Sue Hosler
Mary Queen of Scots: The Red Queen
There are few women in history to have truly stood the test of time but the romance surrounding the ill-fated Mary Queen of Scots has ensured that her story lives on to intrigue and fascinate each new generation. However, who this 16th Century lady actually was and what role she played in the history of Great Britain can often be something of a mystery. Both of these questions and many more will be answered through the course of this film, while we take you on a journey of discovery across the majestic landscapes of Scotland, England and France to find the femme fatale behind the legend. The Castles of Scotland are synonymous with this Queen, who was crowned at Sterling when she was just nine months old. Follow in her footsteps to Linlithgow, Edinburgh and Lochleven Castles and see for yourself the Palaces where Mary lived, loved and lost in spectacular style. Piece together the Queen of Scots’ turbulent relationship with her cousin Elizabeth I of England, which ultimately proved to be Mary’s downfall. In different circumstances the two women might well have been friends but when the Queen of England signed Mary’s death warrant the Queen of Scots, dressed in blood red, played out her final act under the executioner’s axe. The story of Mary Queen of Scots is as alive with passion, drama and political intrigue as any 21st Century blockbuster movie, so take the highroad to Scotland and let the adventure begin.
Freemasonry: Tracking the Code
Mention Freemasonry, the world over, and images of secret handshakes, ancient rituals and mysterious ceremonies will spring to most people’s minds. Left to the vivid imagination, fuelled by modern literary best- sellers like Dan Brown’s “The Da Vinci Code”, we all now look for hidden meanings in the documents of history, and Freemasonry with its fascinating symbolic imagery is a natural choice for the inquiring mind. There was a time, and not so long ago, when it was almost impossible to find out anything about the Freemasons, unless of course you became one, but with advancing technology it’s possible to now successfully investigate the past of this elusive secret society. If unravelling a good mystery appeals, this program, literally follows the progress of Freemasonry from its earliest beginnings right up to the present day, will definitely be for you! So, let the journey commence in a place and time when the stonemasons of the great Cathedrals of Europe held all the secrets. Discover how the mysteries of the Great Temple of Solomon from the Bible influenced growing interest in Freemasonry and then join the Founding Fathers of America to see the craft of the Mason evolve in a New World for a New Age. You’ll even get to enter the Inner Temple of one of the most magnificent Masonic Lodges in the world, and although you may not uncover every secret of the Freemasons, you can guarantee you’ll end up knowing a great deal more than when you started “Tracking the Code”.
The Story of Tea
One of the most refreshing, alluring, and ancient of drinks and one that has sparked many a war, tea continues to grow in popularity on a daily basis. Ranging from the health-promoting properties of Chinese green tea and the full-on flavor of Indian Assam tea, to the elite Darjeeling and pungent Earl Grey teas, there’s a brew for every occasion. Covering the manufacture, brewing, and wide assortment of blends, this fascinating program will take you on a journey of discovery that will leave you with a new appreciation of tea’s magic and the knowledge of how to make the perfect cup every time!
Christmas Treasures: Discover the History&Origins of the Season's Greatest Traditions
Who can say what makes Christmas special? Twinkling lights on a tree, brightly wrapped gifts, choirs singing, Santa Claus, reindeer, friends and family, the list is endless and every family celebrates Christmas in its own unique way. For as long as mankind has walked the Earth a mid-winter festival has always been celebrated and Christmas traditions have grown and evolved as each new generation adds their own special touch to the holiday festivities. “A Christmas to Treasure” brings together the very best the season has to offer from all over the world. Discover how Santa Claus got his red coat, why we hang up stockings, where the traditional Christmas tree came from and why we eat, drink and make merry throughout the holiday. The magic of Christmas has been captured in this program for the whole family, to thrill everyone from the very young to the young-at-heart. This is the perfect way to relax and enjoy the nostalgia of Christmas past and look forward to a very happy Christmas present with all the hope of Christmas future. Learn the who, what and where of Christmas’ greatest seasonal treats and traditions like: Yule Log / Christmas Tree / Mistletoe / Santa Claus / Holly Wreaths / Candy Canes / Eggnog / Christmas Turkey Dinner / Festive Crackers / Christmas Cards / Christmas Pudding and more!
