Ferrari California Experience Charity Event

For the third year running, Ferrari North Europe has once again joined forces with the world famous Silverstone Circuit to give some of the UK’s most deserving young people a very special experience.

50 disabled, disadvantaged and seriously ill children, nominated by Variety the Children’s Charity and automotive industry charity BEN, experienced the thrill of being driven around Silverstone’s Stowe racing circuit in a fleet of Ferrari California sports cars.

The event was hosted by self-confessed car obsessive Natalie Pinkham, the television and radio presenter who was recently appointed Formula One pit lane reporter for Sky Sports F1. Also helping out was Variety ambassador and reigning Miss England, Charlotte Holmes as well as Miss Northampton, Nadina Knight.

Aged from four upwards, the children had travelled from all over the country to take part in the Ferrari California Experience. The day was much anticipated by the group, many of whom have been battling serious illness or coping with personal bereavement. Also in attendance were some 30 pupils from special schools that deal with a variety of emotional and behavioural difficulties and physical disabilities.

It has always been an aim of the event to include siblings where possible and today was no exception, with brothers and sisters also enjoying the various activities laid on.

Whilst the 50 invited guests were each treated to a 15-minute passenger ride in a Ferrari California, a group of children’s entertainers, driving simulators, face painters and artists delighted those who remained in the Stowe Complex.

Following an escorted tour of the paddock and garages where the children were encouraged to sit in a range of Ferrari F1 Clienti Formula One cars, the departing children were presented with a unique souvenir, personal video featuring footage from their own ride captured by an on-board camera.

Matteo Torre, Regional Manager of Ferrari North Europe commented: “This year’s Ferrari California Experience has been another unforgettable occasion for all who attended. Over the last three years we have made dreams come true for 150 exceptional children and we look forward to brightening the lives of many more in the years to come. I would also like to extend a massive thank you to all those organisations and individuals who so generously donated their time and expertise.”

Mini Dukes and Duchesses

Children can live their very own fairy tale at Dukes St. James London with the brand new Mini Dukes and Duchesses package created especially for little ladies and gentlemen in the making.

Once families have checked in, children will be greeted at the door to their lavish Dukes bedroom by a personal concierge who will offer home baked welcome cookies, a chilled glass of Belgian chocolate milk and a brand new, luxury Duke or Duchess outfit to transform them from mischievous scamps into mini royals. Little princesses will receive a three piece costume featuring a regal red one piece top with gold sash and medal detail, black trousers and a military style hat; whilst the girls will become belles of the ball in a pink and white organza gown.

After a long day of sightseeing or royal appointments, otherwise known as Mother’s pedicures and shopping trips, Dukes and Duchesses can return to the hotel for a scrumptious mini afternoon tea in the hotel’s drawing room. Children will receive a selection of mini cakes, sandwiches, and flavoured milk drinks to sip whilst also being provided with a colouring in book and crayons to give parents a little peace and quiet as they enjoy a good cup of English breakfast tea or de-stress with a glass of sparkling champagne.

With a special juniors menu at the hotel’s restaurant Thirty Six By Nigel Mendham and a children’s concierge, Mini Dukes and Duchesses will be royally spoilt at Dukes St. James London.

Step into the world of Cirque du Sweet at Harrods

Step into the world of Cirque du Sweet, opening Saturday 14th July 2012.

Located within the new Toy Kingdom on the Third Floor, a magical candy haven awaits the sweet-toothed. Opening on Saturday 14th July, Cirque du Sweet is an interactive space that's set to provide a sensory experience for children and adults alike, with newly introduced exclusive concepts and products. Embark on a taste adventure with our traditional sweet shop or our Jelly Belly pick 'n' mix range, or experiment with something a little more adventurous, including...

The curious chocolate counter: Tantalise and trick the taste buds with Willy Wonka-esque combinations such as bubble gum-flavoured cookies, ice cream fondants, popcorn truffles and popping candy bombes. Handmade and finished by our expert team of chocolatiers, the range is also free from artificial colours and flavours.

Cirque du Sweet range: Taking inspiration from The Big Top, the circus-themed collection includes ginormours gobstoppers, magnificent gumballs, marvellous marshmallows and death-defying humbugs.

Papabubble: Exclusively available at Harrods, artisan candymakers Papabubble will offer customers a theatrical feast for the senses. Specialising in hard candy, Papabubble's ranges come in a variety of different colours, flavours, and shapes. All the candy is handcrafted by skilled candymakers, and customers can watch the entire process from the heating of the sugar to the shaping of the soft, colourful candy mixture. Pre-made, made-to-order and personalised sweets are available for weddings, birthdays and other occasions.

Patchino: Exclusively available at Harrods, imagination and innovation combine to give you delicious chocolates and fun toys. Prepared with premium ingredients, Patchino is a health-conscious chocolate brand that's made exclusively for children by renowned chocolate gift creator Patchi, and offers a variety of chocolate flavours packaged in colourful boxes and bags, together with exciting toys and games. Meet the entire lovable gang: Bonny the rabbit, Catty the cat, Doggy the dog, Dolmy the reindeer, Elly the elephant, Gerry the giraffe, Leony the lion, Timmy the tiger, and Zoey the zebra, through a wide range of products, varying from chocolate boxes and bags to tin boxes with a surprise gift inside, as well as gift toys, painting sets and plush toys accompanied by chocolates. Patchino present the ideal gifts from the wrapping paper to the goodies inside.

For more information, please visit http://www.harrods.com/