Npower employees prepare to run for charity

Thu, 17 May 2012 10:03:47 GMT

npower employees in Solihull have been limbering up as they prepare to pound the pavements for charity.

More than 110 employees from npower's offices in Solihull will be undertaking a ten kilometre run to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support. They'll be racing against each other to try and reach their fundraising target of £4,000. The race will start at Tudor Grange Park and participants will make their way around the surrounding area.

Ruth Worton, Charity Manager at npower, said: "This is the first time that we've organised a run for Macmillan in Solihull and it's great to see so many people signed up to take part. Whatever their ability, everyone has been training really hard in the run-up to the event. Macmillan is a charity close to many of our hearts and we can’t wait to get out on the track and start raising money for such a good cause."

Over the last eight years, npower's partnership with Macmillan has reached more than £5 million. This has been achieved through large scale fundraising events and through individual efforts from staff who have run marathons and climbed mountains. This year there will be a number of 10K runs and charity walks taking places at npower offices throughout the UK.

Ruth continued: "We're proud to have such a long term partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support, which is valued at more than £5 million. It’s a cause that is close to home for many of our employees and this event is another example of their passion to make a difference and help people affected by cancer.

"I'd like to wish everyone taking part good luck and thank them for their enthusiasm and support for the fantastic work that Macmillan does."

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About Macmillan Cancer Support:
Macmillan Cancer Support improves the lives of people affected by cancer, providing practical, medical, emotional and financial support. Working alongside people affected by cancer, Macmillan works to improve cancer care. One in three Britons will get cancer. Two million are living with and beyond cancer. For anyone affected by cancer, Macmillan can help.

For those living with cancer, the good days really matter. Macmillan is there to help them have more good days. For answers, support or just a chat, visit www.macmillan.org.uk or call Macmillan on 0808 808 00 00.

About npower
npower is one of Britain's largest electricity suppliers and supplies gas, electricity and related services to 6.6 million customers across the UK.

The partnership between Macmillan and npower was short-listed for the Charity Times Corporate National Partnership of the Year 2010.

The National Trust launches legal challenge against landmark wind farm decision

Fri, 11 May 2012 09:33:29 GMT

The National Trust, English Heritage and East Northamptonshire Council have made a joint legal challenge against planning permission for a wind farm that would be built within one mile of a Grade I listed building and registered park and garden.

The proposal would see four 126.5m wind turbines built within the setting of the Lyveden New Bield site, a place described by the Planning Inspector who granted approval for the plans as "probably the finest example of an Elizabethan garden [with a] cultural value of national if not international significance".

After planning permission was initially refused by the local Council, the development was given consent on appeal in March 2012. The three organisations started legal proceedings on 23 April under section 288 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. It is extremely rare for English Heritage and the National Trust to pursue legal action and it is the first time that East Northamptonshire Council has ever taken a case to this level.

Fiona Reynolds, Director-General of the National Trust explained the decision to take the matter to the Administrative Court: "We fully support renewable energy and have made our own commitment to halve our dependence on fossil fuels by 2020. We have also backed a number of wind proposals where scale and setting have been considered appropriate.

"However, the decision to allow a development of this size so close to one of the country's most treasured historic places is both damaging to Lyveden New Bield and could have serious implications for other heritage sites across the UK."

As a Grade I listed building, registered park and garden and scheduled ancient monument, Lyveden New Bield's unfinished Elizabethan lodge and gardens have the highest heritage designation possible. The wind turbines would be prominent, modern structures in a landscape that still evokes the character of Lyveden New Bield's historic Rockingham Forest surroundings. The turbines would be visible from almost everywhere on the property.

Simon Thurley, Chief Executive of English Heritage, said: "Our challenge to his decision is not simply about the balance of professional judgement between heritage and renewable energy. The Inspector did not adequately take into account the contribution that Lyveden New Bield's historic and rural surroundings make to its immense significance."

Leader of East Northamptonshire Council, Steven North added: "It is regrettable that it has come to this, but we fully support this legal challenge and will be working closely with the National Trust and English Heritage to protect this heritage site."

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Notes to Editors:
Section 288 provides a legal right for people who are affected by a planning permission to apply to the courts for redress if they can show that the decision maker made an erroneous decision in law. A challenge brought under section 288 is designed to put under judicial scrutiny the way in which the decision maker reached their decision rather than the merits of the decision.

Further information on the planning application (case reference 2156757) can be found at: www.pcs.planningportal.gov.uk/pcsportal/ViewCase.asp?caseid=2156757&coid=32833

The National Trust's response to the planning appeal can be seen at: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/press/press-releases/view-page/item772786/

The National Trust's position on wind energy can be viewed at: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/what-we-do/big-issues/energy-and-climate-change/our-views/view-page/item749709/

About English Heritage:
English Heritage is the Government's statutory advisor on the historic environment. They provide advice on how best to conserve England's heritage for the benefit of everyone. They work with landowners, businesses, planners and developers, national, regional and local government, the Third Sector, local communities and the general public to help them understand, value, care for and enjoy England’s historic environment.

About National Trust:
The National Trust looks after more than 250,000 hectares of countryside, 710 miles of coastline and hundreds of historic places across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. More information can be found at: www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

National Trust launches campaign to get children outdoors

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 12:42:19 GMT

The National Trust has launched a nationwide campaign to encourage sofa-bound children to take to the outdoors and enjoy classic adventures from skimming stones to building dens.

The '50 Things To Do Before You’re 11¾' initiative is in response to a report commissioned by the National Trust which highlighted research that fewer than one in ten children regularly play in wild places compared to almost half a generation ago, a third have never climbed a tree and one in ten can’t ride a bike.*

The charity's '50 Things To Do Before You’re 11¾' campaign provides a checklist for under-12s (and those who are young at heart) including everything from running around in the rain and bug hunting, to setting up a snail race, damming a stream, flying a kite and making a (delicious) mud pie.

To help bring to life these simple pleasures, the Trust has formed a group of Elite Rangers who will share their expert tips on enjoying outdoor adventures and their enthusiasm for encouraging children to play alfresco.

The five rangers, all Trust staff, come from across the UK and range in age from 29 to 49. They include a 6ft 3" tree climbing expert, who has scaled 50 metre-high trees, (a.k.a. Tree Man), Captain Skim who can skim a stone over 26 times and Midas the treasure hunter. The other rangers are Den-Boy, an outdoor hideaway-building champion, and a mini-beast expert, a.k.a. The Bug Catcher.

The fantastic five will be offering top tips on their chosen skill to the nation's children over the National Trust Free Weekend (21st and 22nd April) when the National Trust will open up over 200 of its houses and gardens for free over the weekend, as well as all the countryside spaces it cares for, which are always free access.

Kids can pick up a free '50 Things To Do Before You’re 11¾' scrapbook from participating properties and start ticking off their outdoor adventures to do list. Plus, the fun can continue at home by visiting nationaltrust.org.uk/50things where children can fill in their completed activities and earn points towards their very own explorer badge.

Tony Berry, Visitor Experience Director of the National Trust, commented: "Our Elite Rangers are a fantastic bunch, with bags of enthusiasm for the outdoors and what it can offer kids. We're hoping that the nation's children will embrace the 50 things and start having their very own outdoor adventures with their family, with our Free Weekend the perfect opportunity to get outside in the fresh air."

