Birmingham Living 156 2026

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MIDLANDS MAGAZINE OF THE YEAR

July/August 2026

THE PEDONE COLLECTIVE

DRESSED TO SIZZLE

CHEF TIM JENKINS

BIRMINGHAM ROYAL BALLET

THEATRE DESIGNER

ROB HOWELL

DANCING IN THE STREETS

TAI CHI WALKING

MATT HUDSON-SMITH BRUM’S MEDAL-WINNING TRACK STAR GETS SET FOR EURO HOMETOWN GLORY

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EDITOR’S VIEW

W

ho can forget the amazing show Birmingham put on for the Commonwealth Games. The overwhelming view of our city, from those who took part from around the world, to those who came to watch in person or on TV, was one of total joy. The best experience in the Games’ history.

Now, the city has the chance to repeat that success as top track and field stars come to town for the 2026 European Athletics Championships in August. It says a lot for the profile of Brum, and its history of producing world-class athletes, that the sport chose us and our wonderful Alexander Stadium to host the championships for the first time in the UK. One thing you can bank on is that we won’t disappoint. Nobody puts on a show quite like we do!

In a perfect piece of timing, we got to speak with one of GB’s track stars, Matt Hudson-Smith, for this month’s Cover Story. Not only is Matt a multi-European and Olympic medallist, he’s also the hometown face of the championships – even having a stand at the Alexander Stadium specially named after him for the event. A fitting tribute to someone who virtually grew up as a child calling the stadium his home.

This issue of Birmingham Living is brimming with incredible talent, whether it be in sports or the arts.

Our second feature provides stunning images of stars from Birmingham Royal Ballet celebrating their love for their home city to coincide with the 100th birthday of legendary director and choreographer, Sir Peter Wright. Plus, we also talk to four of Birmingham’s most talented artists as they form a Collective to take their art around the world.

City of Sport, City of Dance and City of Art. Bravo Birmingham!

s n h o J d i Dav

visit www.brumliving.co.uk Cover image:

HOMETOWN HERO: Matt Hudson-Smith Picture: British Athletics via Getty Images

@brum_living

/bhamliving

FINALIST

WINNER

EDITOR: David Johns david@brumliving.co.uk FEATURES EDITOR: Shelley Carter shelley@brumliving.co.uk DESIGNER: Tracy Duffy

CONTRIBUTORS: David Carne, Adam Kirtland ACCOUNT MANAGER: Jane Morris jane@brumliving.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHY: David Morphew, Andrew Llewellyn. Image library: shutterstock.com 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.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: The subscription rate (post paid) is £24 for one year (12 issues). Subscriptions 01905 771110 ISSN 2051-8560

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INSIDE

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Highlights

News

Bringing you the brightest stories from across the city this month

Matt Hudson-Smith Record-holder is on his marks as Euro athletics come to Brum City of Dance Birmingham Royal Ballet takes to the streets for a dazzling tribute Food & Drink Head chef Tim Jenkins of Brockencote Hall, plus tasty summer food & drink Health It’s the talk of social media, so what’s this Tai Chi phenomenon all about?

Style How to look super-cool, even when the temperatures are super-hot

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CONTENTS

Best of the Rest

40 50 54 59 64 66 july/august 2026

Homes Design meets the utility room! It’s so much more than where to put the mop Young, Gifted and Brummie Amy Young, dreaming of following in the footsteps of Julie Walters The Pedone Collective Four of Birmingham’s most talented artists come together to go global

Business News All the latest news, views, comings and goings from the commercial community What’s On Best of the city’s top shows and gigs in our round-up of must-see events Up Close Award-winning theatre designer Rob Howell on Matilda The Musical

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NEWS

GOLDEN WONDERS More than two million visitors wordwide have seen the awardwinning Tutankhamun exhibition which brings ancient Egypt to life. And Brummies have been rushing to experience the 90-minute journey back in time for themselves since Tutankhamun: The Immersive Exhibition opened in June at the NEC. Featuring video projections, VR and metaverse experiences, a hologram of the mummification process, artefacts, and much more, the exhibition provides an educational and unforgettable exploration of Pharaoh Tutankhamun’s world. It all runs until 13 September.

NEWS

BRINGING YOU THE BRIGHTEST AND MOST COLOURFUL STORIES FROM ACROSS THE REGION EACH MONTH

FESTIVAL OF FLAVOUR Birmingham’s newest food and drink festival, the Flavour Playground, is coming to Villa Park. The event from 14 to 16 August, combines street food, discovery, entertainment and hands-on experiences. Some of the region’s best-loved restaurants are taking part, including Asha’s, Fumo, Kyoudai Ramen, Cylla, Colliery Smokehouse and Vietnamese Street Kitchen. Over 40 beers, wines, gins, rums and non-alcoholic drinks feature in the discovery market area. There’ll also be live music and DJs, special performances from leading arts organisations and interactive games.

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PICKLEBALL MANIA The largest indoor pickleball tournament in the world is heading to Brum! The 2026 Pickleball English Open will take place at the NEC Campus from 11 to 16 August, marking a major milestone as the tournament moves to the UK’s biggest exhibition venue for the first time.

Reflecting the rapid growth of the sport, the championship arena will feature 60 courts across multiple interconnected halls, with a record-breaking 3,000-plus player registrations in a wide range of age groups and skill levels.

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NEWS

SHAKESPEARE GOES LOCAL More than 100,000 people across the country will have the opportunity to experience top-quality Shakespeare productions in their local community, thanks to a £2million funding boost for the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) from Arts Council England, using money from the National Lottery. The four-year touring programme has been developed by the RSC as part of its collaboration with 16 associate regional theatres and 280 schools across 100 towns and cities, and responds directly to research showing that the number of plays touring across England has fallen 64 per cent since 2019.

MARY TAKES ROOT x

JAY’S DREAM MOMENT Celebrity hair stylist and digital creator Jay Birmingham, also known as Jay B, is celebrating a dream come true. After successfully launching his own luxury Jay B Haircare range, the line has been taken up by the city’s Selfridges store. Jay said: “From growing up in the city and being a fan of Selfridges, it is a real milestone in my career. I cannot wait to see what comes next for the brand.” His VIP clientele includes Rochelle Humes, Eva Longoria and Amelia Dimoldenberg.

Birmingham Botanical Gardens has its first artistin-residence. Dance artist Mary Savva is the recipient of the inaugural Research in Dance Award (RiDA), a pioneering programme that brings together dance, ecology and community at the Gardens. Developed with dance organisation FABRIC, with funding from Dance Hub Birmingham, the programme sees Mary use the Gardens as a living research environment, exploring the connections between people, place and the natural world. Mary will be in residence until September, engaging with visitors through events and workshops.

LIFETIME OF LOVE Wes and Maureen Jordan celebrated seven decades of marriage with some sound advice for other couples: “Respect each other’s needs and always be honest with one another.” The Edgbaston twosome enjoyed their 70th wedding anniversary at Care UK’s Metchley Manor in Church Road. They became engaged in 1955 on Maureen’s 21st birthday and married a year later at St Mark’s Church in Smethwick. Maureen said: “Neither of us can imagine being with anyone else.”

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NEWS

IT’S JAZZAMATAZZ TIME More than 40 years after being founded, Birmingham Jazz and Blues Festival is still making a noise – as England’s longest-established jazz and blues festival and one of Europe’s biggest free jazz parties. The festival, from 24 July to 2 August, features more than 150 performances alongside workshops, talks, exhibitions and masterclasses, with almost all of it free to attend. Performances take place in shopping centres, streets and squares, bars, restaurants, clubs, hotels, art galleries, markets, libraries, parks – and even on buses and trains!

RIZZO’S READY

Wine lovers will be popping corks as Rizzo’s Wine Club & Delicatessen officially opened its doors in Worcester.

Founded by former Simpsons restaurant general manager Gianluca Austin-Rizzo, the new independent venture offers a curated range of Italian wines alongside artisan deli products sourced from across Italy. After spending the last three years building a loyal following through wine education events and tastings, Gianluca is bringing his passion for authentic Italian food and wine to a permanent city-centre location.

PHEEB’S T20 VIBE

STUDENT PODCAST

Birmingham City University (BCU) has teamed up with local charity St Basils for a new podcast examining how universities can better support students who have experienced homelessness. Part of St Basils Youth Voice series, the podcast explores barriers that homeless young people face in accessing higher education and the practical steps institutions can take to break them down. Research

by Save the Student found that seven per cent of university students had experienced homelessness while studying. The podcast is available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

ESCAPE HATCH

Birmingham-based artist Phoebe Robinson – known as ‘Pheeb’ – made her own striking contribution to the Women’s T20 World Cup by creating bespoke merchandise to celebrate the tournament. Her ‘Women’s Cricket Is A Vibe’ t-shirts were gifted to all the players ahead of the tournament’s first match at Edgbaston before going on sale to supporters.

Phoebe, originally from Worcestershire, studied Illustration and visual communication at Birmingham City University.

“As a woman and Birmingham-based creative, being involved with this tournament was a very proud moment for me,” she said.

How’s your clue-cracking, problem-solving talents? There’s a chance to put them to the test as global escape room provider, Escape Hunt, opens its new Birmingham city centre venue in Cannon Street. From capturing the mystical lamp in Aladdin and The Magic Vault, uncovering ancient secrets in Curse of the Pharaoh and saving the Mad Hatter in Alice in Puzzleland, visitors are promised an exciting, adrenalinefuelled race against the clock. Outdoor experiences include the new City Hunt game, Vampire Hunters.

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NEWS

MEDAL WINNERS

Gold, silver and bronze… these are the coveted medals designed for the European Athletics Championships, competed for by more than 1,600 athletes from 48 nations at the Alexander Stadium. Crafted from anodised aluminium with a brass centre plated in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, the outer ring symbolises the amphitheatre of supporters in the stadium, while the centre represents the ultimate podium prize-winners at the event from 10-16 August. The medal’s reverse boasts a design reflecting the city’s rich culture and architecture.

