Latest news with #TheWindintheWillows
Spectator
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Spectator
Spectator Competition: Family matters
For Competition 3409 you were invited to submit parental advice courtesy of famous writers. Kurt Vonnegut's father's advice to his son gave me the idea for this challenge: 'Never take liquor into the bedroom. Don't stick anything in your ears. Be anything but an architect.' Your entries were witty and imaginative and there were many more potential winners than we have space for. Congratulations all round, and a special mention to George Simmers's Georges Perec, Joe Houlihan's Truman Capote, David Silverman's Shakespeare and Max Ross's Wordsworth. The following take the £25 John Lewis vouchers. We assume today that an adult's duty is to keep children entertained. This assumption can only lead to disappointment in adulthood and a disinclination to grow up at all. Children need to experience the banality of real life; the way potatoes, if allowed to boil dry, blacken and become bitter; the not-quite-matching of amateur wallpapering; the taste of a penny, licked on a long, boring Sunday afternoon. Bracing northern weather. Streets of houses whose only individuality is in their front doors. As for books, the terse precision of The Very Hungry Caterpillar shames me. Deprecate the florid whimsy of The Wind in the Willows, but cherish its hay-scented nostalgia. Do not expose your children to Milne or Barrie. Forbid Dahl, so that they can read him illicitly. Ensure that their clothing is a little dowdy and they will learn to secure approval through merit. Above all, be comically glum. Frank Upton/Alan Bennett I was never a child, chum. (Pause) But I can handle them. It's largely a matter of the equitable distribution of mint humbugs. (Pause) The sparing. Equitable. Distribution. They'll require repeated instruction. The youth of today possess little knowledge about the correct operation of a dumb waiter, the location of Sidcup or how to fashion an anecdote that goes very precisely nowhere. They'll take none of it in, hence the necessity and futility of repetition. Culture is wasted on them. They prefer pantomime to the tragedies of John Webster. (Pause) Oh yes they do. Sport is the thing to break them in. If they can play impassively a properly umpired game of cricket your work is done. Start on the small and work up, that's my motto. Should you fail, they'll become merely childish. Succeed and, in due time, you'll be eye to eye with something truly catastrophic: yourself. Adrian Fry/Harold Pinter Too much guff gets talked about fatherhood, most of it by childless sociologists. All a chap needs to make a decent fist of fathering is a wife who wants kids about three times as much as he does, a booklined study off-limits to the rest of the brood (decent single malt in top right-hand bureau drawer) and a repertoire of amusing faces – Monocled Headmaster Suffering Aneurism, Savonarola in Soho– to buck things up during meals you can't spend out at the Garrick. Children are drawn to the parent they see least, a win-win. You can go drinking with pals most days and still expect to pop up in as many memoirs or romans à clef as you have offspring. Your brood want bedtime stories? Dick Francis is bloody good and will simultaneously grip you and set them snoring like piglets before the end of the first furlong. Russell Clifton/Kingsley Amis A word of good advice while I still can – If you have based your life on solid virtue And been the best of Ideal English Man; If sticks and stones and words have never hurt you You may by now be just one half a man. Though 'If' has long inspired your moral core And helped defeat the blandishments of sin I'll say now, as I meant to warn before, You might have had some problems fitting in With friends who think you're now a priggish bore. So try to loosen up a bit, my son. Of all the Deadly Sins there must be one Which, tried discreetly just for one-off fun, Might win you street-cred as a proper man – And, what is more, an English man, my son. Martin Parker/Rudyard Kipling Along the muddy lanes of Hampstead Heath, Safe in a world of trams and buttered toast, The children, dry in hoods and sturdy boots, Return for tea – and tales of playground spats. Then give them Scott's Emulsion, rusks and malt, And fortify with scones and Ovaltine. Preparing them for School ma'am's iron rule, Ask, 'Now, how many pennies in a pound?' Then bath-time with the goddess Soap in hand, And off to Dreamland, tucked in eiderdown. But if young John should dare to disobey Be hard of heart – it's character they need. 