Guaranteed growth of your money every year. This will be interest-rate-driven based on the economy, but your account will move forward every year regardless of what the market does. This is compound tax-free growth and not the “average rate of return” you get with mutual funds. To be fair, in our current low-interest-rate environment, the growth rates are only in the 2 percent to 4 percent.
How many of you have fond memories of watching Blue Peter growing up? I certainly do, and I imagine it was a staple growing up in the Middleton household. The landmark children's programme has been entertaining youngsters since 1958. Following Kate's 'Back To Nature' garden at RHS Chelsea, the Duchess wanted to encourage more children to participate and knew the perfect way to access a large audience was to join forces with the iconic show to launch a very special competition. The entire segment can be viewed below (don't miss keen young gardener George Hassall taking the lead dividing Kate and presenter Lindsey Russell into teams).
When Kate arrived, it was time for pond-dipping and den building, which she described as "massively up my street". Kate told presenter Lindsey "It encourages creativity, confidence and even a short amount of time, 10-15 minutes outside makes a huge difference to physical well-being but also to our mental well-being". The Duchess added George, Charlotte and Louis are "dragged outside, rain or shine" to play outdoors. In Cumbria, Kate revealed she took the children to the Lake District for three days over half-term. The segment was filmed on 30 April, the Court Circular notes Kate visited Sayers Croft Wildlife Garden and Forest School that morning.
'Joined by a small group of school children at Westminster City Council’s Paddington Recreation Ground, she first helps them with a spot of pond-dipping, and is shown a figure-of-eight technique to best catch wildlife in a net.
"I didn't realise there's an actual technique,” she said, before asking her young friends what they have caught before. Told about their favourite tadpoles, she asks: “Do you know what tadpoles eventually turn into? Have you ever seen any froggies?”
When one girl carefully picks up a newt for a closer look, the Duchess praises her bravery with an admiring “wow”. A second task sees her under the instruction of George Hassall, an RHS young gardener of the year and Blue Peter regular, to plant flowers in “upcycled” containers including colourful wellington boots and old colanders.
“They're good gifts as well, aren't they?” she said, in a hint at how the Cambridge children may be spending their pre-Christmas playtime. “You can do something quite fun.”
More from the BBC: "The Duchess wants to highlight the benefits of the great outdoors and inspire children, families and communities to get back to nature. She is a strong advocate for the importance of early years and the positive impact that nature and the environment can have on childhood development. In the Blue Peter film Her Royal Highness talks about her passion for the great outdoors and how she enjoys getting outside with her family whatever the weather."
During the visit, Kate planted her own Dianthus Barbatus, more commonly known as a 'Sweet William'.
The appearance marks the official launch of a competition with the aim of encouraging families to get outdoors. Young viewers are asked to design a sculpture which will form part of Kate's Back To Nature garden when it arrives at RHS Wisley in September. In addition, the winner will have the opportunity to meet the Duchess. The winning submission should be made from natural materials, include a design element for play or interaction and a paragraph on the thought process behind it. It's open to 6-15 year olds.
To inspire families to spend more time enjoying nature, the Duchess created a selection of outdoor activity cards to accompany the garden. Two runners-up will also get to design their very own Blue Peter activity card.
The Leaf Wand card encourages children to make their very own wand decorated with beautiful coloured leaves, feathers or fallen petals.
At the end of the segment, Kate was thrilled to receive her 'Green Badge'. You might recall William and Kate received their Gold Blue Peter badges (Kate wore hers today) in December 2017 for an appearance they made in support of children's mental health.
For the Blue Peter outing, the Duchess wore her Troy London Tracker jacket. Kate first wore the piece publicly on Tuesday for engagements in Cumbria.
And accessorised with her Kiki McDonough Lauren leaf earrings.
It was a treat to see Kate's efforts to inspire families to spend more time outside continuing. I'm sure George, Charlotte and Louis were tickled pink to see Mum on Blue Peter :)
Following an away day in Cumbria yesterday, it was back to London for the Duchess of Cambridge this evening for the first annual gala dinner in recognition of Addiction Awareness Week, hosted by Action on Addiction and chef Skye Gyngell.
