Category: Holiday Matters

Oh I Do Like To Be Beside The Seaside…

Posted on by Strathmore House
plymouth sound

There is nothing that makes you smile more than a holiday. Make that a holiday in Plymouth and your smile gets a whole heap bigger! But being by the sea isn’t just a ‘nice’ thing to do…it’s a healthy thing too!

Plymouth is one of the single most beautiful coastal landscapes in the South of England; but it’s also a tonic.

Visiting Plymouth is GOOD FOR YOU. Our city by the sea has several really fantastic benefits to your health and well-being. Here are our top THREE reasons why Plymouth isn’t just a beautiful choice; it’s a healthy one too.

A Great Night’s Sleep…

Being by the sea really helps if you’re a light sleeper or you struggle to fall asleep. The sea air is cleaner and fresher and so with the higher levels of oxygen, it really can improve sleep.

What’s more, studies have proven that it’s not only the sea air, but the sea sounds too. The noise of the ocean is soothing for your brain. So, hearing the waves and the noises of the sea can not only help you relax, but it can help clear your mind, lower stress and strengthen your immune system.

There is also something in appreciating the vastness of the ocean, like the nights sky. It can help put things into perspective; those niggling small worries float away as you gaze in awe at the waves and the horizon.

Plug Into the Ions Not The Iphones…

There is something we should all take advantage of when we are holidaying beside the sea, the negative ions in the air!

Negative ions increase your sense of well-being and mental clarity by removing the debilitating effects of excessive positive ions in your environment. They are often described as a natural antidepressant.

In our every days, we are exposed to so much; computers, television and electronics; we are surrounded by a lot of positive ions. So, when on holiday in Plymouth take an hour without your  phones and gadgets and increase your exposure to negative ions. It will enhance your immune system, increase alertness and improve your concentration.

Beauty Brings Out The Active In You …

Holidaying by the sea is like having the most amazing treadmill! You will just want to walk the coast line and soak up the vista.  Especially here in Plymouth.

When you walk along the World-famous Plymouth Hoe Promenade, it really is quite breath-taking.  There are a number of really amazing walks and cycle routes in and around Plymouth and once you start, you wont want to stop!

If you can see yourself holidaying by the sea; then join us here at Strathmore House Apartments. The perfect home away from home in Plymouth, Britain’s Ocean City. 

The Barcode Is Coming …

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The Barcode…

A £53million cinema and restaurant complex here in Plymouth is a lot more than just an oversized looking barcode! This amazing complex will house a 12-screen Cineworld IMAX 4DX cinema – the first IMAX in Devon and Cornwall! It will also be home to Paradise Island Adventure Golf and some new restaurants too.

If you already thought Plymouth was packed with wonder, then this monochromatic wonderland will simply add to the amazing array of activities that Britain’s Ocean City has to offer.

What a week…

The first wave of opening will be on October 21st when Five guys, Nando’s and Zizzi open their doors. Then on October 22nd Cineworld and Cosy Club will follow. By Thursday 24th October Paradise Island Adventure Golf will open; and to add to the excitement Drake Circus will be changing their opening hours too!

From Monday 21st October Plymouth’s Drake Circus will be extending their hours so visitors can really make the most of the leisure offer here in our stunning city by the sea.

The new hours will be:

Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri and Sat 9.30am-7pm

Thu 9.30am-8pm

Sun 11am-5pm

Drake Circus The Barcode will span more than 100,000 sq ft and will offer an additional element to our visitors’ itineraries when they are staying in Britain’s Ocean City.

Perhaps one of Plymouth’s most vast demonstrations of figure-ground; the building has already settled into the skyline and when you next visit, it will surely be worth a scan!

Coast Into Winter | A Fabulous Summer In The City By The Sea…

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With our strong sense of purpose, passion and pride for Plymouth; we truly appreciate the width and breadth on offer for our visitors all year through.

Summer In The City gives thousands of guests the opportunity to explore the riches on offer. Britain’s Ocean City takes a unique shape in comparison to other city destinations in the UK. It has a wealth of history and heritage. Its cultural heartbeat creates a rhythm that is rich and varied; and offers a plethora of opportunities and activities for everyone.