'All right, bend over.' Three resounding thwacks From Father's gym-shoe bring a gulp. Then pause – A pat upon the head, a thoughtful smile: 'I liked the way you took that beating, John.' Ralph Goldswain/John Betjeman I have assembled you here, in this venerable library on this stormy night, to offer counsel. Your lives have run hitherto on well-worn rails – the cashiered major, the faded adventuress, the Bohemian aspiring artist, still aspiring, the bankrupt man of business – and your assorted branch lines now run through the wilderness. You have ignored my advice and let the priceless alignment of motive, method and opportunity evade you. Or so I thought – for I now recognise the early symptoms of arsenic poisoning. Was it the Turkish Delight? The brace of woodcock? The Circassian liqueur or the amusingly edible Romany cigarette holder? I have ignored my second rule and my scornful Hubris is now followed by Nemesis. I offer two bequests: My large fortune to my murderer, whichever one of you that might be. And secondly, the recommendation that you think very hard indeed before applying for probate. Nick Syrett/Agatha Christie No. 3412: Hard lines You are invited to submit a poem about the struggle of writing a poem (16 lines maximum).Please email entries to competition@ by midday on 6 August.
Daily Mirror
7 days ago
- Daily Mirror
Best seaside town to live once slammed as 'depressing' resort turns itself around
A charming seaside nestled between rolling countryside hills and sugar-like beaches has been named the best place to live in the UK. Situated on the Fal Estuary in Cornwall's idyllic south coast, and believed to be the inspiration behind the classic children's novel The Wind in the Willows, Falmouth offers the perfect balance of history and modern amenities. Originally developed around its deep natural harbour which once acted as a key port, the town has now developed into a bustling coastal gem, and attracts swathes of tourists every year. "Falmouth offers not only a rich cultural scene but also breathtaking natural surroundings," states Visit Cornwall, the area's official tourist board. "The area's mild climate supports beautiful subtropical gardens, perfect for exploring year-round. Renowned as a sailing town, Falmouth hosts a variety of regattas and festivals throughout the year." The town has also gained a reputation for being a 'foodies paradise', thanks to a slew of cosy pubs, award-winning restaurants and numerous food festivals. However, in 2024 Falmouth suffered a major blow after it was unexpectedly ranked the most 'depressing' place to live in Britain. Branded as 'bland and boring' in a survey conducted by iLiveHere, the region was slammed for having a 'soul-destroying mediocrity with a gaping cultural void'. However, locals were quick to debunk the poll's results, arguing it couldn't be further from the truth. "The coastal walks are epic," hailed one local. "It's fairly diverse class-wise and even in the summer when it's packed, it's still a pleasant place to be, unlike Looe and St Ives which while they are both beautiful places to visit, parking is a total nightmare." Another agreed, raving that the locals are friendly, the food is good, and that there are 'loads of decent restaurants'. Even the team over at iLiveHere was baffled by the poll - which allows users to leave their comments about their hometown online. "We have to admit, we know absolutely nothing about Falmouth," they said. "We Googled it and it looks picturesque – but we're sure it's a facade it trades on, and who are we to question the wisdom of the crowd?" Some blamed the town's suddenly bleak reputation on its high street, which like most parts of the UK has witnessed shops close following the Covid-19 pandemic. "It's going downhill, that's for certain," a couple of tourists told the Telegraph. But, the damming poll has now been put under even more speculation, after Falmouth was crowned the best seaside town to live in the UK in 2025 by The Times. "Falmouth has everything you need for a happy life by the sea," the publication hailed. "[It has] four great beaches, sparkling views at every turn and a town centre that's like the coolest bit of a cool city, along with a young, fun and creative population." Located just under 300 miles from the Big Smoke, it takes almost six hours to travel to Falmouth from London by car. Indirect train journeys departing from London Paddington, which usually involve a stopover at Truro, slash around an hour off the journey - but tickets can be pricey. For example, a single adult fare on Wednesday, July 23, is currently priced at £79.50. However, if you have a railcard, you may be able to find a better deal. Luckily, once you've arrived in Falmouth - you won't have to spend a fortune. The town is filled with affordable accommodation types, from no-frills hotels to cosy B&Bs. A weekend's stay (Friday, August 22 -24) at the Prince of Wales Pub, for example, will only set you back £158. This is based on two adults sharing a Double Room with a communal bathroom. If you're looking for something a bit more luxurious, check out Merchants Manor Spa. This five-star resort features sleek rooms with stunning sea views, an award-winning restaurant, a modern leisure club, an indoor heated swimming pool, a spa, and sub-tropical gardens. Staying in a Deluxe Queen Room on the exact same nights costs £541, and includes breakfast.