– ends –

Notes to Editors:
*Statistics from Natural England (2009) Childhood and Nature: a survey on changing relationships with nature across generations. http://www.naturalengland.org.uk/Images/Childhood%20and%20Nature%20Survey_tcm6-10515.pdf
And Play England: August 2011 (a third have never climbed a tree and one in ten can’t ride a bike)

About National Trust:
The National Trust looks after more than 250,000 hectares of countryside, 710 miles of coastline and hundreds of historic places across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. For more information and ideas for great value family days out go to: www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

The National Trust acts now to save children's relationship with the outdoors

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 10:21:24 GMT

A new National Trust report has found that evidence of a long-term and dramatic decline in children's relationship with the outdoors is 'overwhelming' and urgent action is needed to bridge this growing gap before it's too late.

In his Natural Childhood report* naturalist, author and TV producer Stephen Moss charts years of academic research and a steady stream of surveys on the subject, highlighting how a generation of children is finally losing touch with the natural world.

The report outlines a clear need to tackle the rise of 'Nature Deficit Disorder', a term coined by the US based writer Richard Louv, to describe a growing dislocation between children and nature**.

Report author Stephen Moss, said: "We all know the benefits being outdoors can bring, and as parents we want our children to spend more time outdoors than they do.

"But despite this overwhelming evidence and the different initiatives and schemes run by organisations across the UK, our kids are spending less and less time in the outdoors.

"The time to act is now, whilst we still have a generation of parents and grandparents who grew up outdoors and can pass on their experience and whilst there remains a determination to do something positive in this area."

A two-month inquiry, facilitated by the National Trust, will take evidence from leading experts and the public to look at how we can reconnect this and future generations of children with the natural world.

The National Trust is working alongside Arla, the NHS Sustainable Development Unit and film-makers Green Lions, to organise a summit this summer to bring together a range of experts to develop a roadmap for reconnecting children and nature.

Fiona Reynolds, Director-General of the National Trust, said: "Getting outdoors and closer to nature has all sorts of benefits for our children. It keeps them fit, they can learn about the world around them and, most of all, it's fun.

"That's why it's so worrying that so many children today don't have the opportunity to experience the outdoors and nature. Building a den, picking flowers, climbing trees - the outdoors is a treasure trove, rich in imagination. It brings huge benefits that we believe every child should have the opportunity to experience and there are huge costs when they don't."

During the last decade conservation groups, academics, social and health professionals and the media have charted the rise of so-called 'cotton-wool kids' and countless examples of what is going wrong.

Authority figures and layers of bureaucracy have combined in a climate of 'don’t do that' to create an environment where fewer children play in the outdoors. This has led to a situation where kids having fun in the outdoors are painted as showing signs of anti-social behaviour.

The research shows that capturing children before they enter the teenage years is crucial with the research clearly showing if kids get hooked before they reach twelve years old, they will develop a lifelong passion for the environment and outdoors activities***.

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Notes to editors:
* 'Natural Childhood' is available to download for free from www.nationaltrust.org.uk or www.outdoornation.org.uk. Copies can also be emailed on request by contacting outdoor.nation@nationaltrust.org.uk. The report was written by naturalist, writer and broadcaster Stephen Moss
** Richard Louv's book 'Last Child in the Wood' coined the term Nature Deficit Disorder.
*** Play England (2008), quoted in The Observer 3rd August 2008.

About The National Trust:
The National Trust looks after more than 250,000 hectares of countryside, 710 miles of coastline and hundreds of historic places across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. For more information and ideas for great value family days out go to: www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

National Trust appoints 18 Feet & Rising as lead creative agency

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 14:46:21 GMT

The National Trust is to work with agency 18 Feet & Rising as its lead creative partner, following a competitive pitch process.

The brief is to develop an overarching brand strategy that helps deliver the Trust's core charitable purpose - looking after special places for ever, for everyone - whilst broadening the charity's appeal.

The Trust has performed well through the economic downturn, seeing record visitor numbers of 19 million in 2011 and reaching four million members last autumn, but the charity knows the brand can extend its relevance and appeal to more people.

18 Feet & Rising will be at the forefront of evolving perceptions of the Trust, opening up conversations with new and existing audiences and facilitating experiences between people and the places that are special to them.

Clare Mullin, Director of Brand & Marketing at National Trust, said: "We are delighted to be working with 18 Feet & Rising as our lead creative agency.

"They clearly understand our strategic priorities and have shown that they can help make the Trust relevant today through their strategy and creative.

"They've really challenged us and we’re excited by the work we can do with them going forwards."

Jonathan Trimble, Managing Partner at 18 Feet & Rising, said: "It's fantastic to be working with such a special organisation. The Trust has a unique role in terms of the country’s relationships with special places.

"It gives us the chance to bring our creativity to bear in unique ways with unique people."

First steps for 18 Feet & Rising will be to develop the brand strategy, working across the Trust's 5,000 staff and the 62,000 people who assist with the Trust's volunteer projects to express the brand in an authentic and joined-up way. They'll also take on the challenge of developing the Trust's 2013 national campaign.

Throughout the pitch, the National Trust has been supported by pitch consultancy Agency Insight.

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National Trust's Director-General to step down

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 12:34:41 GMT

The National Trust has announced that Fiona Reynolds has decided to leave the charity after more than 11 years as Director-General.

Fiona is to take up her duties as Master of Emmanuel College, University of Cambridge, in the autumn of 2013 - the first woman to be elected Master in the College's history.

She said: "As a graduate of Cambridge I am thrilled to be going back to head one of its finest colleges.

"I have loved every minute leading the National Trust and working with our passionate and dedicated staff, volunteers and supporters.

"I am incredibly proud of all that we have achieved in the last 11 years.

"There is no organisation like it and I will miss it terribly. But it is time to allow someone else an opportunity to make their mark."

Fiona has overseen a period of transformational change at the National Trust, reconnecting the organisation with its original founding purpose, and infusing it with warmth and liveliness.

Membership hit four million last year from 2.7 million in 2001, and visitor numbers to the Trust's 300 properties reached 19 million from 10 million a decade ago. Volunteer numbers have also doubled, with 62,000 people involved last year.

From her earliest days at the Trust Fiona pioneered an 'arms open' approach to conservation, bringing expert work out from behind closed doors to take place in front of visitors, now an integral part of the Trust’s programme to bring places to life.

Property acquisitions have included the vast Victorian Gothic Tyntesfield and its estate near Bristol, Vanbrugh’s Seaton Delaval Hall in Northumberland, the 'back-to-back' terraced houses in Birmingham, John Lennon's boyhood home in Liverpool and the quirky home of Kenyan-born poet Khadambi Asalache in Wandsworth.

These acquisitions have been part of a concerted focus on social and community relevance for the Trust, recently underlined by the long-term lease taken out on Tredegar House in South East Wales.

As a geographer and walker with a passionate interest in landscape, she has systematically added to the 617,000 acres of countryside under the Trust's care.

During this time she has championed the importance of access to the outdoors and nature for people's wellbeing and promoted local and seasonal food with a drive to create 1,000 new allotments on National Trust land.

Most recently, this included the acquisition of the 617-acre Llyndy Isaf estate near Snowdon after a public appeal raised £1 million in seven months from 20,000 donors.

She has overseen a restructure of the governance of the charity, from a 52-member Council to a 12-member Board of Trustees, as well as two major internal restructures which have strengthened and localised the organisation.