J.R.R. Tolkien and the Birth of "the Lord of the Rings" and "the Hobbit"
In a house in Oxford lived a remarkable man called J.R.R. Tolkien who told stories that thrilled the world. To this very day readers and film audiences are enjoying his magnificent epics “THE LORD OF THE RINGS” and “The Hobbit” – adapted to the big screen by producer, Peter Jackson. Although everybody has heard of Tolkien’s writing, very few people could tell you much about the man responsible for creating the best loved magical creatures that have become household names. This program will give you a real insight into the man behind the legends of “THE LORD OF THE RINGS,” and the people and places that shaped his unique literary genius. From the rolling English countryside to the sooty streets of Industrial Birmingham, the dreaming spires of Oxford to the World War I trenches of the blood soaked Somme; this is the story of the quintessential English College Professor who made epic mythology and legend accessible to one and all. LEARN THESE AND MORE FASCINATING FACTS ABOUT TOLKIEN AND HIS INSPIRATIONS FOR HIS GREAT LITERARY WORKS• The huge cult status of “The Lord of the Rings” did not fully evolve until some years after Tolkien’s death. • Gamgee (as in Sam Gamgee) came from a local word meaning cotton wool. • The inspiration for Gandolph was a postcard picturing a mountain spirit with a long white beard, wide-brimmed hat and long cloak. • Tolkien was inspired by Andrew Lang’s “The Red Fairy Book”. • Greek and other mystical languages fascinated Tolkien, so he studied the history of linguistics while at Oxford. • One of his literary companions was C.S. Lewis, author of “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe”.
Reiki: The Power of Touch&the Art of the Healing Hand - A Day at the Spa Collection
When it comes to complimentary and alternative therapies, Reiki is deservedly becoming better known, and this wonderful treatment, based on ancient Japanese healing, is enjoying an increasing following all over the world. If this is the first you’ve heard of Reiki, or you’d just like to know what it’s all about, then this program is definitely for you. Reiki translates from Japanese as “universal life force” and it evokes the flow of positive energy in all living beings. This is the perfect opportunity to watch a Reiki practitioner at work and see for yourself this gentlest of therapies in action. Discover the principles of Reiki, which will encourage self-growth, and learn how to use the force of Reiki for your own benefit and the well-being of those around you. Then, last but not least, try a little self-Reiki with an easy to follow demonstration that will help you to gently escape the stresses and strains of 21st Century life. You will: Explore the basic principles of this ancient Japanese form of hands-on healing • Create an atmosphere conducive to healing, and watch a Reiki practitioner at work • Learn how to do a Reiki treatment on yourself, whether at home or at your desk at work • Discover and access the chakras-- the centers of spiritual energy within the human body • Strengthen your immune system, and help your body fight infection • Restore equilibrium, and cope with stress and anger • Give your brain functions a boost • Relieve many ailments from head colds and backaches to intestinal problems and asthma • Boost your energy level and increase self-esteem • Find the inner strength to cope effectively in moments of crisis, and calm your frazzled nerves.
Feng Shui: The Art of Creating Harmony&Balance In Your Home
The age-old oriental art form of Feng-Shui has been a way of life for millions of people over the centuries and today it is becoming an increasingly popular practice in the Western world. With the aim of creating harmony and balance, Feng-Shui can be the perfect way to help regain control and calmness over the everyday stresses and strains of life. This program is specially designed to help you achieve a more harmonious living environment by showing you how to apply some very simple and inexpensive Feng-Shui methods. A strategically placed plant, a splash of color, or a couple of calming candles are just a few of the simple ways you can incorporate Feng-Shui into your home or workplace, and there are many more suggestions to discover in this intriguing program. With a fascinating look at Feng-Shui philosophy, and an enormous range of useful tips, people from all walks of life can benefit from this inspiring look into Feng-Shui practice. This program makes the perfect introduction to the subject, however, it is only through yourself that you will be able to judge and experience the true value of Feng-Shui. You will learn how to: Create harmony and balance in your home • Dispel negative energy and create a clutter-free and organized environment • Learn the fundamental principles of this ancient art form, including the magic square, your personal star number, and the five Chinese elements • Understand the different sectors of your home, and learn how they can improve your relationships, creativity, career, health, wealth, and more • Use aromatherapy, plants, mirrors and lighting to encourage the free flow of positive energy • Decorate with harmonious colors, shapes and materials based on your personal star number • Apply Feng-Shui principles to your garden and your work place to promote well-being and prosperity.
