Birmingham Living January issue 2019 (issue 76)

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January 2019

DAME DARCEY BUSSELL

SUPER SPORTSWEAR

JOE LYCETT

SLEEP YOURSELF FIT

THE HEALTH ISSUE

KING COAL

CHEF MARK WALSH

SAVING LIVES CHARLIE CRADDOCK

MUM’S THE WORD WITH THE HALL GREEN FUNNY MAN

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EDITOR’S VIEW

Q

uestion: What’s the largest muscle in your body? You might think it’s somewhere in your back, or abdomen, or even arms or legs. The answer is, it’s your butt – or to give its correct name, gluteus maximus. The ‘glutes’ have the big job of helping to keep your body upright and move your hips and thighs as you climb stairs, and so on. The glutes are also pretty handy for comfy sitting too!

I only mention this because exercising more and losing weight are the nation’s top two New Year resolutions. A survey which pinged into my inbox revealed that more than one-in-three of us will be seeking to get fitter and leaner this month. The top priority for women, apparently, is to slim down and firm up their glutes. For guys, it’s to get a proper six-pack (I wish, I wish…)

With the New Year comes the need for us all to refresh and recharge our batteries – and we’ve tried to cover all the bases for a fitter, healthier, happier you in this month’s Health Issue.

None other than Dame Darcey Bussell gives her tips to dance yourself fit with her new regime in our Health pages. Fab-U-lous… as Craig Revel Horwood would say! Our Style section previews the latest, coolest sportswear to make you look the part as you hone down those waistlines.

And our Food and Drink pages also aim to pep you up after all that festive indulgence. While some believe no-alcohol is the only way to go in January, our expert Rob Price begs to differ as he shows how choosing the right wine can actually boost your all-round health.

Right… 20 press-ups, fast as you can please…

ns h o J d i v a D

visit www.brumliving.co.uk @brum_living Cover image:

/bhamliving

FINALIST

Joe Lycett by Will Ireland

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

CONTRIBUTORS: Rob Price, Sue Cooke, Lisa Melvin, Hywel Davies ACCOUNT MANAGER: Jane Morris jane@brumliving.co.uk PHOTOGRAPHY: David Morphew, Andrew Llewellyn PUBLISHING DIRECTOR: Jonathan Carter

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

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

Joe Lycett

Mum’s the word as comedy king talks darts, hems, seams – and his new TV challenge

Richard Billingham Award-winning film-maker on tumultuous childhood that shaped his new acclaimed work

King Coal Mark Walsh: From pot-washer to head chef – and the joy of cooking with charcoal

Healthier Food & Drink News, reviews, recipes from Brum’s restaurant scene, plus Rob Price’s healthy wines

Kit To Get Fit Our pick of the latest sportswear that’ll make you look and feel like a million dollars

Sleep Right Turn your bedroom into a stylish space that encourages healthy sleep for happy mornings

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CONTENTS

Best of the Rest

42 58 60 66 78 82 january 2019

Workout With Dame Darcey

Strictly’s Dame Darcey Bussell takes you through her new dance-based health regime

Motoring Audi’s new 2019 A6 boasts 39 driver assistance systems. Sue Cooke tests them out

Young, Gifted & Brummie Tennis ace Max Walker dreams of being a smashhit, just like his court hero Rafael Nadal

Business Award-winning Sandhills in focus, plus news and views from the commercial community

What’s On Your guide to the best New Year performances, gigs and events in and around Brum

In The City With life-saving, pioneering professor and Cure Leukaemia founder, Charlie Craddock

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NEWS

ANIMAL MAGIC The wraps have been taken off this dramatic, 80s pop culture-inspired project in Birmingham. The interior of Nocturnal Animals, a 42-cover fine-dining restaurant and a 60-cover cocktail bar on Bennetts Hill, is the work of Birmingham-based construction and interior design company, 2G Design and Build. NA’s chef-patron Alex Claridge said: “We handed a very bold brief to the 2G team and the result is something that’s unparalleled in the city.”

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

NEWS ALEX’S LOFTY ART

ANCIENT WONDER

Birmingham contemporary artist brumhaus – otherwise known as Alexander Edwards – has brought his own unique style to a new Birmingham development. The artist was commissioned by Elevate Property Group to create this striking mural in the reception area of the 40 two-bedroom apartments at Tennant Street Lofts. The mural follows on from Elevate’s commission of a striking Peaky Blinders-themed mural at its St Paul’s House development.

Thousands of 1,300-year-old fragments have been pieced together to reconstruct two AngloSaxon warrior helmets. The creations were unveiled by Birmingham Museums Trust and the Potteries Museum & Art Gallery, Stoke after experts at the Staffordshire Hoard spent 18 months using cutting-edge technology and ancient craft techniques to make stunning replicas of the internationally-important find. The reconstructions are on public display at the Hoard.

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NEWS

BALLET FIRST Elmhurst Ballet School – the school in association with Birmingham Royal Ballet – has launched Elmhurst Ballet Company, the first-ever company for the school’s Graduate Year. The Company will start 2019 with Origins, an evening of dance at Elmhurst’s studio theatre in Edgbaston on 8 and 9 February, and Sadler’s Wells’ Lilian Baylis Studio in London on 15 February. Origins will feature excerpts from works by leading classical and contemporary dance makers, including David Bintley, Kenneth MacMillan and Peter Wright.

SIR IAN’S HAPPY RETURN Acting legend Sir Ian

IN BRIEF

McKellen is celebrating his 80th birthday with a trip back

BIG ART BOOST Birmingham Big Art Project has received nearly £100,000 of funding from Arts Council England for its Twelve Tones public engagement programme for Station Clock, taking place over the next 18 months in Birmingham and Solihull.

PLAQUE UNVEIL A new blue plaque has been unveiled to suffragette Bertha Ryland in Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery. On 9 June 1914, Bertha entered the museum and attacked a painting as part of the militant campaign for women’s rights.

UNI IN TOP 100 A pioneering project in long distance optical communications by an Aston University team led by Prof Nick Doran, has been named as one of the UK’s 100 best breakthroughs for its significant impact on

to the Midlands where it all started. For one night only, on Saturday 20 April, he will appear at the Belgrade

IN THE CHAIR A new figure is set to take centre-stage as Birmingham Hippodrome hits 120 years. Glenn Howells, a Hippodrome trustee since 2012, has been appointed the theatre’s new chair. A well-known figure in the region through Glenn Howells Architects, he has been influential in shaping Birmingham’s regeneration over the last three decades with projects at Brindleyplace, Digbeth and the Jewellery Quarter. He said: “The Hippodrome is about to embark on ambitious plans with a tremendous team here to make them happen.”

Theatre where he will remember his days as part of the Belgrade repertory company which kick-started his professional career as a young man back in the early 1960s. During this time, he lived alongside other actors on-site in flats since converted into offices.

ROAST REINVENTION The Sunday roast is getting a make-over, courtesy of Michelin star chef and Yummy Brummie, Glynn Purnell. Glynn is collaborating with Rob Palmer at Peel’s, Hampton Manor to bring some fresh inspiration to the meal in a one-off Sunday lunch on 10 February. They will be serving four courses of fresh, seasonal classics with modern twists.

Diners will enjoy a wine pairing as well as optional signed copy of Glynn’s jolly Rib Ticklers & Choux-ins book.

people’s everyday lives.

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NEWS

WAR CHEST FOR RAILWAY Severn Valley Railway has been awarded £10,000 funding from the People’s Postcode Lottery to bring wartime Britain to life for children. The money will pay for the construction of a purpose-built Anderson shelter and covered seating area at the Engine House Visitor and Education Centre, Highley. Every year, 10,000 children take part in a range of educational trips at the railway – and the new project is set to make the experience even more realistic and exciting.

OZZY GETS YOUR VOTE

Rock legend Ozzy Osbourne and actress Dame Julie Walters have been named among the most inspirational Brummies following a public vote in celebration of Birmingham City University’s 175th anniversary. Joining Ozzy and Dame Julie in the Top 10 are Duran Duran’s John Taylor, Lord of the Rings author J R R Tolkien, activist Malala Yousafzai, Olympic gold medallist Denise Lewis, philosopher and chemist Joseph Priestley, poet and writer Benjamin Zephaniah, historian Carl Chinn and chocolate founder John Cadbury.

KEEP ON RUNNING TOM’S NEW GOAL Tom Ross, the voice of football in the Midlands for more than 30 years, has a new role – as president and brand ambassador for South & City College Birmingham’s InBusiness Network. The appointment is in recognition of the support that Tom gives to college projects, which help make a difference to the future of its students. During 35 years at BRMB/Free Radio, Tom provided 250 live commentary games each season, covering Wolves, Birmingham, Aston Villa, West Bromwich Albion and Coventry City.

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Thousands of people taking part in this year’s Simplyhealth Great Birmingham 10K will get to pass Birmingham Cathedral and run along historic Colmore Row after organisers previewed a new city centre route for 2019. After listening to feedback from participants and stakeholders, the Great Run Company has worked with Birmingham City Council to design a route for the Sunday 26 May event that takes in some of the city centre’s most popular landmarks, including the Jewellery Quarter.

WELL, FANCY THAT! Leading actress and presenter Caroline Quentin is making a welcome return to the RSC. Famous for her roles in TV’s Men Behaving Badly and Jonathan Creek, Caroline first appeared at the RSC in the original production of Les Misérables in 1985. She is starring in Phillip Breen’s new production of Lady Fanciful, which opens in May. Caroline previously performed at the RSC alongside Mark Addy in The Hypocrite.

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NEWS

VELO REVAMP

The 100-mile Velo closed-road cycling event is back – with a new name and revised route. Velo Birmingham & Midlands is expected to attract 17,000 riders on Sunday 12 May. Starting and finishing in Birmingham city centre, the new route will pass through a host of towns and villages, as well as Coventry – the 2019 European City of Sport and 2021 Capital of Culture – and the National Trust’s Packwood House estate. The 2017 event raised more than £2million for charities.

PLASTIC FANTASTIC West Midlands-based Warwick Music Group has been named as the Midlands’ most creative entrepreneurial business in the Economic Disrupter Awards. More than 100

BEST OF BRUM

run by the Spectator and Julius Baer. Warwick

Six local Michelin star chefs came together to produce The Best of Brum for

Music Group, creators of high-quality plastic

300 diners. Organised by Sauce Supper Club at Edgbaston cricket ground, the

brass instruments – including pBone,

companies were nominated for the awards

super-six were Luke Tipping, Brad Carter, Rob Palmer, Adam Bennett, Glynn

pTrumpet and pBuzz – that are sold

Purnell and Adam Stokes. Sauce Supper Club delivers fine dining experiences

worldwide, was chosen for its creativity and

through a series of pop-up restaurant events where Michelin starred and

scaling potential. The award was received by

NODDY MEETS LEGO

highly commended chefs showcase their food and talents.

CEO, Steven Greenall, pictured.

Visitors to New Street station were greeted by a life-sized Lego recreation of one of the Midlands’ most famous musicians over the festive break. Slade frontman Noddy Holder – best known for writing the Christmas anthem Merry Xmas Everybody – was recreated in his famous yellow and red 1970s glam-rock suit using more than 43,000 Lego bricks, taking over 260 hours to build. The sculpture was commissioned by Retail BID Birmingham,

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

the Business Improvement District for the city centre retail area.

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COVER STORY

“

”

Getting off the train at New Street station is one of my favourite things – I’m back home in Brum!

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COVER STORY

MUM’S THE WORD AS COMEDIAN JOE LYCETT TALKS TO DAVID JOHNS

IN STITCHES ABOUT TAKING OVER FROM CLAUDIA WINKLEMAN AS HOST OF THE NEW SERIES OF THE GREAT BRITISH SEWING BEE – AND WHY HE IS PROUDER THAN EVER TO BE A TRUE BRUMMIE

oe Lycett admits he was “lost for words” when he was asked to take over from Claudia Winkleman as host of the upcoming series of the Great British Sewing Bee. The offer to front the popular BBC Two show was so left-field that even the Hall Green comedy king was initially flummoxed.

