April 2015 (issue 31)

Birmingham g n i liv

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April 2015

COOKING UP A STORM WITH BRAD CARTER

IKON 50 WORK OF ART AT

HERE COME THE GIRLS BAGS OF STYLE FOR SUMMER

INDICA CAMPBELL RISING STAR

WILL GREENWOOD England rugby legend brings the World Cup to Brum

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ROSE GALLAGHER, P J ELLIS, MAHIRS EXPERIENCE... AND MORE

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EDITOR’S VIEW Ikon is a fraction of the size of the Musée d’Orsay or Tate Modern, but its influence on art is considerable

’m a sucker for art. I’m no expert, but I’ve always loved sketching, painting… whatever!

Some of my personal highlights have been visiting places such as the magnificent Musée d’Orsay in Paris, home to the world’s largest collection of impressionist art, plus seeing Monet’s wonderful house and gardens at Giverny. Not to mention adoring Tate Modern in London.

What’s all this got to do with Birmingham? Quite a bit, as we’ve been named among the biggest supporters of the arts in the country. A report commissioned by 22 leading bodies shows 98 per cent of Brummies believe the arts are vitally important to the region.

That may surprise you, but it shouldn’t because we have some of the best, most unique arts organisations in the UK. Several figure in Marketing Birmingham’s 15-in-15, a list of 15 major events happening in the city in 2015.

One, the Ikon Gallery in Brindleyplace, features in this issue. Ikon is celebrating its 50th birthday this month, and though a fraction of the size of the Musée or Tate, its influence on contemporary art is considerable, both as a hub for showing art and for finding and encouraging talent.

During its 50 years it has been a launch pad for some of the UK’s best-loved contemporary artists. (It’s also had to endure being bombed by the IRA.) Next time you’re around Brindleyplace, drop in. It’s a treat not to be missed – and on that I am an expert having visited it myself and loved it to bits.

I

David Johns

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Editor: David Johns david@brumliving.co.uk

Features editor: Shelley Carter shelley@brumliving.co.uk Designer: Tracy Duffy

Contributors: Rob Price, Sue Cooke, Lisa Melvin, Rose Gallagher, Nick Davies

Account manager: Jane Morris jane@brumliving.co.uk Photography: David Morphew, Andrew Llewellyn Publishing director: Jonathan Carter

Rock Hopper Media Limited Burleigh House, 23 Tagwell Road, Droitwich WR9 7BN tel 01905 771110 © Rock Hopper Media Ltd. Birmingham Living is published monthly by Rock Hopper Media Ltd and printed by Buxton Press. Views and opinions expressed by authors and services and products offered by advertisers are not specifically endorsed by Rock Hopper Media Ltd. Reproduction in whole or in part of the contents of Birmingham Living without written permission is strictly prohibited.

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Cover image: Will Greenwood

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april 2015

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When you have finished with this magazine please recycle it

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g n i liv

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INSIDE

Highlights

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Will Greenwood England rugby legend welcomes the World Cup to Birmingham Birmingham’s Greatest Happy birthday Ikon! Celebrating 50 years of contemporary art Brad Carter The owner and chef of Carters of Moseley on what makes great food Food and Drink Pure Bar & Kitchen, Edward’s Restaurant, plus this month’s wine picks Style – Handbags & Shoes Trends, styles, colours… every girl’s guide to this season’s must-have accessories Homes Beautiful kitchens – ideas and top tips to turn your dream into a reality

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CONTENTS

60

Best of the Rest

36 58 60 65 68 70 78 april 2015

Health and Beauty Breaking the great male taboo, plus Rose Gallagher’s beauty tips Motoring Here comes summer as Sue Cooke tests the new BMW 2-Series Convertible Young, Gifted and Brummie Singer-songwriter Indica Campbell, plus news from local schools and colleges Spotlight on Business The latest news and views from Birmingham’s thriving business scene Company to Watch Mahirs Experience – the small deli that became a top catering and events business People, Places, Events Our social pages picture who’s been out and about networking in Birmingham this month Shows, Arts, Gigs and More What’s on, where and when – all you need to know about the arts and entertainment scene

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NEWS

WE LOVE OUR ARTS – OFFICIAL!

g n i v liTODAY

A huge 98 per cent of Midlanders say the arts, culture and heritage of the region are important to them. The 24 Hour Culture Survey questioned 2,300 people and found that in the past year 94 per cent had read a book, 85 per cent seen a play and 82 per cent visited a museum. The survey was commissioned by 22 leading arts organisations including the Royal Shakespeare Company, Birmingham Hippodrome and Birmingham Royal Ballet.

Bringing you the brightest and most colourful stories from across the city each month

LUKE’S UP FOR THE CUP Walsall Football Club teamed up with leading Midlands fashion designer Luke Roper to supply the team’s suits for their first ever trip to Wembley. The Saddlers played Bristol City in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy. Luke 1977 men's clothing was co-founded by Luke who grew up in Walsall Wood and went to Walsall College to study fashion and textiles.

LIFE THROUGH THE LENS

OF JQ’S TOP STUDIO

KATE HAILS CENTRE A Midlands children’s centre was praised for its work during a visit by the Duchess of Cambridge. Kate toured Action for Children in Cape Hill, one of seven operated in the area by the charity which supports vulnerable families.

april 2015

This stunning image is just one example of the work that is winning awards for Jewellery Quarter photographers Barbara Gibson and Marta Kochanek. The Gibson Kochanek Studio has welcomed a range of high-profile clients since opening over a year ago, including most recently Birmingham Royal Ballet and principal dancers César Morales and Momoko Hirata. The studio held a reception at Chung Ying Central to thank their clients.

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NEWS

STARS IN THEIR EYES An eye-catching array of starfish are sure to draw the crowds to the National Sea Life Centre in Birmingham following the launch of its new Sea

TREE SCHOOLS GET PLANTING

Stars attraction. Visitors can get up close to a variety

of species including the Brittle Star, Chocolate The West Midlands falls below the national average when it comes to tree Knobbed, Common Starfish, Red Knobbed and cover – so local youngsters are taking action by Sun-Star – which can have up to 12 arms! getting their hands dirty and planting thousands of saplings. More than 3,500 tree packs have been delivered A team is on the verge of topping Arsenal's to 36 schools and community famous unbeaten 'Invincibles' side – if at a groups as part of the Woodland somewhat lower level. St Mary’s FC are going for Trust’s Free Trees scheme. the league and cup double in the West Midlands Christian Football League having not lost a game this season. The cup final is on 20 April at Stourbridge FC , Amblecote, 7.45 ko.

MEET OUR OWN ‘INVINCIBLES’

3

GREAT APRIL

FOOL SPOOFS

MORE STUDENTS CHOOSE BRUM

Students love Brum. There are more than 65,000 higher education students in the city – and the University of Birmingham was recently voted University of the Year by The Times and Sunday Times. And according to leading luxury student accommodation provider, Collegiate, that success is putting student accommodation in real demand. The company says it is expanding its portfolio to meet the increase.

1962: Swedish TV told viewers how to convert old

INVASION OF THE DRONES AT NEC

black and white sets to colour by covering the screen

The Drone Show – the first public exhibition in the UK dedicated to the safe use unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology – is to be held at the NEC. The expo on 5 December will utilise the NEC’s indoor and outdoor space to showcase the use of drones and give visitors the latest showcase of micro drone technology.

in a nylon stocking! Thousands of people gave it a try.

1998: Burger King launched a ‘Left-handed Whopper’ to help the 11 million left-handed customers who visited its fast food outlets in the UK each year.

2005: The Sun printed the world’s first flavoured page, featuring a white square with the words ‘Lick Here’ It also carried the warning: ‘May contain nuts.’

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april 2015

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NEWS

WHY JOEL IS A TRUE INSPIRATION Joel Fields is feeling on top of the world. After a violent childhood, time in care and trouble with the law, he’s turned his life around and been recognised with a royal accolade.

Brummie Joel, 18, is one of only four people to receive a Prince’s Trust and Samsung Celebrate Success Award, recognising those who have succeeded against the odds. Joel works at M&S Solihull where he recently won a customer service award.

TRIO FULL OF EASTERN PROMISE IN BRIEF Three Birmingham cooks were among 15 finalists to find Britain’s best Oriental young chefs. One of them, Gemma Field from Selly Oak, was crowned Wing Yip Oriental Cookery Young Chef of the Year at the final at University College Birmingham.

Gemma, a chef for NEC Group’s Amadeus, impressed the judges, including local Michelinstar chef Glynn Purnell, with her dishes – a lobster combination and chicken crown poached in jasmine tea.

See Social Scene for more pictures YUMMY BRUMMIES: Gemma, right, with Anneka Gill and Michael Topping

CULIAN’S ROLE Internationally famous cellist Julian Lloyd Webber will become the new Principal of Birmingham Conservatoire this month. He said: “I am honoured and thrilled to be coming to the Conservatoire.”

SARAH’S PRIZE Edward’s Trust volunteer and fund-raiser Sarah Bradshaw has been named one of Britain’s Top 20 Best

CASH INJECTION FOR CLASSICS

Volunteers by the Small

The British Motor Industry Heritage Trust, based at the Heritage Motor Centre at Gaydon, has been given an £811,000 boost by the Arts Council. The money will be used for staff, development and retail projects as well as funding two major events – the Festival of the British Car and British Motoring Treasures planned for 2016 and 2017.

received support from the

april 2015

Charities Coalition. Sarah Trust after her son Dane died aged five.

ON THE RUN Three local businessmen raised over £15,000 by running the Tokyo Marathon. Hollywood Monster’s Tim Andrews and Phil McKenzie, along with Alan Sarjant from Prologis completed the 26 miles in aid of the Alzheimer’s Society, Edward’s Trust and LoveBrum.

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NEWS

TOP TWEETS FOR BRUM Our pick of what’s been said about Brum this month @amandalowe_bham Busy launch for @HarborneFS with @rivercottage Hugh & @edgproperty. Brilliant new facility for Harborne #Brum @adilray Love the #StPatricksDay parade in Brum. I think we should have an all in one Brum parade. All the faiths, pride, St pats. #lovebrum @richardpope Ultimate wankery. Facetiming your PA whilst "I'm just lounging in the sun at the side of the piste"...prick. @TomEPCarroll Just overheard in a restaurant, "are lardons made out of lard?" #brokenbritain

VOLUNTEERS TAKE LOVEBRUM TITLE Volunteers who clean up and recycle litter have been named as one of the first LoveBrum champions. The Clean Medina campaign run

by Sampson Road Residents Association aims Calling all green-fingered enthusiasts! Thrive, the to improve their local community of Sparkbrook. charity providing social and therapeutic horticulture Now with funding from LoveBrum, the to those in need in the local community, is looking association will extend Clean Medina for volunteers to help maintain the TV Gardens in Small across Birmingham.

Heath on a day-to-day basis. More details from Amanda on 07585 954031 or email: amanda.fields@thrive.org.uk

WANTED:

BUDDING HELPERS

NEW BID TO HELP HUSBANDS IMPRESS A Birmingham hotel has launched a Groom Academy to help transform the most undomesticated men into perfect husbands-to-be. The Crowne Plaza Birmingham NEC is offering tutorials to help the guys hone their skills to keep their other halves happy throughout married life. They include a guide on how to make a range of delicacies to impress on those special occasions, plus the perfect healthy brunch.

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MUSIC FESTIVAL SETS NEW FRONTIERS Lovers of contemporary classical and jazz music were in for a treat at Birmingham Conservatoire’s two-week Frontiers Festival.

Visitors enjoyed a programme of performances and exhibitions at venues across Birmingham, with internationally-respected artists performing alongside exciting new talent from the Conservatoire.

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NEWS

DUBAI? NO THANKS, WE’D RATHER LIVE HERE! Birmingham has the highest quality of life of any UK city outside of London, according to a new report. The global Mercer Quality of Living Report also placed Birmingham jointly with Rome at 52nd out of 230 rankings. The city rated ahead of hotspots such as Hong Kong, Miami and Dubai. Office of National Statistics figures also show Brum as the top choice for young professionals leaving the capital.

GLEE-HEE AT THE DOUBLE Birmingham’s Glee Club did the double at the prestigious Chortle Comedy Awards, claiming Best Venue and Best Club Night for its new Thursday night show, Comedy Carousel.