SOUTHSIDE WITH TWIGGY A new showcase celebrating the creativity, culture, and communities of Birmingham’s Southside has opened at the National Trust Birmingham Back to Backs. The free, year-long exhibition – From Around Here: Creative Responses to the Culture and Community of Birmingham’s Southside – features work by students from the Department of Fashion and Jewellery at Birmingham City University inspired by the area surrounding the Back to Backs – Birmingham’s last surviving example of historic ‘back-to-back’ houses. Students collaborated with local figures, including drag artist, costume maker and LGBTQ+ icon Twiggy, pictured, to celebrate voices that shape Southside today.

SMALL SPEED AHEAD! Are these young riders the mountain bike stars of the future? All ages will be taking part in this year’s Cannondale Malverns Classic – widely recognised as the UK’s largest mountain bike festival – at Eastnor Deer Park from 20 to 23 August. The festival combines world-class racing, live entertainment, industry leading exhibitions, family activities and recreational riding opportunities – with organisers expecting daily attendances of 10,000 visitors. The competitions include the Balance Bike World Championships, pictured, for children aged from two-to-five-years-old.

MY LIFE IN BOOKS The world-famous Hay Festival of ideas and art is taking over Birmingham’s Old Rep for a special one-off night of entertainment. Hay Festival After Hours: Birmingham on Thursday 23 July, features hometown broadcaster and writer Natalie Haynes, pictured, journalist and author Sathnam Sanghera and poet and performer Vignesh Venkataramaiah, aka Vig’s Poetry. Natalie opens the event with My Life in Books, revealing the titles that have left the deepest impression on her reading life.

RUNNING HERO

Ten days, 350 miles – and £50,000. These were the impressive figures achieved by 21-year-old Samuel Attwell when he ran from the top to the bottom of Ireland in aid of Warwick children’s charity Molly Ollys. Samuel from Redditch battled unforgiving terrain and weather conditions to become what is thought to be the youngest person to complete the challenge. Samuel is an ambassador for the charity which provides support to seriously ill children and their families, both in the UK and Ireland.

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

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COVER STORY

CHAMPING AT THE BIT

AHEAD OF THE BIRMINGHAM 2026 EUROPEAN ATHLETICS CHAMPIONSHIPS, WE CAUGHT UP WITH EUROPEAN RECORD HOLDER AND PROUD BIRCHFIELD HARRIER, MATT HUDSON-SMITH, TO TALK COMPETING IN FRONT OF A HOME CROWD, GETTING CARRIED AWAY AT THE COMMONWEALTHS AND HAVING A STAND NAMED AFTER HIM Pictures: British Athletics via Getty Images

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COVER STORY

he European 400m record-holder and second-most decorated male European athlete in history, Matt Hudson-Smith is a part of a long line of successful athletes from the West Midlands, so much so that the organisers of the Championships surprised Matt by naming a stand after him at his home track and venue for the event, Alexander Stadium.

Matt says he thought he was just going to a media event to promote the Championships and became confused when he spotted his Nan. He admits he wasn’t wearing his glasses, so everything was a bit blurry! “It was a surreal,” he says. “I had no idea what was going on. I could see my family and I just couldn’t understand why. It was a special moment to share it with them. It’s an indication of all the hard work I’ve put in. To get a stand named after me is the icing on the cake of a great career and now I want to add more to it at Europeans.”

T

HOME SWEET HOME Cherry Alexander, Championship director for Birmingham 2026, said: “Matthew is a true homegrown star, and we were delighted to welcome him home by unveiling the Matthew HudsonSmith Stand.” She added: “Matthew’s international achievements are inspiring a future generation to dig deep, and this stand is a celebration of that. We hope to fill the stand with young local fans, and maybe even the next Matthew Hudson-Smith will be in the crowd watching him compete in front of a home crowd.” Matt has grown up at Alexander Stadium essentially. He says a lot of the people that worked there when he joined the club as a keen nine-year-old are still there and have watched him grow up.

Now with two Olympic medals (silver in 400m at Paris and 4x400m relay bronze), four European titles and a World Championships silver medal, Matt is the fifth-fastest person in the 400m event in history. It’s a gruelling event that Matt and other athletes describe as ‘the man killer’. Matt avoided

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the distance when he was younger but as his mate, Olympic and World 400m champion Christine Ohuruogu always says: “The event chooses you!”

And it certainly chose Matt.

TRIALS AND TRIBULATIONS He says everyone respects the 400m as other athletes know how tough it is and between the 400m athletes themselves there’s always mutual respect as they all know what goes into it. Matt says: “You’re all working your tail off. You worked hard, I worked hard. Everyone’s been through their own trials and tribulations.” He adds: “If you’re fit, lactic acid kicks in at around 300m. If you’re not fit, lactic hits at 180m and that’s a struggle.”

In terms of competing in Birmingham and reacting to a home crowd, Matt says: “I had a glimpse into it at the Commonwealth Games and I was like a deer in the headlights. I had this wave of emotion and I let it affect my performance. I’ve learnt from that. I understand how to navigate it now.” Like the rest of us Matt thought Birmingham did an incredible job hosting the Commonwealth Games, so we’re excited for the European Championships. He says foreign athletes always love UK meets and the crowds are electric. We chatted when Matt had just a handful of races left in the build up to the Europeans to ensure he peaks at the right time.

FLIRTING WITH FOOTIE It wasn’t always athletics for Matt. He was a decent football player who had trials at Wolves and Walsall and had to make a choice as a teen. He was clearly rapid on the pitch which meant he got tackled a lot as the opposition couldn’t match his pace. He says his knees couldn’t hack it so he thew himself into athletics. He also admits he used to lose concentration and he’d be watching a butterfly or similar instead of focusing on the game.

One of his athletics heroes and someone who drew him into the sport is Christine. “I remember watching Christine at the Beijing Olympics. She won

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COVER STORY

and it was so inspiring. She really sparked an interest in me. It’s funny because she’s someone I speak to all the time now.” Another hero is Usain Bolt. Matt says: “Not much needs saying about the man!”

NEXT GENERATION In terms of ambition, Matt says: “On the track, gold Olympic and World titles but I’d also like to build a legacy and help the next generation coming through. I’m not a very vocal person – I’m trying to

get better as I’d like to shout about what a talented region we are, not just in athletics. We’re here on a big stage. This region produces big. Think about football – Morgan Rogers, Jude Bellingham and Jack Grealish. We’ve got to believe in ourselves.”

We asked Matt for his football World Cup predictions and he’s ambitious. “England will make the semi-finals at least…” We’re not sure about football coming home, but athletics in Birmingham on Matt’s home turf? That’ll do for now. I

BE PART OF THE HOME CROWD The Birmingham 2026 European Athletics Championships run from 10-16 August. For more information and tickets visit: tickets.birmingham26.com

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FEATURE

CITY OF DANCE BIRMINGHAM ROYAL BALLET TAKES TO THE STREETS TO DELIVER A DAZZLING TRIBUTE TO ITS HOMETOWN, AS ITS LEGENDARY CREATOR HITS 100

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Photography by Clive Booth 14 birmingham living

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FEATURE

irmingham’s world-famous dancers have showcased their love for the city they call home in a dramatic set of images. Our City, Your Ballet features members of Birmingham Royal Ballet (BRB) captured by local photographer and Canon ambassador, Clive Booth.

The collection has been displayed across the city to highlight BRB’s close ties, together with an invitation for more people to discover and support the Company. Clive said: “It’s been a huge honour to be invited to shoot this and combine the beauty of Birmingham Royal Ballet’s elite dancers with the city of Birmingham’s stunning backdrops. It’s clear that both BRB and the city have a lot more to offer.”

The photoshoot coincided with the 100th birthday of one of ballet’s most influential directors and choreographers, Sir Peter Wright. The internationallyrenown touring ballet company was first established in Birmingham by Sir Peter in 1990, transferring to the

B

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FEATURE

city after formerly being known as Sadler’s Wells Royal Ballet. Since then, millions of ballet lovers have enjoyed performances which, together with community and educational work, have taken the name of Birmingham around the world.

RECORD-BREAKING Sir Peter continued at the helm of BRB until 1995 and remains closely linked to the company as founding director laureate and choreographer of some of the most popular works, including Sleeping Beauty, Swan Lake and his acclaimed adaptation of The Nutcracker.

The celebrations for Sir Peter’s 100th year included a unique performance by ballet superstar and BRB director Carlos Acosta. He said: “Sir Peter was instrumental in our move to Birmingham – he planted the seed for everything that followed and I am very honoured to direct the company that he created.

“In my, and many others’ opinion, his Nutcracker is the greatest Nutcracker in the world and it is a regular in our BRB repertoire. It has proved to be popular for more than 30 years and this year we broke ticket sales records with our most successful Nutcracker ever.” I

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FOOD & DRINK

TIM JENKINS HOW A PART-TIME JOB ON A GAP YEAR IN NEW ZEALAND WAS THE CATALYST FOR A CAREER IN FOOD FOR THE HEAD CHEF AT BROCKENCOTE HALL

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CHEF’S CORNER

Tell us about your cooking My style is always evolving, but the heart of it stays the same – seasonal, fresh, tasty and local. Our approach at the hotel’s Malvern Restaurant is all about refined British cooking with a real sense of place. We work with the best produce available to us, whether that is British seafood, asparagus from Harvington just up the road, vegetables from the hotel garden or carefully sourced meats from trusted suppliers.

How did you become a chef?

I always enjoyed helping my parents cook at home. On a gap year in New Zealand, I took a parttime pot wash job. The chef owner had such a passion for food that I regularly helped him prep on my days off. After retraining part-time as a chef at college in Lancaster, I worked in local pubs before moving closer to home and getting a job at Brockencote Hall.

What do you eat when at home?

Given the recent warm weather, I have been keeping things simple with food from the garden at home. That might be lettuce, onions, tomatoes and spring onions, served with homemade mustard and sourdough. I also love a good flapjack.

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

Tommy Banks in Yorkshire is someone I really admire, particularly for his ethos on farming and supporting the land around him. Locally, I would have to say Stu Deeley at Mallory Court. He was once a commis chef at Brockencote Hall Hotel, so it is fantastic to see what he has gone on to achieve.

What was your favourite food as a kid?

My mum did a wicked cheese on toast. Fish and chips was another favourite. Mum’s minestrone soup was always welcome in the winter, and dad’s spaghetti bolognese on the weekend was amazing too.

Food heaven and food hell?

