Can you make a claim for mis-sold payment protection insurance?

Have you been mis-sold a payment protection claim? Now there is an easy way to start claiming compensation for them; Click here to find more information on how to go about it.

PPI, which stands for ‘Payment Protection Insurance’, is basically designed to cover your loan, hire purchase agreement or credit card repayments for a year in case you are unable to repay your loans on time because of accident, sickness or unemployment. But consumers have often complained that they have been forced to buy a policy from the same provider as the loan in order to qualify for the insurance product, which is not true.

Mis-selling has been rampant and widespread primarily because the sales people disguised as insurance advisers were offered huge incentives and commissions to drive sales and sell PPI whenever possible. This led them to misguide their clients and customers, who erroneously believed their advisers. Sales people did not make clear that the policy was entirely optional, and even insisted that the policy was required to qualify for the product or help with the application. They sometimes deliberately implied that the product would become more expensive if the customers did not opt for the PPI.

These policies are usually very expensive as compared to the level of cover they provide and many policies have important exemptions, making it difficult for policyholders to make a legitimate claim. PPI mis-selling has been around for a long time, and only very recently have new regulations enabled customers to claim compensation for their mis-sold PPI. Even though the financial regulator started fining PPI companies in 2006, no drastic change was noticed until 2011. Though there is no set deadline for a person for reclamation, but it is usually better if it is done within six years of the account being closed.

Sometimes people are mis-sold PPI without even knowing it. In this case, they may first need to find whether they have been mis-sold a policy by either checking their credit card statements or by directly contacting the lender. And if the financial institution, or the Financial Ombudsman Service, agrees that you were mis-sold the insurance, you can claim and get back all the premiums you have paid, along with the interest. Even if you were not mis-sold the policy initially, but not treated in a fair manner when you wanted to cancel your premium or cover, you can still challenge them.

However, if you were unemployed at the time you took the insurance, it might be impossible for you to make a legitimate insurance claim. Also, if you had a medical problem at the time you took the insurance, it might be very difficult to file a claim; you would need to prove that you were not warned before taking the insurance policy. The most valid cases of mis-selling are those where the customers who were sold the insurance had no chance of claiming it.

The amount of time taken to realise the compensation depends upon the complexity of the claim and the lender’s attitude towards the claim. But in most cases, it gets resolved quickly, and you may receive your claim within a couple of weeks! There are many firms that can help you to realise your claim in an efficient and timely manner. An increase in successful PPI claims has even led the leading banks in the UK to increase their provisions for PPI.

This post has been written in association with ABC Incorporation, one of the leading Claims Management companies in the UK. Their vast experience in this domain ensures that the claim process becomes easy and the clients receive the maximum compensation possible. They work on the principle of “no win, no fee” and even offer a free no obligation consultation.

Successful marketing design agencies reveal 5 stages to creating an effective e-commerce website

Established design and marketing consultancies regularly create a wide range of websites, including microsites, corporate and e-commerce sites. Specialist experienced website designers create positive and engaging brands through effective websites which present stunning literature and deliver creative media experiences.

Some of the UKs leading marketing and website design agencies have revealed some of their useful techniques when building their clients websites.

 1. Create a Sitemap A sitemap is simply a flow diagram which shows the key pages and navigational structure of an entire website. This will provide you with a structural map to guide you through the creation of your website.

2.  Wireframing Once a sitemap has been created, the next task should be to wireframe your site. A website wireframe is a line drawing which shows the placement of elements on a web page. During this stage, you should consider the amount of content and images as well as which pages will link together.

3. Copywriting When writing content for a website, consider how you can capture the attention of your target audience. Consider whether content is informative or interactive. Interactive content will be read and then acted upon, which might involve going to the contact us page. Informative content simply provides useful background information about a company, product or service. Website literature should always be clear and concise, as the majority of internet users will scan websites for the information they are looking for.

4. Design - Before designing your website, look at what your competitors are doing and choose unique styles and colours to ensure you stand out from the crowd. When selecting your background colour, make sure your visitors can easily read the content and view your links, i.e. no dark blue text on a black background or yellow text on a white background.

5. Build - By the time you get to the build stage, you should know exactly what content and images are to be included on each page, ensuring the build of the website is done as efficiently as possible. During this stage, remember to undertake cross browser testing to ensure that your website views correctly on browsers such as Internet Explorer, Safari, Chrome, Firefox etc.

What more tips and advice on how to create an effective website? Contact a well established marketing design agency today. They will help you create an innovative and unique website, engaging your target audience and building a successful brand.

Liven Creative are a Surrey based design and marketing consultancy. If you are looking to create a new website or revamp an existing site visits their website today.
Branded design agency

Media solutions for broadcasting, including 3D broadcast monitoring & HD and SD time delay severs

For high quality broadcasting you need to ensure you have the latest video and audio equipment from a well established, reliable supplier.

