InSolihull Magazine Autumn/Winter 2023 by Solihull BID

FREE AUTUMN/ WINTER 2023

A new look feel for this year’s

WINTER WARDROBE

WHAT’S ON?

Katherine Draisey / Competition

Dune London

Kurt Geiger

John Lewis Fashion

Ernest Jones

Polestar

British Legion

Solihull Nights

Solihull BID Excellence Awards

New Openings

Inside

Christmas Desirables

What’s On At Christmas

Winter returns, unwrapping the beauty of nature and igniting nostalgia and cosy thoughts in all of us. This edition is your must have guide and companion for the season, showcasing where to go, what to buy and how to enjoy precious moments with family and friends. Check out the interview with the inspirational young athlete Scott Johns who is following his dreams and is Solihull’s very own Olympic hopeful. Feel free to drool over the desirables, I am hoping to be on Santa’s super nice list for some items on there, but for now the King Charles Christmas Bauble is purchased and awaiting its debut. I hope you enjoy reading about Solihull BID and the stories from our fellow BIDs in the region, we’re all in this together to make our towns and cities a better place. Sending warmest winter wishes from all the team.

with 42 Interview Scott Johns

Core Creatives

Waterstones Focus

Melanie Palmer Chief Executive melanie@solihullbid.co.uk

Desirables Editor in Chief Steven Coney steven@solihullbid.co.uk

The Core Theatre

Mel x

Design Red Banana Design sales@redbananadesign.co.uk

VIP Kids Club

Solihull BID Focus

BID Central Focus

Kurt Geiger

42 44

Interview with Scott Johns Touchwood

Newshound Misty

SUBSCRIBE If you would like to know more about events and have the magazine emailed out to you, subscribe now by visiting www.solihullbid.co.uk For more information on shopping, entertainment and what’s on in Solihull visit: www.solihullbid.co.uk or call: 0121 285 1370

BY MELANIE PALMER

Katherine Draisey

Diffuser My First Baobab Ocean Drive Tangerine-Yuzu-Cedar Price £61

10-12 Drury Lane, Solihull B91 3BG All enquires please phone: Our shop: 0121 704 2233 Ali: 07817499743 San: 07931271130 info@katherinedraisey.com

Katherine Draisey

Baobab Collection Paris Hand Wash 350ml Price £55

The latest addition to the store are the beautiful Baobab candles and diffusers. Enter the competition to be in with a chance to win one of two gift sets, or if you can’t wait pop in store for the perfect Christmas gift. There are candles, and then there are Baobab candles.

Head to our website (www.solihullbid.co.uk/ insolihull-magazine or scan the QR code) and answer the question correctly to be in with a chance of winning one of the Baobab Ocean Drive Gift Box with Candle and Diffuser OR Baobab Paris Gift Box Shower Gel, Body and Hand Lotion. Simply answer the question correctly and you could win one of the amazing sets!

WWW.KATHERINEDRAISEY.COM

COMPETITION

abulous, Urban, Chic. Katherine Draisey is the ultimate in personal shopping experiences, an Aladdin’s cave filled with eclectic styles for all ages.

We’ve teamed up with Katherine Draisey to give away two amazing Baobab gift sets worth £110 each!

SCAN CODE

1. Patent Loafers Black Price £113.99

DUNE LONDON

Born to generations of shoe manufacturers, our founder Daniel Rubin was destined to follow in their footsteps with a shoe empire of his own. In 1992 Dune London was born, beginning as a small concession store on London’s iconic Oxford Street. As the name suggests, Daniel loves London, his home. As the epicentre of fashion with its vibrant, diverse and creative energy, it’s a city that constantly inspires him. We’re London born, globally worn, find out more at our Solihull High Street store.

2. Sulli Leather Loafers Tan Price £120

“I LIKED THE IMAGE OF SAND DUNES CONSTANTLY MOVING AND CHANGING THEIR SHAPE - MUCH LIKE FASHION.”

Daniel Rubin on the inspiration behind the Dune London name.

Clint Tenn Trainers White Price £189

Classify Flare-Heel

Regent Handbag

Gold Price £85

Quilted Leather Black Price £180

Styles - Crossbody Bag Metallic Sequined Grab Bag

Black Price £55

Metallic-Sequined in Gold Price £95

FOR MORE VISIT DUNELONDON.COM

Dune London Solihull 91 High Street, Solihull, B91 3TA 0121 709 0531

KURT GEIGER Mini Leather Kensington

Southbank Tag Sneaker

Metallic Rainbow Price £199

Green Combination Price £179

Pierra Heel Rainbow Price £159

FOR MORE VISIT KURTGEIGER.COM

4. Small Southbank Green Price £139

Visit Kurt Geiger in Touchwood, Solihull and discover their latest styles. Shop Luxury Handbags, Footwear and Accessories. Inspiring and Uniting Through Kindness and Creativity.

