Birmingham Living February 2024 (issue 130)

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February 2024

ADAM BATEMAN

JAY BLADES VALENTINE VIBES

& BEAUTIFUL BRIDES

THREAD ARTIST IMOGEN MORRIS SWEET DREAMS BEDROOM BLISS

FROM THE REPAIR SHOP TO LIFE IN THE MIDLANDS

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EDITOR’S VIEW

I

t’s that time of the year when men go all gooey, revealing their inner Brad Pitt or George Clooney, while the ladies brace themselves to receive a bunch of red roses from the local garage or a bottle of that cheap perfume that they actually can’t stand!

Ok, so enough already of the cynicism Mr J… Valentine’s is a time when we should take the opportunity to think about all the love for others, and in that spirit this issue is suitably tailored to our romantic side. Boys, and girls, everywhere will be taking Valentine’s Day as the perfect time to ‘pop the question’. And why not!

Assuming your other half says ‘yes’, you’ll be engaged and the journey starts in planning for the big day. Our Style pages are devoted this month to making you the most beautiful bride (and handsome groom) you can be. Our experts agree that the traditional rules of what to wear just don’t apply anymore with a growing number of couples deciding on a more casual and individual look. Yet, formal is still the choice of many. Both options are covered as we look at styles and trends to suit all budgets.

Our Food & Drink section also has some great ideas to add a dash and a splash of romance to your Valentine’s celebrations, plus our News and What’s On pages cover a host of events and gigs which lovers will, well, love!

So, enjoy this special time of year, spread the love, and even if you’re not into hearts and cupids, just be kind to others…

s n h o J d i v Da

visit www.brumliving.co.uk @brum_living

Cover image:

Jay Blades – on a mission to restore, renovate and renew!

/bhamliving

FINALIST

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

CONTRIBUTORS: Sue Cooke, Katie Gardner, Adam Kirtland 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

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INSIDE

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Highlights

Jay Blades

The star of TV’s The Repair Shop has his heart firmly rooted in the Midlands

Imogen Morris The artist whose stunning nail and thread creations are collected around the world

Food & Drink Chef’s Corner with Adam Bateman of the Grand Hotel, plus news, recipes and wine

Health Run yourself fit, and why are men so shy when it comes to talking about health?

Bridal Style Love is in the air, you’re engaged, and now it’s time to start thinking wedding dresses

Homes Turn your bedroom into a sanctuary for optimum relaxation and good vibes

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CONTENTS

Best of the Rest

50 52 54 59 64 66 february 2024

Gardening

Green-fingered expert Adam Kirtland’s what-to-do list for February and beyond

Motoring Kids are one of the biggest distractions when driving – but not in Mazda’s CX-5 family SUV

Young, Gifted & Brummie From law to cricket, Alex Laud on his new job bringing more youngsters to the sport he loves

Business News This month’s news and views from the commercial community, plus Social Scene

What’s On Best of the city’s top shows and gigs in our round-up of the must-see events

Up Close Helen Gore of Broadening Choices for Older People on hopes, dreams & ear-blasting music

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NEWS

BEAUTY AT THE BALLET After the sell-out success of Black Sabbath – The Ballet, Birmingham Royal Ballet is returning to Birmingham Hippodrome from 21 February to 2 March with Sir Peter Wright’s staging of The Sleeping Beauty in the production’s 40th anniversary year. As part of the Company’s season at the theatre, BRB will also present Sleeping Beauty Dreams on 25 February for aspiring young dancers and amateurs training at local dance schools aged from eight upwards, to experience the thrill of performing live in a professional theatre.

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

ENTER THE DRAGON

COMEDY THRILLER For the first time in eight years, the Tony and Olivier Award-winning comedy, The 39 Steps, is to tour the

Get ready to welcome the dragon! Birmingham’s Lunar New Year Festival will be held

UK – with the production arriving at the Alexandra,

on Sunday 11 February. Produced by Birmingham Hippodrome, Chinese Festival

Birmingham from 4 to 8 June. Patrick Barlow’s

Committee and Chinatown Business Association, celebrations will take place

adaptation of Alfred Hitchcock’s classic spy thriller

throughout the Southside District and include performances, family activities, craft

ran in London’s West End and Broadway and has

market stalls and a firework finale, welcoming in the Year of the Dragon. James

toured 39 countries, playing to more than three

Wong, festival committee chair, said: “Visitors can expect all the favourites from the

million people worldwide. The comedy features four

traditional waking of the Lion ‘Dim Jing’ to Dragon dances.”

actors playing 139 roles in 100 minutes of fastpaced fun and action.

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NEWS

STORYBOOK DAY Five-year-old author Jayce Joyce spanned the generations to

read from his record-breaking books at a care home. Staff and residents at Sutton Rose, Sutton Coldfield welcomed the young wordsmith who read from A Beach with No Sea and Sweet Tooth – the two works that made Jayce the youngest person to publish a book and series simultaneously upon selling 1,000 copies. Jayce’s mum Anim said: “The residents were so excited for Jayce to share his stories with them.”

HIDDEN HEROES LoveBrum, the charity which supports small and

HOMES BOOST The West Midlands is on target to build 215,000 new homes by 2031.

Latest Government figures show that in the 12 months to March 2023 the number of new homes was 15,690, despite a challenging year for the housing industry which faced rising costs for construction materials and mortgages and a dip in market confidence. West Midlands mayor Andy Street said: “These figures are good news for local people, helping them access high quality, affordable and energy efficient homes.”

volunteer-led projects and causes across Birmingham, has launched its campaign to celebrate unsung heroes. Hidden Heroes kicked off with a hand-painted mural at Digbeth High Street depicting behavioural mentor Malachi Nunes from Ambitious Lives. The mural stands as a vivid reminder of the contributions of Brummies like Malachi who work tirelessly to better the lives of others. Throughout 2024, Brummies will see more Hidden Heroes championed by LoveBrum. Full details at: www.lovebrum.org.uk

LIVING THE DREAM Mum Gemma White says she is finally fulfilling a “lifelong ambition” of becoming a paramedic at the age of 40. Gemma spent a decade working with adults with learning difficulties and had also been a lifeguard before deciding it was time to follow her dream. Now in her third year on Coventry University’s paramedic science course, Gemma, from Shipstonon-Stour in Warwickshire, is in the final stretch to seeing that dream become a reality. She originally completed an online access course during the Covid pandemic.

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NEWS

RSC SCHOOLS TRIP The Royal Shakespeare Company is taking Romeo and Juliet to school halls and theatres around the country as part of its First Encounters with Shakespeare project. The 12-week tour aimed at new and younger audiences opened in Leamington at the end of January. The schedule includes visits to Norwich, Newcastle, Nottingham and Cornwall, as well as Birmingham, Stratford-upon-Avon and Stoke. At each venue, young people from RSC Associate Schools will have the chance to get involved in the production.

GIVING HOPE

ALISON’S COSTUME DRAMA

When sculptor Jacob Chandler's father was admitted to City Hospital Birmingham during the pandemic with a heart attack, he feared he wouldn’t survive.

But thanks to life-saving surgery and excellent critical care, his father is fighting fit today. As a thank-you to the medics, Jacob, pictured, best known for his Commonwealth Games model of a bladed athlete, has created a new sculpture called Hope which will sit at the entrance of Midland Metropolitan University Hospital which opens in 2024.

The famous laugh was much in evidence as TV presenter and Birmingham Living cover star Alison Hammond tried to get to grips with her challenging costume behind the scenes of Jack and the Beanstalk. Alison was snapped undergoing final ‘adjustments’ just seconds before receiving a rapturous reception from Brummies as she took to the stage at Birmingham Hippodrome in the UK’s biggest regional panto. Her costume was just one of the glittering outfits which came from the wardrobe of London’s famous Palladium theatre.

SUITE OPENING

MOOM LANDING Looking for family fun?

Why not take them to Symphony Hall to experience Mystery and Mischief in Moominvalley on 10 February. Based on the much-loved Moomins novels by Tove Jansson, the heartwarming show tells the story of a year in Moominvalley where everyone is welcome, nature thrives and adventures are plentiful.

A leading local care home welcomed the Lord Mayor of Birmingham to open its new dedicated dementia suite. Cllr Chaman Lal cut the ribbon at the 29-bedroom Memory Suite at Austin Rose care home in West Heath. Housed on the home’s first floor, the new community hub features sports, music and garden areas, plus a quiet area and two lounge and dining suites. Residents benefit from a variety of activities and programmes alongside person-centred care for their individual needs.

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NEWS

HAPPY TALK

It was a case of ‘happy days’ at the Bullring for three days of free talks, workshops and activities called Find Your Happier. The first-ofits-kind event saw the Bullring partner with Holland & Barrett and feature a line-up of influencers and wellness experts, offering everything from body positive dance classes and high-energy HIIT to mindfulness workshops and soothing sound baths. There were inspirational talks tackling topics from financial health and working life to family relationships and self-care.

JAIL OR BAIL? Birmingham Hospice is inviting businesses to take part in its popular fund-raising event, Jail or Bail. Taking place on 1 March at the ‘Lock Up’ on Steelhouse Lane, Jail or Bail gives employees the chance to sentence their boss to a day behind bars – all for a good cause. While spending the day in jail, inmates have the opportunity to call colleagues, friends and family to help them reach their £500 bail. Registration costs £25 and tickets can be bought online.

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

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RONAN ON SONG Solihull Summer Fest has named Midlands Air Ambulance Charity as the charity of the year for its 2024 music festival from 18-21 July. With headliners Ronan Keating and The Jacksons, the four-day event at Tudor Grange Park will be supporting the charity’s prehospital emergency service, helping to raise funds that will save lives across the region. The event will be boosting the charity’s income through a variety of ways, including bucket collections and plastic cup deposit donations. Tickets at: solihullsummerfest.co.uk

PADDINGTON POWER

Two parents who are helping children who struggle with their writing have recruited the world’s most famous bear to their team. Dudleybased Love Writing Co, founded by Surlender Pendress and Mark Sherwood in 2019, has partnered to create a range of stationery and workbooks with Paddington Bear. The range includes pencils designed for small hands and an alphabet practice activity workbook with 58 pages and reward stickers, which requires minimal supervision from parents. The award-winning company is backed by the British Dyslexia Association and the Good Toy Guide.

WE WON! Families in Yardley who saved local playing fields from developers have been invited to have a say on their future.

