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MIDLANDS MAGAZINE OF THE YEAR
September 2026
AW26
EDIT FINE ARTIST ANYA KALSI
SUSHI PASSION
NAILED IT! BIO SCULPTURE
RISING STAR
DAVINA PERRIN CHEF ALEX TUMMINELLI
TIM WARWOOD
SWITCH ON
FAB LIGHTING
ON THE PISTE WITH THE VOICE OF SNOWBOARDING
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EDITOR’S VIEW
I
t really doesn’t come much better, does it? Matt Hudson-Smith, the hometown boy, on his hometown track, watched by his hometown fans, roaring him on from the stand that bears his name. In an unforgettable night, mighty Matt achieved legendary status in what was the most emotional 44.17 seconds of his life. That’s how long it took the two-time European 400-metre champion to power round the Alexander Stadium track to become the three-time champion. Cue scenes of joy, jubilation and celebration at the place he calls ‘home’, where he began his athletics journey as a nine-year-old with a dream. We interviewed Matt as our front cover star in last month’s issue, when he told us that he wanted to win an historic third title in Brum to create a legacy and inspire other local nine-year-olds to say: “If Matt can do it, then so can I.” Sport is all about role models – none more so than in football. While it’s early days in the new season, supporters are already looking to their local teams to chase glory. Aston Villa fans face an exciting Champions League campaign ahead, while newly promoted Coventry City, will be hoping to build a successful first season in the Premier League. In the EFL Championship, Birmingham City, Stoke City, West Brom and Wolves will all be aiming to make this a season to remember, too. Turning to a different kind of support, the local hospitality industry continues to appeal for more help in the face of ever-increasing costs and fewer customers with spare cash to spend. They’re calling on new PM Andy Burnham to cut VAT on their businesses by half, to 10 per cent – a vital move for the good of the West Midlands, and the country.
s n h o J d i v Da
visit www.brumliving.co.uk @brum_living
Cover image:
DRESSED TO IMPRESS: Tim Warwood
/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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06 10 14 18 28 30 04 birmingham living
Highlights
News
Bringing you the brightest stories from across the city this month
Tim Warwood Living the dream with the BBC’s Olympic snowboarding king Davina Perrin Fastest Hundred century, an England cricket call-up – and she’s still only 19! Food & Drink Head chef Alex Tumminelli of Fumo Selfridges, plus top recipes and wine Health It’s time to grab the (Bullring) by the horns and Run Forrest, Run! Style Get ready for the new season ahead with our super-stylish AW26 Edit
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CONTENTS
Best of the Rest
40 50 54 59 64 66 september 2026
Homes Light ideas to change the mood of your crib – at the flick of a switch!
Young, Gifted and Brummie From volunteering to fine art, meet award-winning artist Anya Kalsi Company to Watch The inspiring story of David Blick and The Warwickshire Gin Company 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 Amanda Chalmers, history-making head of Chalmers News PR agency
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NEWS
MILLION-POUND BIKERS More than 3,000 motorcyclists revved it up at Midlands Air Ambulance Charity’s fund-raising Bike4Life Ride Out and Festival. The event, in partnership with West Mercia Police and National Highways, marked a major milestone for the charity with the £91,000 raised this year pushing the overall total to more than £1million since the festival’s launch in 2010. Emma Wood, head of fundraising and engagement, said: “The biking community continues to show amazing support for our charity and the funds raised make a real difference to the patients we care for.”
NEWS
WANTED: STRICTLY MEN Guys are being urged to step on the dancefloor for a Strictly
Christmas. Applications are open for this year’s Strictly
BRINGING YOU THE BRIGHTEST AND MOST COLOURFUL STORIES FROM ACROSS THE REGION EACH MONTH
Christmas fund-raiser in aid of Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice Coventry – with organisers particularly on the lookout for local men to take part. The event gives beginners the chance to learn two choreographed dance routines before performing live at a gala weekend in December. Every pound raised will help Zoe’s Place deliver care to hundreds of families each year. Search ‘Strictly
PURRFECT DAY OUT
Christmas 2026’ on social media for details.
Calling all moggy lovers! The UK’s only non-competitive cat expo, The Cat Show Live, is back for its third year at the NEC Birmingham. Highlights on 12 September include the Cat Village, featuring 250 felines from more than 50 different breeds complete with their breeders, Retail Avenue with over 100 cat brands offering everything from food and furniture to accessories and gifts, and Theatre Square with expert-led talks and demos. Plus, Kitty Academy gives kids the chance to learn about cat care through fun, interactive activities.
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MARRIAGE OF DISTINCTION Two international students from Aston University have tied the knot after falling in love while studying an MSc course in Birmingham. Farjana Mon and Mahmudul Hasan from Bangladesh both met while studying the MSc International Accounting & Finance (IA&F) programme. The couple both graduated with distinction in July. The pair had already struck up an online conversation before travelling to the UK as part of a social media group designed to help international students make friends and provide support. After meeting in person, it was ‘love at first bite’ after Farjana tasted Mahmudul’s culinary skills during a special meal he cooked for her.
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NEWS
THE WORLD OF BRUM International Day of Birmingham – the annual celebration of Birmingham, UK and its namesakes across the world – is back! Held on 24 September, the day champions global communities that make up our home city, alongside international counterparts in Birmingham, Alabama and beyond. A programme of events entitled The House That Brum Built will take place at Birmingham Council House. Originally devised for the Sky TV show, Joe Lycett’s United States of Birmingham, the yearly celebration is delivered by International Day of Birmingham CIC. Image by Kate Hollingsworth
EXPRESS DELIVERY x
BAEBES ON SONG
Multi-award-winning vocal group, the Mediaeval Baebes, have chosen Birmingham to celebrate their 30th anniversary with a special performance at St Martin in the Bullring in December. Over the past three decades the Baebes have released 12 studio albums, won an Ivor Novello Award for their performance on the BBC serialisation The Virgin Queen, received two Emmy nominations, and a Royal Television Society award. The concert features a torchlit procession, medieval instruments and drums and tracks from latest album, The Spinning Wheel.
Rusty and Belle from the cast of Starlight Express arrived at Moor Street station to announce that Andrew Lloyd Webber’s famous musical is on track for Birmingham following a record-breaking revival in London. The new production of the original roller-skating classic – already seen by more than 30 million theatre-goers world-wide – promises plenty of high-speed energy and hit songs when the curtain goes up, and a child’s train set magically comes to life, at Birmingham Hippodrome in August 2027.
STREET ART ADDITION Birmingham street artist Joshua Billingham, professionally known as Gent 48, worked his magic to transform a Digbeth wall into an interactive mural. Created in a partnership with London Northwestern Railway, the mural encourages people to think differently about travelling between Birmingham and London, while being designed as an authentic addition to Digbeth’s celebrated street art scene. With more than 25 years of experience creating graffiti and large-scale murals, Gent 48’s work showcases the strength of Birmingham’s creative community.
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NEWS
WIN WITH VILLA Leading online competition company BOTB has teamed up with Aston Villa to launch Villa Win, the club’s official prize draw competition. Under the partnership BOTB, part of Winvia Entertainment PLC, will develop and operate Villa Win, giving fans the opportunity to enter regular prize draws, with the potential to win exclusive money-can't-buy experiences, hospitality packages, and unique club-related prizes.
HASAN’S COMEDY CALL
From Birmingham Living cover star to appearing at next month’s Birmingham Comedy Festival! Brum's very own Hasan Al-Habib will be on stage as part of a line-up of top names as the festival celebrates its 25th anniversary from Friday 2 to Sunday 11 October. Organisers are hoping to top last year’s audience total, which topped 21,000 visitors, with nearly 100 performances across 25 venues this time around. Among the must-see shows is the annual Breaking Talent Award on 2 October at the Glee Club. Hasan who was recently seen on BBC Two’s Pilgrimage, was a previous winner of the award.
AIR BEE AND BEE
HOTSHOT CHAMPS
West Midlands-based recruitment specialist Pertemps hosted its first Penalty Shoot-Out, bringing colleagues from across the business together for an afternoon of friendly competition, teamwork and fund-raising. Temp Payroll were crowned champions, winning a £500 donation to their chosen charity, The Teddy Rose Foundation, which provides emotional, practical and financial support to families following the loss of a baby during pregnancy, birth or infancy. Runners-up IT took the £250 donation for their chosen charity, the National Deaf Children’s Society.
HERE’S HARRY!
A Solihull-based housebuilder has joined West Midlands Safari Park to construct a new wildlife habitat within the grounds. David Wilson Homes Mercia built the six-foot ‘bug hotel’ for the safari park in Bewdley, which has been designed to provide habitats for native insects and creatures including bees, butterflies, hedgehogs and many more. Lickhill Primary School Year 6 pupil Reuben won the competition to name the new feature with his suggestion of ‘Air Bee and Bee’.
School of Jewellery students from Birmingham City University (BCU) met Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, to signal one year to go until the start of the Invictus Games which are being held in Birmingham for the first time. Through its expanding involvement with Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 and as Official University Partner of last month’s European Athletics Championships, BCU is playing a key role in helping shape unforgettable experiences for athletes, spectators and students.
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NEWS
WELLNESS HUB
Local entrepreneur Katrina Fox has opened an inspiring new wellness hub combining boutique barre classes with an organic wellness café – creating a space designed not just for fitness but for community. RFRM HAUS is located next door to RFRM’s original reformer Pilates studio in Tamworth, where the business first began in 2023. The concept promotes the idea that the healthiest communities are those where people feel connected. Katrina, 29, has grown RFRM from one independent Pilates studio in Tamworth into a multi-site wellness brand with locations including Solihull.
RAINBOW RUSH
Birmingham’s most colourful fun run is returning to Cofton Park on Saturday 19 September. Rainbow Rush features a 2.5km or 5km route and is a great family day out with a Zumba warm-up, giant paint throw, dance tunnels, bubbles and foam – all while raising money for Birmingham Hospice. Hospice events manager Kimberley Williams said: “This makes a huge difference to the hospice, helping ensure vital care and support can continue for local families.” Find out more at the Birmingham Hospice website: https://fundraise.birminghamhospice.org.uk/event/rainbow-rush
LOOPY OVER SNOOPY One of the most-loved cartoon
characters of all-time popped up across Birmingham this summer. Twelve Snoopy sculptures featured on a public art trail organised by Wild in Art and funded by Central BID Birmingham. Fans of the Peanuts cartoon beagle, created by Charles M Schulz, found him laying on brightly painted doghouses designed by a dozen local artists at various city centre locations. The trail helped raise money for Acorns Children’s Hospice.
