Tabla de contenidos para May 2024 en Prima UK

I’m not sure what the record is for the UK’s oldest paperboy, but there’s a lovely gentleman in our village called Paul, who I saw the other day at our local shop. I’d called in to collect my newspaper and he told me it was his birthday. ‘I’m 74,’ he said, proudly, ‘and I still deliver the newspapers.’ It certainly took me by surprise, as he looks years younger, and delivering newspapers round a country village, with all its hills and tricky paths, is no mean feat. I left the shop not only wishing him a happy birthday but thinking there really must be something in keeping as fit as you can for as long as you can. It certainly inspired me to take note of our Jump Into Spring…

‘If you’d told me, in the darkest weeks and months that followed my partner’s death in June 2021, that a lump of clay would help save me from my grief and despair, I never would have believed it. Yet creating pottery, and finding myself part of a community with a shared passion for it, has proved to be as therapeutic as any counselling I’ve had. Matthew and I had been together for 22 years when he took his own life due to mental health issues. He was a wonderful man, very gentle and kind. We didn’t have children; it was just the two of us, and having been with him most of my adult years, the idea of living life without him by my side was impossible to comprehend. Matthew’s…

Tracing a family tree is a popular hobby, but the names on a page can only ever tell part of the story. Two women who help others piece together life stories explain how precious those personal memories can be ‘Listening to 82-year-old Bronwen recounting her day-to-day life living in a suburb of Shrewsbury gave me a wonderful window into a different era. From growing up with her parents during the Second World War, through school, jobs, marriage and children, Bronwen painted a vivid picture of a time that might otherwise have been lost. Her daughter, who’d commissioned me to turn her mum’s experiences into a book, said it changed how Bronwen saw her life. From thinking she hadn’t been anywhere or done anything, Bronwen realised how her life was actually…

1 DISCONNECT. Avoid staying friends with your ex, at least in the short term while you recover and regain your equilibrium. Delete pictures and phone numbers, move out, unfollow and unfriend them if you have no reason to connect, such as children. If you do have children, minimise contact and only keep essential connections. 2 FOCUS ALL THAT BREAKUP ENERGY ON YOURSELF. Go on that holiday you always wanted to go on, start a health and fitness journey or work on the book you’ve been meaning to write. Focusing on self-care or chasing dreams can provide you with a powerful source of healing and positive energy. 3 JOURNAL ALL THE LESSONS YOU’VE LEARNED. Relationships and breakups are lessons and can teach us so much about ourselves and our needs, wants…

Spectacular concerts Pack a picnic, chill the fizz and join the Battle Proms for unforgettable concerts in stunning locations! Enjoy uplifting classical music, vintage vocals, dramatic Spitfire, cavalry and parachute displays, plus 200 live cannons accompanying Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture and Beethoven’s Battle Symphony! We have five family passes (two adults and two children) worth £164 to be won and our first lucky winner will also enjoy a Battle Proms Overture Picnic for two with wine, worth £69.95. Visit battleproms.com. Enter for free online at prima.co.uk/treatsmay24. Call 0905 789 1009 (80p per min plus your network access charge)*. Text PRIMACOMP1 to 88833 (£1.50 plus your network charge)**. Leave your name and address when entering. Super floor cleaner Make life easier, and vacuum, clean and dry floors with the All in One…

I believe we’re all musicologists in our own way. We know which songs lift us up and which make us feel melancholy. But through my studies, I not only look at which songs affect us the most, but why. Here are the reasons why some classic songs have such stirring results… THE FLOWER DUET The song from the British Airways adverts, composed by Delibes for his opera Lakmé, has beautifully constructed harmonies and oozes dignity and grace. The words speak of jasmine and roses intertwining, and when the song is performed, the aim is for the two voices to emulate this delicate combination. The small lifts at the ends of the phrases give the song a lightness that emulates a floating feather (or, as BA would probably prefer, a jumbo…

Remember exercise will improve your whole day. We all have days when we can’t be bothered to get up and run, but by motivating yourself to get out there, you’ll feel empowered, energised and ready to take on the day. Be accountable. Get in touch with a friend who’s also a runner. Tell them your fitness goals for the week and check in when you’ve done them. See it as ‘me-time’. Running kills two birds with one stone – it’s exercise and me-time. I listen to a podcast or an audiobook as I go. Put it in your diary. To make it fit into your week, you have to schedule exercise like a work meeting. I juggle it around my Smooth Radio show, my daughter – who’s the most sociable…