Plans to build a housing estate on land at Barrows Lane sports ground were rejected by Birmingham Council following a 10-year campaign by residents, joined by Tory West Midlands mayor Andy Street, Labour Yardley MP Jess Phillips and Liberal Democrats Yardley East Ward councillor Deborah Harries. Jess Phillips said: “It is now up to the community to decide what to do with the space.”

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COVER STORY

TALKING SHOP THE PRESENTER OF THE REPAIR SHOP RECALLS A CHANCE STOP FOR

PETROL IN WOLVERHAMPTON WHICH CHANGED HIS LIFE, LAUNCHED HIS TV CAREER AND MADE HIM PROUD TO CALL THE MIDLANDS HIS HOME

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COVER STORY

he trademark black cap and thick rimmed glasses are ever-present. As is the London accent which has turned “How you doing?” and “You take care now” into catchphrases of one of the most popular – and possibly surprising – TV shows ever. But don’t be fooled by the genial East End twang of the front man of BBC’s The Repair Shop. Jay Blades’s heart is well and truly in the Midlands, with both his business interests and his home rooted here.

Jay moved to the area nine years ago, the result of a time when his life was proving anything but a success after a youth charity he set up went bust, together with his first marriage. With nowhere to live, he ended up by chance in Wolverhampton where he filled up his car with petrol and slept a couple of nights on the back seat before deciding he might as well stay here.

Since that fateful decision Jay has gone from strength to strength, thanks to a series of top TV shows, led by The Repair Shop, the renovate and restore phenomenon which has won a TV BAFTA award as well as the royal seal of approval when King Charles appeared in a special episode.

T

MADE IN THE MIDLANDS Last October, Jay also presented a three-part TV series, Midlands Through Time, which explored the secrets of his adopted home, uncovering the truth behind the likes of the Staffordshire Hoard, Lady Godiva, Wedgwood, the famous Black Country dialect and the Balti.

Now, Jay’s teamed up with comedy and acting legend Sir David Jason for David and Jay’s Touring Toolshed, a 15-part series which recently launched on BBC2. The show sees the twosome hit the road to help members of the public, professional makers and enthusiasts take their crafts to the next level. Sir David admits to having a keen interest himself in crafts and tinkering, so he and Jay make the perfect team, and the chemistry between them is obvious from the first minute of the first broadcast The series sees them park up their toolshed at UK air shows, steam rallies, county fairs and vintage festivals to meet some of the UK’s most talented

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crafters, makers and tinkerers – as well as people who could use a little help! It’s a kind of Repair Shop with all the bells and whistles on wheels, if you like, which also includes visiting local enthusiasts whose hobbies have taken over their lives.

Jay described the shows as “one of the best” he’s been involved in. “People come to us who have a particular problem or stumbling block within their craft, and then we team them up with an expert that allows them to go home with a skill that they can continue doing’” he explained.

DREAM COME TRUE Jay described working with Sir David as “a dream come true”. He added: “Imagine watching him as you’re growing up and then imagine you’re able to work with him. Are you kidding me? There was a moment where I just looked over my shoulder and I’m like ‘oh, that is really Sir David Jason and I’m having an ice-cream with him. Wow!” While now firmly a man of the Midlands, Jay was born in Brent, North London and raised in Hackney, East London. After leaving school he worked as a labourer and in factories before enrolling at a university as a mature student studying criminology. It was only then, at the age of 31, that he was diagnosed as dyslexic with the reading ability of an 11-year-old.

The charity, Out of the Dark, which he set up to train disadvantaged young people in furniture restoration lost its funding which is when he became homeless. But as he settled into a new life in the Midlands, TV producers saw a short film about the charity which led to his work as a presenter, and eventually to his role fronting The Repair Shop. His move also saw him set up Jay & Co, a social enterprise to support disadvantaged and disengaged groups which Jay describes as “modern furniture restorers which takes old pieces, injects them with invention, and creates something which gets people talking”.

BRUM SWEET BRUM The business follows Jay’s own love for the skills used in furniture repairs which he taught himself and picked up from master craftsmen and women

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COVER STORY

along the way. “It’s called upcycling now, but I’ve always done repairs. Growing up in a poor family we had to do that,” he explained.

Jay’s Touring Toolshed is the latest in a growing number of TV credits which has also included the likes of Christmas Strictly Come Dancing, Celebrity MasterChef, a documentary about learning to read at 51 and a radio appearance on Desert Island Discs. As well as meeting with King Charles, Jay was made an MBE in 2021 for his services to craft. And in 2022, he married his second wife.

“I’ve lived in the West Midlands since 2015 and I love Birmingham and the Black Country – it’s a place I’m proud to call home,” he said. “Everyone thinks of Cadbury’s chocolate, canals and Peaky Blinders when you say Birmingham and those things are true but also there’s so much more. Without the West Midlands, the history of the UK, indeed the world, would not have been the same.” I

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FEATURE

NAILING IT

WORKING OUT OF A SHARED

STUDIO AT THE ZELLIG BUILDING IN DIGBETH, IMOGEN MORRIS CREATES JAW-DROPPING PIECES OF ART USING NAIL AND THREAD

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FEATURE

Photography by Angela Grabowska

mogen Morris’s work is stunning, so it’s no surprise it’s held in numerous private and public collections across the globe.

Imogen’s large-scale pieces are ideal for corporate spaces, hotel lobbies and the like, while smaller commissions tend to be portraits of people or increasingly their pets!

Having graduated in 2013 with a first-class degree in Fine Art and Art History, Imogen abandoned art completely for a time. She explains: “I had all the skills and no means of practising.” It’s a common problem that artists know their craft, but can’t see a way to make a living. Imogen did youth work for a while and says she didn’t touch art for years.

In 2018 she began doing embroidered portraits for fun. She says: “I got the bug for selling. I enjoyed exposure at arts markets and attention on social media.” A friend asked Imogen if she’d seen nail and thread art which she hadn’t, so she thought she’d have a stab at it.

I

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FEATURE

For portrait commissions Imogen tends to work from a photo and the piece begins with a drawing.

From there she wraps thread around nails creating the contours of the face and building up layers to create detail and depth and ultimately an accurate portrayal. Imogen’s work is two pronged – firstly making work that people buy for their homes which is often 2D and secondly, huge 3D installations.

While Imogen’s large-scale pieces have a significant wow factor, she says these can sometimes be simpler to create than smaller work which can be more intricate and complex. A 40cm piece takes roughly 30 to 40 hours to complete.

DOWN TO BUSINESS Commissions are the main source of Imogen’s income as well as sales through galleries such as Seventh Circle Gallery in Moseley. Imogen also has Royal Birmingham Society of Artists (RBSA) graduate membership which includes free membership for three years as well as opportunities to go into exhibitions and free exhibition space on the ground floor. With membership there’s also a welcome professional development angle which looks at the business side of being a successful artist – one of the things Imogen feels was missing from her degree course.

She says: “Things have changed and I think an element of business is a standard part of arts

FOLLOW THE THREAD To find out more about Imogen’s work visit imogenmorrisart.com

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education in a more practical way now.” She would recommend any budding artists start saving and amass an amount to invest to get your business off the ground. Imogen is also part of the Prince’s Trust supported by a business mentor.

If you’re a member at Edgbaston Priory Club, you’ve probably seen Imogen’s recently installed work. Belonging is a large-scale piece recognising the impact of the pandemic on the club and its members.

Imogen used 2,325 pins representing the number of members who continued to support the club when it couldn’t open during lockdown. It’s stunning.

FIND YOUR PEOPLE While art is full time in terms of the hours Imogen puts in, she also has a part time job to ensure a regular income. She feels if the internet didn’t exist, she’d be forced to live in London. Imogen explains: “There’s value in private views and meeting people face-to-face, but I can’t afford to live in London. The internet means I’m able to sell nationally and internationally regardless.”

Not that Imogen would want to move to the capital – she rates the Birmingham art scene and its sense of community. She says: “It’s supportive and nurturing – there are so many people willing to support you here. The art world can be super elitist, but not in Birmingham. It’s reasonable and kind.”

Imogen finds Digbeth particularly inspiring and a creative place to be. Her advice to young artists is to, ‘find your people. People who will uphold you and vice-versa. Help each other and work collectively’. I

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FOOD & DRINK

ADAM BATEMAN The culinary director at the Grand Hotel Birmingham talks pot washing, street food, fine dining, comfort food – and a childhood love of chocolate eclairs and wanting to be a firefighter Tell us about your cooking I love casual dining; conceptual restaurants that stand on their own two feet even when sitting within a luxury lifestyle hotel. Throughout my career I’ve been exposed to different cuisines – fine dining to street food, banqueting to coffee shops – and I really enjoy the exposure and experience of all these outlets coming together under one roof to deliver allround excellent food and drink.

How did you become a chef?

I was never much of a cook at a young age – I was interested in becoming a firefighter. I’ve never been academic, so to raise some cash as a teenager I started pot washing and was quickly exposed to a kitchen environment. It wasn’t an easy ride from that point, but I’m proud now that I stuck with it and found a real passion for quality ingredients, designing dishes and giving guests an elevated culinary experience.

What do you eat at home?

The one thing I’ll say about chefs is that we don’t cook out of work! I am very partial to a lasagne and chips – who doesn’t love carbs on carbs? And a dirty burger will always have a special place in my heart.

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

We lost a lot of excellent chefs last year, including Michel Bourdin, Nico Ladenis and Bill Granger and I always feel this gives us an opportunity to look back and reflect on our inspirations through our career, of which there are so many for me that I couldn’t choose one. We’re lucky in Birmingham to have the number of Michelin-starred restaurants that we do and I’m grateful to my colleagues and pals Aktar Islam, Brad Carter, Andreas Antona and Adam Stokes who really push the boundaries.

Share a cooking tip Taste, taste, taste! It’s something I drill into my children at home as much as the team in the kitchen.

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CHEF’S CORNER

What was your favourite food as a kid?

Chocolate eclairs. I was allowed them as a treat from Druckers, which was a patisserie.

Food heaven and food hell?

Simple comfort food is my heaven – shepherd’s pie on a Sunday afternoon or a bowl of pasta. While I love eggs as an ingredient to make something tasty, I’m not a fan of the texture of poached or fried.

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

Sea urchin in a restaurant called Niechel in Spain that was run by a British husband and wife. We got chatting and by the end of the night I had joined the rest of the chefs in the kitchen!

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

I’d like to think I’d have pursued my dream of being a firefighter but now, as I’m here in my mid-40s and reflecting on my career, I wouldn’t change a thing.

