Innholdsfortegnelse for December 29, 2015 i Woman's Weekly

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Hello!

Happy Christmas Phew! The months of planning, the weeks of organising, the days of detail checking and the last-minute flourishes are all complete. And that’s just our preparations for the Christmas issues here on the magazine! You can double that for the Woman’s Weekly team, when you include all the arrangements for our own ‘real-life’ Christmases. I can’t pretend that there aren’t a few moments during the mad busy-ness of the run-up to the festive season when I wonder if all the fuss and bother is worth it. But then we get to this time of year and I look at my house twinkling with decorations and lights, my fridge full of the family’s favourite treats, the carefully chosen presents wrapped and waiting, and I know the fact that my…

1 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

A Cup Of Tea With Anita Dobson

How do you like your tea? I have builder’s tea, quite strong with a little bit of honey. Who would you most like to have a cup of tea with? Bill Nighy. I think he’s one of the finest actors in this country, and he gets involved in so many wonderful charity projects. Did you go to the panto much as a child? I was about four when my mum and grandad first took me to one. Apparently, I spent the whole show singing and dancing in the aisle, which I’m sure was rather annoying at the time! But of course, that’s what panto’s ’ all about. What's the best thing about doing panto? The children. Fairy stories are wonderful, and they’re very moral as well as inspiring and magical.…

1 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Why You’ll Love... North Berwick

Where I went This vibrant seaside town is on the shores of the Firth of Forth about 25 miles from Edinburgh. There’s a reason this part of Scotland is known as the Golf Coast, it’s a Mecca for players, with 22 top-class courses to choose from. What I did We were lucky to enjoy a rain-free weekend even though it was autumn so it was a delight to amble along the town’s buzzy high street and dip into the many terrific galleries, shops and delis. Nearby Tantallon Castle, partially ruined 14th-century fortress is not to be missed, and strolling round the town’s harbour and along the beaches is a lovely way to spend an afternoon, even if it’s in a warm coat and wellies. Where I stayed As I was…

1 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

You Look Great!

Pat Blackman, 66, Histon Tell us about your look… I prefer smart clothes and I’m much happier in bright colours. I occasionally wear dresses but I feel better in trousers. My coat is from Boden and I bought the bag on holiday in Greece. I’m shopping for a hat today, but I haven’t managed to find one yet! My favourite brand is Mint Velvet as I feel their things are a little bit different. And the best bit of your body? My hair. Jackie Whitaker, 57, St Ives Tell us about your look… I like to be casual and comfortable, and I like colour. My coat is from House of Fraser, the scarf is from Joules and my jeans and boots are from Next. I do a lot of online…

2 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Bourne To Dance

Three Mills Studios, London, and award-winning director and choreographer Matthew Bourne strides in... and greets the wrong person. ‘Oh, you’re Ella?’ He pushes his thick trademark glasses further up on his face and bursts into laughter. ‘Well, this is awkward!’ We leave the confused young woman to her coffee and begin our chat about his ideas and inspirations. Then, there’s a fire alarm. ‘Not the best of starts,’ he acknowledges as we eventually reconvene in a chilly outdoor catering tent. Dressed casually in jeans and a checked shirt, Matthew, 55, is natural, polite and full of fun. Snuggled on his lap is his seven-month-old Russian toy terrier, Ferdinand, looking slightly sad in a huge plastic vet’s cone. ‘He’s just had the chop, bless him,’ says Matthew. ‘I didn’t want to…

6 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

The Power Of Bob

Bob Lowe is the perfect gent, there in good time to meet my train, and smartly turned out in grey trousers, a yellow sweater and cravat. On a small tour of his hometown of New Milton, Hampshire, it’s clear he’s a good, confident driver, but he grimaces with irritation when someone holds him up. ‘I’m a bit impatient,’ he admits. ‘I get fed up with these old people.’ Here he gives me a look, as any 93-year-old might, after delivering such a line, before driving back to his bungalow, where sandwiches and cake are waiting. Admittedly, Bob’s an unlikely chap to be in the public eye. He’s been propelled there by love, grief, loneliness – and Esther Rantzen. After he was widowed, Bob wrote a poem, Ode To Kath (see…