The Duchess was in attendance in her role as patron of Action on Addiction. The national charity offers high quality, effective residential rehab and community based addiction treatment. They provide residential and day treatment for addictions to drugs, alcohol, gambling and other behaviours. The charity offers life-saving treatment to individuals and families at its flagship treatment centre, Clouds House in Wiltshire, and its community-based treatment centres in Essex and Liverpool. It also offers education to degree level at the Centre for Addiction Treatment Studies and funds and promotes research into effective responses to addiction. Action on Addiction is the only UK addiction charity that works across all the areas of research, treatment, family support and professional education.
Ahead of the engagement Kensington Palace touched on Kate's work with the organisation and the role it's played in preparations for her upcoming project focused on supporting children in their earliest years. "Her Royal Highness’s experience with Action on Addiction has helped lay the groundwork for her work and understanding on mental health, and is currently helping inform her work in developing a major project around support for children in their earliest years. Experiences in these earliest moments, before the age of five, are proven to have significant impact on adult lives, including resilience and the ability to cope with adversity."
The Duchess meeting guests.
Before the dinner, Kate met Action on Addiction clients Jay, Otty and Melanie who are working as apprentices in the kitchen, and worked with Spring Restaurant’s head chef and owner Skye Gyngell to prepare the evening’s meal.
The dinner was held at Spring Restaurant in Somerset House, a commanding Georgian building on the Thames.
The restaurant is known for bringing "warmth and elegance within a beautiful dining space set in the New Wing of the iconic Somerset House, in the arts and cultural heart of London. At Spring food is celebrated for its conviviality and the joyfulness of sharing seasonal produce. Cooking is heartfelt, wholesome, produce driven, and cooked by a team of people who are passionate about what they do and who feel truly privileged to work with beautiful ingredients."
Skye Gyngell, originally from Australia, is now one of Britain's most acclaimed chefs. Following years of training in Sydney and Paris, she moved to London where she became known for her elegant cooking and seasonal dishes. In addition to penning several cookbooks, Skye opened Spring in 2014.
The Duchess gave a short speech in which she described her work with Action on Addiction as the "catalyst" for her interest in early childhood development.
The video below features footage of the speech.
Kate's full speech:
'Action on Addiction was one of my very first patronages, and as such, it is very close to my heart. I’m hugely passionate about the support it provides, especially for parents,children and families who suffer from, or through, addiction. And in some ways, it was the catalyst for my interest in early childhood development too. For the last few years, I’ve been focusing on the importance of prevention:how can we all really support the earliest years of life, build foundations, and help avoid adversity later on in life. Having met so many people who’ve suffered from addiction, I have seen over and over again that, sadly, the root cause can so often be traced right back to the very earliest years of someone’s life.
Trauma experienced in early childhood, in some cases, as a result of separation, abandonment, abuse, or even emotional neglect, can have a lasting effect. What we experience during our earliest years, even while we’re still in the womb, shapes the developing brain. It is therefore vital that we support everyone who cares for children in those formative years, especially if we want to help with the inter-generational cycle of addiction. Sadly, for many who are suffering with addiction, they just don’t receive the help they need early enough. They have already reached crisis point before they find the support they need.
What’s remarkable about Action on Addiction is that it goes beyond helping those who are suffering on the courageous journey into recovery – it also lends direct support to the children and families affected by addiction – for as long as it takes.
This evening’s dinner not only marks ‘Addiction Awareness Week’, but it also provides an opportunity for us all to remember the vital work being done to help all those affected by addiction feel able to access help, hope and freedom from their addiction. There was never a more important time for Action on Addiction to succeed. And I, for one, could not be more delighted to support such a special organisation.
Graham, I look forward to working together, and, as your Patron, doing all I can, to help your important mission in the future.'
The Duchess with Action on Addiction Chief Executive Graham Beech.
Addiction Awareness Week (10-16 June) aims to bring addiction out of the shadows and to encourage those battling addiction and their loved ones to discuss the elements and challenges involved. It is hoped awareness will be raised across the UK and more individuals in need of support will learn about the availability and services offered by organisations such as Action on Addiction .