While maintaining the Trust's strict party-political neutrality, Fiona has championed its conservation principles, most recently leading the charge against proposed changes to the planning framework which, she warned, would bias planning towards excessive building in the countryside.

Fiona, 53, will continue in her post at the National Trust until her successor is in place. She plans to use the interval between leaving and moving to Cambridge in September 2013 to write a book about her years at the Trust.

-ENDS-

About The National Trust:
The National Trust is one of the most important nature conservation organisations in Europe with over 1,000 sites covering 250,000 hectares, including coastal sites, countryside places, woodland and upland areas; many of which are rich in wildlife. All 17 species of UK bat have been recorded as roosting or breeding on National Trust land and 96 per cent of all resident UK butterflies can be found on National Trust property. The Trust offers many ideas for fun days out and things to do, including countryside walks throughout locations across Britain.

Warick University Research into possible Woodchester wild cat finds no cat DNA on deer

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 16:51:15 GMT

The National Trust asked the University of Warwick to test a roe deer carcass found near Woodchester Park, Gloucestershire in early January after examination of the wounds led to speculation that it may have been killed by a big cat.

Comprehensive DNA tests have found fox DNA on the Woodchester carcass and what is expected to be fox DNA on the second deer carcass found a few miles away.

Dr Robin Allaby, Associate Professor at the School of Life Sciences at the University of Warwick, said: "We did not detect cat DNA on either deer carcass. Other than deer, by far the strongest genetic signal we found on the Woodchester Park carcass was from a fox. That fox DNA was found on the ribs, legs and fur plucking sites from the Woodchester deer carcass.

"On the second deer carcass we found canid DNA. A more detailed analysis is underway to pin down the canid species but our expectation is that that will also be fox DNA."

Dr Robin Allaby took 45 samples in total, from the wounds of the deer carcasses with the aim of testing specifically for DNA from the saliva of any canid (for instance dog or fox) or felid (cat) species which had killed or scavenged from the deer.

He used those samples to carry out 450 PCRs (the polymerase chain reaction is a standard scientific technique to amplify the target DNA), and almost 600 sequence reactions. The team searched for two gene targets each of deer and canid, but over 30 different cat gene targets.

David Armstrong, Head Ranger for the National Trust in Gloucestershire said: "The story of the investigation of the dead deer has really sparked off local curiosity with a lot of people who visit Woodchester Park to explore. People love a mystery like this and although we haven't found a wild cat, many of our visitors clearly believe there might be something interesting living quietly hidden in Woodchester."

Rick Minter, author of a new book on big cats reported in Britain, said: "There has been speculation of breeding amongst feral big cats in the UK. We are no closer to indicating that with these results, but lessons have been learnt from Warwick University's valuable input to this exercise. The strong media interest suggests an appetite to look into this subject further, and recent community surveys in Gloucestershire have indicated a strong desire for big cat evidence to be researched carefully.

"We should not be complacent about possible big cats in the UK, but considering these animals living secretly in our landscape can fire people's imaginations and help us consider all of the wild nature around us. Our outdoors can still hold surprises maybe."

Big cats will do their utmost to avoid contact with people but anyone who does see a big cat in the wild is advised to stay composed and back away from the animal.

Any sightings or possible evidence on National Trust land can also be reported by email to nature@nationaltrust.org.uk.

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About The National Trust:
The National Trust is one of the most important nature conservation organisations in Europe with over 1,000 sites covering 250,000 hectares, including coastal sites, countryside places, woodland and upland areas; many of which are rich in wildlife. All 17 species of UK bat have been recorded as roosting or breeding on National Trust land and 96 per cent of all resident UK butterflies can be found on National Trust land. The charity also offers a number of National Trust holidays, including countryside walks throughout locations across Britain. Those interested in volunteering with the National Trust can find out more at: www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

Church, charity and business leaders call for community energy revolution

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 10:43:14 GMT

The National Trust, along with a coalition of civil society leaders from UK organisations with over twelve million members, has called for community energy to play a substantial role in meeting the country's climate change targets.

Leading figures from The Co-operative; the National Trust; The National Federation of Women's Institutes; the Church of England and Campaign to Protect Rural England will today meet Chris Huhne, Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, to launch their joint 'vision for community energy', which supports dramatically scaling up the number of community owned renewable energy projects across the country, and to discuss how the Government can best assist.

The National Trust has been working on its low carbon villages (LCV) project which aims to tackle the disillusionment and helplessness that many people feel about climate change in two Trust owned villages, Coleshill in Oxfordshire, and Cambo on the Trust's estate at Wallington, Northumberland. Through a process of engagement over a three-year period, LCV aimed to develop positive and practical solutions that could set villagers on a journey to low-carbon living. The energy projects the charity has undertaken across all of its places as part of its commitment to generating half of the UK's energy from renewable energy sources by 2020 can be seen on the National Trust energy map, found on the charity's site.

Patrick Begg, Director of Rural Enterprise at The National Trust, commented: "Many other European countries are way ahead of the UK, as we found out when visiting German communities last year. Germany produces over 20 per cent of its electricity from renewable sources, with communities generating about a quarter of this. In the UK, less than 1 per cent is generated by our communities, a figure this coalition wants to dramatically increase by 2020. We are asking the Government to support us in this."

At the same time, local energy schemes will receive another boost today as The Co-operative launches its Community Energy Challenge, a competition which will result in six communities across the UK receiving support to set up their own energy projects. The Co-operative is setting aside £1 million in 2012 to support community energy. This will involve everything from mentoring for start-ups through to the underwriting of co-operative share offers in local co-operatives.

Paul Monaghan, Head of Social Goals at The Co-operative, said: "We want nothing less than a clean energy revolution, with communities controlling and benefiting from their own renewable energy. Talk of a new dash for gas shales, which could see up to 3,000 wells installed across the UK, highlights the choices we face - more and dirtier sources of fossil fuels or clean energy owned and controlled by communities."

In the coming months and years, the coalition, who were brought together by The Co-operative and its partners, sustainable development organisations Forum for the Future and Carbon Leapfrog, collectively plan to meet at regular intervals to make practical steps to drive the shared vision forwards and champion community energy among their members. Late last year coalition representatives visited Germany to see examples of other successful community schemes.

ENDS

About The National Trust:
The National Trust cares for over 300 of England, Wales and Northern Ireland's greatest historic houses and gardens, 1,000 km of coastline and vast swathes of our most beautiful countryside. People of all ages - individuals, schools and communities - get involved each year with our projects, events and working holidays and over 60,000 volunteers help to bring the properties alive for the Trust's 4 million members and many more million visitors. Those interested in volunteering in the UK can find out more at: www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

Top artists use Blue Dot to support BBC Children in Need

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 16:59:11 GMT

Top stars at BBC's Children In Need have recorded exclusive backstage performances that fans can now get with Blue Dots, the new social currency. By donating just £5 to help children across the UK music lovers will receive 5 Blue Dots that gives them full access to all 10 of these very special recordings of the bands, perfored behind their locked dressing room doors.