With so much to see and do; Strathmore House Apartments know it’s essential that guests visiting Plymouth have somewhere so stay. Somewhere that matches the creativity and innovation on offer. With the Winter season almost upon us, the fun and laughter doesn’t end just because the sunnier days are behind us!

Winter Wonderland…

Our city will soon be awash with beautiful sparkling Christmas lights and of course the ever popular Christmas Markets. There really is something so magical about Christmas in Plymouth. No matter how old you are! The magic never seems to fade; even with the stress of finding the right gifts!

Join Us …

Battling the crowds in a city-centre precinct can make Christmas shopping a grim endurance test. That’s why we love the Christmas Market approach – especially when you use it as an excuse for a short break away!

A tradition claimed by the Germans, the first of which is believed to have been held in Munich in the year 1310. It was once called a Winter market, then eventually became known as Christmas markets. From stopping for coffee breaks and warm pastries, visiting the markets and enjoying scenic boat rides. There are countless things to do in Plymouth during the winter season.

With wooden stalls and beautiful sights, as well as sensational, unique gifts to inspire; there is everything you could possibly desire. Of course no festive season is complete without a grand platter of amazing street food, as vendors fill the air with their tantalising delights! Then, as night descends the smell of homemade mulled wine; as its rustic spice entices your senses and tastes better than anything else!

Every city looks the most beautiful when the people there are happy and content. With Christmas being the most joyous time of the year, and Plymouth so seasoned in putting on the most magical time, the streets are full of laughter, good experiences, and the opportunity for you to not only buy the best gifts, but make the most beautiful memories.

More than 300 unique individual stalls are spread across 10 sites in the northwestern city, offering food, drinks, crafts and gifts in a winding trail that takes in a lot of the city’s main streets. A melting pot of nationalities, the Christmas markets in Manchester are famous for traditional bratwurst but you can also treat yourself to Hungarian goulash, Spanish paella or a good old-fashioned hog roast. Manchester is the third largest city in the UK with plenty of things to do all year round, but Christmas is perhaps when it shines brightest.

Small Bites …

When: Nov 28-Dec 19 2019

Where: In the heart of the city

Why:Log cabins and other seasonal stalls, festooned with fairy lights, will house traders from the South West and beyond, selling everything from handmade jewellery and clothing, to artwork and homewares.

What time: More information coming soon!

 

A Short Break Itinerary For Our City By The Sea…

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plymouth sound

We know that not everyone has the chance to take a long break in Plymouth.  To really soak up all that this beautiful city has on offer; and that’s ok! At Strathmore House Apartments you are on the doorstep to the plethora of riches on offer in Plymouth. So, it makes it really easy to pack in all the wonders in just a long-weekend or a short break.

Situated on Elliot Street, the area is home to some breathtaking Victorian architecture and alive with history; which continues to provide us with a calming rhythm, sincere sense of style and everlasting elegance of the era.

A Short Stroll From All The Sights…

A short stroll away you will find Plymouth Hoe, which forms the natural heart of Plymouth. With its breathtaking views across Plymouth Sound, you can see why it is one of the most perfect natural harbours in the world. With terraced cafes and cliff edged bars and restaurants; you can grab a coffee whilst absorbing the sounds and smell of the sea air. It really is the perfect treat and by far the nicest way to appreciate Plymouths history.

Standing tall on the green-lawned expanse and hard to miss is the iconic Smeaton’s Tower. A place enjoyed over the years by many, not least The Beatles! Open throughout the year it offers a beautiful vantage point from its stunning lantern room.

The local hero is of course Sir Francis Drake. You will see him immortalised in a statue on the Hoe.  In the place he finished his game on the green before heading off to defeat the Spanish Armada in 1588.

Then to Plymouth’s modern heroes. The troops of 29 Commando Royal Artillery, based in the beautiful Royal Citadel. Here you will see the most impressive 17th century fortress in Britain.

On the Hoe you will also stumble across our large outdoor, salt water pool; Tinside Lido. Built in 1935 providing a cooling retreat on those hot summer days. With  fountains, inflatable fun sessions and stunning views across Plymouth Sound. Complete with a sunbathing terrace, loungers, deckchairs and wet-suit hire all with disabled access. What is truly charming about the Lido is they still allow you to take your own refreshments and picnics.  Making a great spot to open your wicker baskets and flasks, grab a deckchair and enjoy lunch with a view!

