December issue 2016 (issue 51)

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g n i liv December 2016

BGT’s

The Neales

Steve Denyer

CRACKING CHRISTMAS STYLE

101 GREAT GIFTS

CONNIE TALBOT

FESTIVE

FOOD FIZZ

&

CHILD STAR TURNS TEENAGE SENSATION

THE CHRISTMAS ISSUE

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EDITOR’S VIEW Food, sport, the arts, business – 2016 proves that no one does it better than Birmingham. And 2017 is already shaping up to be even bigger and more successful

hristmas is a time for giving, so what better way to celebrate than by Birmingham Living’s highlights of 2016? And what another awesome year it has been for our city. First up food. The region reinforced its status as the top foodie destination with Michelin stars being retained and added to. Our star chefs earned the recognition they so richly deserve with the top names becoming TV regulars.

Next sport. Birmingham hosted huge events like the tennis Davis Cup, athletics’ Diamond League as well as announcing the Birmingham Marathon in 2017 – an event which will rival the London Marathon.

Plus there’s the city’s decision to bid to host the Commonwealth Games.

Then the arts. No other city has the variety, quality and accessibility of our theatres, galleries and museums. Our festivals especially have become a huge and ever-growing attraction to visitors. (And, by the way, Birmingham is now the most visited city in the UK, outside the capital.) Just this month Symphony Hall, which hit its 25th anniversary earlier in the year, was named in the World Top 10 of all music venues. Bravo!

Last but not least, business. We’ve featured a host of brilliant Companies to Watch in the magazine this year – many of them being recognised with regional and national awards. It’s been a record year for Birmingham Airport with more passengers and flights than ever. Plus a great first year for our awesome Grand Central complex. The most important business endorsement came from HSBC which confirmed the bank’s commitment to the city for its new national HQ, bringing thousands of jobs.

So what’s missing? My wish for 2017 is a return to form of our top football clubs because that would strengthen further our image internationally.

Have a happy and great Christmas, one and all…

C

David Johns

”

Editor: David Johns david@brumliving.co.uk

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

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

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

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

SUBSCRIPTIONS: The subscription rate (post paid) is £24 for one year (12 issues).

Subscriptions 01905 771110 ISSN 2051-8560

Cover image: Connie Talbot

visit www.brumliving.co.uk @brum_living

december 2016

/bhamliving

When you have finished with this magazine please recycle it

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INSIDE

Highlights

12 16 20 26 30 42

Connie Talbot The Streetly child star who captivated Britain’s Got Talent is now 16 and growing places

The Neales In a BGT double, we talk to The Neales, a year on from their TV talent show success Yes Chef!

Richard Smyth of The Chequers at Crowle reveals a secret passion for turkey dinosaurs!

Best Festive Fizz Wine expert Rob Price reveals his corking alternatives to add extra sparkle this Christmas Christmas Style Special The hottest new looks that’ll make you the centre of attention this festive season The Big Gift Guide Everything for her, him and them in our hotlist of amazing present ideas from Brum

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CONTENTS

30

Best of the Rest

23 56 59 61 64 70 78 december 2016

Food & Drink Reviews of Turners at 69 and Rajdoot, plus news of the city’s new openings and offerings Motoring It’s from Barcelona… Sue Cooke drives SEAT’s first, and award-winning SUV, the Ateca Up Close With Record-breaking pastor, the Rt Rev Dr David Carr on football, renewal and his ‘shock’ OBE Young, Gifted and Brummie Mixing it with Birmingham’s very own World Top 10 cocktail-maker, James Bowker Spotlight on Business Company to Watch – Barberology, plus news and views from the business community Social Scene The pages that picture who’s been out and about networking in Birmingham this month Christmas Shows, Arts, Gigs and More What’s on, where and when – all you need to know about the festive entertainment scene

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NEWS

g n i v liTODAY

SANTAS ON THE RUN Hundreds of Santas are on their marks to run for charity as the Acorns Santa Run returns to Brum.

The race on Saturday 3 December at Cannon Hill Park sees families, friends and work colleagues run or stroll around the park to raise funds for local life limited or life threatened children.

The route includes a 5k race wave, a family 5k wave and a family 2k route (wheelchair and pushchair friendly). For more details contact events@acorns.org.uk or call 01564 825000

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

PASTOR’S OBE JOY

CITY SOUNDS

A pastor who founded the largest church in Solihull admits he was reduced to tears when he was told he had been awarded the OBE. “I was out walking the dog when my wife phoned to tell me,” said the Rt Rev Dr David Carr. “I was deeply moved by it.” Dr Carr started the Renewal Church in August 1972 with just four people. Today the congregation is 1,600. See Up Close With, page 59

An innovative outreach project has been launched to discover the sounds of Birmingham and then turn them into pieces of music to represent each district. The two-year ‘for-Wards’ programme will see composers, including hip-hop musician Juice Aleem (pictured), work with community groups. The aim is for communities to help to shape the project while raising awareness of the diverse cultures in Birmingham.

YOUNG CHEF OF THE YEAR Remember the name Frances Attwood. The rising star in the world of food and demi chef de partie at Simpsons, Edgbaston, has just won the title of Young Chef of the Year. Frances, 21, who joined Simpsons a year ago from an apprenticeship at Aston Villa, competed against 15 young UK chefs Dr Carr and his wife Molly at Buckingham Palace

to win the British Culinary Federation title, held at University College Birmingham.

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NEWS

GIRLS... LOVE THOSE LASHES!

BRUM IN FOCUS Stunning pictures showing everyday moments of

Girls in Brum like a flutter according to a report into shopping habits which reveals Birmingham as the capital for glitter eyelashes! The John Lewis survey reported 38 per cent of all sales of glitter lashes were made in its Brum store. The report also shows that while shoppers continue to visit beauty halls, traffic to the retailer’s online beauty pages is up 41 per cent with an 88 per cent rise in visits from smartphones.

Birmingham, from sunrise to sunset, have helped a local photographer win a top competition. Hanny Foxhall, originally from Mexico but who now lives in Birmingham, captured shots including Snow Hill, Birmingham Royal Ballet and Grand Central to claim the £1,000 prize in the #BrandBrum competition, launched by city brand agency ORB in collaboration with Retail Birmingham.

MAGICAL MYSTERY TOUR Shakespeare Birthplace Trust is on the hunt for ‘muse catchers’ to take part in an after-dark adventure. The Garden of Curious A-Muse-ments is a magical interactive sound and light experience for all the family. From 15 to 17 December, muse catchers will be invited to go on a dream-like journey at Shakespeare’s New Place in Stratford-upon-Avon. More information and tickets at www.musecatcher.org

PEACE TREE TAKES ROOT Pupils from five Birmingham schools have made 150 pledges for peace that will be formed into a peace tree that is touring schools in the city. The pledges are part of a major education project Words of Peace, organised

by Sampad Arts, involving pupils from Chad Vale Primary, Ladypool Primary, Kings Norton Girls Secondary, Rockwood Academy and South & City College Digbeth. Participants have spent five months investigating Birmingham’s response to World War One.

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DISH OF THE DAY Roast sirloin with watercress puree, oxtail and potato pie? Yes please!

This tasty dish by chef Abhijeet Dasalkar of the Arden Hotel, Startford-upon-Avon proved a knockout with judges when Eden Hotel Collection held its sixth annual Battle of Eden – a dream dinner party for foodies celebrating the best of British produce from local suppliers.

Abhijeet took first prize in the cookoff against other Eden chefs.

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NEWS

WINNING STYLE Hair stylist James Earnshaw from Francesco Group’s Birmingham Academy scooped a Creative Vision silver award at the UK final of the Wella Professionals TrendVision Awards. The final saw James and 24 other talented stylists battle it out.

Francesco Group picked up a total of three awards, with Amy Sultan winning bronze in the Creative Vision category and Elizabeth Austin taking silver in the Colour Vision class.

KATIE’S KIDS KRACKER

IN BRIEF

Midlands teacher Katie Smith has seen a dream come true with the publication of her first children’s book. The 31year-old head of English at Wyre Forest School, who has an incurable brain tumour, won Lorraine's Top Tales children’s book writing competition on TV earlier in the year. Katie’s book, The Pumpkin Project, is described on the lovereading4kids website as having “definite hints of Roald Dahl in the story”.

WORLD CLASS

ACADEMY’S TOP MARK

Jubilee Academy Mossley, Walsall is celebrating being awarded the Inclusion Quality Mark (IQM). The primary academy, which is part of the Academy Transformation Trust, received the award at the Institute of Directors in London. The academy has been recognised for its inspirational inclusion work and has also been recommended as a Centre of Excellence. The IQM is a national standard for assessing schools and academies.

CITY IN PENCIL It’s Birmingham but like you’ve never seen it before! Artist Sketch, real name Carl Lavia, has created an intricate large-scale aerial drawing of the entire city which was displayed to visitors at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery (BMAG).

Carl is a London-based sketch artist who grew up in Brum. The sketch is the first in his project to draw all 69 cities in the UK.

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Symphony Hall has been named one of the top 10 best concert venues for acoustics in the world. It was ranked in seventh place in a global league table published by internationally renowned acoustic experts.

BIG BAND Award-winning singer and BBC Radio 2 presenter Clare Teal is bringing her big band sounds to Birmingham Town Hall on Sunday 18 December. She’s promising a few special guests along the way to get you in the Christmas mood.

IN CROWD Birmingham Contemporary Music Group is celebrating the 25th anniversary of its Sound Investment crowdfunding scheme with a concert conducted by Thomas Adès on 10 December. The scheme has raised more than £250,000.

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NEWS

LIGHT UP A LIFE THIS CHRISTMAS The Care at Christmas campaign, which includes a Light up a Life event to celebrate those who are no longer with us, is being launched for the second year by Birmingham’s St Mary’s Hospice. The 2015 appeal raised more than £50,000 for the Hospice which provides care for over 1,200 people and their families. This year’s campaign features a 2km Jingle Bell Jog on Sunday 4 December at Kings Heath Park. The Light up a Life event is on Thursday 15 December.

KEN STIRS IT UP He’s travelled round the world, cooked for 6,000 people at one time and is one of the leading authorities on oriental cooking. Legendary chef Ken Hom popped into the Midlands for a live cookery demonstration at the Leekes store.

During an hour-long insight into the world of wok cooking, Ken prepared a Chinese-style curry, spicy fried rice and vegetable stir fry.

ICING ON THE CAKE Believe it or not this incredible sculpture is actually a cake! Created by cake artist Rhianydd Webb, it was one of the stars of the Cake International show which attracted more than 30,000 visitors and 150 exhibitors to the NEC. Rhianydd’s centrepiece was inspired by the The Magic Faraway Tree children’s classic by Enid Blyton. Seems a shame to cut it!

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SHOW SNAPS UP TITLE A popular Birmingham city centre outdoor photography exhibition has won a national award. Colmore Business Improvement District’s #NicklinUnseen exhibition, which displayed the work of local photographer and lecturer Phyllis Nicklin on large-format boards in Snow Hill Square, has been recognised by British BIDs, the support organisation for BIDs across the country.

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NEWS

GET YOUR SKATES ON Birmingham’s Big Wheel and Ice Rink are back in Centenary Square. With more than 600 sqm of iced surface, Ice Skate Birmingham can accommodate 220 people at any one time. An Ice Lounge next to the rink offers a range of festive food and drinks to skaters and spectators.

CASH RECORD-BREAKER A charity gala dinner for Midlands Air Ambulance Charity has become the most successful one-off fund-raising event in the lifesaving organisation’s 25-year history. More than £101,000 was raised at the evening organised by one of the service’s corporate partners, Edgbaston-based Monaco Insurance. The sum donated by the 400 invited guests will fund 40 air ambulance missions.

