Monday, 1 December 2025

CHRISTMAS COMPETITION: Win Harry Wild Series 1 & 2 DVD, Murder Before Evensong DVD and The Madame Blanc Mysteries Series 1 to 4 DVD

The Madame Blanc Mysteries, Murder Before Evensong,  Harry Wild


Every year we like to run a nice big juicy Chrismas Competition and this year is no different, we have carefully chosen these three titles to give away, as they were some of our favourite releases of the year.

One lucky winner will received Harry Wild Series 1 & 2 DVD, Murder Before Evensong DVD and The Madame Blanc Mysteries Series 1 to 4 DVD.

Literature professor Harriet "Harry" Wild (Jane Seymour, Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman ) is struggling to adjust to her recent retirement when she's mugged.

While recuperating at the home of her son, Charlie (Kevin Ryan, The South Westerlies), a senior detective in the Dublin police, Harry reads his case files and notices that his current murder inquiry bears striking similarities to an obscure Elizabethan play. After Charlie rebuffs her input, Harry decides to find the killer herself to prove she was right. Little does she realise that this decision will lead to a whole new life.

Murder Before Evensong - https://amzn.to/4ptZ3jf
Daniel shares Champton rectory with his widowed mother – opinionated, fearless, ever-so-slightly annoying Audrey – and his two dachshunds. When Daniel announces a plan to install a lavatory in the church, the parish is suddenly (and unexpectedly) divided: as lines are drawn, long-buried secrets come dangerously close to destroying the apparent calm of the village. And then a body is found dead at the back of the church, stabbed in the neck with a pair of secateurs. As the police move in and the bodies start piling up, Daniel is the only one who can try and keep his fractured community together… and catch a killer.

The Madame Blanc Mysteries - https://amzn.to/48aF6aP
We are back in the beautiful town of Ste. Victoire in the South of France, packed with unusual antiques and objets d’art, murder, mystery, sunshine and laughter.

Dom and Jean prove that the course of true love never runs smooth as they negotiate their budding romance together while solving a brand-new set of mysteries which include a brutal murder in a magical Christmas market and unravelling the curse of an Egyptian God, as always, ending up in La Couronne with Uncle Patrick to enjoy a well-earned glass of wine.

Enter now for a chance to win.

Which actors play Harriet "Harry" Wild, Canon Daniel Clement and Jean White in these three series?

Send your name, address and of course the answer to competition365@outlook.com

Quick Terms and conditions
1. Closing date 15-12-25
2. No alternative prize is available
3. When the competition ends as indicated on this page, any and all entries received after this point will not count and emails blacklisted due to not checking this page first.
4. Winners will be chosen randomly and will be informed via email.
5. Entries that come directly from other websites will not be accepted.

COMPETITION: Win Art Detectives on DVD

Art Detectives


Acorn Media International has announced Art Detectives is set for its DVD and digital release on 8 December 2025.

And to celebrate we have a copy on DVD to give away!

Synopsis:
The thrilling six-part series sees Moyer return to the small screen as art-loving detective Mike Palmer, who’s drawn into the world of heists, forgeries and murder, alongside his straight-talking partner DC Shazia Malik, played by Nina Singh (The Lazarus Project). The pair must navigate the rich and colourful world of cultural crime, filled with greed, obsession, lust and revenge. The stellar cast includes Sarah Alexander (Stardust, Green Wing) as museum curator Rosa Conaghan and national treasure Larry Lamb (Gavin and Stacey, Eastenders) as Mike’s fraudulent father, Ron Palmer. 
 
DI Mick Palmer (Moyer) leads the Heritage Crime Unit, investigating murders and thefts in the shadowy world of priceless art and antiquities. When the sharp young DC Shazia Malik (Singh) helps him solve the brutal killing of an art historian, the two partner up, diving headlong into a raft of high-stakes cases. 
 
Together, the artfully astute detectives investigate everything from a Viking hoard smuggled from a prehistoric grave to dark family secrets at a Cornish recording studio, there’s sabotage at a wine tasting and the death of a millionaire obsessed the Titanic, brings on a sinking feeling to the proceedings. 
 
While Shazia adapts to life away from her overprotective family, Mick explores a budding romance with museum curator Rosa (Alexander), while navigating the shocking return of his absent father Ron, who just happens to be one of Britain’s most notorious art forgers. 
 
Crafting wonderfully creative storylines, mesmerising artwork and the edge-of-your-seat twists, Art Detectives unveils a new gripping, character-driven crime drama where every work of art hides a motive. 

Pre-Order from https://amzn.to/3M9UNGL

Enter now for a chance to win.

Who plays DC Shazia Malik in Art Detectives?

Send your name, address and of course the answer to competition365@outlook.com

Quick Terms and conditions
1. Closing date 15-12-25
2. No alternative prize is available
3. When the competition ends as indicated on this page, any and all entries received after this point will not count and emails blacklisted due to not checking this page first.
4. Winners will be chosen randomly and will be informed via email.
5. Entries that come directly from other websites will not be accepted.