TICKETS INCLUDE: * WELCOME DRINKS, followed by a Q&A with Gaby Roslin and Prima editor-in-chief Jo Checkley. * A SUMPTUOUS LUNCH in Heythrop Park’s beautiful Market Kitchen. * A CRAFTING WORKSHOP led by craft expert Momtaz Begum-Hossain. * A CHOICE OF AFTERNOON ACTIVITIES, including a reiki workshop, estate tour or birds of prey experience. * A GOODIE BAG filled with treats to take home. Book your tickets today at primacrafternoon.eventbrite.co.uk…

Measurements Age: 3/4(5/6:7/8:9/10:11/12:13/14). To fit chest: 59(64:67:71:77:81)cm. Actual chest: 68(74:77:81:86:90)cm. Length (approximately): 35(37:39:43:46:50)cm. Sleeve length: 27(29:32:35:38:41)cm. Materials • 1 x 100g ball Prima DK Acrylic Wool each in Red (A), Pure White (B), Slate Grey (C), Royal Blue (D) and Mustard (E). • Pair each of 3.25mm and 4mm straight needles. • 4 stitch markers. • 2 stitch holders. Tension 22 sts and 30 rows to 10cm square over stocking stitch using 4mm needles. Abbreviations beg beginning; cm centimetre; cont continue; g gram; k knit; m1 make 1 stitch; mm millimetre; p purl; rep repeat; RS right side; ssk slip 2 stitches knitwise, knit these 2 stitches together through back loops (single left-leaning decrease); st(s) stitch(es); st st stocking stitch; tbl through back loop; tog together; WS wrong side; […

All the greens pad Thai These simple noodles are a delicious way to pack more vegetables into your day. In the summer, you should be able to find UK-grown green beans, asparagus, courgettes, pak choi and a ton of other green veg. Whatever you choose, just make sure you have about 200g veggies per person. SERVES 4 READY IN 40min FOR THE SAUCE • 3tbsp fish sauce, or vegan ‘fish’ sauce• 1tbsp soy sauce• 2tbsp brown sugar• 1tbsp tamarind paste• 100ml hot vegetable stock• Pinch dried chilli flakes FOR THE NOODLES • 200g dried pad Thai noodles• 2tbsp sesame oil• 800g fresh green vegetables, such as 2 pak choi, each cut lengthways into 8 pieces; 3-4 spring onions, roughly chopped; handful asparagus spears, halved widthways and lengthways; generous handful Tenderstem…

FIND THE GAP Identify where the draught is – would thick or thermal-lined curtains stop the draught? If not, try this. BUY STRIPS Once you’ve decided which windows to treat, you have the choice of either buying self-adhesive foam strips or spending a little more on plastic or metal strips. TRIM TO SIZE Self-adhesive foam strips are quick and easy to install. You can cut to size and firmly press around the edge of your window to get an adjustable and flexible seal. Alternatively, a ‘brush strip’, which is a little more expensive, can also be applied to the joins of your window or door to reduce air infiltration. GO ONE STEP FURTHER Another alternative is to use a ‘secondary glazing kit’ or ‘window film’, which seals the edges of…

TAPE UP Stick a piece of masking tape across the back of your picture over where the hooks are. With a pencil, mark where those hooks are on the tape. GET MEASURING You want a gap of around 20cm minimum from the ceiling. Using a tape measure, plot the distance between the tape and the top of the frame, then add 20cm to this measurement. Next, measure from the ceiling to that measurement and put your marked tape on the wall. PIPE CHECK Check for any wires or pipes behind your wall before starting any activity. You can do this with an electric wire detector from Amazon or any hardware store. WHAT’S THE WEIGHT? The weight of your picture will depend on the fixings you’re able to use. If your…

CHECK THE FITTING The fitting at the back of the mirror and its weight will affect the type of wall fixing you use. Lightweight mirrors could use Command strips, for example, while heavier options will need D-rings, French cleats, glue, wires and/or clips. Use a tape measure to mark the distance between fittings. HAVE A SMALL MIRROR? On the wall, use a tape measure/spirit level to mark the points where your screws or nails will go. Then use a hammer/screwdriver to put them in and you’re done! HAVE A BIG MIRROR? Find where you would like to hang your mirror. Use a stud finder and pencil to locate and mark the position of the wall studs. Use a spirit level to make sure the marks are level. ADJUST IF NECESSARY…

LAY OUT THE TILES Do so in your chosen pattern, so you’ll see where any gaps are or smaller pieces are needed. LINE UP Before you start tiling, use a spirit level to mark out a horizontal and vertical ‘plumb line’. Measure out and start tiling from the centre of the splashback for an even, symmetrical look. WORK BOTTOM UP Apply tile adhesive to the wall and start with a small area first, using a notched trowel and making sure the notches are all in the same direction. Push your tiles into the adhesive and use a tile spacer on every edge of each tile, including between tiles and worktop. TILE CUTTER When you need to work around plug sockets, you’ll need a tile cutter. A wet tile cutter will…