AUCTION ON THE CARDS A cash boost is on the cards for the 200-year-old Royal Birmingham Society of Artists. The charity, which receives no public funding, is offering the public a unique opportunity to purchase original artwork at great prices in a blind auction. The postcards on display have been created by RBSA members and associates, including Lot 157 by Steve Evans pictured, plus guest artist Curtis Holder, and are currently in the auction on the Givergy website. Each piece comes framed with offers starting at £40. Happy bidding!
GOT ANY NEWS? Email your news and pictures to editor@brumliving.co.uk
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BATTLE OF THE BATONS The world’s most exciting emerging orchestral conductors will take to the podium at Symphony Hall when the prestigious 6th Evgeny Svetlanov International Conducting Competition makes its UK debut. Held every four years, the internationally acclaimed event is being held in partnership with the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra from 3 to 6 September, with the semi-finals and finals open to the public at Symphony Hall on 5 and 6 September.
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COVER STORY
TIM’S WILD RIDE
WHETHER YOU KNOW YOUR BACKSIDE RODEO FROM YOUR WILDCAT, YOU’LL KNOW TIM WARWOOD’S UNMISTAKABLE BRUMMIE TWANG AND ENERGETIC SNOWBOARDING COMMENTARY. WE HAD A NATTER AND FOUND SNOWBOARDING TO BE SO MUCH MORE THAN SPORT
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COVER STORY
f you watched the BBC’s coverage of the Winter Olympics, you’ll have encountered Tim Warwood and his friend of 20 years, Ed Leigh living the dream commentating on a sport they’ve loved, excelled at, championed and helped shape. Their genuine excitement was palpable and infectious and for the first time, viewing figures put freestyle on a par with alpine skiing which has traditionally been the blue riband event. While snowboarding likes to shy away from the mainstream and remain a bit alternative, Tim’s becoming a more regular fixture on our TV screens covering events away from the snow, such as the London marathon among other gigs.
I
TEEN SPIRIT Tim describes his teenage self as a grotty skateboarder with baggy clothes and scruffy hair. He wasn’t into football and rugby like lots of the lads at school and was a bit of an outcast – not bullied, just a bit different. In 1994 when the SnowDome opened in Tamworth close to his home in Aldridge, Tim went along to see what it was all about. He’d been on a school ski trip to Italy and thought he’d give it a whirl. When he saw the snowboarders doing their thing, he liked the look of it and hasn’t been on a pair of skis since. The SnowDome had been open for just three weeks and Tim asked if he could do his work experience there. They agreed and the rest is history. Tim spent every spare minute riding. Beyond his work experience period, Tim stayed at the SnowDome working and riding as much as he could. He says: “I absolutely loved it. Just sliding sideways and doing a few tricks. I was quite good at it and I found my crew, my gang. It was a lovely thing.” POWDER FOR DAYS Tim travelled the country riding in Edinburgh, Rossendale, Gloucester and Plymouth enjoying the scene and thriving. When he was just 16, he was offered a job at a friend’s chalet in the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. He says: “I have a daughter
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the same age now and it blows my mind that mum and dad let me go. It was a different time. It’s mad really. I was mainly riding powder everyday.” When Tim got back he found out he’d been enlisted to the Team GB Junior Snowboard Team so he worked all summer saving up so he could go to the World Championships in Japan. In the early noughties Tim was all about packing in as many powder days as possible with a season in Whistler, Vail and Breckenridge, four seasons in Morzine and the British Championships in Meribel. He’s still the current British slalom champion largely because the event disbanded, but still… BAH HUMBUG The media bug kicked off early for Tim and he had some sketchy stints at Rossendale dry ski slope as a teen commenting on the action to crowds of four people, but it got him started. He’s now a regular on BBC2’s Ski Sunday as well as Red Bull snow sports live events, presenting on Free Radio and hosting The Après Podcast with friends Jenny Jones and Ollie Peart. Tim’s first commentating job at the Winter Olympics was the Sochi Games in 2014 when Jenny Jones won the bronze medal at which point he, Ed and fellow boarder Aimee Fuller erupted with emotion and huge pride. It was quite the moment – Jenny had been a trailblazer of the women’s sport and it was the first Winter Olympic medal GB had ever won. There were some complaints to the BBC due to the trio’s lack of partiality which seems a bit harsh. BAGGY TROUSERS Encouraged by people like Jenny, Tim and Ed snowboarding has never been stronger. The tricks are getting bigger and bigger at a phenomenal rate. Tim says: “Every four-year Olympic cycle the riders are adding another 360. To put that into context, it took 30 years for a triple toe loop to progress to a quad toe loop in figure skating.” As well as the kit being better and the boards lighter, Tim says the competitors are super professional.
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COVER STORY
“In my day we’d have a few pints the night before a competition. Now they are athletes working really hard week in, week out. There are also a lot of them, so at the World Cup for example there are between 90 and 120 riders all pushing one another along.” The Olympics aren’t the bee-all and end-all for snowboarders. The XGames for instance happens every year which celebrates the culture plus there’s big money involved. Also, some riders aren’t comfortable with the conformity of the Olympics given snowboarding culture is alternative. The style is intrinsic to that culture so the team uniform irks a bit for some although the baggy relaxed trews prevail.
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HOME SWEET HOME Tim’s back in the Midlands having lived in Brighton for a while followed by London where he met up with his wife who he’d known as a youngster. They had a baby in London and started hankering after a slower pace of life which meant moving back to be close to both their families. Tim’s enjoying being a bit older and not chasing work so much although having said that, he has a policy of never saying no. His dream job – and this came as a surprise – is quiz show host. He says: “I would absolutely love that. Like a poor man’s Bradley Walsh!” Now he’s said it, we are convinced it will happen. I
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FEATURE
RISING STAR
DAVINA PERRIN BURST ONTO THE CRICKET SCENE AGED JUST 18 WITH AN EXTRAORDINARY KNOCK IN LAST YEAR’S HUNDRED ELIMINATOR, CATCHING THE EYE OF ENGLAND SELECTORS. THIS SUMMER, SHE WAS BACK ON HOME TURF AT EDGBASTON STADIUM FOR THE BIRMINGHAM PHOENIX – AND WE CAUGHT UP WITH DAVINA AHEAD OF HER CAMPAIGN
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FEATURE
avina Perrin’s show-stopping knock at the Oval last summer achieving 101 in only 43 balls not only ensured Northen Superchargers spot in the final but became the fastest century in the history of the women’s Hundred competition. It was the dream innings for Davina topped only by her family’s exuberant celebrations in the stand which made for excellent viewing. “I could actually hear my mum! She was so loud,” recalls Davina. Afterwards, the England management came calling and Davina’s striving for a regular spot in the national side after successfully working her way back to full fitness after a hamstring injury. She’s still only 19-years-old.
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GOLDEN HOUR A big fan of The Hundred before she became a star of the game, Davina followed the Phoenix to the Eliminator in that first year. She says: ““People were sceptical but as a young fan it was so exciting. Watching your favourite
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sport grow, it was brilliant. I was the biggest fan.” Davina also recognises the impact the tournament has had on the women’s game particularly. “It’s done wonders. The double header has helped. Fans would arrive at the end of the women’s game initially and realise, ‘actually this is alright’. Fans of the men’s game probably needed an excuse and the double header provided that.” Davina’s had two years away from the Phoenix but is pleased to be back. She’s grown up playing at Edgbaston, so to be on home turf is a joy. Davina says the ground is full of good vibes. She says: “The later games with the sun setting are particularly good. When that orange light hits the Hollies and balls are flying everywhere, it’s unmatched.” The tournament has given Davina and all the young players ‘an opportunity to put their name on the map’ and also learn from some of the greatest players in the world – namely the Australians. She says: “The Aussies
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FEATURE
are a different gravy! You learn so much from them obviously in terms of the skills but also the scheduling, the fitness and generally how things work at their end.” DON’T MENTION HOLES… The Hundred’s on-field player mic has been a revelation and Davina’s chats have been no exception. Chats ranged from her penchant for creating coffee art. For instance, when she nails a swan first thing in the morning, she knows it’s going to be a good day. Then there’s her fear of holes. Yes holes. From Swiss cheese to holes in the road, she shudders at the very thought. Naturally her fear is fair game for a ribbing from her team-mates who switched her screen saver to Swiss cheese while she was batting one day… Growing up, Davina just wanted to do what her big sister was doing which happened to be cricket. Like many younger siblings, she remembers: “I also wanted to do it better!” Many back garden games followed and when Davina’s sister started playing at school, she wanted in on the action too. The teacher wasn’t keen as he felt Davina was too young. When she moved schools Davina was able to play a little but it was at her local club, Fordhouses Cricket Club in Wolverhampton, where she really flourished. It’s also where she met coach Chris Guest who is now England Women’s U19 head coach. Davina’s sister was playing in the U9 team and true to form she wanted to play too but was aged just six-years-old. Davina’s dad had a word with coach Chris who watched her play and agreed. County cricket
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at Warwickshire followed and now England. Davina says it was like a full circle moment working with Chris in the U19. Davina’s love of the game is obvious but we wonder what it is particularly that she enjoys. “I love how it feels when the ball pings off the middle of the bat. I love that you can be the smallest person but have the biggest impact on a game and celebrating with team-mates.” Davina’s cricket heroes include Viv Richards for his ‘swagger and ability to move the game’, Brian Lara because of his ‘hunger to score runs’ and Michael Holden’s ‘fast and nasty bowling’. She says: “They changed the game. They had an impact, they inspired and I want to do that in the current era.” GIVING BACK As well as being busy playing and training, Davina’s been involved in promoting England and Wales Cricket Cities Programme which works to remove barriers to participation. Davina attended one of the Cardio Cricket sessions in Aston that take place across the city every week. Participants enjoyed sessions alongside Davina and fellow Phoenix players Alana King, Will Smeed and Usman Tariq. KP Snacks are putting funding into the ECB scheme which will enable the Warwickshire Cricket Foundation to put on more sessions and engage additional coaching across the region. For Davina, whose pathway was supported by the African Caribbean Engagement Programme it’s important to give back and encourage more people to get stuck into the sport she loves. I
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FOOD & DRINK
ALEX TUMMINELLI
THE HEAD CHEF AT FUMO SELFRIDGES BIRMINGHAM TALKS GROWING UP IN SOUTHERN ITALY, GRANDMOTHER’S SLOW COOKED SUNDAY RAGU, PERFECT PASTA – AND ENJOYING WHALE CARPACCIO IN NORWAY!