The Irish Sun
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Classic Books are booming but it's the famous authors' cache not the literature that are the money spinners
Classic literature is enjoying a sudden surge, but it's the value of the books rather than the words in them that is generating a sales boom. Pawnbrokers are reporting a massive climb in the number of books it is offered for sale or for their owners to take out temporary loans. Advertisement 3 James Constantinou, owner of posh Prestige pawn chain, claims that classic books are having a moment Credit: Lancton - Fabulous Harry Potter books are making magic returns with £10,000-plus for mint condition first editions but classics from Enid Blyton and Fyodor Dostoevsky are also big money-spinners, says James Constantinou, owner of the Prestige Pawn chain. 'We're seeing a major shift with a 300% increase in book submissions this year,' adds James, star of the hit Channel 4 TV show Posh Pawn. 'Books are now being treated like art, jewellery or watches – rare, cultural items that hold and grow in value and people are starting to realise how much hidden value they've got at home.' A flawless first edition of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, which was part of an original US print run, recently secured a £10,000 loan, while translation of works by Dostoevsky and Paul Dirac have been valued at around £4,000. Advertisement Read more 'These editions, printed in the UK with gold-inlaid spines, are significantly more valuable than their US counterparts. In one case, a customer pawned these classics to fund the purchase of an original Russian translation.' said James. 'Books are resilient, long-term investments - with loan valued climbing by 5-7% annually - and that goes for everything from classic literature to children's book,s with a first edition of The Wind in the Willows selling for £32,400, and rare Enid Blyton books fetching up to £1,000. 'Last year, we were getting five book submissions a week but that has tripled and there is a real feeling that people are becoming more aware of their value so it is worth checking out your bookshelves for any family heirloom first editions that could be worth a small fortune.' Rare Harry Potter books have good resale value but they are eclipsed by a first edition of Odyssey by James Joyce printed on handmade paper which was sold for £275,000 while first edition of F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby have been valued at £245,000. Advertisement Most read in Fabulous Exclusive Exclusive 3 The iconic first edition of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone which can fetch up to £20,000 Credit: SWNS 3 Enid Blyton books are also raking in large figures Credit: Alamy
Scottish Sun
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Classic Books are booming but it's the famous authors' cache not the literature that are the money spinners
Books full of Pawn Classic Books are booming but it's the famous authors' cache not the literature that are the money spinners Classic literature is enjoying a sudden surge, but it's the value of the books rather than the words in them that is generating a sales boom. Pawnbrokers are reporting a massive climb in the number of books it is offered for sale or for their owners to take out temporary loans. Advertisement 3 James Constantinou, owner of posh Prestige pawn chain, claims that classic books are having a moment Credit: Lancton - Fabulous Harry Potter books are making magic returns with £10,000-plus for mint condition first editions but classics from Enid Blyton and Fyodor Dostoevsky are also big money-spinners, says James Constantinou, owner of the Prestige Pawn chain. 'We're seeing a major shift with a 300% increase in book submissions this year,' adds James, star of the hit Channel 4 TV show Posh Pawn. 'Books are now being treated like art, jewellery or watches – rare, cultural items that hold and grow in value and people are starting to realise how much hidden value they've got at home.' A flawless first edition of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, which was part of an original US print run, recently secured a £10,000 loan, while translation of works by Dostoevsky and Paul Dirac have been valued at around £4,000. Advertisement 'These editions, printed in the UK with gold-inlaid spines, are significantly more valuable than their US counterparts. In one case, a customer pawned these classics to fund the purchase of an original Russian translation.' said James. 