A Day At the Spa: Indian Head Massage
When it comes to relaxation people are becoming more and more imaginative as the stresses and strains of 21st Century life take their toll. There are many complimentary and alternative therapies to choose from, grounded in the traditions of the ancients, but few are quite as well suited for the classic problems caused by everyday tensions as Indian Head Massage. This program will take you on a journey of discovery, to find out for yourself what Indian Head Massage is all about. With the help of a very experienced practitioner, not only will you be shown what to expect if you get an Indian Head Massage, you’ll also get the chance to pick up plenty of helpful tips for using the most effective techniques from this wonderful therapy on your family, friends and even yourself. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy a taste of Indian serenity that might just change your perspective on health and happiness. You will learn how to: Dissolve stress, headaches, and neck and shoulder pain • Eliminate toxins and improve circulation • Gain a sense of calm, confidence and well-being • Master a variety of Indian Head Massage techniques, including the “Butterfly” and the “Dragon’s Mouth” • Use massage oils and aromatherapy to enhance the massage experience • Cherish a precious gift that you can share with loved ones for years to come • Learn an easy self-massage routine that you can do anywhere—at your work desk or during a few minutes snatched from a lunch break • See how this art developed more than a thousand years ago out of an ancient beauty treatment • Understand how Indian Head Massage revitalizes the top three Chakras, or energy centers, of the human body • Get practical advice to help your neck feel better every day • Learn valuable home remedies to improve the health and beauty of your hair.
Reflexology: Awakening the Foot's Reflex Point to Bring Health&Well-Being - A Day At the Spa Collection
With modern day life getting ever more stressful, therapeutic treatments that promote health and well-being are becoming increasingly accepted as a valuable part of 21st Century living. One of the most popular therapies offered is Reflexology, and although the majority of people are aware that it concerns the feet, it can still seem a little mysterious. This program has been designed to give you insight into this very valuable health care option, not only explaining how it works, but also demonstrating ways in which it can be incorporated into everyday life. With the help of an experienced Reflexologist, you’ll discover precisely what happens if you go for professional treatment, with an up-close and personal view of what goes on. Whether you suffer with anything from insomnia to arthritis, or simply lack the energy you require to cope with a hectic and stressful lifestyle, Reflexology really can help, and this program is the perfect introduction to this remarkable and effective form of natural healing. You will: Take a guided tour of the different areas of the feet and the corresponding body parts • Learn simple exercises to make your hands supple and strong for maximum effectiveness when giving a Reflexology treatment • Master a basic Reflexology sequence to perform on others • Learn how to do Reflexology on yourself to relieve stress and promote health • See how to create a tranquil setting in which to practice Reflexology for maximum benefits to both the giver and receiver • Understand how to stimulate different glands and alleviate backaches, headaches, insomnia and cold symptoms • Take an in-depth look at valuable Reflexology massage techniques.
