, Ugly Betty

15/10 C4, Location, Location, Location

17/10 ITV, X-Factor

Creative:

We open on an ornate opulent theatre where a ballet performance is taking place. We pan high into the rafters and find a young couple sitting in the middle of a walkway looking down at the amazing performance. It’s a young stagehand who has taken his girlfriend to this amazing location for a behind the scenes view of the theatre. They need to be really quiet with the incredible performance taking place beneath them and can only communicate through touch, every time they touch, we see a subtitle appear. They have the best seats in the house and she is amazed by the view, our stagehand pulls out a spoon from his breast pocket and to top off an already fantastic moment he produces a tub of Häagen-Dazs. She leans over and gently kisses him on the cheek, a subtitle appears: ‘Thank you’, as the camera moves even higher we realise the two of them are now sitting close together, arms wrapped around each other’s back, we end on a Häagen-Dazs pack shot and the line ‘Melt Together’.

Credits:

Client: Abigail Marr

Advertising Agency: TBWA\

Creative Directors: Graham Cappi and James Gillham

Writer: Graham Cappi

Art Director: James Gillham

Agency Producer: Tamara Kennon

Planner: Kate Reading/Tom Morton

Director: Phillipe André

Production Company: Independent

Music: STREAM\Music

NEWS FROM ALTON TOWERS



THE UK’S SCARIEST RIDE?

Wannabe vampires get put through their paces ahead of Scarefest - the annual Halloween celebrations at the Alton Towers Resort which start this Saturday. Swooping into the Resort on the Air ride, hundreds of aspiring undead turned up with the hope of winning an acting role to scare visitors during the two-week event which runs from the 17th October – 1st November.

Further Details

Escape to the Alton Towers Resort this Halloween. Home to tricks, treats, ghosts and ghouls, there’s a whole host of spine-tingling spooks for all the family across the Resort during Scarefest.

Trick or Treat Doors – Meet Millicent, Molly and Meg at their spell-binding three door cottage. These peculiar witches return each Halloween to shower the children of Alton with tricks….and treats of course!
Scarefest Characters – Our resident spooky friends Patch, Franklin, Skelvin and Phil will be roaming the Resort. Pose for photographs with your favourite character - the perfect Scarefest souvenir!
Duel: Live! – Hidden in Gloomy Wood stands an eerie manor house. Once home to a wealthy Victorian family, the creepy residence is now inhabited by a host of extra spooky spirits – dare you step inside?
Late opening – Theme Park fun is extended to 9pm every night!

Pumpkin ratings will be applied to each Halloween attraction at the Resort to highlight their spook factor, making it easy for parents to choose the attractions most suited to their child’s age.

The fun continues into the evening over at the two Resort Hotels, with spooks and scares to suit all ages. The Alton Towers Hotel becomes inhabited by witches this Halloween, so join in the hocus-pocus and be on the look out for spells and potions….and of course hats and cats! Check into the specially themed Trick or Treat rooms** and challenge the family to discover the hidden prizes…or forfeits! With goody bags for the children and free spooky movies for the duration of your stay, these rooms are extremely popular so book early to avoid disappointment on 0871 222 6672.

Splash Landings Hotel will become Patch’s Pumpkin Hide-out! Help Patch on his mission to ensure the entire Resort is supplied with pumpkins big and small!

With entertainment throughout the evening, youngsters can join Pirate Bill on his ghost hunt, join the mischievous character in Ringo’s spooktacular celebration and dance along to the Witches Show.

Ghost Hunt – Pirate Bill needs your help in finding those hidden ghosts and ghouls
Witches Show – sing and dance along to the songs dedicated to the season in the atrium of the Alton Towers Hotel

Plus, for older children and parents with nerves of steel, one indoor and two outdoor scare attractions** will be available for both Theme Park guests and Hotel residents. Terror of the Towers: What Lies Within* is based within the Gothic Towers upon the Theme Park and challenges victims to brave the evil forces lurking within, whilst The Boiler House** and the Field of 1000 Screams** located alongside the Hotels guarantee real terror, so enter at your own risk…

Prices and Info

Park entrance tickets start at £29 for adults and £22 for kids under 12, or £83 for a family of four when booked in advance online at www.altontowers.com.