Give us an easy recipe readers can make using those lingering items in the store cupboard Jazz up frozen chips. Put a family-size portion into a mixing bowl, add two teaspoons of vegetable oil, two pinches of salt, your choice of dry herbs like paprika or chilli flakes, and give them a good shake. Bake as normal for a really tasty tray of chips. I The Grand Hotel Birmingham, 1 Church Street, Birmingham, B3 2FE. Tel: 0121 827 9600, thegrandhotelbirmingham.co.uk

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COCKTAIL OF THE MONTH

WHITE LADY

A perfectly balanced and refreshing cocktail that’s great on Valentine’s Day to share with your significant other (lady or not)

fter all the excitement of Christmas feasts and New Year parties, February can feel like a bit of a downer for many. This Tiramisu cocktail has been specially created by the mixologists from Sky Bar at Resorts World and is guaranteed to put a spring back in your step.

As always, please enjoy responsibly.

A

INGREDIENTS:

50ml gin 25ml Triple Sec or Cointreau 25ml lemon juice, plus lemon zest twists to serve 15ml tsp sugar syrup ½ egg white (optional)

METHOD: Add all the ingredients, including egg white if using, and ice to a cocktail shaker. Shake until the outside of the shaker feels very cold. Fine strain into a chilled martini or coupe glass unless using egg white, in which case first discard the ice, then return the drink to the shaker and shake again until the egg white is frothy. Once poured, garnish with a twist of lemon zest.

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FOOD & DRINK

NIBBLES and SHORTS

OUR BARS, RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS DELIVER UNRIVALLED FOOD, DRINK AND HOSPITALITY. HERE’S THE LATEST INSIDER NEWS FROM THE CITY’S EATERIES AND WATERING HOLES restaurant that built up a reputation for serving innovative dishes in Cape Town, South Africa has opened in Stirchley.

EATERY’S ARiverine Rabbit is owned by chef Ash Valenzuela-Heeger and wife Erin. Ash’s extensive career includes working with Brad POP-UP Carter at Carters of Moseley before launching Riverine Rabbit as a pop-up in the city. The menu features up to 16 small ROOTS plates and there’s a heavy focus on wild game, as well as seafood and a substantial vegetarian offering.

STAR TURN AT THE GRAND The Grand Hotel Birmingham has teamed up with one of the city’s leading restaurants. The new Gourmet Getaway package gives guests the chance to stay at the Grand and have dinner at Opheem — the only Indian restaurant outside London to hold a Michelin star and led by head chef Aktar Islam, who featured on MasterChef and has been a Great British Menu winner. The package also includes the hotel’s afternoon tea experience served in the Madeleine cocktail bar.

BAR WITH ADDED VERVE A new bar has opened at historic 52 Gas Street which was built as a gun factory, later used as stables for the canal and most famously was once occupied by Bobby Brown’s nightclub in the 90’s. Verve Lounge boasts a chic decor combining contemporary and classic elements. With a capacity of 250 the bar features an extensive cocktail menu, plus there’s entertainment with live DJ sets and house music nights.

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GLOBAL ADVENTURE

The newly refurbished Castle in Droitwich has reopened promising a “taste of global adventure”. The pub is the first in the UK to launch Greene King’s new concept, Seared, which features drinks and dishes from around the world, including Turkey, India, Korea and Spain. A new interior also takes inspiration from travelling the globe. Rebecca Hall, general manager, said: “Whether you’re a returning regular or a new guest, the Castle remains a local community pub at heart.”

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CARTERS JOIN THE CLUB

Michelin-starred restaurant and duo, Brad and Holly Carter, are relocating Carters to private members club, Eighteen at 103 Colmore Row from 2 February to 31 May. Carters moved from Moseley to Westlands UK in Evesham in 2023. They will open a restaurant in the city centre in the summer. At Eighteen, they are creating a Chef’s Table experience in the boardroom. The couple said: “We’re keen to build our presence in the city centre ahead of our restaurant opening in the summer. Super exciting times ahead!”

DINING IN THE DOMES

Chaophraya Birmingham has launched two new private dining domes. Each seats up to eight people, offering a la carte or set Thai menus crafted by the Bullring eatery’s chefs. Adding to the experience are cocktails which include Thai mulled wine and boozy hot chocolates, as well as an array of classic tipples.

MAD HATTER’S MENU Six by Nico in Colmore Row has waved its magic wand and launched a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party menu as part of its concept of a unique six-course tasting menu which evolves every six weeks. All sorts of wonders are on the table, from mushroom tea and smoked bacon jam to white chocolate mousse with red velvet cake. But just like the White Rabbit, you’ll have to be quick to catch it – as the menu runs only until 25 February.

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SEASON’S EATINGS

LOVE COOKIES Homemade chocolate cookies for Valentine’s Day? Yes please! ome combinations are just meant to be.

Like love and chocolate. Why not show your special someone just how much you care by knocking up these lovely little homemade chocolate cookies. And to go that extra mile (and why wouldn’t you on Valentine’s Day?) you could even shape them into little hearts… you’re welcome!

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INGREDIENTS

I 250g butter, softened I 350g light soft brown sugar I 2 large eggs I 350g self-raising flour I 100g cocoa powder I 200g chocolate chips or chopped chocolate chunks

METHOD: Beat the butter and sugar together in a bowl until light and fluffy, then beat in the eggs one at a time. Sift over the flour and cocoa powder and beat into the butter mix, then fold through the chocolate chips. The mix can be made up to two days ahead and chilled.

Preheat oven to 190C/170C fan/gas 5. If the mix is at room temperature, place evenly spaced spoonfuls on parchmentlined baking sheets, allowing 2 tbsp for each cookie. If the mix is fridge cold, you can roll it into 40g balls before baking. Bake for 12-15 minutes until spread out and crusty around the outside. Leave to cool slightly and enjoy warm or leave to cool completely. Best served with a glass of fizz!

For extra indulgence, the biscuits can be dipped in the melted chocolate of your choice before being allowed to cool. And then let love take over…

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RESTAURANT REVIEW

SEARED AT THE CASTLE G

73 Worcester Road, Droitwich Spa, Worcs, WR9 8AQ. Tel: 01905 770128 searedpubs.co.uk reene King’s new concept, Seared, launched last month at the Castle in Droitwich with plans to roll out across the Midlands and indeed the country. Seared’s tagline is ‘Pub with Global Grub’ which we had reservations about. Rather than a single-minded specialist food offering, Seared’s menu is globetrotting from the Caribbean to India and there’s jeopardy in that. The danger is a ‘Jack of all trades, master of none’ outcome, but having met the people at Greene King, we trust it’s not their first rodeo.

Interiors are fresh and zingy. There’s a cracking bar area and an upgraded drinks menu with increased new world beers, wine and cocktails and decent alcohol-free options too. The bar still has the pool table and cosy nooks that the locals enjoy just with added va va voom.

The dining area feels more modern bistro than country pub and the menu, as expected, is big and wide ranging. A section of small plates quickly became our favourite thing – specifically a punchy sticky Korean fried chicken (£4.95) and a delicious lamb kofta (£5.25).

HEFTY HELPING There were a few sharing options like a plate of loaded nachos (£7.95) that would have fed four people – ideal for tucking into with a bunch of mates and a few drinks. Then there were sharing platters from around the world, including A Taste of the Middle East, India, Caribbean, South America and the Mediterranean. We didn’t sample these, but plenty of them were winging their way from the kitchen looking mighty fine. At £24.95 they looked like great value.

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Slow cooked Korean beef rib coated in a BBQ glaze was falling off the bone tender served with sharp kimchi and a crunchy slaw (£15.95). It was also served with a hefty helping of fries which felt out of place. A South American rump steak skewer served with Texan BBQ sauce (£13.95) was punctuated with charred padron peppers served on grilled veg and with a side of fries. Cooked pink, the steak was succulent and tasty and the crisp skin on fries hit the spot.

We visited on a Monday a couple of weeks after opening and the place was encouragingly busy. There were still a few finishing touches happening, but other than that, it felt pretty polished. A few dishes on the menu were sold out, but I guess it takes time to get to grips with ordering patterns and volumes. Our lunch was fairly meaty, but there were plenty of plant-based dishes too and a dedicated gluten-free menu. The danger of being a Jack of all trades we initially feared doesn’t actually matter. Seared isn’t promising fine dining, it’s a lively pub serving great value, tasty food with a fab drinks offering. I

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FOOD & DRINK

GRAPE DAY TO CELEBRATE

This month sees the official international day of the Syrah grape, also known as Shiraz. Katie Gardner of Birmingham Wine School looks at one of the world’s most versatile grapes and recommends her top wines to try he wine community loves to celebrate an international grape day, and Syrah’s day is 16 February, so I thought it was the perfect opportunity to dive into this fascinating grape. For starters, did you know that Syrah and Shiraz are actually the same grape?

Traditionally found in the historic Rhône Valley in France, this versatile grape has transcended borders and climatic conditions, finding its way into vineyards across the globe. From the terraced ‘roasted’ slopes of Côte-Rôtie to the sun-soaked vineyards of Australia’s Barossa Valley, Syrah/Shiraz has evolved into a grape with many faces, each reflecting the unique terroir of its surroundings.

Syrah’s roots trace back to the ancient city of Shiraz in Persia (modern-day Iran), where it is believed to have been cultivated for centuries. The grape then found its way to the Rhône Valley in France, where it took on the name Syrah. The northern Rhône, particularly the appellations of Hermitage, CôteRôtie, St Joseph and Cornas became the epicentre of Syrah cultivation in Europe since Roman times, producing wines of great depth and elegance.

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SCOTTISH LINK Legend has it that Hermitage was founded by a knight who returned battle-weary from a crusade in the 13th century. He chose the famous hill as his resting place, intending originally to be a hermit but was followed by others who soon realised the potential for winegrowing.

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The grape made its way over to Australia in the 1830s, introduced by the Scottish viticulturist James Busby, often referred to as the founding father of Australian viticulture. Along the way the name of the grape reverted to its Persian origin and became known as Shiraz. It is now Australia’s most widelyplanted variety with 376,000 tonnes of grapes being crushed to make wine each year!

The intriguing duality of Syrah and Shiraz lies in the distinct styles it produces. Syrah, as crafted in the northern Rhône, tends to be more restrained in style with a medium to full body with notes of blackberry, violet, and a signature black pepper spice. These wines often age gracefully, gaining complexity and flavours of bottle development, showing a savoury, almost meaty character with age.