A recent YouGov poll revealed 60 percent of people know an addict, whilst 27 percent say they have a relative with an addiction. I was shocked to see a recent BBC Panorama investigation found just 14 out of 100 alcoholic products included proper guidance and health advice recommending the maximum number of units men and women should consume weekly. I've long thought labeling within the alcohol industry certainly needs to be addressed as does the self-regulatory system.
'Addiction is a life-threatening condition. It affects those around the addict who may never have touched a drink or taken drugs. As a child, I lived with an addict – my mother, Wendy.
She was hardworking, great fun and loving. But I saw her struggle during, and in the aftermath of, failed relationships, with three children in tow. As a child, I could start the day loving my mum and end it hating her. Alcohol changes people. Addiction invades the homes of rich and poor alike. Its effects are far-reaching and its causes run deep. From mental health, abuse, debt and homelessness the daily challenges of living with addiction are multiple and complex.
Looking back, I think my mum turned to drink because of low self-esteem. She didn’t deserve to be alone. She deserved to value herself more. As a child, I had no idea who knew that we had this problem under our roof. You didn’t talk about it to friends. I hoped no one at school knew. It was a secret problem. Our problem. And, even as a child, we knew it had to stay hidden.
My mum did know she had a problem. We once had a family meeting arranged by a social worker. My mum chose the meeting place – the local pub. It wasn’t a success. But she tried. She attended Alcoholics Anonymous and other groups; she even spent time in hospital. Years later, I found a diary from 1986. For months she wrote a daily entry: “1, 2, 3 …” Wendy was trying to stay sober to support me during my pregnancy. On Day 86, the entries stopped.'
Moving onto Kate's style tonight.
The Duchess brought back the very popular off-the-shoulder mesh-paneled dress she debuted in 2016 for the Art Fund Awards by London based, Brazilian designer Barbara Casasola.
The $2,210 midi dress is cut from figure-sculpting stretch-jersey and paneled with sheer mesh inserts for a sporty feel. Made in Italy, it it designed to create a flattering, feminine silhouette.
The dress is from the designer's minimalist Spring 2016 Collection.
Kate styled the dress with the drool-worthy Jimmy Choo Romy 100 Silver and Dusk Blue Fireball pumps she wore for the BAFTAs. The $725 style are described as: "The classic Romy heel gets a contemporary update in silver and dusk blue fireball glitter dégradé. Leather lined with a leather sole, the 100mm heel height creates a leg-lengthening effect."
In fact, my only quibble with this look is the shoes rather outrank the dress in terms of formality and sheer sparkle factor. The Choos are screaming 'Take me to the ball'. I love them both separately, but I do think the dress worked better with the sandals the first time round.
Blue Peter fans are in for a special royal surprise tomorrow! Kensington Palace just confirmed the Duchess has filmed an appearance for the landmark CBBC show which will air tomorrow at 5.30 pm.
Duchess Kate has taped an appearance on iconic British children’s show #BluePeter to launch a competition as part of her mission to get more children and families outdoors🌿🍃
In the episode Kate goes pond-dipping with local school kids, which she says is “right up my street.” pic.twitter.com/TZvN4RLUZ2
Kate joined a group of children for den building and pond-dipping, which she described as "massively up her street". The Duchess is wearing her Troy London Tracker jacket and Superga Cotu shoes in 'Sherwood Gum' (with thanks to Middleton Maven).
'The Duchess, who last month unveiled her “back to nature” garden at Chelsea Flower Show, is taking part in a special segment to be broadcast on Blue Peter on Thursday night to make the case for spending "ten to 15 minutes" playing outside as often as possible.
She will also launch a “once-in-a-lifetime” competition for young viewers to design a sculpture to put in her garden at RHS Wisley in September, with two runners-up invited to design their own activity cards to help their peers into the garden.
The programme will see the Duchess speak about the importance of outdoor play, confessing her own children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis are “dragged outside” come “rain or shine”.
“It encourages creativity, confidence and even a short amount of time - 10-15 minutes outside - makes a huge difference to physical well-being but also to our mental well-being,” she said, in discussion with presenter Lindsey Russell.