Kensington Sneaker

White Price £189

Multi Cross Body

Black Price £149

Kurt Geiger Solihull Touchwood Shopping Centre, Solihull, B91 3RA 0333 034 0544

Snug Styles and Winter Warmers John Lewis Solihull is always a go-to destination for the very best in Autumn/Winter style but did you know they also offer a free Personal Styling service? You can book online or pop into the store for everything from the perfect mother of the bride outfit to a new pair of jeans or a full wardrobe refresh. There’s no obligation and the Personal Styling team are bound to find something you really love and that works well with your existing favourites.

fashion

Solihull

Anyday Quilted Tote Bag Ecru Price £45

look 1. Daniela’s crisp, monochromatic look is based around this fabulous and cosy Jigsaw wool wrap (£130 11401364). Equally at home thrown over jeans as over an evening dress, Daniela has styled it with a knifepleat Reiss skirt (£178 11401364), John Lewis ballet pumps (£55 14223410) and a useful Anyday quilted tote bag (£45 40071506)

DKNY Tote Bag

Army Green Leather Price £200

look 2. Here, stylist Kezia is showcasing a wardrobe staple: the camel overcoat. This one is by Jigsaw and is an investment piece that you’ll reach for year after year (£385 product code:110102174). Playing on the layering trend, she also models a fabulous tweed blazer from John Lewis (£119 110550994) cinched in with a versatile Olivia leather belt by John Lewis (£26 44313902). Kezia carries a DKNY tote bag in army green leather (£200 40690125). Her shoes are Mint Velvet (£69 13428617) 90125).

look 3. Lily’s gone with a timeless trenchcoat from Jigsaw (£284 11400107) which is an essential trans-seasonal item as useful in the English Summer as it is in Autumn! Her eminently practical leather Purcie boots are from John Lewis’ own brand Anyday and they come in camel (£79 13000610) and black (£79 13000604). Lily has pulled the look together with the classic Coach Signature Tabby bag in the perfect Autumnal tan shades (£350 40677723).

John Lewis Solihull Touchwood Shopping Centre, Homer Road, Solihull, B91 3RA 0121 704 1121

Leather Purcie Boots Camel Leather Price £79

Coach Signature Tabby Bag Autumn Tan Price £350

WWW.JOHNLEWIS.COM

Responsible Diamond Sourcing Journey

THE ERNEST JONES

The Responsible Sourcing Journey is at the heart of everything Ernest Jones does. As a brand, they are deeply committed to responsible diamond sourcing, ensuring that every engagement ring and fine jewellery piece in their collection is ethically and sustainably sourced. Their global suppliers work hand in hand with them to maintain the highest standards of integrity, giving customers peace of mind while cherishing these special moments. Discover the perfect engagement ring, knowing it comes with a story of responsibility and care.

ERNEST JONES SOLIHULL 30 Crescent Arcade, Touchwood Shopping Centre, Solihull, B91 3GZ | 0121 709 2166

Conflict Free Diamonds

Diamond Warranty

Learn more

Conflict free diamonds are those that have been sourced and acquired in a way that is respectful of human rights. Through legislation, lengthy processes and transparency in the supply chain, Ernest Jones are helping to successfully stop the flow of conflict diamonds, which are used by rebel movements to finance war and terrorism.

All rough and polished diamonds bought or sold by Ernest Jones include the System of Warranties statement developed by the International Diamond Manufacturers Association, the World Federation of Diamond Bourses and the WDC:

To find out more about Ernest Jones’ policies and commitment to responsible sourcing, please read their Corporate Citizenship and Sustainability Report here: www.signetjewelers. com/sustainability

As part of Ernest Jones’ ongoing efforts to ensure responsible diamond sourcing, they adhere to a five-step guidance process to ensure due diligence is practiced from conflict-affected and high-risk areas. The steps include establishing strong company management systems, identifying risks in the supply chain, implementing strategies to respond to the risks, supporting third-party audits and reporting annually on supply chain due diligence.

“Any natural diamonds herein supplied have been purchased from legitimate sources not involved in funding conflict and in compliance with United Nations Resolutions and corresponding national laws. The seller hereby guarantees that these natural diamonds are conflict-free and confirms adherence to the WDC SOW Guidelines.”

And pop into your local Ernest Jones branch inside Touchwood Shopping Centre in Solihull town centre to discover their range of beautiful, ethically sourced diamonds. ERNEST JONES SOLIHULL 30 Crescent Arcade, Touchwood Shopping Centre, Solihull, B91 3GZ | 0121 709 2166

Ernest Jones also distinguish between natural diamonds and laboratory grown diamonds using special detection equipment and verification instruments under the ASSURE standard. This gives customers complete peace of mind and confidence when buying from them.

ERNEST JONES 13

WWW.SOLIHULLRBLCLUB.COM

The welcoming feel you encounter when first stepping inside Broomfields Hall (Solihull RBL Club) is rarely found elsewhere.

There’s also a large meeting room available to hire for local businesses and community groups at £20 per hour.

The Club has undergone significant upgrades in recent times with an extension to the rear being built as we speak.

And there are car parking spaces available to local employees (including three EV charging points) at £90 per month (inc VAT). The secure car park is monitored 24 hours a day and is just a couple of minutes walk from Solihull town centre on Union Road.

The venue continues to evolve and is now a thriving community hub with a packed calendar of events for the whole family. Whatever you’re looking for from your entertainment, there will be something for you: 1.) Seasonal events (New Year’s Eve with fireworks; Santa’s Grotto; August Summer Fete; Summer BBQs) 2.) Regular events (Tribute acts every six weeks; regular community group meetings; Afternoon Tea on Tuesdays; Pub Quizzes and Open Mic Nights) 3.) Live Sports shown as well as large snooker room 4.) Live music including regular Jazz bands.

