Dear Readers . . .

Our latest Special is packed with fabulous seasonal reading that will keep you entertained for hours. We have eight pages of puzzles and brainteasers, recipes from Irish cook Darina Allen and a fun personalised memo board to make if you’re feeling crafty.

Fiction fans will love our selection of 14 original short stories from favourite “Friend” authors such as Patsy Collins, Katie Ashmore and Alyson Hilbourne.

Dianne Boardman takes a look at the fascinating life of poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning, and Polly Pullar showcases the amazing artwork of her dear friend and illustrator Clare Mackie. Solange Hando crosses Canada by train, Gillian Thornton meets Britain’s Blue Badge guides and Alex Corlett investigates the world winds that are so notorious they have names!