“I didn’t know the first thing about sewing or dressmaking, or darts, or hems, or anything like that,” said Joe. “But the show has always been one of my mum’s favourite programmes – so I knew that I daren’t turn it down – and I learned loads, too. Now, I can sew!”

The Great British Sewing Bee airs in May and we talked to Joe as he was putting the finishing touches to the series, recording final voice-overs. He says filming and meeting the show’s needlework contestants was ‘a blast’.

“They are all so talented and lovely people.” All he’s waiting for now is mum’s official approval that he has done a good job when she tunes in to watch. “It’s always been a hit with mum – I just hope it will still be!” he said.

J

WATCHDOG WITH JOKES The Sewing Bee is the latest in a line of very different challenges for Joe. Fans of Strictly Come Dancing will doubtless have seen him fronting BBC’s new Saturday night game show The Time It Takes with fellow Brummie and Birmingham Living cover star, Alison Hammond. “I’m delighted the show seems to have been really popular with viewers,” said Joe. “And it was a joy to work with Alison – she is just so brilliant.”

As we spoke, Joe was already well into planning his next TV project. Clearly unable to say too much before the event, he was prepared to reveal it is a Channel 4 series which is “a comedy consumer show – a kind of Watchdog with jokes”. He is due in the

january 2019

studio for production this month and next.

Joe is best known as a stand-up and regular on some of TV’s biggest comedy shows – from Live At The Apollo and 8 Out of 10 Cats to Never Mind The Buzzcocks and Would I Lie To You? He’s a passionate Brummie who says he only ever bases himself away from his home in Kings Heath when work demands – most often in London. Mum and dad still live in Hall Green and his sister is in Solihull.

TAKING THE PISS? Joe attended King Edward VI Five Ways School and says: “I didn’t feel like I was particularly funny when I was at school but I was voted as such by the other kids.” Having studied drama and English at Manchester University, Joe visited the city’s Comedy Store to watch a show. “Someone asked ‘Does anyone in the audience want to come up on stage and give it a go?’ I was pissed to be honest and I thought ‘Why not!’ Later, when I had sobered up, I thought to myself that I enjoyed it and could maybe do comedy.”

After winning various awards, including a Student Comedian of the Year title, Joe made his stand-up debut in 2012 and was nominated for Best Newcomer at the Edinburgh Comedy Awards. He has since become a household name and one of the country’s best and most popular comedians.

He admits that juggling stand-up with TV is tricky.

“Stand-up takes a long time to put together,” he says.

“But it is really cool. There is nothing like a live audience and you have so much creative control with stand-up. No one is telling you what you have to do and every night you can change things around if you want to suit the different audiences. Being in

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“

COVER STORY

”

Coming soon… a Channel 4 series which is a comedy consumer show – a kind of Watchdog with jokes

Birmingham is also great with the logistics of stand-up. You’re right in the centre of the country, so it’s easy to get to places, perform and get back.”

BUZZING BRUM Joe is immensely proud of his home city.

“Getting off the train at New Street station is one of my favourite things,” he says. “I’m back home and Birmingham is such an exciting place to be right now. People are really investing in the city.

The Birmingham I grew up in was just kind of plodding along but now it is racing ahead, vibrant and exciting. There’s a real buzz.”

Joe applauds the rise of Birmingham’s foodie scene with its multi-Michelin star chefs and huge variety of cuisine to suit all tastes. But he adds: “Culturally it is proving more difficult. I think historically that Birmingham people are a bit risk averse. It’s hard to get an act in front of a lot of people if they haven’t seen it on the telly first.

They like to know what they are getting. We need to change that way of thinking – although I know that there is some amazing stuff happening in Digbeth these days!”

FAIR DINKUM With such a busy 2019 TV schedule, Joe says he just hasn’t got the time to tour right now. He is planning to “do a bit of stand-up” in Australia.

“I’ve been to Oz on and off a few times over the years and it’s a cool place to go. The gigs are good over there and the weather is nice and hot, too. So I can do a bit of work but have a break and relax too.” He says he’s waiting on a few projects to happen, including “pitching an idea to Channel 4 that involves and centres around Brum”. We can’t wait for that one to happen! I

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FEATURE

CAUGHT ON FILM AWARD-WINNING PHOTOGRAPHER AND FILM-MAKER RICHARD

BILLINGHAM TALKS TO SHELLEY CARTER ABOUT THE TUMULTUOUS CHILDHOOD THAT INSPIRED HIS CRITICALLY-ACCLAIMED WORK hotographer and film-maker Richard Billingham grew up on the wrong side of the tracks in Cradley Heath in a chaotic family set-up which he has documented over the years through gritty photography that’s both moving and unsettling. He’s now immortalised his late parents Ray and Liz in a film of the same name.

The film about Richard’s childhood focuses on his parents’ relationship and their effects on him and his brother. The work won the annual £50,000 bursary as part of the IWC Schaffhausen Filmmaker award in association with the British Film Institute.

The most significant bursary of its kind in the UK film industry, it’s designed to support the future careers of exceptional homegrown talent affording them financial stability and a chance to develop creatively.

More accolades followed at the British Independent Film Awards last month where Ray and Liz scooped two gongs with Richard taking the Douglas Hickox Award for best debut director with the film’s producer, Jacqui Davies, winning an award for Breakthrough Producer.

P

SOCIAL MOBILITY No stranger to recognition, Richard was the first recipient of the Deutsche Borse photography prize in 1997 and was nominated for the Turner Prize in 2001. He was part of Charles Saatchi’s YBA exhibition in the Nineties alongside Damien Hirst and his contemporaries and Richard’s work is held in collections including the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, New York’s Metropolitan Museum, the V&A and Tate Galleries.

Given his tough start in life, Richard’s success is extraordinary.

Recently, social mobility feels like a buzz term that politicians bang on about in Parliament that means little. However, Richard’s stable adult life would have been thoroughly alien to his parents. He says: “I spent six years stacking shelves in Kwik Save. I fit into this world much more than that one. I have three children and I’m middle-aged. I look at my children. They have a

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FEATURE

CLOSE TO HOME: A scene from Richard’s acclaimed film, Ray and Liz

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FEATURE

nice life, clean pyjamas, go to good state schools and it makes me realise how different it is to my childhood.”

STRAIGHT AND NARROW Richard’s route out of his troubled upbringing was art and nature. He explains: “I was always the best drawer at school. I’d look outside the school gate and remember the cars and houses and recreate them. I always wanted to be an artist.”

Aged 10, Richard got interested in nature but he didn’t have any money to catch the bus to go the countryside, so he’d walk. He remembers: “Art and an affinity with nature kept me on the straight and narrow. I liked school. I wanted to learn and I was fairly popular largely thanks to my mysterious drawing ability.”

And were his parents supportive? “They were totally indifferent.”

Richard went on to study science A-Levels followed by a degree in painting, but quickly changed tack. “While studying, I took photos of my close family so I could paint them but I realised the photos were better than the paintings, so I switched courses.” Initially, Richard wanted to create a gallery installation about his father’s lifestyle. He explains: “It was about the tragedy of the situation. My father would lock himself away in the marital bedroom drinking strong home brew. He’d drink, sleep, drink some more. I wrote it and got funding.” Richard then wrote another piece centred on his uncle and planned a third about his mother. “I thought if I wrote another, I’d have a film in three loose parts.” Cue Ray and Liz. NEW YORK TRIUMPH Produced by Jacqui Davies at Primitive and shot on location in the Midlands with funding from Arts Council Wales among other organisations, Ray and Liz has been well received by audiences.

Unfolding in three parts, the film is uncomfortable and shocking, absorbing and moving in equal measure and as a first feature film a cracking introduction. We caught up with Richard on his return from the New York Film Festival where it was hailed a triumph. He modestly says: “People really liked it which was emotional.”

The British Film Institute bursary, which was presented by leading director Edgar Wright at a swanky award ceremony in London, will make a big difference to Richard’s life allowing him to focus on film and potentially give up the day job – he currently teaches fine art at the University of Gloucester. He says: “I’ve lots of ideas. Funding gets easier once you have a short gallery. No one’s going to give you £100k without seeing work. Perhaps that’s why most film-makers create short films first.”

Now based in Wales, Richard comes back to the Midlands a lot and despite his troubled upbringing, he’s fond of the region and believes where you’re born is important. He says: “It’s special in the way that wherever somebody grew up it’s special.” I

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FOOD & DRINK

KING COAL

Head chef of the Pint Shop Birmingham, Mark Walsh, previously worked at award-winning Opus and Harvey Nichols restaurants Tell us about your cooking I like to keep things simple, respect the ingredients and the equipment and the fire. At the Pint Shop we’ve designed a menu that uses a lot of coal cooking, using an awesome charcoal spit roast and grill. It’s a really cool way to cook because you have to control it and feel and understand how it works. It’s not like your average chargrill or oven!

How did you become a chef?

I was looking for a job when I first moved to England from Northern Ireland and I had been a silver service waiter part-time, but no one understood my accent (some still don’t!!) so I asked the local pub if I could wash up or fry chips. After two shifts the head chef wouldn’t allow me to do pots and wanted me to help him out on the food side. I had enrolled at college in York doing construction but after a few months working in the kitchens it felt so natural and in my blood. I moved to Middlethrope Hall Hotel in York to work for a couple of years then spent a few more at Studley Priory before joining the Castle Hotel in Taunton, initially as a Chef de Partie, then Senior Sous Chef where we were able to retain three rosettes and a Michelin star. My main influences would be my father, Marco and Escoffier. My family is and has always been supportive in everything I have done throughout my career.

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What do you eat when at home?

In truth, probably not the healthiest things.

Anything from tacos to stir-fry to roast chicken dinners.

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

I’d probably say Joel Robuchon is one of the best chefs in the world. As the owner of 12 restaurants with more than 28 Michelin stars to his name, I’d say he’s pretty good! Brum has so many fantastic chefs, all of them have different styles and qualities. There are a few I have yet to try so I’ll have to wait to finish the list of restaurants before I give you my final answer.

Is the customer always right?

Oh, yeah always. Everyone can have an opinion.

Share a cooking tip Don’t add salt to water when boiling eggs – it makes them harder to peel.

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CHEF’S CORNER

MARK’S DEEP FRIED CAPRICORN GOAT’S CHEESE & RED PEPPER MARMALADE What was your favourite food as a kid?

I loved dulse. It’s a type of seaweed that has a lovely salty flavour.

For the red pepper marmalade: I 2.5 kg red peppers I 1kg red onions I 100ml sherry vinegar I 30g garlic Method: Slice down the red onions and garlic and sweat down until

Food heaven and hell?

Truffles ,white and black – both are heaven. Hell is anything with nutmeg.

translucent. Slice the red peppers and add and cook down

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

Squirrel, which we de-boned and made into a ballotine. Really nice but a bit gamey though…

For the balsamic puree: I 400ml balsamic vinegar

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

Well, I’d probably be a divorced architect!

What do you recommend from this evening’s menu?

Our now-famous onion bhaji scotch egg, tandoori chicken flatbread and the octopus carpaccio. I’d finish with the lemon meringue fool. I

until it becomes sticky. Then deglaze with the sherry vinegar.

Serve with a shortbread biscuit or tuille – perfect for dunking!

I 2g agar

I 50ml maple syrup

Method: Bring the vinegar to the boil and add the maple syrup, check the levels. Add the agar, cook for five minutes, chill and blitz pass and bottle for service.

Preparing the goat’s cheese: Take five Capricorn Somerset goat’s cheese, cut in half and pane two or three times. (Pane cooking is simply about passing food through seasoned flour, beaten egg and white breadcrumbs to give your food a coating.) Heat a large non-

Pint Shop Birmingham, 38 Bennetts Hill, B2 5SN. Tel: 0121 236 9039 www.pintshop.co.uk

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stick frying pan (or griddle pan) and over a gentle heat brown the goat’s cheese for one to two minutes on each side.

