The last century has seen some incredible inventions that have transformed our lives and continued the forward momentum of mankind. From penicillin to television, nuclear power to personal computer, life on earth has certainly taken a giant leap forward in recent times. And yet, for all the joy, benefits and freedoms these breakthroughs have brought, […]

As you prepared for New Year’s Eve last week you may have read the inspiring story of Gary McKee, a father-of-three from Cumbria, who set himself the challenge of running a marathon every day of last year. As he completed the final 26 miler on December 31st, Gary had not only completed his new year […]

You will all have heard of the saying food fit for a king. Well, one hundred years ago this month a discovery was made that attracted the fascination of the world and continues to do so today. For even a century on, we continue to learn new things about the history of mankind thanks to […]

Everyone loves food – after all we couldn’t live without it. But some foods have had such an impact on people or places they’ve been given the ultimate accolade – a museum all about them. So, whilst the British Museum in London takes you on a journey through the history of mankind and the Louvre […]

To escape the heat from the street I popped into a coffee shop the other day and treated myself to a frappucchino with a slice of banoffee pie. Whilst my eyes were checking my emails, my ears were alerted to the sound of a young child outside, excited at being allowed to walk the family’s […]

Taste buds are complicated things and there seems no rhyme or reason as to why certain people just can’t abide certain foods. The new science of Gastrophysics has tried to get to the root of the problem and concluded it’s down to a variety of factors – how the food looks, smells and its texture […]

When you think of France what goes through your mind? Great art? Great scenery? Or the hilarious mis-speaks of Del Boy Trotter in Only Fools and Horses? With France celebrating its national day on July 14 it’s perhaps worth reflecting on how its influence has spread across the world in so many ways. The people […]

Whether it’s food or drink, few countries have had such an enormous impact on world cuisine as France. Champagne to start of course, followed by Chateaubriand washed down with a ruby red Bordeaux or a coq au vin accompanied by Sauvignon Blanc, then there’s the cheese to follow and a glass of cognac. Yet French […]

There’s no doubt that great food can inspire – whether that’s in art, literature or song. But in some cases the impact can be so profound it’s the last thing we think of during our time on Earth. Legendary American frontiersman Kit Carson, whose anniversary falls next week, inspires admiration and revulsion in equal measure. […]