J.R.R. Tolkien and the Birth of "the Lord of the Rings" and "the Hobbit"
In a house in Oxford lived a remarkable man called J.R.R. Tolkien who told stories that thrilled the world. To this very day readers and film audiences are enjoying his magnificent epics “THE LORD OF THE RINGS” and “The Hobbit” – adapted to the big screen by producer, Peter Jackson. Although everybody has heard of Tolkien’s writing, very few people could tell you much about the man responsible for creating the best loved magical creatures that have become household names. This program will give you a real insight into the man behind the legends of “THE LORD OF THE RINGS,” and the people and places that shaped his unique literary genius. From the rolling English countryside to the sooty streets of Industrial Birmingham, the dreaming spires of Oxford to the World War I trenches of the blood soaked Somme; this is the story of the quintessential English College Professor who made epic mythology and legend accessible to one and all. LEARN THESE AND MORE FASCINATING FACTS ABOUT TOLKIEN AND HIS INSPIRATIONS FOR HIS GREAT LITERARY WORKS• The huge cult status of “The Lord of the Rings” did not fully evolve until some years after Tolkien’s death. • Gamgee (as in Sam Gamgee) came from a local word meaning cotton wool. • The inspiration for Gandolph was a postcard picturing a mountain spirit with a long white beard, wide-brimmed hat and long cloak. • Tolkien was inspired by Andrew Lang’s “The Red Fairy Book”. • Greek and other mystical languages fascinated Tolkien, so he studied the history of linguistics while at Oxford. • One of his literary companions was C.S. Lewis, author of “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe”.
On the Whisky Trail: The History of Scotland's Famous Drink
Mention Scotland, and for the majority of people, amongst the images of haggis and the Loch Ness Monster, Scotch Whisky will quickly spring to mind. Known throughout the world as the “water of life,” whisky is a fascinating subject for the novice and connoisseur alike, and the more you know about this heart-warming, golden tipple, the better placed you are to truly appreciate it. ON THE WHISKY TRAIL quite literally takes you on a journey of discovery from the well-known blended whiskies, right through to the sophisticated Highland single-malts that represent the very best that the whisky industry can produce. With visits to distilleries, including Speysideʼs internationally acclaimed Glenfiddich, the entire process is demystified. Not only will you see some of the best known brands coming off the production line, itʼs also well worth looking out for a few of the lesser known treasures, such as a 60% proof, cask strength Whisky from the family run, Glenfarclas. Whatever your level of interest, whether you partake of the occasional wee dram or have an expert nose for the good stuff, thereʼs something here to suit every taste.
Charlie Chaplin: His Life & Work - A Documentary
When Charlie Chaplin was born in London on the 16th of April 1889, no one could have predicted what his future would be. Charlie’s meteoric rise to fame in the pioneering days of the film industry is truly one of the most dramatic rags to riches stories ever told, and the enduring charm of his instantly recognizable “Little Tramp,” continues to thrill film enthusiasts the whole world over to this very day. Chaplin’s life was full of contrasts, from his poverty-stricken childhood in the London slums, right through to his millionaire status as one of the first great celebrities of Hollywood. The treasured black and white silent movies that made Charlie his fortune give a fascinating insight into the character of this great comedian, but to really understand the nature of his genius you need to step back in time. This program will transport you back to Chaplin’s London at the turn of the 20th century and you can see for yourself the influences that were to shape his later work on the silver screen. Trace his footsteps to the workhouse and the lunatic asylum where his beloved mother struggled to overcome poverty and illness, and see the school where Charlie first faced the injustice of authority. Follow the story further with Charlie’s departure for America, as his phenomenal success is charted in precise detail with extracts from his movies providing a stunning backdrop. Every aspect of Chaplin’s life and work, triumphs and disasters, are all explored in order to bring you the real man behind the “Little Tramp’s” mask.
Jack the Ripper: Conspiracies
There was a time when just the whisper of the name "Jack the Ripper" struck terror into the hearts of the brave. It was autumn of 1988, and an evil monster, responsible For committing a series of gruesome murders, was stalking the streets of London. The crimes have never been solved to this day and the story of "Jack the Ripper" is still the stuff of nightmares. Conspiracy theories abound and suspects literally range from British Royalty to the lowest of the low. There is not a soul worldwide, who can resist the challenge of unmasking "Jack the Ripper" and this programme has been presented in such a way as to help both learned expert and amateur sleuth alike do just that! The facts are placed before you, and the conspiracies that have emerged are all considered in their various merits. Visit for yourself the murder sites and make your own judgement on the evidence available, study the achieves and police records and met the women who fell victim to Jack the Ripper's vicious blade. The atmosphere of Victorian London is terrifyingly realistic, so be prepared, this is a journey of discovery that will chill you to the very marrow and you never be able to forget Jack the Ripper and his evil deeds for as long as you live.....