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CHEF’S CORNER
Tell us about your cooking I’m from Calabria in Southern Italy and grew up with my grandmother’s cooking. A lot of what I cook comes from family recipes and traditional Italian dishes. It’s about simple ingredients, the right cooking time and getting the balance of the dish right. I eventually became more curious about different cuisines, like French, Spanish and Japanese. I’m always looking to learn something new and mix things up.
How did you become a chef? Thirty years ago, there wasn’t as much readymade food so everything was made fresh. My grandma and mother are big influences. They cook every day, and on Sundays for around 15 to 20 people! For me cooking is an act of love. It makes me proud when someone enjoys something I’ve made. My main training was in Italy before moving to the UK. I’ve worked alongside and learnt from lots of chefs, including Francesco Savino, who was my first trainer, as well as Antonino Cannavacciuolo and Giorgio Locatelli.
Food heaven and food hell? Heaven is a classic carbonara – made with guanciale rather than pancetta – or fresh fish pasta. Hell would be cheese on fish as it destroys the flavour of the fish.
What do you eat at home?
What’s the most unusual thing you’ve eaten?
Pasta, three or four times a week. I switch it up with different sauces and ingredients and I really like cooking with meat and fish as I think it’s important to have a balanced diet. There’s always room for dessert – nothing beats a tiramisu!
Whale carpaccio in Norway. It tasted more like lean meat with quite an iron flavour. It was nice and different from anything I had tried before.
Who’s the best chef in the world and why? And who’s the best in Brum? That’s a tricky question! In the world, I would say Massimo Bottura. He trained in France and later Spain and found a way to bring tradition and innovation together. In Birmingham, Adam Stokes from Adams Restaurant. His cooking is very close to what I would see as my ideal restaurant. He has a Michelin star and deserves that recognition.
What was your favourite food as a kid? The Sunday Ragu. Slow cooked with pork, beef, or ribs. My grandmother would be up at 5.30am to start cooking before going to church at 10am. The meat would cook until around midday.
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Share a cooking tip Make fresh pasta by mixing flour and eggs at an ambient room temperature. When you start mixing the dough, the gluten begins to stress itself, so leave it to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes and cover with cling film and a bowl on top so no air gets in. This gives the gluten time to relax and makes sure it tastes how it’s supposed to.
If you weren’t a chef, what would you be? I was previously in the Royal Navy, so I’d probably be a naval engineer. I
Fumo Selfridges Birmingham, Floor 4, Selfridges, Upper Mall East, Upper Dean Street, B5 4BP. Tel: 0121 600 6869, sancarlo.co.uk
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SEASON’S EATINGS
HONEY FLAPJACKS Need a little pick-me-up as we say goodbye to summer? Here’s the perfect recipeÁ ho doesn’t love a classic British flapjack? So, why not try this gloriously simple recipe for a special sweet treat from chef Tim Jenkins at Brockencote Hall. I
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INGREDIENTS I I I I I
680g gluten-free oats 204g honey 204g golden syrup 408g unsalted butter 408g caster sugar
METHOD
I Set the oven to 150°C fan. Warm the honey, golden syrup, butter and caster sugar to 120°C. Pour over the oats and mix well. I Pour the mixture into a 30cm by 20cm lined deep baking tray. Place in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. I Leave to cool in the tray before cutting into portions.
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FOOD & DRINK
NIBBLES and SHORTS
BIRMINGHAM’S BARS, RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS ARE BUZZING WITH EXCITING, NEW VIBES. HERE’S OUR INSIDER GUIDE TO THE LATEST NEWS FROM THE CITY’S EATERIES AND DRINKING DENS
BELFRY HOTEL OF THE YEAR
The Belfry has been named Independent Hotel of the Year at annual industry-leading awards, The Cateys. Judges praised the Belfry as an innovative standalone hotel which had excelled in its class while regaining its ‘iconic status’. The Belfry recently completed a £85million expansion, nearly doubling the resort’s size with the addition of 149 new bedrooms, the Masters Suite events and conference venue, The Club fitness and leisure centre, and Woodland Adventures outdoor play space for younger guests.
IINDIAN’S NEW OWNERS
Birmingham city centre Indian restaurant Itihaas has new owners – award-winning independent group, My Delhi. The move marks My Brum has welcomed Sǣl – the much-anticipated Delhi's first venture into Birmingham and restaurant from acclaimed chef patron Jonny Mills, the group’s first acquisition. The new which has opened at the Goodsyard in the Jewellery ownership team includes My Delhi Quarter. With just eight seats arranged around an founders Elahi Amin, executive chef elegant kitchen counter, Sǣl is a dining experience that Gaurav Dayal, Shah Amin, Gaurav is intimate, immersive and deeply rooted in the Goyal and Neha Goyal. For seasons. Guests take part in a single sitting per service Birmingham residents Gaurav and – where the kitchen becomes stage and table, Neha, bringing My Delhi to their home encouraging “conversation, craft and conviviality”, city through the acquisition of Itihaas while the menu is driven by seasonal is a particularly special moment. produce and the finest local suppliers.
JONNY’S LITTLE GEM
JAPANESE OPENING
Award-winning Japanese Kitchen & Bar, KIBOU, is opening at Temple Row this autumn. The venue boasts up to 200 covers across a bar and lounge, open sushi kitchen, main restaurant and private dining space. The opening marks a significant step in the brand’s expansion, adding to its existing Solihull site. Sam Horswill, MD at KIBOU, said: “We’ve had our eye on Birmingham for a long time and we’re so excited to be growing our brand in the heart of the city.”
NEW VEGAN FESTIVAL
UCB’S £15M CUBE MOVE
A new vegan festival is coming to Brum in November. Birmingham Vegan Festival at Aston Students Union will feature more than 80 vegan stalls, including food vendors selling tasty plant-based cuisine. The event, organised by Vegan Events UK on Saturday 14 November, will also offer cruelty-free beauty, skincare, homewares and gifts, plus talks, demonstrations, workshops and information on a vegan lifestyle. With free entry for accompanied under-16s, it’s geared-up to attract families.
University College Birmingham has acquired the former Cube Hotel and Marco Pierre White restaurant in a £15million investment programme taking over the 23rd, 24th and 25th floors to open a 52-bedroom hotel and restaurant. The programme also includes launching a new neighbourhood restaurant in Harborne, café, restaurant and bar at UCB’s Summer Row campus, and a full refurbishment of the existing restaurant at Birmingham College of Food. The venues will operate as commercial businesses while providing UCB students with world-class training opportunities.
REVAMP VISITOR SURGE
A Leamington restaurant has seen a surge in visitors since its relaunch a year ago. The Warwick at Mallory Court Hotel and Spa has welcomed nearly 800 more dinner covers compared to the previous 12 months. With a new look dining room, the re-branding focuses on British tradition featuring seasonal ingredients from Mallory Court’s kitchen gardens – all under the guidance of executive head Chef Stu Deeley. The most popular dish? That’s been the Baked Alaska, with guests able to sample different seasonal varieties through the year.
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COCKTAIL OF THE MONTH
SPICING UP A CLASSIC The Moscow Mule gets a delicious Italian make-over from the team at La Bellezza or sure it’s a cocktail classic, but we reckon the Moscow Mule has been made even better thanks to this spiced-up recipe – with an Italian twist – from the mixologists at Birmingham’s La Bellezza. The added hit of acqua di cedro (a grappa-based lemon liqueur) gives the tipple a uniquely dry after-taste that’ll leave you purring for more. As always, please enjoy responsibly. I
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INGREDIENTS:
I 40ml vodka I 20ml lemon juice I 100ml ginger ale
I 15ml Nardini acqua di cedro I 15ml Monin apple pie
METHOD: Add all ingredients to a Boston tin, shake and double strain over ice.