Ensure you experience all the Resort has to offer and stayover from just £41.50*** pppn based on four sharing a family room. Trick or Treat rooms carry a £75 supplement. Call 0871 222 6672 to book.


*Terror of the Towers is not suitable for children under 14.

** An extra charge applies.

*** Terms and Conditions apply. Subject to availability.

****Calls to this number cost 10 pence per minute on the BT network, other carriers and mobiles may vary.

For the best ticket deals, visit www.altontowers.com

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For further information and images, please contact Frank PR on 0207 693 6999 / 07946069051or email altontowers@frankpr.it



Notes to editors:

About Alton Towers

· Alton Towers Theme Park voted Consumers Favourite UK Theme Park Attraction – British Travel Awards 2007

· The Alton Towers Hotel was voted Best UK Family Hotel by the Mother & Baby Magazine Survey, August 2007.

· Alton Towers Theme Park voted Consumers Favourite UK Theme Park Attraction – British Travel Awards 2007

· The MERLIN ENTERTAINMENTS GROUP is the leading name in location based, family entertainment, which has seen the most successful and dynamic growth of any company in the sector over the last five years. The world’s second largest visitor attraction operator, Merlin has 58 attractions, 6 hotels and 2 holiday villages in 13 countries, across 3 continents. The company aims to deliver memorable and rewarding experiences to its 35 million visitors worldwide, through its iconic global and local brands, and the commitment and passion of its managers and 13,500 employees. Merlin Entertainments operates the following attractions – SEA LIFE including the SEA LIFE London Aquarium, Madame Tussauds, LEGOLAND, the London Eye, Dungeons, Gardaland, LEGOLAND Discovery Centres, Alton Towers Resort, Warwick Castle, THORPE PARK, Chessington World of Adventures & Zoo, Heide Park, and Earth Explorer

Monday 12 October 2009

NEWS FROM INNOCENT DRINKS



innocent Reunites 80s Choir to Launch Big Knit 2009

With 74 days left until Christmas, a surprise contender has entered the race to become Christmas Number One this year. Almost 30 years after they last topped the charts, innocent drinks have reunited the nation’s favourite grandma-lovers, 80s chart-toppers St Winifred’s School Choir to celebrate the 6th year of their Big Knit charity campaign.

Now mostly in their 30’s, the choir will be reformed as The innocent Big Knit Choir to re-record a 2009 version of their chart topping song ‘There’s No One Quite Like Grandma’. The song which originally rose to fame in 1980 and knocked music legend John Lennon off the number one spot for two weeks will be re-released this November as the Big Knit charity single. All monies raised from the single and innocent hatted products will go towards this year’s target of raising over £250,000 for Age Concern and Help the Aged.

Ten of the original choir members, who now include a police detective, an HR consultant and a mortgage advisor, will make up The innocent Big Knit Choir including:

o Lisa Hughes, aged 38
o Eileen Brown, aged 40
o Nicola Williams, aged 38
o Catherine Bailey, aged 39
o Bernadette Egan, aged 38

Former X-Factor vocal coach Annie Skates, who has worked with artists including Elton John, Beyonce and Girls Aloud, will be ensuring The innocent Big Knit Choir sound pitch perfect and the re-release is produced by Darran Bennett, who’s publishing work includes artists from Fleetwood Mac to Britney Spears and as a producer took Holly Valance to Number One with ‘Kiss Kiss’.