Successful suppliers of specialist broadcast media equipment stock the latest digital technology from top manufactures such as Marshal Electronics, Doremi Labs, 360 Systems and Radiant Grid.

The latest media solutions on the market include:

3D Converters & 3D Broadcast Monitors

For a complete 3D media solution and to support the growth and expansion of 3D technology, you need to ensure you have a good quality set of 3D broadcast monitors and 3D convertors. Doremi test pattern generators feature pre-loaded internal 3D test patterns as well as user generated patterns which can be loaded via an SD card. This product will accommodate all 3D formats and comes complete with an infra ref remote control and a USB connection for remote operation.

For a high quality 3D monitor, the 3D-241-HDSDI from Marshall Electronics has a total of four HDSDI inputs which enables the monitor to provide two 3D HDSDI signals. With circular polarized glasses users are able to view multiple 3D monitors in production and multimedia environments.

Digital Cinema Equipment

Doremi are leading developers and manufacturers of videodisk recorders and video servers for all broadcast and digital cinema markets. High quality cinema software, including mastering stations and cinema servers, will enable you to broadcast your media effectively.

The DCP-2000 supports JPEG2000 and MPEG2 files, this dual projector features 3D and 4K resolution playback, CineLister software for providing effortless scheduling and playlist administration.

The Cineasset from Doremi is a great piece of software for converting video files into unencrypted DCI MXF files that can be played on digital cinema servers. The cinema mastering solution allows broadcasters to transfer and convert 2D and 3D clips with easy to use databases. The audio dubbing feature enables users to also add audio to their image sequences.

HD and SD Time Delay Severs

360 Systems, the UKs leading developer of HD and SD time delay servers have developed a range of servers that provide adjustable time delays for television broadcast. With a HD or SD time delay server you can provide top quality images using technology you can rely on.

Well established suppliers of broadcast media equipment stock HD and SD servers that are easy to use and provide delays of just a few seconds, right up to 8 hours with a HD server and 24 hours with an SD server.
For high quality media solutions, choose a supplier you can rely on.

Cache Media have many years experience in supplying audio and video products to worldwide leading broadcasters. Visit their website today to view their extensive range of broadcast equipment.
3D broadcast monitoring

Give unique staff incentives with corporate cooking classes in London

Staff incentives are proven to enhance the quality of working life for staff, either by rewarding their efforts or by adding value to a contract of employment. As an employer, you may understand that you can use corporate incentives to retain existing staff, persuade staff to join your business, boost productivity by focusing employees on achieving targets, improve teamwork and boost morale, loyalty and motivation.

The problem for many employers is not whether or not to offer staff incentives, but how to find original corporate gifts which will actually appeal to a diverse collection of staff. An increasing number of businesses are moving away from dull corporate gifts and offering unique experiences which staff actually want to work for; experiences which can be personalised by each employee for a useful, enjoyable and original gift. If you want your corporate gift to show you and your business as fun, original and on-trend, look no further than s gift card for a cooking class.

Whether you are looking to plan a lunchtime or evening event to reward a group of staff, or whether you want to give individual gifts, cooking classes offer a unique reward which will appeal to every single employee. Corporate cooking classes provide a group activity which is not only going to reward staff, but benefit your place of work by boosting communication and teamwork skills in a way like no other corporate events in London. While cooking class gift cards give employees the flexibility to choose their own cooking class menu on a date and time that suits them.

Corporate cooking classes taught by expert chefs are exciting and informative, offering you an improved team for the workplace, and new recipes and cookery skills for employees to take home. Choose a top cooking school with state-of-the-art kitchens and stylish dining areas to really impress, and ensure your corporate cooking classes are arranged by a venue which is experienced at dealing with corporate groups and planning events. Your London cooking school may even host challenges and competitions to motivate each group member to work as a team, or enable you to create inter-departmental cooking competitions.

If you are looking for individual gifts for staff, gift vouchers for cooking classes can be purchased from top London cooking schools. Topped up with any financial value you like, your gift voucher will allow the recipient to choose a class or classes which appeal to them, whether they want to share the voucher and enjoy a relaxed afternoon cooking with a family member, a quick 30 minute class to add interest to their lunchtime or attend a masterclass to perfect their existing culinary skills. With a wide range of themes and globally influenced menus available, there really is something for everyone. Gift vouchers for cooking classes allow you to reward staff with a fun and exciting experience which will offer an incentive to work hard time and time again.

Latelier des Chefs offer 250 fun and relaxed cooking classes every month with a range of themes and lengths so there is something for everyone. Whether your staff are expert cooks or complete novices , they will all enjoy this original experience. Cooking classes from Latelier provide an effective staff incentive which will appeal to every member of staff.
Corporate cooking classes

Ensure your event has good quality temporary wireless internet & contact a WiFi service provider

These days people expect to have wireless internet access just about anywhere. With smart phones, tablets and MP3 players all having internet connection features, people can browse, check their email and use social media websites without having to load up a computer.