@BroomfieldsHallRBL

@solihull_rbl_club

Broomfields Hall (Solihull RBL Club) 18 Union Road, Solihull, B91 3DH 0121 705 0742 bookings@solihullrblclub.co.uk

Solihull RBL Club

MEMBERSHIP Membership of Broomfields Hall (Solihull RBL Club) is just £30 per year with a one-off joining fee of £10. Entry to the Club also means you have access to the wide-range of very affordable food and drink. Lunches served 12-3pm, Wednesday - Saturday

4 4 U ppe r J ub il ee Wal k , To u chwood, S ol ih ul l , B9 1 3 Q W 0121 7 04 3 2 84 Come on down to Tio Latino and join in on the fun! Looking for a boozy brunch to start your weekend? Look no further than their Bottomless Brunch, where you can enjoy unlimited margaritas and delicious Latin American dishes that will leave you feeling satisfied and ready to take on the day. If you’re a Latino music lover, they’ve got you covered with their special Live Music Nights, that will get you dancing to the beats of salsa, reggaeton, cumbia and bachata. Join them for the ultimate experience of Latin American culture, featuring food and drink specials in an electric atmosphere! To check out the latest events and book your table, visit www.tiolatino.com

WWW. TIOLATINO.COM

TI O L AT IN O S OL IH U L L

Ar r owsmiths at O ’Ne i l l ’s

K IB OU S OL IH U L L

Po plar Road Sol i hull 0 121 71 1 3761

1 3 4 H ig h St reet , S ol ih ul l , B 91 3 S X 0 1 2 1 3 87 2 4 0 0

This interactive darts experience will hit the bullseye this Christmas!

Head to KIBOU for some Japaneseinspired festive fun!

Organise a Christmas night out your guests will never forget and take flight into the ultimate festive get-together at Arrowsmiths Solihull.

If you’re looking for somewhere special to celebrate this Christmas, but aren’t looking for that usual turkey affair, then come and discover a festive Japanese feast at KIBOU in Solihull.

Get competitive with colleagues or merciless with mates during a night of interactive darts in Solihull. Whether it’s a small gathering or big group, they’ve got plenty of room to host your perfect party. Organise your guest list and book a Christmas bash that no-one will forget!

This Christmas, alongside all their regular dishes, they’re also running a festive set menu, and a sharing menu that’s perfect for groups of 6 or more – both available from 20th November until the end of the year.

To view the Christmas menu and book, visit www.oneills.co.uk WWW.ONEILLS.CO.UK

16 - 24 Po pl a r R o a d, S o l i hu l l , B9 1 3 A B 0121 227 57 21 Dance the night away and bring in 2024 in style! Get ready for the most epic New Year’s Eve party as Popworld welcome the incredible DJ Neil J to the decks, delivering the best pop, party, and club classics all night long. Step into a magical world as the venue transforms into Neverland inspired by Peter Pan and never growing up! Expect enchanting decorations, stunning visuals, and a truly immersive experience that will transport you to a land of adventure and wonder. Tickets for this unforgettable night start from just £10, so don’t miss out on securing your spot. Last entry is at 3am, giving you plenty of time to celebrate the countdown to 2024 in style.

WWW.KIBOU.CO.UK/CHRISTMAS2023

PO PW O R L D S O L I HUL L

K IB OU ’ s F est iv e Men u s : Priced at just £35 per person, KIBOU’s 3-course Set Festive Menu features a range of the restaurant’s most popular dishes, such as prawn or vegetable tempura to start, and salmon or chicken teriyaki for main. There’s also a range of decadent Japanese-inspired desserts to enjoy as well. Or for groups of 6 or more, their Festive Sharing Menu is a must, with platters of freshly made sushi and sashimi, alongside dishes such as dynamite prawns (tempura prawns in a miso sweet chilli sauce), a selection of deliciously filled pillowy bao buns, finished off with one of their delicious Japanese-inspired desserts. Prices for the sharing menu start from £35 per person with dessert for the vegetarian version, or £40 per person including dessert for the regular sharing menu. To view all the Festive Menus at KIBOU and book your table, visit www.kibou.co.uk/christmas2023

Book your tickets now, visit www. popworldparty.co.uk/solihull

WWW.POPWORLDPARTY.CO.UK

The creative and hard-working businesses shortlisted for the annual Solihull BID Excellence Awards have been revealed.

Recognising outstanding businesses large and small, the Excellence Awards showcase exactly why Solihull town centre is such an exciting place to visit and work in.

Over 100 entries were received for the red-carpet celebration, organised by the town centre’s Business Improvement District, and the winners will be crowned at the Excellence Awards evening, taking place on Friday, November 24th at voco St John’s Hotel on Warwick Road.

This year’s awards features seven categories: Hospitality & Leisure Venue of the Year, Best Independent Business, Best Customer Service, The John Callaghan Award – Young Person of the Year, Outstanding Team of 2023, Outstanding Corporate Social Responsibility Project and Outstanding Contribution to the Town Centre.

The Solihull BID Excellence Awards have been kindly sponsored by Phoebus Software, Touchwood, Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council, Veolia and Solihull College & University Centre. The evening’s Welcome Drinks are kindly sponsored by HSBC UK.

Melanie Palmer, Chief Executive of Solihull BID, said: “The Excellence Awards nominations are at one of the highest levels this year and our judges sifting through the overwhelming number of applications had a difficult time arriving at the shortlists.

“It is fabulous to see the John Callaghan Outstanding Young Person of the Year award with such a high level of exceptional entries – congratulations to all those shortlisted! “We look forward to meeting the worthy winners at the Gala evening in November. Best of luck to all the talented and innovative businesses and individuals that have taken part.“ To book tickets for the awards ceremony, please visit www.solihullbid.co.uk/awards

olihull continues to buck the national trend by attracting new national brands and independent businesses to the town centre.

competitor towns.

Interest in Solihull remains high and it’s not hard to see why with a safe and welcoming environment and footfall figures that continue to stay ahead of

Whether you’re enjoying Mell Square, strolling up the High Street or checking out Touchwood, there are plenty of new businesses ready to welcome you. Who will be your new favourite?