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SEASON’S EATINGS

PURPLETPATCH his untidy-looking, colourful cousin of broccoli can be used in much the same way.

Leafier and deeper in colour, it adds vibrancy and crunch to vegetable dishes. It’s just coming into season in January so a good time to plan something properly healthy and tasty. To prepare, just trim off the woody stem ends, divide into small, individual florets each with a short stem and rinse under cold water.

PURPLE SPROUTING BROCCOLI WITH GARLIC AND SESAME Ingredients

450g purple sprouting broccoli

2 tbsp groundnut oil or vegetable oil 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil

5 garlic cloves, peeled and very finely sliced 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

METHOD: Fill a large pan with salted water, bring to the boil and add the prepared broccoli. Put the lid on, quickly bring the water back to the boil, then remove the lid and simmer for about 2 minutes.

Remove the pan and drain the broccoli thoroughly.

Add both the oils to a separate pan and over a medium heat fry the garlic for 2 to 3 minutes until the slices are light golden. Throw in the broccoli and fry for another 2 to 3 minutes, tossing frequently, until the stalks are piping hot and infused with the oil.

Sprinkle with the sesame seeds and enjoy!

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FOOD & DRINK

NIBBLES and SHORTS

BIRMINGHAM HAS A LIVELY AND BUZZING BAR AND RESTAURANT SCENE. HERE, WE PRESENT OUR INSIDER GUIDE TO WHAT’S GOING ON IN YOUR CITY’S EATERIES AND DRINKING DENS

HOORAY FOR HENRYS Henrys Cantonese in St Paul’s Square, Birmingham, has re-opened under new management. The restaurant is open for service from 3pm until 10.30pm every day and also boasts a function room for hire which can hold up to 40 people for larger groups, parties and corporate events.

ROBERT TAKES TOP TITLE

MAGIC OF MANHATTAN The Manhattan skyline has come to John

NEPALESE GEM OPENS IN JQ

Award-winning Nepalese restaurant Jojolapa has opened in the Jewellery Quarter. The restaurant, best known for its ‘100 per cent authentic Nepalese menu’, is a family-run business first opened by nationally-recognised chef, Ganesh Shrestha, in 2006. Now owner Sanju Shrestha, son of Ganesh, has taken over from his father, continuing the restaurant’s legacy.

The Belfry Hotel & Resort’s Bright Street. Giant hand-painted murals of the New York scene and industrial factory-style executive head chef Robert touches feature in the newly-opened Manhattan Bates was named Hotel Ave cocktail bar. The cocktail menu is split into Chef of the Year at the American and British-inspired drinks and Caterer’s Hotel Cateys include a number of barrel-aged cocktails.

Awards. Robert, who joined The bar also hosts live jazz music the Belfry in 2013, fought every Tuesday. off three other top chefs from across the UK to win The Jewellery Quarter has launched a new weekly street food festival. Street Food the title, which highlighted Fridays is a collaboration between JQ restaurant Rebel Chicken and well known his revolutionary culture Brum events organisers, Taste and Liquor. The festival features street food traders, change, boosting staff music and drinks. Doors are open every Friday from 4pm to 11pm. Traders so far retention and morale. have included What The Cluck, Little Urban BBQ, Jamrock and Full Belly.

STREET FOOD FRIDAYS LAUNCHES

UK ACCOLADE FOR ADAM’S Adam’s, Birmingham has been named the second best restaurant in the UK and eleventh in the world. The rating comes from customer review website TripAdvisor in its annual TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice awards for Restaurants. The Michelin-starred eatery run by Adam Stokes and wife Natasha was only beaten by Sat Bains in Nottingham. The couple are opening a seafood restaurant, the Oyster Club, in Temple Street next month.

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RESTAURANT REVIEW

GAUCHO

55 Colmore Row, Birmingham, B3 2AA. Tel: 0121 439 9236 gauchorestaurants.com e realise this might not be the first restaurant that springs to mind for a health issue – although we certainly had our recommended dose of iron – but don’t worry, we turned veggie and teetotal for the rest of the week to make up for our over indulgence.

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As you’d expect, the main event is beef with a number of cuts displayed and explained at the table which I found a bit off-putting weirdly given I’m a carnivore. A minor and very personal gripe. There are some cracking fish and vegetarian options as well as meat, so there’s no reason you should break those irritating resolutions if you were daft enough to have made them.

We find bread in mid-range restaurants often a bit meh, but not here. We could have nibbled the warm cheesey little rolls all day long. Sourdough with a punchy garlic-packed chimichurri pleased too.

While the friend settled on the set menu, £24.50 for three courses, which had enough options not to feel hard done, I stuck with a la carte. The friend’s starter was everything you might hanker after in a cold snap and if you love a raclette on the slopes, you need the baked provoleta (cheese) in your belly. It’s basically an unctuous hot skillet of gooey melted cheese with caramelised onions atop and crisp sourdough to dunk. Nuff said.

I opted for sweetbreads (mollejas) which were coated in ají amarillo batter served with pickled Guindilla chilli and a saffron sauce (£8.50). It was light and bright, full of flavour and perfectly cooked. The canary yellow sauce was sweet and spicy and utterly brilliant.

The friend went all in with a 300g ribeye (Ancho), thyme chips and bearnaise sauce which was superb. Beef

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was charred on the outside, pink and juicy on the inside and seasoned well. Chips were crisp and fluffy while bearnaise sauce was a smooth tarragon packed triumph.

Pork belly (£19.95) was moist and tasty although the crisp skin described on the menu as crackling – it wasn’t – was a bit burnt. Celeriac mash was dreamy in the way only chef ’s mash can while zingy pickled red cabbage and a cider jus added freshness. Really delicious.

Portions were generous and dessert was wholly unnecessary – is it ever? – but when in Rome and all that. Chocolate fondant (£8.50) was everything you’d expect - oozing warm chocolate, a crisp outer, fantastic ice cream and a shortbread crumb. Churros came highly recommended by our waitress, who was fantastic by the way, and came sprinkled with cinnamon sugar and a sweet moreish chocolatey dipping sauce.

We found the whole experience pretty joyful – the surroundings were glamorous and cooking and service brilliant. Gaucho is often put in special occasion territory but we’d recommend doing yourself a favour and not saving it for best. I

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FOOD & DRINK

FIT TO DRINK

ROB PRICE REVEALS WHAT THE FRENCH HAVE KNOWN FOR YEARS… WINE HAS REAL BENEFITS IN IMPROVING YOUR HEALTH 26 birmingham living

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K, so you indulged a little too much at Christmas. Maybe you’re thinking about those New Year resolutions – losing weight, getting fit, reducing the amount of alcohol you drink? Or are you more like me and can’t quite get around to taking such drastic action?

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Some people stop drinking any alcohol during January and follow this ritual every year. I’m not of that way of thinking. Wine in moderation (with the very occasional blip at Christmas) is more my style. So, for those of you who may be feeling a little guilty, here’s some good news. Wine can be good for you.

BLACK MAGIC Red wine in particular has been shown to provide health benefits. Black grape skins have properties such as resveratrol, a powerful antioxidant, that helps fight off the common cold and has anti-ageing benefits. It was shown in a recent study of more than 4,000 people that those drinking a couple of small glasses of wine a day had 40 per cent fewer colds than people not partaking.

Other substances found in red grape skins such as proteins and polyphenols help kill off cancer cells and keep our arteries cleaner. It is grapes with thicker skins that provide the most benefits, so wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon improve these benefits further.

French wines from the left bank of Bordeaux, ie Medoc wines are mainly constituted from Cabernet.

RED ALERT The French have known about the health benefits of red wines for years. So while we were all trying to eat more healthily, the French continued with their diets of fatty cheeses with seemingly no greater detriment on their health. This has been known as the French paradox. It was identified back in 1819 by an Irish doctor called Samuel Black.

He compared angina rates between French and Irish people and found that the French style of living was the major reason for the lower rates. Two hundred years on and we find that while the French continue with a diet of cream, butter and cheeses, only 10 per cent of them are classified as obese while the UK and the US with their ‘healthier’ life style have obesity rates of 22 per cent and 33 per cent respectively.

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ROB’S

4

FOOD & DRINK

FOR HEALTH

Prosecco – Waitrose sells own label Prosecco. Apples, pear, hint of almond, and at only 11 per cent abv this is tasty and won’t hit the waistline! Nor the bank, as it’s only £7.89.

Moscato d’Asti Arcaldica – This is delightfully light and fresh and even lower alcohol than the Prosecco at only five per cent abv.

Floral and honey – sweet and moreish. Majestic sells for only £7.99 Rose d’Anjou – From M&S, this refreshing rosé is another low

alcohol wine at 11 per cent abv. Off dry and youthful, with crunchy

red fruits. Very easy to drink. Those two small glasses a day will be a challenge! £8

Trivento Golden Reserve Malbec – A low alcohol wine that is high in polyphenols. This is Trivento’s top of the range Malbec, and utterly delicious. Available from several outlets including Amazon and Tesco. Expect to pay about £16 a bottle.

Of course, this doesn’t mean you should just go and eat what you want and expect wine to fix any resultant issues. But take reasonable care of yourself, eat sensibly and drink wine (red in particular) in moderation and you will give your general health a real boost. What does moderation mean? Well, two small (125ml) glasses per day with two nonalcohol days!

But remember, if you miss a couple of days it doesn’t mean you can then drink six glasses on the third day! And remember moderation is the key word with food as well. While the French may eat more dairy products than us, they do so in small quantities and never to excess.

What could be better than starting the New Year knowing that the simple pleasure of wine may help improve your health. With that may I wish you all a prosperous and healthy New Year! I

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

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BERRY TASTY COCKTAIL OF THE MONTH

This Mixed Berry Mojito has all the taste but none of the alcohol – perfect for Health Month s our knowledgeable wine expert Rob Price explains on the previous pages, it is perfectly possible to drink alcohol and still be healthy. But if you’re looking for something that is delicious and nonalcoholic, then the team at Aluna in the Mailbox have put together this little beauty for this month’s health theme.

Please raise a glass to their nonalcoholic Mixed Berry Mojito. Enjoy!

A

ALL YOU NEED TO MIX IT UP BEAUTIFULLY INGREDIENTS: I 3 Blackberries I 3 Raspberries I 3 Blueberries

I 8 to 10 mint leaves I 30ml Lime juice

I 30ml Strawberry syrup I Apple juice

METHOD: Place the berries into a sling glass. Add the mint leaves. Muddle berries and mint together – you can use a spoon to do this.

Add lime juice and strawberry syrup. Add crushed ice. And Churn – again, you can use a spoon to do this. Top with apple juice. Garnish with a raspberry, blueberry, blackberry and mint sprig

Aluna, 128-130, Mailbox, Wharfside Street, Birmingham, B1 1RQ. Tel: 0121 633 9987 aluna.uk.com

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From only £25

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ADVERTORIAL

THE ULTIMATE

AIRPORT EXPERIENCE CHRISTMAS FESTIVITIES HAVE COME TO AN END, THE NEW YEAR EVENINGS ARE DARK AND DISMAL. GET RID OF THOSE JANUARY BLUES AND BOOK YOUR SUMMER HOLIDAY FOR 2019 FROM BIRMINGHAM AIRPORT ith a choice of more than 150 direct destinations to choose from – whether it be a family holiday, business trip, sunny beach or the great outdoors – Birmingham Airport can help you get there in style.

Make the most of your airport experience this summer by planning ahead now and create a luxury get-away, whether you are travelling as a family, with friends or as an individual.

Take advantage of the airport offerings and save money by pre-booking your airport parking, skip the queues when you pre-book your express security lane and treat yourself to a luxury lounge experience by choosing from one of our five executive lounges. And don’t forget to pick up your favourite fragrance at World Duty Free along the way.