BBC MAKES SOUND CHOICE The next generation of BBC radio and TV producers will learn the skills of their trade right here in Brum after Birmingham City University was chosen by the Corporation as its partner provider for the specialist BEng (Hons) Broadcast and Communications Engineering course. Based in Millennium Point, the course will give BBC students a real world experience Picture: as well as equipping them with a degree.

Ian Yates

OWL CAUSES A FLAP A new plinth has been unveiled for the Sutton Coldfield Big Hoot Owl. The Owl, which took up residence in Sutton last year as part of The Big Hoot trail, returned to the town in November 2015. The new plinth celebrates the successful crowd-funding campaign organised by Sutton Coldfield Town Centre BID to buy the owl at the Big Hoot charity auction. It now stands in the Gracechurch Centre.

BIRDWATCHERS: Mike Bushell, Sutton Coldfield Town Centre BID manager and Louise McCathie, director of fund-raising at Birmingham Children’s Hospital

SHAZIA FILM APPEAL Birmingham Living cover star, comedian and actress Shazia Mirza is starring in a new feature length film which looks at a BritishPakistani woman facing a crisis in her life. Arifa is a comedy-drama written and directed by Pakistani film-maker Sadia Saeed. The project is being funded by donations via Kickstarter campaign and charity website. Details at kickstarter.com

GOT ANY NEWS? Email your news and pictures to editor@brumliving.co.uk december 2016

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COVER STORY

This music business, it’s…

CHILD’S PLAY!

In a special Christmas interview double, David Johns talks to two acts from Brum who hit the big-time on one of Britain’s biggest TV shows.

First up, it’s now-all-grown-up child singing star Connie Talbot

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COVER STORY

en years ago, six-year-old Connie Talbot strode onto the stage of Britain’s Got Talent and with a precocious talent, angelic voice and delightful gap-toothed grin launched into Somewhere Over The Rainbow. A couple of minutes later, the life of the girl from Streetly had been changed forever as she sent the studio audience into raptures and captured the hearts of millions of TV viewers watching at home.

Since that amazing debut Connie has become an international phenomenon appearing in shows around the world as well as having hit albums and becoming a multi-million YouTube There are plenty of examples in sensation. When I caught up with the showbiz of talented child stars who go off the 16-year-old this month she was on her way to ‘knock around’ some ideas with the rails by the age of 16. But not Connie producer of American superstar Mary J Blige. Having had a successful album Matters To Me in March 2016, Connie is in the midst she’s just round the corner in the same road as us”). of ‘some big projects’ due in early 2017.

Connie lives with mum Sharon, dad Gavin and her Being a child star is seriously tricky stuff. There older brother Josh and sister Mollie. It was her late are plenty of examples in showbiz of lovely, talented grandmother Violet who was first to recognise kids who have been seriously good at six and Connie’s talent for singing when her grand-daughter seriously a pain in the ass and off the rails at 16. But watched The Wizard of Oz with her – and sang the not Connie. This is one teenage sensation with a songs from the musical over and over. After her seriously screwed-on head. And she’s in no doubt sensational appearances on BGT, Connie’s debut who to thank for that. “It’s all down to mum and album Over The Rainbow won a gold disc in the UK dad,” she says. and platinum and double platinum in other countries. Connie became the youngest artist in the FAMILY FIRST UK to reach the charts and the youngest-ever to “People think that if a child is very successful at receive a gold record. something and ambitious it’s because they have Two years later she released an album in America pushy parents. But nothing could be further from the and recorded a one-hour TV special. She was just truth with my parents. I have always just pushed aged eight. The following year she performed for myself. I decided I wanted to audition for Britain’s world leaders in South Korea at the opening Got Talent and they supported me in that, just as ceremony of the G20 World Summit. Then in 2011, they do with everything else. They’ve always she sang at China’s New Year celebrations watched encouraged me with my music, but also stressed the by a TV audience of 600 million! Tours of the UK, importance of getting a good education, doing well in including top venues such as London’s O2, followed exams and having a career to fall back on if my music before trips to Los Angeles and Hong Kong. all goes wrong. We all know music is a risky business.

As well as developing into a prolific songwriter, One day you’re everyone’s favourite but it can easily Connie also plays piano and guitar. “I love all change round very quickly.” songwriting,” she says. “I like being creative. The Family is all-important to Connie (“I’m spending way I write music is pretty random really. Often if I a quiet Christmas with my family at my auntie’s – have something on my mind I might write about it.

T

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COVER STORY

It can be the music that comes first or the words, or a mix of both.

“Right now it’s important to get the balance between my music and schoolwork right. It’s never been a problem though because it has always been second nature to me to have to deal with both in my life right from when I was very young. I’ve got GCSEs next June and then I will probably do A-Levels, but really I want to make my career moving forward in music.”

Mum Sharon is keen to stress how seriously Connie takes her academic work. “Connie’s attendance at school never suffers,” she says. “It’s always been well above 92 per cent.” Indeed, you get the impression talking to Sharon that she’d be quite as happy for her daughter to have a successful ‘normal’ career. “The careers lady came into Connie’s school and didn’t know who Connie was or anything about her,” says Sharon. “She asked Connie what career she wanted to do and when she told her she wanted to be a singer the careers lady told her to come to her senses and concentrate on her strength in sciences!”

“

The girl from Streetly

”

became the youngest artist in the UK

to reach the charts and the youngestever to receive a gold record

december 2016

LUCKY BREAK Like all 16-year-olds, Connie is on the cusp of the rest of her life. Music has always been what her life revolves around, whether it’s sitting at the piano at home keying out a few chords of a new song, recording some new material or performing at gigs – including events supporting charities such as Birmingham Children’s Hospital.

“Being on BGT at six really feels like a lifetime ago,” she says. “When you’re young and you want to achieve something the years seem to pass so slowly. Then when you get older they go so quickly.” As mentioned earlier, because of her age and education, there have been times when developing her musical dream has had to be put on the back-burner a bit, but that hasn’t worried the teenager. “The hardest thing of all with a music career is to get into it in the first place, and that’s mostly down to luck as well as having the talent. I’ve had that break with BGT and it’s just gone on from there.”

So, who would bet against Connie, post-GCSEs, becoming as big a star as her hero Adele? “I love Adele, she is amazing and a real role model,” says Connie. “It’s my dream to sing with her.” Maybe if Adele’s available over Christmas and is reading this…. who knows? I

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FEATURE

FAMILY FORTUNES The Neales took Britain’s Got Talent by storm in 2015. Eighteen months on, David

Johns finds out how Brum’s father and son foursome have been coping with the fame amously, they reduced Simon Cowell to tears. It’s safe to say that The Neales took Britain’s Got Talent by storm in a way previously unseen since singer Susan Boyle.

Like Boyle six years earlier, the four-part family harmony group from Birmingham made the show’s final in 2015 and didn’t win.

But they became overnight stars with millions of viewers and millions more worldwide on YouTube and social media.

“Britain’s Got Talent is one of the biggest TV shows in the world, so reaching the live final was pretty incredible to say the least,” said James. “You’re in a bit of a bubble during the show because it really is one of those special shows that the whole nation is talking about whilst it’s on.”

The foursome – dad Laurie and sons James, Dan and Phil – went into the show as amateurs with no experience and with no expectations but after reaching the final they knew that the real test was going to be how they progressed once the show had finished. They have been careful to balance their fame with their day jobs – Laurie and James are both lawyers, while Dan works for Deutsche Bank in Birmingham and Phil for a major supermarket chain.

F

SOLD-OUT GIGS “It’s been a lot of hard work, but thankfully there’s four of us to share the workload,” said James. “We make sure we all have fun together, whether it is on stage, on the road, in the studio or just when we’re at home. We’re delighted that over the past year since the show, we’ve sold out some

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FEATURE

great venues across the country, raised tens of thousands of pounds for charity, met loads of inspirational people and made some unforgettable memories. Topping it off, in June our debut single I’ll Be There went straight into the Official UK Charts at number 22, peaking at number six. We continue to take things one step at a time though.”

The Neales auditioned for BGT after years of Laurie, now 60, nagging his sons. Laurie had always been passionate about singing but a heart attack 10 years ago which brought him close to death convinced him to make up for lost time. “Music is my therapy to de-stress after I almost worked my way into the grave,” said Laurie. “Enjoying music with my sons is all I ever wanted to do.”

december 2016

“

We’ve learned a lot more

about each other. Dan isn’t always as quiet as he seems, Phil has an answer

”

for everything and dad, at the age of 60, is more of a heart-throb than all three of us!

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FEATURE

James and his brothers are convinced that their BGT fame has drawn the family even closer together. “We’ve learned a lot more about each other and probably seen sides we wouldn’t have seen otherwise,” he said. “I’ve learned that Dan isn’t always as quiet as he sometimes seems, that Phil has an answer for everything and that my dad, at the age of 60, is more of a heart-throb than all three of us!

“And mum has loved it too – it’s meant that she’s seen a lot more of us when we were back rehearsing for gigs every weekend. She’s been interviewed for various lifestyle magazines keen to hear her story, and it’s shown her that if she does want to get back into modeling then the door is definitely still open.”

Mother Joanne first met Laurie when they shared student digs in London – he was studying law while she was training at Rambert School of Ballet. Joanne went on to become a dancer and model and the two have been married for nearly 35 years.

Of the future, James revealed that The Neales are writing their own songs with the help of a top team of writers and producers. “From a recording perspective, we’re hoping to do some collaborations with cool artists,” he added. “We’d love to hear our songs feature on TV or in films.

Up-to-date news and information about upcoming gigs can be found on Twitter @TheNeales and on Facebook @TheNealesUK

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“

”

We would love to appear on the Late Late Show with James Corden because like the rest of the world – we all love him

“When it comes to gigs, we have to be realistic as to what we can sustain alongside our day jobs. We certainly hope to continue to share a stage together for years to come as we absolutely love putting on a great show.”

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL Among the foursome’s highlights is their annual sell-out Christmas show. Last year it was at Town Hall and just last month they brought their Countdown to Christmas – The Neales show to the Core Theatre, Solihull. “We had a great time in Solihull,” said James.

“At some point we’d love to appear back again at Birmingham Hippodrome as that’s where it all started with our first audition for BGT.” So, what about a dream gig? “That would be to appear on the Late Late Show with James Corden because like the rest of the world – we all love him!” I

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FOOD & DRINK

RICHARD SMYTH The head chef at The Chequers at Crowle talks turkey dinosaurs, hogweed bubble and squeak and the great cooks who inspire him Tell us about your cooking My training is classical, but I’ve always kept my eye on modern techniques to find ways to re-imagine dishes. I like hearty, home-cooked flavours but like to show my creativity with their presentation. I get excited when I find a new ingredient and I love learning new ways to work with them. I like to see our customers leave full, happy and hopefully with memories of a dish that surprised them.

How did you become a chef?

I started, like most, as a KP (kitchen porter) at the age of 14, in the early days of the gastro-pub in Warwick. I remember being asked to help plate dishes on a busy service and that’s where the spark ignited. I loved the excitement of being

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involved in the food, so when they asked me to do a couple of nights a week on larder I jumped at the chance. My early influence funnily enough was Charles Harris who worked in the same kitchen at the time and who I still work with today. I’ve followed the careers and cookbooks of Raymond Blanc, Gordon Ramsay and Tom Kerridge. For me, they have been a massive inspiration. My family have always supported me with a sometimes very challenging career choice.

What do you eat when at home?

I like big flavours. I love treating myself to a steak dinner. Sometimes I’ll experiment with Asian flavours and love working with spices to create a good curry.

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CHEF’S CORNER

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

The best chef in the world, for me, is Grant Achatz at Alinea in Chicago. He fought an epic health battle and lost his sense of taste, but that didn’t stop him. His creative flair is a real benchmark and the way he used his team to get the results he needed was amazing. My favourite chef in Brum is Andreas Antona. His food has been consistent for years and he’s grown some incredible chefs along the way.