Voted for by fans and industry insiders, the awards are the UK’s premier recognition of live comedy.

ARE YOU READY FOR THE WALK OF TERROR? Prepare to be very scared! Birmingham’s seventh annual Zombie Walk will take place on Saturday 13 June. More than 2,000 ‘walking dead’ are expected to take to the streets to raise money for Birmingham Children’s Hospital. Last year’s event raised nearly £12,000. Make-up artists will also be on-hand with litres of fake blood to ensure participants are looking as ghoulish as possible. More details at www.birminghamzombies.com

TV CHEF CYRUS

SPICES IT UP

GET SET TO DANCE, BIRMINGHAM…!

Plans have been announced to get the city dancing again. Birmingham’s awardwinning International Dance Festival will return in May 2016 and feature a wide variety of performances and exciting opportunities for the public to take part. The unveiling was made by festival co-producers DanceXchange and Birmingham Hippodrome at a VIP launch event.

See Social Scene for pictures from the evening

Celebrity chef Cyrus Todiwala created a selection of his signature dishes and passed on top tips when he hosted a special event at premier kitchen brand Poggenpohl’s Birmingham showroom at the Fort Dunlop building. As well as cooking, teaching and running four successful restaurants Cyrus starred in the BBC TV series The Incredible Spice Men.

GOT ANY NEWS? Email your news and pictures to editor@brumliving.co.uk april 2015

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COVER STORY

WILL’S UP FOR THE CUP England rugby legend Will Greenwood tells David Johns why he’s thrilled that this year’s World Cup is coming to Birmingham or a few seconds there was silence and I thought: “Yes… I’ve got you Will Greenwood!” I’d heard that Will possessed an encyclopedic knowledge of all things rugby but I reckoned I had the prefect question to leave him reeling.

I’d thrown him a slippery little number that even an England rugby legend would surely struggle to handle. When was the last time 15-a-side had been played at Villa Park? Surely rugby union had NEVER been played at Villa Park, had it?

Will and I had been talking about the thrill of this year’s Rugby World Cup coming to the Midlands. Two great international clashes on the pitch famous for its glorious highs and lows in the game with the round ball.

With hardly a pause for thought, Will said: “1953. That’s when the touring New Zealand All Blacks beat a Midlands side 18-3 at Villa.” Impressive knowledge… but just in case he was stringing me along, I checked up the date for myself after we had finished our interview – and sure enough Will was right on the money.

F

STRONG LOBBYING

Fifty-two years on, the countdown is underway for the return of international rugby to the region as England hosts the sport’s most coveted competition. After strong lobbying by Birmingham Council, Villa Park is one of eight football stadia across the country selected to stage rugby matches when the World Cup comes to these shores this summer.

The region’s rugby fans have already had a taste of top class club rugby this year with Wasps moving to their new home ground at the Ricoh Arena. When the World Cup arrives at Villa Park later this summer, it will have a distinctly southern hemisphere feel too, as the powerhouse elite nations of South

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Africa and Australia will play there on consecutive days. Two matches that rank alongside when the stadium hosted games in the 1966 football World Cup and more latterly the 1996 European Championships.

Will is more than doing his bit to whip up the excitement a few months ahead of the big kick-off.

“I’m a real lover of rugby in and around the Midlands having played here myself and seen how passionate the people are about the sport. They are big supporters of rugby and I know they will

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COVER STORY

“

The people of the Midlands love their rugby – Villa Park will be a jamboree of passion and fun

april 2015

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COVER STORY

>>GREENWOOD STATS I I I I I I I

Made England debut against Australia in 1997/98 season Won 55 international caps during his career Won the Six Nations with England in 2000 and 2001 Won the World Cup with England in 2003 Three-time tourist with the British Lions Second highest international try scoring centre of all time Away from rugby, has three children, loves playing golf and is a life-long Manchester City fan

“

”

Winning the World Cup was an

amazing moment. If England can do it again this summer, it will be magical

Even so, he admits he’ll feel a twinge of emotion when the teams run out in this year’s World Cup. Like all ex-pro sportsmen, he misses the taking part – although he doesn’t miss the pounding his body used to take. The physical beatings were so bad that he says his mum ended up unable to watch him play. “When welcome the World Cup with open arms and give I played in the World Cup she couldn’t watch it – she Villa Park a very special atmosphere. There’s no one just walked around the stadium out of sight of the like Brummies for enjoying their sport.” pitch with Jonny Wilkinson’s dad. She couldn’t sit With both Villa Park matches already sold out it through it all.” seems like Will is right on that one, too. The World Cup He’s expecting a more relaxed, if highly brings back incredible memories for the former Leicester competitive, atmosphere at Villa Park this summer: Tiger who was a member of the England team which “The Birmingham crowds are going to see wonderful won the title so dramatically in Australia in 2003. teams playing wonderful rugby. I think it will be an “That was an amazing moment, and if England absolute jamboree and festival of rugby to savour.” I can do the same this year here on home soil it would >>VILLA PARK CLASHES be magical. They have every chance. I keep thinking of the fact that the final will be played at Twickenham and I can see England hopefully growing and getting stronger as the year progresses towards the tournament.”

Since retiring from playing in 2005, Will has become a leading TV and media pundit on the sport.

He’s been a regular on Sky’s rugby coverage and writes regularly for the Daily Telegraph. He’s also I South Africa v Samoa – Saturday 26 September fronted Sky’s School of Hard Knocks series, changing I Australia v Uruguay – Sunday 27 September the lives of rough, tough, but ultimately good kids.

Full World Cup details www.rugbyworldcup.com

april 2015

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BIRMINGHAM’S GREATEST

50!

LIFE BEGINS GREATEST AT

BIRMINGHAM’S

Ikon Gallery is one of the country’s leading homes of contemporary art – and this month it celebrates a very special landmark pril is a big month for Birmingham’s Ikon Gallery. It is celebrating 50 years of artistic excellence and has a fantastic programme of events, exhibitions and experiences collectively known as Ikon 50 to mark the occasion.

As the city’s only dedicated gallery of contemporary art, Ikon has a unique role and responsibility in the Birmingham cultural landscape and has been the catalyst in the development of many important artistic careers.

Ikon was established in the Swinging Sixties by a group of artists wanting a new and accessible place to share their artistic ideas and dreams. Its first home was in a glass-sided kiosk in the Bullring before enjoying a succession of venues around the city, including the Pallasades shopping centre where it was bombed by the IRA as part of an attack on an army recruitment centre next door. It moved to its current

A

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Brindleyplace base in 1998 after converting the former Victorian school into a striking contemporary gallery space.

REAL MAGNET The wonderfully intimate gallery, and the charming café linked to it, have become a real magnet to art lovers in the city and beyond, attracting more than 130,000 visitors a year. And as is the case with so many of the groups and organisations who we feature in Birmingham’s Greatest, Ikon has an even bigger reach and audience thanks to its dedicated work out in the community with young and would-be artists. Its youth interaction is perfectly captured by the Slow Boat project which sees members of the Ikon Youth Programme crew a 72-foot narrow boat converted into a floating studio and exhibition and theatrical space.

We are not dealing in exclusive luxury goods here. Art is for everyone to enjoy and be part of

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BIRMINGHAM’S GREATEST

The youngsters enjoy day and weekend trips, plus longer voyages away from Birmingham along the many canals that link the city to the rest of the country.

“The project has proved a big success,” said Ikon’s director Jonathan Watkins. “You don’t have to be a member of the youth programme to be part of it – just come along and have fun. It’s very much in the all-inclusive spirit of Ikon.”

The gallery’s 50th anniversary is about celebrating with the community as a whole. “Ikon has grown from humble beginnings to develop a worldwide reputation,” said Jonathan. “In recent years exhibiting artists have come from China, Japan, Australia, France, the US, Russia, Canada and of course the UK.” Among the leading homegrown Birmingham talents are John Salt, John Myers, Ruth Claxton, Stuart Whipps and Hurvin Anderson.

“Originally when Ikon started it was thought it would be a touring collection and have no home of its own,” said Jonathan. “That changed with the first small venue in the Bullring. Artistic ability and accessibility was key to Ikon then, and 50 years later it remains the same. We are a flagship for contemporary

april 2015

art both locally and in the wider country as a whole.

Indeed globally, too.”

At the local level, Ikon expends a lot of effort to involve those who do not come from a professional art background or indeed have any real knowledge of art. “We regularly visit schools and they come to us also,” said Jonathan. “It is important to encourage children not to be alienated or intimidated by a traditional art gallery environment. We are not dealing in exclusive luxury goods here. Art is for everyone to enjoy and be part of.”

One of the highlights of the gallery’s birthday celebrations is Artists for Ikon, an exhibition at the gallery from 24 April to 5 May followed by a major

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BIRMINGHAM’S GREATEST

ART FOR ALL: Ikon’s home in Brindleyplace and its director Jonathan Watkins

contemporary art auction at Sotheby’s in London on 7 July. The exhibition previews works donated for the auction by some of today’s most important artists, all of whom have exhibited at some time at the gallery.

Money raised by the auction will form the foundation of Ikon’s 50th Anniversary Endowment Fund dedicated to the gallery’s artistic programme and the commissioning of new art work.

For more details about Ikon Gallery and its anniversary programme of events, go to www.ikon-gallery.org

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In common with many of the city’s other centres of culture, Ikon is a registered charity, and the anniversary will give it the opportunity to undertake its largest-ever fundraising campaign. “The aim is a simple one – to ensure that Ikon continues to grow, making the very best in contemporary art available to all,” said Jonathan.

“Funding for everyone in the arts is harder now than it has ever been due to the cuts in public funding. It means a redoubling of the effort to get funding from elsewhere and for making the case that art in Birmingham is a good investment. Without art this city wouldn’t be as cosmopolitan. Investment in culture reaps such huge rewards – it makes the city alive and attractive.”

Fifty years on, Ikon is playing a more important role in Birmingham life than ever – so join us in wishing this remarkable hub of contemporary art a truly great year. I

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il ving

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FOOD & DRINK

BRAD CARTER The chef and proprieter of Carters of Moseley on how cooking tea for mom began his love affair with food – and why Dim Sum Mondays are special!

Tell us about your cooking My style is modern British and I focus on mainly British ingredients. Wild foraged and organic ingredients help produce simple dishes with maximum flavour. When creating dishes I start with a main seasonal ingredient then work backwards to complete the plate. I use a blend of modern and classic techniques in the kitchen.

Describe your perfect meal I worked and lived in Spain so I have a soft spot for Spanish tapas and Charcutiere. Raja Monkey in Hall Green is my only Indian takeaway. A favourite of mine though is Dim Sum Mondays on my night off with my fiancée Holly!

How did you become a chef?

I always loved food and at school I won the pizza making competition and used to cook my mom’s tea when she came home from work – usually something on toast! In my last year at high school I worked in a local pub as a KP [Kitchen Porter]. I loved the environment and I moved into the cooking side of it. I enrolled at University College Birmingham and have never looked back.

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CHEF’S CORNER

What do you eat when at home?

I’m really into my nutrition and drink vegetable shakes, eat salads and make sure I get lots of protein. I do like one-pot cooking though – I love how you layer the flavours.

Who’s the best chef in the world and why? And who’s the best in Brum?

A lot of the best chefs cook in the UK, so that’s great for us. One of my inspirations is Fergus Henderson of St John in London. His books are great and I love the feeling of the celebration of Britain that you get when dining there. In Brum, we have a set of chefs at the top of their game and I’m proud to be a part of the food scene here.

Is the customer always right?

Yeah, the customer is always right, some of the time!!!

What's the best thing about being a chef?

I love the creation and the craft, from the box of ingredients to the plate and then speaking to guests who understand your thoughts in the food. I also love to mentor young chefs and see their skills develop in my kitchen. Great restaurants operate as a team and I’m lucky to have some great people at Carters.

What's the worst thing about being a chef?

There’s nothing bad about it. It’s a lifestyle choice. If I ain’t cooking I’m thinking about it!

If you weren’t a chef, what would you be?

Involved in bakery as I love the art of bread baking. Also I love underground music, so a career in that scene would have been cool.

What do you recommend from this evening’s menu?