5 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Three Words

“ f you could describe me in I three words, what would they be?” My mother puts down her coffee cup and gives me a suspicious look. “What sort of question’s that?” “It’s one I see in a magazine every week. A celebrity has to say how their friends and family would describe them in three words.” It had got me thinking about how I came across. Of course, I knew I was Annie Fielding: daughter, wife, mother, friend and colleague. But how did others see me? My mother scrutinises me through narrowed eyes. “Are you having a breakdown?” “For goodness’ sake, Mum, it’s a simple enough question!” She screws up her face, as if I’ve asked her to describe the meaning of life. She’s probably dying to get back…

4 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

What A Pantomime

Fiction Editor, Gaynor Introducing someone new to the family can be quite a performance, as this story shows My two girls lay on the lounge rug in front of the fire. The notebook I’d given them lay open. Ca rrie, the eldest, had a story to tell. “Then the princess says, ‘You can’t take my dragon away because he’s big and strong and he’ll sort you out if you argue.’” Her little sister, Grace, nodded. “That’s good. Write that down.” “I am.” Carrie’s pen wriggled over the page. We’d planned to go out for some fresh air, but the weather had deteriorated. Both of them had looked so fed up, I suggested they wrote a pantomime. I’d even promised costumes. My evening dresses were probably trembling on their hangers in…

9 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Woman’s Weekly Offers

Electric Blankets These luxurious electric blankets heat up quickly, keeping you lovely and warm on the coldest of nights. Featuring three heat settings, a heat level indicator and removable power cords for hand washing, they are available in a choice of Soft Standard luxury polyester lining or luxury Cosy Fleece lining. They also come in three sizes: single, double and king. The single is heated by a 50W element and comes with a detachable controller; the double and king sizes feature two 50W elements and two controllers – allowing you to always keep your half of the bed at the temperature that’s perfect for you. Oscillating 1200W Halogen Heaters State-of-the-art halogen tubes are built into this composite moulded ‘cool-touch’ casing mounted on a clever oscillating base to warm any room…

2 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Your 2015 Christmas Quiz

Sports and Games 1 What in crick et are the small wooden pieces bridging the stumps ? 2 IBM’s super-computer Deep Blue is a mast er of what game? 3 With a wreath of what – fig or olive leaves – were winners at the ancient Greek Olympic games crowned? 4 In bridge, what is a match of three games between the same players called? 5 AT which sport – boxing, canoeing or darts – is Nicola Adams a leading exponent? 6 How many dark-coloured squares are there on an English draughts board? 7 Which animal – cat, horse or mouse – has replaced the iron-shaped playing piece in Monopoly ? 8 What women’s sport includes balance beam and floor exercise in its event repertoire? 9 For salmon and what…

7 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Enjoy a laugh!

New year is definitely a time for fun and belly laughs. Laughter is one of life’s natural medicines. It can strengthen our immune system, boost energy levels and protect us from the damaging effects of stress. The benefits of a good hearty laugh are said to last for up to 45 minutes. Sadly, TENA Lady has found that many women are afraid to laugh in public because of bladder weakness, which makes them worried about leaks. The condition is more common than many people may think. In its recent survey, Never Be Afraid to Laugh* , brand leader** TENA Lady discovered that up to half (47%) of women in the UK experience bladder weakness, and a quarter of the 2,000 women surveyed felt self-conscious laughing in public. New Year, new…

3 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Catch Up With Our Strictly Cup Of Tea Interviews

We have such fun chatting to celebrities about their favourite kind of cuppa – and finding out how they spend their spare time and who inspires them. We’ve especially loved talking to the brilliant Strictly Come Dancing professionals – past and present. Have you read our interviews with your favourite stars? Take a look at womansweekly. com/acupoftea Do tell us what you think. There’s a comment box after each article. We love to hear from you…

1 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

One Winter’s Night

I suppose I first fell in love with Mitchell in just such a bar, on just such a night. It had been January, three or four years ago. No, more likely February, when the navel oranges were all in, and we’d done with picking, and we were tired and enjoying a beer, and wondering when we’d all meet up again. “This yours?” Mitchell said to me, and I thought he was talking about my baby son, Kevin, one year old back then, and crawling about on the floor at my feet. But he was talking about my old kit bag. “Somebody’s gonna step on that,” he said, and he picked it up and hung it on the back of my chair. He was boyish-looking and tanned, not the tallest of…

12 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Your pharmacy is there to help you

