Birmingham Living November 2019 issue 86

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EDITOR’S VIEW

T

he clocks have gone back, the nights are drawing in to the late afternoon and winter has arrived. Time to wrap up warm, crank up the heating, cosy up with a hot toddy – or do whatever else it is that you do to keep your body temperature up!

This month, we’re doing our bit with some nice features to stave off the winter chill – from great knitwear in our Style pages to warming dishes and dashes in our Food&Drink section. (Be sure to try the gorgeous Spiced Rum Hot Chocolate cocktail of the month, provided courtesy of the good folk at local Burning Barn Rum.) While your quaffing merrily in front of the fire, turn your mind to Christmas. Only a few weeks away now, the TV ads for everything from festive fare to toys and games for the kids, are starting to bombard our screens. Will we all be going crazy for Kevin the Carrot again this year? Personally, I’ve got my name down for a Pictionary Air, the digital Pictionary game, which looks like great fun for all the family.

One thing’s for sure, most of us will be partying/entertaining at some stage either leading up to Christmas or over the holiday itself – and we’ve also got some great ideas and tips to make any gettogether go with a swing in our Homes section this month. As they say, you can never plan too early if you want to be seen as the host or hostess with the mostest.

And an early reminder… Be sure not to miss our special Christmas Issue next month which will feature our now-famous Big Gift Guide. It’s packed with so many great present ideas that even Santa makes it a must-read!

s n h o J David

visit www.brumliving.co.uk @brum_living

Cover image:

/bhamliving

FINALIST

Laura Rollins

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

Laura Rollins

The Brum soap star talks about bagging the ultimate Doctors gig in her home town

Annette Badland You probably know her best as Babe from EastEnders, but there’s so much more to tell

Food & Drink Head chef of Chakana, Robert Ortiz, plus recipes, reviews and our Wine of the Year awards

Style Knit, knit hooray! Our pick of the gorgeous pieces that’ll keep you warm as well as chic

Health Go with the flow and boost your muscle health and well-being with the ancient art of tai chi

Homes Get ready, party season is coming – we show you all you need to be the host with the most

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CONTENTS

Best of the Rest

60 64 66 69 78 82 november 2019

Young, Gifted and Brummie

Triple-jump ace Abazz Shayaam-Smith looks forward to the Commonwealth Games in Brum

Up Close WithÁ Comedian and writer Shazia Mirza has an unfulfilled dream – to appear in a Bond film!

Business Feature Turning laughter into a business success story…

25 years of the amazing Glee Club

Business News Round-up from the commercial community, plus our Social Scene networking pages

What’s On Your guide to the shows, gigs and events in and around Birmingham this month

In The City Sue Cressman of Nailcote Hall turns to song to inspire fellow breast cancer sufferers

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NEWS

BILLION POUND BOOST A plan to grow the West Midlands visitor economy by more than £1billion and add 19,000 jobs has been launched. West Midlands Regional Tourism Strategy highlights how work to support the sector can help grow its economic value from £12.6 billion in 2018 to £13.7 billion during the next decade, a nine per cent increase. Showcasing world events such as Coventry City of Culture 2021 and Birmingham Commonwealth

NEWS Games 2022 to a wider audience are central to West

TOURIST ATTRACTION: Street art at the Custard Factory

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

Midlands Growth Company’s plans.

LIFE-SAVERS HIT THE ROAD

Following the success of Midlands Air Ambulance Charity and the HELP Appeal’s first critical care car, which operates in Birmingham and the Black Country, the charities have launched a further cardiac vehicle in the Midlands. The charity’s critical care car team attended 1,214 incidents in the past year and, as part of the clinical care given, helped 28 more people survive an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. The new BMW X5

SIR JACKIE IN THE FRAME

cardiac car operates from the Strensham airbase.

A new painting featuring one of Britain’s greatest-ever racing drivers was unveiled at the British Motor Museum. Sir Jackie Stewart unveiled the work by renowned artist Michael Turner showing the former Formula One world champion driving the BRM-Rover Le Mans gas turbine racing car in 1965. Museum curator Stephen Laing said: “We are delighted to have been able to commission this wonderful painting which will be hung next to the Rover-BRM, one of the most prestigious cars in the museum’s collection.”

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NEWS

FEAST OF ART

What a weekend! More than 110 free events were held across 32 venues as the city rocked to Birmingham Weekender in Digbeth. Produced by Culture Central, artists and arts organisations came together to put on a packed programme of dance, music, art and performance. Steve Ball, director of Culture Central, said: “Birmingham Weekender in Digbeth created opportunities over three days to see something new in lots of amazing locations and to be inspired and proud of our city.”

FESTIVE EXPRESS All aboard for a Christmas treat that’ll get kids and grown-ups alike all steamed up with excitement. Back by popular demand after a sell-out 2018 festive season, Vintage Trains’ Polar Express is chuffing out of

DINNER DATE WITH MICHEL One of the world’s greatest chefs and star of TV celebrity kitchens is breaking out the whites to cook up something special this month. Michel Roux Jr is returning to Hampton Manor, Solihull for an intimate Chefs’ Supper Club evening on 29 November which will see guests have the opportunity to pick his brains and sample his food with a three-course meal, also presented by Peel’s Restaurant head chef Rob Palmer.

Birmingham Moor Street from Friday 22 November until Sunday 22 December. An in-train theatrical performance recreates all the magic of the 2004 motion picture, so the whole family can immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of the classic children’s tale. Ticket details at www.thepolarexpressbirmingham.com

CRAIG’S NEW STREET SURPRISE Commuters at Birmingham New Street had a journey to remember when top-selling singersongwriter Craig David staged a surprise gig. Local radio station BBCWM 95.6FM organised the live broadcast for listeners as part of BBC Music Day. Craig took to the stage under the train timetables to sing his new release Do You Miss Me Much.

BBC Music Day celebrates the power of music to change lives and featured more than 2,000 events across the UK.