Our menu is a no-choice, ever-changing tasting menu giving you the best of the season that week. One of this week’s highlights is Cornish sea bass, sea beet and fermented garlic. I

april 2015

BRAD’S RECIPE FOR HERITAGE BEETROOTS, WALNUTS AND HORSERADISH Serves 4 as a starter Ingredients:

I 2 each young heritage beetroots, red, golden, candy, white, with tops cut on sea salt grapeseed oil I 4 walnuts, roasted, peeled I 15g fresh horseradish

Dressing:

I 1 red beetroot, washed, diced I 150ml balsamic vinegar I 150ml water I Rapeseed oil

Pickled Walnut Puree:

I 250g pickled walnuts I 250ml water I 1 teaspoon salt

Method First make the dressing. Add all the ingredients to a blender and puree for around 2 minutes. It may need a slash more vinegar or water to help it blend. Pass the mixture through a fine sieve pushing the juice through until the pulp is dry. Set aside.

For the puree, add the pickled walnuts and salt to the blender, bring the water to the boil then pour over the walnuts. Blend on full for 5 minutes until smooth, pass through a fine sieve. Set aside.

For the beetroots, set oven to 180c. Cut off the leaves and stems, set aside. Scrub all the beets of excess dirt and wash the leaves and stems. Put the beetroots on a tray, coat in the oil and season with the sea salt. Cover the tray with foil and roast for around 20 minutes, or until you can insert a skewer easily. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.

To assemble, when cool, half the beetroot lengthways, set aside. Cut the stems into uniform 2-inch lengths and place in the bowl with the leaves. Dress with the beetroot dressing and the oil, season with sea salt, put some puree on the plate and arrange the beetroots around it.

Place the dressed leaves and stems on top of the beets then, using a fine grater, grate over the walnut pieces and the fresh horseradish.

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RESTAURANT REVIEW

PURE BAR & KITCHEN 30 Waterloo St, Birmingham B2 5TJ. Tel: 0121 237 5666 www.purebarandkitchen.com s the Pure Bar and Kitchen turned one last month we thought it’d be rude not to celebrate. Any excuse you might say, but on the contrary it was such hard work. The extensive selection of beers was a real chore as was the inventive menu. Decisions, decisions.

In fact, we found choosing one beer so difficult we went for four wee ones instead in the form of an inspired beer flight. There were a few flights to choose from, ours was a Trip to Europe that included a third-of-a-pint each of Belgian Houblon Chouffe, German Sunner Kolsch, Maisels Weiss and the Czech Bernard Dark Lager. The stand-out was the Sunner Kolsch, but we had no complaints. They all slipped down a treat.

A special menu to celebrate a combination of the bar’s first birthday and St Patrick’s Day was on offer. It seemed an odd link but I went with it. The small plate from the specials sounded right up my street. Deep fried oysters, oyster mayo, smoked salmon, shallots and capers served with homemade soda bread was entirely fresh and delicious and made me feel all spring-like.

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SATISFYINGLY OOZING The friend went back on piste with the standard menu and scoffed a scotch egg with beer ketchup enthusiastically. A scotch egg isn’t high on my list of things to eat, but I tried this and I’m a total convert. It was satisfyingly oozing and packed with meaty flavour. The ketchup was unusual, but it worked a treat.

The Dunkel beer BBQ chicken served with crunchy coleslaw and frites resembled old-school chicken in a basket, but tasted far

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from naff pub grub. The chicken was juicy and tender served two ways – one glazed in the beer and another coated in spices and deep fried. It was seriously good and the frites were perfect. I liked the retro presentation – literally a plastic basket, but my friend thought it was ill-conceived. I argued he probably wasn’t cool enough to get it. We’re still friends. Just. I blame the beer.

Moving on… The roast beetroot, red onion and Woolsery goats cheese salad was fresh, herby and zingy.

It was a bit light on the goat’s cheese, but tasted really lovely. I found the small plate version was the ideal size which at £6 was an absolute steal. We skipped dessert in favour of heading back to the office, but could’ve stayed all day and sampled many more beers.

As we left the place was pretty much packed. A gaggle of suits propped up the bar and groups of mates and loved ones gathered around tables.

Despite the interior being super cool and industrial, the vibe was relaxed and happy and not at all selfconscious. Happy days. I

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FOOD & DRINK

NIBBLES and

SHORTS

Birmingham has a lively and buzzing bar and restaurant scene. Here, we present our insider guide to what’s going on in your city’s eateries and drinking dens BUONISSIMO SCOOPS TOP 10 RATING Italian restaurant Buonissimo in Albany Road off Harborne High Street, is celebrating being one of the top 10 best-rated restaurants in Birmingham on Trip Advisor. The eatery serves a homely taste of Italy and the new spring menu includes dishes such as prawn and artichoke bruschetta and goat’s cheese parcels with red onion jam. Yum!

FIDDLE AND BONE OPENS WITH A TWIST! Great news! The Fiddle and Bone, Birmingham's historic canal-side music venue which was closed for 12 years, has reopened. As well as building on its jazz and blues heritage with live music, the Fiddle and Bone is also serving ‘English food with a twist' and real cask ales and fine wines. Breakfasts include the tasty-sounding Boater's Full English.

FULL OF BEANS OVER AT BOO BOO Independent coffee shop Boo Boo Coffee in Harborne was named the winner of Intuit QuickBooks’ Small Business Big Success competition held at The Hawthorns. Owned by Keon Heidarinia and Matt Eagles, it was selected due to the team’s passion for the coffee industry and desire to train up local teenagers and teach them barista skills.

GAS STREET SOCIAL SETS THE SCENE There’s an exciting addition to Birmingham’s social scene in the shape of the new Gas Street Social bar and restaurant at the Mailbox.

Specialising in sharing and socialising, the venue serves seasonal European food alongside a range of drinks, including international craft beers, fine wines and signature cocktails.

FOOD SCHOOL LAUNCHES IN STYLE TV chef Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall launched the new Harborne Food School, based in the Grade II listed School Yard building.

Founded by Shaleen Meelu and Robert Smith, the school includes a demonstration kitchen for public and private events, facilities for cooking classes and public sector training and a private dining room.

AFTERNOON TEA? IT’S THE ONLY PLACE TO BE! Hotel du Vin in Church Street has been named as one of the top 14 places in the UK to take afternoon tea. The hotel joins some other well-known names on the list compiled by the Independent newspaper, including the Grand Brighton; the Pump Room, Bath; Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh and Betty’s, Harrogate.

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LUNCH SPOT

EDWARD’S RESTAURANT Cookes, 28 Goosemoor Lane, Erdington, Birmingham B23 5PN. Tel: 0121 250 5050 www.edwardsbarandrestaurant.co.uk

n the last issue, a football pitch provided the backdrop for Sunday lunch and this month I found myself dining in an interiors store – a mighty fine store, but still I expected one of those unappealing garden centre cafes charging over the odds for ropey coffee and substandard nosh.

What I got was a properly kitted out restaurant with cosy banquettes, fabulous chandeliers, a fantastic private dining room and nice bar area. It was easy to shift the mindset from ‘I’m having lunch in a shop’ to ‘I’m out for lunch’. The impressive restaurant manager Michelle was keen to point out that the menu suits the clientele who are mainly 50-plus, so they serve a lot of traditional fare.

I

RICH AND UNCTUOUS And what’s wrong with that? Who doesn’t hanker after a rich steak and ale pie now and then?

There’s a big difference between traditional and old-fashioned and thankfully the menu was the former. I enjoyed creamy, comforting garlic mushrooms while JC’s fishcakes were crisp and full of flavour. The only minor gripe about the starters was that they were served on an odd-shaped plate sat on top of a round one so it all wobbled about a bit.

There was the usual lunchtime fodder of sandwiches and paninis, but we snubbed them and embraced the comfort food.

JC’s steak and kidney pie was rich and unctuous with delicate

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puff pastry and really good accompaniments. I polished off lemon cod bites which were crunchy and delicious served with peas, fluffy thick chips and tartar sauce.

The cakes looked amazing as did the afternoon tea which seemed very popular. We shared a caramel and toffee cake that Mary Berry would have been proud of and quaffed a perfect macchiato. It was pleasing to be so surprised by Edward’s. The service and the food were impressive and the décor stunning. It just felt really loved and nurtured.

The only snag was while lunch was reasonable at less than £40 for two, it was quite difficult – OK impossible to leave the restaurant without spending a few hundred pounds on a gorgeous armchair… I

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WINE

REVEALING THE WORLD’S

WINEST

Who drinks the most, what’s their favourite tipple and where does the UK rank?

Rob Price tells all – and names his best buys for April in a store near you o who drinks the most wine? I mean which country? Well there’s a lot of wine made! A report by the International Wine and Spirit Research group calculates that more than 38 billion bottles of wine are produced each year, with 54 per cent being red, 37 per cent white and nine per cent rosé.

S

INCREASING Worked out the country yet? Maybe France or Italy? Not bad guesses, but actually it’s nowhere in Europe. The US is No. 1, consuming 339 million cases a year. France and Italy are second and third with 296 million and 288 million cases respectively.

The UK is in sixth place with 133 million cases.

Of course the huge population in the US gives them a head start, so if we look at wine

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consumption per person per year then of the major countries Italy leads the way, followed by France. We’re actually not in the top 10, but analysts suggest the UK is going to increase its spending on wine over the next three years and by 2018 we will be in second place (to the US) forking out £17billion a year on wine. Wow! I met with a young chap earlier this month to discuss his idea on creating a new vineyard in England and I was concerned about the investment needed and the time it would take to reap potential rewards, but maybe just maybe it might work, if we’re going to spend that much.

Perhaps he should think about producing sparkling wine which suits our cool climate better. Given we downed 132 million bottles of Champagne in 2013, we should have the capacity

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WINE

ROB’S APRIL TOP PICKS Intense yet mellow Colpasso Nero d'Avola – Tesco, £6.50.

Made from the Nero d’Avola grape and bursting with black cherry flavours and a touch of spice. One for beef or lamb stews.

Demonstrates just how good inexpensive southern Italian wine can be.

Argentina’s finest Ben Marco Expresivo 2011 – The Wine Society, £20.

From the Dominio del Plata winery at the foot of the El Plata mountain, this aptly named oak-aged blend features 50 per cent Malbec and fires the tastebuds with its myriad flavours and opulent texture.

Doctor’s orders!

for the odd million bottles of English Fizz.

So what should you drink? Despite the clocks going forward I’m not quite ready to hit summer mode just yet, so I recommend a selection of lovely full bodied red. These wines are ideal for our still cool April nights.

POWERFUL Let’s start with a really good value wine, Colpasso Nero d'Avola. It won’t burn a hole in your pocket. More expensive, but one of my favourites, is a Malbec from Argentina called Ben Marco which Majestic stocks. I recently came across Ben Marco Expresivo – wow, wow, wow!

One of the richest and most powerful wines I have found is The Good Doctor’s Tonic, a big bold Australian offering which is always a favourite at my tastings. And we need to end with a Port. Not sure why, but evenings always end well with Port I think. I

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The Good Doctor’s Tonic – Laithwaites, £30.

A McLaren Vale GP by day, Dr Matt Cooper is a fully signed-up Red Heads winemaker by night. His Tonic is big, bold and dark – a unique and delicious blend of locally-sourced Shiraz, Cabernet and Tannat.

Perfect port Graham’s 10-year-old Tawny Port – Frazier wine merchants, £18.99.

I pretty much always have one open, just a small sample each day you understand! Fine, goldenorange-amber hue, with a nose of baked earth, fig and spiced fruits.

Youthful but very enjoyable.

Birmingham Wine School is an independent wine education company offering fun, informal wine tasting events and Wine & Spirit Education Trust courses in Birmingham, Stratford-Upon-Avon and Milton Keynes. Contact Rob Price on 0121 270 7359 or visit www.birminghamwineschool.com

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ing livSTYLE

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BAGS & SHOES

(enough said)

Two little words sure to set the pulse of even the most rational, intelligent woman racing. Stereotypical – yes! Accurate – probably!