✓ ASK AN EXPERT Choosing a suitable cruise can seem daunting. Travel agents play a vital role in the holiday experience, matching the customer with the right cruise line, ship and itinerary. They also work with a variety of lines – and often travel with those operators – so they can offer personal and professional insights into different cabins, destinations, excursions and more, as well as on other issues such as travel insurance. A good source is cruising.org/en-gb/find-a-travel-agent. ✓ GET TO KNOW YOUR SHIP Don’t wait to set sail to start exploring. Before leaving home, you can learn about your ship and all it has to offer, such as its dining options, activities, classes and lounge areas. With the Princess app, for example, you can even book dinner at speciality…

1 BOOK EARLY If you have your heart set on a specific ship, itinerary or cabin, then booking early will give you a better chance to obtain lower prices. In fact, early-bird prices can be up to 50% less. 2 BOOK AN INSIDE CABIN Think about how much time you’ll spend in your cabin. If a sea view isn’t important, as the main purpose of your cabin is for sleeping, choose an inside cabin or one with an obstructed view, as this will take a considerable amount off the price. 3 BOOK A GUARANTEED CABIN This is one that is booked without being specifically allocated. Your cabin will be confirmed shortly prior to the cruise and its position and deck number chosen for you. If you’re happy to book on…

Five Bad Deeds by Caz Frear (Simon & Schuster, £16.99) Caz returns with a thriller that has been snapped up for TV. Ellen has done something bad but doesn’t know exactly what, and the ominous letter she receives in the post may be the thing that exposes her. 11 April The Household by Stacey Halls (Manilla Press, £16.99) Inspired by real people who resided at Charles Dickens’ home for fallen women. Elegant prose keeps the reader enthralled in this tale by the author of Mrs England and The Familiars. 11 April My Favourite Mistake by Marian Keyes (Michael Joseph, £22) Anna packs in her swanky New York job and heads back to Ireland to a PR role. But running away doesn’t mean your mistakes disappear. Is it time for Anna to confront her…

THE MOON & YOU Every New Moon is a great time to set new intentions, but this one on 8 May at 4.21am is extra good. Quantum leaps – when you wish your way from one way of life to another – are possible now. The Full Moon is on 23 May at 2.54pm STAR OF THE MONTH TAURUS 21 April to 21 May Do you want the good news or the not-so-good news? The not-so-good news is that, as of this month, the lucky planet Jupiter is leaving your sign. Hopefully, the last 12 months have been ‘freeing’ for you, one way or another. The good news is the lucky planet is now moving into your Money Box, meaning your cash flow should get a boost. GEMINI 22 May…

‘Laughing as the clay spun out of control on the wheel, my hands muddy and my heart full, I felt so glad I’d signed up to this pottery class with my dear friend Jilly. Having being diagnosed with breast cancer in late 2020, plus juggling a busy career with motherhood, I was ready to prioritise some time for myself. After surgery, I had radiotherapy in January 2021 and was put on tamoxifen for five years. Being told there was no evidence of disease in my body was a huge relief. Jilly had recently retired, and we decided we wanted to spend time together in a fun and creative way rather than just meeting for coffee. So, in May last year, we enrolled on a five-week beginners’ pottery course at a…

Give your wardrobe a revamp, inspired by Cotton Traders’ brand ambassador and broadcaster, Alex Jones. Check out the latest Alex Jones Edit for modern cuts that are versatile enough for every event in your calendar, while offering a little something new for the season ahead. The Cotton Traders spring capsule wardrobe is filled with timeless style, endless wearability and, of course, unrivalled comfort. TERMS & CONDITIONS This discount can be redeemed against any full-price item at cottontraders.com when you spend £35 or more. One promotion per order. £35 minimum spend applies and excludes delivery. This offer cannot be used in-store, by phone or in conjunction with any other offer. This offer excludes multi-buy, gift cards, discounted, sale and clearance lines and Triumph, Sloggi & Berlei branded items. This offer cannot…

‘The only thing I had to remind me of my father, John, when I was growing up was a small photograph of him holding me as a baby. I was just 16 months old when he died in a car crash, so I had no memories of him at all. He was 21 when he died, leaving my mum, Linda, a widow at 19. Mum married Richard a few years later, a wonderful man who adopted me, walked me down the aisle on my wedding day and shaped the person I am today. It wasn’t that people didn’t want to talk about my birth father, but life was busy, people moved away and we lost touch with his side of the family. Not much was known about child bereavement in…