GLOBETROTTING GRAPE On the other side of the spectrum, Shiraz in regions like Australia’s Barossa Valley, takes on a bolder personality. Here, the grape basks in the warmth of the sun, resulting in wines with intense fruit concentration, high alcohol content (often 14-15% abv!), and a robust, jammy character. The Australian expression of Shiraz often reveals flavours of ripe blackberries, dark chocolate, and a touch of liquorice.

Syrah/Shiraz has become a globetrotting grape, adapting to diverse climates and soil types. While France and Australia remain key players, notable expressions of the grape can be found in California,

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KATIE’S 4 SYRAHS/SHIRAZS TO SAVOUR I Cave de Tain Grand Classique Crozes-Hermitage, Rhône Valley, France – £16.99 from Waitrose Good quality Northern Rhône Syrah is not cheap, but this is a great value example from the other side of the river to the classic Hermitage hill. Medium bodied with red fruits, spice and savoury finish.

South Africa, Chile and New Zealand.

You tend to find that some wine-making countries favour one name over the other, emulating either the French or Australian style. Chile, New Zealand and California prefer Syrah, whereas South Africa most often labels the wine Shiraz.

Food pairings: The versatility of Syrah is best shown when pairing it with food and it can match well with a variety of dishes. For the more refined Syrah styles, consider pairing with grilled lamb, wild game or a classic beef bourguignon. The peppery notes in these wines can cut through the richness of the meat, creating a harmonious balance.

The bold and robust character of Shiraz from regions like Barossa Valley complements heartier fare, such as barbecued meats, spicy sausages, or even a well-charred steak. The wine’s intense fruit flavours and high alcohol content make it a match for bold, flavourful dishes. For veggies, try with pizzas, a hearty stew or a vegetable bake. I

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I Barossa Ink Shiraz, Barossa Valley, Australia – £12.50 from Tesco This is a delicious, bold example of Aussie Shiraz with plenty of rich berry fruit flavours and an inky black colour. Perfect with steak and peppercorn sauce.

I Marea Syrah, Leyda Valley, Chile – £13.99 (mix six price) from Majestic A wonderful Syrah from a cooler, coastal sub-region in Chile which sits somewhere in between the French and Australian styles. Flavours of blackberries and cherries with a hint of pepper and black olive.

I Taste the Difference Fairtrade Shiraz, Coastal Region, South Africa – £8.50 from Sainsburys Feel good knowing you are benefitting the wine communities in South Africa with this Fairtrade wine, with rich flavours of berry, spice and a hint of dark chocolate.

Birmingham Wine School is an independent wine education company that offers fun informal wine tasting events and Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) courses online, in Birmingham and Warwick. For more information please contact Katie Gardner on 0121 270 7359 or visit www.birminghamwineschool.com.

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HOW TO FEEL BETTER IN THE LONG RUN

IT’S FEBRUARY, AND THAT NEW YEAR RESOLUTION TO GET FITTER IS ALREADY STARTING TO WANE. BUT DON’T GIVE UP – INSTEAD FOLLOW OUR TOP TIPS TO ‘KEEP ON RUNNING’ ost of us who plump to get fitter at the beginning of a year choose running as the easiest and cheapest route to feeling better about ourselves. If that’s what you’ve done, why not go one step further and get serious – by targeting running a marathon? Here at Brum Towers we salute your ambition and want to make sure your dream becomes a reality, so here are our top tips for reaching the start – and the finish – line!

Bear in mind, if you were going to sit an exam tomorrow, you wouldn’t spend one night trying to learn everything about the subject and expect to be at your best. Likewise, preparing to run a marathon involves planning your training progressively and being consistent so that it becomes a habit and enjoyable journey towards your key event. So here we go…

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1: Give yourself at least 20 weeks to train No matter what your starting point, breaking your training up into four or five monthly blocks will give you a new focus and motivation. If you are a complete beginner, then the build-up can be longer. Spend more time building up the ‘base’ miles where you are slowly training your body to run slowly for increasing distances.

(off road, parks, footpaths, track), type of training session (intervals, run/walk, progressive pace), who you run with and when, different distractions (music, audiobooks, podcasts, conversations). As you get towards eight weeks out from the marathon, you will need to increase the speed work so be creative with treadmills, track, hill climbs and stair runs.

2: Learn to run slow The biggest mistake people make is in trying to run fast too often. Up to 80 per cent of your running should be slower than your marathon pace and should feel easy. This means you recover quicker, and progress with less injury and cope with longer runs.

7: Set yourself challenges The more you can overcome challenges during training, the stronger you will get mentally on marathon day. There are things you can do to ‘toughen’ you up – run when it’s raining, run all the hills, run laps that pass your house pushing harder each time to the end of a road, run into headwinds.

3: Set goals Setting milestones for each month or week keeps you motivated. This may be something to complete, such as running four times in a week, over 30 miles in a week, etc. They can also be performance goals such as a time for a park run, 10k or training run. Be realistic though and don’t set goals that are too high.

4: More is not always better Running more miles sounds like a great way to improve but there are runners who achieve well at marathons on less than 30 miles a week and some that run well over 100. You must progress slowly each week. A good rule is 10 per cent per week. This can be 10 per cent more distance, or time or added onto your longest run.

5: Be patient Training for a marathon takes time. The improvements are small daily amounts and by working in monthly blocks it may be three or four weeks before you see any changes in your fitness.

6: Mix it up There are lots of things that you can change in your training to make it more enjoyable – the venue

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8: Rest and recover well Rest is as important as training, especially as you get closer to the race. Don’t make the mistake of spending all day travelling or on your feet the day before. Make sure you eat properly, drink lots of water and get regular sports massages.

9: Get comfortable kit You will be spending a long time running, so clothing has to feel comfortable. Socks, vests, thermals, gloves, hats and even rucksacks and headphones have to sit comfortably so they are not an excuse to stop. Try before you buy and borrow from others to test.

10: Make it an experience Although you may have entered a big race, try to involve people who have been part of the journey.

This could be a weekend in the host city, or a day of shopping or having a celebratory meal AFTER the event. As you invest so much effort and time into this, make the whole race weekend an experience, even if the run itself does not go exactly to plan.

And finally… the very best of luck! I

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C’MON GUYS – DON’T BE SHY!

WHY ARE BLOKES SO WEIRD WHEN IT COMES TO TALKING ABOUT ILLNESS? THERE ARE SOME ENCOURAGING SIGNS THAT ATTITUDES ARE GRADUALLY CHANGING, THOUGH e all know only too well that men aren’t great at opening up and discussing health issues and their bodies. Even when it’s as vitally important as the prostate. Well, next month it’s Prostate Awareness month organised by Prostate Cancer UK, which helps to inform, educate and encourage guys to talk about down there…

In the UK, about 48,600 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year. It’s a common cancer that starts in the cells of the prostate and if you’re over 50, or you’re black, or your dad or brother had it, you’re at even higher risk. But please don’t panic – there are many treatments aimed at controlling, or completely clearing, the disease.

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SYMPTOMS The prostate is a small gland that’s part of the male reproductive system just below the bladder and in front of the rectum (back passage). It is about the size of a walnut and surrounds the urethra (the tube that empties urine from the bladder). It produces fluid that makes up a part of semen.

As a man ages, the prostate tends to increase in

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size. This can cause the urethra to narrow and decrease urine flow. This is called benign prostatic hyperplasia, and it is not the same as prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer can be slow growing. In its very early stages, it may have no symptoms at all, or only mild ones which occur over a long period. It is often only when the cancer is large enough to press on the urethra that symptoms can occur. For some people, the first symptoms are only when cancer cells spread to the bones, which can cause pain in the back, hips, pelvis or other bony areas. Like all cancers, the important thing is to be vigilant and if possible catch it as early as possible.

So, things to look out for include: I Needing to pee more often than usual, especially at night.

I Difficulty peeing – for example, a weak flow or having to strain to start peeing.

I Feeling like you have not completely emptied your bladder.

I Dribbling urine after you finish urinating.

I A sudden need to urinate – you may sometimes leak urine before you get to the toilet.

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Sometimes the symptoms of benign (noncancerous) prostate conditions and prostate cancer are similar. If you have any prostate cancer symptoms, it is important to have them checked by your doctor.

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT There are a number of different types of prostate cancer: I Early prostate cancer.

I Locally-advanced prostate cancer.

I Advanced prostate cancer.

In addition, the doctor will give your prostate cancer a stage, a grade and a risk group to help decide on the best treatment for you. Once a diagnosis has been made, an appropriate management strategy can then be determined and the good news is that every year, thousands of men are declared clear of the disease.

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

Ultimately, there’s no way of knowing if you have prostate cancer without visiting your doctor because you can’t check for prostate cancer yourself – so please talk to your GP who can do tests to find out if you need a referral to a specialist doctor. I Keep talking. For more details, information and support visit prostatecanceruk.org

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LESS IS MORE

Cosworth by Suzanne Neville

WEDDING DAY DESIGNER GOWN, OFF THE PEG OR RENTAL? THE BRIDAL MARKET HAS SHIFTED IN A BIG WAY ALLOWING MORE FLEXIBILITY, BUT WITH THAT COMES YET ANOTHER DILEMMA

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STYLE

IN THE BAG

Scallop clipframe bag ivory £50, Accessorize

ALL ABOUT THE BASE

U Plunge backless stretch bra £37, Fashion Forms

LOGO LOCO

RAZZLE DAZZLE

Pearl bow barrette £25, Accessorize

FAB FLAT

Christian Louboutin Sweet Jane leather heeled pumps £735, Selfridges

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I DO

Tiffany Hearts extra mini platinum and 0.13ct round brilliant cut diamond earrings £2,825, Tiffany & Co

Alaia Rose Marie leather top handle bag £1,100, Selfridges

Saint Laurent Opyum logo heel suede court £930, Selfridges

Soprano by Ines Di Santo, the Wedding Club at Harvey Nichols, Birmingham

BRILLIANT BOW

ARM CANDY

decade or two ago, bridal designers largely ruled the roost in terms of what you wore to get married in. The high street didn’t touch the market in a meaningful way – it was specialist. Times have changed. Brands like Whistles, Monsoon and Ted Baker are really in on the bridal action. Plus, there are brands that aren’t necessarily bridal but are absolutely worth a look, like Needle & Thread, Self Portrait and Free People.