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STYLE

FRINGE BENEFIT Taupe bag £40 by Matthew Williamson for Debenhams, Bullring

BRILLIANTLY BONKERS Sophia Webster Riri sandal £595, Harvey Nichols, The Mailbox

CITRUS BURST Yellow envelope clutch £28, Wallis

ZIG ZAG Tote £32, Dorothy Perkins, The Fort Shopping Park

WHITE OUT Jasmin £79, Dune

TOTES AMAZING Michael Kors pink stripe tote bag £310, House of Fraser

nd there’s a lot to get excited about this season! A particular highlight yet again is Sophia Webster who is fast becoming our go-to girl. She created the party shoe of the festive period with the gold Evangeline and now the brilliantly bonkers candy-coloured Riri sandal is top of our lust list.

Feature lacing, as flaunted on the Riri, is big and is more fashion than function. Check out Aquazzura’s pointed flats at Harvey Nichols for a stunning example. The high street is awash with lacing too with Office and Dune leading the pack.

Chunky heels, espadrilles, gladiator sandals (a perfect calf is pretty much essential) and the opinion-dividing slider are all gracing catwalks and shop floors in huge numbers. We’re still struggling with the slider and only mind-

A

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BATTLE GROUND Tan gladiator knee high sandal £34.99, New Look, The Fort Shopping Park

bending sun stroke inducing heat would trick us into one. Having said that they’re proving too popular to ignore, so voila!

The antithesis of the slider is the elegance of Jimmy Choo’s suede ankle boot. Utterly wearable and sophisticated, it’s a beauty that will wow time and again. Fringing transcends footwear and arm candy in a variety of shades and styles from a subtle swing to a gutsy thigh-slapping yee-haw. Where are you on the spectrum?

In the bag department all the colours of the rainbow are represented, quite literally at Valentino with its Rock Stud mini bag. From classic totes to cute clutches, bags have either been given a complete whitewash or a pop of colour that says ‘look at me, aren’t I lovely?’ or in the case of River Island’s Hold Me bag, er… hold me! I

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STYLE FLATS WITH ATTITUDE Valentino Rockstud ballet flats £580, Harvey Nichols, The Mailbox

PEEPO Peep toe heel £89, Monsoon

PRELOVED LUXURY Preloved Alexander McQueen, The Designer Exchange, Great Western Arcade

FLOWER POWER Floral clutch £14, Next, The Fort Shopping Park

SLIDE RIGHT BY Shoes £7.99, H&M, Pavilions

VINTAGE VIBE Nancy Sea Green £145, Agnes and Norman

SAY IT WITH ARM CANDY Hold Me Bag £55, River Island, Touchwood

BIT OF FLUFF Fluffy platforms, Topshop, Touchwood

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STYLE

DUFFLE DELIGHT Biba snake effect duffle £179, House of Fraser

PATCHWORK OF ART Jimmy Choo patchwork clutch £995, Harvey Nichols, The Mailbox

NO HEIGHT RESTRICTIONS Platform sandals £45, Next, The Fort Shopping Park

PICK ME UP Radley De Beauvoir £209, Bullring

FIERCE HEELS Chantilly gladiator heels £99, Dune

ARM CANDY Diana bag £75, Dune

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TRUE BLUE Blue wedge espadrilles £17.99, New Look, Bullring

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STYLE

LUCKY STRIKE Furla Perspex bowling bag £310, House of Fraser

NO SLOUCH Green bucket bag £89.50, Oliver Bonas

RAIN OR SHINE

PREPPY PLATFORM

Valentino Rockstud mini shoulder bag £1,240, Harvey Nichols, The Mailbox

Limited Edition shoe £35, M&S, Pavilions

STRIPE A POSE Christian Louboutin cut-out plexi pumps £575, Harvey Nichols, The Mailbox

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE

ELEGANT SIMPLICITY

Love Moschino quilted bag £222, House of Fraser

Nude ankle boot Jimmy Choo £595, Harvey Nichols, The Mailbox

LACE UP Red gladiator heels £70, Office, Touchwood

SUMMER'S HERE.. WELL ALMOST Neon stripe clutch £35, Oliver Bonas

How are you rocking your new season accessories?

Instagram your photos using @brum_living #stylefilebrum

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SUBTLE SLIDER Double strap slider £22, Wallis

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STYLE

GREEN PARTY Featured clothing available from Ted Baker

SPRING

ACCESSORIES

EDIT

Here’s our pick of the season’s bags and shoes for the very modern man – and woman in the case of the Herschel bag, part of the Agender campaign at Selfridges

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STYLE MAN WITH A TAN Felix bag £85, White Stuff

BACK TO SCHOOL The Fox satchel in red £115, Ted Baker

ALL GROWN UP Best of British bag £249, M&S IT'S A MIRAGE Collection boots £79, M&S

LEAD THE PACK Messenger bag by Luke Roper www.luke1977.com CLASSIC WEEKENDER Alexander McQueen printed holdall £1,195, Harvey Nichols GET THE BOOT Dylan Stone suede boot £129, Agnes and Norman

TAKE THE HIGH GROUND Giuseppe Zanotti metallic hi-top trainers £685, Harvey Nichols SPRING BLUES Michael Kors blue messenger bag £260, House of Fraser GENDER NEUTRAL Herschel Little America classic backpack £95, Selfridges

FLORAL NOTES Y3 Retro Boost neoprene trainer £240, Harvey Nichols

THERE AIN'T NOTHING LIKE A HOUNDSTOOTH Jimmy Choo houndstooth skate shoes £395, Harvey Nichols

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HEALTH

BREAKING THE GREAT

MALE TABOO Getting men to take care of themselves is a mission at the best of times, but deep down we all know it’s healthy to talk… hy are blokes so weird when it comes to talking about illness? I guess it’s a historic thing – being macho and all that. But there are encouraging signs that attitudes are changing and guys are becoming more open and aware of health issues.

Take the subject of prostate cancer for example. High profile campaigns – such as the Men United TV ads fronted by comedian Bill Bailey – appear to be getting the message through.

And March’s Prostate Awareness month, organised by Prostate Cancer UK, also helps to inform and educate.

W

COUNTER INTUITIVE One in eight men is diagnosed with prostate cancer. But there are many treatments aimed at controlling, or completely clearing, the disease. It may sound counter intuitive, but many men receive a diagnosis of prostate cancer for which the best management may be to just watch them closely and only treat if the disease begins to progress.

Bill, whose father-in-law survived prostate cancer, said: “Blokes are not always good at taking care of themselves and, even if they know they have a health problem, they often don't want to talk about it – or they just hope it will go away.

“I only campaign for the things I believe in and I feel very strongly about this. I read a news article about the number of men affected by prostate cancer and I was shocked by the figures.

I had no idea it was so common – but, if caught early enough, it can be successfully treated.”

Prostate cancer can be slow growing. In its very early stages it may have no symptoms at all, or only mild ones which occur over a long period. For some people, the first symptoms are only when

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HEALTH

cancer cells spread to the bones, which can cause pain in the back, hips, pelvis or other bony areas.

Like all cancers, the important thing is to be vigilant and if possible catch it as early as possible. An appropriate management strategy can then be determined and the good news is that, every year, thousands of men are declared clear of the disease.

Prostate cancer is treated in various ways depending on whether the disease is ‘localised’ (limited only to the prostate gland itself), or is ‘locally advanced’ (having spread just outside the prostate) or is advanced (having spread to other parts of the body).

“

”

The important thing is to be vigilant –

the good news is that every year thousands of men are declared clear of the disease

There are various treatment options that may be considered by your clinician and again these will depend on the state and stage of the disease. These include active surveillance where the disease is growing very slowly and may never even progress or have symptoms. In the same way ‘watchful waiting’ might be adopted where the cancer is not causing symptoms or concerns. The aim is to monitor closely over the long-term, but to hold off on any treatment unless the cancer progresses.

Bill added: “Prostate cancer is not something to shy away from or worry about. We should work together.

Men should talk to their GP – find out more about it.

Have a conversation about it. There should be no fear about it, no mystery. Let’s get people to talk about it – and see where that leads.” I The Priory Hospital, Birmingham offers a range of specialists and treatments for prostate cancer. More details at www.bmihealthcare.co.uk/priory

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BEAUTY

SPRING BEAUTY EDIT

The dawn of spring calls for a light, easy beauty regime. Here, beauty expert Rose Gallagher offers a handful of new season updates to refresh your make-up bag.

Nails Inc Alexa Hearts Nail

Elizabeth Arden Beautiful Color Precision

Polish, £16 from Selfridges

Glide Eye Liner, £17 from House of Fraser

Textured nail varnishes are the

Switch your classic liner for a jewel-toned

perfect way to experiment with

alternative like emerald green or a deep plump.

new season colours and trends.

These liners from Elizabeth Arden smudge

Try this red heart topcoat alone

beautifully to give your eyes soft definition.

or layer over your favourite manicure shade.

Oribe Impermeable AntiHumidity Spray, £18 from Space NK Don’t let an April shower ruin

Vita Liberata Self Tanning Bronzer, £35 from Boots

your blow dry. Set your hair

The world’s first self tanning bronzer,

with a blast of this Oribe

these new bronzing minerals are just

spray which – as it says on

the thing to give you an instant

the tin – is absolutely

sun-kissed radiance that lasts for days.

impermeable. Come rain or shine your hair will remain sleek and groomed.

Rose de Mai Face Oil, £150 from Space NK Massage a few drops of facial oil

Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Water, £20 from Boots Warmer weather can send your make-up headed south. Seal everything in with Smashbox’s new Primer Spray, a quick step to keep your face in place all day. Keep this by your desk for a refreshing boost if you work in an air-conditioned space.

into your skin before moisturiser and you’ll find that your skin glows by morning. Chantecaille’s new Rose de Mai Face Oil absorbs quickly and leaves skin looking and feeling plump.

For more beauty tips checkout Rose’s blog at www.mixedgems.co.uk

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ADVERTORIAL

© Patrice Le Bris

MAGNIFICENT NORMANDY

© Patrice Le Bris

Destination Deauville as airline launches flights to fashionable retreat with a stunning coastline that’s just an hour from Birmingham ne of France’s most fashionable destinations is being brought to Birmingham’s doorstep this summer. The chic Normandy town of Deauville has been the go-to retreat of well-heeled Parisians since the late 19th century. It’s the place where fashion legend Coco Chanel first started selling hats, where the fascination with horse racing is everything and where the beaches, clubs and designer shops are reminiscent of St Tropez.

Now it’s set to become a favourite haunt of holidaymakers from the Midlands as Flybe makes the region of Normandy more accessible than ever with flights from Birmingham to Deauville this summer. So, what can they expect to find?

Deauville is steeped in history. An agricultural village overlooking the sea until 1858, it was transformed from a backwater into an ‘elegant kingdom’ to attract the Paris aristocracy by the Duke de Morny. In four years, Deauville changed into a

O

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coastal resort, complete with magnificent neoNorman villas, a racecourse and a rail link to the capital. A casino and a handful of luxury hotels followed and by the 1920s, the town was elegant and sought-after.

COCO CHANEL This was where the designer Coco Chanel launched her stellar career, selling avant-garde hats to the ladies who strolled along the seaside promenade, and where royalty went when they wanted to relax and soak up the sun on the Normandy Riviera.

Today, Deauville is one of France’s premier visitor resorts. Its greatest attraction is its coastline – a 1,400 metre-long sandy beach edged by a 1920s boardwalk and sprinkled with colourful sun umbrellas. Swimming in the Channel may be restricted to the summer season, but there’s plenty to do along the coast year-round. There’s a 27-

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ADVERTORIAL

www.normandy-tourism.org

© Patrice Le Bris

degree Olympic-sized swimming pool, thalassotherapy spa centre, sand-yachting, windsurfing and sea-kayaking.

DEAUVILLE TAKE 5

FESTIVALS GALORE The jetset congregate at Deauville, partly thanks to the town’s reputation as a yachting mecca, highlighted by Deauville International Week, a top-level international sporting tournament that takes place on the Seine Bay. The town is also well known for its equestrian connections. There are two racetracks – La Touques and Clairefontaine – both of which have a full calendar of events during the racing season. France’s top polo event, the Lucien Barrière Deauville Polo Cup, is held in the town as well as the international event RIDE, which features jumping, eventing and driving competitions.