1982 Dreaming of fame Victoria Adams wanted to pursue a musical career after watching the film Fame. 1994 Meeting the girls Answering an advert, Victoria auditioned and joined The Spice Girls. She was given her nickname Posh by a journalist because of her comfortable upbringing. 1997 BRITs stars Who can forget The Spice Girls at the BRIT Awards? The moment encapsulated the boom of the late 1990s, known as ‘Cool Britannia’. 1997 Love at first sight The legend of ‘Posh and Becks’ begins… Victoria fell in love the moment she set eyes on David Beckham in the Manchester United players’ lounge. 1998 A public engagement The couple made global headlines when, a year after meeting, they announced their engagement in January 1998. 1999 Brooklyn Brooklyn was born in March 1999…

Exercise not only has many health benefits – such as reducing your risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke and some cancers – but it’s proven to be good for your mind, too. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) – which advises the NHS on treatment – recommends exercising three times a week to ease mild to moderate depression. To tie in with Mental Health Awareness Week (13-19 May), we’ve created five pages of ideas – ranging from fresh fitness experiences to mood-boosting movement – and features that will motivate everyone at all levels of ability. It’s time to get inspired……

It’s not always easy finding the time or motivation to get moving. Jenni’s secret is to remind herself of the feel-better benefits of 30 minutes of exercise a day. Do these appeal? ✓ Free travel. ✓ A chance to get some fresh air. ✓ A dose of vitamin D. ✓ 30 minutes on your own to decompress after a busy day. ✓ 30 minutes to plan ahead for the day. ✓ 30 minutes to maintain a fitness regime. ✓ 30 minutes to feel healthier. ✓ 30 minutes to help you sleep better. ✓ Bragging rights over your partner/friend who hasn’t been for a run!…

FFRunner Ombré-Edition Mesh Running/Sports Trainers, £160, FitFlop FitFlop has brought out a range of flexible yet supportive running shoes, made just for women. Triaction Sports Bra, £54, Triumph With breathable fabric and soft construction, this range has brilliant support and pretty designs, available in sizes 32-42 A-E. Opti Resistance Bands, £13 for a set of 4, Argos Using these when you’re doing lunges and squats will boost your balance, strength and flexibility. Active Green Floral Leggings, £20, Tu Great activewear at affordable prices. We’re big fans of this design by Tu, which also features a deep pocket that’s perfect for your phone or keys.…

HOBBS Our fashion team loves Hobbs for its modern tailoring and upscale workwear, but it’s the more understated pieces that have grabbed our attention recently. Expect chic striped knits, easy breezy shirt dresses and colourful tailoring. Crochet is huge right now and Hobbs has tapped into the trend with this divine dress just waiting for warmer days. NEXT High-street hero Next is a firm favourite with our readers, and with our fashion team, too! If you’re after a grown-up take on all the trends, you’ll find it here, without the hefty price tag. This season we’ll be shopping striped tees, quilted jackets and tulle skirts. JOHN LEWIS With so many fantastic labels under one roof, John Lewis & Partners offers the ultimate shopping fix. But this spring it’s the in-house…

Start reading today with instant access when you subscribe to Country Living. Loved by 500,000 readers, every issue is packed with expert advice to help you get more from your garden, create a modern rustic home you’ll love to live in, and discover the UK’s best artisans and craftspeople. Every subscription includes access to our new app, where you can experience Country Living events and workshops, as well as our Marketplace, so you can create your own country home. Take advantage of our Spring Sale today, and never miss an issue. SALE SPRING • LIMITED-TIME OFFER – just £6 for your first six months (saving 88%)• INCLUDES free UK delivery direct to your door• READ the digital edition on your smartphone or tablet• ACCESS events, Marketplace and CL content through…

We love the easy fit of these smart/casual chinos, with a gentle mid-waist, zip fly and beltloops. Choose from the classic smart fit with angled pockets or a more casual style with turn-ups. And once the sun comes out, try the chic shorts option, perfect for sightseeing on your holiday. Choose a clean modern print or plain twill to wear with a colour-block top, or opt for nautical stripes. Subscribe to Prima now & get 3 months for £3, plus the pattern every month Need to know SIZES 6-24 Sew a regular fit chino with modern angled pockets, zip front and belt loops in either a short, ankle-length or turn-up option. FABRICS We used a navy canvas twill for the shorts, a geometric-print canvas for the ankle-length chinos and a stripe twill…