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NEWS

PANTO IS COMINGÁ OH, YES IT IS! Picture: Simon Hadley

The cast of Snow White and the Seven

Dwarfs got together for their first costume rehearsal at Birmingham Hippodrome – and some familiar faces were in evidence. The panto, from 21 December to 2 February, includes audience favourites Lesley Joseph (the Wicked Queen), Matt Slack (Muddles) and Joe McElderry (Spirit in the Mirror). The production is directed by Michael Harrison who has been at the helm of the Hippodrome pantomime for the last nine years.

SHOUT OUT FOR JUNO Returning to Birmingham to celebrate its 10th anniversary, SHOUT Festival of Queer Arts and Culture will present 12 days of internationally renowned LGBTQ+ performance, film, and visual arts at 12 venues across the city in its boldest programme ever. The festival launches on Tuesday 5 November at Birmingham’s Nightingale Club with an opening party featuring performances from leading cabaret artists, including Juno Birch, pictured. Tickets can be booked at www.shoutfestival.co.uk

CYRILLE’S HALL OF FAME Midlands football legend Cyrille Regis has been honoured with the sport’s top accolade.

The prestigious National Football Museum’s Hall-of-Fame Award was presented to Cyrille’s widow Julia and his brother Dave by former England and Liverpool winger John Barnes, a previous inductee into the Hall of Fame, during a ceremony at Aston Villa – one of the four West Midlands clubs he represented. The presentation took place during a Strike A Change event, the mentoring programme of the Cyrille Regis Legacy Trust.

POP-UP STYLE IN STORE A new innovative high-end pop-up shop is aiming to raise £20,000 for vulnerable children.

Action for Children threw open the doors of its Birmingham store which stocks brand new and sample items from retailers, along with a wide variety of children’s clothing. The concept has proved so popular that Birmingham will be its third location, following openings in Watford and Norwich which have so far raised an impressive £92,000.

HOSPITALITY HERO LEO A senior sous chef at Birmingham’s Michelin-starred Simpsons Restaurant has won a prestigious new award. Leo Kattou was named winner of the Kraft Heinz and Arena ‘57 Hospitality Heroes’ food service competition. The accolade recognises hospitality professionals under 30 who give something back to the industry in their spare time. Leo impressed the judges with his commitment to charity work and support for the next generation of young chefs.

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NEWS

GLOBAL TRIBUTE This stunning work by Midlands artist David Cheeseman is lighting up a major international arts festival. Entitled Matter Not, the dramatic globe was completed by David’s wife, Mhairi Vari, following his death in 2018. It is on display at Herbert Art Gallery and Museum as part of Coventry Biennial, a festival of contemporary art. David, a previous recipient of the prestigious Henry Moore Foundation Sculpture Fellowship at Coventry University, was a senior lecturer in fine art at Birmingham City University.

SING A SONG OF BREXIT

IN BRIEF CITY OF THE DEAD GOLD FOR JOE Gymnast Joe Fraser is the toast of Birmingham after winning Britain’s first-ever gold medal on the parallel bars at the World Championships in Stuttgart. The youngest competitor in the event, Joe said: “World champion? It’s a dream come true!”

MANNY’S PRIDE Birmingham Network Rail signaller Manjinder Kang has been nominated for a Pride of Britain fund-raiser award.

Known as Manny to his friends, he was shortlisted for the Daily Mirror award after raising more than £40,000 for Dementia UK.

SALON DOUBLE It’s a double celebration for Birmingham-based hair salon Griffins as the team scooped two awards at this year’s West Midlands Salon Awards. Griffins took the Creative Image of the Year and Best Salon for Extensions titles.

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If you’re into haunted locations and terrifying tales… walk this way!

Tour operator Brum Tours has launched the City of the Dead Birmingham Ghost Walk. Sounds spooky? Well it is, with a guided visit to locations and landmarks reputed to be haunted – including Birmingham’s principal railway station and premier theatre. The stories are a combination of social history, gruesome tales and historical mysteries, dealing with murder, executions, plague and much more. Wooooo……

COMEDY AWARD

A 60-strong band of young Birmingham musicians performed at the European Parliament in Brussels in a bid to highlight Brexit and climate change concerns. The acclaimed Joe Broughton’s Conservatoire Folk Ensemble – who we featured in our June issue – comprising of music students from the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire at Birmingham City University, wowed the audience of MEPs, parliament staff and campaigners in the Yehudi Menuhin Space, delivering the biggest live music performance in the landmark’s history.

Comedian Celya AB describes her style as “a bit daft, a bit surreal and a bit on the weird side”. It won her plenty of admirers when she picked up the prestigious Birmingham Comedy Festival Breaking Talent Award.

Celya AB was a hit with the sell-out audience at the

Glee Club where she received the region’s biggest comedy prize from BBCWM presenter Lisa Smith.

Originally from Paris, Celya AB’s win came exactly five

GOT ANY NEWS? Email your news and pictures to editor@brumliving.co.uk years to the day after moving to Birmingham.

Picture: Dave Freak

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COVER STORY

HOME GIRL SHELLEY CARTER CHATS TO ACTOR LAURA ROLLINS ABOUT GROWING UP IN BRUM, BAGGING THE DOCTORS TV GIG IN HER HOME TOWN AND FUTURE GOALS etter known as feisty nurse Ayesha Lee in BBC One daytime drama Doctors, Laura Rollins was thrilled when she got the role which meant filming in her home town, not least because it meant using the beloved lilting Brummie accent.

Laura won a Royal Television Society award for acting performance last year and is regularly nominated in the British Soap Awards. With some big storylines coming up, life on the soap is great. As well as the sort of show where you ‘earn your stripes’, Laura gets to live with her parents from Monday to Friday when she’s filming travelling back ‘home’ to London at the weekend.