Heaven would be BBQ rib of beef on the bone, slow cooked so it is pink all the way through. When

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meat is cooked with that much care, it is hard to beat. There is nothing in the world I truly dislike, but badly cooked meat would be close.

What’s the most unusual thing you’ve eaten?

Carpaccio of octopus leg. I had it in Lanzarote – and it was phenomenal.

Share a cooking tip Follow the recipe and method. Spend a little extra time to do it correctly the first time. And with simple bakes like flapjacks, use the best honey you can. It makes a real difference.

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

When I was younger, I wanted to be a marine biologist. I have always enjoyed fishing and fish keeping. If I ever left the industry, I would quite like to own a carp fishing lake. I

Brockencote Hall Hotel, Chaddesley Corbett, Worcestershire, DY10 4PY. Tel: 01562 777876 www.brockencotehall.com

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SEASON’S EATINGS

HOMEMADE TOMATO SAUCE Simple to make and super-deliciousÁ go on, what are you waiting for? ith heatwaves seeming to be the new norm, it’s important to keep things as simple as possible in the kitchen – why should that mean compromising on flavour? Say hello to this utterly delicious, super simple and versatile tomato sauce from Kasia Piąkowska, the co-owner and head chef at Tropea in Harborne. I

W METHOD

I Thinly slice three cloves of garlic.

I Keeping the juice, drain two tins of the best tinned whole plum tomatoes you can find.

I In a wide-bottomed saucepan (the wider the better), gently fry the garlic on a medium heat in three tablespoons of good olive oil. Add a tablespoon of tomato paste and fry that with the garlic until the oil starts to turn red.

I Add the drained tomatoes, mash them up with your spoon and fry them on the same medium heat. Make sure you are stirring and mashing constantly for about 5 minutes until they start to break down and much of the liquid has evaporated.

I Add half a teaspoon of salt and the juice from the drained tomatoes and reduce the whole mixture until you have a chunky tomato sauce consistency. Taste and season with salt and finish with torn basil leaves stirred through.

Tropea, 27 Lordswood Road, Harborne, B17 9RP. Tel: 0121 427 9777 tropea.uk

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FOOD & DRINK

NIBBLES and SHORTS

THE LOCAL HOSPITALITY SECTOR CONTINUES TO BE A BUSY, ACTION-PACKED SCENE. HERE’S OUR MONTHLY ROUND-UP OF THE LATEST NEWS, LAUNCHES AND HAPPENINGS

ALFRESCO AT ALFRED WORKS

A new outdoor social space combining street food, live sport and entertainment, has arrived at Digbeth’s Floodgate Street. Alfresco at Alfred Works has a purpose-built indoor sports bar at its heart designed for watching live action and socialising, featuring large screens plus space for up to 300 visitors. Street food kitchens include live-fire and smoke BBQ concept Broke N’ Bone BBQ, Nashville-style hot chicken Howlin’ Chicken, Caribbean live-fire BBQ concept Char’d By Esmie, and Vietnamese-inspired Brúm Mi.

TOWN HALL PARTNERSHIP

TASTE OF BARCELONA

Baresca Tapas is opening a new bar and restaurant B:Music, the charity that manages Birmingham Town in Mere Green, Sutton Coldfield, this month, bringing Hall and Symphony Hall, has appointed Square its Barcelona-inspired dining experience to the West Radish Catering & Events as an approved catering Midlands for the first time. The opening marks the third partner. The contemporary hospitality brand is restaurant within the Baresca Tapas brand, joining powered by the award-winning team behind Escabeche in West Bridgford and Baresca Nottingham.

Mahirs Experience. The partnership means Set in the old 4,700 sq ft Pierre Bistro unit on organisations and individuals hosting events at the Mere Green Road, the venue has 150 Grade I listed Town Hall are not only supporting a covers inside and 40 on the outdoor Birmingham charity but also helping sustain a local familyterrace. run business with a long history of charitable giving.

TOP CHEFS FOR FESTIVAL Three guest chefs are set to headline the Three Counties Food and Drink Festival on 25 and 26 July in Malvern. Rosemary Shrager, who took part in I’m a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here, will feature on the cookery theatre stage, while MasterChef champion Ping Coombes will showcase her Malaysian heritage. Bristol-born Dean Edwards, best known for his morning TV cost-cutting, family-friendly recipes, completes the line-up. The festival showcases more than 160 traders, live music, street food and family fun.

STICKS ‘N‘ SUSHI

Birmingham will get its first taste of Sticks’n’Sushi when the DanishJapanese restaurant group opens at Three Chamberlain Square this autumn, bringing its mix of sushi, grilled sticks and stylish interiors to the city. The new restaurant, which will cater for up to 250 guests, occupies a large groundfloor space with adjoining terrace, bar area and private dining. Group CEO Andreas Karlsson said: “We’re thrilled to be opening in Birmingham – the city has such an exciting and versatile food scene.”

GRASSLAND TO GRILL

Premium steakhouse group Cow & Sow is opening a Kitchen Farm which will deliver fresh, organic produce from ‘grassland to grill’ at its restaurants in Birmingham and Bristol. Mark Warburton, founder of Cow & Sow, said: “As a B-Corp certified group, people and the planet remain at the heart of our ethos. With the opening of our Kitchen Farm we now have more control over what we’re serving in our restaurants and can guarantee the freshest possible produce, setting us apart from other steakhouses.”

SUMMER PIAZZA One of Birmingham’s favourite summer drinking spots has made a welcome return for the season with the reopening of Peroni Piazza at St Martin’s Balcony. Overlooking St Martin’s Square, the open-air terrace has become one of the city’s most sought-after destinations for after-work drinks, weekend meet-ups and soaking up the summer atmosphere in the heart of Brum. The Piazza is open every day from 12pm to 9pm throughout the summer.

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COFFEE BREAK A new independent café concept has opened at Great Hampton Street in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter. Specialising in whipped cold foam drinks, FOAMÉ aims to elevate everyday coffee moments, while offering a food menu that features freshly made pocket sandos, brunch favourites and sweet treats. Founder Abu Sayed said: “We wanted to create a space that feels welcoming, where great food and drinks bring people together. Every item on our menu has been carefully developed to offer something a little different.”

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COCKTAIL OF THE MONTH

STRAWBERRY DAIQUIRI

The sun is out and life is sweet – so why not celebrate with this ice cool classic… imple to make and with strawberries at their absolute peak, this deliciously refreshing little beauty absolutely hits the spot. As always, please enjoy responsibly. I

S

INGREDIENTS:

I 50ml of quality rum I 25ml of strawberry liqueur I 25ml of lime juice I 6 strawberries I Ice cubes

METHOD: Prepare a Martini glass by rubbing the rim with a lime wedge and then with granulated sugar. Add all ingredients in a blender and then blend until smooth.

Pour, kick back and enjoy!

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RESTAURANT REVIEW

LA BELLEZZA ou’ve all been to La Bellezza by now and no doubt posted its spectacular interiors on Instagram. They’ve a new lunch menu which we didn’t need asking twice to sample. The menu is compact, the idea being you can be in and out in 60 minutes having had a marvellous meal. The limited menu might not hit the spot for some people but there’s always a la carte which is brimming with choice.

Aperitivo was our starting point and there were four to choose from. We slurped a passion fruit virgin mojito and a bellini. From the three antipasti dishes, we opted for the prosciutto de parma and the burrata. The third option was a Greek salad which felt a bit off brand.

The plate of prosciutto was enormous but was also absolutely from the top drawer. It tasted like it had just been sliced from a leg rather than stored somewhere and the flavour was incredible. A ball of creamy burrata with a punchy pesto and sun-dried tomatoes was great. Focaccia, as always was perfect – crunchy and salty on the outside and pillowy inside, it mopped up the pesto beautifully.

Service felt a bit more hurried than normal and the main courses arrived the minute we put our forks down

Paradise, 2 Chamberlain Square, Birmingham, B3 3AX. bigmammagroup.com

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which might be due to the 60-minute claim. We’d rather go slow but accept other people might want to be speedy. The Mammargarita di buffalo – margarita pizza to you and me – arrived looking mighty fine. The crust was puffy and blistered, just the way we like it, the tomato sauce was tangy and the mozzarella and parmesan made for a heady combo, the salty parmesan lifting it beyond ordinary. Pasta alla Norma was the star of the show. A seriously flavour-packed tomato sauce elevated by chunks of fried aubergine and zingy lemon ricotta di bufala was dreamy.

At this point we’d have happily stopped eating and if we hadn’t been sampling the menu we’d have enjoyed an espresso and gone on our merry way, but you know, when in Rome. We shared a very nice tiramisu and a decadent chocolate mousse.

Personally, we’d rather not eat three courses at lunch and obviously the restaurant isn’t forcing you to.

One main is £16, one antipasti plus a main £19 and three courses, £23. If we were in a hurry we’d pop in for a bowl of pasta or a delicious-looking Caesar salad and a glass of something cold which would make for an ideal and reasonably priced lunch. I

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FOOD & DRINK

HOW WINEMAKERS ARE FACING

GLOBAL WARMING AS TEMPERATURES RISE, MORE VINEYARDS ARE

MOVING TO SUSTAINABLE WINEMAKING. DAVID CARNE REPORTS FROM THE FRONTLINE OF THE WORLD’S FIRST FULLY ORGANIC WINE REGION s global warming becomes an increasingly important issue, vineyards around the world are looking at how they can become more sustainable. While the second half of the twentieth century saw the rise of mass-produced, highyield vineyards, often maintained through practices that were more focused on production than sustainable agriculture, the tide is now turning.

There is increasing recognition that sustainable agriculture is not only better for the environment, but that maintaining healthy soils, supporting ecosystems and reducing chemical inputs can also improve wine quality.

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LEADING THE WAY Spain is the European leader in sustainable winemaking, at least by area of certified organic vineyards. It is estimated that around 121,000 hectares of Spanish vineyards are now organically certified. Much of this innovation has been led by one region in particular – the Penedès in Catalonia.

From the 2025 harvest, the Penedès DO became the world’s first fully organic wine appellation, meaning all vineyards within the denomination are certified organic. In addition, between 2021 and 2025, the Cava Regulatory Board introduced requirements meaning that all wines in the Cava de Guarda Superior category are now produced from organically certified vineyards. This has helped drive a significant increase in organic Cava production, 95 per cent of which was already produced in the Penedès.