Measurements Length (approximately): 55cm. Width (approximately): 40cm. Pocket length: 13cm. Materials • 2 x 100g balls Prima DK Acrylic Wool in Teal (A). 1 x 100g balls each in Mustard (B) and Dusty Pink (C). • 3.25mm crochet hook. • 10 stitch markers. • Coat hanger. • Starch spray to add structure (optional). Tension 19 sts and 15 rows to 10cm square over herringbone half treble crochet using a 3.25mm hook. 19 sts and 17 rows to 10cm square over pocket pattern using a 3.25mm hook. Abbreviations blo back loop only; ch chain; cm centimetre; dc double crochet; mm millimetre; rem remaining; rep repeat; RS right side; sl st slip stitch; st(s) stitch(es); tr treble crochet; WS wrong side; yo yarn over; * repeat the instructions following the single asterisk…

NEW FOR YOU Move over, ketchup, there’s a new condiment in town – and it’s sweet, tangy and savoury all at once. It’s available in classic malt vinegar and zingy garlic flavours, and whether you like to dollop your sauce all over or prefer to delicately dip, it’s just what your Friday night fish supper is calling for. Sarson’s Dip & Drizzle, £2 for 250g, Tesco, Iceland and Ocado 3 of the BEST SUPERMARKET WHISKIES Did you know? Scotch is always spelt without an ‘e’ and American (and Irish!) whiskey with it. SNACK ATTACK Cheese fiends must try these moreish snacks, made from 100% real cheese, simply baked until puffed and crunchy. I won’t go on a hike (or long trip to a shopping mall!) without them. Available in larger…

LEAF IT OUT Invite the outside in with a bold botanical print. The bigger the scale of your chosen motif, the more impact it will have in your space – why not use it as a starting point for your whole scheme? Green upholstery, natural textures and thriving house plants will echo the look wonderfully. Hit the spot Polka dots are back! Go for a more sophisticated take on the trend by choosing a reserved colour palette: creams, greys and even blues make a smart, liveable option compared with designs in bright shades. They work well on floors to create visual interest in areas such as hallways and landings. Fair and square A chequerboard motif works on everything from floors and fabrics to ceramics and cushions. Keep it classic with…

PREP YOUR SPACE Remove any furniture and check your floorboards to see if any need repairing or replacing. Use wood filler to plug any gaps and achieve a smooth finish. Nails can help you secure any loose floorboards. SAND YOUR FLOORBOARDS Hire a professional floor sander to get the job done. But before using, seal off the room by using dust sheets or a zip-door dust-barrier guard. Once finished, vacuum and mop clean. CHOOSE YOUR PAINT WISELY You can opt for a specialist floorboard paint, as this can be applied without sanding your boards – you simply vacuum and wash them down with sugar soap. Matt emulsion is another option and may also give you more choice when it comes to colours. If prepped, primed and sealed afterwards, matt emulsion…

As the seasons begin to change, it’s a good time to think about how we can adapt our gardens to make them fit for the future. Scientists have recently predicted that the UK is likely to see 40°C summer days in the coming year, so it’s time to think cold tubs and hardy plants for starters. A Mediterranean feel As the warmer, drier weather becomes more common, gardens may become our holiday hotspots as we fuse Mediterranean style with classic British tastes. Plants that are resilient to warmer weather and require less water, such as rosemary and lavender, will take centre stage. Things like olive trees and palm trees, which are harder to keep alive through winter, will become less difficult to grow – so start thinking of where you…

• Guests will need to provide key information, such as passport details, before arrival at the port, often via an app or website. • Guests must pass through airport-style security on arrival. • Guests must show their passports and present their cruise documentation to the check-in agent to be issued their cruise card – which allows access to the ship, often acts as a room key and is used to pay for items on the ship, acting as an on-board account card. • Boarding generally starts around midday; however, this can vary and/or be staggered throughout the afternoon. • Access to cabins is generally available from a little later in the afternoon. Turn the page to discover the cruise for you……

Departing from a UK port avoids the cost of international flights on top of your cruise fare – and the hassle of flying – and can reduce your carbon footprint. Boarding straight on to the ship means the first day of your holiday truly feels like a holiday. Rather than enduring a stressful travel day, you can arrive at the port at your allotted time, go through security, have your bags delivered to your cabin and be on board eating, watching shows, sharing a drink with friends or sleeping as you head towards the first destination. No-fly cruises can be a great option for multigenerational holidays, removing the stress of flying with young children or older relatives who may find airports overwhelming. It’s exciting to meet at a UK port…