Studio 7 Tattoos Studio 7 is a custom tattoo studio based in Solihull also offering piercings, laser removal and a barbers. Studio 7 are dedicated to artistic excellence within a warm, inclusive atmosphere. Their skilled artists specialize in contemporary tattoos that cater to all skin tones and body types. 699 Warwick Road, Solihull, B91 3DA www.facebook.com/Studio7Tattoos 0121 296 9569

KFC Freshly prepared daily, using only the finest ingredients, KFC has something for everyone. The Colonel’s secret blend of 11 herbs and spices give KFC chicken its unique taste that has now arrived in Solihull town centre. 42 Station Road, Solihull, B91 3RX www.kfc.co.uk

Cenu Cacao

Grounded Kitchen

Cenu Cacao is a “bean to bar” chocolate shop. Therefore, as you walk in, not only will you be welcomed by a fresh aroma of chocolate, but you can also watch it being prepared right in front of you. Their chocolates are baked using Aztec methods, making Cenu Cacao one of the first chocolate bars to do this in the West Midlands.

Grounded Kitchen is a new casual dining restaurant with a focus on Korean and Asian-inspired cuisine, this eatery combines fresh, balanced ingredients with bold and tantalising flavours. Grounded Kitchen goes beyond just serving punchy flavours; it aims to support a healthier and happier lifestyle by using only the finest and freshest ingredients.

Poplar Arcade, Touchwood, Solihull, B91 3GJ www.cenucacao.co.uk

18 Jubilee Walk, Touchwood, Solihull, B91 3HT www.groundedkitchen.com

Cris Wong Art Studio

Holland & Barrett

Cris Wong Art Studio focus on art education and skill development. They offer a wide range of courses, workshops, and training programs that cater to diverse interests and needs. Classes provided include Acrylic painting, water colour painting, calligraphy, sketching, and mixed media.

Holland & Barrett is one of the world’s leading health and wellness retailers and the largest in Europe supplying its customers with a wide range of vitamins, minerals, health supplements, specialist foods and natural beauty products. Check out their brand new store in Touchwood, not far from their old one!

33 Drury Lane, Solihull, B91 3BP www.criswongartstudio.wixsite.com/crisart 07826 103 168

Unit 67 Crescent Arcade, Touchwood, Solihull, B91 3GZ www.hollandandbarrett.com 0330 058 2640

Nails by Christina

Cacao Coffee & Chocolate Co

Nails by Christina salon is home to experienced technicians offering natural nail services and a variety of eyelash extensions and treatments. Your new go-to destination, ready to experience the ‘Nails by Christina ‘difference?

Cacao Coffee & Chocolate Co are an independent cafe serving high-quality food & beverages, specialising in their delicious Belgian Hot Chocolate & Freshly Roasted Coffee. They also serve Milkshakes, Paninis, Toasties, Waffles, Pancakes, Fresh Cakes and so much more!

9 Drury Lane, Solihull, B91 3BB Facebook: Nails by Christina 0121 294 2699

Crescent Arcade, Touchwood, Solihull, B91 3GJ www.facebook.com/cacaocoffeechocco

Beyond Dental When you choose Beyond Dental as your private dentist in Solihull, you will experience dentistry as it should be. Often people see a visit to the dentist as a chore, but they are ready and waiting to change your opinion! King Edward House, 48 High Street, Solihull, B91 3TB www.beyond-dental.co.uk/solihull/ 0121 752 7764

The Veggie Shelf

Astraea Designs

Solihull town centre’s very first Asian grocery shop. The Veggie Shelf are passionate about providing customers with the freshest and most nutritious produce available.

Its first permanent holistic store in Solihull, Astraea Designs offers visitors a full range of wellness and mystical items including crystals, aromatic incense, engraved merchandise, tarot cards, and divination tools.

52 Drury Lane, Solihull, B91 3BH www.theveggieshelf.com 07901 326767

48 Drury Lane, Drury Arcade, Solihull, B91 3BH www.astraeadesigns.co.uk 0121 820 3998

Futon Company Futon Company has been supplying quality futons and small space living furniture for over 40 years. They are a small British company specialising in innovative space saving furniture, unique textiles and ingenious accessories. Almost all of it is designed in house, or by designers they have come to know over the years. Units 1 and 2, Saddlers Court, 650-654 Warwick Road, Solihull, B91 3DX www.futoncompany.co.uk 0121 269 6001

SHORTLISTS REVEALED FOR SOLIHULL TOWN CENTRE BUSINESS AWARDS

Excellence Awards 2023

AWARDS SHORTLISTS 2023 HOSPITALITY & LEISURE VENUE OF THE YEAR KIBOU Solihull Summer Fest The Woods Tio Latino Touchwood BEST INDEPENDENT BUSINESS Play Lane Solihull Summer Fest Studio 7 Tattoos The Woods Yakinori BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE Holland & Barrett Metro Bank Mint Velvet The Woods Yakinori THE JOHN CALLAGHAN AWARD – YOUNG PERSON OF THE YEAR Alexander Kemp (Metro Bank) Alisha Akram (Phoebus Software) Ben Perks (Toffs) Jack Docker (John Lewis Solihull) Mitchell Watkins (Mell Square) Onkar Tiwana (Phoebus Software)

OUTSTANDING TEAM OF 2023 Davisons Law HSBC John Lewis Solihull (Health & Wellbeing Team) St Alphege Neighbourhood Policing Team The Woods OUTSTANDING CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY PROJECT Paragon Banking Group Phoebus Software Touchwood OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO THE TOWN CENTRE Charles Yearwood (Head Doorman of The Masons Arms) Ian Rogers (Founder of Solihull Summer Fest) PC Rob Rumney (St Alphege Neighbourhood Policing Officer) Play Lane Steve Cave and Dave Checkley (Solihull town centre street cleansing team)

Judges

Sir Nigel Thrift Chair of the Committee on Radioactive Waste Management and Lead of the Solihull group of Deputy Lieutenants

Dr Marcia McLaughlin Founder and Editor in Chief of The Phoenix Newspaper.