COMPETITION: Win The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon Season 3 on Blu-ray


Acorn Media International has announced The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon Season 3 and Seasons 1 – 3 Box Set will arrive on Blu-ray and DVD 8 December 2025.

And to celebrate we have a copy on blu-ray to give away!

Synopsis:
Season three sees some newcomers join the cast including Óscar Jaenada (The Losers, Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides), Hugo Arbues (Past Lies) and Candela Saitta (Maxima) alongside British comedy favourite Stephen Merchant (The Office, Extras) in a show-stopping guest appearance. 
 
We join Daryl and Carol amidst the devastating ruins of London, where they encounter Julian (Merchant), a reclusive survivor who believes he’s the last living man in England. When a desperate escape across the Channel ends in disaster, the pair end up shipwrecked on the Spanish coast and thrust into a volatile new world of survivors, zealots and hidden agendas.  
 
As they navigate the sun-scorched landscapes and broken strongholds of post-apocalyptic Spain, they become entangled with a struggling community led by the principled Antonio (Eduardo Noriega – Open Your Eyes, The Last Stand) and fiercely independent Paz (Alexandra Masangkay – The Platform, Code Name: Emperor). Bound by loyalty, yet divided by conscience, Daryl and Carol must confront their own haunted pasts and decide whether to keep moving towards home or stay – in the hope that their displacement may finally have a purpose. 
  
Balancing gore-filled action and gripping twists with dynamite chemistry and a striking European backdrop, The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon Season 3 proves once again that there’s still plenty more life in The Walking Dead. 

Pre-Order from https://amzn.to/4rJKbPc

Enter now for a chance to win.

What is the name of the character played by Stephen Merchant in TWD:DD?

Send your name, address and of course the answer to competition365@outlook.com

Quick Terms and conditions
1. Closing date 15-12-25
2. No alternative prize is available
3. When the competition ends as indicated on this page, any and all entries received after this point will not count and emails blacklisted due to not checking this page first.
4. Winners will be chosen randomly and will be informed via email.
5. Entries that come directly from other websites will not be accepted.

Saturday, 29 November 2025

Sam Mitchell Faces a Life Changing Diagnosis in EastEnders

EastEnders

Image: BBC Press/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron

By Jon Donnis

EastEnders will bring a powerful and timely storyline to screens this December as Sam Mitchell learns she has breast cancer soon after her return to Walford. Her discovery begins quietly when she finds a lump in her breast, something she tries to keep to herself. That silence does not last long. Her unsettled behaviour raises concern among those closest to her, and with Jack, Denise and finally Phil stepping in, Sam is persuaded to see a doctor and get the lump examined.

The results confirm her fears. Sam is diagnosed with breast cancer. The early appointment proves crucial, though, as her swift action means she can make a full recovery. Scenes airing in the New Year will show her undergoing a lumpectomy to remove the lump and move forward with her treatment. The storyline follows each step of her journey, from her hesitation about seeking help through to diagnosis and the procedure itself. It aims to underline the importance of speaking to a medical professional when something feels different or worrying.

To tell Sam's story with care and accuracy, EastEnders has been working closely with Breast Cancer Now and leading experts. Executive Producer Ben Wadey stresses how essential that collaboration has been, explaining that Sam's reluctance to ask for help mirrors the experience of many people. He highlights that with support from family and friends, she takes action quickly, and because her cancer is caught early she is able to have the lump removed successfully in the New Year. Sally Kum from Breast Cancer Now adds that Sam's situation will feel familiar to many viewers. She explains that the charity's work and insight have helped guide the portrayal so it feels authentic, and she reinforces the message that early diagnosis offers the best chance of successful treatment. The storyline serves as a reminder of the importance of checking your breasts, recognising the signs and symptoms, and speaking to a GP about any new changes.

A Celebration of the UK’s Most Iconic Basslines

Greatest Basslines

Image: Sky TV Press

By Jon Donnis

A new nationwide poll has crowned the most unforgettable basslines in British music culture, and Queen have taken a remarkable four places within the top ten. The research arrives as part of the launch for Greatest Basslines, a three part documentary from aired on Sky Arts and NOW on Friday 28 November. At the very top sits Queen's Another One Bites the Dust, followed by Michael Jackson's Billie Jean and Queen's Under Pressure. The poll also names John Deacon as the greatest bass player of all time, a result that matches the band's dominant showing across the rankings.

The study, commissioned by Sky and built from the views of two thousand music fans, highlights the grooves that have shaped generations. Fleetwood Mac's The Chain and The Beatles' Come Together feature prominently, as does Ben E King's Stand by Me. The wider top thirty stretches into a broad run of genre defining favourites, including Chic's Good Times, U2's With or Without You and Joy Division's Love Will Tear Us Apart. Peter Hook, known for his work with Joy Division and New Order, reflects on the importance of these riffs with a wry memory of being asked to stick to simple root notes. His refusal then and now underlines his belief that basslines form the pulse of countless classics, and he voices little surprise at John Deacon's leading position.