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WHERE SHOULD I PARK? Pre-book your Birmingham Airport parking and save up to 70 per cent compared to pay-on-the-day rates. There is a range of car parks to suit all passengers’ needs. All the on-site car parks are within 10 minutes of check-in desks. With parking spaces selling fast for summer, make sure you pre-book to

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guarantee your parking space and enjoy a hassle-free start to your journey.

If you want to check-in as soon as you can, Valet Parking is the speediest option, while car parks 1, 2 and 3 are only a twominute walk from the terminal building. Car park 5 is a 10minute walk to the terminal, or you can get the free shuttle bus every 10 minutes FLIGHTSMART Take the stress out of your airport experience with Flightsmart, a flight update service for departing passengers via Facebook messenger and Twitter. Make sure you take advantage of this free service when you arrive at the airport this summer. Simply send your flight number to the FlightSmart messenger page or Twitter page and receive instant live flight updates direct to your mobile and tablet device. Facebook messenger also allows access to more rich content, so you can access maps, information about restaurants and bars and contact details – meaning you can have up-to-date information on your journey at your fingertips.

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ADVERTORIAL

SKIP THE QUEUES WITH EXPRESS LANE Getting through security can be stress-free when you purchase an Express Security Lane Ticket. Take advantage of a separate lane through security enabling you to pass through the area more quickly, giving you more time to enjoy the great selection of shops and restaurants in the departure lounge.

HOT DESTINATIONS FOR SUMMER 2019 Doha – The Qatari capital is 2019’s alternative to Dubai.

New wealth meets ancient history!

Greece – Idyllic islands, including Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, Crete and Corfu all boasting long sandy beaches, sun-bleached ruins and turquoise blue sea.

Agadir – Enjoy fine sandy beaches, guaranteed sun and

the diverse landscapes of Agadir this summer.

Turkey – With nearly 1,000 miles of Mediterranean

coastline, Turkey is a major draw for visitors looking for a beach-based holiday.

Balearic Islands – Sunny climates, stunning landscapes

BOOK INTO AN AIRPORT LOUNGE For adults travelling as a couple, a group of friends travelling for a special celebration or even a business traveller, try out the brand-new Clubrooms lounge: the ultimate departure lounge experience at Birmingham Airport. The interior is designed in the style of a modern members’ club with service to match. It boasts à la carte dining, full table service, great airport views, the best access to most of the airport’s gates and an optional Champagne Package – ideal for those travelling for a special occasion. I

and relaxing vibes can be found at scenic coasts like Palma de Mallorca, Ibiza and Menorca.

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SPORTSWEAR ICONS NEW YEAR, NEW YOU AND ALL THAT JAZZ. IF YOU’RE ONE OF

THE MILLIONS OF PEOPLE WHO VOWED TO GET HEALTHY THIS YEAR, GIVE YOURSELF A FIGHTING CHANCE AND SORT YOUR KIT OUT kay, January’s here. We’ve pledged to get fit and this year we mean it. Whether you’re launching into a HIIT programme at home or full on marathon training, you might as well feel good while you’re at it. We’ve pulled together a selection of sports wear we think will keep you on the straight and narrow looking fine while you train. Firstly though, make space in your wardrobe for your new gear and by that, we don’t mean a poxy shelf on which to stuff your crumpled leggings. Treat your sportswear like you do your other clothing. Make it look appealing, so you actually want to slip into it. That’s half the battle. You also don’t need to break the bank. Yes, Stella McCartney is the ideal (see pictured), but if you’re on a budget, there are options that work perfectly well. The single most important thing to invest in is a suitable sports bra for your shape and preferred workout. Other than that, go for it, be strong, stay focused and don’t be a Debbie Downer about exercise. You know it’ll make you feel good while avoiding it will just make you feel rubbish.

No brainer. I

LEG IT

Grand slam legging £70, Every Second Counts

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PURPLE PATCH

Gilet, £35 M&S, Fort Shopping Park

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STYLE

CUTE TEE

Blue activewear tee £12, F&F

JACKET IN

Sweaty Betty Fast Track shell hooded jacket £95, Selfridges

TRUE BLUE

Zip-up sports swimsuit £29, Swimwear365.co.uk

RUN BRUM

Blue leggings and crop top, Every Second Counts

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TOP OF THE CROPS

Purple mesh sports bra £12.99, TK Maxx, Bullring Link

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STYLE

AND RELAX

Hoodie £39.50, Leggings £28, M&S, Fort Shopping Park

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STYLE

OKAY CORAL

Print vest £6, George at Asda

SUPPORTING ACT

Sports bra £25, M&S, Fort Shopping Park

GOOD HOOD PE Nation pink shell jacket £190, Harvey Nichols, Mailbox

DREAM COLLAB

Adidas X Stella McCartney jersey top £85, Harvey Nichols, Mailbox

TRAIN RIGHT Adidas Pureboost x tr 3.0 woven running trainers £160, Selfridges

THINK PINK

Wildfox Digital No9 flocked cotton T-shirt £70, Harvey Nichols, Mailbox

ROSE TINTED

Athletic Propulsion Labs Techloom Bliss rose knitted trainers £155, Harvey Nichols, Mailbox

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HELPING HAND

Fitbit Alta HR Heart rate and fitness tracker in coral, John Lewis, Grand Central

GET STRAPPY

Low impact sports bra £4, Primark, Fort Shopping Park

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STYLE

HIGH STREET HONEYS Black and graphic detail leggings £10, George at Asda

GREAT BRA

Good American Core woven sports bra £70, Selfridges

CAMO COOL Active grey leggings £20, Dorothy Perkins, Debenhams, Bullring

ON A BUDGET

Leggings £5, 10store.com

BOARD MEETING

Black hooded jacket £10, George at Asda

BEST VEST

Active black slogan vest £12, Dorothy Perkins, Debenhams, Bullring

RIGHT STRIPES

Nine by Savannah Miller £22, Debenhams, Bullring

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STYLE

BLACK IS BACK

Technical Velvet Collection, Every Second Counts

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BEAUTY

BEAUTY NEWS WE’VE BEEN SAMPLING SOME OF THE LATEST

1

PRODUCTS TO REVOLUTIONISE YOUR ROUTINE 1. Balancing Face Cream £49, Honest Skincare, Great Western Arcade Spawned in King’s Heath, Honest now has a store in Great Western Arcade making it oh-so-easy to pop in on the way home from work which has its pros and cons. Pros – our irritable skin is now soothed and hydrated thanks to this gorgeous and wholly natural cream.

Cons – we now want the whole range.

2. Charlotte Tilbury Magic Away Liquid Concealer £24, Selfridges Birmingham The point of concealer is to cover up a blemish or dark circle undetected but often the concealer itself looks a bit obvious, giving the game away. This wonder product that was five years in the making leaves you with a completely natural non-cakey finish, keeping your blemishes under wraps.

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3. Shavata Day-Long Brow Tint £19, Harvey Nichols, Mailbox We’re not fans of a big solid painted on brow but we do benefit from a bit of tinting here and there. This product purely colours the hairs and doesn’t stain your skin underneath creating a barely there look. Application is a doddle – you just sweep the handy pen applicator over over your brows in the knowledge you’re only colouring the hairs.

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4. Aveda Speed of Light Blow Dry Accelerator £21, John Lewis, Grand Central We have a lot of hair – the double whammy of length and thickness – so blow drying is a total bore. Until we’re rich enough and retired enough to have a daily blow dry circa 2069, we’ll be using this beauty. It feels a bit strange on application and we worried we’d be left with a tacky residue, but once dried – which was a much faster affair than usual – there was no such hangover.

5. Angela Langford Bloom & Glow Face Oil £20.50, angelalangford.com We think it’s time to stop referring to Angela Langford as ‘former Masterchef contestant’ and start calling her skincare guru. We’ve been using this award-winning oil morning and night for two weeks underneath our usual moisturiser and it’s made a real difference. Our complexion is more even and generally more moist and glowing.

6. Elemental Herbology Body Essentials Coconut Shell Body Scrub £32, Space NK We need a lot of help in January to keep our skin in tip-top nick and this delicious smelling scrub makes it easy. We find it most effective when applied to dry skin before hopping into the shower. It smells like summer holidays and leaves skin feeling super soft and smooth.

7. La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Eyes £25.50, Boots This is the first eye cream we’ve tried which hasn’t left us with puffy eyes. Weird right? We’ve had various opinions on why but generally we abstain from using it.

We gave this a whirl. A combination of hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5 targets tiredness and ageing and left our delicate eye area pretty smooth. This is revelatory!

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ADVERTORIAL

ELDERLY DIVORCE The latest set of ONS figures indicates the number of

divorcing over 60s continues to rise. Clare Wiseman, a specialist family lawyer with Irwin Mitchell Private Wealth, has found herself being instructed more and more frequently Clare Wiseman, a family lawyer with Irwin Mitchell Private Wealth

by people who are in their 60s, 70s and even 80s.

lare says, “whereas in the past a couple might have reached a particular point in their marriage and felt it was too late in the day to separate, attitudes have changed. The stigma once attached to divorce is now largely gone. Elderly clients often tell me that they are all too conscious of the passage of time and that they are no longer willing to spend their remaining years in an unhappy marriage.”

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Acting for the elderly can present quite particular challenges. Clare acted for one wife who had to move in with her daughter following divorce. Acting as ‘The Bank of Mum and Dad’, during their marriage the couple had gifted large sums of money to their children never expecting that they would need it back. As a result of their generosity the couple’s own pot simply couldn’t support two separate households and in a stark role reversal, the wife found herself dependent upon the children she had wanted to provide for.

Clare also acted for a husband who had been married very happily for 30 years, but on losing his wife he met and married another woman in a very short timescale. Where people have retired and lost their borrowing capacity or they are entirely dependent on pensions in payment, options can be limited. If one person is in ill health, then

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meeting their additional needs can also be tricky.

Clare says there are usually solutions but they require careful planning and creative thinking. In order to avoid losing a valuable widow’s or widower’s pension it is possible for a couple to “judicially separate” rather than divorce. In order to unlock money in the family home, there are a number of companies that will assist with equity release.

Clare also stresses how much importance people attach to the act of preparing and determining the content of their own will, without the interference of the other. Often a divorcing couple will know they both want to leave their assets to children or other relatives – however, they will feel it necessary to divide the pot whilst still alive and then each prepare their own will.

Separation and divorce is going to represent a significant change to you and your family. Irwin Mitchell Private Wealth offer unrivalled understanding and can provide guidance and support to you for all legal needs, whatever the circumstance, so you can plan appropriately and make the right decisions at the right time. I If you need legal advice, contact Clare on 0370 1500 100 Extension: 5278, or by email clare.wiseman@irwinmitchell.com

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STYLE FOR MEN

HIGH JUMP Clothing from Every Second Counts

IF YOU’RE KEEN TO STICK TO THOSE NEW YEAR FITNESS GOALS, GIVE YOURSELF A HEAD START AND SORT YOUR KIT OUT

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STYLE FOR MEN

IN THE BAG Quest backpack £139, Every Second Counts

SECOND SKIN Black compression shirt £29.99, TK Maxx, Bullring Link

f, like us, you’ve developed a slight roast potato induced HOT ON COTTON bulge and find yourself hankering after your shredded – Stone Island logo badge cotton-jersey jogging bottoms £205, Selfridges who are we trying to kid? – preChristmas bod, invest in some new gear to get you in the mood. We’ve pulled together a handful of pieces from a variety of price points that will do the job and encourage you to get off the sofa. If you’re more luxe than sports – we hear you - we’ve got you covered too. Check out A Bathing WRAP UP Hooded jacket £10, Ape’s camo jacket that will add some 10store.com TOO GOOD instant sporty cool to any outfit or A Bathing Ape Quilted Balenciaga’s mesh and nubuck camouflage-print shell jacket trainer which works as well on a £435, Selfridges catwalk as the treadmill.