La Bellezza, Two Chamberlain Square, Paradise, Birmingham, B3 3AX
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RESTAURANT REVIEW
SUSHI PASSION
28-29 Great Western Arcade, Birmingham, B2 5HU. Tel: 07436 463052 sushipassion.co.uk
hen your daughter’s home from university and wants to eat ‘proper sushi’ where are we going? There’s something about the prospect of eating raw fish that makes us a lot more picky than we are when popping to the pub for a scotch egg. There was only one place in the city that winked at us vigorously and you’ve probably been going there for years. Sushi Passion. What started life as a five-seater stall in the indoor market relocated to Great Western Arcade in 2012 and moved to a bigger space in the Arcade in 2022. The interior is as you’d expect – simple, minimalist, typically Japanese, including seats on the floor. Although if you’ve creaking limbs don’t panic – there are tables and chairs! A small open kitchen of chefs making sushi fresh to order was a thing of beauty while every plate of food should have been in a gallery. We’re not going to
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describe each dish we ate as we’re not experts and it would take all day, but there were three stand-out dishes that deserve a mention. We both adored the Inari Pickled – a twist on the usual Inari which is essentially a tofu pocket stuffed with rice and various flavours usually wasabi and seaweed. This version had pickled ginger, radish and kanpyo and tasted off the scale incredible. Spicy Hamachi – yellowtail, cucumber, avocado, spicy mayo, lemon zest and green tobiko (fish roe) was super fresh and zingy with a nice kick of heat. Last, but not least, the salmon teriyaki futomaki was a richer dish with a katsu sauce and mayo and crunch from fried onions – proper sushi we both agreed. While Great Western Arcade is a stunning bit of architectural magic, it’s probably not big on passing trade so it might not get the love it deserves. We’ll be back again to work our way through the menu and we highly recommend. I
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FOOD & DRINK
WINE LOVERS! THE SEARCH IS ON FOR SOMETHING DIFFERENT… DAVID CARNE LOOKS BEYOND THE UK TOP-SELLING WHITE WINES TO DISCOVER EXCITING ALTERNATIVES WE SHOULD ALL TRY any wine drinkers are creatures of habit – we have our ‘go-to’ wines and we like to stick to them. Wandering the supermarket aisles, or the shelves of our favourite wine shop, we reach for that Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio or Prosecco because we know we are going to enjoy it. This is borne out in the data which suggests that Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay are the three most popular white wines in the UK, and Prosecco is the market leading sparkling. Between them these wines make up around 50 per cent of all white and sparkling wine sold in the UK market. And yet there are around 800 recognised white grape varieties in the world and thousands of wine styles. Our wine choices are often determined by the flavours we enjoy, but also by the fear that if we pick something else, we may have spent money on something we don't like. This keeps us safe from any nasty surprises but can also mean we don’t discover any hidden gems. In this article, I thought I’d share some potential
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styles and regions to explore based on some of those most popular white and sparkling wine styles. If you like Sauvignon Blanc, try… We love New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc in this country, with its searing acidity, aromatic nose and intense freshness. Outside of New Zealand, South Africa and Chile are also making some amazing Sauvignon Blancs which are worth trying. However, getting a little more creative there are some very fresh Verdejo wines from the Rueda wine region in Spain which Sauvignon Blanc drinkers may enjoy, as well as Picpoul de Pinet wines from France, Albariño wines from Spain, Grüner Veltliner wines from Austria and Feteasc Regal wines from Romania. Some of these wines might not only please your palate, but your wallet as well. If you like Pinot Grigio, try… While New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc announces itself with bold aromas of grapefruit, passion fruit
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FOOD & DRINK
DAVID’S RECOMMENDATIONS Something sparkling: Krone Rosé Cap Classique – £21, Wineswithattitude Expect a pale salmon hue, fine mousse and a refreshing berry fruit driven flavour profile, supported by a hint of toasted hazelnut and biscuit.
Something Fresh and Fruity: Nos Somos Vinho Verde – £10, Morrisons Crisp, refreshing, orchard fruit and citrus with a hint of tropical pineapple, passion fruit and blossom. A little effervescent.
Something Big and Bold: Zensa Organic Nero di Troia IGP Puglia – £14.50, Urban Grapes A big, luscious red, bursting with blackcurrant, spice, plum, smooth tannins and cocoa with a long finish.
Something Classic: Louis Jadot Bourgogne Gamay – £21.99, Simplywinesdirect.uk Medium bodied red with tart cherry, plum, spice and berries, with a nice leathery, earthy, mushroom note on the finish.
Something English: Simsons Blanc de Blancs – £36.55, Strictlywine.co.uk Green apple, citrus and floral notes, with a slight hint of stone fruit and a nice, toasted brioche note as well as distinctive minerality.
Something Different: Hola! Barcelona Rosé – £10, Tesco A fun, easy drinking rosé with light red fruit flavours of strawberries, red cherry, and rose blossoms.
and fresh herbs, Pinot Grigio takes a more understated approach. It is lighter, and more delicate, offering subtle flavours of lemon, green apple and pear rather than the intense tropical and grassy notes associated with Sauvignon Blanc. For Pinot Grigio lovers wanting to explore further, Italy offers several excellent alternatives, including Soave, Gavi and Verdicchio, wines that maintain a fresh style while offering a little more personality. Elsewhere in Europe, drinkers who enjoy Pinot Grigio's crisp style may find an appealing alternative in Greece's mineral-driven Assyrtiko, Portugal's citrusy Arinto (also used in some Vinho Verde blends), or Sicily's more textured and aromatic Grillo.
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If you like Chardonnay, try… When it comes to Chardonnay, there are two broad styles with plenty of styles between them. The oaky Chardonnays found in Australia and the USA represent one end of the spectrum, while the fresher styles found in places such as the Mâcon-Villages of Burgundy the other. For the former, some oaked or richer Viogniers found in France, Chile or Australia or oaked Chenin Blanc from South Africa may be a good alternative. Or oaked Chardonnay fans could also consider a white Rioja from Spain or a Encruzado from Portugal. For the lighter unoaked styles, Limoux (France) is often under explored for Chardonnay, as is South Africa and even the UK. And other varieties that are worth considering by unoaked Chardonnay fans are Garnacha Blanca, Marsanne / Roussanne blends from Australia or Vermentino from Tuscany. If you like Prosecco and Champagne, try… When it comes to sparkling wines, we also have two very distinct styles – light and fruity as in the Prosecco style, and more complex and textured as is found in Champagne. Light and fruity alternatives include the likes of the Radacini Blanc de Noirs from Moldova or a Pignoletto Frizzante from Italy. Champagne alternatives include Crémant de Bourgogne from France, English sparkling wines, Cava Gran Reserva from Spain, Franciacorta from Italy or Cap Classique from South Africa. Look for examples with age if you want something closer to that hallmark Champagne profile. So, go explore! Next time you are shopping for wine, you might want to explore some alternatives. And don’t worry, if you are a red drinker, I’ll have some recommendations for you in Birmingham Living in the autumn. As always, whatever you are drinking, please do so 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
RUN FORREST, RUN! TO ECHO THE FAMOUS LINE FROM THE MOVIE FORREST GUMP, WE EXPLAIN WHY IT REALLY DOES PAY TO ‘RUN FOR YOUR LIFE’ e get it. It’s super difficult balancing the pressures and demands of everyday life with that crucial need to stay as fit as possible. Lob in the cost-of-living crisis and before you know it, you’re facing the prospect of descending into an unhealthy spiral. Well with the sun shining, and thankfully temperatures dropping slightly, perhaps it’s time to grab the (Bullring) bull by the horns and slot some running into your weekly routine.
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TOTAL WORK OUT Simply put, running will give you a total body workout, improving loads of aspects of your health without putting a huge strain on either your time or your wallet. It’s a great way to lose weight as running requires a
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lot of fuel. In fact, the average person can burn as much as nearly 500 calories on a 40-minute run – even more if you throw in a few slopes or some interval training. It’s no big surprise that running is a fantastic workout for all aspects of your legs, with your inner and outer thighs, quads and hamstrings all being used. However, it’s also great for your core strength as those deep muscles play important roles stabilising your spine and transferring power between your swinging arms and legs. As well as building muscle strength, regular running helps to improve and maintain the density or strength of your bones, reducing your risk of developing osteoporosis, as well as reducing joint problems and lowering blood pressure.
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HOW DOES RUNNING COMPARE? So, it’s great for your health but there are so many other reasons why running is such a cracking way to stay fit – here are just a few: I You can do it anywhere, with as much or as little as your time and fitness levels allow. I All you need is a good pair of trainers! There’s no need for expensive equipment or the latest fashionable gym kit. I You don’t have to rely on others, but at the same time it’s so easy to find somebody like-minded who you can buddy up with. I You can do it at any time, although there’s nothing quite like an early morning run to kickstart the day or an early evening session to clear your head. I You can set your own challenges depending on how you feel: sprint to the first lamppost, then jog to the next, sprint to the one after, and so on. POINTS TO REMEMBER If you’re new to running or you’ve been out of the game for a while, please remember a few important points to keep safe, healthy and committed. I Warm up with just a few stretches and warm down with a few more.
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I If you are going to train outside wear highly visible clothing such as reflective bands, lights and tell somebody what route you are going to take. I Obviously, your body should be hydrated at all times, but it’s particularly important to make sure you’re hydrated before and during exercise. I Remember to breathe properly. The more you can relax, the more you can move the breathing to the diaphragm. Trying to breathe every four, six, or even eight steps can help to both distract and relax. I Try to maintain a good posture so you’re engaging the stomach and glutes. Imagine starring in your own run film and run the way you think you would want to see yourself running. I Distract yourself by running to music or listening to an audiobook or podcast. Studies have shown just how beneficial this can be. I Start off gently, don’t go too hard to begin with. If you’ve never run before, you will hate it and so won’t do it again. An average beginner’s pace is around 13 minutes per mile, but if you find that too hard or not challenging enough, simply adjust your pace and you’ll soon get a feel for what your body can do. I If you get injured rest for a few days, use ice if necessary and get medical help if the injury persists. But most of all, keep smiling and enjoy the ride! I
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AW26 EDIT WE’RE NOT SAYING SUMMER’S LONG GONE, BUT WE’RE LOOKING AHEAD TO AW26 WITH A GIANVITO ROSSI BOOTED SPRING IN OUR STEP
COOL COMBO
Clothing from Monsoon
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STYLE ACCESSORY HEAVEN
SUPER CHIC
Dries Van Noten chiffon embellished scarf £470, Harvey Nichols
Clothing from M&S
STRONG SILHOUETTE
Isla jacket £90, Joe Browns
JACKET IN
Bryony quilted jacket £80, FatFace
CUTE AS A BUTTON
Ralph Lauren printed floral quilted jacket £495, Harvey Nichols
WOVEN WONDER
Bronze woven bag £129, Dune
hile we’ve relished floating around in a kaftan for most of the summer, we’re ready to embrace the structure and style that cooler temperatures allow. AW26 catwalks veered from nonchalant slouchy denim and statement knits to Art Deco inspired intricate embroidery and strong silhouettes. One of our highlights was Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons who sent a troupe of models down the catwalk wearing outfits that transformed in real time for the ultimate in versatile dressing. We’ve trawled the rails, so you don’t have to,
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FLOWER POWER
Barbour X Farm Rio jacket £399, Barbour
bringing you a collection of brilliant AW26 pieces that will see you through this season with a swagger. JACKET TIME We’ve not worn a jacket for months and this season we’re going all in. Shapes are either cinched at the waist with a bit of structure, a la Vivienne Westwood, adorned with rich patterns and textures or funnel necked and short. Ralph Lauren and FatFace at either end of the spectrum have nailed a patterned quilted jacket. As you’d expect the RL version feels a bit more luxe with heightened
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STYLE
CLASSIC ARGYLE
Blue argyle knit £35, Very
PUFF SLEEVE
Puff sleeve knit £35, Very
CRIMSON CARDI
Red Trinity cardigan £27.50, F&F
THINK PINK
No Grit No Pearl knit £180 Black & Beech
EARTHY TONES
LAID BACK
Allotment cardigan £75, FatFace
Landscape jumper £65, FatFace
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STYLE
attention to detail like cute buttons, but the FatFace Bryony jacket is top of the pile at a comparable price point in our book. You also can’t move without seeing a funnel neck jacket. There’s denim at Matalan, suedette at M&S and polka dots at New Look – all great high street options that’ll add a bit of edge to your outfit without breaking the bank. Knitwear is colourful and/or patterned with a nod to playfulness. Think classic argyle in unexpected colours, graphic landscape designs, patterned puff sleeves, zip details and literal statements like the No Grit No Pearl jumper at Black & Beech.