If you are organising an event, its important to ensure you provide a reliable, fast wireless broadband connection for your audience. Whether youre arranging an indoor or outdoor event for a national or local audience, providing a good quality internet connection will keep potential clients happy.

Technology & Temporary Internet

A wireless broadband connection could also improve the technology at your event. Whether youre organising a festival or a sporting occasion, site wide wireless networks will enable you to install ticket device technology to help your event run smoothly.

A hardwired or WiFi network will help journalists report on your event efficiently, enabling your company to gain a positive review in the media. Reliable broadband will improve the running of temporary production offices, whether they are Porta cabins or offices at a conference or business event.
Many IT event specialists can also supply you with IT equipment, including laptops, PCs, Macs, printers, telephones and servers.

Event Service Providers

National and local WiFi service providers can set up reliable temporary internet connections for your event. A well established WiFi company will be able to provide you with fast broadband for indoor and outdoor events in the UK and abroad.
Organising an event is no easy task, particularly when you have the added pressure of worrying about your internet connection. Expert IT technicians provide event services that you can depend on. Whether your event is in the middle of a field or in a conference hall, WiFi event service providers can set up a wired or wireless connection, whatever your location.
A poorly set up WiFi network will frustrate potential customers and can spoil your event. Leave it to the experts and allow qualified engineers provide you with a connection you can rely on.

Emergency Internet

Many temporary internet providers also offer emergency internet services, an ideal solution if you are moving offices, hosting a conference or just want a fast running internet connection for visiting clients. A successful temporary broadband company will be able to set up a 7mbps connection in as little as 2 hours or 20mbps in 2 days.
Contact a specialist IT event company for temporary internet you can depend on.

Noba is a UK based specialist IT company providing high quality temporary internet connections for worldwide events and exhibitions. Visit their website and contact them today to ensure your event is up to speed.
Event service provider

Choose Natural Sun Cream For Healthy and Safe Skin

Its easy to forget that every single product we put on our skin for beauty and skin care purposes contains a large number of chemicals. Despite many high street natural beauty products giving the impression that they promote healthy skin, a quick look at the ingredients reveals a long list of unfamiliar chemicals, many of which are actually detrimental to the condition of skin and can cause allergic reactions.

Never is the skin more vulnerable to serious damage than when exposed to sunlight. Yet harmful chemical ingredients in sun creams are causing allergic reactions and having potentially harmful side effects. You may have heard the phrase PABA sunscreens referring to sun cream containing p-Aminobenzoic acid. These were banned from sale in the UK in 2009 (as well as many other countries) due to concerns over their ability to cause DNA defects. Unfortunately, sun cream is still not completely safe.

Parabens are still commonly used in the cosmetic industry and in sun creams, despite being the source of many allergic reactions and being found in breast cancer tumours; a worrying link. Commonly used as preservatives, parabens such as methylparaben are found to actually react with the suns UVB rays, causing increased skin aging and DNA damage. Another worrying ingredient found in sun cream for children and adults is phthalates, which are gradually being phased out of many products in Europe due to health concerns. Young infants are extremely vulnerable to the adverse effects of phthalates, yet they continue to be an ingredient in many brands of sun cream for children.

The best way to protect adult and childrens skin from UVA and UVB rays is to buy a natural sun cream which is also organic. Many natural ingredients are effective at protecting the skin, and by opting for the most natural beauty products possible you are actively avoiding the harmful chemicals which feature so prominently in everyday life. Brands dedicated to organic skincare are making it easier than ever to choose effective and natural beauty products which are safe for anyone, even young children, or those with allergy-prone or sensitive skin.

Sun cream for children and adults should support the skins immune system and protect against cell damage, with vitamins A, C and E, found naturally in green tea, olive, avocado and rosemary, helping keep skin healthy. Look for an organic skincare range featuring natural sun cream without pore-clogging ingredients (a cause of prickly heat), PABA, parabens, phalates or artificial fragrances, which can cause allergic reaction.

Natural minerals such as titanium dioxide are an effective UVA and UVB screen, as are Cinnamic acid and Edelweiss extract. Just because you are choosing a natural sun cream it should still offer water-resistant properties for optimum durability, and this is often done through ingredients such as fruit waxes.
By choosing a natural sun cream you can protect your own, and your childs, skin, not only from the sun, but from dangerous chemicals too. Purchase your sun cream from an organic skincare retailer for healthy and safe skin.

Green People offer some of the healthiest natural and organic skincare products available, with adult sun cream and childrens sun cream amongst their wide range of beauty products and cosmetics. Browse their sun cream collection for healthy products which contain natural ingredients and no harmful chemicals.
Natural beauty products

Types of Curtain Rails and Curtain Poles

Often too little thought is put into curtain tracks or poles. We spend hours finding the perfect pair of curtains, but hang them on the existing pole (which may not be suitable) or purchase a new curtain track or pole based purely on it being the right length. In fact, there are many different types of curtain tracks and poles, ranging from these basic poles, to corded curtain tracks and corded curtain poles, and even electronic opening and closing systems for ease of use and security. Each type of curtain track or pole affects the way which your curtains hang; so it is important to choose your pole just as carefully as you would the curtains.