The poll also reveals how listeners view the instrument itself. Nearly half of respondents think bassists are the coolest members of any band, while close to two thirds feel the instrument does not get the recognition it deserves. A memorable rhythm sits at the heart of any truly iconic bassline according to more than half the participants, with many also agreeing that the part should be strong enough to drive the entire song.

Greatest Basslines explores the stories behind these riffs through interviews with musicians, producers and devoted fans. Each episode is shaped by a legendary bassist who offers personal insight into the craft and its influence across styles and eras. Peter Hook authors the first episode which airs on Friday 28 November at nine. Melissa Auf der Maur leads the second the following evening, and Nate Mendel brings the series to a close on Sunday 30 November at the same time. The series will be available on Sky Arts, Freeview and the streaming service NOW, giving viewers a deep dive into the grooves that continue to echo through music history.

A New Era Begins for 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown

8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown

Image: Channel 4 Press

By Jon Donnis

Filming has kicked off for the twenty ninth series of 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, and the show arrives with a fresh mix of familiar faces and new energy. Rob Beckett steps into the permanent role of team captain, a move he treats with a mix of pride and cheek as he follows the late Sean Lock. Judi Love joins as a regular returning guest, adding her lively humour to a set already known for its chaos and quick wit. Jon Richardson and Joe Wilkinson remain in the fold, keeping the long running spirit of the show firmly intact.

Jimmy Carr returns to steer the mayhem once more, while Rachel Riley continues to handle the numbers and Susie Dent holds her steady position in Dictionary Corner. Filming will include a Christmas special for 2025, giving viewers the first full look at the refreshed ensemble. Beckett has already had his say, joking that the job proves anyone can fail at spelling and maths and still work their way up. Love offers her own warm take, admitting her number skills might raise eyebrows but promising plenty of laughs along the way.

The guest list for the upcoming run brings in Daisy May Cooper, Katherine Ryan, Harriet Kemsley, Richard Ayoade, Morgana Robinson, Nick Mohammed and Roisin Conaty. It carries on a tradition that began in 2012 when the show aired as a one off special with Sean Lock and Jon Richardson as captains. Since then it has grown into a fixture of Channel 4 comedy, with more than 160 episodes and countless moments that have become classics, from Joe Lycett's complaint letters to the famous Carrot in a Box. The new series arrives through a Channel 4 commission by Cimran Shah, Katie Buckley and Steven Handley, produced by Zeppotron and Lifted Entertainment with Richard Cohen, Ruth Phillips and Barry Hart overseeing the work.

Friday, 28 November 2025

A First Glimpse at Sky’s High-Stakes Thriller Prisoner

Image: Sky TV Press

By Jon Donnis

Sky has released the first image from Prisoner, its upcoming action thriller slated for 2026, and the reveal sets a clear tone for what the series intends to deliver. The project brings together Golden Globe and BAFTA nominee Tahar Rahim with Scottish BAFTA winner Izuka Hoyle, pairing them in a story built around danger, mistrust and a chase that refuses to slow down. Created and written by Matt Charman, with Otto Bathurst directing, the six part series is shaped by a simple idea that quickly becomes complicated. A manhunt begins, and from the moment it does, every step forward becomes a risk.

At the centre of the story is Amber, played by Hoyle, a young prison transport officer who starts her day focused on responsibility rather than danger. Her job is to escort Tibor, played by Rahim, to court where he is meant to testify against a powerful crime syndicate. Tibor is a trained killer and a high value inmate, which already turns the assignment into something far from routine. Things collapse with brutal speed when the convoy is attacked with clear intent to kill. In the wreckage, Amber and Tibor find themselves the only survivors. Still cuffed together and hunted, they are pushed into a situation that neither wanted, forced to move fast in order to stay alive and reach the courtroom before their pursuers close the gap.

The journey that follows pushes them into an uneasy alliance that keeps shifting as the syndicate moves closer. The story leans into the tension between two people who do not trust each other but have no choice except to work together. Trust becomes its own hazard. Survival becomes something that tests Amber's sense of right and wrong, leaving her to confront what she is willing to risk in order to protect what matters most. The setup turns every decision into a question with no comfortable answer.

Prisoner also arrives with a strong supporting cast that reflects the scale of the production. Eddie Marsan, Catherine McCormack, Leonie Benesch, Finn Bennett, Sam Troughton, Laurie Davidson, Ken Nwosu, Brían F. O'Byrne and Youssef Kerkour all feature, bringing a broad range of experience to the story. With its mix of rising danger, shifting loyalties and a pairing forced together under fire, the series promises a tightly wound thriller built around character as much as action. Prisoner will debut on Sky and the NOW streaming service during the 2026 season.