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SWEAT IT OUT Moncler hooded jersey sweatshirt £485, Harvey Nichols, Mailbox

JOG ON Green and grey joggers, Topman, Bullring

THE NEW BLACK Nike Zoom Fly mesh trainers £150, Selfridges SPORTS LUXE Balenciaga Triple S stone mesh and nubuck trainers £645, Harvey Nichols, Mailbox

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HEALTH

DAME DARCEY STEP OUT WITH

STRICTLY MAY BE OVER FOR ANOTHER YEAR BUT FEAR NOT SUPER FANS – THERE’S A NEW DANCE-BASED HEALTH REGIME ON THE MARKET FROM DAME DARCEY BUSSELL

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HEALTH

e all loved Strictly (as always!) and been encouraged to think that maybe we should think about taking a spin round the floor – if for no other reason than to boost our health! Now you can get super-fit in no time and also give yourself a regular fix of routines that are heavily-rooted in your SCD dance favourites. Welcome to the world of Darcey Bussell’s DDMIX… Since her retirement from professional ballet Dame Darcey has become a prominent advocate for promoting dance at all stages of life. She’s piloted dance classes for schoolchildren across the country, spoken in Parliament calling for dance to be a key part of the curriculum to help children’s fitness and more recently explored how dance can be an important tool for everyone’s mental health.

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FUN WORKOUT One of these initiatives is DDMIX (Diverse Dance Mix), a full body aerobic workout based on a wide range of different dance styles with easy to follow steps, choreographed by Dame Darcey and Nathan Clarke with whom she collaborated for the closing ceremony of the London Olympics. The aim of DDMIX is to get people moving without being intimidated by the word ‘dance’ or the technicality of the steps but instead to give a full body workout that is such fun that you don't even notice that you are exercising.

Talking about the inspiration behind DDMIX, Dame Darcey said: “When I finished my career in 2007, I wanted to keep moving so I went out there and I tried everything – jazz, Zumba, tap! The idea of DDMIX came about as I wanted to enjoy many flavours of dance styles but not get obsessed with them... just have fun with them! Through DDMIX we want to deliver group exercise classes with non-correctional instruction that are fun and all inclusive.”

SOME OF THE BENEFITS:

Tones up the body – Aerobic exercise will help strengthen your arms, legs, buttocks and abs.

Endorphin rush – It’s scientifically proven that you can naturally boost your mood when dancing around as your body release endorphins and dopamine, the neurotransmitters involved in affection and love.

Reduce stress levels – What a relief as you switch off from your daily routine as you focus on moving your body, helping reduce any anxiety that may have built up over the day.

Good for the mind – You have to coordinate more than one action with the corresponding movement. It makes your mind work in a different way and these connections will make you feel more active.

Variety is the spice of life – There’s a vast mix of dance moves to enjoy, inspired by a wide range of favourites including samba, disco and line dancing.

It’s fun – Thanks to the cracking mix of music this is more like fun than exercise as you learn different dance steps from around the world.

It’s social – Come with partners, friends and meet new people in a fun but structured environment.

It’s for everyone – Grandparents, mum and dads and children of all ages, sizes and fitness levels can get involved. Work out at your own pace.

She adds: “It’s not intense but dance touches every part of the body. We have some genres like the Nineties and Arabian which are very full-on for the arms and other genres like Irish that’s very good for the calves or New Zealand Haka which tones the thighs.”

Each routine is broken down into the steps before you start, which Dame Darcey says is important for fitness too. So kick start your New Year with a fitness regime that may just last beyond February… I

Last year, Dame Darcey Bussell launched DDMIX to members at Edgbaston Priory Club and it is now a popular session on the club’s fitness class timetable. More details at www.edgbastonpriory.com 0121 440 2492.

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HEALTH

HOW TO LOOK

FLAB-U-LESS

FOR A THIRD OF BRITS IT’S ALL ABOUT HEALTH AND WEIGHT LOSS IN 2019 romises of a ‘new you’ are all well and good on New Year’s Day, but it’s a fact that within the first couple of weeks in January many of us will have forgotten that initial burst to get fit and the waistline remains stubbornly squishy. Often, the problem is that we make exercising just too complicated, too time-consuming – and therefore quickly demotivating. But it doesn’t have to be that way. It is totally possible to improve your fitness in a fun and fuss-free way.

What’s more, it doesn’t have to entail hours of complete commitment in the local gym. If that’s what you like doing, great! But for the rest of us, we’ve put together a quick-fire workout to kick-start your day whether at home or in the gym.

You’ll get rid of some of those excess calories at the same time too. So here’s some basic exercises to wake up the mind and body as soon as you get out of bed…

P

WARM UP – Don’t forget to warm up. Make sure to get your heart rate pumping and get your muscles warm or you’re just asking for injury. A few minutes of gentle stretching will make a world of difference.

JUMPING JACKS – A great way to ease yourself in gently, taking your body from asleep to awake. Make sure you clap at the top and slap your thighs at the bottom to ensure a full range of motion. Try and do 50.

T-ROTATIONS – While in the press-up position reach under your body as far as you can then up to the sky looking

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at the hand at the top. This warms up the shoulder, engages the core and stretches the chest. Do 40 (20 per arm).

SPRINTERS – Staying in the press-up position, bring one knee to the opposite elbow then change, building up the pace to a ‘sprint’, twisting at your hips and doing your best to touch each elbow. Go for 30 (both knees equals one rep).

PRESS-UPS – Keep your core engaged the whole time, make sure your hands are not in front of the shoulders. Aim for full range of motion, your chest touching the floor and arms fully extended at the top. See if you can do 20.

BURPEES Bring your knees to your elbows and bum to your heels before driving up to the sky. Straightening your body in the air, as soon as your feet touch the ground, allow gravity to pull your bum back to your heels then shoot your feet back out engaging your core while landing in a strong press-up position. Go for 10.

KEEP IT GOING It’s important to complete all exercises in quick succession to start your day right. If you do this programme three times a week for four weeks you will start to feel and see the real benefits. Try timing how long it takes to complete so you can measure your progress. I

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SLEEP RIGHT

TURN YOUR BEDROOM INTO A STYLISH SPACE THAT ENCOURAGES SLEEP FOR OPTIMUM HAPPY MORNINGS

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HOMES

pinion is divided on how much shut-eye you actually need in order to wake up feeling refreshed, but one thing we know is that relaxing in a bedroom that makes us smile not stress is a winner whatever the sleep tracker says.

Start with your bed. Go for a solid base which is more comfortable than sleeping on wooden slats and avoid a base with built-in drawers if possible as this can affect comfort too. If you’re short on space under bed storage can be a must but just make sure you try before you buy and spend as much as you can afford on a mattress. Go for pocket sprung, latex or memory foam. They all have different densities and qualities, so lie down, wriggle around, get into your usual sleeping position before you settle on the one. It’s not one size fits all.

O

SMART CASUAL Cookes Collection Luca 5ft bed frame, in the winter sale £845 (was £1,121), Cookes Furniture, Erdington

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HOMES

Darkness kick starts melatonin production which makes you feel naturally sleepy, so make your bedroom as dark as possible. Invest in fully lined curtains or blinds that fit perfectly. Bespoke is more expensive but worth it in terms of quality and fit if you can stretch to it. Well-made shutters that fit beautifully are a good option too.

Storage is the key to ensuring your bedroom feels ordered and therefore relaxing so consider your options early in the design process. Count the pieces in your wardrobe splitting the items into short and long and don’t forget space hungry shoes and bags.

The smallest of spaces can be transformed into excellent storage or even a bijou walk-in wardrobe with some vision and craftmanship. I

TOP NOTCH Vi Spring Shetland, POA, Cookes, Erdington

ORDER RESTORED Croft Collection Skye bed frame in grey from £699, George Nelson Bubble Saucer ceiling light from £343 and accessories, John Lewis, Grand Central

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HOMES

GROWN UP GLAMOUR Larsson bed with low footboard £1,115, Sophie bedlinen from £32, Neptune, Edgbaston

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RUSTIC CHARM Savannah bedroom, Debenhams, Fort Shopping Park

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HOMES

PRINTS CHARMING Accessories and furniture, HomeSense, Merry Hill

INSTA-WORTHY Huxley ceiling light £210, Showwood bedstead £699, Wellington rug £180, John Lewis, Grand Central

BEDROOM GOALS Ashwell cotton white double 4ft 6in bed frame £750 and accessories, Laura Ashley

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SWEET DREAMS Dream Odyssey aqua trinket dish £10, Gift From the Gods LIGHT UP Vari table lamp £68, Oliver Bonas, Harborne High Street

MIRROR MIRROR Core oblong mirror £29.50, M&S, Fort Shopping Park

RAZZLE TASSEL Very.co.uk

FINISHING TOUCHES ADD SOME GORGEOUS ACCESSORIES TO YOUR

BOUDOIR AND VOILA, YOU’RE DONE. SWEET DREAMS… MELLOW YELLOW Mustard quilted bed spread £50, Sainsbury’s Home

ZIG ZAG Missoni Home Trevor bedspread £566, Amara

PERFECT POM POM George Home pom pom cushion £10, George at Asda

NATURAL LOOK Vox Nature dressing table in oak effect £525, cuckooland.com

SUNBURST Sun burst mirror, Monsoon, Bullring

PILLOW LOVE Monochrome tassel cushion £12, Sainsbury’s Home

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HOMES

PROPERTY COTSWOLD CLASSIC

THIS MONTH’S PICK OF TOP HOMES FOR SALE ON THE MARKET

Latimers, Chipping Campden Guide price: £1.6million Agent: Peter Clarke & Co, tel: 01386 770044 A beautiful Grade II listed, sixbedroom stone Cotswold home, set in lovely gardens and grounds of just over one-and-three-quarter acres. Beautifully appointed and decorated with loads of reception space, tennis court and swimming pool. The adjoining outbuildings offer further potential.

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HOMES

THE ENTERTAINER Knowle Road, Hampton-In-Arden Guide price: £950,000 Agent: Fine and Country, tel: 0121 746 6400 A unique and simply stunning four-bedroom home surrounded by delightful countryside. Set over three floors, it really is a spectacular home that’s great for entertaining. It includes a couple of cellars – one even has its own bar – and a great courtyard for alfresco living.

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HOMES

ON TARGET

This two-bedroom apartment is in the award-winning Javelin Block development, Rifle Maker Lofts. It boasts loads of space, plenty of light and a stunning roof terrace with spectacular views over the canal and city skyline.

Rifle Maker, St Pauls Square Guide price £725,000 Agent: Maguire Jackson, tel: 0121 634 1520

WOODLAND SETTING Forshaw Heath Lane, Earlswood Guide price: £850,000 Agent: Fine and Country, tel: 0121 746 6400 A stunning five-bedroom architect-designed detached family home that sits on about 1.2 acres of land next to woodland. Such a convenient location and top quality living space that includes a quite awesome open plan kitchen.

There’s also a cracking double garage with excellent space above that’s ripe for conversion.

BRICKS&BITS

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

FURNITURE DEAL

HOUSE OF FRASER PLAN

BUTTON BOX MOVE

The company that owns Oak Furniture Land and SofaStore.com has taken a six-year lease on a unit at Anchor Brook Industrial Estate, Aldridge. JB Global Ltd agreed the deal for warehousing and distribution of its furniture products with landlord Hortons’ Estate.

Plans to turn House of Fraser’s Birmingham store

Birmingham construction firm Peter Jennings has

into offices and a hotel have been drawn up.

appointed Principle Estate Management to look

Legal & General owners, LGIM Real Assets, are

after two of its local developments including

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preparing the plans for submission to

Button Box, a mixed-use development of 30

Birmingham City Council. They also include retail

units at Warstone Lane and a gated site called

facilities and restaurants, cafes and bars.

Hawthorn Drive in Selly Oak.

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HOMES

MAGNIFICENT SEVEN Harborne Place, Harborne Guide price POA Agent: St Philips, tel: 0121 728 9830

A fantastic development of seven, five-bedroom homes in a cracking part of central Birmingham.