SLOUCHY FIT
Double denim from Matalan
ART OF LAYERING Taking a lead from Miuccia Prada, the art of layering is achievable and there are plenty of options to take you from boardroom to bar. Check out Alice + Olivia’s stunning slip tops, ideal under a jacket or knit for the office yet perfect worn alone after dark. Equally Reformation’s Carolina polka dot midi skirt can be effortlessly dressed up or down, while Issey Miyake’s sculpted maxi skirt demands to be taken seriously at work yet it’s easily given a glam twist with the addition of silk camisole for evening. HIGH STYLE Accessories are works of art such as the beaded bulb handbag at JW Anderson and the Nature satin scarf bag at Farm Rio. And if you’re in the market for a chiffon embellished scarf (why wouldn’t you be?) head to Dries Van Noten where all you dreams will have come true. There’s also a nifty woven bag at Dune which has a touch of Dragon Diffusion about it at a snip of the price. I
DENIM DAYS
Bea jacket £175, Beyond Nine
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MID WASH
Denim utility jacket £38, Matalan
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STYLE OUT OUT
Alice + Olivia Julietta lace and satin slip top £325, Harvey Nichols
EFFORTLESS STYLE
Green collar button through top £55, Oliver Bonas
MAXIMUM IMPACT
Issey Miyake sculpted paper blend maxi skirt £690, Harvey Nichols
BOARDROOM TO BAR
Reformation Carolina polka dot silk charmeuse skirt midi skirt £248, Selfridges
TOP SPOTS
Polka dot bubble hem jacket £35.99, New Look
WORK OF ART
Farm Rio Nature medium satin scarf bag £120, Selfridges
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EMBELLISH TO THE MAX
JW Anderson small beaded bulb embellished bag £510, Selfridges
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STYLE FAB FUNNEL
Suedette funnel neck jacket £40, M&S
HIGH NECK
Funnel neck jacket £45, F&F
BELT UP
Off-white belted jacket £45.99, New Look
SMART CASUAL
Clothing from Matalan
SIDE BELT
Trousers £35, Very
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BEAUTY
BEAUTY REVIEW
YOU KNOW BY NOW THAT OUR LOVE FOR THE
SELFRIDGES BEAUTY HALL KNOWS NO BOUNDS AND LAST MONTH, IT GOT EVEN BETTER
fter a successful launch into Selfridges in London, award-winning nail care brand, Bio Sculpture has arrived in Birmingham and I was kindly treated to a manicure at the freshly opened concession. It’s worth noting that I don’t have regular manicures choosing to keep it natural with nourishing products at home, so this was my first foray into the world of gels. I took a bit of persuading as gels are damaging, right? Wrong! Bio Sculpture has developed kinder and more prescriptive products that don’t ravage your nails, in fact nourish them instead. In addition, the products are manufactured ethically in a facility in South Africa with impressive eco credentials, so I felt reassured taking the leap. As the concession is at the back of the beauty hall and the signage is low down you might need to seek it out. The new salon offers manicures including classic gel, builder gel and nail art services as well as nail health consultations and personalised prescriptive treatments. I highly recommend the Bio
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NAILED IT For a full treatment list visit www.biosculpture.co.uk Either book online or call the beauty concierge at Selfridges on 0121 600 6969.
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Sculpture Repair Drops (£15.50) which nourish the nails and cuticles as well as the surrounding skin. I’ve been using it daily on my fingers and toes and it’s fantastic. While I’m a natural kind of girl and plumped for a nude Blossom shade (pictured), the range of colours is impressive. The brand’s UK CEO Claire was having a manicure next to me in a popping pink shade that looked incredible and if you’re into something really fun, check out the Bio Sculpture Instagram account for some stunning examples of the nail art on offer. The appointment lasted just over an hour and was a no fuss affair. Although it was friendly, the treatment and the space felt practical and professional rather than pampering which was fine by me. My technician was fantastic and knew her stuff. She’s been training the Selfridges team so she’s really on her game. The finish is undeniably smooth with an incredible sheen that has lasted for two weeks so far and is still looking fresh. It can last three to four weeks which is unachievable at home or even with a standard salon manicure. I’m really impressed and having avoided gels for years, I’ll be rebooking. There wasn’t space in the beauty hall for Bio Sculpture to include their pedicure treatments which is a shame as I’d be keen to get my toes done too. Perhaps that will change if the concession proves popular. Fingers (and toes) crossed. I
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STYLE FOR MEN
MIX IT UP FROM POWER COATS AND OVERSIZED TAILORING TO LAYERING AND TEXTURE, AW26 IS AN ECLECTIC BAG OF TRICKS TO TAKE INSPIRATION FROM
COOL LAYERING Tartan shower-proof blouson jacket £219, Barbour
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STYLE FOR MEN
BROAD SHOULDERS The Row Nivo belted trench £4,990, Selfridges
LOOSE FIT Textures jacket £1,090, Issey Mikaye
TOP TEXTURE Mora wool jumper £125, Finisterre
W26 catwalks showcased a plethora of trends – some will no doubt be Marmite, so we’ve hand-picked a few pieces from the most wearable trends that will be excellent additions to your wardrobe as the temperature drops. First up, is the power coat. Think long, swishy wool coats with details like big shoulder pads or fancy buttons. Quality versions aren’t cheap, but they will stand the test of time and never go out of style. The Nivo trench from The Row (pictured) is quite the investment but is genuinely timeless. Layering is the ideal autumn get-up allowing for versatility and fluctuations in temperature. A tee under a thin sweater under a jacket makes for a relaxed off duty vibe that works every time. The Barbour Lavensdale jumper is perfect for layering over a tee. Texturally, autumn comes into its own. On the catwalk texture replaced pattern as a source of interest where shearling, distressed leather and heavy knitwear all reigned. The All Saints leather jacket (pictured) is a great example and not too pricey for leather. Oversized tailoring requires confidence, but can look super chic. Head to Issey Miyake for the grey loose fitting jacket (pictured) or Cos for the brand’s oversized belted barrel leg trousers (pictured) that would be our number one purchase this season. They go with everything and provide the oversized cool vibe we’re after. I
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DISTRESSED TO IMPRESS All Saints Alkan distressed leather jacket £439, Selfridges
SLOUCHY PANTS Belted denim relaxed fit barrel leg trousers £119, Cos
MAKE LIKE MAVERICK Shearling wool aviator jacket £639, Sandro
BAGGY TROUSERS Brown wide fit trousers £639, Braghier
CLASSIC KNIT Lavensdale half zip jumper £119, Barbour
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LIGHT IDEAS
LIGHTING IS THE DESIGN FEATURE CAPABLE OF CHANGING THE MOOD OF YOUR HOME AT THE FLICK OF A SWITCH, SO LET’S GET IT RIGHT
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NEUTRAL TONES Brandon table lamp £99, Cult Furniture
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HOMES
MAGIC TRIO Coolie white Hay pendants £255, Fritz Fryer
he huge choice of lighting options available can be bit overwhelming, so it’s worth doing your homework and shopping around. First decide what the space you’re looking to illuminate will be used for. Often that isn’t straight forward given many spaces in the home are likely to be multi-use.
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Your kitchen probably doubles as an entertaining space, your dining room might become your office by day, you might want your bathroom to feel like a dimly lit spa but also bright enough to shave, etc. It goes on. The dimmer switch could be your friend in lots of scenarios, but you’ve also access to a plethora of options that can enrich the feel of your home. Loosely, there are three types of lighting to consider – background or general lighting, task lighting and accent lighting. Generally, a combination of all three is the most effective and most versatile. The more light sources you have, the more versatile the space is provided they’re controlled separately.
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VERSATILITY IS KEY The quickest and probably cheapest way to change up the mood is through lamps. Carefully placed they can direct pools of light to create the vibe you’re craving from dramatic to a soft glow. Using layered lighting by combining fixtures with lamps creates a warm welcoming and crucially adaptable space. The introduction of cordless chargeable lamps opens up the idea of versatility moving light around wherever you’d like it without the hassle of adding or moving plug sockets. We’re also impressed by candle warmers. Now we’re all aware of the toxins associate with burning candles, a warmer achieves the same scent around the home without the need to burn them plus they double as gorgeous lamps. Pendants are a great way to add interest as the actual fittings look striking as well as adding a light source. Clumped together or in a line above a table or island works particularly well. Also, if you’ve the
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ceiling height, consider a classic showstopping chandelier that’ll never go out of style.
OLD SCHOOL Whatever your style, we’re spoilt for choice in Birmingham. For minimalist and modern head to Minima and for cool Scandi style check out BoConcept at Cookes. Lee Longlands has an impressive selection of both modern and traditional while Edgbaston’s Neptune store provides an old school country house vibe. It’s hard to visualise lighting from an image online so go out and shop. Viewing in person will give you an accurate vision of how lighting will look in situ.