The International Traditional-Carriage Competition attracts more than 30 teams from all over the world, while the yearling auctions

Coco Chanel launched her career here

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1 2 The coastline has more than 1,400 metres of sandy beach

3 is home to two of the region’s top racetracks

4 It has a 27 degrees Olympic-sized swimming pool

5 The annual American film festival is held here

are a chance to see some of the world’s most prized horses change hands.

For culture junkies, the American Film Festival is a serious rival to the celebrity-studded Cannes Festival.

There’s also the street performance festival Noël au Balcon at Christmas, the World Bridge Festival, the Books & Music Fair and two classical music festivals.

Rue des Villas and Place Morny are the top spots for serious boutique shopping with big-name brands such as Ralph Lauren, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada and Hermès, as well as a smattering of stylish cafés. A market held on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday, is packed with the finest local produce. Nightlife is well catered for

by Deauville’s bars, music venues and clubs, such as the celebrity-favourite Zoo Bar and Le Seven and the high-rolling Louis XVI-style Casino.

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ADVERTORIAL

© www.calvados-tourisme.com

A longer stay in Deauville opens up the chance to venture further afield to the likes of Bayeux and its famous tapestry and Rouen where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake. As well as the magnificent cathedral there are two new attractions which have recently opened in Rouen – the Panorama XXL which takes you back to ancient Rome, and The Historial centre dedicated to Joan of Arc. Deauville is also the ideal base for the D-Day Tour of the 400 British and Commonwealth cemeteries, churches and memorials that are scattered across the northern French countryside.

>>GETTING THERE Flybe has flights to Deauville from Birmingham (from 23 June), Bournemouth (from 18 May) and Exeter (from 25 June).

Flight time is just one hour and fares starting from £24.99 one-way*, including taxes and charges.

* Terms & conditions apply.

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© Paravision

A stone’s throw from Deauville across the river, Touques is the traditional fishing town of Trouville-sur-Mer. The town’s wide sandy beaches, winding streets and Belle Epoque architecture have inspired French writers and artists from Flaubert to Boudin.

The beach at Trouville was the first in Normandy to have a boardwalk in 1867 and the town has been attracting bathers since the 19th century. Today Trouville is a favourite family seaside resort offering a range of water sports, guided boat trips and an activities club for children.

IMPRESSIONISTS East along the coast and under 30 minutes from Deauville, is the picturesque town of Honfleur. A favourite subject of the Impressionist artists, the charming fishing port looks much as it did when Monet was a regular visitor. Further along the coast or the River Seine , art lovers can soak up the mood of the Impressionists at the fine art museum in Le Havre, Etretat with its stunning cliffs and

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ADVERTORIAL

Giverny home to Monet’s world famous garden. A few miles inland from Deauville is Normandy’s picture-perfect countryside of the Pays d’Auge where three of Normandy’s A.O.C cheeses originate – Camembert, Pont-l’Evêque and Livarot. It’s also the home of the region’s calvados distilleries and the 2015 Tour de France will pass this way in July.

© Patrice Le Bris

april 2015

CIDER ROUTE The 24-mile Cider Route signposts 20 distilleries that will open their cellars, share their production secrets and offer visitors a tipple of their cider, calvados or pommeau. History buffs can trace William the Conqueror’s footsteps starting at his birthplace in Falaise castle a short drive from Deauville then on to Caen with castle and abbeys and finally, Bayeux, home to the famous tapestry.

Normandy’s historical capital of Rouen and the D-Day beaches are just an hour’s drive from Deauville airport and the unforgettable Mont-Saint-Michel remains a magical place to visit a little further afield.

With a great range of accommodation options from affordable self-catering, to friendly B&Bs and luxurious 5* hotels, Normandy has something to suit everyone’s taste. I

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HEARTHOME OF THE

Designing and planning a new kitchen is an exciting, but daunting prospect.

Here’s our pick of the latest styles and products to guide you through

DREAM KITCHEN The ultimate open plan kitchen by top designer, Lisa Melvin www.lisamelvindesign.co.uk

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HOMES

HAND CRAFTED Traditional kitchen designed by Debbie Bowden for Ashburtons www.barnesofashburton.co.uk

hese days we do so much more than cook in our kitchen and adapting the space to suit modern heart of the home living can be a challenge. Whether that means a complete remodelling of the space to suit your ideal or a bit of TLC to get the finish you’ve been dreaming of, here’s a bit of new season inspiration to whet your appetite. I

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SOMETHING OLD SOMETHING NEW Old and new come together with striking results by Richard Sharp at Princess Design www.princessdesign.co.uk

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BIT OF TLC Complete refits or treatment for existing doors by The Kitchen Restoration Company www.kitchenrestoration.co.uk

HIGH SHINE A high gloss, fuss free scheme from Leekes www.leekes.co.uk

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BESPOKE BEAUTY +Modo kitchen from Poggenpohl shown here in white lacquer and oak.

Prices from £30k. www.birmingham.poggenpohl.com

COCKTAIL O’CLOCK Inspired drinks cabinet by Lisa Melvin www.lisamelvindesign.co.uk

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PURPLE PATCH Ely kitchen with feature lighting and a splash of colour by Classic Kitchens www.classickitchensltd.co.uk

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HOMES TRADITIONAL CHARM Colour trim jug vases, large £40, medium £30, small £25, House of Fraser

BOWLED OVER Bamboo bowl £14, Oliver Bonas

FINISHING TOUCHES Ideas to make your kitchen extra special

TEA FOR TWO Geometric teapot, Home Sense

COPPER TOP Collection 16cm copper triply pan £40, Sainsbury’s

PERFECT PENDANTS Black pendant £266, white and gold pendant £59, Cookes Furniture Store

TOP DRAWER Starburst 24-piece cutlery set £140, House of Fraser LAST STAND Recipe stand £22, Oliver Bonas

GET HAMMERED Hammered metal bread bin £28, Next

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DISHY…DISH Collection 4.7-litre mushroom cast iron oval casserole dish £55, Sainsbury’s

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Hot Properties This month’s pick of the most desirable homes for sale includes a luxury city penthouse, rambling Edwardian pile and idyllic farmhouse

WOW FACTOR Liberty Place, Sheepcote St Guide price: £695k Agent: Maguire Jackson, tel: 0121 634 1520

Luxury penthouse living at its best, this is bright, airy and contemporary with all the extras you’d expect from a pad like this, including Jacuzzi, sauna, secure parking, concierge service and a large private terrace.

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BRICKS&BITS HOUSE BUILDING TARGETS MISSED New Government figures show that 10,180 homes were built in the West Midlands last year – a shortfall of 10,620 on the 20,800 experts predict are required each year to keep pace with demand. David Orr, chief executive of the National Housing Federation, said: “The failure to cater for demand pushes up prices and leaves needy people out in the cold.”

NEW HOMES FOR HOSPITAL SITE A major property deal that will create hundreds of new homes at the former Selly Oak Hospital site has been clinched. Developer Persimmon Homes and the University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust exchanged contracts on the multi-million pound, 42.5-acre site, which became redundant with the completion of the QE Hospital in 2011.

£6.05M CITY DEAL HANDLED BY LODDERS The real estate team at Midlands law firm Lodders played a vital role in the sale of a converted mill at the Gateway to Leeds city centre by Coleshill-based company IM Properties. The Lodders team, led by partner Mark Lee, acted on the sale of Vanguard House for £6.05million to LaSalle Investment Management. Vanguard House was refurbished in 2001 to provide 28,435 sq ft of office space.

From the industry’s movers and shakers to the latest groundbreaking developments… email your property news and pictures to shelley@brumliving.co.uk

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GREAT LOCATION Harborne Village Apartments, Harborne Guide price: £135k Agent: Centrick Property, tel: 07899 894499 The Harborne Village Apartments are selling like hot cakes. In fact, at the time of going to press there are just two remaining. The development of one and two-bed apartments is slick and contemporary and crucially in a great spot on Harborne High Street. You’ll need to be quick to secure one.

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RURAL FARMHOUSE Glenhurst Farm, Claverdon Guide price: £950k Agent: Knight Frank, tel: 01789 297735 If you’re after idyllic rural living Glenhurst Farm ticks lots of boxes – exposed beams, open fires, an Aga, stables. We could go on and on. The house is spacious as well as characterful with five bedrooms and masses of entertaining space.

EDWARDIAN ELEGANCE Farquhar Road, Edgbaston Guide price: £1.7m Agent: James Laurence, tel: 0121 604 4060 If first impressions really do count this rambling Edwardian home is a winner with its stunning, bright hallway. Set in the heart of Edgbaston there are eight bedrooms, lots of reception space and a gorgeous garden to enjoy.

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HARBORNE HONEY Harborne townhouse Guide price: ÂŁ895k Agent: Robert Powell, tel: 0121 454 6530 This Harborne house goes on for miles and miles. The modest facade conceals a home with oodles of space thanks in part to a whopping extension that houses a show-stopping kitchen and stunning master suite. The finish is superb and the house feels luxurious from top to bottom.

Don’t miss Property of the Week on our Facebook page every Thursday

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ANTIQUES

TEA ANYONE? This month’s Antiques For Everyone show at the NEC will reveal a stirring story of Brum past and present

ow in its 30th year, Antiques for Everyone will again grace the halls of the NEC providing a hunting ground for collectors, interior designers and enthusiasts looking for that unique find. Each season the fair features a special area of interest and for Spring 2015 it centres around that very British institution – tea drinking which holds a particular significance for Brum.

When loose tea was first imported into Britain by the East India Company around 1660, it was a luxury commodity and was stored in ornate boxes known as tea caddies. The tea leaves were measured out in precise scoops using a caddy spoon and it is these quirky little items that will be on display, charting the social history of tea making and drinking from the 17th century to the present day.

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Boulton who argued that the trade would never truly prosper in Birmingham without its own Assay Office and he was finally rewarded by the Hallmarking Act. The society’s treasurer Brab Hallowes explains why the city was such an important centre for caddy spoons: “Birmingham was famous for its skilled workers and they were brilliant at bringing together all the key trades necessary to make and engrave amazing silverware. During times of war they would switch to arms and JEWELLERY QUARTER weaponry and then go back to making more decorative items in With a renewed interest in ‘real tea’ the days of the peacetime. There are still many silversmiths in the Jewellery caddy spoon are far from over and this exhibition, The Quarter making caddy spoons for special events such as Royal Story Of The Caddy Spoon c 1775-2015 presented by births and most recently the 2012 Olympics.” the Society of Caddy Spoon Collectors is sure to stir up After going through a lull in the 1960s because of the popularity plenty of interest – particularly because the of tea bags, caddy spoons are now a much sought after collector’s Birmingham Jewellery Quarter was the biggest item but are still within reach with prices starting from around £30 producer of caddy spoons in the UK. or £40 and rising to thousands for the rarest items. The exhibition It was the birth of the Birmingham Assay Office in will feature around 500 spoons in wood, ivory, glass, mother-of1773 that really turned the corner and established the pearl and even gold as well as the huge range of silver items, mostly city’s silversmiths, craftsmen and artisans who became made in Birmingham. I famous for their ornate and intricate work. The Assay Visit Antiques for Everyone, Halls 17-19, NEC, Birmingham B40 1NT, Office was founded by an Act of Parliament after 9-12 April www.antiquesforeveryone.co.uk vigorous lobbying by silversmiths, especially Matthew

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MOTORING

HERE COMES

THE SUN

Sue Cooke looks forward to summer in the sizzling new BMW 2-Series Convertible convertible has to combine three key ingredients – looks, performance and fun. And the new BMW 2-Series Convertible which has just gone on sale has more than enough of each.

It’s the first ever 2-Series Convertible but it’s not a new sector as it replaces the successful 1-Series open top. The four-seater is longer (by 72mm) and wider (by 26mm) than the model it replaces and has a wheelbase which has been elongated by 30mm. This gives better access and more passenger space. And the 0 litres to 335 litres, making it the largest in its class.

While two adults can fit into the rear seats, they wouldn’t be very comfortable on a long drive and anyway, open tops are always best experienced alone or in a cuddly twosome.

So, as soon as the sun peeks from behind a cloud or when you just fancy that great wake up wind-in-the-hair

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FACTS AT A GLANCE: Model: BMW 2-Series Convertible

experience, then the soft top hood will drop down in just over 20 seconds while driving at speeds up to 30mph. With the easier to use wind deflector in place, there is little air buffeting. From outside the vehicle, there’s an optional key fob facility to open and close the hood.