To find out more about The Big Knit Choir, log onto www.innocentdrinks.co.uk/bigknitchoir

About The Big Knit charity campaign

Every year, the Big Knit sees members of the public hand-knit woollen hats for innocent Smoothies and Squeezies, and woollen warmers for innocent Veg Pots. For every woolly product sold in Sainsbury’s stores, innocent and Sainsbury’s give 35p to Age Concern and Help the Aged, supporting healthy eating and living projects for older people this winter.

innocent founder Richard Reed said, “Grandmas are the
cornerstone of the family and many contribute their time and wool every year to our Big Knit campaign – helping keep older people healthy and nourished at winter time. We wanted to raise even more money for this year’s Big Knit campaign and what better way to celebrate older people everywhere than by re-recording ‘There’s No One Quite Like Grandma.’”

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For more information or to interview a member of the choir, please contact the innocent team at Frank on innocent@frankpr.it or on 0207 693 6999

To find out more about The Big Knit Choir, log onto www.innocentdrinks.co.uk/bigknitchoir. Become a fan of The Big Knit Choir on Facebook and follow on Twitter @innocentdrinks (http://twitter.com/Innocentdrinks from your web browser) and if you are talking about The Big Knit Choir and want to link up with other choir fans just use #BIGKNITCHOIR in your Tweet.

Notes to editors:

• Innocent behatted smoothies, veg pots (*new*) and kids squeezies (*new*) will be on sale in Sainsbury’s nationwide from 4th November.

• To date the Big Knit, has raised over £600,000 and the initiative sees members of the public and Age Concern volunteers knit woollen hats for innocent Smoothies and Squeezies, and woollen warmers for innocent Veg Pots. For every woolly product sold in Sainsbury’s stores, innocent and Sainsbury’s will give 35p to Age Concern and Help the Aged.

• There's No-one Quite Like Grandma was originally a number one hit single by Stockport-based primary school choir St. Winifred's School Choir in 1980. It was the Christmas number one single in the United Kingdom from 27 December 1980 - 3 January 1981. The song was written by Gordon Lorenz.

• Age Concern and Help the Aged have joined together to form a single charity dedicated to improving the lives of older people

• Choir members and their home towns include:
o Lisa Hughes, from Stockport
o Eileen Brown, from Northwood
o Nicola Williams, from Stockport
o Catherine Bailey, from Bolton
o Bernadette Egan, from Dublin
o Diana Dyer, from Stockport
o Tara Daynes, from Camden
o Dominic Blythe, from Huddersfield
o Helen White, from Stockport
o Nicola Hulme, from Stockport

The Big Knit Fact File:

• It’s a sad fact that in the UK, 1 in 10 people over the age of 65 are malnourished. So when it’s nippy outside, it’s even more important for older people to look after themselves and make sure their bodies are in tip top shape.

• For every behatted smoothie, veg pot or squeezies sold in Sainsbury’s stores, innocent and Sainsbury’s will give 35p to Age Concern and Help the Aged.

• The monies raised will be used to support healthy eating and healthy living projects for older people. These include advice centres offering information on healthy eating as well as cooking clubs and get-togethers where older people can sit down and enjoy a meal in each other’s company.

• Innocent smoothies retail at £1.89, veg pots at £3.59 and kids’ squeezies at £1.99.

Friday 2 October 2009

NEWS FROM BRYLCREEM


The Next Brylcreem Boy is…

Today, for the first time in a decade, Brylcreem is unveiling its new celebrity Brylcreem Boy - test cricketing star and England international Kevin Pietersen.

Chosen for his sporting brilliance, quintessential creative style and confident swagger on and off the pitch, Kevin has that certain something that makes him a perfect fit for the iconic British brand. Kevin will join the illustrious ranks of some of Britain’s most revered sporting icons such as Denis Compton, Johnny Haynes and David Beckham.

Still the UK’s best known men’s styling brand after 80 celebrated years, Kevin will be the face of Brylcreem’s re-launched range of products that have quality, performance and style at their core.