Is the customer always right?

Yes!

Share a cooking tip

RICHARD’S CHASE SMOKED VODKA AND DILL CURED SALMON

Never skimp and save on the ingredients. The final product is only as good as the produce that goes into it.

Ingredients:

What was your favourite food as a kid?

I 165g rock salt

Cottage pie. My mum made a mean cottage pie… and when I was really young, turkey dinosaurs. I always had an eye for presentation!

Food heaven and food hell?

Heaven is a great piece of meat. Hell? I hate oysters. I’ve just never understood them.

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

When I worked in Cornwall we did a bit of foraging and we found an unusual use for hogweed, putting it into a bubble and squeak. Looking back, that was pretty unusual.

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

Not half of the man I am today!

What do you recommend from this evening’s menu?

It’s getting colder now so I’d probably tuck into our Alpine cheese fondue to warm up. I’d follow that with an Aubrey Allen steak and finish with one of our awesome chocolate fondants. I

december 2016

I 300g organic salmon, skin on, bones out I 175g demerara sugar

I 150ml chase smoked vodka I 2 juniper berries crushed

I 1 lemon, zested and juiced I 20g Dijon mustard I 40g dill chopped

Method: Place salmon on a tray lined with cling film and completely cover with salt, sugar, juniper and lemon. Pat down mixture with your hands, drizzle over vodka, then sprinkle over half of the dill and add grated lemon zest. Wrap salmon tightly in cling film and place in the fridge, weighing down the salmon will help to pack down the mixture. Leave for 12 hours to marinate. Remove salmon from the salt mix and wash off the mixture, pat dry with kitchen towel. Brush the salmon with Dijon and press the dill onto the salmon firmly.

Cling film the salmon and place on a tray skin side up so the weight of the salmon pushes herbs onto flesh. Place in fridge for 2 hours and slice thinly. Serve with crème fraiche, rocket, a drizzle of maple syrup, thin croutes or toasted rye bread.

The Chequers at Crowle, Crowle Green, Crowle WR7 4AA. Tel: 01905 381772 www.thechequersatcrowle.com

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RESTAURANT REVIEW

TURNERS AT 69 69 High St, Harborne, Birmingham B17 9NS. Tel: 0121 426 4440 www.turnersat69.co.uk learly we eat out a lot at Brum Living Towers. Perk of the job and all that.

However, in recent times it’s all got a bit poncy. Bank-breaking tasting menus with bouncy waiters spewing the merits of each dish have their place, but sometimes (often) we just want a delicious meal with great friends and much chatter and we don’t mean with a waiter about sous vide salmon.

Cue Richard Turner who has given his Michelinstarred gaff an overhaul. For starters it’s now called Turners at 69 and the tasting menu is off. The set lunch is £18.99 for two courses increasing accessibility (i.e. you’ll find us nestled in a corner tucking into ox cheek every Friday). We plumped for the a la carte menu rather than the set lunch as we wanted to try a few dishes. We couldn’t help feeling a couple more set lunch options would have been marvellous.

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MASTERFUL Although the menu is easier on the pocket Richard hasn’t scrimped on quality or inventiveness. Yes, the classics feature. There’s a lip-smackingly good steak and duck fat chips with béarnaise sauce and a moreish duck liver parfait done brilliantly served with crispy chicken skin as well as warm brioche. A masterful cheek of Iberico with tastes of apple and prune sang a sweet, sticky, unctuous song. Dishes like a silky veloute of smoked haddock with a crispy egg which was smoky and comforting sit alongside fresh, punchy

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heritage tomatoes and Innes farm curd with edible flowers. A work of art both visually and gastronomically it was one of our stand-out dishes along with the smoked haddock.

From a décor point of view the bijoux restaurant has the same deep blue walls, but they’re now teamed with classic grey banquettes and comfortable chairs that add to the more relaxed vibe. The service was faultless. Our waiter had cut his teeth at Le Gavroche, so knew the fine dining ropes like the back of his hand and was attentive not intrusive.

Genuinely, the only differences we could see were positive – the price and the more relaxed atmosphere.

We loved it a lot. Can you tell? I

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FOOD & DRINK

NIBBLES and

SHORTS

Birmingham has a lively and buzzing bar and restaurant scene. Here, we present our insider guide to what’s going on in your city’s eateries and drinking dens LATE NIGHT SUNDAES A late night ice cream diner… that sounds cool! Creams Cafe Birmingham on Bishopsgate Street serves freakshakes, sundaes and more than 40 different flavours of gelato ice cream. These include many inspired by Ferrero Rocher as well as classics such as Sicilian Pistachio. Health-conscious options include the Seasonal Fruits 5-a-Day.

TOASTY TOOTSIES Birmingham’s new ‘hot’ spot is Lobby on Hill Street. The Skandi-style venue – which serves innovative cocktails and street food style tapas dishes – has a quirky interior décor and a heated pavement level terrace! Lobby is the first venture in the Midlands for the Cairn Group and also has craft beers, fine wines and fizz. On the menu, we like the sound of Black Country Faggot Sliders…

BITE AT THE MUSEUM Congrats to the guys and girls at the British Motor Museum which featured in the 2016 FreeFrom Eating Out Awards. The museum’s Junction 12 Café was honoured in the Independent Cafes and Tearooms category. The awards raise awareness of ‘freefrom’ food within the food service sector following the introduction of new allergen regulations.

INTIMATE AS YOU LIKE IT Eden Hotel Collection, the boutique hotel group behind Brockencote Hall and Mallory Court, has opened Arden House in Stratford-upon-Avon, just around the corner from the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. The intimate sister property to the Arden hotel, it boasts 10 bedrooms with dedicated 24-hour ‘house hosts’.

CITY REAL ALE GUIDE A new free guide highlights real ale outlets and the growth of craft bars in the city. Covering the city centre, Digbeth, Jewellery Quarter, Harborne, Kings Heath and Moseley, 116 real ale outlets are featured, plus four craft beer specialist bars. It’s the work of Nige Barker and Dave Moorhouse of the Wellington Real Ale pub, Birmingham and local historian Andy Maxam.

MAKE MINE A CLUCKY BALBOA Another American-inspired burger joint has joined the Birmingham fold. Byron Hamburgers, New Street serves a tasty range of beef burgers that includes the Cheesemans Number One and a rather awesome Smoky. There’s also chicken options, including the Clucky Balboa.

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LUNCH SPOT

RAJDOOT 78-79 George St, Birmingham B3 1PY. Tel: 0121 236 1116 www.rajdootbirmingham.co.uk ot many restaurants make 50 years, but in this notoriously tough industry one Birmingham eatery has done just that.

Rajdoot in the Jewellery Quarter has racked up a half-century providing spice-loving Brummies with authentic North Indian food… and the crowds keep coming. We thought it’d be rude not to celebrate their big birthday by sampling the place ourselves.

Rajdoot feels like the real deal from the get-go with décor that makes you feel warm and fuzzy. Lots of gold, rich reds, prints and traditional art. We embraced the vibe and promptly ordered a Cobra beer despite never drinking beer at any other time. Baron Bilimoria, you’re a clever man.

Poppadoms were served with accompaniments that were pretty special. The onion salad had a real kick and the raita hit the spot. I have to admit I’m usually dull when it comes to Indian food. Adventurous when cooking it at home, in a restaurant I peruse the menu making all the right noises then the words chicken shashlick trip from my lips at the crucial moment. Not today.

The lunch menu was succinct and snappy, so the friend stuck with that while I went a la carte. Shish kebab was tender and juicy with gentle spicing of cardamom and coriander and vegetable samosas were

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packed with veggies and flavour served with a sticky sweet sauce. So far, so good.

We paused to chat to Manjit who’s been at the helm since the restaurant’s inception and it turns out the secret to their success isn’t rocket science. They grind their own spices in the kitchen which makes a heck of a difference and they focus on quality and authenticity – nothing fancy.

The Karahi Gosht from the a la carte menu was a good example of that. Simple, but stunning. Tender lamb just fell apart and the flavours were superb and distinctive with a hint of fenugreek. Chicken Adrakhi had a rich tomato sauce spiced with fresh chilli and ginger served with a perfect naan to soak it all up.

The service is pretty nifty making a scrumptious warming lunch easily doable in an hour. There’s nothing to fault and I guess that’s why it’s stood the test of time. Here’s to another 50! I

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FOOD & DRINK

ALTERNATIVE

CHRISTMAS FIZZ Wine expert Rob Price gives the festive season some extra sparkle – with a difference

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FOOD & DRINK

hristmas is a great time to buy sparkling wine.

All wine merchants and retailers want your business and they generally have some fantastic offers on fizz to tempt you. How many will you drink? This year we consumed more than 110 million bottles of sparkling wine. Prosecco now leads the way, followed by Champagne and Cava.

These are the heavy weights other sparkling wines try to copy, and for good reason because they are extremely good. But I’m going off-piste to look at other sparkling wines and recommend four that would give the top three a run for their money.

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ITALIAN BEAUTY Arguably the best sparkling wine in the world comes from Italy, and no it’s not Prosecco. It’s Franciacorta, a top-class wine from northern Italy, near lake Garda. It is a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir mainly, like Champagne, but aged for even longer, around two years. So, if Champagne is your tipple, try Franciacorta.

They make vintage and non-vintage with the latter richer, more developed and complex as it is aged for a minimum of 37 months. Franciacorta is made using the same technique as Champagne, called the traditional method, where the second fermentation occurs in the bottle we buy. It is left for many months in this bottle acquiring yeasty, toasty, nut and savoury flavours.

FRENCH FANCY Another wine made the same way is Crémant. This is a sparkling wine produced throughout France, except in the Champagne region. Made with local grapes, it is aged for only nine months and offers fantastic value for money. While Crémant is more varied than Cava it is similar in that they are both traditionally made and aged for a minimum of nine months and sell at a comparable price point. You could try Crémant de Loire, Crémant de Bordeaux, Crémant de Bourgogne (Burgundy), but the one in terms of climate most like Cava is Limoux. Both have a Mediterranean climate with the heat of the coast offset by vineyards being planted in the nearby hills.

PROSECCO RIVALS Now, what could replace Prosecco? Well it owes its popularity because it is a refreshing, fruity and

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4

ROB’S

FESTIVE FIZZERS

FANTASTIC FRANCIACORTA M&S has a good one for around £20, and it is quite delicious. But even better is Contadi Castaldi. This is a rosé with lovely persistent bubbles, floral and fresh, but with some savoury afternotes. Tannico sell for £22.90

CHARMING CRÉMANT 1531 Blanquette de Limoux is named in recognition of the year when they first made sparkling wines. Limoux claims to be the oldest sparkling wine region in the world. This one has crunchy green fruit, but with a little bread and brioche to complement. Great value at £9 from Tesco.

KIWI KRACKER Mount Bluff NV is a New Zealand sparkler. It’s fun, fruity and fizzy but really quite sophiscated. Marks and Spencer sells for £13.50, but most times it’s on offer at £10.

ENGLISH EXCELLENCE Let’s keep this one local. Buzzards Valley makes a range of wines, including some excellent fizz. It’s crisp, refreshing and moreish. Sells for about £20. The vineyard and winery is well worth a visit as it’s about 20 minutes from Birmingham, between Sutton Coldfield and Tamworth, in Drayton Bassett, B78 3EQ.

undemanding to drink. And there are many rivals. New Zealand, South Africa and Chile are all producing great quality sparkling wines, some in the Champagne mode but many in the lighter style. Most of these will not be matured and they therefore rely more on the fruity aspects of the grapes used.

ENGLAND’S FINEST And last, but certainly not least, we have English sparkling wine. These do match Champagne in style, quality and price. Our cool climate is ideally suited for sparkling wine production and we make some good stuff – about three million bottles last year!