In February, I was fortunate enough to be invited by the Regulatory Board to visit the region and see these practices firsthand. Wineries were using sheep for natural fertilisation and cover-crop management, maintaining bee populations to support biodiversity, collecting and treating rainwater for irrigation and production use, implementing respectful pruning techniques,

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FOOD & DRINK

investing in photovoltaic panels, developing lighterweight bottles and using cover crops such as grasses, legumes and wild plants between vine rows.

Many producers are also increasingly making dry and Brut Nature styles, reducing dosage levels and intervention in the final wine. Producers of the highest-quality wines are doing so without synthetic chemical sprays in the vineyard. The resulting wines rivalled some of the best Champagnes.

A QUICK GUIDE

DAVID’S RECOMMENDATIONS (ALL SUSTAINABLY PRODUCED) Something sparkling: Vins el Cep Claror Paratge Can Prats – £65.50, Amathus One of the finest organic Cavas on the market. Baked apple, brioche, plum, toasted nuts and floral notes. Complex and delicious.

Something Fresh and Fruity: Tahbilk Viognier Nagambie Lakes 2025 – £13.49, Strictly Wine Carbon neutral vineyard. Smooth, white fleshy fruits, melon and citrus meets ginger and florals for complex finish.

But how do you know what practices are being used to make your sustainable wine? The world of sustainable wine is full of terms that sound similar but mean slightly different things. Here is a quick guide:

Something Big and Bold:

Sustainable wine is made from grapes grown using practices designed to reduce environmental impact while maintaining vineyard health. This often includes targeted spraying, water management, biodiversity initiatives and reducing energy use.

Something Classic:

Organic wine is made from grapes grown without synthetic herbicides, pesticides, fungicides or fertilisers.

Sulphite additions are often more tightly controlled than in conventional winemaking. Certified organic wines are verified by an approved certification body, and vineyards generally require around three years without prohibited chemical inputs before certification.

Biodynamic wine combines organic farming with a holistic philosophy that treats the vineyard as a living ecosystem. It includes biodiversity, composting, specific preparations and, in some cases, lunar calendars. Biodynamic wines are commonly certified by organisations such as Demeter or Biodyvin.

Regenerative viticulture focuses on restoring ecosystems, improving soil health, increasing biodiversity and carbon capture, while improving resilience and reducing environmental impact.

Natural or minimal intervention wine has no universally accepted definition but generally implies organically or biodynamically grown grapes with

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Domaine Vigler L'Intemporel Côtes du Vivarais 2018 – £18.99, Barnstead Vinters Transitioning to fully organic. Dark blackcurrant fruit, pepper and warm spices with violet notes. Smooth, woody and complex.

Babich Sauvignon Blanc – £13.75, Tesco Certified sustainable. Passionfruit, stone fruits, grapefruit and some tropical notes, with a note of green bell pepper and minerality.

Something English: Denbies Cubitt Blanc de Noirs 2016 – £34.95, Denbies.co.uk Citrus zest, apricot and red apple with nutty, biscuity complexity from extended bottle ageing. A champagne beater!

Something Different: Pardas Sus Scrofa – £14.04, Decantalo A wine from the Penedès DO made from the virtually unheard of Sumoll variety. A medium bodied, fruity wine (red cherry, plum), with lavender and herbaceous, smoke and mineral notes.

minimal intervention during winemaking and lower levels of additives. It used to be the case that minimal intervention wines were often considered a little ‘funky’, and sometimes they still are. Increasingly, however, wines produced using sustainable techniques are becoming more refined, expressive and high quality.

So next time you reach for a glass, perhaps you can also do your bit for the environment. And whatever you drink, please drink responsibly. I David Carne is a Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) qualified wine expert, wine educator, alumini of Birmingham Wine School and author of the alottowineabout.com website where you can find more articles on wine. Find out more about fun, informal wine tasting events and WSET courses online, and in Birmingham and Warwick from independent wine education company Birmingham Wine School at www.birminghamwineschool.com

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HEALTH

TAI CHI WALKING

EVEN IF YOU’RE NOT A TEENAGE SOCIAL MEDIA OBSESSIVE, IT’S IMPOSSIBLE TO ESCAPE THE TSUNAMI OF TOPLESS FITTIES EXTOLLING THE VIRTUES OF TAI CHI WALKING. SO, WHAT’S WITH THIS TRENDING PHENOMENON?

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ooking after your muscles as well as heart is important to stay fit and healthy. Adults are advised to do muscle-strengthening exercises twice a week, as well as aerobic exercise, to help them stay active for longer. Hard core visits to the gym don’t appeal to everyone and with an ageing population practices such as Tai Chi are becoming increasingly popular.

The ancient art of Tai Chi combines deep breathing and relaxation with gentle movements, helping to promote and strengthen muscle health and fitness. Although Tai Chi is slow and gentle and doesn’t leave you breathless, it addresses the key components of fitness – muscle strength, flexibility, balance and, to a lesser degree, aerobic conditioning.

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KEY BENEFITS I Increased muscle strength – Tai Chi can improve both lower-body and upper-body strength.

When practised regularly, Tai Chi can be comparable to resistance training and brisk walking. Although you aren’t working with weights or resistance bands, the exercises strengthen both the lower and upper extremities and also the core muscles of the back and abdomen.

I Improved flexibility – Tai Chi can boost upper and lower-body flexibility as well as strength.

I Better balance – Tai Chi improves balance as it improves the ability to sense the position of your body in space, something which naturally declines with age. Improved balance may also help reduce the number of falls and all the associated complications.

I Aerobic conditioning – Depending on the speed and size of the movements, Tai Chi can provide some aerobic benefits.

All of these potentially life-changing benefits are possible from the regular practice of Tai Chi walking, the foundational stepping technique that forms the basis of all Tai Chi movements

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WALK THE WALK Firstly, if you’re looking for a life-changing, fourweek weight loss programme that delivers a six-pack, then the scientific evidence is pretty thin and you’re probably going to be disappointed. However, if you are looking to improve your balance and core strength while reducing stress levels without worrying about the impact of exercise on your joints, then walk this way! What’s more, it will help you burn some calories, too.

In the simplest terms, Tai Chi walking is a stepping technique that focuses on controlled weight transfer through slow, deliberate movement. There’s an abundance of advice on different techniques out there but here’s a basic guide for beginners that floats our boat: LEARN THE BASICS I Starting in a standing position with your feet shoulder-width apart, one foot slightly ahead of the other, knees slightly bent with arms relaxed and hands resting in the small of your back.

I Slowly shift you weight backwards onto the rear foot then then turn your front foot slightly outwards and bring your rear foot slowly forwards, placing the heel gently on the ground before gradually rolling your weight forward towards the toe until the entire foot is flat. Focus on a controlled, continuous flow.

I Shift the weight backwards on to the rear foot again and repeat the process.

Once you’re comfortable with the basics steps you can start integrating arm movements and focusing on the breathing side of things which is such an important part of Tai Chi. Aim for 10 minutes a day to start with and build at your own pace. However, it won’t take long before you notice an improvement in your core strength, balance and hopefully your mental health, too. I

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I’VE ARRIVED

Clothing and accessories from River Island

SUMMER TIME…

AND THE LIVING IS NOT SO EASY!

WE’RE WRITING THIS DURING THE MOTHER OF ALL HEATWAVES WHEN CONTEMPLATING WHAT TO WEAR OTHER THAN A PAIR OF PANTS IS A CHALLENGE

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STYLE CRIMSON CRACKER

Tory Burch linen and silk blend maxi dress £765, Harvey Nichols

DREAM DUO

Borgo de Nor Bizzy floral print ramie shorts £345 and Henri top £425, Harvey Nichols

FLOWER POWER

CUTE COLLAB

Wild flower dress £299, Barbour X Farm Rio

Petal dress £399, Barbour X Farm Rio

ssuming we’ve settled at a sensible temperature by the time you read this, we’re highlighting the joy of summer dressing… normal summer dressing! First up, our two nonnegotiables are a decent sized basket bag and a pair of chic sunglasses. Even if you’re hot and bothered, a pair of sunnies will add instant style points and ensure you look put together while nothing says summer like a bit of raffia arm candy. A Chloe basket bag and a pair of Barbour aviators (both pictured) will do very nicely.

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MATCHY MATCHY Next, the co-ord is having a moment and in

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cool linen, even better. Loose fitting linen shorts with a drawstring waist and matching oversized shirt is the coolest and most carefree way to wear a co-ord in our book. Team with a pair of classic flat sandals and you’ve achieved the peak of effortless summer dressing. Check out the striped version from Matalan (pictured). There are many brilliant trouser versions too if you need something a bit smarter, like the pretty blue and white set from FatFace (pictured) and if you’re feeling bold, head to River Island for some stunning prints in technicolour (pictured). For high end co-ords, you can’t go wrong at Borgo de Nor – the floral set pictured is a great example.

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STYLE

SUPER SEPARATES If you’re more of a mix and match kind of girl, a pair of loose-fitting linens or a skirt teamed with a statement top is your friend.

Check out the gold embellished vest from River Island for a touch of glam (pictured) or try Oliver Bonas for some excellent playful summer blouses where cute prints and statement collars are standard. See pictured.

FROCK ON Dresses are floaty and cool, literally. Scratch your animal print itch at Scamp & Dude (pictured) or check out the Tory Burch linen and silk blend maxi if you’re in the market for a showstopper (pictured). A playful and unexpected collaboration between Barbour and Farm Rio has thrown up some stunning pieces including a collection of dreamy summer dresses (pictured). They’re timeless and versatile. Pair with flat sandals or sneakers by day and heels for a more polished look.