Uncorded and Corded Curtain Poles

Curtain poles were traditionally wooden or metal poles with rings to hang the curtains from, fixed to the wall with a horizontal or vertical bracket. Nowadays they are much more effective and interesting; they can be accessorised with finials, misdials and holdbacks in a range of designs, and alternative C shape rings to allow curtains to move past the bracket with an ease (a function impossible with O rings).

Uncorded and Corded Curtain Tracks

Curtain tracks (sometimes called curtain rails) differ from traditional curtain poles as they feature a track system with gliders. These work to reduce the amount of friction when opening or closing the curtains, allowing them to be opened and closed more easily and adding the option of choosing corded curtain rails. Both uncorded and corded curtain rails are available in a range of colours and can be made-to-measure to fit bay windows.
Corded curtain tracks (or corded curtain rails) are opened and closed with a string pulley at the side of the track. This makes corded curtain tracks an easy way to protect fragile or lightly coloured curtains from contact, and makes opening and closing curtains easier, ideal for heavy or tall curtains or frail or disabled residents.
If you choose to purchase corded curtain tracks to benefit from their neat, minimalist look and their ease of use, shop for brands such as Silent Gliss. The Silent Gliss 3000 and Silent Gliss 3900, in particular, are popular corded curtain rails due to their high quality design. They allow for extremely smooth running of curtains and the cords do not fall out. The Silent Gliss 3900 is suitable for medium to heavy weight curtains, and the Silent Gliss 3000 is suitable for lined curtains or short interlined curtains.
Another alternative is electronically-operated uncorded or corded curtain rails. Electronically-operated tracks add extra ease of use and security due to their light or time sensors.

Tracks Direct are curtain rail, pole and track specialists who offer a range of customisable options, including bending their rails to fit curved or bay windows. Browse their range of high quality products, with brands such as Silent Gliss, and order online or request a free quotation.
Poles with gliders

Build a conservatory to find a wonderful way to relax

Building your own conservatory is an excellent way to expand your living space and be a step closer to nature. If you are looking for the ultimate way to find peace and relaxation in your house, these conservatories, popularly also known as sunrooms and orangeries, are your best bet. A visually stimulating living environment can do wonders to your mental as well as physical health. Not only are these spaces extremely functional, but they are also extremely cost efficient.

To build a conservatory, you need to first decide whether you want to build it yourself or get professionals to do it for you. Often, you can find the option of choosing a conservatory design and having it delivered to you. After that, it is up to you to install it. This is generally preferred primarily because you can get a professional look without having to worry about the steep price tag associated with it. You can also avail of an option wherein you do not have to order the entire structure. If you already have a certain part built or installed, you can just order for the complementary parts. This can save you unnecessary expenditures.

Though DIY conservatories seem fairly easy and tempting, a lot of research and work goes into it. Foundations, dwarf walls, and bases need to be constructed, which determine the strength and durability of your sunroom or conservatory. Though a self build conservatory is very cost effective, you have to ensure that you get the proper heating/cooling, ventilation, and flooring installed. The versatility and the convenience that readymade conservatories and sunrooms offer are unmatchable. They help you to realise the best that you can afford given the limitations of space and budget.

Popular Victorian, Georgian, and Edwardian designs are available in a variety of sizes that can easily be adapted to any space. The wide selection enables you to choose the look and design of the conservatory that best reflect your personal taste and style. The satisfaction and experience of seeing the fruit of your labour come alive is totally worth it. Also, the importance of flooring, lighting, and blinds cannot be stressed enough; all of them come together to make your living space a masterpiece! You can easily get a conservatory quote to ease into the process and then take it up from there. If you are imaginative and creative, the sky is the limit!

This article is written in association with Conservatory Quote Online. They allow you to get a great deal on the price of your conservatory or sunroom and offer a wide variety of styles, shapes, and features. Take a look at their website for information, tips, and advice on all aspects of conservatories.
DIY conservatories

Why should I make a payment protection claim?

Up until 2011, many lenders, including high street banks and credit companies, mis-sold a staggering £5 billion a year worth of payment protection insurance. The insurance, intended to protect payments in the event of accident or unemployment, was mis-sold when borrowers didnt want or need it, or when they were given the impression that it was not compulsory. When the mis-selling of PPI was eventually ruled as illegal, lenders were told to repay those who had taken out the policies.