Whichever of my suggestions you go for – or indeed, if you decide to stay with Champagne, Prosecco or Cava – here’s wishing you a fun and fizz-filled Christmas… I Birmingham Wine School offers a wide range of wine tasting events in the Midlands. From introductory evenings to advanced master classes, there’s something for everyone. With Christmas coming there’s a huge range of great gift experiences and gift vouchers, posted free, with no expiry date. For more information, contact Rob Price 0121 270 7359 or visit www.birminghamwineschool.com

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SEASON’S EATINGS

TURKEY CRACKER Hot to trot, this spicy twist gives Christmas dinner a tasty makeover

nd so it is Christmas… and it just has to be turkey on the big day. We’ve given the bird a hot twist this year courtesy of Ricky Wu, head chef at Henry Wong Harborne. If you’re looking for an alternative recipe to your traditional turkey dinner give his spicy turkey with chilli and garlic dish a go.

You won’t be disappointed… I

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Henry Wong Harborne, 283 High Street, Harborne, B17 9QH. Tel: 0121 427 7666 www. henrywongharborne.co.uk

TURKEY WITH CHILLI AND GARLIC Ingredients:

I 500g boneless turkey breast I 2 cups of potato starch I 1 ltr cooking oil I Finely sliced vegetables: ½ red pepper, ½ green pepper, onion, carrot I 1 large egg I 2 tsp finely chopped garlic, deep fried until golden brown and set aside I ½ tsp fresh chopped garlic I 1 tsp salt I 1 tsp sugar I ¼ tsp Five Spice powder I White pepper

Method: Cut turkey breast into 3 cm cubes. Marinade with ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp sugar and white pepper.

Mix the marinated turkey with the beaten egg, then evenly coat with potato starch. Heat the oil to 160c. Fry the turkey until golden brown and set aside to drain.

Heat a wok until medium/hot and add one tsp oil. Add ½ tsp fresh chopped garlic and fry for 10 seconds until slightly brown. Add the vegetables, turkey, 2 tsp of the previously fried garlic, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp sugar and the Five Spice powder and quickly stir fry for 15 seconds before serving.

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Revills Farm Shop

Christmas from the award winning farm shop

Locally reared turkey, goose & duck available

Delicious homemade cakes & pastries

Fresh local vegetables and fruit

Beautiful festive hampers available

Bourne Road, Defford, Worcestershire WR8 9BS Tel: 01386 750466 www.revillsfarmshop.co.uk

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DRESS CODE

Pondering the plethora of dress codes we’ll be adhering to this month, we’ve picked out some of the festive season’s hottest looks that’ll have you strutting effortlessly from soiree to soiree.

ACE LACE Gothic dress £60, Next, The Fort

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STYLE

LOW CUT Embellished dress £150, Topshop, The Fort

COLD SHOULDER Black asymmetric dress, Debenhams, The Fort

TWINKLE TOES Onto glitter shoe £68, Office, Bullring

RICH RED Fit and flare dress £225, Jaeger, John Lewis

t’s party time. The diary’s full, but what to wear? We believe it’s always better to overdress than under as effort is always appreciated and that a couple of versatile key pieces can see you through a host of events with a mere tweak of accessories.

A generation ago black tie meant ball gown.

While we would always suggest a dress or a super sharp tuxedo, Topshop’s floaty Twenties inspired embroidered dress would do the job beautifully (pictured page 36) and provides much more versatility than a gown, as would the cute LBD with embellished collar from Wallis.

If you can’t decide between a dress or a tux go for both. The Kooples stunning tuxedo dress with gold lapels from Selfridges is a show stopper. Jaeger’s winter

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GOLD RUSH LACE UP

Pleated metallic skirt £18, Matalan, Dartmouth Circus

Hamal court £59, Monsoon, Bullring

ANIMAL MAGNETISM Leopard print Kiri bag £32, Dune, Bullring

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STYLE

berry fit and flare dress ticks many a party box and for occasions from cocktail o’clock with mates to a full blown Christmas bash, Next’s gothic black lace dress is at the top of the style tree.

As for shoes, make like Cinderella with the No. 21 blue slip on from Selfridges or Manolo Blahnik’s black embellished satin pump from Harvey Nichols. On the high street, hot foot it to Office for some particularly festive sparkly courts or Dune for a deep burnished gold heel with a sleek ankle strap.

MILLION DOLLARS Claudie Pierlot dress £420, Happy Christmas! I Selfridges Birmingham

CLASSIC CLUTCH Camel clasp clutch £99, Jaeger, John Lewis

OLD SCHOOL GLAMOUR Dress and faux fur wrap, Matalan, Dartmouth Circus

ARM CANDY Silver sequin bag £20, by Therapy London, House of Fraser, Corporation St

LUXE TUX The Kooples tuxedo dress £295, Selfridges Birmingham

STATEMENT PIECE CUTE LBD Embellished collar shift dress £40, Wallis, Bullring

Abbie necklace £45, Hobbs, Grand Central

CINDERELLA MOMENT Manolo Blahnik embellished satin pumps £725, Harvey Nichols, The Mailbox

WORK OF ART Necklace with shoulder detail £45, River Island, The Fort

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STYLE

BLACK AND GOLD Clutch £99, Biba, House of Fraser, Corporation St

OFF THE CUFF Freya cuff £29, Hobbs, Grand Central

UNDER AS OUTERWEAR Black slip dress £35, Next, The Fort

HEAVY METAL Clementine heel £85, Dune, Bullring

RAZZLE DAZZLE Sequin dress, Monsoon, Bullring

BLACK ON BLACK Top, skirt and accessories, River Island, The Fort

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STYLE

SWEEPING GOWN

ALL WRAPPED UP

Black shimmer dress £55, Wallis, Bullring

Velvet wrap sandals, New Look, The Fort

HOT LIPS Lulu Guinness lips clutch £245, House of Fraser, Corporation St

SMOOTH LINES FWM by Fenn Wright Manson bodycon stretch dress £40, Matalan, Dartmouth Circus

ATTENTION TO DETAIL FLOAT LIKE A BUTTERFLY

Velvet dress £55, Topshop, The Fort

Embroidered dress £220, Topshop, The Fort

FEEL THE TEAL Natural teal sandal £60, Office, Bullring

BEAU BOW Arcelia bow shoe £59, Monsoon, Bullring

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BEAUTY

PICK SIX

Beauty expert Rose Gallagher chooses her top best buy festive beauty gifts that are guaranteed to have your loved ones cooing

Jo Loves fragrance in Pomelo, £65 joloves.com Wrapped in festive red and white wrap, a unique gift to give this year will be a Jo Loves scent, created by the perfumer Jo Malone.

Pretty Iconic by Sali Hughes, £26 from Waterstones A nostalgic book to curl up with this Christmas, Pretty Iconic is the second instalment from Sali Hughes and explores years of iconic beauty products and the remarkable tales behind their inception.

This Works Scent Well Set, £69 from Harvey Nichols Give the gift of relaxation with this new This Works diffuser. Add a couple of drops of heady sleep elixir to this diffuser and it will fill the room with a calming scent, switching off automatically after one hour.

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Deborah Lippmann Ice Queen Duet, £17 from Cult Beauty As for party nails, Deborah Lippmann has got it covered with her festive nail sets. Her polishes are unbeatable for lasting power, and her Gel Lab Pro series offers a plump, glossy finish similar to a gel manicure without the need for a UV lamp.

Bobbi Brown Nude Library Eyeshadow Palette, £145 from Selfridges Bobbi Brown has gone back through the archives of her most loved palettes and merged them all into this Nude Library.

Hosting a variety of multi-tonal shades, this houses an endless selection of colours.

Redken Heatcure Treatment, from £20 nationwide If your special someone doesn’t always make enough time for themselves, giving them a treatment will mean that they have to take some me time. This new service from Redken is available in salons nationwide and reverses damage from bleaching and heat styling hair.

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STYLE FOR MEN

CHRISTMAS COOL Dutton zip pattern knit £79.95, White Stuff

BIG CHILL

True to form, the temperature gauge is set at 17 degrees while we’re writing a feature on winter warmers. So, while not feeling particularly festive here’s our pick

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STYLE FOR MEN

BAH HUMBUG Grey pug sweater £25, River Island

PUD YOU? Xmas pudding jumper, Debenhams

ALL GROWN-UP Corvo chest pattern knit £55, White Stuff

DOG’S LIFE Gucci Snoopy intarsia jumper £560, Harvey Nichols

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LOVE ACTUALLY PS by Paul Smith heart jumper £175, Harvey Nichols

HERRINGBONE CREW Melange herringbone crew neck sweater £75, Jaeger

BRUSH UP Brushed lambs wool sweater £119, Jigsaw

CRACKING CARDI Navy cardigan £45, Debenhams

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HEALTH

HAPPY HANDS Our mitts often give the first clue to our general state of health – so what should you be looking for? ands take one helluva beating this time of year.

For starters, it’s cold and damp and our hands are exposed to extremes of temperature. They are one of the most complex areas of the body, each with 29 bones and joints, 34 muscles, and more than 100 ligaments. They are also one of the first to give clues to our general state of health. Here’s our ‘handy’ guide of what to look for…

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CHILL FACTOR Cold hands, warm heart so the saying goes. But chilly palms and digits are usually a sign of poor circulation, low blood pressure or an under-active thyroid.

PALM READING Reddening of the palms, known as palmar erythema, is one of the classic signs of liver damage. They can also be a sign of rheumatoid arthritis. Hot, sweaty palms can be caused by an overactive thyroid, or by too much alcohol or stress. Thickening palms can be a symptom of Dupuytren’s contracture, when the tendons of the fingers in the palm thicken, resulting in the finger curling into the palm.

SHAKE ON IT Everyone’s hands shake, it’s just a matter of how much.

At the lower end of the spectrum, trembling hands can be a sign of anxiety and stress or drinking too much alcohol or having too much caffeine from too many cups of strong coffee. More pronounced shaking could be a sign of

something more worrying such as Parkinson’s disease or an over-active thyroid.

BROWNED OFF As we get older the backs of our hands usually develop brown marks known as age or liver spots. These are most usually caused by excessive pigmentation due to overexposure to UV rays of the sun.

FINGER FACTS Fingers that turn white, blue and then red with pins and needles and numbness are a sign of Raynaud’s disease, a condition which often runs in families and in which blood flow to the fingers is restricted. Problems with fingers can also be associated with various rheumatic conditions. Hard bony lumps around the finger joints – often referred to as Heberden’s nodes – are a common sign of osteoarthritis.

They are more common in women than men and are often found in manual workers and people who use their hands a lot, such as keyboard operators or typists.

ON THE DRY SIDE Very dry skin on the hands can be a sign of an underactive thyroid – a particular problem for women as they get older, or after the menopause when skin tends to dry out as levels of oestrogen drop. It could also be a sign of essential fatty acid deficiency caused by not eating enough oily fish or nuts and seeds. I For early diagnosis and treatment of hand and wrist problems, contact the specialists at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 0121 580 7119.

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Gift GUIDE

GIFT GUIDE

Gucci shoulder bag £1,180, Harvey Nichols, Mailbox

Santa charm, £55 Links of London, Bullring

Monica Vinader petra gold-plated stacking rings £85 each, Selfridges, Bullring

THE BIG

Tapas Revolution Spanish Made Simple £20, Foyles and Tapas Revolution, Grand Central

Our festive hotlist combines gift ideas at a range of price points with one thing in common – they’re all

either designed, made or sold in Brum. From

stocking fillers at £4 to extravagant presents costing thousands we’ve taken the best Brum has to

offer and condensed it into six inspirational pages.Christmas is officially sorted!