The ten tracks include:
- JLS performing an acapella version of 'She Makes Me Wanna'
- An acoustic rendition of 'What Makes You Beautiful' from One Direction
- Gary & Nathan from Snow Patrol with a soulful performance of 'Lifening'
- A unique and amazing band performance of 'Us Against The World' from Coldplay
- Westlife performing an acapella version of 'What About Now'
- The Saturday's performing a unique acoustic version of 'All Fired Up'
- Guy & Craig from Elbow performing 'The River'
- Rizzle Kicks playing a cover version of 'What a Day for a Daydream'
- James Morrison performing a unique cover of Stevie Wonder's 'Knocks Me Off My Feet'

Fans can view sneak previews of the Children in Need videos on the Blue Dot Facebook page at www.facebook.com/BlueDotWorld and get extra Blue Dots by 'liking' Pudsey and BlueDotWorld's Facebook pages.

Blue Dot is the new social currency given to people who do good things for their favourite causes - sharing on social media, volunteering and donating to any one of 100k non-profits globally.

Blue Dot founder Chris Ward commented: "I was previously Creative Director of the UK's Comic Relief, where we work first hand with major stars and brands to create attention-grabbing moments that engage millions of people in volunteering and charitable giving.

"I created Blue Dot, as a genuinely new and innovative way to enable every single cause to create that same impact, every single day of the year."

Natasha Hill, Marketing Director, Cancer Research UK added: "Blue Dot can be to charity what Nectar is to shopping."

BBC Children in Need is the BBC's UK corporate charity which helps disadvantaged children across the UK. More information can be found at bbc.co.uk/pudsey.

About Blue Dot:
Blue Dot is the new social currency given to people who do good things for their favourite charities - sharing on social media, volunteering and donating to any one of 100k non-profits globally.

With their Dots they get access to exclusive products and downloads provided by celebrities and unique career experiences from major brands. The Dots also add up all the good things they do to create a personalised 'Active CV' that can help them get promoted or a new job.

Macmillan Cancer Support reports 70% of Brits don't have a will

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 14:56:37 GMT

Macmillan Cancer Support has revealed that nearly half of the nation (46%) admit they don't like to talk about death at all and feel uncomfortable talking about their will. Two thirds (65%) say they haven't even discussed the subject with close friends or family.

The survey of 2,000 people also revealed that seven in ten (70%) have not even written a will or made plans for what they'll leave behind. To support the launch of 'Will Aid Month', Macmillan Cancer Support has partnered with Jasmine Birtles, financial expert and founder of Moneymagpie.com, to provide a set of tips on will writing, so people can ensure that all they care about and the causes that matter to them the most, are looked after.

Nine in ten (87%) are aware that they can leave a gift to charity in their will however only 38% would. Gifts in wills currently accounts for over 1/3 of Macmillan's funding, but only 7% of the UK population supports charities with a gift in their will. This compares to over 70% who support charities in their lifetime.

Sarah Lee, Legacies Manager at Macmillan commented: "Legacy giving is surrounded by many myths and misunderstandings which stop people from actively considering supporting charities in this way. By raising awareness of the ways in which people can leave gifts to charities in their wills we want to overcome these so that will-writing is discussed more openly and honestly. Gifts in wills are so important for Macmillan, large or small every gift makes a difference, we couldn’t do what we do without them."

Jasmine Birtles highlights the importance of making a will and keeping it updated as personal circumstances change. She said: "If you don't write a will, it can leave distressing, and often expensive problems for those who are left behind. It could also mean that people you wanted to look after end up being left out. I am supporting Macmillan Cancer Support in this matter because I want to encourage people to think about their will and make sure their assets go to people and causes they care about."

For more information on legacy giving, support on will writing or just a chat, interested parties can visit www.macmillan.org.uk/legacies or call Macmillan on 0800 107 4448.

-ENDS-

Notes to Editors:
Research was conducted online by OnePoll amongst 2,000 across the UK in June 2011

About Macmillan Cancer Support:
Macmillan Cancer Support improves the lives of people affected by cancer, providing practical, medical, emotional and financial support. Working alongside people affected by cancer, Macmillan works to improve cancer care. One in three people will get cancer. Two million people are living with it. Macmillan can help those affected by cancer.

For more information, including cancer fundraising ideas, visit www.macmillan.org.uk or freephone 0808 808 0000 for an information pack.

National Trust welcomes four millionth member family to AGM

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 10:26:06 GMT

National Trust members gathered in Nottingham's Royal Concert Hall for the Annual General Meeting. Cliodhna Giltinan and Frank Allais, along with their daughters Bo (aged six) and Eve (aged eight), were welcomed by Director-General Fiona Reynolds and Chairman Simon Jenkins and received life membership, in celebration of becoming the four millionth family member.

Cliodhna is a teacher from Dublin and Frank is a photographer, originally from France. They live with their children in Hackney, East London. Looking to find out more about the UK and British history, they joined the National Trust. The also use their membership to enjoy great days out as a family. On discovering they were the charity's 4 millionth member, Cliodhna revealed that they were very surprised, saying: "When we received the phone call from the Trust's membership department saying we were the four-millionth members we couldn't quite believe it.

Cliodhna said it was her family's visit to Knole that inspired them to join the National Trust. She remarked that the price of a family membership felt like money well-spent since they would only need to visit a few places per year in order for it to be worthwhile.

This presentation by the Director General and the Trust's Chairman marks the start of the day when official National Trust business is undertaken, with up to 1,000 National Trust members gathered together.

According to Fiona Reynolds, 2011 is a very special year. She said she was delighted to meet Cliodhna and Frank and that she is proud that four million people are members of the National Trust. She explained: I'm proud because it shows the strength of feeling behind our cause. Our mission to look after special places, forever, for everyone is as relevant now as it was 116 years ago when we were founded.

"The support of our members really matters, so I want to say a huge thank you. It's only through their support that we can look after the places in our care for millions more to enjoy. Seventeen million people visited our houses last year and 75 million our coast and countryside.

"People join us for many reasons - a love of their local place, a passion for beauty, for heritage and art, for surfing and cycling, or simply the joy of family time together. What all our members have in common is a love for beautiful and historic places."

National Trust Chairman, Simon Jenkins, shared in the pride of reaching the milestone, but said there's still much more for the charity to do: "Growing from 2.8million members a decade ago to this 4million landmark is amazing - but we know we cannot stand still. We have set ourselves an ambitious target of reaching 5million members by 2020. So, we strive to make the experience our visitors have of our places better and better. And we're constantly seeking new ways to connect people with place - whether through food, or technology, or through becoming more open and involving."

- Ends -

About The National Trust:
The National Trust is involved in the whole food chain, with 200,000 hectares of food producing land, over 150 restaurants and tearooms, and historic kitchen gardens, orchards and mills. The charity has community growing spaces - from allotments to kitchen gardens - at over 50 locations around the country and is increasing these annually. These spaces inspire the Trust's 3.8 million members, 60,000 volunteers and visitors to think and learn about food.

The National Trust is the largest non-governmental landowner in the UK, owning approximately 660,000 acres of the great outdoors across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The National Trust begins search for the nation's favourite walk

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 14:36:54 GMT

The National Trust has launched its search for the nation's favourite National Trust walk, backed by a line-up of celebrities, including the comedian Omid Djalili, the best selling crime-writer Val McDermid and Time Team's archaeologist Francis Pryor.

As part of the National Trust's nationwide Festival of Walking*, which is sponsored by PruHealth, eight celebrity supporters have nominated their favourite routes across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Hoping to inspire everyone whatever their age or ability to get out and explore the amazing outdoor places cared for by the National Trust, the celebrities' walks cover more than 30 miles and range from Adam Hart-Davis' invigorating walk along the Devonshire coastline, Paul Rose's route through the spectacular scenery of the Lake District to some lesser known walks in the gardens and parks cared for by the National Trust.