THE ‘M’ FACTOR Then it’s just a matter of choosing one of the four Twin power turbo engines available, finding one of the few, traffic-free, open roads in the Midlands and clearing out the cobwebs. There is a new 2.0-litre diesel 220d engine which is my personal preference with lots of pulling power, efficient combined fuel economy of 60.1mpg and low CO2 emissions of 124g/km.

What the 2-Series has over the Audi A3 Cabriolet, which is perhaps its only competitor, is a super-fast engine. For the first time in a BMW convertible, there

Price: £29,180 otr Engine: 220i Sport Performance: 0-62mph in 7.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 144mph CO2 emissions: 159g/km Combined fuel consumption: 41.5mpg

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is an M Performance variant, the M235i. The 3.0-litre, six-cylinder engine in the M235i has a very powerful 326hp and will reach 62mph in just 5.2 seconds.

Which makes it a great car for fast and safe overtaking or achieving quick access on to a roundabout.

With traditional BMW rear-wheel drive, the 2-Series has a more rigid body and advanced safety features and will stay in good contact with the tarmac, but BMW says there is an all-wheel drive version on the horizon too. Steering is precise so cornering, particularly in sport mode, is completed without diversion.

And then when it’s time to get back to reality and the hood is in place, the 2-Series provides a comfortable and quiet interior with three layers of insulation which BMW says provides a 4db noise reduction acoustic improvement over the 1-Series.

What I find disconcerting when I get into any BMW is that the foot pedals are offset to the right, but after a couple of miles I soon become acclimatised.

Standard specification on all models is comprehensive and includes alloy wheels, automatic air-conditioning, drive performance control, keyless go, a sport instrument cluster, dual dark chrome exhaust tailpipes for 220i and

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220d Sport models, sports seats and a sport multi-function leather steering wheel. The 220i and 220d Luxury models are distinguished by a raft of upgrades including larger alloy wheels, dual chrome exhaust tailpipes and Dakota leather upholstery. M Sport versions have their own luxury specification.

Sometimes I have to remind myself when I’m driving a car like the new BMW 2-Series Convertible, feeling the hot sun on the back of my neck and drooling over the miles of empty road ahead, that I do actually need to turn round and go back home!

Sue Cooke can be found tweeting at @cookecars

SHOWROOM: Sytner Birmingham, 20 Parade, Birmingham B1 3QJ. Tel: 0121 234 6000 www.sytnerbirminghambmw.co.uk

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YOUNG, GIFTED & BRUMMIE

INDICA CAMPBELL The singer-songwriter tells Shelley Carter how she relished being chucked in at the deep end in Spain and why she’s fiercely independent

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ndica Campbell might be the daughter of Brummie legend and UB40 frontman Ali Campbell, but cries of nepotism would be misguided here. The 21-year-old has funded her own music projects and is doing the rounds on the circuit like any other gigging musician as well as earning a crust working at venues when she’s not performing in them.

“I’m really proud of the fact I’ve got this far by myself. Dad is naturally supportive, but I’ve done this.” This year looks set to be a pivotal one for Indica with her first official gigs in the pipeline including top venues like the Barclaycard Arena and Brixton Academy as well as performing at the Livestock Festival in the summer. But she hasn’t always hankered after a career in music and spent much of her late teenage years ensconced in Spain studying art which is still a major passion.

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LANGUAGE BARRIER Indica moved to Spain with her mother when she was 10, so dad Ali wasn’t a daily influence when she was growing up. She didn’t speak any Spanish at the time of the move and everything was a bit alien at her new school. “I was definitely thrown in at the deep end, but it forced me to pick up the language pretty quickly. I’d like to do it again actually – maybe France. It challenges you.”

Indica is fluent and stayed in Spain beyond her school days studying at prestigious art college, Escuela de Artee, San Telmo in Malaga, so she’s no slouch behind an easel as well as a microphone. “It was at college when I started singing really. My flatmate and I used to play a bit and it was like a break from our studies. I enjoyed it.”

Now living in Brum and gigging with her regular band of five, Indica’s pleased with how things are going but I wonder if she’s ever been tempted to go down the fast track X Factor route? The answer is an emphatic no. “I like being in control. That wouldn’t be a route I would consider.”

Indica’s influences are an eclectic mix of artists such as The Gorillas, Amy Winehouse and Kate Bush. “I don’t have a particular favourite genre.

Some of my tracks sound bluesy and others are jazz inspired, so it’s quite varied.” The sweet simplicity of her latest track Never Imagined is understated and refreshing. There are no tricks – just a pure voice and a pleasing melody and well worth a listen.

FUTURE AMBITION So what’s next? At the time of going to press, Indica’s EP is about to be released and available to download from iTunes which is “pretty exciting” and refreshingly she isn’t talking about world domination or selling out the O2. She might be part of a generation that it’s easy to assume has little patience, but Indica prefers to build slowly, enjoying gigging and getting better.

As you’d expect social media is a tool Indica’s harnessing to build her following, but she’s keen to point out that it’s all her and there isn’t a PR person pulling the strings behind the scenes.

While fiercely independent, she is about to support her dad along with two other members of UB40, Astro and Michael at the Barclaycard Arena and Brixton Academy, but ultimately she’ll be up on stage with her band singing her material doing it her way. The commitment to her craft is admirable and we’ll be following Indica’s career with interest. I CHART INDICA’S PROGRESS Check out her music on Soundcloud https://soundcloud.com/indicacampbell Indica is supporting Ali, Astro and Michael at the Barclaycard Arena on 17 April. More dates at www.indicacampbell.co.uk

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GROWING PLACES

CHARITY SETS ENTERPRISING CHALLENGE An initiative by Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice enabled schools in the city to boost pupils’ financial skills and give them a greater understanding of working with a local charity. In conjunction with Barclays Snow Hill, the hospice created the Business Enterprise Challenge that involved King’s Norton Girls School, Earl’s High School and Priory School, Edgbaston. All students taking part had to create a businessfocused fund-raising project with the victors from King’s Norton scooping the top prize by generating a pot of £2,143.

SCHOOL REPORT

mmitted to highlighting Birmingham Living is co r and colleges. Here’s ou the best of our schools ents stand-out news and ev round-up of the latest

TRAILBLAZER: Jenny with her award

GIRL POWER RULES WAVES FOR JENNIFER A 15-year-old has made history by being the first girl in Birmingham Sea Scouts to gain the coveted Chief Scout’s Platinum Award. Jennifer Henery first won her Duke of Edinburgh’s Bronze Award and then went on to gain the highest possible accolade for a scout under the age of 16. “As far as I am concerned, anything a boy can do a girl can do better!” said a delighted Jennifer of the Indomitable Explorer Unit at 1st Sutton Coldfield Sea Scouts.

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ON THE BALL: Moreton Hall’s winning lacrosse team

TOP EIGHT IN THE UK Two of Moreton Hall’s teams finished in the top eight schools in the UK at the Rathbones National Schools’ Lacrosse Championships held at Surrey Sports Park. Stiff competition from more than 50 schools saw Moreton triumph over many larger rivals during the four-day event. School head of sport Kate Groves said: “To have such strong results across the first, second, Under 14 and Under 15 teams is very exciting.”

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SUCCESS ON THE PITCH The Under 11 Hallfield School football team took part in the ISFA Midlands Regional seven-a-side tournament at Repton coming a close second to RGS Worcester. Both teams qualified for the National Finals in May at the National Training Centre at St George’s, Burton-upon-Trent. It’s the second time in three seasons that the team has qualified for the finals.

FINANCE FIRST: Students Shane Aktar, Haawo Abdullahi and Mohammed Mahid, with Sian Etheridge (Holte School) and Jack Stables and Luke Brown (both NatWest)

MONEY MATTERS Year 13 students from Holte School, Lozells, were treated to a series of finance and business workshops run by NatWest to help them with financial planning as they enter higher education or employment for the first time. Topics included debt management, loans, budgeting and bank cards. Sian Etheridge, the school’s vocational manager, said: “This is part of an ongoing programme to prepare our young people for real-life situations and enable them to make informed decisions about their future.”

HOCKEY TEAM CROWNED CHAMPS St Martin’s Year 7 hockey A team showed great determination and competitive spirit to triumph in the West Midlands Hockey tournament. The team now goes through to play the winning schools of all the other counties, representing the West Midlands County, on 23 April at Cannock Hockey Club.

WINNING APPRENTICE WORKS WITH SUGAR Zoe Turnecliffe, apprentice commis chef in pastry at the Hyatt Regency Birmingham has been named winner of the Hospitality Advanced Apprentice Award 2015. The awards took place at the House of Commons where MP Mike Freer welcomed guests.

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Debra Warren, training manager in HR at the Hyatt Regency, said: “Zoe showed natural talent and passion from the beginning, so we quickly offered her the opportunity to join the company and work with BCU to get a qualification.”

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HERITAGE CENTRE PLANS UNVEILED

BUSINESS NEWS

The first glimpse of plans to transform a former fire station in Handsworth into a heritage attraction has been released. The threestorey building owned by South and City College Birmingham will be transformed into the People’s Heritage and Arts Centre. Legacy WM and Urban Archive CIC, who are leading the project, need to raise £1.5 million to fund the transformation. Interior architects Monteith Scott, based in the Jewellery Quarter, are just one of the local businesses providing their services free of charge.

HOTEL HONOURS TEAM 100 Macdonald Burlington Hotel has honoured young stars from the local community by sponsoring the Prince’s Trust Team 100 ceremony, which celebrated youngsters who have raised money for key projects. Team 100, the 100th team of students from Birmingham Metropolitan College to complete the Prince’s Trust Team Programme, were commended for their efforts in raising money and refurbishing the city’s derelict Bishop Latimer Church Hall.

CLASSIC LIFT-OFF Classic Kitchens celebrated the launch of its new Redditch showroom with an open day that raised more than £1,000 for Acorns Children’s Hospice. Guests included the Mayor of Redditch Pat Witherspoon and the hospice’s mascot Alex the Acorn. Owner Gareth Davis said: “We are grateful to our suppliers and local businesses who donated prizes and helped raise funds for a worthy charity.”

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VEHICLE FIRM’S

BIG BOOST

A six-figure investment has seen vehicle repair specialist DJ Willis & Sons open a new site in Wednesbury.

Founded in 1992, the family-owned business services private and commercial fleets across the West Midlands, also acting as a major maintenance and breakdown support provider to West Midlands Special Needs Transport. The investment will fund new equipment and establish a workshop based on Weston Way Industrial Estate.

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BUSINESS

CORRIE STAR LOOKS SHARP

AT SALON OPENING Soap star Samia Ghadie got to grips with shampoo and scissors when she was given some top trim tips by Dean Vinning as she opened his new Sixth Sense salon. The actress who plays Maria Connor in Coronation Street, joined beauty bloggers and professionals at the launch party in Sutton Coldfield. Guests were treated to champagne, canapés and goody bags containing products from the Wella & Sebastian range. Dean has worked and trained with some of the UK leading hair brands including Toni & Guy, Vidal Sasson, Regis International and Saks.

WINE FIRM BREAKS CROWDFUNDING TARGET Birmingham-based Soul Tree Wine has exceeded a £350,000 crowdfunding target to put Indian wine on the map. The company has successfully concluded its pitch on the UK crowdfunding platform Crowdcube, raising £388,000 from 235 investors in return for an 18.29 per cent equity stake in the business. Soul Tree Wine was launched in 2011 by Melvin D’Souza and Alok Mathur with a vision to establish Indian wine in the international mainstream.

VEGGIE DUO NAMED FOOD STARS Katie McDermott and Jane Whitehead have every reason to smile – they’ve just been named UK Food Stars. The Birmingham duo set up Not Dogs to provide exciting, good-quality vegetarian hot dogs at festivals around the country. They are one of seven Midlands start-ups and family businesses to have made the list of the UK’s 50 most promising food and drink entrepreneurs under the Government’s Food Stars scheme.