There’s also the rental market which is growing rapidly. It ticks the eco box as well as the financial, ensuring you’re able to wear a gown that would be well beyond your budget if you were buying it outright. It works well assuming you’re not planning to treasure your gown and/or hand it down. We have experience with Hurr which we cannot fault, but there are others.

Despite those options, there’s still huge value in sitting down with a bridal designer who’ll guide you through the process in a way that you just won’t get from rental or the high street. You’re spoilt by a proper high-end designer and made to feel special.

Twenty years ago, I chose Sassi Holford and relished every fitting, every glass of fizz, every collaborative conversation. If you’re going

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GREAT SHAPE

Rosewood by Suzanne Neville, the Wedding Club at Harvey Nichols, Birmingham

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for a designer, it’s best to allow six months. Also, put the Wedding Club at Harvey Nichols on your list which houses brands such as the brilliant Suzanne Neville and Ines Di Santo, pictured. It’s well worth a look.

DECISIONS, DECISIONS Which route you take depends on your style and what type of wedding you’re planning. Work out what’s important to you – how much does the personal touch matter, what’s your style and crucially, your budget?

Shop around, be picky and don’t make any rash decisions – and remember, your other half loves you and your vibe. Aiming for the best version of yourself rather than trying to look like someone else is the best advice we can give.

FANCY FOOTWEAR Footwear really matters on your wedding day. You’ll probably be wearing your shoes for hours, so comfort is crucial, but you also want to feel like a million dollars.

Check out the old favourites like Manolo Blahnik, Christian Louboutin and Jimmy Choo at the top end and Steve Madden, Dune and LK Bennett at mid-level.

A cute flat is probably the sensible option – see the Christian Louboutin Mary Jane pictured, but there’s something about the swagger and confidence a heel triggers that doesn’t happen with a flat in our experience.

Choose accessories that compliment your gown and avoid any last-minute panics by trying everything on together in good time to iron out anything you’re not happy with. Nail your hair and make-up in advance too, so your entire look is sorted. And most importantly enjoy it, it should be magic. I

SUPER SLEEVES

Rose sequin maxi dress £650, Needle & Thread

SLIM FIT

Halterneck slim fit maxi dress £120, Six Stories

MODERN CLASSIC

Jenny Yo Hart high neck stretch lace dress £360, Selfridges

ATTENTION TO DETAIL

Floral embellished wool and silk blend dress £4,800, Valentino Garavani

MINIMUM FUSS

Dress from Pretty Little Thing

CUTE COMB

Eden floral 14ct yellow gold plated stainless steel comb set £240, Lelet NY

PEARL PLATFORM

Sacaria 120 pearl embellished satin platform sandals £1,595, Jimmy Choo

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WELL HEELED

Azia strappy 95 glitter effect leather heeled sandals £695, Jimmy Choo

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SLEEK LINES

Allegra by Sassi Holford

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STYLE FAIRYTALE VEIL

Gown and veil from Monsoon

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BIG DAY BEAUTY

THE KEY TO A HEALTHY-LOOKING GLOW ON YOUR WEDDING DAY IS SMOOTH SKIN AND MAKE-UP THAT LOOKS BARELY THERE irstly, book an appointment with your favourite skincare brand and take their advice on a routine to begin a few months before the big day – Kiehl’s is top of our list but we’re sure you have your own favourites. Also book a regular facial in the lead-up to the big day – we love the SkinCeuticals treatments at Dr Ana Skin Clinic in Edgbaston for a deep clean and healthy glow.

Dry body brush pre-bath or shower and slather on body lotion daily for super soft skin. If you’re planning to self-tan, don’t wing it. Practice with products a couple of months before. Isle of Paradise is top of the tree for streakfree bronzing. If you’d rather book a spray tan with a professional, have a trial run well in advance and if you don’t like the results switch. Be picky.

Regarding make-up, avoid over the top looks or the latest fad that won’t age well – the photos are forever. Barely there make up always looks more youthful than a thick mask-like finish. And most importantly, remember there’s no need to diet, detox or embrace procedures. Your other half loves the way you look.

We’ve picked three products that we wouldn’t get married without.

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KIEHL’S MIDNIGHT RECOVERY CONCENTRATE £38 FOR 30ML, KIEHL’S Pat on to cleansed skin before bed and you’ll look like you’ve had eight hours of deep sleep.

You don’t need to use it every night – you see the effect after one application.

MAGIC FOUNDATION £34, CHARLOTTE TILBURY If you’re after a flawless base that stays put, this is the one.

AMBIENT LIGHTING EDIT GHOST PALETTE £75, HOURGLASS Every powder you need in one neat palette. There’s powder, blush, bronzer and a strobe highlighter. It’s pricey but we’ve been using ours for 18 months and still going strong. You can always add more but can’t take away, so start off lightly and build up until you achieve the desired effect.

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Picture courtesy of Dune

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STYLE FOR MEN

TRADITIONAL THREE-PIECE Clothing from Matalan

WELL GROOMED

IF YOU’RE MARRYING INTO ROYALTY, THE CHANCES ARE YOU’LL NEED TO CONFORM TO SOME SORT OF ANCIENT SARTORIAL SHENANIGANS. IF NOT, YOU’RE FREE TO CHOOSE

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STYLE FOR MEN

IN THE NAVY Wright Cooper jacket £53 and trouser £29, Matalan

COOL CUSTOMER Clothing and shoes from John Lewis

ROLL UP Clothing from M&S SHARP SUITER Emporio Armani Tropical peak-lapel single breasted wool suit £990, Selfridges

f a timeless black tux makes your heart sing, go for it, it’s a great choice. Buy the best you can afford and get it tailored to fit like a glove. If, however you want to wear something more expressive, you really are spoilt for choice. A dusky pink blazer? Why not? Navy velvet? Yes please. A belted kimono? Sure.

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DESIGNER STYLE Take a leaf out of the bride’s book and give yourself time to get it right. Panic buying is not advisable. Focus on the fit as well as colour, style and fabric. It’s possible to spend a small fortune and still look like a dog’s dinner if the fit is off. If you’ve the budget, clearly bespoke is the dream. You also can’t go wrong with ready to wear Tom Ford, Ralph Lauren and Armani and the resulting suit will look sharp for years.

OFF THE PEG Alternatively, if you’re prepared to sacrifice longevity and quality you can pick up a suit off the peg relatively cheaply.

There’s no doubt it will get you through your big day looking sharp provided it fits perfectly. If it doesn’t fit beautifully, get it tweaked by your local tailor. It won’t cost the earth and will elevate your reasonably priced suit to well above its price tag. John Lewis, M&S and Matalan have some good well-priced examples.

And remember… try everything on including shoes and accessories in good time to avoid any last-minute hiccups! I

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THINK PINK Blazer £99, M&S BELT UP Dries Van Noten Bishop belted wool blazer £1,220 and Phoenix tapered wool trouser £580, Harvey Nichols

SKY BLUE Jacket £29.99, TK Maxx

WHITE HOT Sartorial blazer £129, M&S

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GOOD NIGHT TURN YOUR BEDROOM INTO A SANCTUARY THAT MAKES YOU

BREATHE EASY FOR OPTIMUM RELAXATION AND GOOD VIBES EARTHY PALETTE Furniture and accessories from John Lewis

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UTILITARIAN CHIC Furniture and accessories from Cuckooland

oing to bed shouldn’t be a chore, it should be restful. That rest can be diminished by various aspects of our surroundings like clutter, an uncomfortable bed and ineffectual window coverings which can affect the quality of sleep and potentially overall health. Sounds dramatic – it’s not.

Rather than stressing about the amount of sleep you’re getting, take a look around your bedroom and ask yourself if it’s as calming as it could be. Ensure you’re maximising the good vibes and banishing the negatives.

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NEUTRAL TONES Furniture and accessories from Habitat

BACK TO BASICS It’s not rocket science. An uncomfortable bed with a sagging mattress will negatively affect your sleep.

Spend as much as you can afford on your bed and mattress. Scrimp elsewhere on frivolous decorative pieces, not on the essentials. And try before you buy.

Mattresses have different densities and qualities whether they’re pocket sprung, latex or memory foam. Lie down and get into your usual sleeping position before you settle on the one. Be picky.

Also, take a look at your duvets, pillows and bed linen. If they’ve seen better days invest in an

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appropriately togged duvet, comfortable pillows and super soft bed linen for maximum comfort.

Please don’t throw away old linen that will end up in landfill. Take a look at local charities that would gratefully take it off your hands.

CLUTTER-FREE Storage is the key to ensuring your bedroom feels ordered. Firstly, declutter and be ruthless. Then work out how much and what sort of storage you need and if you’re tight on space look at cavernous under bed storage which can be a life saver. Before you buy furniture pull out all of your clothes and literally count your pieces so that you can work out what you need not forgetting space hungry bags and shoes. It’ll seem like a faff but it will ensure the end result works well.

CALMING COLOURS When contemplating colours, bear in mind that soft neutral tones are most conducive to relaxation, so maybe explore your penchant for brights in other spaces in your home. Having said that, if you’re blessed with oodles of space, high ceilings and lots of natural light, the room can probably take a more dramatic colour without feeling oppressive. We’d still urge caution. There’s a reason why spas tend to be finished in neutral tones.

DREAMY FLORALS Bedding from Matalan

BLACK OUT Minimise interruptions to your sleep by installing decent window coverings that block out light.

Bespoke is best in terms of fit and quality, but there are good off the peg versions provided your windows are a standard size. We live in an old house where nothing is standard or straight so off the peg is not an option. If it is for you, happy days.

The most obvious barrier to sleep is tech in the bedroom. Despite being easy, immediate and free to solve, millions of us continue doom scrolling late into the night knowing it’s bad for us. Banish it from the bedroom, breathe deeply and grab a good book. I

PRINTS CHARMING Bed from dfs

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HOMES

MIX AND MATCH Furniture and accessories from M&S

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HOMES

WHITE WASH Bed from Furniture Village

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LESS IS MORE Furniture and accessories from BoConcept

MARVELLOUS MARBLE Bedding from George

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BAMBOO BEDDING Panda London Himalayan pink bamboo and linen bedding £145, Cuckooland

BOLD AS BRASS Bert Frank Riddle wall single brass light £432, Nest

FINISHING TOUCHES

SUPER COOL Valencia dressing table £675, Next

FLOWER POWER Floral inlay dressing table £695, Oliver Bonas

ENSURE SANCTUARY STATUS FOR YOUR NEW LOOK

CHECK MATE Daydream checkerboard duvet set £9, Matalan

BEDROOM WITH SOME GORGEOUS ACCESSORIES

LIGHT UP Audo JWDA concrete lamp £199, Kin STYLISH STORAGE Ercol Bosco storage bench now £745 (was £945), Lee Longlands

BEST CHEST Aurelie chest of drawers £595, Oliver Bonas TOP DRAWER Bedside table £129, Dunelm

RIGHT STRIPES Fishbone striped throw £45, National Trust

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COSY TOES Orianna diamond rug £119, Cult Furniture

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BIRMINGHAM HOSPICE’S HIGHLY ANTICIPATED CYCLE SPORTIVE IS BACK AND BIGGER THAN EVER!