B

CUSTARD FACTORY Laura’s route into acting began at youth theatre in the Custard Factory, aged nine, of which she says: “It was weekly, free and completely accessible. So good.” Soon after, Laura was offered a coveted place at the Carlton Junior Television Workshop under Colin Edwards which she says was a great place to develop skills at a young age.

A stint in Demon Headteacher on kid’s TV aged just 10 and numerous commercials as well as work on stage at the REP followed.

Laura says she was always into performing and dance, particularly ballet was a big part of her life. She’s modest, but in her youth she was a junior associate with the world-class Birmingham Royal Ballet for a time which is an incredible achievement.

Not certain if she wanted to go down an acting route, Laura studied English and Theatre at the University of Leeds before going to drama school in the capital. While Laura says there are some great drama schools in the Midlands, she trained in London partly because at the time there was a bit of stigma and some pressure to cast actors from London.

She says: “It’s starting to disappear now. There’s a massive talent pool in the Midlands.”

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COVER STORY

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COVER STORY

“

Laura’s modest, but in her youth was a junior associate with Birmingham Royal Ballet

”

Doctors was on Laura’s radar before the part of Ayesha came up. Laura says: “It’s a Brummie based show and I just thought ‘I want to do that!’” A friend told Laura the show was looking to cast a feisty nurse which she thought had Laura’s name all over it. Her agent promptly put her up for it. Laura was called on a Thursday to come in for an audition the following day with six scenes to learn. “I pulled a sickie from work and remember pretending to be ill all the way to the audition in case I bumped into a colleague.”

A recall the following week on a bank holiday meant cancelling plans much to the annoyance of her boyfriend. Laura remembers hoping it would all be worth it. She performed four scenes and had to wait a week for a decision. It turns out it was worth it. “My mum loves it too, so that’s nice!”

HEAVYWEIGHTS The hours are long and intense shooting 25 pages of script per day, but Laura’s relishing it and learning so much. Playing the death of Ayesha’s mother was particularly challenging emotionally, but allowed Laura to dig deep and use her skills. Working with heavyweights like Jan Pearson and Elizabeth Walsh is incredible too. Although it’s a cliché to say it’s like

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a family, the cast sounds pretty close and love exploring Birmingham together. “There’s so much going on in the city. I’m big on dance so the DanceXchange appeals a lot, but as a cast we like to try out new restaurants. Adam’s is obviously great and Original Patty Men does the best burgers and craft beer and Digbeth Dining Club is so cool. There was nothing like it before DDC even in London.”

CRIME DRAMA Speaking of which, weekends which are usually spent in London are becoming increasingly time spent in Brum with Laura’s DJ boyfriend actively looking for gigs in the city. “He loves it! Could there be a relocation on the cards?!”

It’s hard to look beyond Doctors right now, but Laura’s keen to do more TV. She says: “There is such great TV at the moment and I’d really love to do a crime drama. There’d be more time, so you’d be shooting three pages a day rather than multiple episodes, so that would be different.”

One of Laura’s heroes is Toni Collette who is currently rocking Netflix hit Unbelievable. “Toni Collette is an absolute powerhouse in Unbelievable as is Merritt Wever who plays the young detective. She is so subtle, but so powerful at the same time.” I

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FEATURE

BORN TO ACT ANNETTE BADLAND FELL IN LOVE WITH ACTING AS A YOUNG GIRL WATCHING SHAKESPEARE AT BIRMINGHAM’S OLD REP. SHE TALKS TO DAVID JOHNS ABOUT HER ILLUSTRIOUS CAREER WHICH SPANS STAGE, TV AND RADIO, PLUS HER ROLE AS EVIL AUNT BABE IN EASTENDERS

s a seven-year-old, Annette Badland fell in love with acting after seeing her first stage performance at Birmingham’s Old Rep. It made such an impression on her that she says she knew from that moment that she would be an actress.

After the family home moved from close by Edgbaston cricket ground to Tamworth when Annette was aged 12, she saved every penny she could from her pocket money to get the train into Brum by herself so she could follow her love of acting – and Shakespeare in particular – at the historic theatre. “I got the train as often as I could,” she says, “but not as often as I would have liked!”

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HONOURED A few weeks ago, the childhood experience came full circle when the star of countless TV, stage, film and radio roles returned to the Old Rep to be honoured as its new patron. And Annette was as thrilled to receive the accolade as any acting award. She said: “The Old Rep was so important to me when I first fell in love with theatre and acting, so I was utterly delighted, surprised and honoured to become a patron. It is really important to me as I was born and bred in Edgbaston, so Birmingham is my home town and my beginnings.”

Olivier-nominated actress Annette is best known for her roles in Doctor Who, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Cutting It and most recently Midsomer Murders. But for millions of fans of the BBC soap EastEnders, Annette is most associated as Aunt Babe, the devious and villainous relative of the Carters at the Queen Vic.

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She chuckles as she accepts that despite a lifetime of acting at the highest level, she is most often recognised as Aunt Babe. “I’d worked before with the executive producer of EastEnders and he said he wanted to find a part for me in the show,” Annette explains. “Babe started out as an ordinary kind of character but her wickedness just grew and grew as it went along. She really ended up being rather unpleasant! EastEnders was the first non-finite drama I had done – there’s no real beginning, middle or end. With a soap, you never know as an actor what is going to happen next.”

Annette remembers how she came to realise at an early age that she had what it takes to entertain an audience. “At a parents’ day my class chanted my poem and I found that I could make people laugh. I could be a clown in the classroom and I took part in all the school plays and dramas.”

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FEATURE

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FEATURE

After attending drama school in London, Annette joined Sir Ian McKellen’s Actors’ Company before moving to the Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford. Her career reads like a Who’s Who catalogue of theatres – she has appeared at most of London’s most famous playhouses, including productions this year at the Globe.

COMING HOME Her TV CV is equally impressive – as is her radio résumé – covering drama, comedy, sci-fi and soaps. As we spoke, she was grabbing time between filming for a new ‘secret’ series which should be completed early this month.