It can be hard to keep healthy in winter. So, with loads of colds and bugs around, it’s sensible to do as much as you possibly can to stay well. While many winter illnesses aren’t severe, they can make you feel quite unwell, possibly requiring you to spend several days in bed. This is especially true of flu and, because it can occasionally result in complications, such as bronchitis and pneumonia, it’s worth getting a flu jab. The flu jab is free to those most at risk, such as anyone aged 65 or over, anyone with a long-term health condition, pregnant women, or the main carer for an elderly or disabled person. The vaccine is also available free to young children as a nasal spray. Free advice from health professionals…

5 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

I’m really worried about my husband’s health

Dear Keren My husband is extremely overweight and has no interest in reducing his intake of food or alcohol. I’ve raised my concerns with him a number of times but all he does is shout at me. He sa ys he’s fine as he’s very fit and exercises, but I don’t think he is. I w orry about him ending up an invalid and me having to look after him. I’d dread that happening, especially if it’s because of something he could have avoided. Tessa, Ipswich I admire your honesty as it’s often very hard to admit that we aren’t looking forward to caring for our partners. There seems to be an unspoken acceptance that we should look after them and even a belief that we would relish it. That…

2 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

This Week: Caroline On… Tabletop Kitchen Gadgets

Q How does a multitasking cooking appliance make life easier? When the pressure’s on in the kitchen over the festive break, a cooking food processor can ease the load and free up the oven. These machines chop food and cook it, too, using a stirring paddle so you don’t have to watch the pot. The kCook CCC200WH, £329.99, from Kenwood, will whip up sauces for the Christmas table as well as making tasty one-pot dishes such as risotto. Though pricey, Tefal’s Cuisine Companion FE800, £699.95, sets the bar high, chopping, beating and whipping, kneading and proving dough, steaming and slow-cooking dishes. One alternative to these machines is a low-oil fryer, such as De’Longhi’s Multifry Extra Chef FH1394/1, £259.98. Chips are just one of its specialities, as this machine also turns…

3 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

A Peek At My Week

Come On In Love this welcoming message for canine visitors on the doors of a cafe on my walk to the station in the morning. Good Dog If you’re wondering how we got Hungarian vizsla Bramble to behave so impeccably on our fashion shoot ( page 20 ), it was all down to her owner (far left in the pic), a great deal of hand waving and calling, and a lot of treats! The Flowers That Bloom In The Spring I was bowled over by the gorgeous floral designs on Matalan’s spring/summer 2016 bedding. And it’s all based on a painting done by one of their design team (in the frame)! Poppies In The Park Spent a lovely weekend with friends near Huddersfield. We visited the…

1 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Letter Of The Week

I’d like to thank Paula Williams for her short story The 100 Day Journal [8 September]. Like the character, I lost my husband two-and-a-half years ago. At first, everything seemed black and every day was a ‘nothing’ day. The story, however, was a wake-up call and, like its heroine, I’ve now started my own journal. A month later, the writing is beginning to be therapeutic. It’s made me realise that life does go on, and there are still things I can do. Sue Crowe, Romsey, Hampshire We’re so glad this story didn’t just strike a chord, but inspired you in a practical way, Sue. We love to hear from you, so do get in touch if you have something to say…

1 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Garden Shed

1 Break up the crusty surface of the compost, caused by the build-up of salts and fertilisers, with a dessert fork to allow water to soak in. 2 Stand the pot in a bucket or bowl of tepid water until the compost is moistened right through and no more air bubbles rise from the pot. Giving plants a good soak every few weeks, rather than a quick sprinkle every day, helps them stay healthy. 3 Remove the pot from the bowl and allow it to drain. Move to a draught-free, lightly shaded spot to recover before returning it to its display area. From then on, water from above, and empty the saucer 30 minutes later. Upload your photo at womansweekly.com/yourgardens…

1 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

‘I’ve Finally Made Downton … In The Last Episode!’

It doesn’t seem long ago that Patricia Hodge was the go-to girl whenever a script demanded a slender, pale-haired ‘ice maiden’. Since then, of course, she’s been quietly transforming herself and, these days, Patricia – Pat to her friends – seems to be first choice when an eccentric, snobby mother is required. Complete strangers still shout: ‘Such fun!’ as she walks down the street – the catchphrase of her popular character, Penny in Miranda. The part of the bossy mum in the long-running hit comedy was written with Patricia in mind. And now she’s created another tricky matriarch for the last-ever episode of Downton Abbey, to be screened on Christmas Day – a role earmarked specifically for her by Julian Fellowes himself. ‘I can’t give the plot away,’ says Patricia,…