RIDE THE RESERVOIR Sunday 28 April 2024 Birmingham Newman University | B32 3NT

Birmingham Hospice is the primary provider of adult hospice care in the city and its surrounding areas. The charity cares for around 1,000 patients on average every day across its services, including its Inpatient Units, Living Well Centres, out in the community and in patient’s own homes. For 2024’s Ride the Reservoir, Birmingham Hospice’s Events Team will be bringing back three much-loved routes, 25km, 75km and 100km, as well as introducing a brand new 100-mile route! So, whether you’re new to cycling, a seasoned pro or somewhere in between – there’s something for everyone. In March 2023, Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice and John Taylor Hospice rebranded as Birmingham Hospice. The charity’s new name and unique identity celebrates a special 157-year heritage of care across our city, while supporting it to grow and reach even more people who need its support.

To find out more, please visit: birminghamhospice.org.uk/ride-the-reservoir

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From the Potting Bench with Adam WHAT CAN YOU DO IN THE GARDEN IN THIS IN-BETWEEN MONTH? ADAM KIRTLAND HAS THE ANSWER ebruary is a rather strange month in the garden, not quite here and not quite there – somewhere in the middle! We’re all familiar with ‘the bit between Christmas and new year’ aren’t we? Well, February is the month equivalent of that!

We’re still in winter but it feels as though we’ve got a careful eye on spring approaching us at a breakneck speed just around the corner.

But what can we be doing in the garden?

Thankfully, there is plenty to keep out twitchy green fingers happy!

F

Sow? Go! Depending on who you ask, will depend on what response you get to the question: “Is it too early to

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start sowing seeds?” My answer is: “It depends!” It largely depends on the amount of time you’ve got, how much patience you may (or may not!) have and if you’ve got the space to be nurturing baby seedlings indoors (or in a heated greenhouse if you’ve got one).

Sowing seeds now requires some extra warmth from grow lamps and usually some bottom heat too from heat mats or heated propagators, so if you are thinking about it then you’ll need some of those to get you going. Once you’re set with those then you’ve got quite a few options with regards to the seeds you can choose. You could opt to start your annuals, such as Cosmos, nice and early to give you a head start. Or in the veg garden, your tomatoes could get going now, too.

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FEBRUARY JOBS: It’s never too early to plan for a wonderful display of Cosmos, crop of tomatoes, and tons of potatoes

Savvy Snowdrops February is the optimal time to purchase snowdrops ‘in the green’. This means you’re buying and planting these delicate bulbs while they are still actively growing.

‘In the green’ refers to the state of the plant when it has leaves and is typically in flower, ensuring its success rather than buying them as just bulbs.

Buying snowdrops at this stage allows for immediate establishment, as the bulbs are already acclimated to the soil. This enhances their chances of successful growth and promotes quicker, more robust flowering in the current season. February marks the ideal window for this, aligning with the end of their natural flowering period. If you happen to already have snowdrops then now is also a great time to lift them, divide large clumps and spread them around your garden.

Chit Chat!

Late winter is the prime time to chit your potatoes.

Chitting is a pre-planting process where you encourage potato tubers to sprout before putting them in the soil, promoting quicker and more vigorous growth. To chit potatoes, select healthy tubers with eyes or buds. Place them in a cool, bright spot, such as an egg carton or trays, ensuring the eyes face upward.

Allow them to sit for four-to-six weeks, allowing sturdy sprouts to emerge. This simple step kickstarts the growing process and leads to healthier plants when finally planted in the garden. By chitting now,

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you’re setting the stage for a successful potato crop, taking advantage of the natural growing season and ensuring a bountiful harvest in the months to come… hopefully!

Summer Bulbs As the days lengthen and the promise of warmer weather beckons, now is an opportune moment to get yourself some summer bulbs like gladioli and or tubers, such as dahlias. These bulbs are best planted in spring, taking advantage of the increasing sunlight and milder temperatures. Purchasing them now allows for timely preparation as plants like dahlias are often better planted into small pots, to begin growing – before then planting out after the risk of frost has passed.

When buying gladioli bulbs, look for well-formed, firm corms, while dahlia tubers should be plump and free from any signs of rot or mould. Both do well in a place in your garden that gets plenty of sunlight during the day and not so much rain. Over the coming months, I’ll bring you some more ideas for dahlias planting and what to do with them as they grow on. I You can follow Adam on Instagram @viewfromthepottingbench or listen to Adam’s podcast Tales from The Potting Bench for more gardening inspiration. You can also read Adam’s blog at viewfromthepottingbench.com

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CHILD’S PLAY WITH KIDS REPORTED AS ONE OF THE BIGGEST DISTRACTIONS WHEN DRIVING, SUE COOKE KEPT HER COOL THANKS TO A RAFT OF SAFETY SYSTEMS IN MAZDA’S CX-5 FAMILY SUV

f you are planning a February half-term driving holiday, then take note of warnings from Start Rescue. The fourth largest breakdown and recovery service says that more than 20 per cent of drivers report being distracted by kids while driving.

According to Government statistics the company says “distraction in vehicle” is recorded as a contributory factor to collisions.

Newer cars like the Mazda 2023 CX-5 include a range of safety systems, which can help with prompts and distraction warnings. New to the CX-5 is Cruise & Traffic Support which helps reduce driver fatigue by assisting with accelerator, brake pedal and steering

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operations when drivers find themselves stuck in traffic jams.

Since the launch of the original CX-5 in 2012, more than 75,000 have been sold in the UK, accounting for around 25 per cent of UK sales. The latest CX-5 has been updated with the introduction of wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto, while the front USB ports are changed to USB-C. The styling, cabin and chassis remain unchanged.

LOWER FUEL BILLS Mild-hybrid technology is introduced across all petrol models offering improved efficiency, plus lower

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FACTS AT A GLANCE Model: Mazda CX-5 Takumi Auto Price: £41,130 otr Engine: 2.5-litre e-Skyactiv G petrol 194ps AWD Performance: 0-62mph in 9.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 121mph Combined CO2 emissions: 171 g/km (WLTP) Combined fuel consumption: 37.2mpg (WLTP)

season’s wintry weather, the steering wheel is equipped with a heated rim which automatically turns off after 30 minutes.

Quite a few cars I road test offer a head-up display which for me has become a safe driving necessity. At the bottom of the windscreen, I can glance at data like traffic sign recognition, navigation turn-by-turn direction, routing and speed limit information.

Current speed is also displayed. Other tech highlights include a wireless Qi phone charging tray in the centre console. The suspension is firm but both the front and rear seats offer good body support and comfort for the family.

fuel costs which will help with the cost of longer journeys. Trim levels are Centre-Line, Newground, Exclusive-Line, Homura and Takumi. Sitting at the top of the range, the Takumi which I road tested is a premium flagship model that combines a one-colour exterior with a high-class interior and the high levels of technology you’d expect of a premium SUV. The quality interior benefits from a 10.25-inch centre display screen and the latest version of Mazda Connect infotainment. On all CX-5 models, the Multi-Information Display mounted within the right-hand dial of the driver’s instrument binnacle features a full seven-inch TFT dial set. For this

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LOADS OF SPACE With flooded and potentially slippery roads, I found it reassuring to know that I could select the most appropriate drive mode with one touch of a switch. Allwheel drive features an Off-Road Mode that provides even better torque control on low-grip surfaces.

Loaded with sales shopping, a power-operated tailgate – standard on Takumi models – was much appreciated and reveals 522 litres capacity which increases to 1,638 litres with two seats only. The degree of tailgate opening can be set seamlessly, while touch sensors prevent items becoming trapped during closure.

Drivers looking for a smooth quality holiday drive in style, will find that the Mazda CX-5 is a sporty SUV delivering safe all-wheel drive and high levels of standard and safety equipment. And for families looking for a peaceful journey, Start Rescue is offering some free games for youngsters available at In-Car Games | startrescue.co.uk I

SHOWROOM

Johnsons Mazda Solihull, Highlands Road, Shirley, Solihull, B90 4NU. Tel: 0121 745 0745 www.johnsonscars.co.uk

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YOUNG, GIFTED & BRUMMIE

ALEX LAUD WE CAUGHT UP WITH WARWICKSHIRE’S NEW YOUTH PATHWAY COACH ON HIS BIG CAREER CHANGE FROM LAW TO CRICKET aw graduate Alex has swapped a career in law for an exciting opportunity at Warwickshire County Cricket. Granted it’s not obvious career progression, but one that means the new job ‘doesn’t feel like work’ and that’s the dream.

Aged just 30, Alex has spent seven years working as a solicitor specialising in family law while captaining Earlswood CC first XI, coaching youngsters in his spare time and training for his advanced coach qualification. He made the decision to leave his previous job before the role at Warwickshire came up, so it was a serendipitous moment that worked out beautifully.

Now the club’s early years high performance coach Alex says: “It’s certainly not your standard route into cricket coaching. I spent 10 years in total studying law and then working in a law firm,

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but my passion has always been cricket. I’ve played for as long as I can remember, since fouryears-old in the garden and then junior cricket from eight onwards.”

MAKING A DIFFERENCE He adds: “I worked as a casual coach on the pathway, learning from the team here, and a club coach for a long time as well. My involvement on the pathway gradually increased over the last couple of years and I found I was enjoying it more and more. The success of the U10s intra-county programme really was the spark for me.”

Alex started the role in November and while Warwickshire cricket is in good shape, he’s excited about making a difference. Much of Alex’s day is spent planning, strategising and working to ensure

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the club is reaching young talent while his evenings and weekends are spent coaching youngsters.

Warwickshire is already ‘extremely inclusive’ but Alex is keen to spread the net even further finding fresh talent, broadening the pathway and strengthening community links. The Independent Commission into Equity in Cricket (ICEC) report set out a number of recommendations for county pathways to adopt that are designed to identify and nurture young talent and promote cricket to more children.