May we recommend stepping away from the computer and shopping in person. Apart from anything else, the air-con is heaven… I

STRIKE A POSE

Shoes and accessories from Dune

STING LIKE A BEE

Butterfly frame acetate sunglasses £365, Selfridges

ACE AVIATORS

Tom aviator sunglasses £100, Barbour

BAG FOR LIFE

Woody medium paper basket bag £650, Chloe

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STYLE WEAR THE SHORTS

Co-ord from Matalan

JUMP TO IT

Judi jumpsuit £99, FatFace

INVESTMENT PIECE

RIGHT STRIPES

Chevron raffia drawstring pouch £550, Selfridges

Blue striped plate print shirt £55, Oliver Bonas

MINIMUM FUSS

Gingham collar blouse £58, Oliver Bonas

COOL CO ORD

Hallie top £59 and Jolene trousers £75, FatFace

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ARM CANDY

Encourage bag £99, Dune

WIDE LEG

Striped cropped wide leg jeans £70, Oliver Bonas

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STYLE BEST VEST

Clothing and accessories from River island

RELAXED VIBE

Madison tipped polo £54 and embroidered trousers £24, FatFace

CHIC SEPARATES

Clothing from F&F

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STYLE IN THE WILD

Wild Flower tee £79.59, Barbour X Farm Rio

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BEAUTY

SUMMER UPDATE 1 MAKE-UP IS TRICKY DURING THE SUMMER

MONTHS, SLIDING RIGHT OFF AS SOON AS WE

STEP AWAY FROM THE AIR-CON. IT FEELS A BIT POINTLESS, BUT WE STILL WANT TO FEEL GOOD. WE’VE PULLED TOGETHER A HANDFUL OF PRODUCTS THAT WILL TAKE YOU THROUGH THE SUMMER LOOKING PUT-TOGETHER RATHER

2

THAN FRAZZLED.

1. XL MATT CLAW CLIP, £6, ACCESSORIZE Surely a long-haired girl’s best friend in the summer, the humble claw clip is a must. However, some are hopeless at holding thick hair effectively and just slide out. This extra large matt version is perfect. It’s sizable so it holds all your hair however long it might be and because it’s matt rather than shiny, it stays put.

2. GARNIER VITAMIN C DAILY UV BRIGHTENING FLUID GLOW SPF 50+, £11.19, LOOK FANTASTIC This is super light and soaks in brilliantly, giving you high sun protection and a subtle glow. If you buy one product for summer, make it this. It’s cheap as chips and packs a punch. We’ve been applying it after our normal moisturiser every morning and it’s often the only ‘make-up’ we’ve been wearing during the heatwave aside from a slick of mascara and a nourishing lip gloss.

3. CAUDALIE SELF TAN SUN DROPS, £19, SPACE NK A few drops in your moisturiser every other day leaves you looking a little bit bronzed without baking in the sun. Use as much or as little as you like – we find three drops is ample, but if you prefer a darker, just back from Morocco vibe, add more.

There’s no streaking at all and they minimise the need for make-up.

3

4. GATINEAU MIRACLE EYE CONTOUR CREAM £36, SEPHORA On the days when you want to feel a bit more done, give this lovely under eye concealer a whirl. One shade fits all as it adjusts to your skin tone, plus it’s easily absorbed and doesn’t sit in any creases. Team this with the Garnier Glow above, your fave mascara, and you’re good to go.

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ADVERTORIAL

HIGH QUALITY CARE IN EDGBASTON At Edgbaston Manor and Metchley Manor in Edgbaston, our highly trained teams are experts in

providing high quality care from residential, dementia care, to short term care. Whilst Edgbaston Manor also provides Nursing care. Our beautiful homes offer luxurious facilities, including a coffee shop, hair salon, lounge areas and outdoor spaces including beautiful terraces with a passionate wellbeing team that means your loved one’s day will never be the same.

A lifestyle tailored to you Our teams are passionate about supporting you to enjoy a fulfilling life. We’ll learn all about your interests and preferences so we can create a fully personalised lifestyle plan that you’ll enjoy; whether it’s gardening, quiz evenings or playing chess.

appears to be based on good values and principles^ and 93% were happy with the hygiene, grooming and personal presentation of their relative.

Whilst at Metchley Manor 94% of families where happy that the running of the home appears to be based on good values and principles, and 89% of families were happy with the mealtime experience.

LUXURY LIVING Our beautiful homes offer luxurious facilities, including a coffee shop, hair salon, lounge areas and outdoor spaces including beautiful terraces.

Our chef-led kitchen teams with award-winning chefs are passionate about providing high-quality food and there’s always a choice of nutritious and delicious dishes at every meal.

TRUST US TO CARE Edgbaston Manor and Metchley Manor in Edgbaston are part of Care UK, the country’s most awarded large care provider. We’ve been delivering high-quality, person-centred care for over 40 years. I To find out more about Edgbaston Manor and Metchley

HEAR WHAT RELATIVES HAVE TO SAY We recognize the importance of friends and family staying involved in their loved one’s care and lifestyle plan and our regular relative meetings are popular.

In our recent relative survey, 94% of families at Edgbaston Manor were impressed that the home

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Manor, call 0330 029 5109 Edgbaston Manor, Speedwell Road, Edgbaston West Midlands B5 7PR Metchley Manor,5 Church Road, Edgbaston - Birmingham West Midlands B15 3SH Careuk.com/edgbaston

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STYLE FOR MEN

USE YOUR

HEAD

YOU MIGHT NOT THINK YOU’RE A HAT PERSON, BUT WITH RECORD-BREAKING TEMPERATURES BECOMING THE NORM, WE’RE ALL HAT PEOPLE NOW

SUN SAFE Cap and shorts from Primark

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STYLE FOR MEN

hile self-preservation might be driving your hat purchase, you might as well style it out and look like you mean it. The right hat for you and the occasion are crucial to looking cool.

The baseball cap is an obvious choice but bear in mind not all baseball caps are equal. Shapes vary hugely from an unstructured ‘dad’ cap to the more urban looking five panel version popular in skate culture.

The only way to find the one is to try a few different shapes. Once you’ve nailed that, think about fabric and texture. If the aim is to stay literally cool, make breathable fabric the priority. If you’re not up for buying multiple colourways for different outfits, stick with something neutral that you can reach for on a hot day knowing it will go with whatever you’re wearing.

The corduroy version from Yves Saint Laurent (pictured) is perfect.

If a cap is not your vibe, but you’re looking for something equally casual try a bucket hat. The indie throwback is a great option and thanks to the 360degree brim protects your neck from the sun as well as your face. Primark has a Chemical Brothers version for just £8 (pictured) while at the other end of the price spectrum head to Prada. Slap bang in the sweet spot in the middle is a brilliant bucket hat from Jacquemus (pictured).

W

PANAMA PIZAZZ For something with a bit more pizazz, look at the Panama hat. A classic shape and a little bit suave, it’ll take a pair of shorts and a shirt from ordinary to chic in seconds. Smarter than an everyday cap or bucket, a Panama hat will serve you well for lots of occasions whether you’re watching tennis or attending a summer wedding.

The width of the brim will affect which hat suits you. As you’d expect, a large brim suits a bigger face and a narrow brim suits a small face. There’s not much variation on the classic Fedora Panama aside from a trilby version which is a tighter shape with less of a brim (pictured) and looks somehow more youthful than the old classic. Again, try on a variety and see which works for you.

We’ve pulled together a selection of our favourites to get you started.

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EFFORTLESS STYLE Hat and clothing from M&S

TRUE BLUE Bayfield cord cap £29.95, Barbour PREPPY PASTEL Logo twill cap £60, Polo Ralph Lauren

STREET STYLE 59Fifty woven baseball cap £155, A Birthing Ape

CORD KUDOS Logo embroidered corduroy cap £385, Yves Saint Laurent

NOSTALGIA TRIP Striped cotton bucket hat £460, Moncler

BARGAIN BUCKET Chemical Brothers grey hat £8, Primark TOP TRILBY Down brim Trilby Panama hat £135-165 depending on the size, Panama Hat Company COOL COTTON Prada Old cotton Pique bucket hat £540, Selfridges

CLASSIC CUT Fedora Panama hat £94.95, Borge and Scott

BUCKET LIST Jacquemus La Bob Gadjo cotton bucket hat £145, Selfridges

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WORK HORSE

THE KITCHEN MAY BE THE HEART OF THE HOME, BUT THE UTILITY ROOM IS THE ENGINE THAT KEEPS THINGS TICKING ALONG IN AN ORDERLY FASHION. DULL? THINK AGAIN.

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COUNTRY HOUSE VIBES Dysart boot room in sage and chalk white from £9,500, National Trust

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HOMES

CLEAN LINES Utility rooms from Classic Interiors starting from £5,000, www.classicinteriors.co.uk

tility rooms, once the domain of the middle classes have gone mainstream. Not merely somewhere to house the washing machine and mop bucket anymore, they’re now all-designery.

A glimpse into the behind the scenes homes of Hollywood A-listers has had us losing our minds over rows of cleaning products decanted stylishly into Kilner jars – labelled of course – luxury cabinetry, flooring to die for and lighting schemes that somehow seem wasted illuminating your laundry, but here we are! Behind the aesthetics of the utility room is its immense power to make life a little sweeter. We’re not exaggerating.

U

LIFE CHANGING If you find yourself falling over shoes, sports kit, the clothes airer and other household detritus, a wellplanned utility space and/or boot room can be transformative. It allows you to tuck away the dull, but crucial bits of your home – think a stacked

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washing machine/drier cupboard, storage for your vacuum, mop bucket, bulky kitchen appliances, cleaning products, essentially anything that you don’t want on display. Lots of effective storage is key to achieving this. Big built-in cupboards and deep drawers are ideal.

If your budget stretches to a designer, we highly recommend. They’ll make the most of even the tightest of spaces. Plan carefully. What do you need to incorporate? Unless you’re starting from scratch your layout might be dictated by the existing plumbing. Start there. What are your options for washing machine and sink? Can you afford to go for underfloor heating enabling you to ditch the radiator and gain more storage space? A heated wall mounted towel rail is ideal for drying soggy coats quickly.

Measure bulky items so you can work out drawer to cupboard ratio and how deep your drawers and shelving need to be. Then move onto aesthetics – materials, colours, flooring and accessories.

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HOMES

SUBSTANCE OVER STYLE A giant Belfast sink is always a winner – it’ll ensure cleaning muddy boots and pets is immeasurably easier. If you’ve a large dog, consider a small shower space – it sounds extravagant, but it’ll make life a lot easier and less messy. If you’ve a boot room as well as a utility room, well, happy days. If not, think about dedicating part of the utility space to a bench on which to take off muddy boots that will double as storage.

If you’ve the inclination and budget, match your utility room to your kitchen for a seamless finish.