5 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

It’sA Funny Old World

Santa’s Little Elf here – a temporary annual role familiar to mums everywhere. Not only do I help that rascal Father Christmas leave just the right presents under the tree, but I often end up organising gifts from one family member to another because they run out of time or inspiration! It’s a relief on Christmas Day when everyone’s delighted and the room’s covered with gifts and wrapping. Mind you, I do recall a year when my then five-year-old daughter sat among a mountain of paper and asked, ‘Didn’t YOU get me anything, Mum?’ When it comes to presents, even the best can get it wrong. In our local school nativity play, the tallest of the Three Wise Men stepped forward and, in a booming six-year-old voice, announced, ‘We are…

3 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Ode To Kath

I am alone, now I know it’s true There was a time when we were two Those were the days when we would chat Doing little jobs of this and that We’d go to the shops and select our meals But now I’m one I know how it feels To try and cook or have meals on wheels The rooms are empty there’s not a sound Sometimes I’m lost and wander round To look for jobs that I can do To bring back the days when we were two When darkness falls and curtains drawn That’s when I feel most forlorn But I must be honest and tell the truth I’m not quite alone and here’s the proof Because beside me in her chair She quietly waits our time to…

1 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Baby, It’s Cold Outside

Deputy Editor Geoff’s burgundy trousers and scarf are the ideal warming winter shades Blazer, £70, sizes xs-xxl, trousers, £25, sizes 28s-46l, and scarf, £14, all Burton; gloves, £35, and shoes, £59, both M&S; cap, £22, House of Fraser Try a cape like Editor Diane for a smart alternative to a parka Cape, £25, sizes 8-20, Primark; jumper, £15, sizes 8-22, Next; jeans, £26, sizes 8-22, M&Co; hat, £8, Bonmarché; gloves, £18, Totes; boots, £65, Next Lifestyle Editor Jayne likes to wear an oversized scarf over a classic camel coat Coat, £89, sizes 10-30, also available in grey or burgundy, Damart; shirt, £17.99, sizes 6-20, New Look; skirt, £20, sizes 8-18, BHS; scarf, £14, Dorothy Perkins; boots, £32, M&S; bag, £49, Debenhams; socks, £7, sockshop.co.uk; tights, £14.95, Oroblu at mytights.com Fiction…

1 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

GAMES ON!

Brain Busters Linkee Two to 30 players; age 10+ Price: £19.99, Ocado (0345 656 1234; ocado.com) Played by: Home Editor Emily and friends. Aim of the game: To answer the four questions on the trivia card and work out what ‘links’ all four answers. If you get it right, you win a card with a letter on the back. The first person or team to spell out the word ‘linkee’ wins. Verdict: ‘Fast and fun game, but could possibly get a little boring after a while.’ Bananagrams One to eight players; age 5+ Price: £14.99, John Lewis (0345 604 9049; johnlewis.com) Played by: Senior Designer Lorna and her daughters, Lois, 12, and Erin, 10. Aim of the game: To make your own crossword. The first player to have no tiles…

5 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Come On Over

Menu Cranberry & Port-Glazed HamScandi Salmon With PicklesRoasted Vegetable MoussakaBrussels Sprout Winter SaladSpelt TabboulehChocolate & Coffee Ice-Cream PandoroCitrus Jelly Cups Cranberry & Port-Glazed Ham 3.5kg (8lb) unsmoked gammon 1 carrot, roughly chopped 1 celery stick, roughly chopped 1 onion, peeled and quartered 2 bay leaves 150ml (5fl oz) port FOR THE GLAzE: 100ml (3½fl oz) port 150g (5oz) cranberries 2tbsp light muscovado sugar 1 Tie extra string round the gammon, so that it keeps its shape while cooking. Put it into a large pan, add the carrot, celery, onion, bay leaves and port, then top up with cold water until covered. Bring to the boil (about 15 mins), then cover and simmer as gently as possible for 55 mins per 1kg (2¼lb). Cook for about 3½ hours. 2 To make…

6 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Fabulous Needle-Felting Workshops

Come along and join felting experts Judy Balchin and Roz Dace as they run our 2016 workshops. These full-day workshops are brilliant for complete beginners or for anyone keen on needle-felting, which is an easy technique to pick up. You just need a needle and a pile of fluff and, once you’ve learnt the basic method, you can make almost anything. Judy is a designer who’s written numerous craft books and articles. She attended Cardiff and then Maidstone College of Art, where she studied graphic design, before starting work as a designer at the BBC. Roz has always loved creative writing, drawing, painting and all crafts. For many years, she was Search Press’s editorial director, commissioning practical art and crafts books for international markets. Good Hare Day Monday 7 March…