The new formulation Brylcreem range has been restyled with a clean, classic and timelessly sharp look. On shelf in September/October 2009, the range includes three brand new offerings – including Brylcreem Cream, unique in the market: the multipurpose styling product that has been created to give a strong, invisible and truly re-mouldable hold.

Kevin Pietersen says: “It’s a real honour to be asked to be the next Brylcreem Boy – just look at the roll-call of names. Those are pretty big shoes to fill, but I’m eager to bring my own individual style and personality to the table.”

Jonathan Bull, Brylcreem Marketing Manager, comments: “Brylcreem Boys don’t come along very often but Kevin exudes the essential requirements of great looks, easy charm, and a touch of flair that make up the quintessential Brylcreem Boy. We’re delighted to have him on board.”

New Brylcreem product offerings:

Cream (75ml) – new multipurpose styling product has been created to give a strong and re-mouldable hold. Unlike most products, it is neither glossy nor matt, but a smooth cream that leaves hair with an invisible hold.

Clay (75ml) – offers a strong hold with a very matt finish. The product adds heavy texture and is great for roughing up to create a choppy style.

Extreme Gel (150ml) – delivers Brylcreem’s hardest ever hold so hair won’t budge all day.

The new Brylcreem range also includes:

Brylcreem Gels:

Strong Gel (150ml) – tough and durable, Brylcreem Strong gel is as dependable as it always has been. It has everything you need from a gel and will hold hair for up to 24hrs

Wet Gel (150ml) – delivers everything that you would expect from a good strong gel and is also specially formulated to give hair a shiny wet look

Gel Cream (150ml) – is a fluid white cream that will tame and smarten the most unmanageable hair with a light, natural hold

Brylcreem pots:

Wax (75ml) – a classic strong hold wax that is perfect to add texture and a light shine to short hair

Gel Wax (75ml) – spreads like a gel and holds like a wax, perfect to add light definition to short hair

Brylcreem Original Products:

Brylcreem Original – the product that has been styling men since 1928. It leaves a light, glossy hold and looks great on short sharp, masculine styles. Available in 150ml & 250ml variants and a 150ml Anti Dandruff formulation


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For further information please call Frank PR on Tel: 020 7693 6999 or email brylcreemteam@frankpr.it


Notes to Editors:

The range is available nationwide in Tesco, Sainsbury’s and all other good high street and grocery retailers from September/October 2009 and is priced from RRP £3.49

Alternate stockist details available on 01753 508123.

NEWS FROM COMPARETHEMEERKAT.COM



Aleksandr Orlov reveals new TV ad in first ever Facebook premiere

Favourite Russian meerkat, Aleksandr Orlov, is starring in a new TV advert, where we see him taking valuable time out of his hectic day to relax in a Jacuzzi. The new advert will be the UK’s first television advert to premiere on Facebook and will air to his half-a-million friends on 2nd October 2009 at 9.00am.

Jacuzzi will be the 5th advert featuring the meerkat and the first time the popular character from the ad campaign for comparethemarket.com is seen out of his traditional smoking jacket and cravat. The ad sees Aleksandr enjoying a soothing bath in his Russian mansion as he tries to relax from the stress of running his website comparethemeerkat.com. His trusty companion Sergei also stars and is on hand to make sure everything goes smoothly.

The new ad is the latest in Aleksandr’s campaign to highlight the difference between his own website comparethemeerkat.com and the website for cheap car insurance comparethemarket.com.

Aleksandr Orlov has become a cult phenomenon since the campaign launched in January 2009 with nearly 600,000 friends on Facebook and over 26,000 followers on twitter including some celebrity fans such as Stephen Fry and David Hasselhoff. Due to his social networking success, comparethemarket.com has decided to launch the advert exclusively on Facebook, before it hits TV screens.

Aleksandr Orlov said “Peoples still come to my website looking for cheap car insurance. This cause large head stress and I force have many relaxing Jacuzzi. Then I have brainwave, why not make new advertisement from comfort of bubbly bubbles? My soothing new Jacuzzi film will have special premiers on the Facebook as special treat for handsome internet friends.”