However, if there’s a door on your utility room and your budget’s small, scrimp on the finish. It’s not on show and its purpose is overwhelmingly functional, so if you need to compromise, spend on the practical rather than frivolous. If you get it right this could seriously improve the quality of your life.

If you haven’t got space for an actual dedicated utility room, consider the space you have. Is there a nook or hallway that could become a storage hotspot? With some imagination and the right solutions, you could create order where there’s currently chaos – think additional hooks, baskets, a bench with storage, a sideboard or built-in cupboards/shelving. You have options even in the smallest of spaces. I

SPACE SAVER Products from Dunelm

PRACTICALLY PERFECT Utility room by Lisa Melvin, www.lisamelvindesign.co.uk

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HOMES

ON THE BENCH Products from Cuckooland

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HOMES

SMALL AND MIGHTY Utility room by Lisa Melvin, www.lisamelvindesign.co.uk

MINIMUM FUSS Appliances and products from John Lewis

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HOMES

WHITE OUT Utility room by Neptune

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HOMES

GO BIG Clearwater vintage Belfast sink £279, John Lewis

CHIC CERAMIC Large Melbury storage jar £45, Neptune Edgbaston

GET ORGANISED Cleaning tool storage rail £18, Joseph Joseph

FINISHING TOUCHES

COLOUR CODING Hay laundry basket £45, Nest OLD SCHOOL Kilner 3-litre round jar £11.50, Dunelm

PRACTICAL AND STYLISH, CHECK OUT SOME OF THESE VALUABLE ACCESSORIES THAT’LL HELP KEEP YOUR UTILITY SPACE SHIP-SHAPE

NEVER ENOUGH Wicker basket £15, HomeSense

ULTIMATE LAUNDRY BIN Tota Trio launder bin £100, Joseph Joseph

SPACE SAVER Wall mounted airer £65, John Lewis

GOOD PEG Kelston five peg rail £75, Garden Trading

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GARDENING

From the Potting Bench with Adam

IT’S HIGH SUMMER, AND THE GARDEN IS BUZZING WITH COLOUR AND ACTIVITY. ADAM KIRTLAND LOOKS AT HOW TO KEEP THE BLOOMS, BIRDS AND BEES HAPPY

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GARDENING

igh summer in the garden is a wonderfully full and slightly unruly affair. Borders spill over with colour, vegetables seem to double in size overnight and there is a constant, gentle hum of life from bees, birds and the occasional overenthusiastic lawnmower.

It is a time of abundance, but also one where the to-do list quietly keeps pace with the growing season, nudging you back outside just when you thought you might sit down for a moment. Summer gardening is about balance, keeping things ticking along while making the most of long, warm days and everything your garden is offering in return. Here are five essential summer jobs to carry you comfortably through July and August.

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Water Well and Wisely Consistent watering becomes essential during the height of summer, especially for containers, hanging baskets and newly planted areas. Aim to water deeply and thoroughly, allowing moisture to reach the roots rather than just dampening the surface. Early morning or later in the evening tends to work best, giving plants time to absorb what they need without it disappearing too quickly in the heat. A little thought here saves a lot of drooping disappointment later.

Feed to Keep the Momentum With so much growth and flowering happening, plants need regular feeding to keep performing at their best. Continue feeding flowering plants and fruiting crops such as tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers with a suitable liquid feed, helping them maintain energy for blooms and harvests. It is one of those small, regular tasks that makes a noticeable difference, even if it does feel like you are running a very polite restaurant for plants.

Harvest Little and Often This is the season of rewards, and regular harvesting keeps everything productive. Pick

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courgettes while they are still tender, gather beans before they become overly enthusiastic in size and keep on top of herbs and salads so they do not bolt.

The more you harvest, the more many plants will produce, creating a satisfying rhythm of giving and receiving that defines summer gardening.

Deadhead and Tidy as You Go Keeping on top of deadheading encourages plants to continue flowering and helps borders stay looking fresh rather than slightly tired. Spend a few quiet minutes here and there snipping away spent blooms, trimming back anything that has flopped and gently guiding plants back into place. It is less about perfection and more about maintaining that relaxed but cared for summer look.

Take Time to Actually Enjoy It Perhaps the most important job of all during July and August is to step back and enjoy what you have created. Whether it is an early morning wander with a cup of tea, an evening sit among the borders or a casual harvest for dinner, make time to notice the details. The colour, the scent, the gentle movement of everything growing around you. These are the moments that make all the watering, weeding and quiet persistence worthwhile.

July and August are generous, lively and occasionally a little overwhelming, but they are also the heart of the gardening year. By keeping up with the essentials and allowing yourself time to enjoy the results, you strike that perfect balance between effort and reward. After all, summer is not just something to manage in the garden, it is something to savour. I You can follow Adam on Instagram @viewfromthepottingbench or listen to his podcast Tales From the Potting Bench for more gardening inspiration. You can also read Adam’s blog at viewfromthepottingbench.com

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YOUNG, GIFTED & BRUMMIE

AMY YOUNG

WE CHATTED TO THE ACTOR AND NYT REP COMPANY ALUMNI WHO’S LOOKING TO FOLLOW IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF HER HEROES, LIKE LOCAL FAVOURITE JULIE WALTERS AND PEAKY BLINDERS HELEN McCRORY he National Youth Theatre has been a valuable route into acting for decades.

Patron Daniel Craig says he ‘literally owes his career to the NYT’ but it’s only fairly recently the organisation has stepped outside its London bubble launching regional hubs. Birmingham’s version, the NYT REP Company launched in 2012 and has racked up a sparkling list of alumni already. BAFTA nominee and Gangs of London star Sope Dirisu, Scottish BAFTA winner and The Ridge star Lauren Lyle, and Ian Charleson Award-winner Francesca Amewudah-Rivers all honed their skills there.

Places are hard to come by, the audition process is rigorous and competition is tough. Every auditionee has to be a NYT member which involves completing a course called Epic Stages. Amy took the two-week course to become a member which allowed her to audition for the organisation’s REP Company. She was offered a place in her second year of auditioning which in hindsight she’s grateful for. She says: “There are four rounds of auditions, 2,000 members auditioning and I learned so much just from that process.” There are just 16 places on offer so it’s a huge achievement.

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WORKING CLASS Amy was 18 years-old when she joined in September 2025 and she graduated this June. The nine-month programme is fully funded which is crucial. Amy says: “Drama school isn’t accessible for everyone. I’m from a working class background and I wouldn’t have been able to do this if it wasn’t funded.” In the interest of finding the best and brightest talent it makes total sense to free people from any financial hurdles. Ten weeks of the ninemonth programme were spent at the NYT building in

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London honing in on industry training, getting to know the right people and how to approach them ensuring alumni are focused and knowledgeable.

The NYT REP season of which Amy was part of, began with a world premiere adaptation of Dracula (pictured) written by Tatty Hennessy, directed by UK Theatre Award best director nominee Atri Banerjee followed by Jack Thorne’s adaptation of the hit vampire novel Let the Right One In. Amy says it was different to anything she’d done before and a brilliant experience.

Theatre is what Amy has done most of so far and she says: “It’s so exciting. It’s live, you’re telling a story and

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YOUNG, GIFTED & BRUMMIE

WORLD PREMIERE: Amy, front right, with NYT Rep Company members performing Dracula. Pictured by Manuel Harlan

feeling an immediate reaction. I’ve also done a couple of film projects.” Nerves are something Amy accepts and deals with. She says: “I don’t think nerves ever go away, but you learn to put them into your performance.

It’s why you train and warm up your body.”

CRESCENT THEATRE Amy rates the arts offering in the West Midlands.

She’s been a long time volunteer at the Crescent Theatre which she describes as amazing, plus she was part of the Belgrade Ensemble at the Belgrade Theatre. It’s a free year-long creative programme for early-career performers aged 18 to 25 from the local

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area. It’s not a training course more an investment in creative development and Amy found it to be a great confidence boost.

Finding drama a bit later than some, Amy arrived at college having never found her path academically and also having never done any acting. She says: “A drama teacher encouraged me to come to an audition and he saw something in me.” Amy’s heroes are Victoria Wood, Julia Walters and Helen McCrory among others but her dream gig would be Shakespeare. She says: “I’d love to do some Shakespeare particularly with Birmingham being so close to Stratford.” I

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GROWING PLACES

TOP TENNIS ILLUSTRATING SUCCESS Two Birmingham City University illustration students are set to see their work published for a global audience.

Charlie Vickerstaff and Maryam Kalem have been selected to produce artwork for two of Booktime’s upcoming titles, a milestone many young creatives spend years working towards. Booktime is an initiative of the Hindawi Foundation charity, that provides free digital access to a vast library of illustrated, multilingual books through its app and desktop platforms. Charlie, 19, will illustrate a tale inspired by Greek mythology, while Maryam, also 19, will work on a book about a messy seven-year-old boy.

Bromsgrove School has been selected as part of the LTA 10U Performance Network for 2026-2028, one of only three venues in the Midlands and one of only two schools nationally. The new network has been created to identify and support programmes that are best placed to develop the next generation of young players within the LTA Player Pathway. The recognition reflects the hard work and commitment of the coaching team, players and families, as well as Bromsgrove's long-term belief in providing high-quality coaching and development opportunities from an early age.

SCHOOL REPORT

INSPIRATIONAL AMELIA Nine-year-old Amelia Walsh from Pegasus Primary School has been awarded the Young Active Citizen Award for under-11s, which celebrates young people across the West Midlands who have made an exceptional positive impact on their communities.

Amelia won the award for choosing to donate 30 Christmas presents to a local children’s home. Lord-Lieutenant Derrick Anderson, who presented the award, hailed Amelia for “demonstrating an exceptional sense of empathy and social responsibility”. He added: “She is a shining example of how young people can make a difference through thoughtful and selfless actions.”

SUMMIT RISES TO THE TOP Summit Learning Trust has celebrated winning two national honours at the Network for Education Excellence (nEdEx) School & Trust Leadership Awards.

It was named Small Trust of the Year and also received the Outstanding Community Impact Award, which recognised the success of Summit Base Camp, the Trust’s flagship community support programme which has delivered more than 400,000 free breakfasts, 3,000 food parcels, 32,000 warm hub sessions, 4,000 school uniforms and thousands of health, wellbeing and educational support packages to children and families.