3 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

New On Our Website This Week VIDEO GUIDES

How to knit cable stitch Cable patterns aren’t as difficult as they look. You create them by crossing stitches over one another. A number of stitches are placed on a special cable needle and left either at the back or front of your work while you carry on knitting away as normal. You return to those stitches later on. To see the technique in detail, look at our video guide at womansweekly.com/cableknit Enjoy all our fabulous, easy-to-follow video guides at womansweekly.com/videos…

1 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Two Of A Kind

Keep warm in a soft, cosy jumper. Here’s one for you with a snug hat, knitted in stocking stitch and double rib edgings; and one for him, knitted in a wide rib and cable, with matching scarf. WOMAN'S TUNIC AND HAT MEASUREMENTS Tunic: To fit sizes 76 (81) (86) (91) (97) (102) (107) (112) cm/30 (32) (34) (36) (38) (40) (42) (44) in. Actual measurements 85 (90.5) (96) (101.5) (107) (112.5) (118) (123.5) cm/ 33½ (35½) (37¾) (40) (42) (44¼) (46½) (48½) in. Side seam 46 (47) (47.5) (48) (49) (49.5) (50.5) (51) cm/18 (18½) (18¾) (19) (19¼) (19½) (19¾) (20) in. Length 64 (65) (66) (67) (68) (69) (70.5) (72) cm/25 (25½) (26) (26¼) (26¾) (27¼) (27¾) (28¼) in. Sleeve seam 49 (50) (50.5) (51.5) (52) (52.5) (53.5) (54.5)…

8 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Plant Of The Week

White Forsythia, as this scrambling shrub is sometimes known, gives off a sweet almond scent from November to March and welcome autumn colour as the leaves fall. Endangered in its native Korea, make a home for it in your garden! Buy one for £15 or buy three for only £20 and save £25. Call 01386 426245, or visit www.hayloft-plants.co.uk/ROWW15 hayloft-plants.co.uk/ROWW15. All plants will be despatched in 14 days. Contract of goods is with Hayloft Plants, a company wholly independent of Woman’s Weekly published by Time Inc. (UK) Ltd.…

1 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Health Choices

Natural Hormones Banished My Menopause Blues Following a hysterectomy in April 2014 for endometriosis and uterine polyps, I began to have horrendous menopause symptoms. I’d wake four or five times a night with hot flushes and night sweats – and alternate between throwing off the bed covers to scrambling back under the duvet, freezing cold. My husband was very patient, but he was on the verge of moving into the spare room! I’ve always slept well so having my sleep disrupted and feeling exhausted and forgetful all the time was awful – especially as I have a busy job. The physical and emotional toll meant that my sex drive was non-existent. My gynaecologist referred me to Dr Mukherjee, an endocrine specialist at Spire, a private hospital in Manchester (spiremanchester.com), and…

3 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Woman’s Weekly Offers

Cooks Professional 5ltr Stand Mixer The ultimate kitchen companion, this stylish stand mixer has a powerful 800W motor to help you create delicious homemade food from scratch. With a choice of three attachments, this stand mixer will tackle almost anything, from preparing meringues and cakes to mixing and kneading bread dough. The large 5ltr mixing bowl is great for mixing large quantities and comes with a splatter guard to avoid spillages, while the six speed settings and a pulse function make mixing, whipping, whisking and kneading quick and simple. The stand mixer comes with a flat beater for normal-to-heavy mixtures such as cakes, biscuits and pastry, a whisk for egg whites, and a dough hook for bread mixtures. Comes with a tilting head for easy removal of the bowl. Dimensions:…

3 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Travels With My Mother

It’s been a long time since I holidayed with my mum, but when she announced to my sister and I that, having read about Vietnam and Cambodia in this magazine, she was eager to visit them and would we like to go with her, I didn’t hesitate. Mum has always loved to travel, but since the deaths of my father and then, some years later, her partner, she’s struggled to find travel companions with the appetite and good health to accompany her on the adventurous trips she still loves to take – one of the drawbacks of living to a venerable age. But it became rapidly clear to us that arranging such an ambitious trip would be hugely time-consuming and highly stressful. It’s stating the obvious I know, but Vietnam…

5 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

This Is The Week To...