My ideal night in begins with… Running a hot, steaming bath. I make it extra cosy by putting the log burner on. I’ll invite along… My husband and the dog, but only if I get to hold the remote. I’ll be eating… My husband’s home-made spaghetti Bolognese or dim sum, and probably a couple of squares of Dairy Milk chocolate. And drinking… A classic cup of Yorkshire Tea – you can’t beat it. Top of my party playlist is… I like late 1970s and early 1980s cheese numbers that you’d dance to at the youth club. My best-ever dinner party was… In France, at a stunning château with my family and friends. My worst dinner party disaster… You’d have to ask my guests! My current boxset of choice is… Lessons In…

The toughest part of my job on GMB is… The 2.45am alarm, especially because I’m not a morning person! My best-ever interview was with… Bradley Cooper. After filming my scene for Burnt, he let me interview him, which was lovely. My toughest interviewee was… The assistant chief constable of West Midlands Police. He was talking about his diagnosis of motor neurone disease and I got quite upset as it resonated with me because of my dad. The person who surprised me the most was… Russell Crowe. Just before I went in to interview him, I could hear him shouting. I was worried about what was going to happen, but he turned out to be a pussycat. The one who left me starstruck was… Oprah Winfrey. She’s such an accomplished interviewer,…

‘Carefully painting a colourful hummingbird on to a porcelain jug I’ve made, I feel such a strong emotional connection to my work. The hummingbird is the national bird of Jamaica, the country my parents emigrated from in the 1950s. I use it as a motif on one of my collections of ceramics; a way of paying homage to my heritage and culture. I haven’t always been an artist, but I’ve always been artistic. As a child, I loved to paint, sew and draw. And when my children were young, I used to make decorative plates and bowls and ‘bake’ them in my kitchen oven before painting and varnishing. I sold my work at local craft fairs to give myself a creative outlet as well as earn some extra money alongside…

MAKING LIFE SIMPLE FOR THE MODERN WOMAN Subscribe to the digital edition of Prima magazine for instant access to advice on how to look and feel your best, time and money saving solutions, quick and easy food, beautiful homes and gardens, and above all everything you need to get the most out of life. GO DIGITAL AVAILABLE ON THESE DEVICES HEARSTMAGAZINES.CO.UK…

Start by breaking your life down into chunks. Think of headings such as ‘maternal grandparents’ or ‘primary school’ and work through your life chronologically. Have a target to keep you focused. Plan to write a paragraph every day or every weekend. If you’re writing longhand, buy a nice notebook that will bring you pleasure to use. You could use the voice recorder on your mobile phone – just remember to back it up. If you don’t like typing, ask a friend or family member to transcribe it for you. Label old photographs so that future generations know who they are and when they were taken. Personalise your life story by adding old photos, marriage certificates, school reports, ticket stubs or even favourite family recipes.…

When my divorce came through, I felt like an absolute failure. It was 2011, I was 33 and when I’d floated down the aisle at the age of 19 to marry my first serious boyfriend, I never imagined we’d be divorced 14 years later. But the truth was, we were both so young to be in such a serious relationship and, over the years, we just grew apart. Even when hearing that 42% of marriages end in divorce, we’re always convinced we’ll be the exception to the rule. I was distraught when I realised happily ever after wasn’t going to be the case for me. I felt so lost and alone, ashamed and embarrassed – and not just for me, but for my four-year-old son, who was suddenly from a…

Regular Prima readers and keen crafters will need no introduction to Lisa Comfort. For six years, she supplied the magazine with fabulous sewing ideas and clever ways to upcycle, all while running her own pattern and dress-making business, Sew Over It. But now, Lisa, 41, has a new passion – flowers – so she’s given up the glam world of fashion and perfect manicures in favour of gardening gloves and wellies. The decision to switch from fabric to flowers came after a challenging period in her life. ‘I had some form of breakdown,’ says Lisa. ‘My husband and I separated in 2019 when our daughter, Jasmine, was two, then the pandemic hit. The family home was sold, but her new house in London wasn’t ready, so Lisa picked herself up,…

PRESSURE WASHERS Let a pressure washer make light work of tough outdoor jobs ahead of barbecue season. Here are our top picks: BEST FOR PORTABILITY Worx Nitro 18V Hydroshot Cordless Pressure Washer, £199.99 This cordless, lightweight pressure washer was a top scorer for ease of use, with testers finding it comfortable to hold and handy for cleaning awkward spaces. It left our patio streak-free. BEST SMART PRESSURE WASHER Kärcher K7 Premium Smart Control, £639.99 Big, powerful and Bluetooth-enabled, this pressure washer is great for blitzing stubborn dirt. Connect to the app to control pressure levels from your phone. It also made cleaning windows a breeze. BEST BUDGET BUY VonHaus 1600W Pressure Washer, £99.99 If you’re on a budget, this reliable, lightweight all-rounder will blast away dirt without costing the earth.…