Oli Hills CEO, Nonsensical

Alethea Fuller Deputy Chief Executive, West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner

Mark Rogers Chief Executive, Leadership Centre

Want to find out who the all important winners were? Check out the BID website by scanning the QR code after November 24th.

A desirable Christmas day … Making a silver leather skirt statement entrance into the home cinema room, reach across to pour a glass of champagne from the silver trug, and finally exchange gifts under the tree glinting with the new royal bauble.

John Lewis & Partners John Lewis, Touchwood, Solihull B91 3RA 0121 704 7263 bobbibrown.co.uk

Too much? Probably, but you can dream…

Mint Velvet 122 High St, Solihull B91 3SX 0121 709 4743 mintvelvet.com

Silver Leather Midi Skirt Price £239

Liv’s Mill Lane, Solihull, B91 3BA 0121 709 4636 www.livs.co.uk

the DESIRABLES Bauble - Royal, Matt Green Price £5.99

Winter Edition

SOLIHULLBID.CO.UK

12 Days Of Glow Advent Calendar

Price £195

Fraser Hart 102 High St, Solihull B91 3TA 0121 709 1132 fraserhart.co.uk

TAG Heuer Formula 1 Quartz 43mm Grey Orange Detail Steel Case Watch Price £1,600

6. The White Company 2 Mill Lane, Mell Square, Solihull B91 3AX 0121 711 8412 thewhitecompany.com

Sevenoaks Sound and Vision 54 Drury Ln, Mell Square, Solihull B91 3BH 0121 709 0606 sevenoakssoundandvision.co.uk

Design and Installation

Champagne Trug Price £105

Jingle Bell Jog Join Solihull BID to spread plenty of festive cheer this December by donning a Santa suit and completing the Jingle Bell Jog to raise money for homeless charity Change Into Action.

if they also want to get into the Festive spirit, you can enter them for £8 plus booking fee and choose between a Christmas scarf or bandana on the day!

Change into Action is an Alternative Giving Scheme in Solihull, supporting specialist organisations and outreach services working to change the circumstances of rough sleepers and those at risk of becoming Run, walk, dance, jog or jingle your rough sleepers. Working alongside way around our family-friendly agencies such as the West Midlands 2.5km fun run through Solihull Combined Authority, Solihull town centre. Don’t worry about the Metropolitan Borough Council and training, this festive run is about dressing up and coming together with West Midlands Police, Solihull BID hopes to make a lasting difference. friends and family. The Jingle Bell Jog, taking place on Sunday 10th December, will see Solihull town centre swamped with hundreds of Santas.

Every single person who completes the 2.5km course will be given a special Santa Suit in which to complete the jog, and a Santa medal and Solihull BID hessian bag at the finish line. As well as having plenty of fun, your entrance fee will help raise vital funds for the Change Into Action charity. Registrations cost £15 for adults; £8 for children under 12, plus booking fees. You can also help by raising money with your Jingle Bell Dog! Your pooch can join you on the day for free but

The race starts and ends in Mell Square, Solihull. To sign up, please head to the Solihull BID website – www.solihullbid.co.uk - or scan the QR code.

When: Sunday, December 10th Where: Mell Square, Solihull town centre Cost: £15 for Adults; £8 for Children (4 – 12); £8 for dogs, plus booking fee Please note, you are entering this fun run at your own risk. SCAN THE QR CODE TO GET YOUR TICKETS!

Festive Feast 15th - 23rd december Held every December, our Festive Feast gives you the perfect excuse to take a break from that hectic Christmas shopping and enjoy a mulled wine and mince pie! Organised by Solihull BID, the Festive Feast has been a huge hit since 2019, getting the whole of the town centre in the Christmas spirit. We partner with market experts RR Events and their Continental Street Market to ensure Solihull isn’t short of Festive cheer. Shoppers are treated to flavours from around the world with a wide range of hot foods to sample and cold items to take home for that Christmas pantry to share with your nearest and dearest. The Festive Feast will be in Solihull town centre between December 15th – 23rd.

Christmas Family Fun Day Saturday, 16th December Join us just before Christmas for our family fun day in Solihull, bringing free festive activities into the town centre. What says Christmas more than Father Christmas and his reindeers? You can meet them both from 10am and then add a touch of sparkle to your children’s faces with the free face painting, Glitter Horsebox and photobooth!

The amazing Bubbleologist will also be on hand to get kids jumping with amazement as his huge bubbles fill the Solihull sky. Finish the day off with a walk round our Festive Feast market and treat yourself to some Christmas delights!

10.00 - 14.00

Meet our two reindeers

10.00 - 13.30

Meet Father Christmas!

10.00 - 15.00

Visit the Glitter Horsebox and free photobooth!

11.00 - 15.00

Bubbleologist performances

11.00 - 15.00

Free face painting!