Enjoy Lapland UK Aiming to recreate the feel of Santa’s Arctic home, you’ll find Lapland UK in the Whitmoor Forest, near Ascot, your little ones can encounter reindeer, decorate gingerbread and ice-skate with elves. For details, call 0871 620 7063 or visit laplanduk.co.uk Visit Destination Space! Keep young ones busy this Christmas holiday at At-Bristol’s Destination Space! They can even see a hydrogen rocket being fired at the family science show that explores what it’s like to be an astronaut. For details, call 0117 915 1000 or visit at-bristol.org. uk Book Strictly Come Dancing UK Tour The 2015 TV season may be coming to an end, but the magic doesn’t stop there. In January and February, past contestants and their pro partners will tour the UK with this glittering extravaganza.…

1 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

GET IN TOUCH

We love letters Woman’s Weekly, 110 Southwark St, London SE1 0SU. PS. It really helps when you put your details in capitals We do not return photos (apart from ‘You Look Great!’) so please don’t send originals Email us Womansweeklypostbag @timeinc.com Tell us your full name, address and daytime phone number, please Fancy a chat? Log on to facebook.com/ womansweekly We can’t wait to hear from you! Important! All contributions to Woman’s Weekly must be original and NOT duplicated to other publications. £25 will be paid to the writer of the ‘Letter Of The Week’, and the ‘Good To Meet You’ contributor will receive a gift or similar as stated at time of publication of contribution, for all rights in each letter printed. The Editor reserves the…

1 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Book Choice

The Snow Queen by Hans Christian Andersen (£6.99, Pushkin Children's) Introduce little ones to this beautifully illustrated reissue of a classic tale – the inspiration for the Disney film Frozen . Kai and Gerda are best friends until Kai is cursed by the Devil’s mirror, blinding him to any goodness in life. When he’s kidnapped by the evil Snow Queen to live in her icy kingdom Gerda sets off on a perilous journey to find him. Intricate, enthralling, writing for adults and children alike.…

1 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

MY BEAUTIFUL CAREER

‘Pippin was a massive milestone for me because it was 1973, I wasn’t long out of drama school and this was a leading role in a West End musical, working with the legendary choreographer and director Bob Fosse.’ ‘Muriel Spark’s The Girls Of Slender Means in 1975 was almost my first piece of TV work. It was significant because I made friends with people like Miriam Margolyes.’ ‘In 1983, I appeared in Betrayal by Harold Pinter, my most important film role.’ ‘The Life And Loves Of A She-Devil in 1986 was extraordinary because it had to be shot on videotape because the BBC had spent so much money on filming The Singing Detective. When it came to handing out the awards, we eclipsed it.’ ‘I was at the National Theatre…

1 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

‘My Funny Old Week’

Where I’ve been… To carol services big and small. I love them – and the hot mince pies afterwards! What I’ve seen… The Thursford Christmas Spectacular, with its cast of 130, in the depths of Norfolk – my favourite Christmas treat! Who I’ve met… Vincent Uzomah, the Bradford teacher who publicly forgave the pupil who stabbed him this summer. A humble man with an inspirational message for us all at Christmas. What I’ve bought… A Santa outfit for my husband Richard to surprise the grandchildren – and perhaps me with a kiss under the mistletoe.…

1 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Beat The Boxing Day Bloat

It’s 4pm on Christmas Day and in common with the turkey a little while earlier, you’re feeling suitably plump and stuffed. So is it any wonder that by Boxing Day the zip on your dress won’t do up and you’re seriously uncomfortable. ‘Bloating is a common problem over the Christmas period and it has many causes,’ says GP Dr Roger Henderson (doctorhenderson.co.uk). ‘There’s the blow-out meals and the sheer volume of food consumed, but your festive habits can also lead to wind, gassiness, constipation and fluid retention, which are also bloating.’ Keep On Moving With seasonal editions of family TV shows like Strictly Come Dancing being so watchable and the weather so unpredictable, it’s tempting to snuggle up on the sofa all day, but don’t. ‘Exercise helps food and trapped…

5 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Take The Maxi Skirt And Wear It Like This, Too