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GROWING PLACES

NEW BOARDING SCHOOL FOR MUSICIANS An independent music-led institute in Birmingham has launched a new boarding house for 11 to 16-yearolds. With the opening of the Elmdon Lodge facility, Kimichi School becomes the only mainstream independent boarding school in the city, alongside the specialist Elmhurst Ballet School. Sally Alexander MBE, Kimichi’s executive headteacher, said: “We offer a small, music-led school where every child is known, at a price ordinary working families can realistically consider. This is boarding with heart.”

RECIPE FOR HEALTHY FUTURE More than 2,000 primary school children swapped pencils for utensils in the annual Health for Life Cookathon. The initiative was led by David Taylor, chef director of Solihull-based Michelin-starred restaurant Grace and Savour and sister-site, Kynd. Organised by Services for Education as part of Birmingham’s Health for Life initiative, the Cookathon saw over 40 primary schools from across the region take part. Students aged six to 11 from Barford Primary School, Ladywood were selected for an in-person cooking lesson, with a recipe designed by David for the event.

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MARVELLOUS MIKEY’S MBE Mikey Akers, a member of staff at Balsall Common Primary School Academy and founder of Mikey’s Wish Foundation, has been awarded an MBE in recognition of his work over the last 10 years in raising awareness of childhood apraxia of speech (verbal dyspraxia). Mikey, who works as SEND teaching assistant, was diagnosed with verbal dyspraxia – a neurological condition affecting movement, coordination and organisational skills – when he was 2½ years old. The foundation offers speech and language therapy, specialist training for therapists and information resources, while also raising public awareness.

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FEATURE

COLLECTIVE STARS FOUR OF BIRMINGHAM’S MOST TALENTED ARTISTS HAVE COME TOGETHER TO SHOWCASE THEIR VERY DIFFERENT STYLES TO A GLOBAL AUDIENCE.

he Pedone Collective is headed by Charles Pedone, who we featured previously through his unique and original art displayed at the Grand Hotel. Together with three other artists, Charles is part of a residency under the theme of Timeless Visions which sees each artist transform a suite into a fully immersive experience as part of the historic hotel’s celebrations to mark the fifth anniversary since its major renovation.

Now Charles, William Storey, Imogen Morris and Mengyao Qin – each with strong links to Birmingham – are extending their partnership as they look to carry their art forward and achieve wider exposure through the Collective, which Charles is curating.

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EXCEPTIONAL Charles said: “This is a Collective of exceptional Birmingham talent. Contemporary artists whose work embodies depth, refinement and emotional resonance. The mission is to bring together, and continue to grow further, artists who bring a different level to their art.

“Through building my own contacts and

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relationships, particularly through my commercial background, I see opportunities for the artists which they don’t necessarily see, which aren’t obvious.

Opportunities such as the residency at the Grand Hotel, but elsewhere across the country and beyond in various ways.

“The long-term ambition of the Collective is to discover exceptional UK-based talent and expose them to a truly international audience, to build a collective internationally. This is just the beginning.

Success will attract new opportunities.”

AMBITIONS One of the strengths of the Collective is artists using very different mediums and techniques coming together as a group rather than just being individual voices. “We are very supportive of each other and cheer each other on,” Charles explains.

He says the big ambition is to take artists’ work to the Middle East where he has strong relationships, particularly in Abu Dhabi. “I can see huge opportunities there once the current situation in the region calms down – and as I’m half Italian I would love to see a presence for our art in Italy too.” I

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FEATURE

CHARLES PEDONE A contemporary abstract artist who says his artistic vision has been shaped by his travels to more than 85 countries. His commissions include distinguished interior and architectural projects, including at the Grand Hotel. The new Charles Pedone Collective showcases original works ‘defined by rarity and elegance across exclusive destinations’.

MENGYAO QIN A former student of Birmingham School of Art her recent work was inspired by performances at Birmingham Royal Ballet, including the Don Quixote production. She has showcased in exhibitions in Birmingham and London and her passion for dance will see her create a new body of work this year.

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FEATURE

WILLIAM STOREY A contemporary sculptor whose intricate relief works transform organic materials into multi-dimensional compositions. His commissions have included a major commemorative wall sculpture for the NHS, and the iconic The Pulse of Birmingham piece at the Grand Hotel.

IMOGEN MORRIS Born in Birmingham, her innovative use of thread transforms a traditional medium into a sculptural form – part drawing, painting and sculpture. Her original works are in a number of private and public collections. Closely involved in the King’s Trust and a special project for the 50th anniversary celebrations. A graduate member of the Royal Birmingham Society of Artists.

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Photography by Rajesh Chouhan and Charlie Geater

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BUSINESS

WELCOME PARTNER Law firm mfg Solicitors has continued to grow its corporate team in Birmingham with the appointment of Nick Little as a partner and corporate law specialist. Nick, pictured with Clare Lang, partner and head of the firm’s corporate team, will advise clients on a wide range of corporate-related matters, including mergers and acquisitions, disposals, and corporate advisory mandates. Nick’s arrival follows the appointments of fellow corporate partners Matt Smith and Philip Chapman who joined the firm’s Birmingham office, together with Andrew Johnson in Worcester.

WELLNESS MILESTONE

BUSINESS

Former midwife Stacey Johnson is celebrating the third anniversary of her awardwinning women’s health and wellness business, Willow & Wren. The 33-year-old mother of three from Sutton Coldfield set up the business to help those trying to conceive, pregnant women and mums and babies at a time when the number of women seeking perinatal mental health support had increased by 33 per cent.

Willow & Wren offers holistic treatments, classes and courses, local support groups and an online community, and has supported more than 300 families.

WINNING VIBE Birmingham based recruitment and job advertisement firm, Job Vibe, won the Rising Star award at the Digital Job Advertising Excellence (DJAx) Awards in London. The awards bring together businesses from across the online recruitment and job advertising industry, including job boards, recruitment technology providers, platforms and suppliers.

Job Vibe MD Maz Hassan, pictured with director Phillip Birch, said: “Winning the Rising Star award is a reminder of how far we have come, but also how much more there is still to build.”

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NEWS YAPPY DAYS!

Birmingham Dogs Home received a £2,000 ‘treat’ from Enterprise Mobility, a leading provider of mobility services.

The charity was identified by Enterprise Mobility partner Multifleet Vehicle Management, a fleet management and leasing company trading as runyourfleet. Joanna Lees, PR and marketing manager at Solihull-based runyourfleet, said: “It’s a privilege to help a charity that gives every dog a second chance and we’re committed to helping them continue their incredible work.” The cash will pay for equipment and food for dogs at the home.

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BUSINESS

VENDIES VICTORY

Walsall-based vending operator Coinadrink has been named Best Overall Operator at the Vendies awards which recognise excellence in the vending and workplace refreshment industry. Managing director Tom Williams and credit controller Dani Pereira collected the award at a ceremony in London. It marks a major milestone for the family-run business, celebrating its 64th anniversary this year. Coinadrink was hailed for its continued investment in technology, customer service and workplace refreshment innovation, alongside its strong family values and people-first culture.

NIGHT VISION

A new vision to make the West Midlands one of the most vibrant, safe and accessible regions after dark has been unveiled. Measures, including improving safety, boosting grassroots music venues, restoring night bus services and supporting businesses with costs, are set out in the first report by the West Midlands Night-Time Economy Commission. Mayor Richard Parker had tasked leading voices from the region’s pubs, restaurants, theatres, cinemas and entertainment venues with drawing up an assessment of the area’s nightlife and identifying how he can best support the sector.

JUST THE TICKET

TAX RELIEF!

SILENT AUCTION

A Midlands accountancy firm has launched a new company to provide specialist tax and financial support to professional sportspeople. HB&O Sports Management aims to simplify matters like tax returns, efficiency, rebates and HMRC correspondence, offering long-term planning so that professional sportspeople can focus on performance rather than finance. Former England and Aston Villa footballer Tony Daley, who now runs a health and fitness business, and ex-Birmingham City player Beryly Lubala (both pictured) are among well-known names who have signed up.

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Dozens of carers across the West Midlands are set to enjoy free train travel thanks to a new partnership between West Midlands Railway (WMR) and the Susan Vickers Foundation. The initiative awards complimentary rail passes to 40 members of the Wolverhampton-based charity which supports care-experienced people and care-leavers. The partnership was formally launched at the Wolverhampton Mental Health Hub amid hopes that it will inspire other transport providers and cultural venues to explore similar support.

A silent auction at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce’s annual awards raised £3,500 for a Jewellery Quarter-based charity. Organised by sports hospitality firm Eventmasters, the auction delivered the boost to Chamber president Andy Dawson’s chosen charity, Sport 4 Life UK, which uses the power of sport to help disadvantaged young people reach their potential. The charity provides skills, qualifications and support needed to find work and shape successful futures.

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BUSINESS

JQ’S NEW CHAIR

The Jewellery Quarter Business Improvement District has appointed Roxanne Guest as the new chair of its board. Roxanne, who is assay master at the Birmingham Assay Office, will help guide the strategic direction of the BID, working with the board, BID team, local businesses and key partners to ensure the JQ continues to thrive. Roxanne said: “The Jewellery Quarter is a unique place, home to an extraordinary mix of businesses, makers, creatives, hospitality venues, residents and visitors. I look forward to helping ensure it continues to grow and prosper.”

KITCHEN CHAMPS

A Birmingham kitchen renovation business has won a national award after completing a home transformation that impressed judges with its design, quality of finish and value for the customer. Guy Clark, who owns Kitchen Makeovers in Birmingham, was named winner of Kitchen Makeover of the Year at an annual awards ceremony. The award celebrates the best kitchen transformation from across the country. Guy previously spent more than 20 years working in hospitality before starting the business in April 2024.

PROPERTY ROLE Birmingham property consultancy Johnson Fellows has grown its management team by welcoming Paul Evans to its team as client accountant. Paul will support the financial administration of the company’s retail, office and industrial property portfolios on behalf of landlords, investors and property owners. He previously worked for estates and lettings agency Oakmans, where he was responsible for the entire finance function of the business, including all client accounts which included more than 1,800 landlords and 3,000 tenants.