Magical Moments at Touchwood Saturday 25th November – Sunday 24th December Santa is back in residence this year at his enchanted Christmas grotto. He’s eagerly waiting to receive wish lists and sprinkle a little festive fun. Visit the big man himself, whilst he writes in his good book at his desk. The Grotto is located in The Atrium. Saturday 18th November Sunday 19th November Grinch’s Grotto Takeover With lashing of cheekiness and a coating of soot, for one weekend only, the mischievous Grinch is taking over Christmas at Touchwood. All proceeds from the Grinch’s Grotto Takeover are in aid of the Touchwood Charity of the Year. Be sure to book online so that the elves can reserve your space! www.eventsattouchwood.co.uk/christmas

TO FIND OUT MORE VISIT WWW.SOLIHULLBID.CO.UK

Cineworld Solihull Touchwood Shopping Centre Solihull B91 3QW 0330 333 4444 www.cineworld.co.uk/cinemas/solihull

Wonka 8th DecembeR The story will focus specifically on a young Willy Wonka and how he met the Oompa-Loompas on one of his earliest adventures.

Ones to watch Wish 24th NovembeR Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Wish” is an all-new musicalcomedy welcoming audiences to the magical kingdom of Rosas, where Asha, a sharp-witted idealist, makes a wish so powerful that it is answered by a cosmic force—a little ball of boundless energy called Star. Together, Asha and Star confront a most formidable foe—the ruler of Rosas, King Magnifico—to save her community and prove that when the will of one courageous human connects with the magic of the stars, wondrous things can happen.

CINEWORLD CHRISTMAS GIFTING RANGE For the perfect gift this Christmas, visit Cineworld.co.uk for a great range of Gift Cards and Gift Boxes

The Studio at the

CORE THEATR

There is lots to enjoy at the intimate Studio space at the Core Theatre, including comedy nights, theatre, spooky stories and more!!

GHOST OF A SMILE

Ghost of a Smile 22 November “Woman In Black” meets “The 39 Steps”, Ghost of a Smile on 22 November is a spine-tingling show of storytelling and theatrical inventiveness... Two yarns that will chill - and charm!

MURDER ON THE NILE Murder on the Nile 19-21 January Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Nile comes to Solihull on 19-21 January, as theatre group Harlequinade present one of Agatha Christie’s most intriguing murder mysteries, set in the exotic location of a boat on the river Nile.

LAFFACINO Laffacino Friday 17 November Join us for our brand-new comedy night, Laffacino, on Friday 17 November. Laffacino is a new-material comedy night, where acts of all kinds are invited to the stage to try out their latest

works in front of an audience in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Enjoy a night of super friendly, shambolic fun, hosted and curated by comedian Rach Sambrooks.

View the full programme and book your tickets at www.thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk or call the Box Office on 0121 704 6962.

The new creative hub for Solihull! What’s on offer at Core Creatives:

Core Creatives is a new creative hub and networking space based on the first floor of The Core in central Solihull (next to Touchwood), that aims to benefit creative and cultural professionals living, working, and studying in Solihull.

1.) Meeting and collaboration spaces 2.) Access to digital technology 3.) Agile desk space to pre-book or drop in

Designed in conjunction with local creatives and funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, Core Creatives aims to help local creatives to grow and develop their practice by enabling collaboration, experimentation and business growth.

4.) Project support and advocacy 5.) Free training tailored for creative and cultural professionals 6.) Business to business support 7.) Exposure to new audiences 8.) Networking opportunities

It’s completely free to join Core Creatives and tap into a wealth of FREE resources and training, as well as the opportunity to meet and network with other creative professionals in the area.

The co-working space has allowed me to form valuable connections and develop a support community which just did not exist in Solihull beforehand.

FOR MORE EMAIL US AT corecreatives@solihull.gov.uk

NEW OPENING Alioli

Katie Holtom is a Core Creatives member and Creative Producer and artist, specialising in working with communities and children and young people. Katie says, “Core Creatives has given me the support to springboard my career in only my second year of freelancing. The co-working space has allowed me to form valuable connections and develop a support community which just did not exist in Solihull beforehand. It puts creatives of all experiences on the same level to collaborate, share knowledge and develop together.

KATIE HOLTOM

“It has also been a huge financial benefit in the current cost-of-living crisis, providing professional space to work and host meetings, as well as having the incredibly valuable opportunity of CPD which is so rarely accessed for free. These sessions have been instrumental to my development and progression both as a producer and artist, with a fantastic span of session focuses.”

www.solihull.gov.uk/arts-culture/core-creatives

The co-working space has allowed me to form valuable connections and develop a support community which just did not exist in Solihull beforehand.

WWW.WATERSTONES.COM

The Wager (Non-Fiction; History) by David Grann Narrative history at its very best. The Wager is the story of the eponymous vessel, which went missing in the 18th century while on a secret mission to capture a treasure-filled Spanish galleon. When two separate groups of survivors made it back to England, six months apart and with conflicting narratives regarding the events of their perilous adventure, it started a bitter court martial - with deadly consequences for the guilty party…

MOST RECOMMENDED

Book Picks!

Festive greetings one and all! Here at Waterstone’s we have once again struggled to pick from the many magical books that have been published this Autumn/Winter. What follows is the final shortlist of our extremely long list, which we feel

showcases some of the best, cosy and amazing books we have on offer.

As ever, please feel free to visit us in-store where we will happily tell you about more of the fantastic books available.

The Forager’s Calendar (Non-Fiction; Nature) by John Wright

The Pumpkin Spice Cafe (Fiction) by Laurie Gilmore This book looks delicious, it sounds delicious - it is delicious! And it couldn’t be more Autumnal if it tried. With all the classic romance tropes, you’ll be reaching for your own pumpkin spiced lattes and headed out on breezy Autumn walks through crunchy leaves. One for fans of Gilmore Girls and cosy romance. An Autumn must!

WATERSTONES | HIGH STREET SOLIHULL, PHONE NUMBER 0121 711 2454

John Wright, a forager extraordinaire who has worked for River Cottage, provides us with a simple, authoritative monthly guide to all things free in the great British outdoors. This book is a cornucopia of important information and will get you out there foraging at all times of the year! A must have!