'Books are resilient, long-term investments - with loan valued climbing by 5-7% annually - and that goes for everything from classic literature to children's book,s with a first edition of The Wind in the Willows selling for £32,400, and rare Enid Blyton books fetching up to £1,000. 'Last year, we were getting five book submissions a week but that has tripled and there is a real feeling that people are becoming more aware of their value so it is worth checking out your bookshelves for any family heirloom first editions that could be worth a small fortune.' Rare Harry Potter books have good resale value but they are eclipsed by a first edition of Odyssey by James Joyce printed on handmade paper which was sold for £275,000 while first edition of F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby have been valued at £245,000. Advertisement 3 The iconic first edition of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone which can fetch up to £20,000 Credit: SWNS
Scotsman
30-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
New dining chapter begins at Edinburgh restaurant inspired by famous author
One of Edinburgh's most popular city centre restaurants has started a new dining chapter at its famous Castle Street venue. Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Badger & Co takes its name from one of the main characters in the classic children's book, The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame, who was born at 32 Castle Street in 1859. The Wind in the Willows tells the riverbank story of Mr Badger and his friends, Mole, Ratty and Mr Toad. Famous amongst generations around the world, the novel has been translated into over 30 languages, including Chinese, Japanese, French, Spanish, German and Portuguese, giving it a wide international appeal. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Inspired by Mr Badger and The Wind in the Willows story, Badger & Co has turned a new page and is now taking its culinary adventures beyond the 'Wild Wood' with a creative dining experience that celebrates the best local and seasonal produce, including ingredients foraged from local hedgerows. Scott Campbell is the new head chef at Badger & Co With support from a kitchen team of eight, new head chef Scott Campbell has created a bold, seasonal menu, including woven whisky-glazed Scottish smoked salmon, Scotsman scallops from the west coast, pork tomahawk and butter-poached cod. People can also take a trip down memory lane with Badger & Co's Cranachan Teacake. Mixologist Jay Braby is also shaking up a new creative cocktail menu inspired by The Wind in the Willows theme, including 'Hot Toad Time Machine' made with Absolut Raspberri, Chambord, pineapple, raspberry and whey; as well as 'Bonnie Badger' made with Ciroc, coconut rum, rhubarb, lime, cranberry, coconut and Prosecco foam. Open seven days a week, the classic Georgian townhouse venue now provides indoor and outdoor seating for around 45 diners, as well as space for four-legged friends in the lounge. Private dining experiences for up to 12 guests and special events are also available. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Scott Campbell, head chef at Badger & Co, said: 'We're really excited to be starting a new dining chapter on Castle Street with our new menu. Diners can expect the best local, seasonal and foraged produce. 'Rooted in Scotland's regional larder, this new chapter is told through plates that celebrate both tradition and imagination, from field, shore and glen. 'There's a rhythm to this menu - like old friends around the fire, sharing something special. Dishes grounded in time-honoured techniques, modernised with flair.' Scott added:'As the birthplace of The Wind in the Willows author, we're really proud to be the custodians of this beautiful city centre venue. Badger & Co has continued to pay homage to one of the book's leading characters since opening the doors to local diners and visitors in 2016.' Badger & Co supports 20 local hospitality jobs. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Badger & Co is located at 32 Castle Street, Edinburgh, EH2 3HT. For more information on Badger & Co and to make a booking, go to Follow on Instagram and Facebook Badger & Co is part of the Edinburgh-based Signature Group, a leading Scottish hospitality company made up of over 20 bars, restaurants, hotels and a brewery, including Edinburgh's McLarens on the Corner, Copper Blossom, The Rutland, The Huxley and Kyloe. For more information on Signature Group and its venues, go to