HOLE LOT OF CASH

Local businesses raised more than £56,000 for Midlands Air Ambulance Charity at its annual golf day. Hosted at JCB Golf & Country Club in Staffordshire, the event brought together businesses from across the region to raise vital funds for the charity’s pre-hospital emergency service during its 35th anniversary year. The day’s headline sponsor was Standard Life UK, alongside lead sponsors Brookbanks, Brickability Ltd, WDPS Stoke Limited, NANT – Water Safety Specialists, Hera Waterproofing Ltd, Sempar Accountancy & Tax, Middleby UK Ltd and Lincat Group.

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BUSINESS BITES START UP FINALIST

Wolverhampton-based creative studio Nataliia Korol Design has been named a Midlands regional finalist in the UK StartUp Awards 2026. The business, which specialises in visual branding, has been shortlisted in the Creative StartUp of the Year category.

WORLD TITLE

Whistler’s Storm Liqueur, founded by Birmingham-based Dominic Richardson, won the World's Best Tea Liqueur for its Assam Black at the World Drinks Awards.

Whistler's Storm is a high-quality teainspired liqueur made by cold brewing loose tea leaves with premium vodka.

EASTSIDE DIRECTOR

The Eastside Rooms has appointed a new business development director. Chris Reynolds is responsible for strengthening sales and client relationships, supporting continued growth across the meetings, events and hospitality sectors. He had previously worked with leading brands including Malmaison, Hotel du Vin, Moxy Hotels and Marriott Hotels.

HOUSING MOVE Leading law firm, HCR Law, has expanded its housing team by appointing Bukola Obadun-Craigs as a partner and head of housing management.

Bukola will support clients across the social and affordable housing sector, adjacent communities and later living matters. Her expertise will allow her to act for property developers, large housebuilders, private estates and individual property owners. She also acts as a board member on a Birminghambased housing trust.

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SOCIAL SCENE

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Outdoor catwalk showcases BCU 1000 Threads student designers rindleyplace hosted Birmingham City University’s acclaimed 1000 Threads catwalk, showcasing the creativity of its student fashion designers. Hosted by Strictly Come Dancing’s Brummie star Lauren Oakley, the outdoor event featured 11 collections exploring themes of international connectivity, heritage and archiving. Three students received awards from industry experts. Imarnie Bennett, received the Menswear award, while the Womenswear award went to Frankie Ward. Zoe Bennett received the Gold Award for her menswear collection influenced by the work of Grayson Perry.

1000 Threads was held in partnership with Brindleyplace, with sponsorship from Bank restaurant and Ikon Gallery. I

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1 Zoe Bennett with Jack Irving. 2 Irmarnie Bennett with Andrew Davis. 3 Collection by Rita Silva. 4 Frankie Ward with Corrie Neilsen.

5 Lauren Oakley. 6 Collection by Zoe Bennett. 7 Collection from Irmarnie Bennett. 8 Collection by Corrie Neilsen.

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SOCIAL SCENE

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Family, friends and colleagues celebrate a remarkable career he master-planning and development director of Calthorpe Estates, Ralph Minott recently celebrated a well-deserved retirement send-off at Chapter Restaurant, surrounded by friends, family and colleagues from across his career spanning more than 40 years in the Midlands property sector. Over his 18 years at Calthorpe Estates, Ralph played a pivotal role in securing key occupiers for the Estate, with stand-out contributions including projects such as Pebble Mill, New Garden Square and Greenfield Crescent. I

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1 Reece Minott, Billie Frain, Ralph Minott. 2 Alexa Cotterell, Ralph Minott, Adelaide Heagney. 3 Corey, Natalie, Reece, Ralph and Perry Minott. 4 Ralph Minott, Kay Cadman. 5 Matt Bennett, Lewis Roberts. 6 Tracy Clarke, Ralph Minott. 7 Lyndon Glancy.

9 Ralph Minott.

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ing ON livWHAT’S

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WHAT: Birmingham 2026 European Athletics Championships WHEN: 10 to 16 August WHERE: Alexander Stadium,european-athletics.com For the first time ever, the European Athletics Championships are coming to Britain… and they’re right here in Brum! Get ready for incredible competition and unmissable moments as we’re treated to seven days of worldclass athletics action.

WHAT: Matilda The Musical WHEN: Now to 1 August WHERE: Birmingham Hippodrome, birminghamhippodrome.com This global phenomenon from the Royal Shakespeare Company returns with the story of one extraordinary girl,

WHAT: Spoiler Alert: The Hot Hatch Story WHEN: Now until February 2027 WHERE: British Motor Museum, britishmotormuseum.co.uk Return to the golden era of hot hatches with this brandnew exhibition celebrating the everyday road heroes from the 80’s and 90’s.

WHAT: Moseley Folk & Arts Festival WHEN: 4 to 6 September WHERE: Mosley, moseleyfolk.co.uk An immersive family-friendly festival that celebrates its

with one extraordinary mind.

WHAT: The Circus Spectacular Workshop WHEN: 14 and 15 August WHERE: MAC Birmingham, macbirmingham.co.uk Step into a fun, high energy circus workshop with Circus Mash where everyone can join in, explore, and shine, no experience needed!

20th anniversary of exploring the very best of contemporary folk music, arts and crafts.

WHAT: Roger Taylor WHEN: 24 September WHERE: The Alexandra, atgtickets.com The legendary Queen drummer, singer and songwriter pops into Brum as part of a six-venue tour of his acclaimed new album, Violence Insane in a Beautiful World.

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WHAT’S ON WHAT: In The Night Garden Live WHEN: 31 July WHERE: Belgrade Theatre, belgrade.co.uk

WHAT: MCM Comic Con WHEN: 7 to 9 August WHERE: NEC Birmingham, mcmcomiccon.com

Join Igglepiggle in this magical,

– at the NEC! This amazing show

enchanting show as he looks

is packed with all-things anime,

for his friends in the Night

film, TV and gaming. What’s not

Garden by following their

to love, Sheldon…

It’s back – and bigger than ever

funny sounds until he finds

WHAT: Game of Thrones: The Mad King WHEN: 20 July to 5 September WHERE: RSC Theatre, rsc.org.uk

them all!

WHAT: Angela de la Cruz: Upright WHEN: Now until 6 September WHERE: Ikon Gallery, ikon-gallery.org

A sweeping new stage epic from the world of George R. R. Martin, written by Duncan

A wonderful opportunity to enjoy

Macmillan, spans the final

the rarely seen works by this leading

years before the events of the

figure in contemporary sculpture as

novels, revealing a legendary

she marks her first solo exhibition in

chapter of Westerosi history.

the UK outside London.

WHAT: Sweeney Todd The Musical WHEN: Now until 15 August WHERE: Birmingham Rep, birmingham-rep.co.uk After finding out he’s lost everything he ever loved, Sweeney swears revenge and so begins a chilling tale. This darkly comic and dramatic musical is not to be missed.

WHAT: Edgbaston Artisan Market WHEN: 8 August WHERE: Greenfield Crescent, Edgbaston, calthorpe.co.uk Birmingham’s largest artisan market features

WHAT: Toto The Ninja Cat and the Great Snake Escape WHEN: 15 and 16 August WHERE: Town Hall, bmusic.co.uk

independent businesses from across the

Based on Dermot O’Leary’s best-selling

Midlands showcasing the finest range of

children’s book, this thrilling tale is filled with

artisan food and drink, alongside handmade

original music, laugh-out-loud fun and

arts and crafts and farmers’ market produce.

extraordinary puppetry for the whole family.

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WHAT: Michael Ball: Glow WHEN: 30 August WHERE: Symphony Hall, bmusic.co.uk The double Olivier Award-winning, Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum recording artist and world leading musical star is in town to perform songs from his new album and other fan favourites.

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CLOSE WITHÁ ROB HOWELL

THE AWARD-WINNING THEATRE DESIGNER AND ALUMNI OF BIRMINGHAM POLYTECHNIC (NOW BCU) TALKS ABOUT HIS CAREER – FROM A ‘BEANS ON TOAST POOR’ FREELANCER TO THE HUGE SUCCESS THAT IS MATILDA THE MUSICAL BEEN THERE, DONE THAT I did a three-year design course at Birmingham Polytechnic, then became resident design assistant at the Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford.

After two-and-a-half seasons there, I decided to go it alone. I went from earning good money to no money. I moved to London and started schlepping my portfolio around and writing letters. I’d pick up the odd tiny show but it was three years before anything really started to happen. I was beans on toast poor and thought about packing it all in. The months of uncertainty were hard, but I carried on. I now have a studio and a great team, and it’s a privilege.

IT’S WHAT I DO I’m sent plays, musicals and operas to read to see if I can do something with them. Sometimes that means quick ideas, so for instance I read something 10 days ago and we start to build next week. Sometimes it’s years. If it’s work for The Met it could be four-and-a-half years. I have a team of permanent associates, then depending on the job we bring in other people. The great thing is, it’s often surprising and I think, ‘I didn’t see that coming’. It’s often chaotic. It might be 16-hour days at times and lots of travelling on planes.

Matilda The Musical runs from 1 July to 2 August at Birmingham Hippodrome

BIGGEST SUCCESS Matilda has been going for 15 years, so I think I’d have to say that. I had no idea it would be so successful, but I did know it was a story that universally speaks to children and adults and I thought I could find a way to make it work. At the time I was approached, the script was there but the search was on for a composer. Tim’s (Minchin) name was swirling around. He’d just won an award and was doing a gig at the Bloomsbury Theatre. I went to watch it with the director Matthew (Warchus).

Tim was hilarious and I was having a ball, but Matthew was questioning whether he was capable of making people cry as well as laugh. Then Tim came back out after the curtain had gone down and played White Wine in the Sun which is a love letter to his daughter. It was deeply emotional and that was it. I would run up a blind alley with the design. Then we’d meet up and share where we all were. Then we’d go off again, come back and share more ideas. It muddled its way along.

BIGGEST LESSON LEARNED Just be nice. I’ve watched other people not do it.

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT BRUM I lived in a student house with 11 people in Moseley and the Trafalgar pub was at the top of our road, so we spent a lot of time in there. I was asked to come back and do a talk at what was my old college. I got off the train confident I knew the way, but the city has completely changed. I got lost. The transformation is remarkable.

For tickets visit: birminghamhippodrome.com/calendar/ matilda-the-musical

66 birmingham living

DOWNTIME? I cook. I

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