Financial Reimbursement

There are many advantages of making a payment protection claim, the main obviously being the financial reimbursement. Many people who make successful PPI claims are refunded thousands of pounds each, with some being given cheques for as much as £90,000. The amount which each person is refunded depends upon the size of the loan which the PPI protected, the time period which the loan was taken out for and a number of other factors. The best way to find out how much your claim is likely to be worth is through receiving an assessment from a PPI claims management company, with most people finding that they are entitled to an unexpectedly substantial figure.

Entitlement

With lenders unfairly misleading customers for decades this is your chance to take back what was taken from you. Banks have been ordered to repay millions of pounds to their customers, most of which remains as yet unpaid. You have the right to take back what you are entitled to and show your lender that you are not going to let them keep your money. Banks and other PPI sellers are not allowed to treat you any differently for making a payment protection claim, so nothing should hold you back from taking back the money you are entitled to.

Hassle-free

Claims management companies understand that the majority of those entitled to make PPI claims are unsure of their knowledge or ability to contact their lenders directly. The PPI refund process is complicated and assessing whether or not you are entitled to make a claim is even more difficult.
By hiring a PPI claims management company you can simply sit back and wait for your cheque to arrive. They often offer a free assessment service which allows you to find out whether or not you have been mis-sold PPI from the comfort of your own home; choose a company which offers a simple postal or visiting service. If you are busy or do not have an in-depth knowledge of the rules around PPI it makes sense to speak to experts who will handle your claim quickly, efficiently and on a no-win, no-fee basis, for virtually no effort on your part.

Contact reliable claims management company ABC Incorporation for a free assessment of your PPI claim. They work on a no win, no fee basis and have a high success rate, earning mis-sold PPI victims millions of pounds.
PPI

Go online to create your own Italian adventure

Discovering the disparate beauty and romance of Italy has never been easier thanks to multi-centre holidays. Encompassing a tailored itinerary that allows tourists to visit numerous Italian cities, you can take in a variety of breathtaking sights.

Online Italian holiday experts have devised the complete package for holidaymakers wishing to sample the delights of Italian history, architecture, scenery, sports and culture.

Planning your own specially crafted visit is a fun and easy experience guaranteed to suit every taste and budget. With so many different locations and activities to whet the appetite, enjoying all that Italy has to offer is just a click of a mouse away.

Explore the A-Z of Italy

Italy multi-centre holidays are perfect for exploring the length and breadth of a truly fascinating country.

Bespoke Italian holiday companies are offering personalised trips created by indigenous experts. Their esoteric knowledge and understanding of Italy and Italian culture can help you get the most out of your journey to take in some of the worlds most iconic locations
Indeed, if you choose to travel with the help of a bespoke Italian tourist operator, youll experience an adventure that caters towards all of your requirements.

In some instances, full guided tours are available to assist in your learning about the majesty and significance of Italys most famous cities and landmarks.

Whether you opt for a religious trip, educational visit, stag do or a romantic getaway, youre sure to find a tailored holiday to inspire you.

Mix and match

The beauty of an Italy multi-centre holiday is the ability to mix and match your itinerary. For instance, if you fancy two nights in Venice and maybe three in Verona, the best companies will offer you a personal quote that reflects your desires.

In fact, quality online Italian tour operators dont want you to simply choose one of their packages. Theyd much rather customers decide for themselves where they want to go depending on individual tastes and budgets. In addition, once youve decided upon your customised trip, theyll still take care of your travel arrangements and activities for you!

One day you could be visiting the Vatican, whereas later in the week you might find yourself lounging on a beautiful beach in Sardinia. In theory, anything is possible with Italy multi-centre holidays that give you the freedom to choose how you want to spend your leisure time.

Perform your own Italian Job today and search for financially guaranteed and reputable online Italian holiday experts.

Theyll spend the necessary time ensuring all of your arrangements are taken care of while also affording you the freedom and choice you want as you sample all that Italy has to offer.

Bellarome are an online Italy multi-centre holiday provider utilising the local knowledge and expertise of indigenous experts. Their philosophy puts the customer first and affords the freedom for holidaymakers to create their own personalised itinerary to discover all that Italy has to offer.
Italy multi-centre holidays

Circuit karting, fun for all the family this spring

Want to treat your family to a fun and exciting day out this spring? Circuit karting is a great activity which can be enjoyed by both children and adults.

Many karting tracks offer a range of experiences lasting from 30 minutes 4 hours, enabling you to dedicate a whole day to karting or combine an experience with a lunch or shopping trip.

Track drive go karting experiences last between 1 and 2 hours and are ideal for those who are new to karting and want to have some fun or improve their driving skills. Once the karting session is complete, each driver is given a personalised print out with their average lap time, speed, fastest lap and track record.

Track race drive experiences are perfect for those with a competitive streak. This experience generally features up to 10 drivers and should be pre-booked to avoid disappointment. Once you have completed your 10 lap qualifying session, you and your fellow drivers will line up on the grid to compete in a thrilling 40 lap race. After the race is complete, the top three drivers will be invited onto the podium to be awarded trophies.