Work often dictates that Annette has to be in London but she still finds plenty of time to ‘come home to Brum’. “I’ve still got my parents’ house just outside Birmingham,” she says. “I am a regular visitor to the city.

Coming home is me being me, relaxing and walking in the countryside. I get back just as often as I can.”

STILL DREAMING As a patron of the Old Rep, Annette joins fellow patrons Brian Cox, Toyah Willcox, Brian Blessed and June Brown and has been dedicated a seat in the auditorium – Stalls, Row F Seat 7. She took her seat during a special visit after being welcomed at the stage door by the Old Rep team, who led her on a tour around the building to reminisce about her time at the theatre.

Annette’s dedicated seat has a plaque that reads: “Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it”. Are there any dreams left for Annette to fulfil we wonder? “I’ve always fancied playing Lady MacBeth but it has just never happened – not yet, anyway,” she says. I

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FOOD & DRINK

ROBERT ORTIZ

The head chef of new Peruvian restaurant Chakana in Moseley, and formally head chef at Michelin-starred Lima London, reveals how a school cooking competition gave him a taste for creating great food

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CHEF’S CORNER

Tell us about your cooking My style of cooking is simple, fresh, light and healthy. I love to mix Peruvian ingredients with local ones – this makes sense in so many ways, and I’ve found great produce from all around the British Isles.

How did you become a chef?

I’ve loved to be in the kitchen ever since I was very young. My key early moments were probably a school competition and then being introduced to international cuisine when I moved to the capital, Lima. The biggest influences were my grandmother and my mother. I spent most of my evenings helping them prepare food at home. I still remember the wonderful aromas of their cooking.

ROBERT’S SUPER SCALLOPS Visit www.brumliving.co.uk to make Robert’s Scallops Tiradito – a recipe of hand-dived scallops with chilli tiger’s milk and chia seeds.

What do you eat when at home?

I love roast chicken with potatoes and lots of vegetables – mostly comfort food.

Is the customer always right?

Absolutely. We have to be focused on their needs above all.

Who’s the best chef in the world and why?

I don’t believe there is one best chef. The ones I admire are those who bring inspiration to chefs, are conserving nature in as many ways as they can and are teaching the next generation. I’m getting to know the Birmingham food scene – perhaps ask me again in six months’ time!

Share a cooking tip Boil your potatoes for a couple of minutes before baking them. They will caramelise and crumble slightly better.

What was your favourite food as a kid?

I used to love to eat root vegetables like yam potatoes and fresh river fish.

Food heaven and food hell?

Food heaven is slow-cooked octopus with achiote and quinoa. I don’t like dried fish with nuts…

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

Fried Amazonian ants.

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

In another life I’d be a vet or an archaeologist.

What do you recommend from this evening’s menu?

Try everything! The menu is made up of elements that are designed to work in combination. I Chakana Restaurant, 140 Alcester Road, Moseley, B13 8HT. Tel: 0121 448 9880 www.chakana-restaurant.co.uk

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SEASON’S EATINGS

TIME TO GET SAUCEY Hands up, who buys cranberry sauce in a jar? Well, don’t… because making it yourself couldn’t be easier with Mary Berry’s tasty recipe

t’s never too early to start planning for Christmas. This year why not challenge yourself with a delicious, fresh homemade cranberry sauce. This powerful little winter berry is considered a superfood and a great source of vitamins and antioxidants. They’re also bang in season this month – and even better, this sauce is inspired by the Queen of Christmas, none other than Mary Berry herself.

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Ingredients

100g light muscovado sugar 100ml orange juice

250g pack fresh cranberries (or frozen if you prefer) Large pinch ground allspice

Large pinch ground cinnamon Optional to make it proper festive: 25ml port

25ml cider vinegar

Method: Tip the ingredients into a pan, stir and bring to the boil. Then simmer for around eight to 10 minutes until the cranberries are tender but still holding their shape. The sauce will thicken as it cools. It should keep in the fridge for about a week. On the day, bring to room temperature before serving.

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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

BALLROOM’S GRAND UNVEIL Following an ambitious renovation project, Birmingham’s Macdonald Burlington Hotel officially unveiled its spectacular grand ballroom to the public. The city-centre hotel held a celebration for more than 200 guests, including local councillors, industry leaders and members of the business community to reveal the contemporary design. Investment in the hotel has exceeded £1million, with the 500-person capacity Horton Suite undergoing the most extensive revamp.

PULLING POWER

OPHEEM EARNS STAR BILLING Congratulations to Opheem in

Summer Row which has earned its first Michelin star in the 2020 edition

SELINA COMES TO THE JQ

of the restaurant guide. Opheem

The doors have opened at the new Selina

Peels at Hampton Manor, Purnell’s

joins Adam’s, Carters of Moseley,

Sadler’s Brewing Co gave away Birmingham hotel in the heart of the city’s Jewellery and Simpsons who all retained their 500 free pints of its popular Quarter. Offering an eclectic range of vibrant spaces, Michelin stars. Michelin hailed the Peaky Blinder Lager to celebrate including a sociable lobby space, dedicated wellness “progressive Indian cooking” of the opening of its new area, coffee shop, cocktail bar and a Latin-American Opheem chef director, Aston-born Brewer’s Social in Harborne.

Aktar Islam and said his food blended restaurant and wine bar, Selina Birmingham also Special ‘The Drinks Are On Us’ “traditional techniques with a features 39 uniquely designed private rooms, beermats were scattered across modern outlook”. suites and shared rooms. The hotel is the the city giving lucky finders a second UK location for the Latinfree pint at the new venue.

American start-up.