STOCKISTS Boden 0844 873 0000; boden.co.uk F&F at Tesco 0845 075 5000; clothingattesco.com JD Williams 0871 231 2000; jdwilliams.co.uk Kurt Geiger 0845 257 2571; kurtgeiger.com Lindex lindex.com/uk Mint Velvet 0845 456 2200; mintvelvet.co.uk Monsoon 020 3372 3052; uk.monsoon.co.uk Next 0333 777 8000; next.co.uk OPI opiuk.com Phase Eight 020 7471 4422; phase-eight.com QVC 0800 514 131; qvcuk.com Zara 0800 030 4238; zara.com…

1 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Hello Christmas

Finished size: 11 x 7cm YOU WILL NEED • Tracing paper and sharp HB pencil • 10cm of 90cm-wide white felt • 30cm of 44cm-wide bonding web • 15 x 10cm rectangle of red and green felt • Scraps of yellow and black felt • Air-erasable fabric pen • Black, red and yellow stranded-cotton embroidery thread • Five 6mm white pompoms • Matching sewing thread Making paper patterns Trace the patterns on to tracing paper, placing any folded pieces on folded tracing paper, matching the fold lines against the fold. Open folded patterns out flat and draw the details. Cut out the Kitty, arm and hat patterns. Cutting out 1 Cut two 14 x 8cm rectangles from white felt and one 14 x 8cm rectangle of bonding web for each…

3 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Regional Fiction Workshops

In 2016, we’ll be running an even wider selection of our ever-popular workshops. To learn how to write fiction or poetry in a fun, friendly and supportive atmosphere, come and join in. There are lots of dates to choose from – including these in Glasgow and Manchester – so grab your diary and book a place now. For details about other workshops we are running, visit womansweekly.com/events £65 per person ABOUT OUR WRITING TUTORS Gaynor Davies is our Fiction Editor and Fiction Special Editor Della Galton is a novelist, short-story writer and journalist Short Story With A Twist Glasgow SECC on Thursday 3 March Please arrive between 10am and 10.30am to meet the tutors and other participants 10.30am TALK Writing a twist for the Woman’s Weekly audience with Gaynor 11am…

3 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

The Man Who Forgot How To Smile

There’s an old saying – a man without a smiling face must not open a shop. When I started working here, my boss was rather gruff but he’s been getting worse. It’s as if he’s forgotten how to smile. The shop sells toys, children’s books and fancy-dress costumes. With Christmas approaching fast, we should be busy. Instead, people walk by without even looking in the window. The display hasn’t changed since I started here, three months ago. Boring gets nowhere near it. I spoke to Graham about it the other day. “You need something Christmassy, something eye-catching.” “Huh,” he said, in a perfect imitation of Scrooge. “If people don’t know it’s Christmas, good luck to them.” Having spent most of my life as a housewife, it wasn’t easy finding employment…

9 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

A Story From Our Archives

We’re up to Part 4 of this heart-wrenching First World War serial… Jennifer waits all day in her wedding finery, but bridegroom Julian does not come. On his way to London, he meets with an accident and after an operation, he recovers his memory but forgets the last few days and his waiting bride-to-be… ‘Sometimes I am almost sure that Julian must be dead,’ Jennifer writes in her diary. ‘If he were alive, he would know, somehow, of the agony that seizes and tortures me.’ To listen to the audio podcast of this story, see womansweekly.com / abrokendream and press the orange ‘Play’ button. You can also catch up with Parts 1, 2 and 3.…

1 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Workshops that work!

OUR 2016 KNITTING & CROCHET WORKSHOPS IN LONDON TINA EGLETON WW's Technical Knitting Editor has over 40 years' experience. She's designed many of Woman’s Weekly's knitting patterns and is an expert tutor. FREDDIE PATMORE Our Knitting Assistant has been crocheting since she was a child. She's gone on to become a published author and designer and loves teaching our workshops. MONIKA COBEL Our newest member of the team has a calm and patient nature, making her an excellent tutor. She's now begun designing for Woman’s Weekly. How To Design Your Own Knitted Cardigan with Tina on Friday 15 April Would you like to be able to alter a knitting pattern to your own specifications? Now's your chance. We'll teach you how to work out a pattern for a simple stocking-stitch…

7 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

What’s Wrong With My Tongue?