NOT ALL BULBS ARE EQUAL Once you’ve nailed the look, consider energy consumption and eco credentials. Check out voice activated, motion sensor lighting and automated systems to limit waste. Energy saving bulbs are more expensive than your average bulb, but they’re free from mercury vapour, use 90 per cent less energy and last around 100,000 hours, so they’re worth a look. Also, choose the right shape of bulb. It sounds silly but different shapes can provide a different spread and angle of light, so don’t rush it – not all bulbs are equal. We’ve picked out some excellent lighting options to get you started plus we’ve highlighted 10 top table lamps over on page 46. I
MARBLE ARCH Furniture and lamp from M&S
CLEAN LINES Clear Wellington pendant light £295, Fritz Fryer
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HOMES
PERIOD DRAMA Furniture and Regency pendant from Neptune
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HOMES
MINIMUM FUSS Furniture and lighting from Nest
RETRO TWIST Lampshades from Habitat
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HOMES
TOP SPOTS Furniture and lamps from Oliver Bonas
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HOMES
DANISH DESIGN Dawn table lamp £499, BoConcept now at Cookes, Erdington
RIGHT STRIPES Suzie striped woven lamp £35, Dunelm
FLOWER POWER Blue floral lamp £24.99, HomeSense
CUTE CLOCHE Habitat X Morris & Co table lamp £45, Habitat
CLASSIC STYLE Large Chalford lamp in natural oak £229, Neptune
FINISHING TOUCHES
DISCO DIVA Gold disco mushroom lamp £29.99, HomeSense
WHETHER YOUR HOME IS ULTRA MODERN OR CHOCK FULL OF RUSTIC CHARM, WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED. CHECK OUT OUR PICK OF TOP TABLE LAMPS TO BRIGHTEN YOUR ROOM AND INJECT SOME ADDED VA-VA-VOOM SCALLOP SHAPE Wicker table lamp £90, M&S
MODERN PHENOMENON Brandon table lamp £99, Cult Furniture
MUTED TONES Lola pink and brown striped lamp £69 Oliver Bonas
LESS IS MORE Flos IC high table lamp £470, Minima
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GARDENING
From the Potting Bench with Adam
WARM AFTERNOONS, GOLDEN EVENINGS, BUT WITH AUTUMN WAITING IN THE WINGS. WELCOME TO SEPTEMBER IN THE GARDEN, AND ADAM KIRTLAND’S TO-DO LIST OF FIVE KEY JOBS FOR THE MONTH AHEAD
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eptember is a month of gentle transition in the garden. Summer is reluctant to leave completely, often treating us to warm afternoons and golden evenings, yet there is no escaping the subtle signs that autumn is waiting in the wings. The pace begins to slow, harvests continue in abundance and there is a welcome sense of satisfaction as the season starts to reward all those months of careful tending. September gardening is about making the most of what is still growing while quietly preparing for what comes next. Here are five timely September jobs to help your garden glide gracefully into autumn.
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Keep Harvesting the Good Stuff September is one of the most generous months in the kitchen garden with tomatoes, beans, courgettes, apples and late summer crops all ready for picking. Harvest little and often to keep plants productive, and do not let oversized vegetables linger for too long unless you fancy a marrow the size of a small canoe. There is something wonderfully rewarding about gathering fresh produce on a crisp morning, especially when dinner has travelled no further than the bottom of the garden. Plant Spring Bulbs It may feel slightly unfair to be thinking about next spring while summer flowers are still putting on a show, but September is the perfect time to plant daffodils, crocuses and other spring flowering bulbs. Choose sunny spots, plant at the correct depth and imagine the welcome burst of colour they will bring after winter. Gardening has always rewarded those who think ahead, even if it sometimes requires more patience than we would ideally like. Don’t forget, wait until at least the end of October/start of November to get your tulips in – planting too early, in warm soil can run the risk of them getting a fungal disease called tulip fire. Refresh Tired Pots and Baskets By now, containers and hanging baskets may be
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looking as though they have enjoyed one garden party too many. Remove faded summer bedding, trim back anything still performing well and consider introducing autumn colour with hardy plants that will carry displays through the cooler months. A little refresh keeps the garden looking cheerful long after the peak of summer has passed. Give the Lawn Some Attention After the stresses of summer, September is one of the best months to help your lawn recover. Scarify if needed, aerate compacted areas and overseed any bare patches while the soil is still warm enough for good germination. Regular mowing can continue, although growth will begin to slow as the weeks pass. A little care now helps ensure a greener, healthier lawn next year, with rather less muttering every time you spot another patch of moss. Take Cuttings for Free Plants September is an excellent month for taking cuttings from favourites such as penstemons, salvias and fuchsias. It is an easy way to create new plants for next year, replace anything that struggles through winter or simply share with friends who conveniently admire your garden. There is a particular satisfaction in growing something for free, especially when it feels like you've quietly outsmarted the garden centre. September has a quieter confidence than the lively months before it. By harvesting generously, planting thoughtfully and preparing for the changing season, you give your garden the best possible start for the months ahead while still enjoying everything it has to offer today. After all, gardening is never really about one season at a time, but about looking ahead while appreciating exactly where you are. 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
ANYA KALSI
DURING HER RECENT EXHIBITION IN THE JEWELLERY QUARTER, WE SPOKE WITH THE AWARD-WINNING LOCAL ARTIST WHO’S GONE FROM VOLUNTEERING AT THE HERBERT IN COVENTRY TO EMBARKING ON A MASTER OF FINE ART (MFA) AT OXFORD UNIVERSITY nya Kalsi knew she wanted to do a master’s degree, but didn’t think she was good enough to go to Oxford University until her supportive sister gave her the nudge she needed to apply. She was successful and Anya will shortly be heading to Oxford’s Ruskin School of Art with a clutch of awards and accolades, including the prestigious Erna Plachte Award from the university – one of only three awarded each year to Oxford’s top MFA offer holders. It’s been a whirlwind couple of years for Anya who graduated from Lancaster University with a first class honours degree and was awarded the Dean’s art prize. She was winner of the Rugby Open in 2024 and received the Derwent Young Artist Award in 2026 for Echoes of Entanglement which was exhibited at the OXO Gallery in London. One of Anya’s goals has
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always been to exhibit in London and the Derwent Art Prize allowed her to do that. Anya has also secured mentorship and investment from the brilliant Punch Records who are doing incredible things for creatives across the city. They have been excellent at supporting Anya in her journey to becoming a financially viable artist. After writing a proposal and going through an interview process, Anya secured support from Punch of which she says: “They’ve supported me through opportunities and funding. Not many people are doing that. They’ve really helped guide me.” GOING SOLO If you were lucky enough to catch Anya’s solo exhibition titled Emerging Perspectives at The Hive, you’ll be familiar with her fluid style. She explores
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Anya says she’s always challenging herself and learning, trying not to overthink things and creating work that’s meaningful for her and intriguing for the viewer. Inspiration comes from everyday walks, things and people – nothing out of the ordinary. It starts with macro photography and Anya is excited to get to Oxford from that point of view. She says: “Being in Oxford surrounded by green space will be pretty important for that.”
abstraction through process, observation and material experimentation. She explains: “Working across drawing, oil painting and installation I use macro OPENED DOORS WORLD PREMIERE: Amy, front right, with NYT Rep Company members performing Dracula. Pictured by Manuel Harlan photography to transform overlooked patterns and Winning awards has meant a lot to Anya. Rather intricate structures into layered abstract compositions than just being nice to have they have pushed her that move between drawing, painterly surfaces and to do even better and opened doors. She’s active spatial form.” and engaged, jumping on opportunities and open The exhibition brought together works that Anya calls. That enthusiasm and drive teamed with hoped would engage audiences closely with texture, obvious talent and Punch in the background is rhythm and detail. She says her work ‘balances control getting Anya noticed. Her ultimate goal is to be an with spontaneity inviting viewers into a space of artist, to be financially stable and have a solo curiosity rather than fixed interpretation’. All this exhibition at the Saatchi Gallery and we don’t while currently living at home with mum and dad and doubt it for a second. I working from a small space in the garage. Anya says the larger pieces are challenging and despite her FOLLOW ALONG parents being very supportive, there are limits to the To keep up with Anya’s work follow her on Instagram @kalsianya mess that comes with being an artist!
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ALL-WEATHER LEARNING INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIP Bromsgrove School has formed a new partnership with the Meghe Group in India to open two innovative schools, beginning with a flagship campus in Pune scheduled to welcome its first students in September 2027. The collaboration brings together two highly respected educational institutions to offer families a choice of both the Indian curriculum and an international curriculum, delivered with the shared values of academic ambition, global outlook, and holistic development. The agreement was assisted by Vipul Bhargava and the team from Novistra Capital.
Local housebuilders Barratt and David Wilson Homes donated £1,000 to Hill Farm Primary School, Coventry to help erect a new shelter in its outdoor learning area. The forest school at Hill Farm Primary gives pupils regular opportunities to engage with nature while developing key life skills through hands-on activities beyond the classroom. Following installation of the shelter, the school is launching a new Roots for Life curriculum, designed to equip pupils with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a greener, more sustainable future.
BOOKS FOR BRUM
SCHOOL REPORT NEW NURSERY AT PEGASUS
Pegasus Primary School has opened its doors to younger children. The school has been awarded a £150,000 grant to build a new nursery, providing 20 places for two-year-olds and a further 20 places for three and four-year-olds at a new pre-school, before they start at the primary school in Reception. By introducing the nursery, Pegasus aims to provide a seamless educational journey for children, reducing the number of transitions they experience when joining full time school in Reception.
Thousands more children across Birmingham will gain access to books thanks to a major expansion by the Children’s Book Project, which has opened a regional warehouse at TEP Birmingham in Tyseley. The new base will allow the charity to support more than 200 schools and community groups by redistributing highquality, pre-loved children’s books that might otherwise have gone to waste. The Project believes every child should have the opportunity to own books and develop a lifelong love of reading. It collects donations of pre-loved books from families and publishers before sorting, curating and distributing them.
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SHOUT OUT TO YUSUIF
SUPPORTING CAREERS IN SCIENCE More than 200 children aged 11 to 16 were inspired by games developers, vehicle engineers and technology innovators at this year’s STEM Week designed and led by the British Motor Museum. Talks and activities were delivered by local companies, including Playground Games, Lotus Cars and WMG Academy for Young Engineers. Claire Broader, the museum’s learning and engagement officer, said: “We brought together some inspirational examples from world-leading local businesses. These include designing supercars, developing electric vehicle technologies and programming a world-leading driving game.”
Yusuif Ahmed, a year 11 student at Lift Four Dwellings Secondary, Birmingham, has secured a place on a prestigious programme run by the independent John Locke Institute. As well as completing a series of questions assessing reasoning, problem-solving and maths, followed by an in-depth panel interview, Yusuif was asked to choose a topic to discuss and took part in a debate on international foreign aid. Winning the place means Yusuif takes part in a five-day residential programme in Cambridge.