Professor Cornelius Bathtub Gin (magnum) £82.50, Harvey Nichols, Mailbox

Bluetooth record player £59.99, Leekes, Coventry

Men’s Paul Smith watch £200, TH Baker, Grand Central

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Elemis Pearls of Wisdom gift set £199, Harvey Nichols, Mailbox

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GIFT GUIDE David Bowie limited edition framed print

by Barbara Gibson (50x50cm) £250, GibsonGraphics, Jewellery Quarter www.barbaragibson.pl/graphics

Jewellery making experience £175, Magnus & Bella, Jewellery Quarter www.notonthehighstreet.com

Christmas jumper £19.99, New Look, The Fort Shopping Park Pannetone with Prosecco filling £19.95, Carluccio’s, Brindleyplace

Bluezoo Microfleece £15, Debenhams, The Fort Shopping Park

Christmas cheetah pillow £9.99, H&M, The Fort Shopping Park

Afternoon tea in BMAG’s Edwardian Tea Rooms, £27 for two, www.birminghammuseums.org.uk /bmag/visit/edwardian-tearooms

Benjamin & Blum Oolong luxury bottled tea £25, Selfridges, Bullring

Smeg stand mixer in Black £299, Leekes, Coventry Exclusive espresso set featuring photos of Vivien Leigh and Laurence Olivier from 1955 production of Macbeth shot by Angus McBean £15.99, Royal Shakespeare Company shop www.rsc.org.uk/shop

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Disaronno wears Etro £22.50, Harvey Nichols, Mailbox Exclusive Jimmy Choo Max platform shoe £795, Selfridges, Bullring

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GIFT GUIDE

Atelier Cologne Ambre Nue gift set £65, Harvey Nichols, Mailbox

Hennessy X set by Scott Campbell £79.99, Selfridges, Bullring

Goodnight pillow mist £15, Neal’s Yard Remedies, Grand Central

Gold love bird necklace £175, Alice Stewart Jewellery, Jewellery Quarter

Jewel encrusted clutch £55, Aldo, Selfridges, Bullring

Personalised gift cards from Selfridges, Bullring Nescafe Dolce Gusto Movenza automatic pod coffee machine £169.99, Debenhams, Bullring

Kids Dear Santa jumper, M&S, The Fort Shopping Park Vivienne Westwood watch £235, Harvey Nichols, Mailbox

Friends Membership at Birmingham Hippodrome includes exclusive benefits and discounts from £40 per year www.birminghamhippodrome.com/giveandjoin/individualgiving/friends/ Aston Villa hot water bottle & socks set £15, AVFC shop

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Jamie Oliver Glorious oils set £14, Debenhams, The Fort Shopping Park

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GIFT GUIDE

Flamingo snow globe £25, House of Fraser, Corporation St

Exclusive La Mer moisturising cream Swarvoski £1,000, Selfridges, Bullring

Gin and Tonic candle £4, Next, The Fort Shopping Park

Rejuvenate Me Deluxe ESPA facial and full body aromatherapy massage and invigorating foot treatment (135mins) £135, Shakina Spa at Park Regis www.parkregisbirmingham.co.uk

Nurse Rosie mini £4.99, medium £11.99, large £18.99, Birmingham Children’s Hospital Polpo – A Venetian Cookbook £25, Harvey Nichols, Mailbox

Christmas Collection Orange Bitters deluxe candle £120, Jo Malone London, Grand Central

Bespoke Learn to Play and Learn to Deal experiences including roulette, black jack, poker and slots from £13.95 per person, Resorts World

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Vivienne Westwood navy scarf £249, Peter Forson, Great Western Arcade

Roll top back pack £45, Provide #BestOfBrum pop-up, Great Western Arcade

Star earrings £20, Jaeger

Chrome Hausschwein money box £55, Cookes, Erdington

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GIFT GUIDE Boys brown Ombré knit open cardigan £14, River Island, The Fort Shopping Park

Shot glasses and cocktail syrups party set £16, Next, The Fort Shopping Park

Urban Decay eyes palette £43, John Lewis, Grand Central

Unlimited cinema for a year £202.80, Cineworld, Broad St

Viktor&Rolf Spicebomb Extreme 50ml £56, Harvey Nichols, Mailbox The NEC’s Amplify Freestyle package includes VIP entrance and check-in, access to exclusive lounge bar, twocourse meal and free onsite parking available at Genting Arena and Barclaycard Arena, amplify.co.uk Pre-loved Louis Vuitton Alma in monogram and burgundy £,1450, Designer Exchange, Great Western Arcade

Limited edition nudes part of Marta Kochanek’s award-winning Cognitive Bodies series, 50x70cm unframed print £480, framed £680, www.martakochanek.com Chewbacca Tee £33.50, Chuck Clothing at Joy, New Street Station Emoji keyrings £4.95, IKON Gallery shop, Brindleyplace

Cookie set £12, Next, The Fort Shopping Park

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Marrakech faux leather bathroom accessories from £12 to £180, Gallery Showroom www.galleryshowroom.co.uk

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GIFT GUIDE

Shooting star bangle £260,Fei Liu, Jewellery Quarter

Cyberjammies monochrome robe £38, Sipsey Lingerie, Solihull

Girls glitter velvet top from £26 to £32, M&S, The Fort Shopping Park

The Man Reviver hamper £140, Harvey Nichols, Mailbox

Two Brothers and a Chocolate Factory by Juliet Clare Bell £11.99, IKON Gallery shop, Brindleyplace Wall light arrow £129, Cookes Furniture, Erdington Exclusive Jimmy Choo candy clutch £595, Selfridges, Bullring

Make your own macaroon gift set, 6-piece £13.50, 12-piece £25, 24-piece £48, Miss Macaroon, Great Western Arcade

Award-winning William Chase gin and vodka set £17.99, Loki Wine, Great Western Arcade

Whole black or white truffles £50, Anderson & Hill, Great Western Arcade Gas Holders Mouth 90x60cm framed print £500, unframed £350,

by Tom Bird www.bytombird.com

december 2016

Pane of glass in presentation box to raise funds for the Glasshouse Appeal, £100, Birmingham Botanical Gardens.

(Names will appear in a large artwork that will remain for time immemorial in the Gardens once the target of 4,000 has been reached.)

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HOMES

Hot Properties From a manor house with its own underground car showroom to living with your head in the clouds… take a look at this month’s top homes

DRIVE-TIME DELIGHT Ashlawn Crescent, Solihull Guide price: £1.05million Agent: Fine & Country, tel: 0121 746 6400 Set behind a block-paved in and out driveway, this beautiful four-bedroomed home has been thoughtfully remodelled and refurbished to provide amazing and contemporary open-planned living.

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HOMES

MOTOR CITY Streetly Wood, Sutton Coldfield Guide price: £3.25million Agent: Fine & Country, tel: 0121 746 6400 A stunning eight-bedroom detached Georgian-style manor house, built in 2010 on a private gated road, with beautifully landscaped grounds of about an acre. Also boasts seven bathrooms, five reception rooms – and an underground 25-car showroom with specialist lift. Wow!

SKY’S THE LIMIT Galbraith House penthouse Guide price: £875,000 Agent: Knight Frank, tel: 0121 200 2220 Live among the clouds in this lovely three-bedroom penthouse in a prime city centre position on Great Charles Street. Enjoy your own private sky garden with this unique apartment that includes a private lift, sunroom and roof terrace.

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HOMES

BRICKS&BITS SELF-BUILDERS HOMES BOOST The region’s self-builders are undeterred by Brexit with more than 80 per cent in the West Midlands continuing with building projects, according to a survey by the Homebuilding & Renovating Shows.

More than 75 per cent of those questioned felt positive about current or future house-building projects and 62 per cent said that they have confidence in the housing market to remain stable post-Brexit

FINE OFFICE IN MAILBOX

PHEW, WHAT A VIEW Avonvale, Luddington Guide price: £1.95million Agent: Fine & Country, tel: 01926 455950 An awesome family home which includes six bedrooms, an orangery and triple garage with annex. There’s also a stunning rear terrace that overlooks the lovely gardens and provides fabulous views over the river and fields beyond.

The land and new homes division of Fine & Country has opened its first office in central Birmingham on the ground floor of the Mailbox. The division’s central region managing director Leon Evans is based in the new office, along with sales and investment director Marc Walker and Rebecca Doble, sales and marketing director. Nine members of staff will also be recruited.

AWARDS AT THE DOUBLE Redrow’s Compton Park, Wolverhampton gained a double triumph at the UK Property Awards. The development won in the residential development category while the Highgrove show home won in the single property section. Judging by an independent panel of 70 industry experts focused on design, quality, service, innovation, originality, and commitment to sustainability.

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

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MAGNIFICENT SEVEN The Mansion House Guide price: From £490,000 Agent: Maguire Jackson, tel 0121 634 1520 An impressive development set in landscaped grounds offering six apartments and a Lodge House in the heart of Edgbaston. All the properties feature generous-sized reception rooms and kitchens, with high ceilings throughout and parking included.

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HOMES

GRAND DESIGN The Ridgeway Guide price: ÂŁ600,000 Agent: Halls, tel: 01905 728437 A bespoke brand new contemporary detached family home with superb views to the Malvern Hills. Includes four bedrooms and a stunning open-planned kitchen dining room which opens onto a feature balcony.

Don’t miss Property of the Week on our Facebook page every Thursday www.facebook.com/bhamliving

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MOTORING

WINTER WARMER SEAT’s first-ever SUV is already proving an award-winner. Sue Cooke finds out what makes the newcomer special

FACTS AT A GLANCE: Model: SEAT Ateca SE Price: £21,015 otr Engine: 1.4 EcoTSI 150 PS six-speed manual Performance: 0-62mph in 8.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 125mph CO2 emissions: 122g/km Combined fuel consumption: 53.3mpg

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MOTORING

EAT, the Barcelona-based marque, says its model range in 2018 will be a very different one to now with a new line-up of desirable cars.

The Ateca, the company’s first ever SUV arrives just in time for winter, offering plenty of seating capacity for visiting relatives in December, boot capacity for Christmas present buying and safety features for any icy weather.

The Ateca has already opened its honours account in style, claiming the Best Crossover title on its first appearance in the Auto Express New Car Awards.

The five-seater SUV is packed with really useful new technology such as Kessy, a keyless entry and go system which is a boon when loaded with presents.

No need to fiddle in a bag to look for the keys, the automatic system recognises the key and the door unlocks. Mirror Link lets you read and answer messages through voice recognition and Top View Camera gives the driver a bird’s eye view around the car which makes parking easier. Practical features for winter include new electric power steering and a choice of two or four-wheel drive. The Ateca is impressively priced from £17,990 and hits SEAT dealerships just as they too receive a new look.

The crossover is built on parent company VW’s MQB A-platform and the glitzy launch I attended in Manchester was more like the launch of a new film as with its perfect good looks and a hint of the Leon styling, the Ateca made its debut to UK motoring journalists.

In keeping with authentic Latin flavour, character and personality, Ateca derives its name from the Spanish village of the same name which lies to the

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west of Zaragoza. We may live in the less sunny climate of Birmingham but the new exterior paintwork of Samoa orange metallic will certainly cheer up dismal wintry months, but it may not be to everyone’s taste.

There are five trim levels including First Edition.

There is a choice of five engines, two petrol and three diesel. Most popular with retail customers will be the 2.0-litre diesel and a 1.4-litre petrol.

There is an innovative hi-tech package of safety features and the Ateca has achieved Euro NCAP fivestar safety rating. An impressive residual value forecast means equally strong UK finance offers.

SEAT says it is on the cusp of its largest ever product offensive entering this new and growing SUV segment. Buyers can look forward to a face lift of the best-selling Leon in January 2017 and an all-new Ibiza in the summer, but sales of both these segments are shrinking so the Ateca is SEAT’s most crucial car ever. The AO Cross, the baby brother to the Ateca is the first of the quartet of new models which will be launched over the next 18 months.