Drivers must be 14 years or above to compete in both track drive and track race experiences.

Formula 1

For a real Formula 1 experience, Grand Prix raceway karting is a must. This is a great experience for large groups, as the organiser is able to drive free when parties have 13 or more members. A practice session will enable you to get used to the speedy 270cc engine pro karts, before taking part in 5 qualifying laps and the 10 lap grand final. Just like the real Formula 1, the top three drivers will then be awarded trophies on the podium.

Stag & Hens

Karting is also a great experience for kick starting a stag or hen party, giving your party members a great burst of adrenaline before a night out on the town. Many karting tracks offer laser tag activities and gaming machines for endless fun all day long.
Junior Parties

Karting is a brilliant activity to keep little drivers entertained for hours on end. Several karting tracks offer birthday party packages, which can include childrens karting and laser tag experiences, party invitations, use of a private function room, buffet, drinks and goodie bags.

Whether youre after a thrilling experience for a special occasion or you just want to have some fun, karting is one of the UKs most exciting activities for all ages.

Cannon Raceway is the UKs top indoor karting track and is conveniently located next door to Coseley train station, just 5 minutes from the M6 junction 10. Visit their website to find our more and book your party.
Circuit karting

Hardwood Conservatory - The natural choice

All conservatories will add value and extra living space to your house, but a timber conservatory is the only one which will provide more than that; character, durability and timeless appeal.

A hardwood conservatory is an ideal way of adding unique additional living space to your home.
Hardwood presents a wide choice of colour and finish and is one of the most versatile construction materials in the world, offering a great choice of design elements. This is why timber conservatories adapt best to the style of your house, regardless of the building age and architecture, adding that natural finish that makes the transition to your garden gracefully smooth.

A well designed combination between wood and glass not only provides a beautiful passage to the garden, but can also allow you and your family to be comfortably warm in winter and cool in summer with minimal energy usage. Hardwood has important thermal properties, retaining heat from the day and releasing it at night. Moreover, double glazed wooden conservatories can ensure an extremely high thermal efficiency, which means you can make significant energy savings.

Most people imagine the challenging issue with timber is that it is sensitive to decay. It's true: timber will change over the time, so yes, it is important to choose the right wood when constructing a conservatory. People must be aware that durability varies by hardwood type. When selecting a timber for your hardwood conservatory you can choose a natural durable timber with a life expectancy that can exceed 50 years, or employ a less durable one that can be easily treated. Timber treated with the appropriate preservative and properly maintained can last for a hundred years or more.

On the other hand, timber's theoretical sensitivity to water can also be countered by careful design and good conservatory building practice. Most of the longevity concerns can be eliminated by simply making sure no water can collect for a long period of time and by adding water resistant elements in the most sensitive parts.

From an environmental point of view, wood is ideal because is recyclable and requires minimal energy to produce. However, buying the wrong type of wood for your conservatory can contribute to ecological disaster. This is especially true when your chosen wood comes from tropical deforestation, which presents a massive threat to around half of the world's species that rely on forests. The most reliable way to select sustainable timber is to look out for timber certification schemes, which can prevent environmental harm and contribute to a healthy future.

Investing in a hardwood conservatory is about more than just raising the market value of your property; it is about creating the most versatile and cosy space in your house and yet bringing you so close to nature. Its also about sharing wonderful moments with the loved ones while thinking that adding that hardwood conservatory to your home was one of the smartest things you have done for yourself and your family.

Conservatory Quote Online provide competitive quotes for all kinds of conservatories and on line service to help you choose the right type of conservatory for your home.
Buy a hardwood conservatory

Why corporate cooking classes provide effective team building in London

Why choose corporate cooking classes for team building in London?

When planning corporate events in London it is important to find an activity which staff will really enjoy. Whether you are looking for an event which suits 12 or 120 staff, team building must be enjoyable to be effective, because it is often only relaxed staff who will communicate and participate freely. Corporate cooking classes offer just that.

Enjoyable

Corporate cooking classes are fun, exciting and make a dynamic change from the regular corporate events in London. Your business will not only benefit from undergoing an effective team building activity, but your staff will thank you for doing so in such an enjoyable way, and in a task which gives them new knowledge to take home afterwards too.

Effective

You understand that team building is important; team dynamics create the foundation for success after all. Cooking classes are a unique and original group activity which encourages communication, interaction and teamwork. Few environments are better than the kitchen for highlighting the importance of working as a group, and it is in each member of the groups interests to work well as a team... they will be eating the meal after all!

You can host your corporate cooking event in London for any size of group you require, which may then be subdivided into smaller cooking groups to encourage teamwork on a closer level. Each job in preparation of a dish may be carried out by one or two members of each group, allowing for leadership development within the group.