A seven-and-a-half minute segment of the show, which is broadcast on CBBC, sees the Duchess introduced as a "gold Blue Peter badge-holder” before taking part in three outdoor activities children can try at home'
I'll post the full segment once it becomes available.
We'll almost certainly see the Duchess at Windsor on Monday for this year's Order of the Garter. There's going to be quite the turnout with Queen Letizia of Spain and Queen Maxima of the Netherlands expected to support their husbands. King Felipe became a Stranger Knight of the Order in 2017 and King Willem-Alexander was appointed a supernumerary Knight last October. Royal Ascot kicks off next Tuesday, it's possible we'll see the Cambridges there on one of the days.
It was an away day for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge as they travelled to Cumbria to celebrate the resilience and spirit of rural and farming communities in the region.
Their first port of call was the market town of Keswick. There's been a great sense of anticipation ahead of the royal visit - the first to the town since 2009 when Prince Charles switched on the Christmas lights there. I found the nugget of information incredibly interesting; although there's quite a few members of the royal family active at present, there's so much to be done up and down the country - and across the UK and Commonwealth - a royal visit is very much a rarity in parts of England. I often say the value of these trips cannot be underestimated. A royal photographed at a place of business is invaluable, not to mention the level of awareness it can raise for small grassroots charities. It's an opportunity for the area to gain global exposure in the media, which lends support to tourism. Indeed, tourism is key to Cumbria's economy. Home to the English Lake District, which was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2017, the county welcomes millions each year.
Local town Councillor Alan Dunn told News & Star the visit was "great" for Keswick "It’s absolutely brilliant that Keswick is hosting their first visit to the county. It’s a privilege for us to have them." A spokesperson for St Herbert's primary school added: "It's great news for the town and the children".
Simon Perry shared a photo of the crowds before the royal arrival.
Keswick's history began in the Middle Ages when the area was conquered by the Anglo-Saxon Kingdom of Northumbria in the seventh century. The town was granted a charter for a market by Edward I in 1276 and has a history spanning more than seven centuries. The name is thought to mean "farm where cheese is made" or "cheese farm".
A panoramic view of Keswick and the surrounding area.
The Duke and Duchess joined a celebration focused on local individuals and organisations supporting families and communities across Cumbria. They spent time with volunteers including those from the local mountain rescue service, community first responders, young people trained as mental health first aiders and other organisations that have benefited from grants from the Cumbria Community Foundation.
The couple were delighted to see Max, Paddy and Prince Harry of Winterfell. We know William and Kate are fans of Games of Thrones and will have appreciated Harry's title.
It was something of a reunion as the Cambridges first met Max at the Buckingham Palace garden party last month. In 2006, Kerry Irving's car was hit by a truck leaving him with chronic neck and back pain. Assistance dog Max has been an invaluable friend to him throughout his journey.
'Mr Irving is now training his two other dogs, Paddy and Harry - full name is Prince Harry of Winterfells - to become therapy dogs. Speaking after his conversation with the Duke and Duchess today, Mr Irving said: 'When I said, "That’s Prince Harry", William laughed said, “Oh yes, this is the one you mentioned when you were down at the palace".'
Mr Irving continued: 'It was excellent seeing them and that they remembered us. They said that as they flew over the lakes they could see people sailing and kayaking and swimming. They said to me, "what you’re doing is getting people outdoors".'
The trio with Kerry this morning. Mr Irving and his wife Angela hold walks in support of local animal charities. Click here to view their Facebook Page.
Afterwards, it was time for a walkabout in Market Square.
William meeting locals.
The video below has excellent footage of the couple sampling cheese at a local stall and meeting locals.
From there, William and Kate travelled to a traditional sheep farm in Patterdale.
They met members of the Cumbrian farming community and discussed challenges farmers are dealing with at present. They learned about peer support networks supporting those in rural areas and diversification in the sector.
Kate admired a young girl's plait and said "I love your plaits. I tried to do a plait on Charlotte this morning but it didn't really work very well". The little ones were hoping Kate would come in her Princess Elsa dress. The Duchess smiled and said "I'm sorry. I came in my trousers and my coat because I'm going to be meeting some of your sheep".