The compact SUV market is a car segment you can’t ignore and launching the Ateca at this time will help the brand take a further step forward in terms of image. The limited run of 200 First Edition models with its high equipment list, style and a tempting price is definitely worth a look. I

SHOWROOM: Arbury SEAT, 34 Stratford Road, Shirley, Solihull, B90 3LS www.arburyseat.co.uk

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PERSON TO PERSON

CLOSE WITH…

DR DAVID CARR The Rt Rev Dr David Carr has gone from marketing for the Professional Football Association to founding the largest church in Solihull and receiving the OBE from the Queen

BEEN THERE, DONE THAT I’m senior pastor of the Renewal Christian Centre in Solihull, an overseer for the Free Methodist Church in Europe, Archbishop for the Communion of Evangelical Episcopal Churches, and the Bishop Abbot of the Order of St Leonard. Before this I was the marketing director for the Professional Football Association in PFA Financial Services. I’ve authored five books and been happily married for 44 years, with three children and four grandchildren. I started Renewal Christian Centre with four people in 1972, which has now grown to a congregation of more than 1,600. The church helps 4,000 people each year through community projects. Working with Solihull Council, our Helping Hands food bank delivers emergency parcels to 3,000 adults and children.

IT’S WHAT I DO At the age of 71, my role now is to give oversight and encouragement to leaders at various levels. I mentor, counsel, and train chaplains, and I’m a chaplain for a large group of hospitals in the Midlands. I’m also chaplain for Birmingham Bowls Association. I am a governor of Lode Heath school and a patron of King Solomon Business Academy, Birmingham.

WHAT I’D LIKE TO SEE We have nine different councils of churches in the borough and it would be good to see more visible unity. I would like to see a broken society mended; there is much confusion and fear out there and it would be great if we could all be less concerned with our own well-being and more for those who are disadvantaged.

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BIGGEST SUCCESSES Meeting the Queen when I was presented with my OBE meant so much to me because I think the Royal Family is one of the most stabilising factors in our community. Politics changes, but the Monarchy remains consistent.

BIGGEST LESSON LEARNED By wearing your heart on your sleeve you must expect people to abuse it, but it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do it. If I had my time again, I would always go with my gut feeling about things and not allow people to talk me out of it.

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT BRUM I was born in Stirchley, grew up in Birmingham and went to Bournville School. I’ve now lived longer in Solihull than Birmingham, but I still see myself as a Brummie that’s emigrated! We Brummies are down to earth and tell it as it is.

We’ve developed a beautiful city and we shouldn’t be ashamed of it because I think we can sometimes put ourselves down.

DOWNTIME I play bowls for Solihull Sports Club, Solihull Indoor Bowls Club, and Birmingham Bowls Association. I’ve also played for Warwickshire Indoor County. I chill out watching documentaries or history programmes and walk the dog. I find studying the Bible considerably relaxing.

FINALLY… Having a personal faith in God has taken me from being a frightened young boy with dyslexia from the streets of Birmingham to a very privileged position. All that I am I put down to my faith. I

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YOUNG, GIFTED & BRUMMIE

MIXING IT WITH THE BEST James Bowker is the talented young drinks supremo who blew our cocktail-making preconceptions apart fter chatting to talented mixologist James Bowker who works his cocktail wizardry at The Edgbaston, we realised we’ve wildly underestimated what goes into creating the perfect menu. For instance, high flier James is busy concocting an inventive new menu with 36 drinks inspired by Birmingham that won’t hit the bar until February. Having researched Brum’s history extensively for inspiration, sourced the best ingredients and spirits – many of them local – he’ll spend time fine-tuning the details until every drink reflects the spirit of the bar and the concept.

Earlier in the year James reached the GB finals of the world’s biggest cocktail competition, World Class, and with 100 semi-finalists and only 10 mixologists in the final that’s an awesome achievement. And if you’re imagining a room full of hip young things furiously chucking bottles around a la Cruise forget it. There are numerous rounds that require super skills, precision, knowledge and inventiveness.

Attention to detail is key, like being able to recognise five different tequilas through smell alone.

James began working in his local pub aged just 15 and fell in love with the industry. He revelled in chatting to guests and worked many events from fine dining to weddings. He started dabbling in cocktails and made a canny move to the Jekyll and Hyde where he cut his teeth learning a huge

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amount. When one of his colleagues moved to The Edgbaston and asked him to follow suit, he declined as the offer was to work on the floor and he’d got the cocktail bug.

His colleague came back and offered James a bartender role at which point he snapped her hand off.

The face of cocktails is changing and James says that over the past few years people are less fussed about the strength of their cocktails and they’re more focused on quality. People care more about what they put in to their bodies and James responds to that – organic ingredients are standard for example.

The creative freedom James enjoys makes his job pretty perfect. He’s ambitious and dedicated to making the bar the best it can be with more competitions in the pipeline to raise his and The Edgbaston’s profile further. I

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GROWING PLACES

YOUNG INVENTOR NETS SCHOOL THOUSANDS A 10-year-old girl from Oldbury won £5,000 for her school with her invention for the classroom of the future. Shajeevana Pratheevan of St James CE Primary School beat entries from across the UK in the competition run by schools supplier Viking.

Shajeevana said: “My idea will help children in the future that struggle with learning their lines whether it is for an assembly, choir or if they are in a play.”

SCHOOL REPOR T

Birmingham Livin g is committed to highlighting the best of our sc hools and college s.

Here’s our round-up of the la test stand-out ne ws and events

SHORTLISTED: The team at CORE

TRUST’S TERRIFIC

TURNAROUND CORE Education Trust has been shortlisted for a national award. The trust which runs Nansen Primary School and Rockwood in Alum Rock has been praised for turning the fortunes of both schools around. Once in special measures, both schools were rated ‘good’ by Ofsted in March – the best rating in Nansen’s 90-year history. The trust has been shortlisted in the Institute For Turnaround annual awards.

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HEALTH CAMPAIGN WIN A Bartley Green School pupil has won a Next Generation Award and £1,500 to deliver his project to tackle childhood obesity. Josh beat four other Birmingham schools in the final of the competition with his poster and food labelling initiative to raise greater awareness of the dangers of sugar.

The cash, from Newman University and Birmingham Civic Society, will allow Josh to put the campaign into action across Birmingham schools.

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GROWING PLACES

FIRST THE CHICKEN… NOW THE EGG! Tech-minded enthusiasts at Bromsgrove School have taken kit car racing to another level with their all-electric speedster called The Chicken.

The car, built by 12 to 16-year-old pupils, competed in the F24 World finals against 80 teams and finished only 0.06 miles behind the race leader – making The Chicken the second fastest kit car in the world, reaching speeds of nearly 30mph. Now the school is planning a second kit car called… The Egg.

SAY YES TO CHESS

COUNTY CALL UP Cricket-mad Year 7 pupil Amelia Bayliss of Winterfold School has been selected to play in the Worcestershire Women’s and Girls county U12 winter training programme. Amelia who is a member of Old Swinford Cricket Club, trained with first class cricket coach Gavin Haynes who is also a sports teacher at Winterfold over the summer and trialled for Worcestershire CC in September.

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Six youngsters from Hallfield School, Edgbaston checkmate their rivals to win selection to the West Midlands schools chess team. Elliot, Ozair, Eshan, Astrid and Shaya were selected in the under-11 category while Manvith gained the youngest place in the under-9s. Hallfield has consistently achieved a top three spot in the National Primary Schools chess tournament and has a British under10 champion in its alumni.

TOP OF THE TUMBLERS Year 9 Edgbaston High School pupil Amy Campbell has tumbled her way to international glory by winning a gold medal for Britain. Amy competed with the GB Tumbling Squad at the annual international trampoline, double minitrampoline and tumbling competition, known as the Loulé Cup, in Portugal. Amy’s performance beat stiff competition from other nations including Russia, France, Germany and Japan.

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ing livBUSINESS BARBEROLOGY

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After being named UK Barbershop of the Year, Adam Gore’s ‘real barber’ revolution continues apace with a second shop, celebrity clients and a growing social media following ust over a year after opening in the Jewellery Quarter, Barberology received the ultimate accolade when it was named Barbershop of the Year 2016 at the UK Premier Annual Barber Awards – the Oscars of the barber world. And while a successful business is about more than collecting nice gongs, for Barberology founder and chief barber Adam Gore it was confirmation that all the hours and hard work that he and his team put into the business had made a major impact in a very short time indeed.

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QUALITY NOT VOLUME “I think winning is down to our love for the ‘real barber’ revolution where customers come into our shop and are the centre of attention,” says Adam. “I think our Instagram and Facebook accounts have caught the attention of a lot of people; through social media and recommendations from existing customers anyone who comes into our shop knows that we can really pull whatever they’re hoping to achieve out of the bag.”

Barberology offers a range of services from haircuts and shaves to beard and moustache trims, brow tidies and even ear and body waxing. “We are very different to other barbershops,” Adam explains, “from the way

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we cut and style to the way we approach each customer. We care about what we do and it’s never about volume, it’s always about quality and awardwinning cuts.”

Adam describes the business in Warstone Lane as a ‘modernised classic barber’. While offering many ‘real barber’ services such as hot towels, perfect haircuts and amazing beard sculpting, he and his team can also provide specialist procedures such as non-surgical hair replacement and colouring in VIP rooms. “I started Barberology with the knowledge that I just wanted to focus on men’s hair in a barbershop,” said Adam.

“Looking around, there appeared to be a real gap in the market. The shop is a man’s domain where he can feel at home with friends and have a drink and a chat – a perfect hideout from the real world.”

Originally from Erdington, ex-Stockland Green School pupil Adam spent most of his childhood in the Isle of Wight and travelling as his father was an entertainer and world champion yodeller. During his career in the haircare business he has had many jobs, from working in Toni and Guy to a hair replacement specialist, before deciding to take the plunge and setting up Barberology.

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COMPANY TO WATCH

Working with Adam is a staff with a wealth of experience and shopfloor hours. Barberology frequently does show work with the biggest names in the industry at major trade events.

Their customers – from local top football and Bollywood stars to successful businessmen and students – reflect the mark they’re making in the business and in Birmingham. “We’re proud to have a big celebrity client base and we have customers travelling from as far as Yorkshire and even Paris each month to come and see us,” says Adam.

SELFRIDGES Since opening in the Jewellery Quarter, Adam has expanded to a second shop which recently opened in Harborne. “We also work very closely with Selfridges which is a fantastic partnership for us,” he added. “And our Barberology Tube YouTube channel is also set to grow and become a ‘go to’ to receive advice on grooming and style from the professionals.”

He added: “Barbering and styling as a whole is a great business to be in and it’s growing at an impressive rate. Celebrity-wise I can see it being as big as chefs in the future.”

So, move over Saturday Kitchen! Luxury Italian shave with full steam and fragranced towel anyone? I

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BUSINESS

FIRE AND ICE TRIUMPH Lisa Thompson, CEO of Birmingham’s Rape and Sexual Violence Project, has run the six-day, 155-mile Fire and Ice ultra-marathon in Iceland. Lisa was one of only 48 competitors to complete the challenge and has so far raised more than £2,000 for the Project. “I wanted to fly the flag for all children, women and men who are surviving and thriving after sexual violence and abuse,” she said. Lisa’s donation page is at https://localgiving.org/fundraising/fireandice.

BUSINESS NEWS WOOD YOU BELIEVE IT? ROB’S KITCHEN DREAM A new kitchen adds up to five per cent to the value of your home – but with costs soaring to more than £10,000 for a bespoke solution, you may need to re-mortgage just to afford one. The good news is that help is at hand as a new business has just opened its doors in Birmingham. Owned by local man Rob Patwary, pictured, Dream Doors Birmingham can give tired kitchens a brand new look at a fraction of the cost. Visit www.dreamdoors.co.uk or call 0121 314 5729

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Two groups in the West Midlands have unwrapped an early Christmas present after sharing nearly £10,000 from Central England Co-operative’s community dividend fund. A walkway will be built at an historic woodland in Sutton Coldfield after the Friends of Jones’s Wood received £5,000. Fox Hollies Swimming Club, Solihull has been awarded £4,788 to pay for equipment to teach youngsters to swim.