Divine Rivals (Teen Fiction; Fantasy) by Rebecca Ross

Old Rage (Non-Fiction; Biography) by Sheila Hancock

‘Rich and romantic - if stories had scent, this one would smell like a mug of black tea, the ink ribbons of a typewriter, and that addictive spice called enemies to lovers’.

Sheila Hancock is an acting legend in her nearly-ninth decade. This book sees her open up about her life - and other things - in starkly honest detail. It’s fresh, it’s fierce and it’s funny. Raw and uncensored, Sheila shows us that those of a certain age may feel rage but they are also extremely sage!

Super Duper Slay!

A Christmas Carol (Fiction; Classics) by Charles Dickens What better way to celebrate the festive season than with THE eponymous Christmas book? Charles Dickens’ classic tale of miserly Scrooge is still as relevant today - maybe more so - than it ever was. So gather your people around the fire on Christmas Eve, settle in and enjoy his “ghostly little book”! Now: “Marley was dead to begin with...”

My Friend the Octopus (Children’s 9-12) by Lindsay Galvin A classic Victorian mystery set in 1893, following 12 year old Vinnie Fyfe who works in the tea shop at Brighton Aquarium. The arrival of a giant octopus at the aquarium changes her life forever. A touching friendship, gripping mystery and marvellous storytelling!

Our VIP Kids Club has been a huge hit since we launched it back in the summer with thousands of families now involved. The VIP Kids Club highlights all of the fantastic activities we have going on in Solihull town centre, especially for children – the majority of which are free. We understand that times are hard for everyone at the moment so we are determined to keep bringing high quality, free entertainment and activity into the town centre so the entire local community can get involved. From children’s discos to facepainting, from sticker trails to vintage bus tours and from zombie dance workshops to meeting an 18-metre long whale – Solihull town centre has been a hive of free, family activities.

WWW.SOLIHULLBID.CO.UK/KIDSCLUB

To keep up to date with everything we have on offer for children and families, join our free VIP Kids Club today and you’ll never miss out! You’ll receive newsletters letting you know what’s coming to town so you can plan your next trip to our safe, welcoming and vibrant town centre. Scan the QR code to sign up or head to www.solihullbid.co.uk/kidsclub

V IP

Solihull BID focus Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) were originally established in Canada and America then migrated to the UK back in 2005. BIDs are a not-forprofit business funded organisation, developed in defined areas of towns and cities, there are over 350 BIDs across the UK working hard to keep the area safe, connected and thriving. The Solihull Business Improvement District is the foundation on which we can build an even greater town centre for all. For the past 14 years, we’ve grown, inspired and innovated. Resulting in a reduction in crime, increase in footfall and the introduction of a stunning events calendar, plus much more.

Jazz Festival

Food Festival

WWW.SOLIHULLBID.CO.UK

All BIDs are democratically elected every five years. Businesses in the BID catchment review the business plan and projects before having the opportunity to vote yes or no to having a BID in the area. It is a simple but effective method of creating a microclimate of business support, communication, specialist security, innovative events and direct marketing. Solihull BID is one of the leading BIDs in the region. Melanie Palmer leads Solihull BID, and is also the regional chair for the Association of Town and City Management, and is founder and chair of BID Central. To find out more visit www.solihullbid.co.uk

INSOLIHULL

MAGAZINE

Ojay McDonald, Chief Executive Officer of the Association of Town & City Management

BID Central was born 8 years ago whilst I was searching for answers to everyday BID related issues and a platform to share best practice to peers within the business. I am proud to say the non-membership organisation is still going strong and our reach has extended to BIDs in Hereford and Sandwell who join our familiar faces from over 30 BIDs including those in Birmingham, Cheltenham, and Leamington. BIDs are so critical to the survival of our High Streets and Town Centres, here’s just a few news stories from BIDs across the region to showcase the difference we make. If you want to know more about Solihull BID and our projects see www.solihullbid.co.uk

Halesowen BID – Halesowen, Dudley 1.

Halesowen Business Awards

Multicultural Day

Black Country Day

4. Hello Halesowen, Black Country 5.

Radio – Promoting local businesses

6. Ballot launch

BIDs are critical to town centre regeneration. With all the pressure put on local businesses through the changes in shopping trends and such. BIDs help to bring footfall to town centres through hosting event which in turn boosts the local economy. Support for local businesses is paramount to their success. BIDs do not replace support from local authorities but enhance their services. They help to make town centres a destination of choice improving the aesthetic appeal with improvement to public realm and projects such as Britain in Bloom. BIDs celebrate local businesses, community, heritage promoting the local area and putting our town centres on the map.

WWW.SOLIHULLBID.CO.UK

“Town centres are places dependent on a range of stakeholders with different needs. Their success is dependent on partnership and coordination. BIDs have become an essential vehicle for bringing a diverse private sector together with one voice, pooling investment and helping to create a shared vision. It does not matter what the challenge is, pandemic, cost of living, changes in consumer behaviour, BIDs can adapt to support levy payers through times of immense change.”

The JQBID - Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham The JQBID are working with partners to give local businesses, residents and visitors pride in the area. As part of the Adopt a Station project, which brought in £70k in private investment, we worked with Jewellery Quarter Academy to refresh planting outside the station. The team are assisted by volunteers with watering, especially MFG solicitors who also sponsored the history timeline installation.

The clean team work weekly with students from Argent College, and organise community litter picks with corporate volunteers and residents. The Jewellery Quarter is filled with more flowers and kept cleaner thanks to hardworking staff and community support.