Avid explorer and presenter, Paul Rose said: "Walking is just so amazingly simple. You need no special equipment, no special training, no special clothes; you just close your front door and go for a walk. It's very easy, just go out and explore.

"Windermere is so accessible, you can just walk a few minutes out of town and yet it has a great sense of true wilderness. It's a beautiful working environment. This is my local connection to nature right here."

In contrast to the dramatic hills and lakes of Windermere, the actress and singer Toyah Willcox chose Capability Brown's sweeping parkland, Croome Park in Worcestershire.

Toyah said: "Croome Park is just absolutely stunning. Worcestershire has beautiful rambling landscapes, gentle rolling hills, it's agricultural land so it's ever-changing and it has a very natural old-world feel about it. Croome is really cleverly designed. You look out across these rolling gentle hills and you see wonderful monuments, follies and statues and the lake in particular is really lovely. You truly feel you own the whole park while you walk around it."

As well as videos of the stars lobbying for their chosen walk the National Trust are encouraging people to submit their own favourites. From October 20th, the public can join the debate online at www.nationaltrust.org.uk./walkingfestival . Everyone who nominates their own favourite will be entered into a prize draw to win National Trust walking boots.

-ENDS-

Notes for editors
* The Festival aims to help people discover more ways to have fun outdoors and get back in touch with nature. From 22nd to 30th October 2011, during the half-term school holidays, more than 1,000 events, including barefoot walks, silly walks and themed walks for all ages will be taking place at National Trust places across the country. There are wildlife walks, heritage walks and more than 800 walking routes available to download from the National Trust website, offering great ideas for a family day out.

To find out more about walking with the National Trust, new walking trails or any of the Festival of Walking events, go to www.nationaltrust.org.uk/walkingfestival

About the National Trust
With more than 250,000 hectares (660,000 acres) of countryside and 710 miles of coastline across England, Wales and Northern Ireland there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors with the National Trust.

The National Trust cares for 300 inspiring historic houses and gardens across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. From former workers' cottages to the most iconic stately homes, and from mines and mills to theatres and inns, the stories of people and their heritage are at the heart of everything it does. People of all ages, individuals, schools and communities get involved each year with its projects, events and working holidays and over 61,000 volunteers help to bring the properties alive for the Trust's 4 million members. Find out more at ww.nationaltrust.org.uk.

Debenhams donates staff hours to help independent shops recover

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 10:00:56 GMT

Debenhams Battersea, which was looted during the recent London riots, is to donate a 'working week' of hours to the local community, seconding staff to help smaller, independent stores recover.

Despite the damage that was done, Debenhams Battersea was open again just three days after the events of Monday 8th August. Staff worked alongside local residents to clean up and get the store trading as soon as possible.

Unfortunately, other stores in the area have not been so lucky and are still boarded up without stock to sell or even shelving and display units to put it on.

As such, 35 hours of Debenhams' staff time has been made available for a month to those businesses that could benefit from the manpower and retail knowledge on offer.

Debenhams Battersea store manager, Neil Roberts, said: "In the spirit of the kindness shown to us by the people of Clapham and Battersea, we would like to give something back to the community.

"Practical support from all areas of our business is available to local, independent shops and businesses that need a helping hand to get back up and running."

Lorinda Freint, Clapham Junction town centre manager added: "Debenhams is an important anchor store in the town centre.

"The Clapham Junction Town Centre Partnership is delighted with the on-going support it gives small businesses in helping them get back on their feet."

Local businesses are invited to contact Julian Paine, Debenhams Battersea's technical services manager to ask for assistance. Help is available from the store's maintenance team, cleaning, loss prevention, visual merchandise, sales and management.

Debenhams' Neil Roberts concluded: "The Battersea store staff are incredibly enthusiastic about getting out into the local community to support our neighbours.

"We urge local businesses to come to Debenhams and let us know what they need."

ENDS

About Debenhams:
Debenhams is the second largest department store chain in the UK with a strong presence in key product categories including womens clothing, mens clothing, childrenswear, furniture and health and beauty. Debenhams operates 167 stores in the UK and Republic of Ireland. Debenhams also has 61 international franchise stores in 24 countries and six Magasin stores in Denmark.

Designers at Debenhams include Preen, Jonathan Saunders, Jonathan Kelsey, Roksanda Ilincic, Ted Baker, Jeff Banks, Jasper Conran, Erickson Beamon, FrostFrench, Henry Holland, Betty Jackson, Ben de Lisi, Julien Macdonald, Melissa Odabash, Jane Packer, Pearce Fionda, Janet Reger, John Rocha, Lisa Stickley, Eric Van Peterson and Matthew Williamson.

PR Contact:
Press Office
33 Wigmore Street
London
W1U 1QX
08445 616161
www.debenhams.com

National Trust says 'take the right bite' this Autumn

Tue, 13 Sep 2011 14:49:16 GMT

The National Trust has revealed that despite the UK being a nation of apple lovers, the majority of Britons cannot identify home grown varieties. The charity is urging people to 'take the right bite' this Autumn to make the most of the unique British flavours available and help save UK orchards.

Research* shows that although more than half of respondents (53 per cent) crunch into an apple each week, and almost a quarter (24 per cent) of Britons who eat apples enjoy eating apples because they can buy home grown varieties, 41 per cent of people who eat apples find it difficult to pick out British grown apples.

While British grown varieties such as the Bramley, Cox Orange Pippin and Egremont Russet are recognised by some apple eaters, 61 per cent of adults wrongly guessed that the Granny Smith is grown in the UK when it originates from Australia. Similarly, almost a quarter of people (23 per cent) thought that the Pink Lady is grown in the UK.

As part of its Food Glorious Food campaign, the National Trust has launched its guide 'How to eat an apple' to encourage people to buy British grown apples and help ensure the UK's apple heritage is preserved.

Fiona Reynolds, Director General at the National Trust said: "British apples are now being harvested and we're spoilt for choice with local flavours. Whether it's the rich, sweet Cox, or the nutty Egremont Russet we urge everyone to choose and enjoy home grown varieties throughout the day. We need more people to choose British and help protect our orchards. 70 per cent of apples bought in the UK are imported** and this must change."

The survey showed that 68 per cent of people who eat apples enjoy eating them for their juicy, crunchy texture and 40 per cent for their convenience, with nine per cent even going as far as eating the core. Yet 25 per cent of adults are put off apples by them turning brown as they start to eat the flesh and a quarter (25 per cent) of 18-24 year olds do not eat apples at all.

Rachel Brewer, Pommelier for the National Trust, said: "It's been another fantastic year for apples, all thanks to our unusually hot Spring, which has meant apple blossom has been able to set earlier. There's such a variety of UK apples ready for picking at the moment; Early Worcester, is a great eating apple and Tom Putt, perfect for cider, but also a very good juice apple too. My favourite is the Ten Commandments, a bright red, really sweet apple which goes brilliantly with blue cheese and port."

Masterchef co-presenter and apple fan, Gregg Wallace says: "There are hundreds of apple varieties on these beautiful islands of ours, all colours, all shapes, and many flavours. Nothing but an apple has the unique combination of soft sweetness, refreshing acidity and crunch."