JOLLY GOOD

FELLOWS!

One of the UK’s oldest auctioneers is celebrating its 140th anniversary in Birmingham. Fellows was established in 1876 after founder William Henry Fellows was left with an unwanted order of bicycles which he decided to sell by auction. Since then six generations of the Fellows family have run the business. Fellows now holds nearly 100 specialist auctions a year including sales for jewellery, watches, silver, antiques and handbags.

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BUSINESS

TONI’S BRIDE AND JOY

GRAND PLANS: Tony Avery, executive director at BMI The Priory

HOSPITAL’S £4M BOOST

BMI Healthcare is investing £4million in providing better, more advanced facilities for patients and staff at the Priory Hospital in Birmingham. The investment, which will fund changes over the next 12 months, is the first phase in a comprehensive improvement programme. The phase includes a state-of-the-art cancer centre, dedicated MRI and CT unit and a new-look main entrance and lobby area.

Teacher Toni Hudgell has swapped books for bouquets by opening her own bridal business. Lief Bridal in Longbridge specialises in stocking designer wedding dresses including Benjamin Roberts, Casablanca and Victoria Kay. Toni said: “While I’m obviously sad to leave teaching it’s so exciting to be part of the regeneration of Longbridge and I hope it inspires other young women to start their own businesses too.”

THE GREAT ESCAPE A DJ and entrepreneur is bringing a successful live game concept first launched in Birmingham to Coventry. John Dalziel, aka Free Radio’s JD, opened Escape Live with business partner Jas Sodhi in 2015, attracting more than 30,000 visitors. The duo is now opening at Fargo Village, Coventry.

Birmingham Escape Live features games to escape from a locked room against the clock and has been a hit with the public and businesses promoting team bonding.

EXPANDING: Jas Sodhi, left, and John Dalziel

SHAKE ON IT: Russell Jeans, left, and Paul Faulkner

RUSSELL

SKI TIME, MUST FLY...

GOES GLOBAL The world is at the fingertips of Russell Jeans.

Part of the brief for the newly appointed chief operating officer of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce includes responsibility for the Chambers’ International Hub – launched to bring together all global operations. CEO Paul Faulkner said: “Russell’s role will embrace our extensive international services, in which we lead the way in offering specialist world-wide trade advice to businesses of all sizes and types.”

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Flybe has launched an expanded winter schedule from Birmingham – with new daily flights to Toulouse and a weekly ski service to Geneva. An additional four routes will operate for the first time this winter – to Knock, Luxembourg, Nantes and Rotterdam. Flights operate through to 25 March 2017. Flights to Geneva start on 17 December.

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WINNING BID Retail BID Birmingham has secured a third five-year term following a successful renewal ballot of member businesses in the city centre. A total of 79 per cent voted in favour of the Retail BID continuing. A Business Improvement District (BID) is where local businesses in a defined area invest together in projects and services to improve their business environment. There are more than 200 BIDs across the UK with 11 in Birmingham DELIGHTED: Jonathan Cheetham, Retail BID chair

DANCE GIRLS STEP IT UP Two Birmingham dance practitioners have been shortlisted for a national charity award. Suzanne Grubham and Becca Thomas have been recognised by Sense for their commitment to the deaf/blind community by providing weekly dance sessions for those with sensory impairments and complex needs. The pair also choreographed dance performances for Sense, including a special event attended by Princess Anne for the upcoming build of TouchBase Pears centre for disabled people in Selly Oak. AWARD: Suzanne, left, and Becca, right, and helper dance artist Rebecca Pringle

TON OF PROMOTIONS HOTEL IS COMPANY OF THE YEAR The Belfry Hotel and Resort has been named Birmingham’s Company of The Year. The venue collected the titled at the Birmingham Post Business Awards attended by the city’s business elite at the ICC. The hotel already holds the title of England’s Leading Resort at this year’s World Travel Awards as well as England’s Best Golf Course and Best Golf Hotel at The World Golf Awards.

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KPMG has announced more than 100 promotions across its Midlands offices, which includes five new partners and 12 directors. Chris Pole (restructuring), Louise Scott-Worrall (learning solutions), Michelle Kavanagh (risk assurance and internal audit), Mike Tuhme (tax) and Siobhan Lodder (tax) are the five new partners in the Midlands practice. Mike Steventon, KPMG’s Midlands chief, said: “This round of promotions reflects the strong growth in our business and our confidence in the Midlands.”

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COCKTAIL CLUB ADDS SPARKLE TO THE MIX Business professionals enjoy networking evening with a twist

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ore than 50 business professionals attended an event with a twist when SimkissGuy Recruitment hosted its quarterly Colmore Cocktail Club. Held at Chung Ying Central, guests enjoyed a cosmopolitan evening of networking and the chance to sample an exclusive SimkissGuy Recruitment sparkling cocktail. The event included a buffet of delicious dim sum and an address from co-founder and joint managing director Richard Guy. I

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1 Richard Guy, William Wong, Rebecca Simkiss. 2 Rebecca Waterfield, Harriet Giles, Arshu Williams. 3 Chris Iles, Peter Adkins, Elaine Howard, Jenny Dalby. 4 Amelia Ladbrook, Andrew Jones, Emily Rose. 5 Karyl Iles, Daniel Thompson. 6 Andrew Miles, Neil Herman, Gareth Price. 7 Alex Foyle, William Wong, Hugh Dennis. 8 Rob Pollard, Jade Warrick, Adam Dunning.

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ANNUAL BALL GIVES APPEAL BIG BOOST TV’s James Wong joins supporters at Botanical Gardens fund-raiser upporters of Birmingham Botanical Gardens turned out in style at the annual Trustees’ Ball, raising funds for refurbishment work to the glasshouses. Nearly 200 guests were serenaded on arrival by retro girl band the Glamophones. After-dinner speaker, TV broadcaster James Wong, entertained with stories of his travels and stressed the importance of botanical gardens in science and education.

Dancing was to the sounds of the Subterraneans. The Gardens’ Glasshouse Appeal was launched in 2014 to help raise £1million. I

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Contributions can be made to the appeal by visiting the Botanical Gardens and donating £100 to sponsor a pane of glass, or text BBGC16 to 70070 to donate £1.

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1 James Pritchard, Lauren Hartigan-Pritchard, Jenny Smith, Zoe Perry, Jennifer and Thomas Townend. 2 Jane Stokes, Peter Adams, Harriet Moat, Judy Taylor. 3 James Wheeler, James Wong, Philippa Pickavance. 4 Tim Abbotts, Nicki Gibberson. 5 Steve Rea, Sam McHugo, Steve Creron.

6 Tracy Horsley, Nick Simkins, Ginny and John Robinson, Ross and Rebecca Northall, Alex Lofthouse, Michael Hadley. 7 Jilly Cosgrove, Katie French, James Wong, Suzie Matthews. 8 Mushtaque and Jo Ishaque, Caroline Liberson, Dr Muzaffar Faroqui, Stephanie Faroqui. 9 Baljinder Kang, Lakhbir Kang, Surinder Kaur, Kamaljit Kang, Harjinder Kang.

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BEHIND THE SEAMS WITH BALLET STARS Exclusive look reveals costume secrets of new production eading Ladies at Birmingham Hippodrome enjoyed an exclusive glimpse behind the ‘seams’ of Birmingham Royal Ballet to celebrate the world premiere of David Bintley’s new adaptation of The Tempest.

BBC presenter Joanne Malin was joined by members of the ballet creative team who explained the intricate techniques used to produce the new costumes. A prize draw raised more than £1,000 for the ballet and Hippodrome CREATIVE education and outdoor arts programme. Prizes came from Highfield Wellness & Beauty, the Mailbox and the Edgbaston Boutique and Hotel. I

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1 Stella Mansfield, Michael Clifford, Lorna Burke, Joanne Malin. 2 Eileen Schofield. 3 Jane Spence. 4 Nicola Fleet-Milne.

5 Lesley Wilde. 6 Jayne O'Malley. 7 Suzanne and Lottie Barnes.

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PARTY CELEBRATES LAUNCH OF BISTRO VIP guests get taste of new Edmunds in Brindleyplace VIP party was held to celebrate the launch of Edmunds Bistro de Luxe in Brindleyplace. Guests included leading corporate and finance professionals and media, such as Capital FM presenter Sacha Brookes. Chef Didier Philipot created samples from the new bistro-style menu which showcases classic French country cuisine using best of British ingredients.

Laurent Perrier Champagne was also served. I

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1 Stephen Chand, Richard and Adam Cartwright. 2 Polly Hammond, Navneet Mangat, Matt Rothwell. 3 James Day, Didier Philipot, Gilles Larroque.

4 Richard Lamb, Stefanie Bowes. 5 Abigail Joy, Natalie Ann Cutler. 6 Alex Nicholas-Evans, Anton Nelson. 7 Anna Assinder, Alev Dervish, Naeem Alvi, Anita Champaneri. 8 Tom Hanna, Millie Walker. 9 Penny Michaela Winter, Zak Michael.

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VINCE CABLE DELIVERS INAUGURAL LECTURE Former Business Secretary is speaker for first Sir Adrian Cadbury Lecture

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ir Vince Cable was the speaker at the inaugural Sir Adrian Cadbury Lecture organised by the Lunar Society, hosted by Aston University and sponsored by the Birmingham office of chartered accountants Haines Watts. The former Coalition Government Business Secretary spoke on the theme of corporate governance in business. Lunar Society chairman Alan Wenban-Smith said: “Sir Vince’s insightful address was an excellent marker for the opening of these lectures which will become a highly-anticipated annual fixture in the society’s calendar of events.” I

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1 Prof Alec Cameron, Sir Vince Cable, Henry Briggs, Former Home Secretary Jacqui Smith, Alan Wenban-Smith. 2 David Clarke, Prof George Feiger, Prof Simon Green. 3 Matt Hardy, Matt Tyler, Tony Lozano. 4 Chris Brown, Darren Holdway 5 Deirdre Labassiere, Katharine Cadbury. 6 Nichola Jordan, Kevin Hodgetts, Alan Perry. 7 Jacqui Smith, Alan Wenban-Smith, Lucy Partridge.

8 Matthew Cadbury, Roger Cadbury, Henry Briggs, Duncan Cadbury.

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TOP PROPERTY FIRM HAILS ANNIVERSARY Staff and clients celebrate estate agents’ two decades of success eading Birmingham estate agents Wolfs celebrated 20 years in business with an anniversary party for staff and clients at The Plough in Harborne. Developing an expertise in property management has enabled managing director Rad Vuckovic to create an enviable reputation among the city’s landlords – many of whom have been with the business since the early days. Since its foundation in small premises in 1996, Wolfs has expanded into two prime office locations in Harborne and the city centre covering sales, lettings and block management. I

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1 Richard Suffield, Jenny Constantinides, Karen Suffield, Mandy Gannon. 2 Pete Tymoshyshyn, Deb Murphy, Pete Beddard.

3 Sunny Bains, Rad Vuckovic, Amrit Bhopal. 4 Terry Gateley and friend. 5 Andy and Sue Davies. 6 James Brady, Liam Harrold, Drew Swadkins, Mitch Jinks, Sam Deffley. 7 John Gannon, Sam Meeten, Andy Mudie. 8 Ian Park, Deb Murphy, Charlotte Chapman, Emma Murphy. 9 Mike & Brenda Csukas, Bernie Hutcheson. 10 Jan Hnatyzn with Big Bad Wolfs and Little Red Riding Hood.