Brewer’s Social Harborne is the EAT HEALTHY WITH SALAD BOX third venue in Sadler’s A new, healthy fast food eatery is serving up a treat in Birmingham. Salad Box, Great Charles Street Queensway, provides nutritious meals and snacks with a focus on fresh expanding roster, which includes vegetables and fruit. Customers can select from a menu of classics or customise their Sadler’s Brewhouse & Bar in Lye own meal with a wide range of vegetarian and gluten/vegan-friendly options. The and Sadler’s Taproom Quinton.

Birmingham franchise is driven by Tara Johal, a proud Brummie with more than 15 years experience in retail management in the city.

OKO BRINGS NEW VIBE

Pan-Asian restaurant OKO has relaunched at Brindleyplace with a new look, menu and vibe – bringing a contemporary Japanese dining and dancing experience to the heart of Birmingham. Featuring the new concept of ‘Dine till dusk and dance till dawn”, OKO is aiming to shake up the city’s latenight dining scene with a menu specialising in delicately crafted sushi, prepared by a dedicated sushi chef, as well as dim sum and sashimi.

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COCKTAIL OF THE MONTH

SPICED RUM HOT CHOCOLATE Locally produced craft rum, dark chocolate, cinnamonÁ winter has never tasted better! rrr! It’s getting cold outside! Time for the perfect winter warmer – but with a bit of a kick. Step forward this brilliant cocktail, Spiced Rum Hot Chocolate, using locally produced craft Burning Barn Spiced Rum, strong dark chocolate, honey and a nice dash of cinnamon.

Perfect! As always, drink responsibly. .I

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ALL YOU NEED TO MIX IT UP BEAUTIFULLY

METHOD:

INGREDIENTS: (Will make four cups)

Pour the milk into a saucepan and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat, add

I 4 tsp cocoa powder

the chocolate and cinnamon. Stir constantly until the chocolate is melted.

I 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Add cocoa powder, sugar and rum. Simmer for a further minute or two

I 500ml milk

amount of marshmallows/whipped cream/chocolate sauce.

I 100g dark chocolate (70 per cent cocoa content)

before turning off the heat. Pour into mugs and top with an indecent

I Brown sugar/honey to taste I 100ml rum

I Marshmallows (optional)

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RESTAURANT REVIEW

CRAFT DINING ROOMS

Unit 10, ICC, Birmingham, B1 2EA. Tel: 0121 655 5550 craftdining.co.uk ou don’t want to see us when we’re hungry.

It’s not pretty. Team that with being caught in a biblical downpour minus a brolly and we’re best avoided. With rain literally (proper meaning) dripping from the end of our nose and mascara stinging our eyes we bungled into Craft feeling less than tip-top.

If the staff were alarmed, they didn’t show it.

They whisked the sodden jacket away while I composed myself. The other half was already seated – he was alarmed. A drink was eagerly welcomed.

A glass of local Severn Vale Sauvignon Blanc was recommended by a waitress who was so knowledgeable we thought she was the sommelier.

It turns out the staff at Craft are trained really well with visits to vineyards, meetings with producers and tastings as standard and it showed.

Launched over the summer – traditionally a quiet time in the restaurant game – Craft has been building in confidence and honing skills so the team is ready for the onslaught of the busy period we’re in now.

When we visited it was still in this honing period and we found some of the food mixed. We ate some wonderful dishes like buttermilk chicken with a crunchy flavour-packed coating served with a curry emulsion and puffed rice. Then there was unctuous pork belly with a deep rich jus we wanted to slurp straight from the jug.

But there was also a confusing duck egg wrapped in chewy filo pastry with an orange salad and slightly

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overdone halibut that was served with a brilliant butter sauce and a truly delicious broccoli puree – four words we thought we’d never write!

Dessert was entirely a triumph. Rice pudding, but not as you know it, had a crunchy crème brulee style top and was served with a perfect jam, while a chocolate choux dish we’d wanted to try since reading about it, lived up to expectation and then some.

The main menu is on the pricey side while the set menu is a steal and the wine list is inventive, largely local and different to others in the city. It’s one to watch and we’d definitely recommend a trip. I

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LUNCHSPOT

CIELO

6 Oozells Square, Brindleyplace, B1 2JB. Tel: 0121 632 6882 cielobirmingham.com ielo’s velvet lined walls have hosted many a celebration over the years. Lively and welcoming in a way that Italian restaurants are famed for, it’s a place that makes us feel warm. A testament to its wide appeal, when we popped in there were groups of friends celebrating birthdays, a newborn baby sleeping in a buggy while its frazzled parents snatched some grown-up chat, ladies who lunch and suits taking a break from the office.

The menu was a big one that required a glass of pinot grigio to navigate. One of us plumped for the set menu (£22.95 for three courses), the other had the a la carte. There was lots that appealed on both.

Soup of the day – broccoli and asparagus – was a bit forgettable, while mushrooms with gorgonzola, herby breadcrumbs and truffle was anything but.

Meaty, earthy and rich it was seriously delicious.

A lamb crown wasn’t quite what we expected. It was more like a Barnsley chop. Having said that the meat was very good and perfectly pink, but while the sauce looked like it was going to knock our socks off, it didn’t somehow.

Sea bass fillets were cooked beautifully served with a juicy prawn and a moreish crab ravioloni. The accompanying shellfish sauce had a gloopy texture that was a bit off-putting. It didn’t take away from the loveliness of the rest of the dish, it was just a bit odd.

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An oozing scrumptious milk chocolate fondant was just perfect and everything we want from a pud and as you’d expect, the tiramisu was brilliant. Our lovely waitress declared that you can never leave an Italian restaurant without trying the tiramisu and she was right. Dreamy.

The positives outweighed the minor sauce-related blips and as well as being the kind of place we’d happily while away a few hours, it’s pretty good value, too. I

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FOOD & DRINK

AND THE WINNERS ARE… REDS, WHITES, FIZZ! ROB PRICE REVEALS THE BOTTLES THAT TICKLED HIS PALATE TO EARN HIS PERSONAL ‘WINE OSCARS’ OF 2019

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FOOD & DRINK

know I am very fortunate that tasting wine is my job – and I do taste a lot of wine during the course of my ‘work’. So, I thought I would share with you some of my favourite wines from the past 12 months.