William asked the group if Brexit was a major concern moving forward. Chris Ship was with the couple for the meeting and reported on the discussion. "In a No Deal Brexit, the worse case scenario for farmers, William and Kate were told in no uncertain terms, is ’absolutely dire’: 40% tariffs on sheep, a fall in exports, and an end to farming subsidies from the Common Agricultural Policy."
'The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge aren’t here to cut some ribbon or open a new visitor centre - as royals are perhaps best known for - but they came to sit in a farm kitchen and listen to a group of farmers tell them what it’s like working high up in the hills of Cumbria.
Adam Day, from The Farmer Network said they were facing a perfect storm in the event of a No Deal Brexit. He spoke of the value of their animals halving, their European export market drying up and the subsidies from the controversial Common Agricultural Policy drying up and not being replaced. Farmers feel like they’ve been very low down on the list of priorities as politicians have tried - and failed - to find a way to leave the EU. "Brexit is the big worry", said Jimmy Brown, "it’s just the uncertainty." Currently, much of his lamb is exported to Germany, Spain and Italy. Jimmy’s dad Chris Brown added: "It’s always been difficult farming in the hills but we’ve always muddled through."
The couple got stuck in and offered a hand with sheep shearing.
The couple joined children for an environmental session on the Ullswater way.
Kate revealed she brought the children for a break in the Lake District over half-term. Despite their profile, it's great they can enjoy family getaways under the radar. More from the Mail Online:
'During the nature walk The Duchess of Cambridge said she is immersing her three children in her love for the mountainous area of Britain's Lake District.
Kate, who has regularly holidayed in the area throughout her life, brought them for a family break in a recent half term holiday, and she told the crowd who came out to meet her and husband Prince William on Tuesday.
'She said that it was raining a lot and was a long way from their home in Norfolk, but they love it here,' one wellwisher lining the market square in the center of Keswick, Cumbria, said. 'She said that her children love coming here and walking in the fells,' Jack Mumberson, 11, from Ireby Church of England school, said 'She told us how nice the Lake District was and how lucky we were to live so close to the mountains.'
The video below is a wonderful wrap up of the visit. Kate discusses her trip with the children a few weeks ago, there's footage of the couple sheering sheep and gorgeous views from a hill above Ullswater.
For those planning a visit to the UK and considering spending a few days soaking up the scenic outdoors, Cumbria is a fantastic choice.
The mountainous rural county is home to an abundance of lakes and forests.
The Duchess opted for a smart casual outfit for the outdoorsy day in Cumbria.
The Duchess sported Troy London's Tracker Jacket (with thanks to Middleton Maven). The olive green £275 piece is described as: 'The ultimate throw-on summer jacket made from cotton drill. Beautifully finished inner with contrast binding in honey gold. The internal drawstring waist gives the option for a more tailored fit. Utilitarian pockets. Fastened with monogrammed bone buttons.' The Norfolk-based brand is run by sisters Rosie and Lucia Ruck Keene. Rosie is married to Prince George's godfather William van Cutsem, he and William are incredibly close friends.
Underneath, Kate wore her Fjallraven forest green Ovik sweater.
Kate wore her See by Chloe Leather-trimmed suede ankle boots. Made from dark-brown suede, they have tonal leather trims and logo-embossed heel tabs, and are set on a chunky tread sole.
And accessorised with her Kiki McDonough Lauren leaf earrings.
A closer look at Kate's pretty ponytail.
The Duchess also wore a white pie crust shirt and black skinny jeans.
For the final engagement, Kate changed into her Barbour Defence Jacket.
We'll see the Duchess tomorrow evening for the first annual gala dinner in recognition of Addiction Awareness Week, hosted by Action on Addiction and chef Skye Gyngell, and deliver a speech to celebrate the work of the charity.
Munere veritus fierent cu sed, congue altera mea te, ex clita eripuit evertitur duo. Legendos tractatos honestatis ad mel. Legendos tractatos honestatis ad mel.
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