STARS OF THE FUTURE While the ECB works on what the proposals might look like, Alex continues to work to boost engagement and find ways to identify talent that means potential stars don’t fall through the net.

Much of Alex’s summer will be spent travelling around the county watching and scouting. He says: “Coming to Edgbaston could be quite intimidating so I aim to take the pathway out too. There are challenges to playing cricket – facilities and equipment for example. Some children also view it as their summer sport not their main sport, so I’d like to change that perception.”

Alex says the cricket board has some great community schemes and there a couple of national schemes doing brilliant work that support the effort to boost the sport’s uptake, such as Chance to Shine

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– a national charity aiming to give all children the opportunity to play, learn and develop through cricket and the ACE programme which aims to inspire the wider game to support reconnecting the black community with cricket.

GAME FOR ALL One of the routes to increased inclusivity is the potential for budding players to be able to submit videos to show their skills. Alex says: “Everybody can put themselves forward. Biases can be avoided and it spreads the net wider. The ECB’s strategy is that cricket is a game for all and that’s what the aim is.”

Warwickshire head of high performance Paul Greetham adds: “We want to ensure access to representative cricket is ‘barrier-free’ and accessible regardless of a child’s background. And to achieve that we’re increasingly looking for proactive ways to engage in grassroots cricket, in conjunction with the Warwickshire Cricket Board, to accelerate talent development and encourage participation.”

On a personal level Alex says he’s doing something that he enjoys every day. “Cricket is in my blood and I enjoy helping young players learn and develop, as people as well as players. You can see a real impact over a 12-month cycle and being able to improve the state of cricket around the county is an amazing position to be in.” I

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YOUNG ADVOCATES

TOP TEACHER Natasha Blunt, head of Sixth Form and associate assistant headteacher at Coleshill School, is celebrating after winning the EdTech Innovator of the Year accolade at the recent National Schools Awards, held at the House of Lords. Natasha was one of eight award winners in categories designed to reward hard-workers, innovators and exceptional school leaders. Her award is particularly in recognition of her work spearheading the Arthur Terry

Birmingham Hippodrome is recruiting youngsters aged 14 to 22 for its 2024 Young Advocates programme which shapes the theatre’s work with young people. The recruits will follow in the footsteps of the first two groups whose achievements included creating Young Community Drop In sessions, which are now a regular part of the Hippodrome’s programme of events for young people, curating a stage of artists at Birmingham Weekender, and speaking at a fund-raising event which raised £10,000 for Birmingham Hippodrome’s work with young people.

SCHOOL REPORT

Learning Partnership’s (ATLP) Children’s University initiative since its introduction. She received her award from MP Damian Hinds, Minister of State for Schools.

CHARITY APPOINTMENTS A national charity which will build the UK’s first holiday village to provide free breaks for children with critical illnesses has announced the appointment of two renowned Birmingham business figures. Doug Wright and Paul Faulkner have been named as chair and interim CEO respectively of Kids’ Village which aims to support critically ill children and their families by offering a restful escape in the countryside. Kids’ Village is looking to build a resort in Wychnor, Staffordshire, comprising 10 four-bedroom lodges and a central facility known as The Hive.

SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMME Millennium Point has launched its 2024 scholarship programme. Building on a decade of Science Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) education and careers, the life-changing programme offers one aspiring student the chance to pursue a fully funded degree at Birmingham City University. The Millennium Point Scholarship Programme, in partnership with Birmingham City University’s Faculty of Computing, Engineering, and the Built Environment, is open to applications between 8 January and 8 March. In 2023, Safa Bibi, pictured, from Small Heath was the scholarship winner.

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BRILLIANT BUGSY Cockshut Hill School treated local primary schoolchildren to a special performance of its production, Bugsy Malone. Nearly 300 children from Oasis Blakenhale, Lea Forest Primary Academy and Yardley Primary School were transported to 1920’s New York during the special performance. Cast members from years 7 to 10 donned suits, fedoras and flapper frocks to dance and sing their way through the musical’s most memorable hits – with cast members Bugsy, Tallulah and Fat Sam stealing the show.

KOOL KIT

COOKERY CLASSROOM Hillstone Primary School, Shard End unveiled a new cookery facility for its pupils after receiving a donation of £5,000 from Health for Life, a programme funded by Mondelēz International designed to promote healthy lifestyles. The new facility gives pupils greater opportunities for regular hands-on cookery experience, exploring healthy eating choices and using produce harvested from the school grounds.

Headteacher Jason King said: “Our students have already enjoyed creating omelettes, bread and homemade sauces for pasta dishes since it was installed, which has been wonderful to see.”

Year 5 and 6 boys football teams at Balsall Common Primary School are celebrating a new kit thanks to the support of local business Direct Carpets & Flooring. The flooring specialists provided much needed sponsorship for the teams and the new kit seemed to have an immediate impact as the boys celebrated success in a tournament, qualifying for the next stage.

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FEELING BULLISH The Bullring and Grand Central are feeling upbeat about business in 2024 after a dozen new stores opened in the run-up to Christmas. Arrivals included popular brands such as Nike Rise, Marks & Spencer, Pull&Bear and Bershka, and Lane7. The centre’s general manager Dan Murphy said: “The sheer number of high-profile openings in the last three months reaffirms the ‘flight to quality’ we have witnessed at Bullring & Grand Central, and the confidence brands have in the in-store experience, particularly in the right city centre location.”

BUSINESS

SAFER DANCE MOVE Birmingham NEC Group’s Utilita and Resorts World arenas are the first in the UK to become members of Safer Dance – an initiative to raise awareness and combat sexual violence against women at live events. The Group has also signed the West Midlands Women’s Night Safety Charter launched by West Midlands Combined Authority which asks businesses to commit to ensuring all women and girls feel confident and welcome at night whether on the streets, public transport or inside night-time venues.

SARAH HAS BIG PLANS Design, planning and development consultancy Marrons has expanded its masterplanning and urban design team with the appointment of associate director Sarah Middleton in Birmingham. Sarah has joined Marrons following more than three years at edgeUD where she worked on masterplanning and urban design projects, with a focus on strategic land promotion, placemaking and outline applications. In her new role, she will be working with housebuilder, developer and strategic land clients on land promotion, urban extensions, mixed-use and urban regeneration projects.

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NEWS NEW PARTNER Shoosmiths has welcomed a new partner to its national real estate practice. Chris Morris joins the firm’s Birmingham office from Gowling WLG where he spent more than 16 years advising developers, operators and investors on major regeneration schemes and real estate transactions. The appointment further enhances Shoosmiths’ real estate team, which welcomed six new partners and legal directors in 2023.

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PROPERTY OPENING A development surveyor with more than 12 years’ experience in the industry has joined a leading property consultancy as it opens a new office in Birmingham. Arthur Morgan, pictured

TOP CARE AWARD

A leading local provider won the Home Care Employer Award in the West Midlands region of the Great British Care Awards. The award was presented

left, has been appointed by Fisher German as a partner in its residential development agency

to Herkesh Malhi, managing director of Caremark Solihull, and recognised his own and his team’s passion for providing compassionate and exceptional

team and will be based at the firm’s new office at Fifteen Colmore Row as it looks to take

care. Judges said: “Herkesh exudes an unwavering commitment to treating clients with the same level of care and attention one would reserve for their

advantage of the opportunities for development

own family members. The dedication is palpable.”

in and around the city.

IAN’S LIFE OF SERVICE A member of Midlands Air Ambulance Charity was awarded a Lifetime

Achievement Award at the national Air Ambulances UK Awards of Excellence. Ian Roberts, from Bewdley, who is the charity’s Care Quality Commission registered manager, has worked with Midlands Air Ambulance for 20 years, previously as air operations manager and a qualified critical care paramedic. His overall ambulance career spans more than 40 years in total, beginning in 1983 at Worcester

TECH DEAL

Ambulance Station.

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HOMES LGBT HELP Housebuilder David Wilson Homes donated £1,500 to Birmingham LGBT. The charity provides sexual health services and therapeutic support including counselling, peer support groups, meeting spaces for local community groups, as well as LGBTQ+ specific training for external agencies. The donation was made as part of the Barratt Foundation, which supports national and local charities to leave a legacy in the communities in which the housebuilder operates. The support from the developer, based at Tenchlee Place, will help the charity provide service provisions throughout Birmingham.

Commercial property specialists from regional law firm mfg Solicitors advised on a multi-million-pound land purchase for a national digital signage company. Led by partner Beth Margetson and associate Phil Hunt, the firm supported Allsee Technologies, a new technology, digital media and AI research company, with their acquisition of a plot at Birmingham’s Longbridge West development. The move to the new 2.3-acre site and 80,000 sq ft headquarters will create 150 new research and programming jobs when it opens in 2025.

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GARDENS’ INDIAN VISIT BUSINESS BITES Birmingham Botanical Gardens promoted the city’s urban gardens and natural green spaces as part of a travel trade trip to India. It’s the first time the listed Victorian gardens and glasshouses have promoted themselves to an international audience and is part of a project to grow Birmingham’s green heritage. Alongside the Botanical Gardens, the ‘Birmingham’s Gardens’ trip, which was supported by the West Midlands Growth Company, also represented Winterbourne House and Gardens, Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens and Martineau Gardens.

WARMTH BANK Birmingham-based charity BCOP has launched a Warmth Bank for older people in Annie’s Bistro at Anita Stone Court, Moor Green Lane. The Bank opens between 10.30am and 2.30pm on weekdays until 8 March. “Older people who may be concerned about heating their homes will be welcomed into the bistro as a warm, safe place to meet others,” said Helen Gore, CEO at BCOP, pictured.

“We will also be giving away 100 free electric blankets.”

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£3M CULTURE BOOST

Nine cultural and sporting events set for the West Midlands have shared £3million of Commonwealth Games legacy funding to help bring hundreds of thousands of people together in the region. Giving an estimated £11.5million boost to the local economy, nearly 700,000 competitors, performers and spectators are expected to attend the events in 2024 and 2025 to celebrate the region’s sporting, music and cultural heritage. Among those benefitting are the Black Country Festival, Birmingham Weekender Festival and Coventry’s Reggae Fever celebration.

LEGAL SWOOP

Legal specialist Talbots Law has bought well-known Worcester firm Scaiff LLP in a deal that sees it boast its first-ever presence in the city centre. Expansion plans will recruit a further 10 solicitors to add to the existing 16 staff. Scaiff LLP is the third acquisition made by Talbots Law in the last 12 months and follows the purchase of Sarginsons in Coventry and Wright Solicitors with offices in Dudley and Bewdley.