I’m going to start with my favourite tasting event, Chateau Musar. These red wines from Lebanon are unique in style and we tasted a range of different vintages.

It was a delight to be able to compare such great wines together in a single evening. They are well worthwhile seeking out for the quality they offer and their value for money. The Wine Society has a couple of vintages to try.

When asked my favourite region I always go for Bordeaux with its great range of wines – more on that later – but if asked for my desert island wine it is Tokaji Aszu.

They have such great complexity and pair so well with a range of foods. Frazier’s has a good one to try.

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TOASTY AND RICH When it comes to fizz, I generally prefer Champagne. I like the toasty and rich flavours Champagne delivers.

Serving it at the right temperature, about 10 degrees Celsius, will ensure it tastes at its best. My favourite is Nicolas Maillart, a small Champagne grower I visited last

ROB’S OF ‘19 1

4

I must start with Chateau Musar. Their 2005 vintage is drinking very nicely now. Very complex with silky tannins and full of spice,

wonderfully fragrant and fresh. The Wine Society sells – unfortunately they only have the magnum available, oh dear what a shame! Great value at £69.

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The next wine is a brilliant Beaujolais from Morgon. Not normally able to hit the heights of other French wine regions, but La Voute Saint-Vincent,

Domaine Louis Claude is a delight. Very fresh and crisp with red fruits and great depth of flavour. Berry Brothers sells the 2017 vintage for £15.95

3

Tesco’s Finest Vina del Cura Gran Reserva Rioja 2012 vintage. Now, I know that choosing a wine from Tesco’s Finest range may cause a

few eyebrows to be raised, but this is simply the best Rioja I’ve tasted,

year. His Champagnes have precision and finesse with a lovely saline finish. Have a look at www.wine-searcher.com and you’ll find a few places that stock in the UK. More readily available and my favourite Grand Marque Champagne is Taittinger, made with a blend of more than 20 reserve wines and with a richness that sets it apart. Buy when on special offer and you can pick up for around £25 a bottle. Even better value is Tesco’s Louis Delaunay, again with wonderful richness that belies its rock bottom price of £10.50 when on offer.

BREAD AND BUTTER Two Chardonnays I’ve enjoyed drinking this year, both showing enjoyable oaky characteristics, are Bread and Butter sold by Majestic and the Wine Society’s Exhibition range Pouilly Fuisse. Try with chicken cooked in a rich creamy sauce, making sure again you drink at the right temperature, this time about 12 degree Celsius.

I like the Cono Sur range of wines from Chile, their entry level Bicicleta range is really good value for money where you can taste all the major grape varieties from Chile for less than £10 per bottle. And if you want to step up in class, then their 20 barrels range is excellent, especially the Pinot Noir. Waitrose sells for £20.

MATURE AND COMPLEX Another wine from Waitrose that I have enjoyed this year is Lalande d’Auvion. As mentioned, my favourite wine region is Bordeaux – the sheer choice and diversity of wines is huge.

Wonderful, easy drinking inexpensive reds and whites to premium barrel aged reds that mature so beautifully, and complex whites like Sauternes that rival Tokaji for the desert island spot. So, to pick one is a challenge but Lalande d’Auvion is a great example of a fine red Bordeaux wine from the Medoc region and is superb value at around £15 a bottle.

As you can see, it’s been a year of great wines to taste… so, not easy to pick my top four. But after much deliberation, I’ve come up with my ultimate selections (see left). Cheers to 2019! I

and delivers such complexity and depth. Amazing value at only £11.50 – even better when on offer.

4

An amazing Chardonnay to finish my top four. Jacques Saumaize’s Poncetys 2015 Chardonnay from Saint Veran in Burgundy is a round

Birmingham Wine School is an independent wine education company offering fun informal wine tasting events and Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) courses in Birmingham, Sutton Coldfield and Warwick.

full-bodied wine and with an array of flavours that linger long in the mouth.

NEW Café Rouge evenings! More details from Rob Price on

The Wine Society sells for £17.50 a bottle.

0121 270 7359 www.birminghamwineschool.com

november 2019

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ADVERTORIAL

BEST CHRISTMAS MARKETS IN EUROPE FLY FROM BIRMINGHAM AIRPORTTO EXPERIENCE ALLTHE SIGHTS, SOUNDS – AND SHOPPING – THIS FESTIVE SEASON

hristmas brings to mind trees dotted with twinkling fairy lights, hot toddies on cold nights, baked treats with warm spices, familiar carols wafting through the air and merry spirits all around. To find all these things together, head to one of Europe’s famous Christmas markets.

Originally a German tradition, Christmas markets have spread throughout Europe, and most major cities have their own version.

Treat yourself to a festive winter break this year and book a flight from Birmingham Airport to one of these Christmas markets today!

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PRAGUE The largest and most popular markets are on the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square. Old Town Square Christmas market has a huge, real tree as the centrepiece

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and stands in front of the Church of Tyn so you can get some great photos. Beautifully decorated with lights and ornaments, the tree really comes to life after sunset, when you can see it in all its lit-up glory.

Located just a short walk from the markets in Old Town Square, the Prague Christmas market in Wenceslas Square is another popular market. Popular food on offer includes large hams roasted on a spit (Pražská Šunka); tasty barbequed sausages (klobása); and a variety of sweets and cakes, such as spicy gingerbread and a hot sugar-coated pastry (trdelník).

Dates: Old Town Square market runs from 1 December 2019 – 6 January 2020, Wenceslas Square market runs from 1 December 2019 –6 January 2020.

Getting there: Fly from Birmingham Airport with Jet2.com and enjoy the magic of Christmas in Prague.

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ADVERTORIAL

outdoor ice rink and a children’s petting zoo.

