Media Release

11 December 2003 Save a Turkey this Christmas - Don't Serve One! Jenny Seagrove and Viva! have the answer with free festive vegetarian recipes Jenny Seagrove - star of the TV drama John Judge Deed and long-time vegetarian - has joined with the animal campaigns group Viva! to produce a colourful leaflet packed with festive veggie recipes. Called Christmas Celebration Feast, it contains a mouthwatering menu for Christmas day, including starters and main courses, desserts and wonderful ways with accompanying vegetables. Even better, it is absolutely free to anyone who wants a cruelty-free celebration. Jenny Seagrove says: "Christmas is a time for love and laughter, celebration and indulgence, good food and fine wine. It's also a time for compassion - and what better way of spreading peace and goodwill than by making your feast vegetarian so that nothing need die for your day of pleasure." Viva!'s Christmas Celebration Feast gives options for a three-course menu, including choices such as grilled asparagus with walnut sauce and mushrooms and artichokes en croute. A selection of side dishes like Marmite roast potatoes and Brussels sprouts with toasted sesame oil and marmalade offer a twist to the old traditions. Each recipe is laid out in easy-to-follow steps showing just how simple it is to create a gourmet veggie feast. And going veggie doesn't mean missing out on delicious desserts - just try the chocolate and brandy truffle torte - the proof is in the pudding! Thousands of people go veggie every week over concerns about their health and animal welfare. An animal-free diet helps prevent clogged arteries, heart disease, strokes, obesity, gallstones, diabetes and some types of cancer - and there's strong evidence to show that veggies and vegans live, on average, seven years longer than meat-eaters. The best Christmas present you can give yourself - and the animals - is to go vegetarian! Free copies of Christmas Celebration Feast are available from Viva! -end-