Photography by Owen de Visser Photography

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JEWELLERY QUARTER WELCOMES GALLERY 4

Argentea promises to bring best of contemporary photography to Brum

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ew contemporary photography gallery Argentea opened its doors with a party. Located on St Paul’s Square in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter, the gallery will be showing contemporary photography from both British and international artists.

Founder Jennie Anderson said: “Argentea’s opening marks an exciting time for the city’s photography scene. Our aim is to promote an appreciation of contemporary photography by presenting a programme of wellresearched, thoughtful and stimulating exhibitions.” I

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For more information about Argentea Gallery and its exhibitions visit www.argenteagallery.com

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1 Robert Gibb, Jennie Anderson, Ravi Deepres. 2 Harry Blackett, Jerry Blackett, Paul Faulkner. 3 Steve and Christina Turner, Paul Anderson. 4 Gemma Wilson, Lynda Bird. 5 Prof Kevin Singh, Tracy Ledward, Jonnie Turpie. 6 Robin Gillanders, Marjory Wilson, Fiona Sedgley. 7 Christine and Rob Freer. 8 Chris Homer, Lizzy Lunn, Dawn Homer. 9 Sue Valente, Andy Paterson, Alex Nicholson-Evans. 10 Jane Robson, Greg and Jo Lowson.

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BIGGEST EXPO PROVES HIT WITH BUSINESSES Chambers’ event attracts more than 850 delegates to Barclaycard Arena ore than 850 visitors attended Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce’s autumn expo at the Barclaycard Arena. The expo, sponsored by Qatar Airways and hosted by Amplify, was the Chamber’s biggest to date, with more than 80 exhibitors as well as seminars from guest speakers including Rob Slater of HS2, WowZone’s Qasim Majid and business mentor Moe Nawaz. Forty delegates also had the opportunity to take part in a quick-fire speed networking session. I

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1 Sadish Lalli, Rajinder Kaur. 2 Eileen Fegan, Jane Jackson, Amanda Egan. 3 Charlotte Truglia, John Davies, Andrew Share, David McEvoy. 4 Upasna Kaur, Jus Chohan. 5 Sam Skillings, Sam Newman. 6 Zak Mahmood, Charlie Dolphin, Steven Jones.

7 Diane Court, Paul Faulkner, Sally Walder. 8 Charlie Hulme, Penny Westwood. 9 Jas Gill.

Photography by Jas Sansi

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WHAT: The Twang – Annual Christmas Show

WHAT: Seven Acts of Mercy

WHEN: 17 December

WHEN: Until 10 February 2017

WHERE: O2 Academy Birmingham,

WHERE: Swan Theatre RSC,

tel 0121 622 8250

tel 01789 403493

www.o2academybirmingham.co.uk

www.rsc.org.uk

These fine Midlands’ indie rockers are again throwing their annual Christmas bash on home turf for their ninth Christmas gig on the spin. Supported by Cabbage before Indie-pop outfit Swim Deep take over the decks for a festive DJ set.

Anders Lustgarten’s visceral new play confronts the dangerous necessity of compassion in a world where it is in short supply. Please note includes violence and scenes of a sexual nature.

WHAT: Strictly Come Dancing Live

WHAT: Magic Lantern Festival

WHEN: 20 to 22 January 2017

WHEN: Now to 2 January 2017

WHERE: Barclaycard Arena, tel 0844 338 8000

WHERE: Birmingham Botanical Gardens, tel 0121 212 3383

www.theticketfactory.com

www.birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk

Celebrating its tenth anniversary the Strictly tour is back with judges Len Goodman, Craig Revel Horwood and Anita Rani in tow! Experience everything that you love about the TV show live on stage.

A spectacular fusion of art, heritage and culture as the gardens are lit up by a stunning trail of giant lanterns. Includes a virtual reality experience as the latest technology transports you into an immersive world.

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WHAT’S ON

WHAT: Dick Whittington WHEN: 19 December to 29 January 2017 WHERE: Birmingham Hippodrome, WHAT: A Christmas Wassail

tel 0844 338 5000

WHEN: 18 to 22 December

www.birminghamhippodrome.com

WHERE: Crescent Theatre,

Get your festivities off to a flying start with a fantastic panto that boasts a start-studded cast including John Barrowman, Jodie Prenger and soapstar Steve McFadden.

tel 0121 643 5858 www.crescent-theatre.co.uk Mulled wine, mince pies and a festive feast of music, comedy and spoken word.

This ever-popular wassail is a magical way to indulge the Christmas spirit.

WHAT: Rod Stewart Tribute with Garry Pease WHEN: 22 December

WHAT: ABBA-RIGINAL tribute to the 70’s

WHERE: Nailcote Hall, tel 02476 466174

WHEN: 31 December

www.nailcotehall.co.uk

WHERE: The Lake at Barston, tel 01675 444890

The UK’s Number One Show dedicated to the iconic song www.thelakeatbarston.co.uk book of Rod Stewart. Featuring all the classics such as Maggie Great for all ages, dig out your 70’s gear and groove your way into the May, You Wear it Well, Hot Legs and Sailing.

New Year as this cracking tribute band performs all the classics including Waterloo, Voulez Vous, and Mamma Mia.

WHAT: Chicago The Musical WHEN: 12 to 31 December WHERE: New Alexandra Theatre, tel 0844 8713011 www.atgtickets.com/birmingham WHAT: Jersey Boys – Broadway Tribute Night WHEN: 22 December WHERE: Chateau Impney, tel 01905 774411 www.chateau-impney.com An incredible tribute to Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, The Ragdolls faithfully recreate the iconic sound of the Jersey Boys with their amazing vocal talents as they perform a medley of stunning hits including Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, Ragdoll and Walk Like a Man.

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A nightclub singer, a doublemurderess, a smooth-talking lawyer and a cell block of sin: it would be a crime to miss it. Starring EastEnders’ John Partridge, Corries Hayley Tamaddon and soul queen Mica Paris.

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WHAT’S ON

WHAT: Treasure Island WHEN: 25 November to 7 January 2017 WHERE: Birmingham Rep, tel 0121 245 2024 www.birmingham-rep.co.uk A thrilling, swashbuckling voyage that will transport you to a far away, tropical island. This breath-taking, modern adaptation

by Bryony Lavery retains all the adventure and excitement of Robert Louis Stevenson’s timeless classic.

WHAT: Barbara Nice’s Christmas Cracker

WHAT: Beauty and the Beast

WHEN: 17 and 18 December

WHEN: 5 to 31 December

WHERE: Mac Birmingham,

WHERE: Redditch Palace Theatre, tel 01527 65203

tel 0121 446 3232

www.redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk

www.macarts.co.uk

A cracking cast, lavish costumes, awesome songs and plenty of audience participation all adds up to seasonal family fun.

Starring Sam Attwater and Bad Girl’s Nicole Farady.

Kings Heath’s most famous housewife is back with her annual Christmas shindig complete with raffle, tombola and mince pies.

WHAT: Frankfurt Christmas Market & Craft Market WHEN: 17 November to 29 December WHERE: Victoria Square, Centenary Square & Chamberlain Square WHAT: Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra WHEN: 14 and 15 December WHERE: Symphony Hall,

Embrace the festive spirit at the largest outdoor Christmas market in Britain with over 180 stalls and gluwein, stollen and giggles a plenty.

tel 0121 345 0600 www.thsh.co.uk Renowned as one of the UK’s most popular tours and now in its 21st year, these shows are not to be missed and will this year feature special guests The Selecter’s Pauline Black and Arthur ‘Gaps’ Hendrickson.

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WHAT: Alan Carr – Alanatomy: The Inside Story WHEN: Town Hall, tel 0121 345 0600 www.thsh.co.uk With his unique humour and effortless stage presence enjoy an awesome evening with one of Britain’s most successful and much loved comedians. Ticket price also entitles you to a copy of his latest book, Alanatomy.

WHAT: The Play’s the Thing WHEN: Now until 12 February 2017 WHERE: RSC, tel 01789 403493 www.rsc.org.uk A permanent exhibition devoted to the history of staging Shakespeare’s plays with rarely-seen treasures on show and a chance step inside the mind of a director and generate your own Shakespearean plot.

WHAT: Antiques for Everyone Winter WHEN: 1 to 4 December WHERE: NEC, tel 0844 5810827 www.antiquesforeveryone.co.uk Seek out an unusual Christmas pressie at the largest vetted art, antiques and interiors fair in the UK with more than 240 exhibitors and a huge range of antiques to suit every budget.

WHAT: Shazia Mirza WHEN: 10 December WHERE: The Old Rep Theatre, 0121 359 9444 www.oldreptheatre.co.uk The Kardashians Made Me Do It is a searing and urgent exploration of life, love and Jihadi brides. A great opportunity to see last month’s cover girl performing live in her home town.

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WHAT: BBC Sports Personality of the Year WHEN: 18 December WHERE: Genting Arena, tel 0844 338 8000 www.theticketfactory.com A celebration of the incredible sporting achievements of the past 12 months. The arena will be packed with sporting stars so make sure you’re part of the action. Hosted by Gary Lineker, Clare Balding and Gabby Logan.

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IN THE CITY If you pop in make sure you get the Thai barista Pi to make you a Vanilla Latte – his artwork is amazing, and the coffee isn’t bad either!

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF I’m Steve Denyer and I host the Drive Time radio show on Heart. It’s like a breakfast show but I get people home at night and I don’t have to get up ridiculously early.

HOW DO YOU GET INTO TOWN? I live right next to the Mailbox which sounds luxurious, but I actually overlook the AXIS car park. Heart is based in Brindleyplace and it takes me six minutes to walk in, which is approximately two songs!

LUNCHTIME?

”

So, I mentioned that Grand Central has changed my life. I love going to the Vietnamese food place called Pho. I always order a Vietnamese salad that I can’t pronounce. Look out for the salad that has banana and beef in it. It’s incredible.

POWERWALKING?

I love the walk home from work especially on a winter’s day/evening. It takes me through Brindleyplace down by the canal side past Mailbox bars and finally home.

WHERE’S YOUR FAVOURITE PART OF THE CITY?

HOW’S THE COMMUTE?

I could say Grand Central but they've had far too much publicity already. I’m falling in love with the Colmore Row Snow Hill area of town. I used to DJ at Heart Drive Time radio host Hotel Du Vin so I know how beautiful Steve Denyer the area is. I’ve been recently to the opening of the new Gusto restaurant and The Alchemist bar.

Both share an amazing view of St Martin’s Square. At this IS BRUM A GOOD PLACE TO WORK IN? time of year it’s so pretty and Christmassy.

I’ve lived in Brum for 11 years. I’ve noticed in the last AFTERWORK PINT? two years the city is really going places. Grand Central Bank restaurant and bar in Brindleyplace has become my opening was a game-changer. Since then so many great first stop after work. It’s great for a quick cocktail. The bar new bars, coffee shops and restaurants have opened. staff are amazing. I know most of them by first name but Now my friends from other cities have started to move that’s probably because I go there too much! Try the French here and I couldn’t be prouder.

Martini. It’s a frothy pineapple affair.

If I said the six-minute walk can sometimes be a chore and it often takes me hours to get home, I’d be lying. It’s fine, although I’m still late for almost everything (apart from the show, of course).

COFFEE BREAK? We have a new coffee shop/great food place below Heart called Friska. If you pop in make sure you get the Thai barista Pi to make you a Vanilla Latte – his artwork is amazing, and the coffee isn’t bad either!

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HOW CAN THE CITY BE MADE BETTER? Just keep on doing what you are doing. The city is getting bigger and better. You just have to blink and a new bar or eatery has opened up. Birmingham is one of the friendliest and diverse places I’ve ever lived – that’s why I love it. I

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