The typical Christmas market food is abundantly present – mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, grilled meats.

But don’t limit yourself. Try some of the delicious local fare, such as töki pompos, a savoury-topped bread.

Dates: Vörösmarty Square Winter Festival runs from early November until 1 January. Advent Fair in Óbuda is from 29 November to 22 December.

Getting there: Fly from Birmingham Airport with Wizz Air or Jet2.com.

BUDAPEST The Christmas market in Vörösmarty Square is Budapest’s oldest and biggest Christmas market. Located in the city centre, it has a reputation for being both lively and affordable. Unlike many other Christmas markets, Vörösmarty Square has strict rules requiring that all products have the official seal of approval from the Association of Hungarian Folk Artists, meaning that the level of quality is high. Handmade Christmas ornaments, including fragrant pomander balls of orange and clove and colourful leather bags, are all sold here.

For a smaller, lesser-known market visit the Advent Fair in Óbuda where you will find lots of locals but few tourists. This neighbourhood has beautiful cobblestone streets and renovated baroque buildings, giving it a charming small-town feel. The whole community comes together for the Christmas market with an illuminated

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COPENHAGEN The city’s famous Christmas market at Tivoli Gardens is a majestic affair. Having the second oldest amusement park in the world as its setting gives this Christmas market a distinct old-world feel. There are hundreds of thousands of tiny lights festooning every part of the park, a breath-taking water and lights show to a Tchaikovsky soundtrack, a village of tiny wood cottages decorated with garlands, a candlelit Japanese pagoda and a 100-year-old wooden rollercoaster stretching into the sky.

Skating on an outdoor ice rink, chatting with Santa, playing with real reindeer, finding the perfect Christmas gifts, watching fireworks burst into the sky – you can do all this and more at the Tivoli Gardens Christmas market.

For food, the list of treats is endless: æbleskiver (iced doughnuts with black currant jam) gløgg (hot mulled red wine rich with fruit, almonds, cinnamon and cloves), pølsers (Danish hot dogs) or roast pork sandwiches.

Dates: Tivoli Gardens Christmas market runs from 17 November to 31 December.

Getting there: SAS flies from Birmingham Airport up to twice daily over the winter period so you can experience the charming Christmas market in Copenhagen. I

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CHECK MATE

Elements pullover £90, Betty Barclay

KNIT, KNIT HOORAY A COSY KNIT IS A THING OF BEAUTY AND THIS SEASON IS AWASH WITH GORGEOUS PIECES THAT’LL KEEP YOU WARM AS WELL AS CHIC

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STYLE

ROCK ’N’ ROLL

Jumper and trousers, Very

ANIMAL MAGIC

Yellow leopard print jumper £28, Dorothy Perkins

FINE KNIT

Elsa cardigan £49.95, White Stuff

MELLOW YELLOW

Petite yellow jumper £20, TU Clothing

SLEEVES PLEASE

Balloon sleeve neutral sweater £38, Oasis

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NEUTRAL YAY!

Diane Von Furstenberg merino wool blend jumper £480, Harvey Nichols

he holy grail of stylish and practical is what winter dressing is all about and we absolutely love a good knit.

As you can imagine it’s been a real chore trawling the shops picking out our faves, but we did it just for you readers. Selfless.

From delicate lilac to punchy red, colour is king. Mustard is a having a moment in many forms, not least a very cute delicate knit from TU Clothing, pictured, that defies its supermarket price tag. The Dorothy Perkins mustard leopard print sweater, pictured, is a winner too as is a delicate cardi from White Stuff, pictured, that looks like it was lovingly knitted by your Nana.

Pink is big and the Gucci logo fitted sweater in a punchy bubble gum hue, pictured, is a stunner. Oliver Bonas does knitwear really well, in fact we could have filled these pages. The pink and red curved stripe sweater pictured is seriously good.

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NO SLOUCH

Isabel Marant Étoile chunky knit cardigan £335, Harvey Nichols

ICONIC

Burberry Icon stripe merino wool cardigan £450, Selfridges

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STYLE

OKAY CORAL

Star jumper £59.95, Oliver Bonas

STARRY NIGHTS

Jumper £29, M&Co

CABLE KNIT

Lilac cable sweater £36, Lipsy

TOP PICK

Curved stripe V-neck jumper £55, Oliver Bonas

POM POM

Ivory pom pom jumper £35, Lipsy

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Bold patterns make an appearance too from the classic Burberry striped cardigan pictured and bold chevrons a la Madeleine Thompson to diamonds on the high street. At the other end of the colour spectrum, a neutral knit is universally flattering and versatile enough to work hard with most of your wardrobe. The roll neck version at Oasis with cute balloon sleeves, pictured, is top of our list for cosiness and style while the Diane Von Furstenberg roll neck is lust-worthy.

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STYLE

PURPLE PATCH

Victoria Beckham wool jumper £245, Harvey Nichols

MAXIMUM COSINESS

Neon Frost jumper £65, White Stuff

EVERYDAY HERO

Jumper £24, M&Co

AUTUMN DREAMS

J by Jasper Conran colour block jumper £39, Debenhams

ALL YOU NEED

Stella McCartney X The Beatles intarsia wool jumper £725, Harvey Nichols

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STYLE

COLOUR BLOCK

Lowland jumper £55, White Stuff

CHEVRON HEAVEN

CUTE CASHMERE

Jumper £30, River Island

Madeleine Thompson Timothy chevron pattern cashmere jumper £300, Selfridges

IN THE NAVY

Pinewood cardi £59.95, White Stuff

GIRL’S BEST FRIEND

Diamond sweater £25, M&S

TRUE BLUE

Lily blue jumper £55, Oliver Bonas

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STYLE

WRAP UP

Khost jumper £40, M&Co

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BEAUTY UPDATE

THIS MONTH WE’VE PUT A COUPLE OF NEW RANGES THROUGH THEIR PACES AT DIFFERING ENDS OF THE PRICE SPECTRUM AND UNCOVERED SOME GEMS TO ADD INTO THE ROUTINE

DECREE BY DR AJ STURNHAM (Harvey Nichols)

It might be on the pricey side, but with Protect Elixir Daily/AM Serum (£110) you get what you pay for. The serum is packed with antioxidants, hyaluronic acid and vitamins and unlike lots of serums it’s gentle enough to be used around the eyes.