Features such as generous bedrooms, open-plan living and dining and bi-folding doors leading on to a spacious garden all mean proper luxurious city living.

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

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MOTORING

AUDI’S

HELPING HAND BELIEVE IT OR NOT, THE NEW 2019 AUDI A6 HAS AN AMAZING 39

DRIVER ASSISTANCE SYSTEMS. SUE COOKE COUNTED THEM ALL...

ehind the wheel of the Audi A6, I feel safe.

There is a surety of driving the saloon in all conditions, which comes from the brighter headlights for night driving, Audi’s reliable four-wheel drive for tackling slippery roads and a wealth of technology to support the driver. There is a total of 39 driver assistance systems in the new 2019 model year saloon which Audi says make daily use easier.

The European Commission is proposing new initiatives for road safety as 23,500 people lost their lives on EU roads in 2017 and another 135,000 people were seriously injured. The EU is calling for a dozen features to be added to vehicles and many of these can be found

B

in the A6 saloon. They include a drowsiness and attention detection and advanced emergency braking.

PARKING PILOT As I’m not so good at parking, I found the parking pilot and garage pilot the most use, which uses an app on a smartphone to autonomously manoeuvre the car in and out of a parking space or garage.

Cruise control is enhanced with adaptive cruise control which uses gentle steering intervention to keep the vehicle in lane, which I found a little irritating as it felt as if I was constantly fighting for control of the steering wheel.

The 2019 A6 has a sharper, front and rear styling. The S Line model which I road tested has a striking 3D-look single frame. The sport suspension is lowered and can easily be identified with its larger, 19-inch alloy wheels, adaptive Matrix LED headlights and dynamic rear indicators. I do like Audi’s sequential indicators which are so distinctive and which other manufacturers are now copying.

MORE EQUIPMENT The luxury interior has the space and refinement of the larger A8. I found leg space in the rear is generous and the 530 litres boot capacity is huge. I also appreciated the automatic boot opening following a shopping spree in Sutton Coldfield. I returned to the car park loaded with goodies, pressed the key fob as I approached the car and the boot opened. I like the

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MOTORING

FACTS AT A GLANCE Model: Audi A6 saloon S Line S Tronic Price: ÂŁ45,655 otr including options Engine: 2.0-litre TDi 204 PS Performance: 0-62mph in 8.1 seconds and on to a top speed of 152mph CO2 emissions: 124g/km Combined fuel consumption: 60.1mpg

supportive seats which will accommodate most sizes without much side support.

Detailed equipment enhancements that will make the A4 even more of a pleasure to live with day-to-day have been added as part of the update. SE versions gain MMI navigation (SD card-based), a seven-inch colour Driver’s Information System to replace the original five-inch monochrome version, an upgraded multi-function steering wheel, controlling a wider range of functions and auto-folding door mirrors.

COOL CRUISER I much appreciated the power of the S Line which will reach 62mph in 8.1 seconds, when quick acceleration was needed to get onto the busy roundabout at the Bassetts Pole. The 2.0-litre diesel engine is extremely quiet which

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meant a smooth unruffled cruise past two horse riders enjoying a Sunday excursion. I found the stop start system slow to engage once it had switched off at traffic lights, but you can switch it off.

IAM RoadSmart welcomes the proposals by the EU Commission for adding new technology to cars like the Audi A6 saloon. The organisation says that while this brings many benefits, safer cars require safer drivers as well as safer roads. EU targets are for a further 50 per cent reduction in deaths by 2030. I

SHOWROOM Birmingham Audi, 780 Stratford Road, Shirley, Solihull, B90 4BQ. Tel: 0121 746 5500 www.birmingham.audi.co.uk

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YOUNG, GIFTED & BRUMMIE

MAX WALKER

Up-and-coming tennis ace Max Walker has Wimbledon glory firmly in

his sights and hopes to follow in the footsteps of his hero Rafael Nadal

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YOUNG, GIFTED & BRUMMIE

anked number one tennis player in the Midlands in his age group and number four in the country, Max Walker likes winning and puts in the hard yards to get there. He trains every day, clocking up roughly 12 hours of training a week at a number of venues.

His club is Wolverhampton Lawn Tennis and Squash Club but he also trains twice a week at the Midlands Regional Development Centre in Nottingham and is part of a selected group of U14 high performance juniors who benefit from coaching at Loughborough University. His role model is 17time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal – so nothing less than winning will do. Like his hero, he says he ‘likes winning a lot’.

R

events, Max also travels to play in mainland Europe giving him experience of competing against top juniors from across the continent. There’s a good group of friends on the tour who Max has become close to. In fact his schedule means he spends more time with tennis pals than school friends.

TENNIS VS SCHOOL A stint at Wimbledon in 2017 with his team mates, in which they were tasked with showcasing the talents of the next generation of British tennis players, whet Max’s appetite and made him want to be there for real competing at the highest level. The commitment physically and mentally (and financially adds Max’s mum!) is immense and teamed with rigorous schooling at King Edward’s School it’s a bit of a juggle, EARLY DAYS but one that works.

Max has always loved his tennis but when he was The school is thoroughly supportive, so Max is able to aged nine he changed coaches, which seemed to be the leave early on certain days and gets extra time to do catalyst for success. Within six months of making the homework if needed. He regularly plays for the school change he started to excel. This year Max triumphed at tennis team often competing against older players. the Four Nations Junior Championships with the Simon Tinley who is the school’s head of tennis said: England U12 team beating top players from Scotland, “Not only is Max a very talented tennis player but he has Wales and Ireland and on securing his first win for his a good temperament. I think he should definitely be country, he says: “I really enjoyed it. The best part was aiming for Junior Wimbledon.” when I played a match against one of the Irish players One of Max’s more immediate goals is winning the and I knew that if I won then we would win the under- national championship of which he says confidently: 12s. It was a very close match, but it was a great feeling “That would be great. I’m perfectly capable.” Rafa Nadal when I won.” is Max’s ultimate tennis idol whose immense success he’d Max was also part of the Nottingham Tennis like to emulate. He says of Nadal: “He has a good work Centre team that was crowned National Premier ethic and always gives 100 per cent energy.” Clearly Max is Division U12 champions and he reached the National talented and we’ve no doubt if work ethic and attitude County Finals for Staffordshire. Competing most mean anything in tennis, he is perfectly equipped to weekends in the LTA’s regional and national tour follow in his hero’s footsteps. Watch this space! I

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GROWING PLACES

GRAND OPENING Lordswood Girls’ School and Sixth Form welcomed back former pupil Preet Kaur MP to open a new state-of-the-art sixth form building and sports hall.

Special guests included local head teachers, councillors and other professionals from Birmingham City Council, universities and Calthorpe Estates.

SCHOOL OF THE YEAR King’s High, Warwick has been named Sunday Times West Midlands Independent Secondary School of the Year.

Headmaster Richard Nicholson said: “I am absolutely

SCHOOL REPORT

delighted for our girls, staff and parents. This is a tremendous accolade, recognising both the girls’ achievements and the all-round experience we offer.” And head girl Emma-Jane Taylor Watts added: “Girls at King’s take it as a given that they can achieve anything.”

SPECIAL ASSEMBLY Professional cricketer Ben Cox and Paul Greetham, former director of cricket at Bromsgrove, were guests of honour at a special assembly at Bromsgrove School. Ben is one of the school’s most famous and high achieving Alumni – not least after his success with Worcestershire Rapids team, winning the Vitality T20 Blast Finals day at Edgbaston cricket ground last summer. Ben shot to stardom in 2009 while still a sixth form student at Bromsgrove when he was awarded a professional cricket contract.

AN EVENING WITH Kate Adie, one of the country's most respected and wellknown broadcast journalists, visited Edgbaston High School for Girls. Billed as An Evening with Kate Adie, she delivered an insightful talk about her career and four decades spent reporting from danger zones and conflicts around the world.

Girls gained important advice from a pioneer in the field about how to succeed in journalism, followed by a Q and A session and a book signing.

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GROWING PLACES

SING SING SING Iris Downes, a Year 9 student at Moreton Hall school, has won a place at the National Youth Girls’ Choir of Great Britain. The audition day in Shrewsbury was one of 23 days across the UK and the choir has around 200 members. Iris said: “I am so excited to have this fantastic opportunity. I did not expect to get in and was going with an open mind. It was my first ever audition and now I cannot wait for the first residential training week in the Easter holidays.”

NEW HEAD King Edward’s School, Birmingham has appointed Dr Katy Ricks as chief master. Dr Ricks has been the head of Sevenoaks School, Kent since 2002 which is one of the leading International Baccalaureate schools and is the current Sunday Times Independent School of the Year.

She will become the thirty-third head teacher of King Edward’s and the first female chief master in its 466-year history.

MEDAL FOR MIKE Mike Hopkins, principal of South & City College Birmingham, was awarded the President’s Medal at the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce annual awards and dinner in recognition of his leadership in the education sector as well as his dedication to charity work. Mike has raised more then £300,000 for organisations such as the Teenage Cancer Trust, Macmillan Cancer Support, Help Harry Help Others, Promise Dreams and Cure Leukaemia.

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CLOSE WITHÁ MARTYN COLLIN

THE CEO OF LEADING MUSIC, EDUCATION AND TRAINING CHARITY, BIRMINGHAM’S SERVICES FOR EDUCATION, ON THE VITAL WORK OF ENHANCING THE LIVES OF CHILDREN, YOUNG PEOPLE AND ADULTS BEEN THERE, DONE THAT When I started teaching, I had no idea that many years later I would be heading up a Birmingham charity that supports Birmingham schools and children – as one of the largest privately owned collections of music instruments in the UK! My career started 37 years ago at a small school in Shropshire. In 1984, I moved back to my home city of Birmingham to work in schools in Handsworth, Hodge Hill and Sparkhill before becoming head teacher at New Hall School in Falcon Lodge in 1995. In 2004, I became the principal adviser for Birmingham education and was responsible for more than 350 schools. In 2007, I moved to National Strategies as a senior regional director, working across 22 local authorities in the North West. My return to Birmingham came in 2011 as head teacher at Erdington Hall Primary School – part of the Ninestiles Trust – where I later became deputy CEO, and interim CEO. In November 2017, I became CEO at Services For Education.

IT’S WHAT I DO I lead a team of 270 at Services For Education – a leading music, education and training charity, whose work enhances the lives of children, young people and adults.

Our School Support Service works with more than 570 Birmingham schools each year, providing expert training to teaching and support staff, while supporting 500 newly qualified teachers and head teachers. Our Music Service teaches more than 38,000 children and young people each week, while providing 28,000 musical instruments free of charge. We also run 70 ensemble groups.

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WHAT I’D LIKE TO SEE? I am a proud Brummie. My father grew up in Saltley, my mother in Aston and they married at Aston Church. I went to school in Erdington and Boldmere, where my children grew up and benefited from all Birmingham has to offer. I have spent my professional life wholeheartedly contributing to the city I love through my work as a teacher and head teacher.

Now as CEO at Services For Education, I have an even greater chance to give back to the city. Most of our work is focused on children and young adults but, over the next few years, we are looking to broaden our impact by working with adults.

BIGGEST SUCCESS Professionally, being a head teacher – it’s the best job in the world. When I failed my 11-plus examination, I never thought I would go into the teaching profession but over time opportunities opened and I just grabbed them. Personally, I was a member of the England Junior Ski Team from 1975 to 1978.

BIGGEST LESSON LEARNED As a leader you can’t do everything yourself. Surround yourself with brilliant people and let them get on with it!

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT BRUM I love the vibrancy brought about by the city’s cultural mix.