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For further information or images, please contact Frank PR on 0207 693 6999 or email comparethemeerkat@frankpr.it

Credits:
Advertising Agency: VCCP
Media Agency: Zed
PR Agency: Frank PR
TV Production: Passion


Notes to Editors:
• The new advert ‘Jacuzzi’ will air on Facebook at 9.00am on Friday 3rd October
• comparethemeerkat.com is cutting edge meerkat comparison website that was launch at the very beginnings of the internet. It is also first ever website to use latest computamabob technologies to make comparing of meerkats more efficient than ever before.
• comparethemeerkat.com has over 1400 different shaped and sized meerkats to compare. If we can’t find meerkat right for you, I will eat my cravat.
• Remember, comparethemeerkat.com cannot find you cheap car insurance. All timewasters please go to comparethemarket.com.

comparethemarket.com is a trading name of BISL Limited, Pegasus House, Bakewell Road, Orton Southgate, Peterborough, PE2 6YS. Registered in England No. 3231094.

BISL Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

NEWS FROM HOVIS


The Proof is in the (Bread & Butter) Pudding

Hovis creates the World’s Largest Bread & Butter Pudding as a celebration of British Food Fortnight

Pudding lovers from around the world rejoiced today as Hovis unveiled the World’s largest Bread & Butter Pudding. The creation, a gigantic 7ft by 5ft colossus weighed in at more than 1500kg and surprised even staff at the Hovis bakery when it was finally taken out of the oven. Its weight alone is equivalent to more than two baby elephants!

It took a team of seven Hovis bread experts more than 49 man hours to prepare and bake, proving a logistical challenge for staff. The Pudding is made up of more than 1000 slices of bread, 70 apples and 56 whole eggs.

The largest pudding of its kind in living memory, it will feed more than 250 Hovis employees and their families.

British Food Fortnight is the annual celebration of Britain’s favourite home-grown foods and brands.

To create the world’s largest Bread and Butter Pudding, the world’s largest baking tray also had to be created. Specifically planned and built for the project, it was crafted by metal experts using high quality aeroplane grade Aluminium and strengthened to withstand the extreme temperatures and weight it was exposed to.

The pudding is not only huge and tasty; but is also a healthy alternative to the traditional, heavy British dessert as it was made with wholemeal bread, semi-skimmed milk and low fat margarine.

Hovis has been communicating the nutritional value of its bread since 1892 when it discovered the health benefits of Wheatgerm. All Hovis products are free from artificial preservatives and flavourings.

You too can celebrate ‘British Food Fortnight’ by making your own ‘smaller version’ of Hovis’ Bread & Butter Pudding.

Ingredients
8 slices of Hovis Original Wheatgerm bread, crusts removed
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon water
2 medium apples
2 1/2 cups trim milk
2 teaspoons vanilla essence
3 eggs
2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 tablespoons white sugar
Instructions
Peel, core and cut apple into thin slices. Dissolve the brown sugar in the water in a medium frying pan over low heat, add apples, cover and simmer for around 5 minutes until tender.

Lightly oil a 1.5 liter (6 cup) ovenproof dish. Cut bread slices in half and arrange bread and apples in alternate layers in dish. Whisk milk, vanilla, eggs, lemon rind and cinnamon together and pour carefully over the bread and apple. Sprinkle with extra sugar. Cook for 45-60 minutes in a slow oven (160°C).


For more information please email hovis@frankpr.it or call 0207 693 6999

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Notes to Editors:
· The full Hovis range includes; Hovis Soft White (medium and thick slice); Hovis Original Wheatgerm; Hovis Wholemeal; Hovis Granary; Hovis Farmhouse White and Hovis Seed Sensations Light & Nutty

· All Hovis products are free from artificial preservatives and flavourings.