Craft show proves a hit at the NEC

THE NEC was abuzz with creativity at the weekend. Thousands of people flocked to Crafts for Christmas, Hobbycrafts, Art Materials Live and Cake International which were once again back in Birmingham. And there was plenty on offer for budding creatives ... More»

Staycation is the new vacation

STAYCATION is the new vacation - but what do you do and where do you go when you have a dog and a small baby in tow? Observer Editor Chris ... More»

Truly Britain's ultimate castle

WARWICK Castle very confidently describes itself as Britain's Ultimate Castle. And while many areas of the country still live in the shadows of what were once centres of power, I ... More»

Go on safari to Cotswold Wildlife Park

COTSWOLD Wildlife Park is one of few animal attractions that can claim to have the endorsement of the country’s most influential man, <i>writes Chris Smith</i>. Opened 40 years ago in ... More»

Piggy backing the popularity of a child phenomenon

PEPPA Pig is a children's TV phenomenon. Since airing on Channel Five in 2004 the show has grown in popularity and is now on television in 180 countries. So it ... More»

Youth revisited at Drayton Manor

GOING to Drayton Manor Theme Park was one of the highlights of my school holidays and it has been almost 15 years since my last visit, <i>writes Chris Smith.</i> But ... More»

Review: Tiddler and Other Terrific Tales, The Old Rep

<b>Tiddler and Other Terrific Tales</b> <b>The Old Rep, Birmingham</b> JULIA Donaldson and Axel Scheffler's books are among the best on the children's market. And this new, and hugely entertaining, show ... More»

Review: CBeebies Live - a who's who of children's TV royalty

<b>CBeebies Live! Reach To The Stars</b> <b>LG Arena Birmingham</b> KEEPING the kids quiet and content for two hours is, as most parents would agree, a near impossible job. Well, in ... More»