Universal appeal

Corporate cooking classes offer something for everyone. Whether your staff consider themselves novices in the kitchen or fancy themselves as culinary experts, a cooking class which is led by an expert chef will appeal to everyone.

With a range of recipes to suit everyone and the ability to create a tailored menu or branded cocktails, as well as your choice of date, time and class length, cooking is one of the most versatile corporate events in London. Simply discuss your needs with the operations team at your cooking school and allow them to create an event which is really tailored to your company and guests.

For the few who really do not enjoy cooking, an advantage is that culinary cooking classes offer two team building exercises in one; the actual cooking and the dining with colleagues afterwards. A cook and dine experience allows your staff to enjoy their meal after their team building exercise is completed, nurturing their relationships further in more relaxed settings.

What should I look for?

Clearly you need to choose a venue which is well-rehearsed in hosting such corporate events in London. Look for an experienced cooking school with an impressive state-of-the-art building which is well-equipped to host your event and based in an attractive location. Choose corporate cooking classes in London which are led by chefs who have held senior positions in successful Michelin Star rated kitchens - they are already used to creating effective working teams.

You may also want to look for a corporate cooking classes provider which offers competition tasks. There is nothing like a friendly competition for bringing groups together and promoting team interaction. Corporate events in London should offer an element of competition, and this is done in corporate cooking classes through intra departmental challenges or a chefs cooking challenge.

Latelier des Chefs is a London cooking school situated in the heart of the West End, with a new Fosters Lane kitchen set to open in the City in May. As experienced corporate events hosts, their teams of chefs and event planners are experts at providing fun and effective team building cooking classes, as well as hosting PR and press events and corporate hospitality.
Corporate cooking classes

Give your bedroom a spring makeover with Sanderson bedding and curtains

Sanderson, the UKs oldest bedding creators, have designed a wide range of bedding sets, perfect for the spring/summer season.
Sanderson are well known for their elegant, traditional English inspired designs which are perfect for creating a beautiful, sophisticated look.

Each Sanderson bed and curtain set is woven from easy care cotton and features high thread counts to ensure top quality comfort and durability.

Sanderson Adele Indigo Blue Set

The Sanderson Adele bedding and curtain set in Indigo blue, is an elegant floral design which portrays loose bouquets of peonies printed with shades of light and dark blue on a pale ivory background. This gorgeous set is perfect for creating a bright and airy look and includes reversible striped pillowcases. To follow this beautiful blue theme throughout your bedroom, you can also purchase matching lined curtains, ivory silk cushions and luxurious quilted throws, perfect for keeping you warm and cosy on cooler evenings.

Sanderson Blossom Tree Aqua Set

For a unique look in your bedroom, why not opt for the Sanderson Blossom Tree bedding set? This beautiful bedding set has been designed with blue and mint green tones perfect for creating a stylish look in your bedroom. Accessorise this unique bed linen set with funky striped green cushions or treat yourself to a matching luxury silk throw.

Sanderson Dandelion Clocks Set

If contemporary designs are more you style, the new Sanderson Dandelion Clocks set is perfect for giving your bedroom a modern stylish look. This funky bedding set in aqua and damson is a re-creation of the popular 1950s Sanderson wallpaper and features stylish dandelion heads printed on the silky 200 thread cotton percale. Matching reversible oxford pillowcases have been bordered with flat ivory and blue piping adding neutral tones to give your bedroom a calming look helping you to relax. Decorative cushions and throws feature beautiful floral embroidery, perfect for adding a feminine touch.
Why not let this funky style flow throughout your home and purchase some Sanderson Dandelion Clocks bath towels with luxurious 100% sheer cotton to keep skin soft.

Sanderson Emeline Set

The Sanderson Emeline set is a must have design for adding a feminine touch to your bedroom. Beautiful detailed embroidery of camellia blossom has been designed in a neat, spacious arrangement and the baby pink border completes the elegant look. Accessorise this set with matching pink decorative cushions and place a fresh vase of flowers on your bedside table to create a beautiful, relaxing look.

Give your bedroom the ultimate makeover and treat yourself to Sanderson bedding and curtain sets.

Browns of Weston are suppliers of high quality bedding, curtains and bath linen. They offer a wide range of traditional and contemporary designs to suit all home decors. Visit their website today and give your home a much needed makeover.
Sanderson bedding

Boutique maternity and nursing clothing for the beautiful mummy

Online boutique retailers are using their purchasing savvy to source functional yet fashionable maternity and nursing clothing.Pregnant women and mums-to-be no longer have to feel like they want to hide away when expecting to give birth or when they go out in public with their newborn child.

With clothes suitable for any occasion, being pregnant doesnt have to leave you feeling frumpy and like you have to sit indoors for nine months.Similarly, quality nursing clothes can make you look and feel beautiful when youre enjoying the great outdoors following childbirth. Specially designed breastfeeding dresses for weddings and other events mean you can still step out in style and with confidence.