DOWNTIME I ride my road bike around the lanes of Warwickshire, Staffordshire and Derbyshire at weekends. I have just purchased a tandem and plan to get my wife, also a teacher, to join me. She’s not yet convinced! I also play drums in the Expresso Bongo Orchestra, a 10-piece dance band. I

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OUTSTANDING ACADEMIC RESULTS 82% Pass rate to Select Entry LA Grammar Schools 19 Scholarships to Independent Schools

ing livBUSINESS

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SANDHILLS THE NEWLY-CROWNED SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR IS ABOUT TO

OPEN ITS SEVENTH NURSERY CENTRE – ONE OF THE LARGEST IN THE UK usband and wife Dal and Harcharan Basra launched Sandhills Day Nurseries in 2005 with one location and 25 staff.

Every year since the business has recorded year-onyear growth and now boasts six sites, employing 170 who look after children from 700 families.

Next month Sandhills will continue this impressive record with the opening of its seventh site – one of the UK’s largest children’s nurseries in a new bespoke, state-of-the-art building in Lower Penn, Wolverhampton. The nursery, which has been funded by Barclays bank, will offer an education facility for a further 200 children and take Sandhills total staffing number across the business up to more than 200.

H

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COMPANY TO WATCH

The Wolverhampton centre confirms Sandhills as the biggest childcare provider in the Midlands and adds to its sites at Alvechurch, Barnt Green, Heath Mill, Codsall, Wombourne and Boston – all of which are rated good or outstanding by OFSTED.

Director Dal said: “Since we started the company it has always been our ambition to design and construct our own purpose-built nursery to offer the very best facilities for the children within our care. With Barclays support, we will realise this ambition.”

The new nursery aims to offer a welcoming ‘home from home’ environment using the innovative Reggio Emilia approach to education, which allows the children to use their own natural curiosity and energy to help guide their own development.

Among the facilities on offer will be Playdough stations, natural open-ended resources, children’s cooking facilities and a reflections room. A library will be incorporated to help enhance children’s vocabulary, to help them understand how to read and write, but also to allow development of understanding of different topics about the wider world and every day life.

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PRESTIGIOUS The excitement around the business has only increased with Sandhills award-winning performance at the recent Asian Business Chamber of Commerce where it was named Small Business of the Year – much to the shock and delight of Dal. “It was a wonderful surprise because we didn’t put ourselves forward for the prestigious award – Barclays nominated us which is amazing.”

Sandhills began life as a direct result of Dal and Harcharan’s previous careers – he was a qualified chartered surveyor while she was a primary school teacher. “At the time we had a young daughter and because of our careers we didn’t have a lot of time to see each other. We talked about it and I said: ‘Why don’t we start our own business?’ My wife wasn’t so sure it was a great idea but we went along to a nursery just to see what it was like and what it entailed – and my wife loved it.” The rest, as they say, is history – and their daughter is now an 18year-old preparing to go university.

PARENTS APP Key to Sandhills philosophy, says Dal, is “bringing new ideas to the table”. The innovative approach is summed up by the recent launch of a Sandhills Parents App which allows mums and dads to see real-time what their children are doing at nursery that day with the help of videos and photos taken by staff.

Sandhills also puts emphasis on the belief that the outdoor environment should be an extension of the inside offering a wealth of choice between activities so that children can learn to problem solve, explore, experiment, dig, paint and collaborate ideas.

With all Sandhills nurseries fully booked, parents are clearly showing their appreciation and support for this growing Midlands business. I

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BUSINESS

PEAK PERFORMERS

NEWS

BUSINESS

A 22-strong team from law-led professional services group Gateley conquered the national three peaks challenge, raising £4,500 for the Birmingham branch of mental health charity, Mind. The team included employees from across Gateley Plc, Gateley Hamer and Gateley Capitus. The group has raised more than £1.5 million over the past decade for its annual nominated charities.

BELFRY CHAMPIONS

OPENING: Azad Ebrahim of Fogo, left, with Priya Bissoonauth and Stewart Coles of Thursfields

ALL GO AT FOGO Thursfields Solicitors paved the way for an Italian restaurant to open in Birmingham. The Midlands law firm assisted Fogo Bar & Kitchen in Edgbaston by negotiating the lease, licence for alterations and rental deposit ahead of the venue’s opening.

The restaurant at Hagley Road, near Five Ways, uses a woodfired oven to cook pizzas and also serves pasta, risotto and other traditional Italian dishes.

The Belfry Hotel & Resort scooped top honours at the Birmingham Post Business Awards in the sales & marketing category. The award recognises the Belfry’s excellence in innovation and creativity, as well as its ability to find solutions for sales and marketing challenges. Katie Niland, the Belfry’s sales director said: “We are very proud to have been recognised among the very best in the region’s business community.”

CROWNING GLORY Michelle Thompson’s reputation as one of the best hairdressers in the country was confirmed when she was named as Afro Hairdresser of the Year at HJ’s British Hairdressing Awards. Michelle, from Francesco Group, Birmingham, claimed the title in front of an audience of 1,750 alongside host and TV celebrity, Rylan Clark-Neale in London. The premier industry awards, sponsored by Schwarzkopf Professional, celebrate the very best of British hairdressing. Michelle said: “I’m absolutely delighted and can’t quite believe it.”

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BUSINESS

LEGAL ADDITIONS

ARCADE APPOINTMENT

Great Western Arcade has appointed Shaun Mountain as its new centre manager. With more than 16 years of retail experience, Shaun was previously sales and operations area manager for the Perfume Shop, where he A Birmingham criminal law firm has increased the managed one of the largest flagship stores in Bullring. He said: “I am number of solicitors and advocates at its city centre delighted to continue the great work that has already been done to ensure offices to 14. Purcell Parker, Corporation Street the hidden gems within the Arcade are uncovered.” announced defence solicitor Charmaine Robinson was granted her Higher Rights of Audience which enables her to appear in the Crown Court as a solicitor advocate. Shivali Patel also qualified as a Two women shared a top accolade at the solicitor having gained significant experience in the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce annual firm’s Crown Court department. awards. Dee Kundi of VWV solicitors and

DOUBLE SUCCESS

Rosie Ginday of Miss Macaroon were jointly presented with the Business Woman of the Year award. Mandy Canny, chair of the judging panel, said: “Dee is a leader in litigation, a key innovator and role model for women looking to enter the legal sector. Rosie has brought a positive change to unemployed people in the region.”

PAVILION BOOST Sandwell Leisure Trust has been awarded

JUDGEMENT DAY A Birmingham barrister addressed the annual conference of the United Kingdom

a 10-year contract to run a new

Association of Women Judges. Adreeja

community facility at West Smethwick

Chatterjee, pictured, of No5 Barristers’

Park and the existing Sons of Rest building on behalf of Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council. The £5.2million project

Chambers presented a paper and talk to more than 100 women judges at the event, which examined the themes of Migration,

is courtesy of a Heritage Lottery Fund

Slavery and the Law, including human

grant as part of its nationwide Parks for

trafficking. Speakers included Supreme

People initiative. Focal point will be a new

Court president, Baroness Hale. Adreeja

two-storey pavilion in the centre of the

PEDAL POWER

park which will open in 2021.

said: “Being invited to speak was a highlight of my career so far.”

A control engineer for Leamington Spa-based engineering firm Drive System Design completed a 3,200-mile bike ride across America for charity. Dr Thomas Holdstock rode from Los Angeles to New York and battled all weathers to complete his challenge in 34 days – raising more than £8,000 for Cure Leukaemia. He was showing support for work colleague Lizzie Dean, now in remission after being diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia four years ago.

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BUSINESS

BUSINESS BITES TAKE THAT PRIZE

BID WINS NEW TERM Colmore BID has won a new five-year term after 96 per cent of businesses in the district voted in favour.

The decision will see more than £6million invested in the city centre over five years. Colmore BID executive director Michele Wilby said: “This allows us to continue to deliver on our transformational public realm programme around Snow Hill station and we will bolster our on-street presence to provide more support to businesses and partners in relation to security and street scene issues.”

HONOUR FOR BOSS

MUSEUM GOLD

For the second year running, the British Motor Museum won gold in ‘Focus on Gluten’ and silver in ‘Cafes and Teashops’ at the FreeFrom Eating Out awards.

The Museum beat national chains such as Pizza Express.

ALL ON BOARD

A training academy led by an award-winning business outsourcing firm has been honoured by a Birmingham college. More than 400 people have found full-time jobs with Birmingham-based Sigma Group after receiving training in the academy set up by the firm with Birmingham City Council, Department for Work and Pensions and Birmingham Metropolitan College (BMet). In recognition, Sigma’s chief operating officer Mike Harfield has been made a fellow of BMet.

Birmingham Hippodrome won two titles at the Birmingham Awards – for arts and culture and best use of social media or marketing campaign for their viral video campaign for Take That musical, The Band.

Solihull Business Improvement District (BID) has appointed five new board members to help influence and shape the direction of the town centre. They include Tony Elvin, general manager of Touchwood.

LIFESAVERS CAMPAIGN Midlands Air Ambulance Charity has launched a campaign as the number of road traffic accidents attended by its lifesavers continues to soar. Drive4Life, in partnership with M6toll, highlights the increasing cost to provide the air ambulance’s vital service.

In 2017, Midlands Air Ambulance Charity attended 664 RTCs at a cost of £1.7million.

Each air ambulance mission costs the organisation £2,500, which is solely funded through the generosity of the communities it serves and business donations.

GAMES ROLE NEC Group has appointed Donovan Myers to the newly created role of Commonwealth Games project manager as it ramps up its strategic planning for the Games. NEC Group is due to host nine sports at Arena Birmingham, the NEC and Resorts World Arena. Donovan currently works as business change manager for the NEC. He said: “It is a huge honour to take up this appointment. The Games are going to leave a legacy for decades to come.”

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Business professionals mix it up at EDGE event at the Jam House DGE Creative’s latest networking event was a smash hit! A group of business professionals was invited to the Jam House, St Paul’s Square for an evening of networking and tasting fruity Smirnoff Smash cocktails, courtesy of drinks sponsor Diageo. The event, sponsored by KLO Corporate Services, Iron Box Capital and the Resort Group gave guests the chance to taste a range of flavours at the Smirnoff Smash bar while enjoying informal networking. I

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1 Bryan Manley-Green, Jason Jones, Henrick Court. 2 Peter Komolafe, Tom Warner, Andrew Mclennaghan. 3 Chris Wallsgrove, Samantha Rollins, Matt Booton. 4 Charles Hadfield, Rich Moore, Sam Evans. 5 Zena Weeks, Mindo Sheamar, Phil Brown. 6 Phil Moore, Paul Harrison.

7 Stephen Talboys, Chris Ronan. 8 Dan Styles, Mark Jordan, Eleanor Jordan. 9 Dan Styles, Ann Evans, Anup Shokar.

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AWARDS CELEBRATE LEADING BUSINESSES

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Glittering ABCC event hosted by TV star Nina Wadia hails region’s finest he Asian Business Chamber of Commerce (ABCC) held its annual dinner at the ICC, Birmingham. The event, hosted by TV star Nina Wadia, celebrated some of the finest businesses in the region. Winners included nursery group Sandhills which was named Outstanding SME Business of the Year, Unique Venues Birmingham (Outstanding Hospitality and Event Services) and accountancy firm Mazars (Outstanding Diversity and Inclusion and overall Business of the Year). ABCC president Saqib Bhatti said: “All of the businesses showed remarkable tenacity in coming through some challenging times.” I

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1 Saqib Bhatti, Steve Allen, Anjum Khan, Qasim Majid. 2 Aftab Chughtai, Anjum Khan, Mr and Mrs Omer Simjee.

Paul Faulkner, Nasir Awan. 4 Kevin John, Lillian Elekan, Henrietta Brearley, Sian Averil.