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CHINA DEAL TO BRING TOURIST BOOM TO BRUM A new programme of charter flights from Beijing will bring nearly 4,000 Chinese tourists to Birmingham this summer, contributing £19 million to the regional economy. Birmingham Airport and Visit Britain announced the deal which sees Hainan Airlines operate twice-weekly flights in July and August. The airport also unveiled its new branding – Birmingham Airport, Shakespeare’s Airport – which will be used in China to promote Birmingham as a gateway to the region.

DINNER DATE WITH GYLES Broadcaster, author and raconteur Gyles Brandreth will be the special guest speaker at Birmingham Chambers of Commerce annual awards dinner on 23 April. Sharing the platform will be another key speaker, Andy Street, the boss of John Lewis who is chairman of the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership. The event will be hosted by former ITV weather presenter Emma Jesson at the ICC.

NOW THAT REALLY IS A MONSTER SIGN! Signs and graphics firm Hollywood Monster has printed and designed a 440-metre-long hoarding in double quick time for Westfield London as the retail giant embarks on a £1billion extension. Birmingham’s biggest graphics solutions business produced the striking hoarding for the centre in just four days. It took five days to install it on site.

JONATHAN’S TRAINEE OF THE YEAR PRIZE Plumber Jonathan Evans, 20, from Birmingham, has been named JTL Trainee of the Year at the training provider’s annual awards ceremony in the City of London. Jonathan completed his traineeship with Interserve Engineering Services, a leading support service and construction company. JTL is one of the UK’s leading training providers for young people.

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RECORD HIGH FOR OUR EXPORTS Exports from the West Midlands have reached a record high.

New figures from Revenue & Customs show the region’s exports reached £28.6 billion last year, an increase of 5.8 per cent on 2013. The figures have helped the West Midlands become the third largest exporting region in the UK. A growth in goods to China was a highlight, worth £5.3 billion – that’s an increase of 32 per cent.

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COMPANY TO WATCH

MAHIRS EXPERIENCE A family business that started in a small Indian deli on Soho Road has become one of the UK’s top catering and events companies arvir Sahota is the perfect example of working your way through a business from the bottom to the top. As a youngster growing up he grabbed the chance to earn a bit of extra money at weekends by working in the small Indian deli opened by his family in Soho Road, Birmingham. “That’s how I got the taste for this business, it was a great background and great way to get experience,” he says.

The shop which opened in the 70s is no longer there, mind. Its freshly-made Indian sweets and savouries proved so popular that Harvir’s father Mahir and his brother Ajmer were soon being inundated with requests to offer their treats as a catering service for outdoor events. As word spread about the quality of their food, the ‘events’ business became bigger and bigger – to the point where they launched Mahirs Experience.

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Today, Harvir is the MD of a Birmingham success story that has won a clutch of awards including being named Outstanding Asian Business by the Institute of Asian Businesses. Mahirs provides authentic Indian cuisine for events of all shapes and sizes, private and corporate, as one of the UK’s leading catering and events companies. They don’t just supply food these days, but the full works, décor, lighting, entertainment, and so on.

The firm works with some of the biggest, high profile venues across the country as well as locally at centres including the likes of the ICC, Town Hall, Villa Park, University of Birmingham, the Hawthorns, Edgbaston Cricket Ground and Hagley Hall to name but a few.

Despite the expansion, Mahirs retains the important elements that have made it unique. All its food is still

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much want to diversify into, the likes of large festivals too. As a caterer with a traditionally outdoor background, this type of venture lends itself very well to our profile.”

Mahirs doubled the size of its premises by moving from Smethwick to a new base in West Bromwich a couple of years ago and part of the plan was to develop a training and apprenticeship programme on-site to encourage more youngsters into the hospitality business. handmade and freshly prepared using a combination of traditional and contemporary methods. And while it remains very much a family business – Harvir’s sister Harjit is the finance guru, while his mother Parmjit and father Mahir are also still involved – recruiting some of the finest chefs from around the world has allowed the offering to grow to accommodate Gujarati, South Indian, Kashmiri, Indo Fusion, Oriental and European cuisine.

Harvir said: “Mahirs now does a huge range of events covering every possible venue from hotels, country homes, sports stadia, marquees and more. One of the areas that I want the business to become more involved in is pop-up restaurants. Since Wasps rugby moved to the Ricoh Arena in Coventry we’ve been doing pop-up food for the fans. Our sub-brand Love Chicken Tikka offers an alternative to the traditional match-day hotdogs and has proved to be very popular.”

As we spoke, Mahirs had also opened a pop-up restaurant as part of the Amusement 13 street food festival in Digbeth. “This is the kind of thing we very

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SKILLS SHORTAGE “A personal ambition of mine is to train more people moving forwards,” said Harvir. “As an industry, unless we do something about it, we are going to face a skills shortage as young people don’t see hospitality as a career for them. The ongoing tightening of immigration policies also makes it harder to bring in people with the background in Indian food, so it is very important that we teach and pass our knowledge on.

“We are just finishing our training rooms here which will allow us to take regular numbers, I would say into double figures, on an annual basis. I’m not saying we will be able to offer them all a job at the end of the courses, but they will be equipped to make their way into the industry. We are actively talking to local colleges about setting up training schemes.”

If all goes well, Harvir will be offering local youngsters the chance to learn about the business from the ground up – just as he did himself all those years ago. I

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RED CARPET WELCOMES FIFTY SHADES OF GREY It’s party time as cinema adds extra dash of sex in the city to Southside

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special event was held to mark the release of the film Fifty Shades of Grey at the Electric Cinema in the city’s Southside. Organised and hosted by Lotty Harper PR, guests were given star treatment as paparazzi bulbs flashed as they made their way down a red carpet to the entrance of the UK’s oldest working cinema. After seeing the film they were whisked off in red double-decker buses to the after party at Metro Bar & Grill. A raffle for St Mary’s Hospice raised £800. I

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1 Simon Ball, Mary McGarry, Donna Steward, Mary Burrows, Philip Jones. 2 Russel Smith, Tommy Nash, Colin Phipps. 3 Bryan Manley Green, Elizabeth and Tony Taylor. 4 Lotty and Karl Harper. 5 Claudia Noon, Charlotte Chandler, Rhoda Fraser. 6 Nick Malenko, Royston Blythe.

7 Russel and Amira Smith. 8 Tiffany Noble, Stephnie Hancock, Sarah Hume. 9 Barbara and Stuart Pemble, Ragi and Natalie Singh.

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LEADING ARTIST OPENS CITY CENTRE GALLERY Reuben Colley brings exciting new artistic direction to Colmore Row n award-winning Birmingham artist who has enjoyed sell-out exhibitions in London and his home city welcomed guests to the opening of a new art gallery in Colmore Row. Reuben Colley will be displaying his paintings alongside works from masters such as Picasso, Lowry, Warhol and Damien Hirst. Reuben Colley Fine Art gallery manager, Tim Ison said: “Birmingham city centre needs an independent art gallery which is willing to push boundaries. Reuben has the passion and Colmore Row is the perfect location for us.� I

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6 Reuben Colley Fine Art, 85-89 Colmore Row, Birmingham B3 2BB

1 Grace Sanderson, Sam Leaver, Felix Waters. 2 Phil Newland, Monica Mackintosh, Nigel Baker. 3 Reuben Colley, Mark Waters.

4 Steve Sanders, Joanna Colley, Steve Tamplin. 5 James Byrne, Annette Pugh, Anthony O'Rorke. 6 Linda Leaver, Andy Leaver, Darren Leaver, Steve Withers, Clare Withers. 7 Tom Leaver, Abby McKay-Hipwell. 8 Diane Benussi, Paul Bassi. 9 Paul and Jennie Anderson.

10 Simon Thompson, Philippa Pickavance.

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LADIES LOOK SHARP FOR EDWARD SCISSORHANDS Hippodrome guests treated to cutting edge insight into a romantic classic

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eading Ladies at Birmingham Hippodrome were at the cutting edge of dance when Edward Scissorhands lead Liam Mower and members of Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures company shared backstage tales of the adaptation of Tim Burton’s classic film.

Among guests were new network associate sponsor Highfield Wellness and Beauty owner Mark Harvey with spa managers Laura and Beth. AVA Event Styling provided a stunning display which included Edward Scissorhands themed cupcakes courtesy of @cakemodacakes. Prize draw partners Creative Shift, Genting Casino, MakeUp Central, Kyoto Sushi & Grill and Langley’s Gin helped raise £1,000 for the Curtain Raiser project. I

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1 Etta Murfitt, Ruth Pipkin, Danny Collins, Lisa O’Keeffe, Katy Lowenhoff, Bethan McKnight, Lina Solanki. 2 Amy Grzegorzek, Amanda Plester.

3 Sonia Hall, Helen Dyke, Siobhan Mulrey, Christina Pendleton. 4 Julie Eden, Carol Summers. 5 Danny Collins 6 Mark Harvey, Beth Rose, Laura Smith. 7 Vicky Lee, Adelaide Heagney, Hark Dander. 8 Jennie Dale, Gemma Knight. 9 Jenni Sutcliffe, Sara Ann Cromwell, Sybilla Rose.

Photography by Vivienne Bailey

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NEW BISTRO AND BAR OPENS UP AT THE REP Lid lifted on Marmalade as VIPs get taste of theatre’s freshest addition armalade – Bitters ‘n Twisted’s new bistro and bar at Birmingham Rep – was officially opened with a VIP event. Overlooking Centenary Square, Marmalade features an eclectic mix of furnishings and bold decor offering a warm and inviting environment with a relaxed dining area serving simple, tasty food. The bar features quality wines, local ales, craft bottle beers and a range of cocktails. Bitters ‘n Twisted was launched by Matt Scriven in 2006 and also operates the Jekyll and Hyde, Bodega, the Rose Villa Tavern, Island Bar and the New Inn Harborne. I

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6 Marmalade, Centenary Square, Broad Street, Birmingham B1 2EP. Tel 0121 245 2080 www.marmaladebirmingham.co.uk

1 Tahreem Bhatti, performance poet Lorna Meehan, Elaine Weir. 2 Rachel New, Paliv Vari, James Bovill. 3 Tina Bates, Philippa Long, Sally Anne Morris, Jo Cox. 4 Vicky Liner-Douglas, Roz Jeynes, Laura Creavan. 5 Darron and Jo Billings, Lyle Bignon. 6 Tony Matters, Hanna Carlton, Sandra Field. 7 Martin Recker, Paul Reece. 8 Jon Tipton, Jeremy Kynaston. 9 Jonathan Carter, Phil Brown. 10 Graham Smith, Matt Scriven.

Photography by Graeme Braidwood

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EVENING OF DANCE PREVIEWS FESTIVAL Arts and business leaders hear exciting plans for International Dance Festival 2016

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anceXchange and Birmingham Hippodrome, coproducers of the award-winning International Dance Festival Birmingham, presented an evening of dance previewing plans for the festival’s fifth edition in May 2016. DanceXchange artistic director David Massingham and Hippodrome chief executive Stuart Griffiths welcomed representatives from the region’s arts organisations, funders, city businesses, sponsors and dance artists. French choreographer Mickael ‘Marso’ Riviere presented a duet from his latest production The Nutbreaker.

Guests also watched 2Faced Dance’s brand new double bill Dreaming in Code in the Patrick Centre as part of DanceXchange’s spring season 2015. I

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1 Malcolm McGivan, Carnette Richardson-Jacquet, Clare Lewis, John and Peta Houlden. 2 Lisa Sullivan, Tamsin Fitzgerald, Daisy Moorcroft, Adele Thomas. 3 Pippa Whittaker, Corey Baker, Hannah Sharpe. 4 Jilly Cosgrove, Chris Brown. 5 Katie Scott, Jon Bentley 6 Matt Burman, Annie Mahtani, James Allenby, Rosie Kay. 7 Ellie Beedham, Mickael ‘Marso’ Riviere, Louise Wildish 8 Alessandro Columbano, Sophie Hamen.