- Ends -

Notes to editors
* Research: All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 2000 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between1 to 4 July 2011. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all GB adults (aged 18+).
** Figure from Campaign for Real Farming: www.campaignforrealfarming.org/2010/06/community-orchards/

About The National Trust:
The National Trust is the largest non-governmental landowner in the UK, owning approximately 250,000 hectares (660,000 acres) of the great outdoors across England, Wales and Northern Ireland and offers many ideas for days out.

The National Trust also offers a number of ideas for days out, with the charity caring for over 300 of England, Wales and Northern Ireland's greatest historic houses and gardens, 1,000 km of coastline and vast swathes of the country's most beautiful countryside.

Oxfam to Receive 400,000 Clothes on One Day Encouraged by Fashion Icon Twiggy

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 12:16:29 GMT

Fashion icon Twiggy is calling on Marks & Spencer customers to support Oxfam by clearing out their wardrobes this week.

On Thursday 8th September, 370 M&S stores up and down the country will be hosting a special One Day Wardrobe Clearout event, accepting unwanted clothing and accessories that will be resold or recycled by Oxfam. The event will help Oxfam raise crucial funds and prevent clothing from going to landfill.

The national campaign has the backing of the face of M&S Woman and international icon Twiggy, who is encouraging customers to get involved. Twiggy commented: “We’re all guilty of hoarding clothes away that we no longer wear. This is a great way to rediscover those hidden treasures at the back of your wardrobe and donate any unwanted or unused pieces to Oxfam.”

The clearout event rewards customers donating clothes and accessories with a £5 money off voucher when they spend £35 on fashion in store, redeemable until 30th September. Thursday’s event is part of the year-round award winning M&S and Oxfam Clothes Exchange.*

For the first time generous customers will be able to see exactly how their much needed donations are helping, through a brand new interactive online tool, “You Give, Oxfam Gets” at www.marksandspencer.com/PlanA.

Customers are able to virtually dress a mannequin with clothes and accessories to see how much their donations could raise for Oxfam and how the vital funds could be used to make a difference. A customer donating:
- A dress could raise £9 for Oxfam – enough to help improve the prospects and living conditions of a young person in Nairobi by helping them to work in and run a recycling centre.
- A clutch bag could raise £8 for Oxfam – enough to help livelihoods in Bangladesh flourish by providing three fruit or tree saplings.
- A man’s suit could raise £20 for Oxfam – enough to supply three families food for ten days during an emergency by providing basic food rations or cash vouchers to buy it.

Richard Gillies, Director of Plan A, CSR and Sustainable Business at M&S, said: “By clearing out your wardrobe and simply dropping off your unwanted clothes and accessories at our stores, you can help the environment and help Oxfam save lives. We’re asking our customers to donate 400,000 items of clothing: an easy way to make a difference and save money on this season’s latest collections with a great M&S money-off voucher.”

Oxfam’s Director of Trading David McCullough said: “Every single donated item, from clothing to accessories, really does make a difference in helping Oxfam to overcome poverty and suffering around the world. And for those who may miss out on the wardrobe clearout day, you can still donate your unwanted M&S clothing to any Oxfam shop, any day of the year - and get a voucher to spend at M&S too.”

For more information visit: www.marksandspencer.com/PlanA or www.oxfam.org.uk/MandS.

Oxfam Launches the Fifth Year of the UK's Biggest Charity Music Festivals

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 09:55:35 GMT

A diverse range of the biggest names in music, including DJ legend Fatboy Slim, indie icon Brett Anderson, Mercury Prize nominee Ghostpoet and former Busted star Charlie Simpson will perform their most unusual shows to date – inside an Oxfam shop – to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the Oxjam music festival.

A London Oxfam shop will stage a series of exclusive, intimate performances among the books and clothing on the shop floor itself to launch the fifth edition of the charity’s month-long Oxjam music festival.

The confirmed lineup so far, with more to be added, is:
Monday 26 Sept: Fatboy Slim, Kissy Sell Out, Man Like Me
Tuesday 27 Sept: Brett Anderson (Suede), Patrick Wolf, Ghostpoet
Wednesday 28 Sept: Charlie Simpson plus more TBA
Thursday 29 Sept: DRC Music album launch feat. Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs, Richard Russell (XL Records), Kwes (Warp Records) and more.

The Thursday night show will help celebrate the release of Kinshasa One Two, an album by DRC Music, which was recently recorded in the Democratic Republic of Congo to raise money for Oxfam.

The Oxfam shop in London, whose location will be revealed the week before the shows, will become an Oxjam shop for the week, selling the best second-hand music in the city during the day. During the evening, it will be converted into a gig venue, playing host to these intimate performances in front of a just a handful of fans lucky enough to get their hands on a ticket.

Tickets to the shows cost just £25 per night for Monday to Wednesday and £20 for Thursday’s show, and will go on sale from 5th September exclusively from www.wegottickets.com/oxjam. Tickets for these exclusive one-off performances will raise money for Oxfam’s lifesaving work around the world.

Fatboy Slim (Norman Cook), who returns to play the charity shop shows after performing in the first year, said: “The reason I’ve been involved with Oxjam in previous years is that, as well as being one of the highlights of my DJing calendar, I see it as the best way for people to use their love of music to help a really worthwhile charity like Oxfam. I’m delighted to be joining in the fifth birthday celebrations this year, and I hope that budding DJs all around the country will also be using their decks and records to help fight poverty in October.”

Brett Anderson said: “In the early nineties, Suede bought most of their clothes in Oxfam shops. It was always somewhere you could find cheap, interesting old things that no-one else had and for a few years it pretty much defined our style, so I feel a massive sense of homecoming with the Oxjam gig. The Oxfam shop is a great British institution that no high street should be without, and the Oxjam gigs are an extension of this blend of philanthropy and off-beat style. Even better, the shop gigs are only the beginning of Oxjam, a whole month of music raising money to help Oxfam keep saving lives and making a difference all over the world.”

The charity shop gigs officially launch the Oxjam month of music, which runs through the whole of October. During October, more than 800 venues, 11,000 volunteers, 9,000 bands and musicians and more than 200,000 audience members will enable Oxjam to raise at least £350,000 to help Oxfam fight poverty. Oxjam is a festival with a difference: hundreds of fundraising music events are put on by ordinary people – from large-scale festivals to local sponsored busks – making it the biggest line-up of any music festival in the UK.

The highlight of the month-long festival will be the Oxjam Takeover, a series of city-wide mini-festivals taking place in 33 locations across the UK, from Aberdeen to Bournemouth, on the weekend of 22 and 23 October. During a single weekend, around 3,000 musicians will perform to an audience of more than 35,000, all raising money to help Oxfam fight poverty worldwide.

Previous artists who have performed the Oxfam shop gigs in the last couple of years include Jarvis Cocker, Diana Vickers, Johnny Borrell, The Charlatans, Editors, The Kooks, Hot Chip, Jamelia, VV Brown and Basement Jaxx.

Since 2006, more than 40,000 musicians have played to an audience of more than 800,000 people at over 3,000 Oxjam events, raising in excess of £1.5 million to fight poverty around the world. Oxjam 2011 is expected to take the total past £1.8 million, enough to buy safe water for 2 million people, 900,000 bags of seeds or 72,000 goats.

To find out what Oxjam events are going on in your area this October, visit www.oxfam.org.uk/oxjam or call 0300 200 1255.