Our tongues contain flexible muscles that allow us to speak, chew, suck and swallow, and are covered in touch and taste receptors that act as guardians to our bodies, and enable us to enjoy or reject various foods. Their surfaces have many papillae (tissue folds that look particularly large at the back) containing hundreds of taste buds which allow us to detect salt, sweet, bitter, acid and umami (savoury) flavours. Coated tongue This is usually caused by food debris trapped in the spaces between the papillae, and can lead to bacterial growth and bad breath (halitosis), or soreness (see below). It’s made worse by mouth dryness – for example, in dehydration or if saliva is reduced by dry mouth or Sjogren’s syndrome, drugs such as those used for incontinence, or…

6 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Here To Help

You should never have misled him Q My husband and I decided to separate recently as I felt the marriage was no longer meeting my needs. I went round the other day to collect the last bits I had in the house and I don’t know how it happened, but we ended up in bed together. He now believes that there’s a chance we can get back together again and is hounding me. I don’t know what to do. Mary, Liverpool A You can’t really blame your estranged husband, can you? I know these things can happen, but you clearly gave him very mixed messages. It sounds like he’s still keen to continue your relationship, so he‘ll have been looking for any sign of warmth on your part and then…

3 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

The Night Before Christmas

Myra crept along the dark hall and opened the lounge door. She hugged her dressing gown around her and breathed in the mix of pine needles and woodsmoke – the scents of Christmas. The clock above the fireplace said 10 to midnight, but clearly she was the only one who couldn’t sleep. The tree lights were still on. They were flashing red, blue, pink, green, silver and gold. One by one, the colours lit up the lounge. Red was for anger. Last Christmas Eve, Keith had come in late from work. No change there. Apart from the fact that he’d finished at lunchtime. It was almost 10 when she’d heard the front door. She’d been in the kitchen doing last-minute wrapping, and as usual she’d held her breath. Who would…

5 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Woman’s Weekly Travel Offers

Pompeii, Capri & The Bay Of Naples This fully escorted tour takes in the stunning Sorrento Peninsula and the Bay of Naples, one of the most beautiful parts of Europe. Selected departures April to October 2016. Price includes: Return flights to Naples from Gatwick, London Stansted, London Luton, Bristol, Newcastle International, East Midlands, Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow or Dublin, taxes and transfers Seven nights in a hand-picked three-or four-star Sorrento hotel with half board Sightseeing of Sorrento, Capri, Vesuvius, Naples’ National Archaeological Museum, Pompeii, the dramatic Amalfi Coast and scenic Ravello Escorted by an experienced tour manager Iceland Selected departures May to September 2016. Price includes: Return flights, including taxes and transfers Four nights’ three- or four-star hotel with breakfast Tour and visits to Reykjavik, Thingvellir National Park, Lake Thingvallavatn, the…

2 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Some Sunny Day

The story so far It is 1944 and VIVIENNE is pregnant with her first baby. Her romance with her husband, PIP, began in 1941 when a badly addressed letter to his mother in London accidentally went to Vivienne’s family home in Yorkshire. A lively correspondence ensued and Pip, a bomber pilot, asked if they could meet. He enclosed photographs of life at the RAF station in Lincolnshire where he was based. Vivienne was shocked to see her brother, JAMES, in the background of one. He’d been missing in action for 10 months. In 1943, Vivienne and Pip marry but their happiness is quickly overshadowed by the news that his sister, GEORGIE, has gone missing during an air raid over East London. The story now concludes December 1944 The band had…

16 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Your Stars With Russell Grant

Aries 21 March - 20 April It’s a fantastic time to share your ideas with friends, family and co-workers. It may be difficult to make any concrete changes until after Christmas, though. A much-loved relative will have something special to celebrate and you’ll want to make it an occasion they’ll remember. For more, call 0901 609 2591* Taurus 21 April - 21 May A surprise gift will come your way soon, giving you the opportunity to add to your knowledge. You’ll love studying a new subject that fills you with enthusiasm. In the meantime, enjoy taking time out to celebrate the festive season in the company of your friends and family. For more, call 0901 609 2592* Gemini 22 May - 21 June A heated discussion about Christmas costs will…

3 min

Woman's Weekly|December 29, 2015

Is It Illegal To Be Grumpy At Christmas? And Other Festive Questions…

As a change from the usual service and because this is a special festive edition of Woman’s Weekly, here are all your Christmas questions answered. Whether you asked them or not. Why do we decorate Christmas trees? We bring Christmas trees into the house because there isn’t much to do at this time of year in the way of buying presents, wrapping presents, attending nativity plays, trying to keep the sherry away from the older members of the family, cooking meals and washing up. So to fill the time, it’s a real treat to get down on our hands and knees and sweep up the pine needles that have dropped on the carpet. According to one story, it was Martin Luther – the man who invented Protestants – who put…

4 min