VICTORY FOR VIRTUAL DECISIONS Virtual Decisions, a Birmingham-based immersive technology company, has been recognised with the Midlands Education Award for Innovation for its VR-based programmes addressing knife crime, anti-social behaviour (ASB) and county lines exploitation in schools and youth justice settings across the region. The company’s programmes use virtual reality to place young people in realistic, decision-based scenarios designed around trauma-informed principles – creating experiences that are engaging and safe without being retraumatising. They are currently being delivered in schools, pupil referral units and youth justice settings, reaching an estimated 80,000 to 100,000 young people since 2020.
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COMPANY TO WATCH
THE WARWICKSHIRE GIN COMPANY FROM A CAREER CHANGE BORN OUT OF NECESSITY RATHER THAN FRIVOLITY, DAVID BLICK HAS CREATED SOMETHING VERY SPECIAL AT THE WARWICKSHIRE GIN COMPANY. AND WHILE IT’S NOT WITHOUT ITS CHALLENGES, HE’S BUILDING A BUSINESS THAT’S ADAPTABLE AND AGILE IN A MARKET THAT’S BEING CONSISTENTLY SQUEEZED fter working in logistics for decades on a franchisee basis, a compulsory purchase by the franchisor resulted in a big shift for David. His next steps were uncertain but with a love of history and a recent penchant for gin, a chance meeting with a distiller in Wales set him on a very different path. Collaborating with the Welsh distiller, David initially came up with a gin base he was happy with and from there he started to play around with the extra stuff such as flavour profiles to reflect the history of Warwickshire. He explains: “All of our drinks are inspired by historical events in Warwickshire. The gin that got us started was the wonderful story of Sam Lockhart and his elephants he had living with him in Leamington. As they were from Sri Lanka we used
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first thing we made in the distillery was six-and-ahalf litres of hand sanitiser! I’ve just paid back my Covid Bounce Back loan but I’m still waiting for the bounce!” The company now creates eight gins, three rums and a vodka that have all scooped national and international awards, but along the way David realised he couldn’t just rely on product sales to make it work so he pivoted into hospitality, launching gin tasting experiences in the distillery five years ago. The experiences in the distillery consistently fill TripAdvisor’s top spot, making it the number one thing to do in Leamington Spa thanks to five-star reviews from visitors. Internationally the experiences have earned a Travellers Choice Award which puts the Warwickshire distillery in the top 10 per cent of businesses listed in the world based on reviews. David says: “I’m really chuffed with the TripAdvisor stuff. That’s only happened through strangers coming to us, having a cracking night and taking the time to write about it. We get people from all over the world. We’ve a map in the distillery where we mark all the places people who’ve visited are from. There’s Peru, Canada, India and Cape Verde to name a few.”
flavours like cinnamon chilli and ginger in the gin and so our Leamington on Parade Gin was born.” Each gin has its story. For instance, the company’s Pelota Dry Gin was inspired by a Spanish merchant named Juan Augurio Perera, who invented lawn tennis and opened the world’s first Lawn Tennis Club in Leamington in 1873. You get the gist, there’s a local yet global angle. ROLL OF THE DICE Initially the Welsh distillery made the gin and David sold it, but then he decided to invest in his own distillery and produce it locally. It’s distilled using a small batch method with a traditional copper pot. David says: “It was a massive roll of the dice – all or nothing really. Then Covid hit and the
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ON THE ROAD This year David has launched five new gins and a new tasting experience. Then there’s the massive mobile bar, Lockhart’s Bar named after Sam Lockhart. The seven-and-a-half metre mobile bar has nine taps and is ideal for events. David wanted it to be more than transactional, so rather than just queuing and getting a drink the bar is designed so that customers step into it. Selling to trade isn’t something that David wants to get into. He says there’s no money to be made being stocked in supermarkets or pubs. He explains: “I grew up in a pub and it used to be packed. It was right by the gas board and the workers would come in for two or three pints at lunch time then go back to work – bit worrying but still! People aren’t going to pubs in the same way now. It’s expensive. I think the way to go is independent breweries with tap
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rooms like Attic Brew for instance. I can see how that works but for ordinary pubs competing with Sainsbury’s prices and coping with VAT and PAYE it’s a perfect storm. Cutting VAT on energy won’t make a difference – it’s just shuffling numbers.” CUSTOM MADE The company has however branched out into local events and customised products such as a tennis tournament at Edgbaston Priory Club where they supplied 300 bottles for guests. They also supply miniatures to Hotel Indigo for their VIP guests and have worked with Mallory Court among others. Corporate gifting is something that stalled last year due to changes to the Budget but is a potential growth area. David says: “The Budget was pushed back to November last year so businesses stopped
GEN UP ON WARWICKSHIRE GIN For more information visit https://warwickshiregincompany.co.uk/
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planning ahead until they knew where they stood, meaning that Christmas corporate gifting was a nonstarter. Hopefully this year that will be better.” UNSTOPPABLE Promotion is largely done through social media but the best conversion rate comes from the company’s substantial e-mail list of 7,000 customers. David says: “I’ll send an e-mail out and not long after, you can literally see the money coming in.” While the economic climate is tough, David’s inventiveness and incredible work ethic – he currently is the business with some ad hoc help from his daughter and mates –means he’s unstoppable. He says: “Gin distilleries have come and gone and if I wasn’t doing the experiences I’d be knackered. The future is to keep going, get the bar out and about more. I’ve got some new gins that I’m really pleased with and some fresh designer branding.” I
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BUSINESS
BELLA’S BIG TREAT A Birmingham entrepreneur created a parttime dog treat business after her own pet suffered a near-death experience. Shanice Lindo-McIntosh set up Bella Loves after her French Bulldog, Bella, became paralysed at two-years-old. For six months, Bella underwent weekly sessions, and Shanice saw how the treats she used to motivate Bella during treatment played a crucial role in her eventual recovery. She was helped in her business journey by support from the King’s Trust.
AFRICAN LAUNCH
BUSINESS
A Coventry-based digital media agency is launching a new Africa division. The Herd is planning global expansion through The Herd Africa, a new sub brand that will support organisations looking to harness digital, data and technology to grow across high potential markets. Paul Scanlon, CEO of The Herd, said: “Africa presents a major opportunity for digitally ambitious businesses. This is a big step for us and one that reflects both our ambition and our belief in the scale of opportunity across the continent.”
TOUR DE TOUCHWOOD Inspired by the famous Tour de France, a Midlands law firm came up with its own unique version – the Tour de Touchwood! Davison Law held the 24-hour indoor charity cycling challenge in Solihull’s Touchwood shopping centre with relay teams pedalling the full 3,333-kilometre route of this year's Tour de France on six static bikes. Cash was raised for Cure Leukaemia. The firm is a founding Club 10 member of Cure Leukaemia, committing at least £10,000 annually to support the charity's vital work. TOUR DE FORCE: Davisons Law senior associate Mike Anson, equity director Darryl Wilkes, and Jim Varnish
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NEWS GUNNING FOR GROWTH One of Britain’s most historic makers of fine guns, rifles and sporting goods is embarking on a new chapter by expanding its Birmingham leather goods workshop to increase production capacity. Westley Richards is making the move after investing in new machinery. “This investment allows us to grow the leather workshop in Birmingham while preserving the character and authenticity that make these pieces truly distinctive,” said creative director Stephen Humphries. Westley Richards was founded in Birmingham in 1812 and is the last remaining large-scale manufacturer near the original Gun Quarter.
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BUSINESS
FINANCE MOVES
A Midlands accountancy firm has announced a series of promotions as it continues to invest in developing talent. HB&O, which has offices in Birmingham, Coventry and Leamington, promoted members of staff across a range of grades. They include two new seniors within the audit and accounts team, Sophie Butteriss and Khari George, while Puja Jain advanced to a top tier client manager and Emma Potter progressed to a second tier client manager.
INCA TRAIL TREK Birmingham Hospice is to hold its first-ever overseas fund-raising event – the Inca Trail Trek. The event, in collaboration with Global Adventure Challenges, will take place from 29 October to 7 November 2027, and see participants take on one of the world’s top 10 trekking trails, and explore the modern wonder of the world that is Machu Picchu. Up to 40 Birmingham Hospice trekkers will reach an altitude of over 4,200m, covering sub-tropical forests as well as the snowy peaks of the Andes Mountains.
WELCOME SAM! ROCKING UP N BRUM
Birmingham property consultancy Johnson Fellows has appointed Sam Gifford as an associate partner. Sam, pictured right, brings more than 14 years of experience in commercial property management across a range of national property portfolios. He has previously held senior positions with leading property consultancies, and has experience managing complex property portfolios on behalf of asset managers, landlords and occupiers. Previous clients include Adapt Real Estate, Mileway Real Estate and M7 Real Estate.
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HONOURED DUO
Policy expert and race equality advocate L'myah Sherae and the former deputy leader of Birmingham City Council, Sharon Thompson have received honorary doctorates from Aston University. L’myah, pictured, founder and director of anti-racist organisation Enact Equality, was honoured in recognition of her contribution to racial equality and justice. Sharon, who also served as the first female deputy mayor of the West Midlands from 2024 to 2026, was recognised for her record across local government, housing and the charitable sector.
An US online music and entertainment network has opened its first European studio in Birmingham. Rockefellas TV, based in Los Angeles, unveiled its new B-1 Studios in the Jewellery Quarter. The network broadcasts a range of different programmes globally, including chat shows, interviews, live performances and documentaries. The station’s founder Alex Garcia asked Birmingham-born Brad Henshaw to launch his new Brad’s Basement TV show at the studio – and his first guest was Jim Simpson, Black Sabbath’s original manager.
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BUSINESS
SPITFIRE FUND LIFTS OFF
West Midlands charities, clubs and community organisations are being invited to apply for funding through the new Spitfire Homes Community Fund, launched as part of the award-winning homebuilder’s 15th anniversary celebrations. The fund makes £15,000 available to support projects, activities and initiatives that make a positive impact within local communities. More information, including eligibility criteria and details on how to apply, can be found at: https://spitfirehomes.co.uk/community-fund/
ON TOP OF THE WORLD Stratford’s Shakespeare Distillery is celebrating its biggest-ever international success after its Jester Rum Cask Strength Sherry
Expression was crowned World’s Best at the World Rum Awards. Crafted from the distillery's award-winning Jester White Rum, the Expression spent five years maturing in ex-Bourbon and Oloroso Sherry casks before being bottled at natural cask strength. Director Simon Picken said: “To be named World’s Best is an achievement we’re immensely proud of and one that reflects the passion, patience and craftsmanship that goes into every bottle we produce.”