National Trust announces survey of spectacular tree avenues

Mon, 22 Aug 2011 16:14:07 GMT

National Trust has announced a three year survey that will reveal the full extent, condition and stories behind the spectacular tree avenues cared for by the conservation charity.

There are an estimated 500 tree avenues on National Trust land stretching hundreds of miles which were historically planted to frame a particular view and are also now an important habitat for fungi, beetles, bats and lichens and forming natural wildlife corridors in the countryside.

The survey is the first of its kind in the world and as a result the Trust, as the largest individual owner of tree avenues in the world, will be better able to prioritise funding for their care as well as bringing together for the first time all of the fascinating stories behind the wealth of avenues.

Brian Muelaner, National Trust Ancient Tree Advisor, said: "Tree avenues are the perfect example of man and nature working in harmony. This new survey will give us the opportunity to understand more about these spectacular natural monuments which are rooted in the history of the places they appear.

"Historic tree avenues were great vanity projects for many wealthy landowners and there are some fantastic stories behind those in our care, so it's especially important that we capture all of this information in order to keep telling these stories for generations to come.

"Many of our tree avenues are under threat from different diseases so this survey will pinpoint where the issues are and help us decide how we can address them. We have an extensive tree safety management programme which assesses the risk of individual trees but avenues as a whole are not currently taken into consideration."

With more than 25,000 hectares of woodland, 200,000 hectares of farmland and 135 landscape and deer parks in National Trust care, more than 20,000 individual trees, equivalent to the size of 500 football pitches, are expected to be surveyed over the duration of the project.

Notable examples of tree avenues at Trust places include the Spanish Chestnuts at Croft Castle in Herefordshire, planted using the seeds from the Spanish Armada wrecks in 1592; the 731 trees in the Beech Avenue of the Kingston Lacy Estate in Dorset, which were an extravagant gift from Dorset aristocrat William John Bankes to his mother Frances and the Lime Tree Avenue at Clumber Park in Nottinghamshire. This is the longest such avenue in Europe with 1,296 trees (2 miles) planted in a double row on each side by the 4th Duke of Newcastle.

Brian Muelaner added: "A tree avenue is a natural picture frame and there is nothing quite like walking along one as a magnificent building or spectacular landscape comes into view and the image is captured in your mind's eye."

Two years ago the National Trust launched a project to survey all the ancient trees in its care. Almost half of the Trust's properties have staff trained in surveying and 20,000 trees have so far been recorded.

The work of the Ancient Tree Advisor and the survey of tree avenues on National Trust land has been made possible with the support of Cadbury.

-ENDS-

Notes to editors:
The National Trust is the largest non-governmental landowner in the UK, owning approximately 250,000 hectares (660,000 acres) of land across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The National Trust manages hundreds of woods covering 25,000 hectares (61,776 acres) in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, including both some of the oldest woodland in the UK and, in some places, commercial conifer plantations which were established only during the twentieth century.

The National Trust is one of the most important nature conservation charities in Europe, offering a number of places to visit in the UK, including days out in Dorset.

npower employee takes to his bike in support of Macmillan Cancer Support

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 15:04:33 GMT

Npower employee Steven Jones and his friend Rob Smart, both 26 years old and from Stourbridge, have eschewed the idea of a local bike ride for charity; instead, they have entered the London to Paris bike ride in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support. They will be covering 300 miles - or 470km - in just four days, starting from St Pancras station on August 17 and finishing up at the foot of the Eiffel Tower on August 20.

Steve, who works for npower and Rob, who works for Structural Design Partnership Ltd, have been friends since before they could walk, let alone ride a bike. They both attended Greenfield Primary School and then Redhill Secondary; both have done some road cycling in the past, but nothing on the scale of their forthcoming challenge. Steve is a keen downhill mountain biker, and Rob a regular cross country cyclist but London to Paris, a long distance road challenge, is completely different. Both friends have been in training for some time and can now cope with cycling around 150 miles a week.

They aim to raise at least £1,400 each for Macmillan. Steve explained: "This year is Macmillan's Centenary and, speaking with friends and family, everyone has a story to tell of how Macmillan has helped someone they know. Macmillan wouldn’t be able to do the great work that they do without regular financial support - we were looking for a challenge, Macmillan is an incredibly worthy cause; it seemed like an excellent match."

Up until now, they have been riding their off-road bikes but, following a practice ride on the MacRide Elgar, when they borrowed road bikes and found the whole experience faster, easier and more comfortable they are looking to buy road bikes in time for the event.

As an extra incentive, npower, has promised to match Steve’s fundraising, up to £1,000. The fundraising is on track and anyone who is willing to sponsor the dynamic duo should go to www.justgiving.com/teams/london2paris.

About npower
npower is one of Britain's largest electricity suppliers and supplies gas, electricity and related services to 6.6 million customers across the UK.

npower has been awarded platinum status in Business in the Community’s CR Index and is one of twenty-nine companies to have achieved the CommunityMark since its launch. All CommunityMark achievers have been recognised for demonstrating excellence in their holistic and strategic approach to community investment.

About Macmillan Cancer Support:
Macmillan Cancer Support improves the lives of people affected by cancer, providing practical, medical, emotional and financial support. Working alongside people affected by cancer, Macmillan works to improve cancer care. One in three of us will get cancer. Two million of us are living with and beyond cancer. If you are affected by cancer, Macmillan can help.

If you’re living with cancer, the good days really matter. Macmillan is there to help you have more good days. For answers, support or just a chat, visit www.macmillan.org.uk or call Macmillan on 0808 808 00 00 - no matter what your question.

TV favourite Jo Brand puts her best foot forward for Macmillan Cancer Support

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 15:21:54 GMT

Britain's best-loved comedienne and TV favourite Jo Brand has joined forces with her co-star Joanna Scanlan and director Peter Capaldi, for a brand new comedy film (54 seconds) to launch Macmillan Cancer Support's new 'Move More' campaign.

The film sees Jo Brand running around South London, in what looks like some hardcore marathon training. She eventually runs into her kitchen with Joanna Scanlan and produces a pint of milk; it then becomes clear she only ran to the corner shop.

Renowned actor and director, Peter Capaldi, joined the funny twosome, and provided the voiceover for the film reuniting him with the two lead stars of his Bafta award winning nursing comedy, 'Getting On'.

Jo Brand said: "People will look at me and go, 'why's that fat, unfit, menopausal, middle-aged woman telling us what to do? She surely never takes any exercise.' Well you're wrong there, because I do.

"I'm just trying to spread the word and upturn the myth that actually you should be resting after cancer treatment. You shouldn't, you should be getting out and doing any kind of exercise you can. You don’t have to run a marathon, but you just have to up your activity levels."

As part of the 'Move More' campaign, Macmillan Cancer Support is publishing startling new research that shows health professionals are not telling cancer patients about the many benefits of physical activity post-treatment. Doing enough physical activity after cancer reduces effects of treatment and can even reduce the risk of mortality and recurrence.

A free 'getting started' pack to help ease people into physical activity after cancer treatment, including a seed pack from The National Gardens Scheme, to encourage gardening as a way to get active, is now available from www.macmillan.org.uk/movemore. Those affected by the disease can also interact with the online cancer community on the Macmillan website.

The film and the behind the scenes film can be viewed at www.macmillan.org.uk/movemore and youtube.com/macmillancancer.