To The Left, To The Left..!

Continue your stroll to the left of Smeaton’s Tower and you will discover the very beautiful Plymouth Barbican. Dazzling you with its charm and wealth of history, like a wise old owl, packed with knowledge and oozing history. From the Pilgrim Fathers who set sail aboard the Mayflower Ship in 1620 from the Mayflower Steps; to the home of Plymouth Gin and it’s fine Distillery. Hints of the talented artist Robert Lenkiewicz can be seen and some quirky, independent shops and of course delicious fish and chips!   Here you can also hop on a water-taxi and explore our city by the sea.

To The Right, To The Right..!

Following the coast to your right of Smeatons Tower you have the newly developed Millbay; showcasing the areas engineering past and stunning seascapes. The view of the Millbay basin which was designed and built by distinguished engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel in 1857; is remarkable. The gorgeous vista encompassing boats and catamarans bobbing sleepily in the marina and Drake’s Island beyond is the perfect backdrop after a busy day.

Close by you can also find the largest collection of Grade I listed buildings in Europe; The Royal William Yard. These former Royal Naval victualling buildings are alive with cafes, bars, restaurants, museum, art galleries and shops, making a great place to soak up the atmosphere and stunning backdrop that nightfall brings.

Looking out across Plymouth Sound you can also spy a historic island fortress with an underground network of tunnels called Drakes Island. The island boasts a 16th Century barracks and a pier and its history is rooted deeply in the DNA of Plymouth. Sir Francis Drake departed from the island in 1577 and he returned to the same spot three years later, after travelling the globe.

Drake’s Island now has a new custodian, Morgan Phillips, who has amazing plans to restore it for the people of Plymouth and visitors to the city.

Adding to your list of must sees whilst in Plymouth is Devonport, a place that is well worth a visit if you have time and like history.

Moving Along…

Formerly named Plymouth Dock, Devonport is home to Devonport Park, the oldest formal public park in Plymouth and the fabulous Devonport Guildhall. Nestled in the heart of Devonport, the Guildhall and Column are historic gems and now home to an amazing artisan baker, and old morgue, local artist’s exhibitions in the Cells and much, much more!

The high ground that you see in Devonport is called Mount Wise, standing tall to protect the coastal approach to the dockyard. You also have the very beautiful Richmond Walk.

Moving back in land, Plymouth is the largest centre for shopping in the South West, outside of Bristol. It features many independent retailers, market stalls, as well as national and international brands and high street favourites. The City Centre is pedestrianised, so you can take your time wondering around picking up unique finds and visiting our landmark shopping centre, Drake Circus.

And there you have it! A pre-made itinerary that can be enjoyed on foot over two or three days. An itinerary full of diverse riches of offer in Britain’s Ocean City!

 

Heritage Open Days…

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Break out the bubbly, it’s time to celebrate!

Here at Strathmore House Apartments we LOVE to celebrate … and celebrate we will!

This year marks a very special occasion.  2019 brings us the SILVER anniversary of Heritage Open Days. For two and a half amazing decades, Heritage Open Days has shared historical and cultural greatness.

Heritage Open Days…

Established in 1994 as England’s contribution to the European Heritage Days, each September over 40,000 volunteers across England all contribute to over 5,000 events! These events celebrate and showcase our fantastic, rich and diverse history and culture; giving everyone amazing opportunities to see hidden places and try out new experiences – all of which are FREE to explore.

It is growing year on year and is already the country’s largest heritage festival and enjoyed by all of us. A national campaign that encompassing a huge range of heritage events and attractions.

Heritage Open Days has not only highlighted hidden gems and celebrates England’s riches, but also gives people the opportunity to come together and share the stories and history that matter the most to us all.

 

Exploring The Region…

There are 100’s of events planned across Devon & Cornwall this September. What’s more,  Strathmore House Apartments is in the perfect central location to explore all of them!