Nursing dresses and breastfeeding clothes that work for you

Instead of buying ill-fitting one-size fits all maternity wear, nursing dresses and breastfeeding clothes, find garments that work for your changing body shape.Bespoke retailers specialising in maternity and nursing fashion can supply feature-heavy clothing and whole outfits that youll look forward to wearing.Whats more, if youre a new mum, youll find designs that incorporate neckline access for nursing. All you have to do is pull the neckline aside to access nursing openings on the inner layer, offering a discreet solution when out in public and socialising while breastfeeding.

Other access solutions include Empire Access for breastfeeding with access located under the bust through the empire line of the dress. Hem-Lift Access, Side Seam Access, Vertical Front Access and Drop Cup Access are the additional options you might find; these are tailored towards making breastfeeding clothes as functional as possible.

A whole new wardrobe

If youre a pregnant mum-to-be or new mum, youll have been quick to acknowledge that your clothing size will or has already changed but that doesnt necessarily mean to say that you have to abandon a sense of style.Multi-award winning designers have teamed up with bespoke online retailers to provide clothing that is comfortable, lightweight and replete with teasing features to make you look and feel beautiful.Whether its maternity couture or simply warm maternity/nursing knitwear that youre looking for, there are a plethora of lines available to help you complete a whole new wardrobe.

Whats more, with Cross-Over clothing suitable for both pregnancy and nursing theres no need to splash out on two new sets of clothing.Quality specialist retailers can supply clothes designed to take you from pregnancy to the magical nursing bonding process.Discover the increasingly varied collection of maternity and nursing fashion by searching for a boutique online retailer. Some companies can even off private fitting appointments to help you find nursing clothes and breastfeeding dresses that really work for your changing body shape.From nightwear to swimwear, enjoy a range that leaves you confident and in control throughout pregnancy and nursing.

A Beautiful Mummy is a boutique online retailer specialising in providing pregnant and nursing women with fashionable yet functional clothing. Their complete collection allows customers to choose a whole new wardrobe designed to make mums-to-be and new mums look and feel beautiful.
Nursing dresses

Boost your culinary skills with cooking classes in London

Many of us dream of becoming great cooks; creating home-made delicious meals and treats which are not merely sustenance but a really enjoyable dining experience. But most people pass off this idyllic living as a dream, meant for others who enjoy a more relaxed pace of life in the countryside. London is a fast-paced city after all, and living in the capital means that a lot of the busy working population rely upon convenience; whether this is fast food, pre-prepared meals or eating out. It is easy to forget that living in or around London gives you the opportunity to easily improve your culinary skills.

Ask any chef where he learnt to cook and his answer wont be that he learnt from books, cookery TV programmes or by having a top-of-the-range food processor. Whether you ask the commis chef in your local pub or the executive chefs of the worlds top restaurants, their answer will be the same; that they learnt from other chefs. This goes for home cooks too. There is no better way to learn or improve your culinary skills than from an expert chef who wants to share his knowledge and rediscover your passion for cooking with you.

London cooking schools offer the opportunity to learn from the very best chefs with easy, fun and accessible cooking classes which look to not only improve your culinary skills for life but do so in a relaxed and sociable environment. By living in or near London you have the unique chance to make cooking not a chore but an enjoyable experience, by learning from senior chefs from Michelin starred kitchens whose enthusiasm is infectious.

The best schools in the capital offer a range of hundreds of classes every month with different themes, lengths and dates, enabling you to fit your class or classes around your lifestyle. Whether you are a complete novice or an experienced cook, there are guaranteed to be cooking classes in London to suit you. Perhaps you are a lover of Moroccan, Italian, Indian or Spanish cuisine, or maybe you are looking to improve a particular skill in a masterclass designed to teach you the art of macaroon baking or improve your knife skills in meat classes.

Meat is one of the most difficult things to cook well, yet failed attempts at cooking meat dishes successfully can easily result in a ruined meal or even food poisoning. For this reason, meat classes are the most valuable cooking classes available in London.

Meat classes offer you the chance to learn how to master the coveted technique of how to cook a difficult sirloin or rump steak to perfection, create easy and quick tea-time meals such as chicken teriyaki with noodles, or impress at a dinner party with elegant main courses like Barbary duck breast with foie gras. If you aim to create meals which you can easily recreate at home look for a cooking school which hosts meat classes. Often offering three courses, meat classes cover versatile recipes which can be easily translated into your everyday life, covering not only meat but the accompaniments too.

Whether you are looking for meat classes or vegetarian classes a London cooking school will provide cooking workshops which provide a fun experience and improve your culinary skills.

Latelier des Chefs host over 500 cooking classes a month in their London cooking school in a range of themes and lengths. Their fun and relaxed classes are led by expert chefs in state-of-the-art kitchens; and whether you are consider yourself a novice or an experienced cook Latelier des Chefs offer something for everyone.
Latelier des Chefs cooking classes