- Ends -

Notes to Editors:

Corporate support for the campaign:
The National Gardens Scheme (NGS) and their president Joe Swift are supporting the 'Move More' campaign by encouraging people to get gardening for the benefit of their health. Gardening is a great way to get active and an excellent way to improve strength, endurance, mobility and flexibility, with a range of activities to suit all ages, abilities, energy levels and gardens.

As part of a long-term partnership, Boots UK is supporting Macmillan's physical activity campaign by encouraging customers to get active. In all of its 2,500 stores from 10 August until 6 September 2011, customers can pick up a leaflet highlighting the benefits of physical activity when going through cancer. This will sit alongside a leaflet encouraging people to get active and raise money for Macmillan. This is part of its Miles for Macmillan activity - to clock up 290,000 miles, one mile for each person diagnosed with cancer every year in the UK. During this time, there will also be in store brand presence and a 5p donation being made to Macmillan for purchases of selected toiletries.

About Macmillan Cancer Support:
Macmillan Cancer Support improves the lives of people affected by cancer, providing practical, medical, emotional and financial support. Working alongside people affected by cancer, Macmillan works to improve cancer care. One in three people will get cancer. Two million people are living with it. Macmillan can help those affected by cancer.

For more information, including charity fundraising ideas, interested parties can visit www.macmillan.org.uk or freephone 0808 808 0000 for an information pack.

Oxfam announces Celtic vs. Manchester Utd all-star match to raise funds for their East Africa food crisis appeal

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 15:04:21 GMT

Oxfam’s East Africa famine appeal announced as main beneficiary of The Legends Celtic vs Manchester United as line up swells to include Man U legend Roy Keane

The drought in this area has already caused devastation and was officially declared a famine in two regions of Somalia by the United Nations on Wednesday 20th July 2011.

Celtic Charity Fund has taken the decision to make Oxfam’s East Africa Famine Appeal the event’s main charitable beneficiary of the event. With ITV broadcasting the match live from Celtic Park stars from football and entertainment will be out in force at Celtic Park to back the campaign.

Judith Robertson, Head of Oxfam Scotland, said: “East Africa is facing the worst food crisis seen anywhere in the world for many years - almost 12 million people are at risk right now. Oxfam is there, and we’re already making a huge difference, but we need fans of Celtic, Manchester United and football fans across the world to rally together and help us to do even more.

“The Legends Celtic vs. Manchester United match is going to be an incredible night, and it’s fantastic to see so many players - past and present - and famous fans getting involved. Thanks to them, and the support of the fans, every minute of the match will help us raise money to save lives across Kenya, Ethiopia and Somalia.”

Legends of both clubs and the entertainment world will be taking part in the match. Already confirmed are players such as Henrik Larsson, Chris Sutton, Dwight Yorke, Gordon Strachan, Patrick Kielty, Richard Ashcroft, Ricky Hatton, Nigel Benn, Angus Deayton, Ricky Whittle and Nicky Byrne. Billy Connolly, the Patron of the Celtic Foundation will be at Celtic Park on the night, and a host of other confirmed as lending support to the event and the fundraising effort are Wayne Rooney, Rod Stewart, Eddie Jordan, Sharleen Spiteri, Dougray Scott and Paolo Nutini.

The line up has swelled further this week with the addition of Manchester United hero Roy Keane. For Keane who made 326 appearances for Man U scoring 33 goals the return to Celtic Park will bring back memories of his final season as a player. He returns to Celtic on the eve of his 40th birthday and will surely be looking for a victory to put the icing on his celebrations. The former Ireland international played 10 times for Celtic FC in the 2005/2006 season before retiring on medical grounds.

Truly deserving of his place in The Legends, Alex Ferguson has said of Keane: “Over the years when they start picking the best teams of all time, he will be in there.”

Exec producer Lester Holcombe said: “We’re absolutely delighted to have secured Roy to play. For many of the fans he’s the greatest midfielder that Man U ever had. He never took any prisoners and we’re fully expecting him to bring that same competitive edge to this game.”

Celtic manager Neil Lennon said: “This is a great cause and one we should all support. The charitable spirit and generosity of our supporters is well known and we’re sure our fans will once again lend their backing to support the many thousands of people in Africa who need our help.

“The images from Africa which we are seeing daily are heart-breaking and this is a cause everyone at the Club is fully behind. It’s fantastic that so many people are committing their time and support to this event. We’re sure the evening will be a great success and we look forward to welcoming as many supporters as possible.

Peter Lawwell, chief executive of the club, said: “We will be hoping to do all we can to raise as much as possible for this cause. We thank everyone involved taking part and all our fans for their support as we aim to make a difference.”

The match is the 9th game produced by the Legends for live broadcast in the UK and internationally. These matches have raised hundreds of thousands for charity and are watched by millions of people worldwide.

Tickets are now on general sale priced £10 Adult and £5 Concession. Call 0871 226 1888 or visit the Celtic Ticket Office.

The Oxfam East Africa food crisis appeal

Almost 12 million people are fighting for their lives now because of a severe drought that’s hit parts of Kenya, Ethiopia and Somalia and other countries in the region. Poor rains have left some parts of the region suffering the driest year in six decades. Two regions of Somalia have now been declared to be suffering from the first famine of the 21st century. Tens of thousands of lives have already been lost and we need to act now to stop even greater massive loss of life. Hundreds of thousands of livestock have died, there are alarming levels of malnutrition, and the price of water and food is rising because of sudden acute shortages.

Two successive poor rains, entrenched poverty, conflict and lack of investment has left East Africa in the worst regional food crisis of the 21st century. Parts of northern Kenya are suffering the driest year in six decades, and two regions of Somalia have now been declared to be suffering the first famine since the 1990s. The next rains are not until October - which even then is not guaranteed - and the crisis is certain to worsen over the coming months, with the impacts likely to be felt until at least the end of 2011.

Oxfam is appealing for £50m in order to reach 3 million people with clean water, food and basic sanitation. We are already helping many hundred thousand people with aid: cash to buy food, drilling boreholes, cleaning and rehabilitating existing water supply points, providing safe sanitation and health promotion, vaccinating livestock. Oxfam is providing both emergency aid to save lives now, and long term development to help communities in increasingly drought-prone regions cope. We are also appealing to governments and others to do more.

Celtic Charity Fund

Celtic Charity Fund was formed in 1995 and operates as a charitable trust, aiming to uphold and promote the charitable principles and heritage of Celtic Football Club through raising funds and supporting specific areas of charity work. Since inception, the Fund has raised around £3.5m to support charities in Scotland, Ireland and across the globe on behalf of the glorious Celtic Family.

Further information on Celtic Charity Fund and our activities can be found at www.celticfc.net (click on the ‘Club’ tab) or contact Jane Maguire on 0141 551 4262 or janemaguire@celticfc.co.uk

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National Trust welcomes four millionth member family to AGM

The National Trust begins search for the nation's favourite walk

Debenhams donates staff hours to help independent shops recover

National Trust says 'take the right bite' this Autumn

Oxfam to Receive 400,000 Clothes on One Day Encouraged by Fashion Icon Twiggy

Oxfam Launches the Fifth Year of the UK's Biggest Charity Music Festivals

National Trust announces survey of spectacular tree avenues

npower employee takes to his bike in support of Macmillan Cancer Support

TV favourite Jo Brand puts her best foot forward for Macmillan Cancer Support

Oxfam announces Celtic vs. Manchester Utd all-star match to raise funds for their East Africa food crisis appeal