We have so much history on our doorstep, Heritage Open Days is the perfect platform to explore. It gives everyone a free way to learn and to get involved with everything that is on offer. There is so much that is rich and meaningful about our region, and of course our days gone by.

Find Out more…

To find out more visit their website: Heritage Open Days and to stay with us whilst you explore our history check our availability here.

Have fun delving into yesterday, whilst making memories that will last a lifetime.

Get Lost…

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Holiday in Plymouth

Getting Lost In Plymouth…

Can you imagine! Long ago, people actually found their way around a new area or the great outdoors without Google Maps! Here at Strathmore House Apartments, we challenged friends to explore Plymouth WITHOUT the aid of a mobile device!

It was so much fun hearing all about their day. They went out and about, exploring Plymouth’s beauty by chance!

Using only natural directional signs and the tourist information signage around Plymouth we asked them to set aside their mobile maps and just ‘get lost’ in the beauty of Plymouth!

Meet John & Margaret…

John and Margaret boldly took on the challenge, and we sat down with them the next day to see how they found their adventures in Britain’s Ocean City…

“We decided to leave our phones at home! Although in our 60’s we do tend to lean on them more often than not. We ask hundreds of questions a day using Google; normally to appease a disagreement! John mostly wins – he was a History teacher for 40 years so has the winning hand most of the time!

We LOVED this challenge! So much so, we decided that we would do this more often as it felt so freeing! Don’t get me wrong, technology is advantageous and we wouldn’t be without it, but to escape it and truly explore is a remarkable experience. Armed with just Johns watch (to keep an eye on the dinner reservation) we were off!

We left at 10.15, just after breakfast and headed out of the apartments up to the Hoe. I must say, the signage and information boards are a real asset to Plymouth; we loved learning about the area and just looking. The vista is breathtaking.

The Liner Lookout…

As we were walking towards the sea we stumbled across a beautiful little cafe. It’s called the Liner Lookout. They were just opening and Ann (I believe she was called) really made us feel welcome. The coffee was spectacular, and the view breathtaking. They do food too, but we had just had breakfast, so will go back as the prices were VERY reasonable. We learnt that it was a watch tower in the 1870’s, looking out for the big ships coming in to Plymouth. We will be doing more research; this was just what we picked up in our conversation over coffee!

We then left and walked down to the sea, it was a clear day and the view really was incredible. We decided to turn right and walk down through the park. I love gardening and so we wondered around looking at the amazing splashes of colour – and of course watched the children eating ice-cream and having goes on the little bright train!

We went on looking at the amazing architecture and the odd shapes of the buildings that had obviously been bombed in the war.

The Beauty Of Plymouth…

We came to Millbay Park, you had to really hunt for any plaques and signage here, but it’s worth it when you find them! It was a little bit of a letdown and one of the only times we wished we had Google! Luckily we met a gentleman walking his dog who told us where we had to look, and that the area was home to an old prison site and the Soap Factory and that Chris Robinson does some great books on the history of Plymouth – so John is very excited about that!

Then we took a gentle stroll down to the Royal William Yard. We have been before and love the atmosphere. There is a lovely clothes shop called Identity Fashion, we had a coffee in Ocean Studios and then a glass of wine in the Seco Lounge. Walking around the buildings was captivating; we decided that if we were ever to move to Plymouth then this would definitely be a place to consider!

Our stroll took us up some steps and on to Devils Point Park. The view was spectacular and the signage was brilliant. We were able to look out and know what we were seeing! Again, we got chatting to the lady in the cafe, she told us that the area by families to say goodbye or welcome to loved ones on naval ships as they made their way to and from the dockyards. You could really feel that in the air. There were public toilets here too, so it made a great pit-stop after the copious beverages that fueled our footsteps!

The Walk Home…

We left and walked down back to the roundabout outside the Royal William Yard and down by the Cremyll Ferry. They are really regular, every thirty minutes, but we had to make our dinner reservation so decided not to explore this time.

We took a mosey on down to Union Street, and then stopped off at a lovely little shop which did the most amazing coffee. Then back to Strathmore House Apartments, it was just after 4pm.