CENTRE SIGNS ON
Leading signage specialists FASTSIGNS UK is expanding with a new centre in Solihull. Led by local entrepreneur Farooq Wani its arrival marks the 24th centre in the firm’s UK network and the second to open in the West Midlands. Located on the Kings Norton Trading Estate, the state-of-the-art production facility is designed to support the education, healthcare, construction and commercial sectors across Solihull, South Birmingham, Redditch, Longbridge and Worcester.
CONNOR’S FLOWER POWERS
A Solihull entrepreneur who credits numerology with getting his life back on track, is believed to be the first in the UK to offer it as part of his landscape gardening service. Connor Healy has introduced the personalised garden mapping, also incorporating astrology and feng shui, which he claims is leaving clients feeling better about their gardens – despite some initial scepticism. The move was triggered by recent mental health battles for the 31year-old who runs Healy Garden Design.
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BUSINESS BITES CHARITY CHIEF
Midlands-based learning disability charity Lisieux Trust has appointed Dr Emma Hodges as its permanent chief executive. Emma had been interim chief executive at the charity since early June and will now lead the organisation into the future.
SKY HIGH
Pension Insurance Corporation, a specialist insurer of defined benefit pension funds, has celebrated the completion of its build-to-rent development, One Eastside, Birmingham. The 51-storey tower is the tallest building in the city at 150 metres high.
HILL CLIMBERS
Staff from property consultancy Fisher German’s Worcester, Hereford and Birmingham offices raised more than £1,200 for Acorns Children’s Hospice in a charity trek across the Malvern Hills’ End-to End Walk. The team covered 9.3 miles and conquered 17 summits in aid of the charity.
CHEF’S YOUTH BOOST A locally trained chef who returned to his roots to launch a community-based culinary school for young people has been recognised at this year’s Adult Learner Awards. Birmingham-born Adam Pickett enjoyed a successful career working in restaurants around the world and as a personal chef to famous footballers before coming home to open Bluebell Wood eatery in Chelmsley Wood. With support from University College Birmingham he set up Chelmsley Starters Culinary School at Bluebell Wood, passing on his passion for food to local youngsters through training courses.
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ACCOUNTANCY FIRM OPENS NEW OFFICES
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MHA continues expansion with move to wellness-focused space uests attended the launch of national accountancy and advisory firm MHA’s new 7,100 sq ft Birmingham office at 35 Newhall Street. A 75strong team has relocated into the newly renovated, wellnessfocused space as part of the business’s continued expansion across the Midlands. Chris Barlow, COO of MHA’s Midlands’ region and partner, said: “We’re committed to further sustainable growth in Birmingham and across the Midlands over the coming years. Our new office matches our ambitions and will allow us to do this.”I
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Tapas restaurant Baresca opens the doors of its newest eatery uch-loved neighbourhood tapas restaurant Baresca brought Barcelona vibes to Birmingham with the opening of its newest restaurant in Mere Green, Sutton Coldfield. The company’s third opening by the Perkins family continues its expansion across the Midlands, welcoming even more guests into the ever-growing Baresca family. Leaders from Sutton Coldfield businesses joined media and movers and shakers to enjoy cava, cerveza, sangria and tasty tapas against the backdrop of Barcelona Beats. I
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ing ON livWHAT’S
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WHAT: Lord of the Dance: 30th Anniversary WHEN: 28 September to 4 October WHERE: The Alexandra, atgtickets.com
WHAT: The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time WHEN: 5 to 19 September WHERE: Birmingham Rep, birmingham-rep.co.uk A gripping tale combines the intrigue of a whodunnit with a
The global phenomenon that redefined
powerful coming-of-age story in an
Irish dance marks a special anniversary
unforgettable theatrical event. Stars
with a milestone event that promises a
Strictly Come Dancing winner Joe
grand celebration of the production’s
McFadden and EastEnders
legacy that has captivated more than
favourite, Charlie Brooks.
60 million fans across the world.
WHAT: Michael Pinsky: The Final Bid WHEN: Now until 4 October WHERE: MAC Birmingham, macbirmingham.co.uk To highlight the need for sustainability, the First Floor Gallery
WHAT: Edgbaston Artisan Market WHEN: 12 September WHERE: Greenfield Crescent, Edgbaston, calthorpe.co.uk Birmingham's largest artisan market features independent businesses from across the Midlands showcasing the finest range of artisan food and drink, alongside handmade arts and crafts and farmers' market produce.
WHAT: Mrs Doubtfire the Musical WHEN: Now until 19 September WHERE: Birmingham Hippodrome, birminghamhippodrome.com
has been transformed into an interactive bidding platform and dynamic sculpture. Visitors bid on second-hand chairs, altering a chair’s position as it hangs from the gallery ceiling: the higher the bid, the higher the chair rises.
WHAT: Moseley Folk & Arts Festival WHEN: 4 to 6 September WHERE: Moseley, moseleyfolk.co.uk An immersive family-friendly festival that celebrates its 20th anniversary of exploring the very best of contemporary folk music, arts and crafts.
The hit comedy musical based on the beloved film comes to the Hippodrome, featuring all the iconic moments from the movie plus fabulous new songs and dazzling dance numbers.
WHAT: Freya Ridings WHEN: 22 September WHERE: Town Hall, bmusic.co.uk Her breakout single Lost Without You has been streamed nearly half-abillion times on Spotify alone, cementing Ridings as one of the UK’s most impressive vocal talents.
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WHAT’S ON WHAT: The Pussycat Dolls WHEN: 29 September WHERE: Utilita Arena Birmingham The pop supergroup is back! Celebrating the 20th anniversary of their debut album, the chart‑topping trio of Nicole, Kimberly and Ashley are in Brum with a brand‑new show and are being joined by special guest Lil’ Kim.
WHAT: As You Like It WHEN: From 26 September WHERE: RSC Theatre, rsc.org.uk Tony Award-winning
WHAT: An Evening with Richard Osman WHEN: 8 September WHERE: Symphony Hall, bmusic.co.uk
Jonathan Groff makes his RSC debut as Rosalind in Shakespeare’s most sweetnatured comedy, where love is love – no matter
Hear all about the life and work of
where it falls.
the producer, television presenter and author of the incredibly successful The Thursday Murder Club novels.
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 brand-new exhibition that pays tribute to the everyday road heroes from the 80’s and 90’s.
WHAT: Lines of Flight – Balraj Khanna WHEN: From 30 September WHERE: Ikon Gallery, ikon-gallery.org
WHAT: Heathers The Musical WHEN: 15 to 19 September WHERE: The Belgrade Theatre, belgrade.co.uk
WHAT: A Place in the Sun Live WHEN: 18 to 20 September WHERE: NEC Birmingham, aplaceinthesunevents.com
Welcome to Westerberg High, where
Explore thousands of properties from around the
more than 40 paintings made over six
popularity is a matter of life and death.
world and meet experts, including estate agents,
decades, exploring themes of
Based on the iconic movie, this is a
lawyers and relocation professionals, all ready to
migration, Partition, identity and
wickedly funny and deliciously dark musical.
help make your overseas move a reality.
belonging.
september 2026
Celebrating Khanna’s deep connection to Birmingham, this stunning exhibition brings together
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PERSON TO PERSON
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CLOSE WITHÁ
AMANDA CHALMERS
From being the first female editor in the 160-year history of the Stratford Herald to running her own multi-award-winning PR company, there’s never a dull moment for the head of Chalmers News PR agency in south Warwickshire – especially if there’s an Abba tribute band in town! BEEN THERE, DONE THAT My career journey went from trainee journalist working for free to 25 years later becoming the first female editor of the independent Stratford Herald in its 160-year history. With very little in the way of formal qualifications, I am proud of the drive and determination I have shown to work my way up through the ranks to achieve that pinnacle journalistic role – whilst also juggling being a mum-of-two. IT’S WHAT I DO Today, as public relations expert, I work with small businesses to help raise their profile, especially when it comes to the local and national press. My niche of working with SMEs and charities has evolved into something I am incredibly passionate about – and I celebrate each and every PR ‘win’ as if it’s my own because I see first-hand how stupidly hard they work and just how much it means. I never take for granted how lucky I am to love my day job as if it were my paid hobby. I wake up every morning raring to go (well, mostly!) and am always aghast at any hint of a suggestion that I might want to ramp down for retirement any time soon! BIGGEST SUCCESS Professionally, discovering an inner entrepreneur and launching my agency nearly eight years ago, has proved to be my most surprising achievement – and I’m incredibly proud to have been recognised with five national business awards in that time. The most recent – Innervision Influential Woman In Business and, at the end of last year, my business was listed among the Top Ten Businesses From Home in the UK Small Business Awards. On a personal level, my greatest
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achievement is raising two hardworking and ambitious young men who haven’t turned out half bad! BIGGEST LESSON LEARNED Don’t sweat the small stuff. And never apologise for being a perfectionist. Impeccably high standards are one of the things I most respect. WHAT I’D LIKE TO SEE To keep building on my business and continuing to be inspired by all the incredible entrepreneurs I come into contact with. We can all learn from each other. WHAT I LIKE ABOUT BRUM Hubby is a proud Brummie and I too love the city and its diversity. Although I don’t live there, I work with clients ‘across the border’ all the time and welcome the excuse to visit as much as possible – mainly frequenting its many theatres. DOWNTIME Theatre, theatre and more theatre! Preferably musicals, but really anything that’s live, including stand-up comedy and music gigs. And if I get a whiff of a good Abba tribute band, I am there quicker than you can say ‘platform boots!’ (Although my Lycra days are well and truly behind me!) FINALLY One of the most surprising things I’ve learned is how supportive the small business community can be. It’s collaboration over competition that works best. I https://chalmersnewspr.co.uk/
september 2026
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