Jenni Falconer is a walking (well, jogging!) advert for the benefits of staying active. At 48, she’s a glowing picture of health – and she puts it all down to hitting the pavements. When she’s not running marathons or being a taxi service for her 12-year-old daughter, Ella, Jenni is interviewing guests including Anton Du Beke, Sara Davies and Sadiq Khan for her inspiring podcast, RunPod. The presenter has just written a book called Runner’s High, and encourages everyone to reap the feelgood benefits of exercise – even if it’s a slow, steady plod around the block. When I started running as a young adult, I didn’t have the right kit. I went out in men’s jogging bottoms with a Sony Walkman tucked into my push-up bra (which I would…

Q I’M 51 AND HAVE DEVELOPED HAYFEVER-LIKE RUNNY NOSE AND ITCHY EYES. I DON’T THINK IT’S DUE TO GRASS, SO WHAT COULD IT BE? A The timing of symptoms can help to pinpoint the cause. If you have a stuffed-up, runny nose and sneeze for most of the year, it suggests perennial rhinitis, which is often triggered by an allergy to house dust mites. If you have these symptoms in spring (April to May), you could have a tree pollen allergy. Symptoms during summer (June to August) suggest a grass pollen allergy, and during autumn (August to October), an allergy to mould and fungal spores. The basic treatment is the same: using antihistamine tablets, nasal sprays or decongestants, all available from pharmacies. If symptoms are persistent and troublesome, your GP…

1 A quicker shave For in-shower hair removal, the Estrid Razor Starter Kit, £9.95, is the one we always recommend. The hydrating soap strip surrounding the blades creates so much slip you can even skip the shaving foam. It also comes with a suction-based wall holder to sit in, so you can keep it neatly to hand. Smart! 2 Shine shot L’Oréal Paris Elvive Glycolic Gloss 5 Minute Lamination, £15.99, turns dull, dry-looking hair around in a flash. Allow a generous amount to sit on the mid-lengths to ends of hair while you shave or exfoliate, to let the glycolic acid penetrate under the cuticle, then inject hair with conditioning agents and seal the cuticles back down again. 3 Comfortable cleansing Body moisturising isn’t just about what you put on…

‘Everyone needs some sewing know-how in their lives,’ says the author of new book Simple Machine Sewing, Angela Pressley. ‘Taking inspiration from my sewing classes over the years, I have crammed a storehouse of information into my book. The real way to sew in a sustainable way is not to worry about the grainline, pattern matching, fussy cutting and getting the recommended fabric for the project you’ve seen. Sew your own path by using offcuts and remnants and mixing different fabrics. The important thing is to fall in love with your fabric choices because they will get you to the end of the project. Happy sewing!’ SOFT PLANT POT COVER Making these simple covers is a great way to hide plain planters, revamp your plant pot arrangement and give your…

Pick your favourite spring flowers from your garden and, after you’ve pressed them, transform them into stunning hanging ornaments with this simple, totally beginner-friendly project. You know me – I love making the most of bits and pieces from around the house, and for this project you only need a few items – plus some blooms! Making the dough is lots of fun and a little bit messy, so it’s the perfect activity for the whole family to get stuck into together. love You will need * 65g cornflour (plus extra for dusting) * 125g bicarbonate of soda * 180ml water * Pan * Rolling pin * Cookie cutter * Straw (to create the ribbon hole) * Pressed flowers * Mod Podge * Brush * Ribbon or twine * Scissors…

ORIGAMI If you’ve not tried origami before, prepare to discover your new favourite meditative craft! Once you learn the basic folds, you’ll be able to make so many lovely projects, such as paper gift bags, ornaments and, of course, the iconic origami crane. All you need to get started is some origami paper, which you can buy online or at your local craft shop. We have a great first project for you – check out our step-by-step guide to making beautiful origami flowers at prima.co.uk/origami. Dates for your diary * LIVING CRAFTS FESTIVAL Hatfield Park, Hertfordshire 9 to 12 May, livingcrafts.co.uk * ART & CRAFT FESTIVAL AT WILDWOODZ Wildwoodz, Inverness 11 to 12 May, exclusivelyhighlands.co.uk/events/may-at-wildwoodz/ UNDER £5 SUNNY CRAFT SUPPLIES Handmade wardrobe A brilliant (and really quick) sewing project is…