What an amazing day we had! John got straight on Goggle to look for Chris Robinson books and I called our daughter to tell her of our adventures! We then got ready leisurely for dinner on the Barbican in the Pasta Bar, it was divine and the service amazing.

 

Family Fun In Plymouth…

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Happy is said to be the family that can eat onions together.
–Charles Dudley Warner, author

 

August always feels like a significant month within the year. For many of us because this really highlights a time of perfect family fun … and the fondest of family memories. This was the month when the weather was better, school was out and the days felt long and sunny.

Family get togethers were held. The picnic blankets and ball games came out of the garage and the car boot was loaded with the excitement of summer!

The day was planned and every family unit brought Tupperware full of boiled eggs, pickled onions and corned beef sandwiches! Whilst competition was rhyf because everyone wanted to win at the rounders!

Today, it can be a little more challenging to get the entire family together. Much more planning is needed – but boy is it worth it when we do!

Strathmore House Apartments …

Strathmore House Apartments are the perfect space to get everyone together for a few days of family fun. We have apartments that can accommodate 2 – 8 guests, in our 1-4 bedroomed apartments. Every month has amazing things happening in Britain’s Ocean City and August is no different!

This is the the month that is always full to the brim with events, activities, festivals and more in Plymouth – with lots of wonderful free fun things too.  What’s more, with our fabulous kitchens it’s so easy to prepare an alfresco heaven of more than just a pickled onion or two!

August In Plymouth …

August brings an array of fabulous activities in a city that really blossoms in the longer days.

There is the Love Summer Festival;  Fireworks Championships; Outdoor Theatre; Plymouth Pride; Ocean City Blues N Jazz Festival and so much more.

It’s not just the events themselves that bring colour to Plymouth, the entire city shines with energy and passion.

Drakes Circus brings colour to our amazing indoor shopping centre with ‘Drakes Circus Pride’ this week, whilst St Luke’s have their heard of elephants brighten our streets with Elmers Big Parade.

Plus you have the stunning Tinside on your doorstep; offering a perfect slice of the quintessential British seaside, where laughter ripples as much as the waves.

Plan your family fun today; stay with us and explore Plymouth whilst making memories that will last a lifetime.

A Darling Time By The Seaside…

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Staff Have Their Say On Their City.

Plymouth is etched in the heart of everyone that has visited, who lives here and who works in our beautiful city by the sea.

Like a stick of rock, they say if a ‘Plymouthian’ was to be cut open, there would be Plymouth Pride running through their veins!

So this summer, we will be asking our amazing team here at Strathmore House Apartments to give a chapter, in less than 500 words, on what Plymouth means to them.

First up…

Elinor Eaton, Development Manager at Strathmore House Apartments, Plymouth.

The power of a Plymouth holiday isn’t just what it gives you; it’s what it takes from you too!

The Perfect holiday destination…Plymouth. And perhaps the greatest natural anti-depressant the world has to offer.

In a life that is far more hectic than ever before there is, in my humble opinion, nothing quite as relaxing, refreshing, revitalising or releasing as escaping to the sight of the sea and to Plymouth.

Picture this if you will…

The sun shining on your skin and warming it gentle as the breeze clips your curls. The sound of the waves crashing against the shore, gently brushing the pebbles. Seagulls chanting overhead. The smell of perfectly brewed Devon Coffee beans and freshly baked pastries from the pier side cafes. The clinking of ice in a tall glass of Plymouth Gin & Tonic … and the thought of a few blissful days of nothing but this … on repeat!

Tell me. Could there be anything better?

United, your senses become alive and your hectic everyday a thing of the past. All you  have threaded through your next few every days is the release of your tense shoulders, your clenched teeth and your worry frowns. Nothing will be more real than having a darling time by our seaside. Nothing will be more freeing that what our seaside gives but what it takes away too!

Imagine life as a deep sea dive. Coming to the surface for a deep intake of air, filling your lungs to then duck your head back under again.

We take the air to survive, but we forget how to thrive.

A common occurrence in the 21st century. Our previous generations before us working only to live, now it feels as if we live only to work.

How do we get the balance right?

We get the balance by not just visiting Plymouth, but learning from it too.  It may feel like a break, an escape from the frantic city pace, into a less rapid way of life. But thanks to our amazing city, we can all learn how to bring the sea spirit – back to the city streets.