Colmore BID - Birmingham Chief Constable’s commendation for brave trio who took on knife attacker Three men who bravely intervened to stop a man who was attacking a woman with a knife have a received a commendation from West Midlands Police Chief Constable. Passer-by Paul Fogoe, coffee shop worker Ali Mehmet and Colmore BID security officer James Crooks all got involved to halt the attack, which occurred on 16 August 2022. Mr Fogoe was in Birmingham city centre that day when he witnessed a man attacking a woman with a knife outside a coffee shop. Without hesitating, he rushed towards the attacker, picked up a chair and struck him over the head with it. This caused the man with the knife to fall, allowing Mr Fogoe to place himself between the woman and her attacker.

contacting police about the situation as he did so. Mr Crooks, who was on street patrol in the area at the time, was informed of the incident and made his way to the scene, He spotted Mr Mehmet running after the man with the knife and immediately joined the pursuit. Mr Crooks likewise got in touch with police, relating information to our CCTV operator, which helped us pinpoint the suspect. He also activated his body worn camera to record footage, which would later be used as evidence. Thanks to the quick thinking and courageous actions of all three men, we were able to locate and arrest the attacker, who was later charged with attempted murder. The trio’s intervention may also have ultimately saved the life of the woman who was attacked. She survived the ordeal and was treated for her injuries.

Mr Mehmet, who was in the coffee shop at the time, rushed to the door and dragged the woman inside the shop to safety.

In recognition of their actions, Paul Fogoe, Ali Mehmet and James Crooks received Good Citizen Awards from West Midlands Police Chief Constable Craig Guildford.

The attacker, still armed with the knife, fled the scene and Mr Mehmet immediately gave chase,

All three men are also to receive a Police Public Bravery Silver Medal later this year.

By Melanie Palmer I don’t read books as I prefer to listen to a podcast like the high performance podcast instead to help try and understand a different side of looking at something from my own. Also it allows me to be doing something active like going on the bike at home.

Interview with

SCOTT JOHNS

Local Solihull lad Scott Johns, who attended Dorridge primary school and Arden Academy, is a leading global figure in Ski Cross, flying the flag for Great Britain.

Scott Johns

Scott’s outstanding performance meant he was selected for the GB Youth Olympics team in 2020. COVID and injuries put things on hold for a while, but Scott is now back outperforming the rest with a gold medal in the World University Games this year. As a member of the GB Europa Cup squad, Scott is a likely contender for the Winter Olympics in 2026, I had the pleasure of interviewing this inspirational young athlete, read on to hear more on his meteoric sporting career. What are your earliest memories of skiing? Skiing in France on a family ski holiday when I was about 7. I was skiing through a tunnel and didn’t see the piste turn right so carried on straight in to the powder and got stuck up to my waist, Dad had to come and rescue me. Was there a trigger point in your life that made you decide this is the sport I want to dedicate myself to? I don’t believe that there was a trigger point but it has always given me a different sense whilst being able to see the views from the top of the mountain especially when you go above the clouds and only the tops of the mountains are poking through. Also the freedom whilst skiing of being able to choose my own line and feeling on the edge which no other sport has given me. Who is your main inspiration? I haven’t got a single inspiration but my family who always drive me to become the best I can as all of them have done it for me. Then in the sporting world it would be Shane Williams the ex Wales Rugby player who was told he was too small to play at international level and went on to be one of the best players in the World and prove people wrong. This is very much like myself being a ski cross racer from the UK competing against racers from the Alpine nations, I like proving people wrong.

What do you believe to be one of your weaknesses and what do you do to improve it? Being too tense throughout the whole race day and especially in the starting gate which means I can’t find the flow of the course. Recently I’ve been trying to distract my mind by either listening to some slower paced music or talking to my coach. The mental preparation is just as important as the physical side. Can you tell us about the absolute highlight in your sporting career so far? Last season becoming the World University Games Champion in the US. I didn’t realise at the time but it was GB’s fourth ever Gold medal in the games and first in a snow event. Being able to represent my nation at a multi sport event and get to meet all the other athletes and share the experience with them.

What is your aim for the future, what will success look like to you? Can you talk about your Olympic prospects? In the upcoming season it would be to compete in my first world cup race and also win the World Junior Championships at the end of the season. In the longer term, the Olympics in 2026 would be amazing but I am aiming more for the 2030 Games. Where is your favourite place to Ski? It’s between Bormio in Italy or Alpbach in Austria. Bormio has the longer more challenging slopes with beautiful weather and holds a lot of memories for me from racing the English Alpine Championships there until I focused on Ski cross. On the other hand the village of Alpbach is my favourite resort to stay in as it’s a traditional quiet Alpine village with some of the best food. Do you enjoy other sports? I’ve played and enjoyed several other sports but rugby was always my favourite to play and watch as any type of person can play and you still can’t tell who is going to win. Recently I’ve been getting into golf and football to play with friends when I can but I am currently dreadful. What is the worst element of your training regime? The interval sessions during the off season where it’s a couple of minutes on with a minute off. As there gets to a point where I know a can keep the speed up because I’ve done it 6/7 times but then it gets to a point where I have to push through a wall which on some days is a lot harder to do. What is your favourite way to relax? Playing on Xbox with friends and watching the F1 on the weekends it’s on. If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be? Being able to be present with people by talking and doing things with them and not constantly having to be looking and reading things on your phone every time something isn’t happening.

TOUC HWOODSOLIHULL.CO.UK

He's heRE BOOK TICKETS NOW

Santa is back in residence this year at his enchanted Christmas grotto. He’s eagerly waiting to receive wish lists and will even have an early gift for your little ones. Be sure to book online so the elves can reserve your space.

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Magical Moments at Touchwood.