3 Deborah Cadman,

5 Makhan Singh, Anita Virk, Sameera and Johngir

Saddiq. 6 Vanessa Stolban, Helen Bates, Rosie Ginday. 7 Qasim Majid, Bobby Singh, Omar Rashid, Nina Wadia. Photography by Jas Sansi

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Join the queue as maple leaf’s favourite brand makes debut queue of 200 people greeted Canada’s biggest coffee brand as it opened its doors in Birmingham. Tim Hortons in New Street is the company’s first store in the Midlands. Chief commercial officer Kevin Hydes cut the ribbon before coffee lovers got to enjoy some of the brand’s signature products, such as the famous Timbits and French Vanilla. A number of Canadians now living in Brum were some of the first through the door as well as a number of die-hard Timbits fans who queued draped in Canadian flags. I

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1 Alex Claridge, Emma Tronson. 2 Mr and Mrs Tony Green. 3 Jaz Rohel, Sharon and Gov Butter, Anita Champaneri, Naomi Aly. 4 Cate Spree, Dhechen Lama. 5 Phil Oldershaw, Lucy Elvin. 6 Alev Dervish, Kevin Hydes, Anita Champaneri. 7 Jimi Shabir, Bernice Heard and friend.

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LEGAL FIRM HOSTS MERGER RECEPTION

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Clients toast deal between mfg and 100-year-old Pearson Rowe artners from law firm mfg Solicitors hosted a drinks reception for more than 150 guests at Birmingham’s Opus restaurant to mark its merger with historic city legal practice Pearson Rowe.

The merger expands mfg’s presence into Birmingham – widening the firm’s reach from its traditional Worcestershire and Shropshire roots. It comes as Pearson Rowe marks its 100th year after being founded at Colmore Row in 1918 by Geoffrey Pearson. I

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1 Mike Deeley, Suzanne Lee, Maynard Burton, Brian Flint. 2 Mohammed Zaman QC, Harjie Singh Bindra. 3 David Mitchell, Valerie Robinson, Mark Cupitt, Stephen Wyer. 4 Stephen Talboys, Maynard Burton, James Hayes, David Byram.

5 Maynard Burton, Lorraine Henry, Margarget

Henry, Harjie Singh Bindra. 6 Sally Morris, Charlotte Fullard, Ellie Hill, Kate Jones.

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Midlands media celebrated at Birmingham Press Club event irmingham Press Club’s Midlands Media Awards were held at Edgbaston Stadium.

Hosted by ITV Central’s Bob Warman, who is president of the Press Club, and Llewela Bailey from BBC West Midlands, the event was sponsored by HSBC UK, Birmingham City University, Bareface, mclcreate, Awarded2U and 7LOCO. The President’s Award went to Jonathan Gibson of BBC West Midlands while ITV Central’s Balvinder Sidhu won Story of the Year.

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1 Polly Bayfield, Jack Hadaway-Weller. 2 Paula Mitchell, Ali Bell. 3 Vijay and Anita Sharma-James, Sue Green, Adrian Kibbler. 4 Balvinder Sidhu, Michael Clarke. 5 Keith Harrison. 6 Jonathan Gibson, Bob Warman. 7 Pippa Langhorne. 8 Claire Harrison, Emma Ray, Enda Mullen, Katy Hallam. 9 Simon Morris, Mike Lockley.

january 2019

Photography: Stewart Lawley

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WHAT: Shen Yun WHEN: 11 to 13 January WHERE: Symphony Hall, box office 0121 345 0600 www.thsh.co.uk Five thousand years of civilisation – live on stage! After sold-out shows last season, Shen Yun is back with a brand-new production. Watch ancient legends, heavenly realms and modern tales of courage spring to life through classical Chinese dance.

WHAT: Fun Lovin’ Criminals WHEN: 31 January WHERE: The Mill Digbeth, www.themilldigbeth.com The multi-platinum New York trio returns with new material and a brand new tour that lkicks off here in Birmingham. The ‘Another Mimosa’ tour on the back of the new album continues to reflect the band’s love hip hop, soul, jazz and rock.

WHAT: Moot Moot WHEN: 23 January WHERE: Midlands Arts Centre, www.macbirmingham.co.uk Join renowned artists Rosana Cade and Ivor MacAskill as identical hosts Barry and Barry, spinning constant callouts from their wheelie office chairs in an outer space echo chamber. A very funny take on modern day communication.

WHAT: The Snowman WHEN: 16 to 26 January WHERE: Birmingham Rep, tel 0121 245 2024 www.birmingham-rep.co.uk

©Sian Baxter

Based on Raymond Briggs' much-loved book and featuring Howard Blake's classic song Walking In The Air, this enchanting live show has thrilled audiences throughout the world since first appearing on stage 25 years ago.

WHAT: Wedding Fayre WHEN: 27 January WHERE: The Belfry Hotel & Resort, www.thebelfry.com Congratulations! He finally popped the question on Christmas Day and now the real planning can begin. This is an ideal opportunity to help make your special day run as smoothly as possible.

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WHAT’S ON

WHAT: Welsh Wrestling WHEN: 26 January WHERE: Redditch Palace Theatre, tel: 01527 65203 www.redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk The Superstars of Welsh Wrestling return for an evening of all action mayhem. The glitz, the glamour, the thrills and the spills, there’s nothing quite like live family-friendly wrestling entertainment!

WHAT: The National Running Show

WHAT: Haroon Mirza

WHEN: 19 and 20 January

WHEN: Now until 24 February

WHERE: NEC,

WHERE: Ikon Gallery,

www.nationalrunningshow.com

www.ikon-gallery.org

The National Running Show is the UK’s biggest independent running exhibition, with all the kit, tech, nutrition, advice, inspiration and races you need to plan your running season!

This is the most comprehensive exhibition of work by Haroon Mirza in the UK to date, testing the limits of what we can experience and what we think we know with installations that include moving imagery, sculptural installation and electronic sound.

WHAT: A Night in the West End – Kerry Ellis WHAT: Beauty and the Beast

WHEN: 27 January

WHEN: 19 February to 2 March

WHERE: Town Hall, box office 0121 345 0600

WHERE: Birmingham Royal Ballet at Birmingham Hippodrome,

www.thsh.co.uk

www.brb.org.uk

Kerry Ellis joins forces with the renowned English Pro Musica and the Let’s Sing Choir for a musical extravaganza, featuring some of the most popular West End hits. Featuring music from Les Mis, We Will Rock You and Lion King to name a few.

A cruel Prince, cursed to spend the rest of his life living in a fantastical castle with the animals he callously hunted, finds salvation in the heart of a beautiful girl. Witness transformations, wild waltzes, soaring birds and the blossoming relationship between Belle and the Beast.

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WHAT’S ON

WHAT: The ‘Mamma Mia’ Party with Viva ABBA WHEN: 1 February WHERE: Nailcote Hall, tel: 02476 466174 www.nailcotehall.co.uk For all the dancing queens, don't miss a classic Mamma Mia night with this fantastic duo singing all the ABBA hits you love to dance to.

WHAT: Britain's Got Magic WHEN: 12 January WHERE: Belgrade Theatre, tel: 02476 553055 WHAT: Abigail's Party

www.belgrade.co.uk

WHEN: 21 to 26 January

Reaching the Live Finals of Britain’s Got Talent 2016, the award winning magician Christian Lee has clocked up over 40 million YouTube Hits worldwide with a cracking show that marries mind boggling illusions magic with his cheeky sense of humour.

WHERE: The Alexandra Theatre, tel: 0844 8713011 www.atgtickets.com/birmingham Mike Leigh’s iconic play is one of Britain’s most celebrated comedies. Featuring stage and TV star Jodie Prenger, Coronation Street and Emmerdale favourite Vicky Binns.

WHAT: As You Like It WHEN: From 14 February WHERE: Royal Shakespeare Theatre, tel: 01789 403493 www.rsc.org.uk Rosalind is banished, wrestling with her heart and her head.

With her cousin by her side, she journeys to a world of exile where barriers are broken down and all can discover their deeper selves. Kimberley Sykes directs a riotous, exhilarating version of Shakespeare's romantic comedy.

WHAT: Gary Delaney: Gagster's Paradise WHEN: 26 January WHERE: The Old Rep Theatre, tel: 0121 359 9444 www.oldreptheatre.co.uk One of Britain's leading one-liner comics and Mock the Week star returns to the road with another onslaught of lean, expertly crafted gaggery.

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WHAT’S ON

WHAT: Snow Patrol WHEN: 25 January WHAT: Chinese New Year

WHERE: Arena Birmingham, tel: 0844 338 8000

WHEN: 5 February WHERE: Various throughout the region It’s Year of the Pig and Birmingham’s annual Chinese New Year celebration is always special with special events in the Southside District of the city with lion dances, funfair rides, street food and a host of traditional entertainment.

www.theticketfactory.com This fabulous Northern Irish rock band rose to prominence in the 2000s as part of the post-Britpop movement. A cracking live band with a string of hits, although Leona Lewis’s version of one is probably better known.

WHAT: Peter Pan WHEN: 19 December to 27 January WHERE: Birmingham Hippodrome, www.birminghamhippodrome.com Christmas may be over but there’s still time to enjoy this swashbuckling pantomime adventure. The all-star lineup is led by singing sensation Jimmy Osmond and Birmingham Living cover girl Meera Syal.

WHAT: The Dandy Warhols WHEN: 29 January WHERE: Birmingham O2 Institute www.academymusicgroup.com/ o2institutebirmingham 2019 sees The Dandy Warhols kick off the celebrations for their 25th Anniversary with a European Tour that celebrates the past but also looks to the future and the release of their 10th studio album.

WHAT: Ozzy Osbourne – No More Tours 2 WHEN: 9 February WHERE: Genting Arena, tel: 0844 338 8000 www.theticketfactory.com The Prince of Darkness returns to his hometown with his final global tour…probably. Having amassed record sales of more than 100 million records, Ozzy will take to the stage to celebrate five decades of performing. Joined by special guest Judas Priest.

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IN THE CITY WITH PIONEERING PROFESSOR CHARLES CRADDOCK, CBE TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF I am a consultant haematologist specialising in blood cancer and academic director of the Centre for Clinical Haematology at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham. I lead two national trial acceleration networks based at the hospital designed to improve drug and transplant therapies for patients with blood cancer. I am also the co-founder of blood cancer charity Cure Leukaemia.

HOW DO YOU GET INTO TOWN? I drive to work from Moseley when it is cold or rainy and to my shame only cycle in on sunny warm days. I hope the new Birmingham cycleway which is currently being built alongside Bristol Road will make it impossible for me to find any excuse not to cycle every day.

HOW’S THE COMMUTE? A breeze compared with London!

SAVING LIVES:

Prof ‘Charlie’ Craddock,

founder of Cure Leukaemia,

heads the centre at the QE which is transforming the treatment of blood cancer patients

IS BRUM A GOOD PLACE TO WORK IN? Our haematology programme delivers complex care to blood cancer patients from the whole of the West Midlands and consequently is located at the heart of one of the largest catchment regions in Europe. This has allowed us to deliver an international reputation for rapid delivery of clinical trials of the exciting wave of new drug and transplant therapies which are now becoming available and are transforming patient outcomes. As a consequence, Birmingham is a very exciting professional location. My family adores all the other benefits living in the city brings, including international test cricket at Edgbaston, great Black Country ales and fabulous food. Culture is the heart of any city so it’s fantastic to see the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO) thrive so impressively.

COFFEE BREAK? I am a great fan of the York Street Café on Navigation Street.

LUNCHTIME? For more structured lunch or evening meetings there is nowhere better than the private dining room at Opus restaurant.

POWERWALKING? It has to be Moseley Park.

WHERE’S YOUR FAVOURITE PART OF THE CITY? The Soho Road has particularly fantastic West Indian restaurants and bakeries.

AFTERWORK PINT? The Craven Arms near the Mailbox is great for a pint of pale ale.

HOW CAN THE CITY BE MADE BETTER? We must continue to tell the story to the rest of

the UK and the world of a Birmingham reborn – and nobody does this better than Andy Street, our inspirational West Midlands mayor. While it’s brilliant news that Camp Hill Chords railway line is opening, public transport in Birmingham must improve. I

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