9 Stuart Griffiths, Councillor Penny Holbrook, Peter Knott, David Massingham.

Photography by Phil Hitchman

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SILKS CELEBRATE HIGH COURT APPOINTMENT Law firm No5 Chambers hails one of its own as Ian Dove QC is named top judge eading law firm No5 Chambers celebrated the appointment of one of its silks, Ian Dove QC, as a High Court judge. During 28 years at No5 Chambers, Mr Dove has been appointed a Recorder Crown and County Court, part-time immigration judge, part-time member of the Immigration Appeal Tribunal, deputy High Court judge and an honorary professor at University of Birmingham. The celebratory event was held at the Gherkin in London and attended by senior representatives of the legal profession. I

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1 Adriene Copithorne, Jeny Wigley, Lisa Foster. 2 Heather Pugh, Julia Foster, Nick Freer. 3 Paul Bleasdale QC, Mr Justice Dove, Tony McDaid. 4 Steve Buckley, Richard Jones QC, Martin John. 5 Lindsay Garratt, Karen Cooksley, Collette McCormack. 6 Linda Evans, Clare Smith, Adam Collins, Oscar Redif. 7 Ian Sadler, Jim Tarzey. 8 Rankeshwar Batta, Victoria Fullilove, Satinder Hunjan QC. 9 Martin Hulbert, Katherine Allen.

Photography by Jas Sansi

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FIGHT TO BE TOP CHEF IS HOTTER THAN EVER Wing Yip searches for a future star with a real taste for Oriental food

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he flour was flying and the temperature was going off the scale at the Wing Yip Oriental Cookery Young Chef of the Year competition held at the University College Birmingham. It was the third year that Wing Yip, the Birmingham-based UK-leading Oriental grocer, had sponsored the contest to find the best 18 to 25year-old chef from 15 finalists from across the UK with a real flair for Pan Asian flavours. Judges included Brum’s own Michelin-starred celebrity chef Glynn Purnell and Larkin Cen, the 2013 MasterChef finalist. I

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1 Emma Lim, 2014 winner Robert Hall, Raymond Steplin, Matthew Jones. 2 Boyd Snelling, Dez Turland, Jake Bawn. 3 Matt Davis, Bethany Jeavons, Lewis O'Carroll. 4 Peter Griffiths, Don Hacker. 5 Joseph Clayton. 6 Matt Davis, Glynn Purnell, Lewis O'Carroll. 7 Henry Yap, Larkin Cen. 8 Hannah Westphalen, Raymond Steplin. 9 Winner Gemma Field and her mother Elizabeth Worrall.

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PARTYGOERS WELCOME THE YEAR OF THE SHEEP Henry Wong and guests hail the Chinese New Year with dash of style and tradition

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he Chinese New Year was celebrated in real style at one of the best parties in town at Henry Wong, Harborne. Specially invited guests enjoyed great food and cocktails and were also entertained by a traditional lion dance as the community ushered in the Year of the Sheep. I

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1 Gary Dodd, Julie Baker, Linda and Geoff Deeley. 2 The Choy Lee Fut Dance Team. 3 Amid Alam, Marriane Liu, Ricky Wu, Gretchan Alam.

4 Maggee Bott, Terry and Val Baxter. 5 Laura and Nigel Wright, Marianne Liu. 6 Joanne Yorath, Christine Bohemia, Lisa Steventon, Mary McGarry, Yasmin Ho. 7 Paul and Margaret Gaynham, Sally and Wilf Jones. 8 Simon and Pamela Skett, Ruth and Barry Melson.

9 Karine Hauser, Mark Gribben, Sheka Gandhi.

Photography by Jas Sansi

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WHAT: The Pirates of Penzance WHEN: 29 April to 2 May WHERE: The Crescent Theatre, tel 0121 643 5858 www.crescent-theatre.co.uk Tinkers Farm Opera presents an all-new production of the Gilbert and Sullivan masterpiece. A modern interpretation led from the front by a youthful principal line-up, backed by the renowned TFO Chorus.

WHAT: Foodies Festival WHEN: 15 to 17 May WHERE: Birmingham Cannon Hill Park, tel 0844 995 1111 www.foodiesfestival.com The UK’s largest celebration of food and drink is coming to Brum. With some of the country’s finest chefs on show, this cracking event includes live demonstrations, chilli food market, wine and champagne theatre – and a chance for the kids to cook, too.

WHAT: Antiques for Everyone WHEN: 9 to 12 April WHERE: NEC Birmingham, tel 0844 581 0827 www.antiquesforeveryone.co.uk Now in its 20th year, the UK’s largest and most prestigious fair of the spring season returns to Brum. With more than 100,000 items on sale from decorative furniture, ceramics and silver to armour, maps and dolls there is something for every budget.

WHAT: The Chicago Blues Brothers WHEN: 18 April WHERE: New Alexandra Theatre, tel 0844 8713011 www.atgtickets.com/birmingham Following their massively successful international Sweet Home Chicago tour, this action-packed show returns with a seven-piece live band to celebrate the very best blues, Motown and soul music from the iconic movies.

WHAT: Texas WHEN: 19 April WHERE: Symphony Hall, box office 0121 345 0600 www.thsh.co.uk To mark their 25th anniversary, Texas are embarking on a brand new tour performing tracks from their first studio release in eight years, The Conversation.

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WHAT: Marc Almond WHEN: 17 April WHERE: Town Hall, box office 0121 345 0600 www.thsh.co.uk Iconic singer and performer Marc Almond visits Birmingham following a tour with Jools Holland and the release of his much-awaited new album The Velvet Trail.

WHAT: Boyz II Men WHEN: 12 May WHERE: O2 Academy Birmingham, tel 0121 622 8250 www.o2academybirmingham.co.uk

WHAT: Acorns Dog Walk WHEN: 17 May

One of the most successful R&B vocal group ever having sold more than 60 million albums worldwide. Famed for over 20 years, their hits include End of the Road and I'll Make Love To You. Minimum age is eight.

WHERE: Sutton Park, tel: 01564 825 023

WHAT: Wedding Fair

WHAT: Pasha Kovalev –

WHEN: 12 April

Life Through Dance

WHERE: The Rep, tel 0121 245 2024

WHEN: 7 April

or email thespaces@birmingham-rep.co.uk

WHERE: Solihull Arts Complex,

Get inspired at this magical wedding fair which starts with a Champagne cocktail, music and a goody bag overflowing with ideas and advice. There’s a variety of suppliers to help create the perfect day.

tel 0121 704 6962

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www.acorns.org.uk/dogwalk Acorns Children’s Hospice is calling on pups and pooches to put their best paw forward for the return of its furriest fund-raising event.

Suitable for dogs and owners of all ages and abilities with the choice of a scenic 3km stroll or 6km walk.

www.solihullartscomplex.co.uk In this great new show, TV’s Strictly star Pasha and his sensational dancers whisk the audience into the world of ballroom and Latin with all its glitter and sequins.

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WHAT: Essence of Ireland WHEN: 11 April WHERE: Palace Theatre Redditch, tel 01527 65203 www.redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk Based on true events and set against the backdrop of Ireland, England and America in the 19th century, this is a heart-warming story of love, joy and heartache.

WHAT: Birmingham Is Funny: WHAT: 5 Soldiers

Mickey D – Run

WHEN: 23 to 25 April

WHEN: 18 April

WHERE: Birmingham Rep, tel 0121 245 2024

WHERE: mac Birmingham,

www.birmingham-rep.co.uk

tel 0121 446 3232

A striking performance where the audience is unusually seated on the stage, this unique work provides an intimate view of the training that prepares soldiers for combat and the impact conflict has on the bodies and minds of everyone it reaches.

www.macbirmingham.co.uk The international headliner returns with his new show. For fresh comedy, honest truths and an hour of solid jokes this is the place to be.

WHAT: Artists for Ikon WHEN: 24 April to 4 May WHERE: Ikon Gallery, tel 0121 248 0708 www.ikon-gallery.org The 50th anniversary celebrations culminate with an exhibition followed by a major art auction at Sotheby’s, London. Works have been donated by some of the most important contemporary artists, all of whom have exhibited at Ikon. The proceeds will help support artists of the future.

WHAT: Brett Dennen WHEN: 15 April

WHAT: Shrek the Musical

WHERE: Glee Club Birmingham, tel 0871 472 0400

WHEN: Until 26 April

www.glee.co.uk/birmingham

WHERE: Birmingham Hippodrome, tel 0844 338 5000

Named by Rolling Stone magazine as an artist to watch,the Californian folk/pop singer-songwriter is touring with his fifth album Smoke and Mirrors.

www.birminghamhippodrome.com

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Based on the award-winning DreamWorks animation film, join the unlikely hero and his loyal steed Donkey as they embark on a quest to rescue the beautiful Princess Fiona from a fire-breathing, lovesick dragon.

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WHAT: The Spring Pink Ball for Breast Cancer Charities with Marks Brothers WHEN: 18 April WHERE: Nailcote Hall, tel: 02476 466174 www.nailcotehall.co.uk The annual black tie/pink tie charity event at the Hall which is always a great craic. Entertainment, raffle, auction and dancing to the soul and funky sounds of the Marks Brothers.

WHAT: S Club 7 WHEN: 7 May WHERE: Genting Arena, tel 0844 338 8000 www.ticketfactory.com After a triumphant performance on BBC’s Children In Need, S Club 7 return to the music scene with their first tour in more than 10 years.

WHAT: Paul McCartney WHEN: 27 May WHERE: Barclaycard Arena, tel 0844 338 8000 www.theticketfactory.com The Out There tour features music from one of the best-loved catalogues in popular music with songs that span McCartney’s entire career – as a solo artist, member of Wings and of course as a Beatle.

WHAT: Ladies Charity Lunch WHEN: 13 May WHERE: Botanical Gardens, tel 0121 454 1860 www.birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk Have fun and get some hot style tips while raising money for this awesome charity. Personal stylist Beth Goodrham shares her fashion essentials for the summer season.

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IN THE CITY

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I love strolling though Brum and simply taking in the city, its skyline and its people. It really does inspire me

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF I am P J Ellis, director of Bareface Media, a local full service marketing and advertising agency. We won a Birmingham Post Business Award last year, so we’re pretty good! I am also CEO of the new LoveBrum charity which reaches out to Birmingham’s hidden-gem projects that are delivering real change to our awesome city.

HOW DO YOU GET INTO TOWN? I am based on Temple Row in the city and also have offices in the Custard Factory, Digbeth so I split my time between the Four Oaks to New Street London Midland train (ouch!!) and driving into work. The latter is pretty easy as I’m an early bird and miss the mad-rush on the Aston Expressway.

LUNCHTIME? I try to sample as many eateries as possible in the city but Fumo is probably my favourite. I recently tried the Sunflower Lounge and it was cracking. In Digbeth it’s definitely the Old Crown. They are doing 2-4-1 burgers on a Tuesday now (don’t tell the wife).

POWERWALKING? I love strolling though Brum and simply taking in the city, its skyline and its people. It really does inspire me.

WHERE'S YOUR FAVOURITE PART OF THE CITY? I love it all. I love Digbeth. It is super-cool. The city centre, and especially Colmore Row, is buzzing with activity and Pigeon Park is a must in the summer. Brindleyplace is lovely and Eastside is also on the up. I live in Four Oaks, Sutton Coldfield and have some great pubs, restaurants, schools and Sutton Park on the doorstep.

HOW'S THE COMMUTE? I actually like it. I am very CEO of LoveBrum, P J Ellis passionate about my work so am generally excited to get the day underway. Plus, it gives me an undisturbed 20 to 30 minutes to really relax into my day AFTERWORK PINT? – thinking about beaches, family, friends, and Birmingham A nice Smoky Cocktail at Fumo, G&T (Langleys City winning the FA Cup! On the train, I’ll read a book or please!) at the Jekyll & Hyde or a Scotch whisky in the catch up on the news.

Old Contemptibles.

IS BRUM A GOOD PLACE TO WORK IN? It’s amazing. I have worked in places such as London and Liverpool but I always found myself coming back to Birmingham. The people are fantastic and there are plenty of opportunities.

COFFEE BREAK? City centre, usually Yorks Bakery or Urban Coffee.

Digbeth, probably Yumm.

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HOW CAN THE CITY BE MADE BETTER? By supporting LoveBrum. You’ll be celebrating us as a city, supporting real change and making sure the drum is beaten hard enough to really put us back on the map.

More investment is needed in cycle paths, and more businesses need to embrace their CSR days and unite to celebrate local projects that are really making a difference.

Automatic places in the Premier League for all the Midlands clubs would also be welcomed! I

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