How we can take a moments breath not just for survival but to appreciate the view, the moment and the time. All precious and all too often forgotten.

A holiday in Plymouth isn’t just a holiday.

Our rich past is in every footstep we take. Our amazing vista on every corner we turn. The sea air in every rich breath that we take.

We can all learn something from Britain’s Ocean City, but don’t just come here to find something. Come to Plymouth to lose something too. Lose the tight chest. The panicked soul and the stress in your veins and let Plymouth wash it all away.

There really is a little magic in the Plymouth air! 

Visit us and see for yourself!

 

#HolidayMatters – Packing Edition…

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holiday packing

Packing The Nikki Way…

As the sun begins to beat down on Plymouth, we are all thinking about our summer holidays!

Spending time away from home; simply chilling out and relaxing; escaping from the normal everyday and exploring new scenery. That is the perfect holiday and is exactly what we all need every so often.

Plymouth is the perfect city for any holiday break. With so much to see and do, and of course our lovely central apartments, you can have the best summer holiday.

No matter where you are travelling from or to, or what you are doing; we all wish we could bypass the packing! It’s stressful, it can be expensive and you always forget something!

So, to help you find your packing mojo, we ask our Finance Manager, Nikki Field to share her Holiday Packing Top Tips in our latest edition of #HolidayMatters.

From Shower Caps for Shoes and sneaky tips on taking your favourite perfumes – Nikki has all the #HolidayMatters know how when it comes to your packing!

To read or print simply click here!

Happy Hampers #HolidayMatters | Having Fun With Your Holiday Food

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mix of food on stall

Holidays Matter – Edition ONE!

On the one hand; when you think about holidays the last thing that springs to mind is being a slave to the stove!

Eating out when you are on holiday is the best way to avoid cooking. Yet this can end up being pretty expensive if it’s done every night. It can sometimes feel rushed and less personal. Plus for many,  after consecutive nights out, it can leave you craving a simple home-cooked meal.

So, the question is:

How Do We Add FUN Into Holiday Food?

In order to get some top tips and great advice we seek the help of the Executive Chef who works for the Family portfolio in which Strathmore House Apartments is part of.

Paul Doidge has been cooking up a storm in Plymouth for many years and so knows only too well what a great addition sensational food can play in any experience; especially holidays.

“One of the greatest attributes of a serviced apartment is the kitchen facilities. I’m obviously an advocate for eating out, especially in one of our three restaurants: Steve’s Brasserie, The Dock, Kuku Sushi Bar and Robata and The Mission, but I also know the sensational feeling of feeding friends and family and creating those amazing dining room table moments. These moments then lead on into an evening of laughter and fun. Then they become memories that last a lifetime, creating stories that come out year after year!”

Paul Doidge 

A Full Kitchen Doesn’t Automatically Mean A Fun One!

Our serviced apartments boast a full kitchen; from pots, pans; utensils, fridge, freezer, microwave, oven and everything else you might possibly need to become a holiday chef. Yet although you have everything you need to hand; the real question is: how do you stop getting caught between wanting to create an archive of memories through your food and not wearily churning out meal after meal, day after day like we do at home?

“For me, I enjoy every aspect of cooking. But that doesn’t mean I don’t understand  being a ‘slave to the stove’ isn’t on the top of everyone’s holiday itinerary! The thing is; you don’t have to be a Michelin star chef to enjoy making tasty meals that everyone will enjoy, with a delectable array of quick and healthy dishes. If you want to have a truly triumphant summer holiday cooking experience, take my 5 Top Tips to gain haste over effort; to have fun and to perhaps even change the way you feel about cooking as a whole.”

Paul Doidge 

Get The Top Tips Now!

So – it would seem if we can nail holiday cooking, we can perhaps have a new relationship with cooking in our kitchens at home! Who knew we could get so much from our serviced apartment experience!

Click HERE for Paul’s 5 Top Tips in our printable, screenshotable help sheet.

The experiences that you have whilst staying with us really matter. So does your time in our beautiful Ocean City.  If we can give you any further news, views or reviews that you think will help; we would love to hear from you.