For those on a low-sugar diet for medical reasons, please follow dietary advice from a healthcare professional CHEAT’S RASPBERRY SORBET So simple, this versatile recipe can be whizzed up in minutes and made with your favourite frozen fruit (mango also works well). For a firmer result, use a frozen banana (peel and chop before freezing). It’s best enjoyed as soon as it’s made, as ironically for a frozen pud, it doesn’t freeze well – the high-water, low-sugar content means it becomes crystalline and icy if stored in the freezer. SERVES 6 PREP 10min • 1 small ripe banana (about 70g peeled weight)• 200ml coconut milk, see Cook’s tip• 1tbsp maple syrup or runny honey, optional• 250g frozen raspberries FOR THE SPRINKLE, OPTIONAL • 25g pistachio kernels, finely chopped• 20g dark…

There’s nothing quite like the thrill of getting stuck in and transforming your space into something new. So, to help you do just that, we’ve spoken to lots of professionals who have divulged their tips on the most common DIY tricks everyone should know. Whether it’s draughty windows that need a plug or pictures that need putting up, here’s how to become an expert in do-it-yourself……

STOP THE WATER The first thing to do is turn off the water supply to the tap. Look for the isolation valve, usually beneath the sink, and close it to stop the flow of water. TAKE OFF THE HANDLE It can usually be unscrewed or pried off gently. If there’s a decorative cap over the handle, carefully remove this first. If you can’t remove it using your hands or a screwdriver, try an adjustable spanner or Allen wrench. REMOVE THE CARTRIDGE Once the handle is off, you’ll see the tap cartridge. Use an adjustable spanner to loosen it and remove the old cartridge. If you have one, you can also use a dedicated cartridge removal tool, although if you’re not a plumber you probably won’t! INSTALL THE NEW CARTRIDGE Take…

WIRE CHECK Find out if there are any wires or light fittings behind your wall. You can use an electric wire detector here. But as a rule of thumb, avoid anywhere vertically around plug sockets and light fittings. FIND YOUR STUDS Using a stud finder, pencil and spirit level, mark where the studs are on your wall. PLACE YOUR BRACKETS Position your bracket on the stud-marked spot. Now mark your screw holes along the wall stud that runs vertically. Use a spirit level to make sure they’re all level. Place the centre of your bracket on the stud and mark the additional holes around it. DRILL YOUR HOLES Drill your holes along the marked spots, making sure your drill bit correlates to the right size for your screws. For single…

PREP YOUR SPACE Fill and sand any cracks or imperfections on your wall. Clean the wall with detergent or sugar soap. On fresh plaster, ‘size’ the wall with a diluted paste solution. Liberally apply this to the walls being decorated and let it dry. This will soak into the porous plaster and stop the paste from being absorbed when applied. SOURCE YOUR SUNLIGHT If you’re papering the whole room, start where the natural light is strongest. This is less relevant for a feature wall. STRAIGHT LINES The first ‘drop’ of wallpaper is key as all others will align to it, so it’s important to ensure it’s ‘plumb’, otherwise your wallpaper could look wonky. From the left-hand corner of the wall, measure 50cm horizontally to the right and make a pencil…

Bold walls Bring retro vibes and tons of personality to a room with this vibrant wallpaper, which will look equally good in a living room, office or even kitchen. Spotlight on… FLYING TIGER For an unbelievable bargain, visit one of Flying Tiger’s many stores or check the website. PAINT MAGIC Get creative and treat your walls to a few curves in your favourite colours. 3 of the BEST PLACEMATS Up your tablescaping game with a new placemat Genius idea A floor lamp with an integrated table is a great space-saving option. STYLE IT FOR £10 & UNDER Enjoy this month’s bargain finds…

My book of the month You Are Here by David Nicholls (Sceptre, £20) Oh, how I love, love, love this beautiful story! The observations David Nicholls makes about people and their behaviour are just so astute. Michael and Marnie are both single and, after being pushed together, they end up on an epic walking trip. This is a book about friendship, acceptance and finding the courage to let your barriers down. The dialogue is very funny. I can’t stop recommending it to everyone. 23 April The Comeback by Ella Berman (Aria, £9.99) Teenager Grace Turner is plucked from obscurity by film director Able Yorke and whisked away to Hollywood. So why, eight years later, at the height of her career, does she disappear for a year? A powerful and poignant story of…

If I had to pick a favourite month (and not being rude to the other months), it would have to be May. Rather strangely, I remember having this very same conversation when I was at college, just a couple of years ago (okay, I fib, it really was quite a few years ago now). Anyway, I digress. The reason May is my favourite month is because there’s a freshness to everything. We’re almost in summer, but the last few weeks of spring are so bright and energising. And don’t get me started on the delicious fresh veg that’s out there. I love this recipe for asparagus and fresh pea fritters. All you need apart from the veg is some cornflour, an egg, garlic, chilli powder and a pinch of salt.…