FABERGÉ FIRST JQ Diamonds in Birmingham’s Jewellery

Quarter has been chosen as the only West Midlands stockist for Fabergé as it celebrates its 180-year anniversary. As well as offering a special anniversary capsule collection, JQ will also stock Fabergé’s egg pendant jewellery, each piece inspired by the iconic original Fabergé Imperial Egg and featuring

WELCOME ADDITIONS diamonds and coloured gemstones.

Cookes Furniture has strengthened its senior team with new director appointments. Nicola Davies, pictured with Cookes MD James Pike, has joined as financial director and Simon Houghton has been appointed sales director. James said: “Nicola and Simon both bring with them a wealth of expertise and a deep skill set, which will strengthen our boards capabilities. These appointments will support the next phase of growth and development across the Cookes group of companies.”

FESTIVAL FANS: Soul star Beverley Knight with West Midlands mayor Andy Street at last year's Black Country Festival

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Orelle holds special event for 70 guests in Ground Floor Cocktail Bar

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relle at 103 Colmore Row recently welcomed more than 70 guests for an exclusive event held in the Ground Floor Cocktail Bar in partnership with Sauvelle Vodka. Guests enjoyed exclusive handcrafted Sauvelle Vodka cocktails and festive canapes designed by executive chef Chris Emery, all against a soundtrack of live acoustic artists. I

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1 Chris Ross, Ross William, Phil Nyatanga, Devante Sawyers, Curtis Jones. 2 Francesca Cooke, Alison Ann. 3 Jas and Rick Rohel.

4 Skye Round, Anjola Ajao. 5 Harriet Giles, Nandini Barnes. 6 Dips Kaur, Olivia Earnshaw. 7 Jon Abbott, Gabbie Armstrong.

8 Kodie Murphy, Emily Payne. 9 Tyne Lexy Clarson.

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Guests enjoy stories of life, love and brushes with the law from comedian of the year Nick Page aughter-maker Nick Page, a former Britain’s Got Talent finalist and winner of English Comedian of the Year, regaled guests with stories of life, love and brushes with the law when he provided the entertainment at a lunch held by Birmingham Press Club. The event, which marked the club’s 158th ‘birthday’, was held at Park Regis Hotel, Birmingham and sponsored by Solihull-based Shakur Investment Group, which focuses its investments on SMEs in real estate, healthcare and acquisition-driven businesses.

Raffle prizes included donations from Park Regis Hotel, Stratford on Avon Gliding Club, Digbeth Dining Club and Hazel’s Handsome Hounds. Proceeds of nearly £650 went to the Journalists’ Charity.I

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1 Harry Jenkins, Llewela Bailey, Jack Brabant. 2 Hazel Horton-Peppercorn, Fred Bromwich, Nancy Duan. 3 Chris Mowbray, Paul Raymer, Sue Green, George Deeley. 4 Johannah Dyer, Amanda Barnett. 5 Lesley Wilde, Helen Toomey Hesk. 6 Peter Swingler, Rhi Storer, Steve Swingler, Chris Smith.

7 Phil Oldershaw, Pat Mair, Chris Mair. 8 Sue Green, Ann Harcourt. 9 Alex Totman, Jo Jeffries, Simon Pitt.

february 2024

Photography by Steve Evans

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ing ON il vWHAT’S

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WHAT: James Arthur WHEN: 6 March

WHERE: Utilita Arena, utilitaarenabham.co.uk James is one of the world’s biggest streaming artists with more than 38 million monthly listeners on Spotify alone.

And he’s awesome live! So, come and enjoy his unique voice and style on the back of his fifth album.

WHAT: A Midsummer’s Night Dream

WHAT: Tim Key: Chapters

WHEN: Now to 30 March

WHEN: 21 February

WHERE: RSC Theatre,

WHERE: Midlands Art Centre,

rsc.org.uk,

macbirmingham.co.uk

tel: 01789 331111

Tim Key embarks on a very mild book tour to celebrate the publication of Chapters, his new poetry anthology.

On Midsummer’s Night, the real and fairy worlds collide. Let Shakespeare’s captivating comedy transport you from deepest midwinter to the most magical of midsummer nights.

The book will be there and he’ll read some poems and have a conversation with a guest interviewer.

WHAT: Harvey Nichols Beauty Social WHEN: 31 March WHERE: Harvey Nichols Birmingham, harveynichols.com/events/the-beauty-social/ The most beauty-full event of the year is back. An awesome evening packed with expert talks, feel-good makeovers, masterclasses, treatments and some surprises along the way. Tickets price redeemable against beauty purchases on the night.

WHAT: Daniel Sloss WHEN: 23 February WHAT: Bhangra Nation WHAT: Exodus Crooks Epiphany

WHEN: 17 February to 16 March

WHEN: 9 February to 21 April

WHERE: Birmingham Rep,

WHERE: Ikon, ikon-gallery.org

birmingham-rep.co.uk

This is a new exhibition from the BritishJamaican multi-disciplinary artist whose work on the relationship is curated by Orphée Kashala and includes sculpture, film, text and sculptural installation.

When Mary and Preeti’s American collegiate Bhangra team qualifies for the USA Nationals, they set off on opposing quests to dance to their own beat. This exhilarating new musical is a story about finding your true self.

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WHERE: Town Hall, bmusic.co.uk He’s sold out seven New York offBroadway seasons, appeared on US TV’s Conan 10 times, broken Edinburgh Festival Fringe box office records and toured in 53 countries (so far!). Don’t miss the all-new show by Scotland’s own international comedy superstar.

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WHAT’S ON WHAT: Life of Pi

WHAT: Caravan, Camping and

WHEN: 12 to 17 February

Motorhome Show WHEN: 13 to 18 February

WHERE: Birmingham Hippodrome,

WHERE: NEC Birmingham,

birminghamhippodrome.com Based on the global phenomenon and winner of

ccmshow.co.uk

the Man Booker Prize, selling more than 15 million copies worldwide, this is the hugely popular story

Come along to the UK’s largest startof-year showcase of motorhomes, campervans, caravans, tents and

of an epic journey of endurance and hope with jaw-dropping visuals and world-class puppetry.

trailer tents – all under one roof.

WHAT: Marti Pellow WHEN: 31 March WHERE: Resorts World Arena, resortsworldarena.co.uk The singer/songwriter is back with his new Popped In Souled Out arena tour for 2024 – a celebration

WHAT: An Officer and a Gentleman The Musical

of the 1987 multi-million-selling album which established him as one of the greatest talents to ever come out of Scotland.

Prepare to be swept off your feet with this cracking musical based on the award-winning 80’s movie. A timeless story of love, courage and redemption that will

WHEN: 23 February to 2 March WHERE: The Alexandra, atgtickets.com

make your heart soar.

WHAT: Valentine’s Candlelight Concert

WHAT: Queen Tribute with Josh Henderson

WHEN: 15 February

WHEN: 24 February

WHERE: Birmingham Cathedral, feverup.com

WHERE: Nailcote Hall,

The cathedral will be illuminated by thousands of candles for this special concert which features a local string quartet perform timeless love songs from a

nailcotehall.co.uk The remarkable Josh Henderson is one of the best in the business as he channels the spirit and charisma of Freddie Mercury. Get ready to be transported back in time with the sights and sounds of Queen.

series of favourite romantic film moments, such as A Star Is Born, Love Actually and Moulin Rouge

WHAT: Candace Bushnell: True Tales of Sex, Success and Sex and the City!

WHEN: 11 February WHERE: Symphony Hall, bmusic.co.uk

february 2024

Saucy memoirs of a cultural icon – the acclaimed one-woman show by the creator of TV’s iconic Sex and the City. Grab yourself a seat, pour yourself a Cosmopolitan and enjoy tales from a provocative, literary phenomenon.

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PERSON TO PERSON

CLOSE WITHÁ HELEN GORE THE CEO OF LOCAL CHARITY BROADENING CHOICES FOR OLDER PEOPLE, WHICH HAS PROVIDED HIGH QUALITY CARE FOR OLDER PEOPLE IN BIRMINGHAM FOR 75 YEARS, TALKS HOPES, DREAMS – AND A LOVE OF EAR-BLASTING MUSIC!

BEEN THERE, DONE THAT I worked in homeless services for years, starting out in a night shelter. I remember the first night we opened I was so anxious about who’d come through the door – whether they’d be hostile and dangerous or poorly and distressed. The years have taught me that people are people and if you’re decent to them usually they are decent back. After moving on to supported housing, running hostels, move-on houses and refuges, I worked on capital projects, learning about new builds and remodelling old hostels, before having a national role with a large housing association.

IT’S WHAT I DO Broadening Choices for Older People (BCOP) provides accommodation and support for older people in Birmingham, as well as running nursing homes. I have oversight of the organisation and ensure the services are as good as they can be – and I have a fabulous team who are all incredibly skilled.

BIGGEST SUCCESS I ran a retirement village through the first year of Covid when there was no vaccine, no PPE and everyone was scared. We had no cases at all in my village and when I left, I was told that I’d made the village a happier place to live. That made all the tough days worthwhile.

BIGGEST LESSON LEARNED I’ve always been humble, to the point of selfBCOP, 7-8 Imperial Court, 12 Sovereign Road, Kings Norton, Birmingham, B30 3FH. Tel: 0121 459 7670, bcop.org.uk

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deprecation. All this did was give any competitors fuel for criticism. My lesson – don’t over-egg your skills (lies will always be found out) but don’t be afraid to be clear about your strengths and skills.

WHAT I’D LIKE TO SEE A personal ambition would be visit China and walk the Great Wall. Professionally, I would love to lead BCOP to a point of replacing all its old stock with new, better fit-for-the-future properties. Small charities like BCOP can’t afford the costs of building these days. My wish would be for Homes England to look at larger grants for smaller agencies. For the wider community, I’d love to see an end to homelessness.

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT BRUM The vibrancy and diversity of Birmingham – there’s always something to do.

DOWNTIME I love nothing more than being at a festival with friends – for the ear-blasting music, cheeky portable tequila board, even the weary slog to the car with tents. For relaxation it’s a beach at sunset, listening to the waves.

FINALLY… There are so many wonderful people in the industry, trying to make others’ lives better. I’d like to think that one day the NHS and care industry will be properly funded so that all these amazing people get the salaries they deserve. I

february 2024

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