The pipette-style dispenser releases just the right amount of product which we like a lot and means it lasts really well. We’re a month in and still going strong.

Our skin definitely feels plumper and more youthful.

We’ve been using in tandem with the brand’s Light Cleanse (£44). The clue is in the name. This foaming rinse-off cleanser specially designed for use in the morning is incredibly light and gently removes overnight product and excess oil. It’s more about balancing than tough cleansing and it works a treat.

DISTILLERY RANGE (AVON, AVON.UK) Billed as ‘clean beauty without compromise’ this new range is vegan and each product contains on average 15 ingredients which is pretty good. We like the ethos and tried four skincare products from the range.

Clean Break cleanser (£15) feels like a proper deep clean for the skin and is made of 69 per cent apricot oil which works its magic. The gel style Sleep Potion (£18) left us feeling smooth and nourished, while the day cream Shade of the Day SPF25 (£18) which offers the brand’s most effective broad spectrum protection is difficult to rub in and left a bit of a white hue.

On the other hand we love the C-Shot Powder (£22) that provides a welcome dose of vitamin C in its purest undiluted form. A couple of shakes into your usual day moisturiser creates a luminous glow.

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STYLE FOR MEN

STYLE IT OUT Clothing from Burton

FIT KNITS

GREAT KNITWEAR PROVIDES THE ANTIDOTE TO GREY DAYS IN OUR BOOK, SO WE’VE PICKED OUT A HANDFUL THAT’LL

BOOST YOUR MOOD AS WELL AS YOUR STYLE CREDENTIALS

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STYLE FOR MEN

BRANDED Gucci logo knit wool cardigan £850, Selfridges

CLASSIC Ralph Lauren Polo funnelneck relaxed-fit wool jumper £145, Selfridges

HIGH NECK Tom Ford ribbed turtleneck wool jumper £945, Selfridges

great knit can elevate an outfit from average territory to wow-inducing in one swift move. The choice is huge – chunky, fine, funnel neck, round neck, plain, boldly patterned. You get the picture. The main thing is to ensure a good fit. Try lots of styles to see what suits your shape. It might be a jumper, but it isn’t one size fits all. Shop around. If you’re larger than average check out Jacamo. The Nordic knit, pictured, is a great example with longer sleeves and a more generous fit.

A turtleneck has universal appeal and there’s much to admire about the Tom Ford ribbed version, pictured. The cardigan is not to be underestimated either. Gucci’s brown logo cardi, pictured, has more than a touch of grandad chic about it in the very best of ways. On the high street, M&S has some cracking examples across the board and the quality is price-defyingly high, just be careful that the fit is more date night at Chakana than brunch at Wetherspoons.

PRINTS CHARMING 1904 tile jumper £38, Burton

A RIGHT STRIPES Striped sweater £19.50, M&S

LOW KEY Grey sweater £17.50, M&S LAZY DAYS Indigo textured crew neck sweater £42, FatFace

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OLD SCHOOL Grey Nordic sweater £35, Jacamo

NO FUSS Red jumper £30, Topman HOT TO TROT Mustard jumper £35, Steel & Jelly

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HEALTH

GO WITH THE FLOW THE ANCIENT ART OF TAI CHI COMBINES DEEP BREATHING

AND RELAXATION WITH GENTLE MOVEMENTS, HELPING TO PROMOTE AND STRENGTHEN MUSCLE HEALTH AND FITNESS

ooking after your muscles as well as heart is important to stay fit and healthy. Adults are advised to do muscle-strengthening exercises twice a week, as well as aerobic exercise, to help them stay active for longer under new UK doctor guidelines, which for the first time include advice on safe activity levels for pregnant women and new mums.

Also recommended is tai chi, which is especially good for the over 65s.

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The ancient art of tai chi combines deep breathing and relaxation with gentle movements. Also called tai chi chuan, it was originally developed as a martial art in 13th century China. Today it is practised around the world as a health-promoting exercise.

KEY BENEFITS Although tai chi is slow and gentle and doesn’t leave you breathless, it addresses the key components of fitness — muscle strength, flexibility, balance, and to a lesser degree aerobic conditioning. Here’s some of the evidence: Muscle strength – Tai chi can improve both lower-body and upper-body strength. When practised regularly, tai chi can be comparable to resistance training and brisk walking. Although you aren’t working with weights or resistance bands, the exercises strengthens both the lower and upper extremities and also the core muscles of the back and abdomen.

Flexibility – Tai chi can boost upper and lower-body flexibility as well as strength.

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HEALTH

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

Aerobic conditioning – Depending on the speed and size of the movements, tai chi can provide some aerobic benefits.

GETTING STARTED Tai chi is very safe and no fancy equipment is needed, so it’s easy to get started. Here’s some advice for doing so: Are there different styles of tai chi? Yes, such as yang, chen and wu. Some teachers often practice a combination of styles. The main differences between the different styles are in the speed of movement and the way the body holds the postures.

What’s the basic technique? Tai chi is characterised by its slow, graceful, continuous movements that are gentle on the joints and muscles. Done correctly, you’ll find that tai chi poses flow smoothly from one into another. Many movements are completed with bent knees in a squat-like position. Get advice from your GP before starting tai chi if

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you have any health concerns or an existing health condition.

You may need to take certain precautions if you’re pregnant, have a hernia, back pain or severe osteoporosis.

Take a class. Seeing a teacher in action, getting feedback and experiencing the camaraderie of a group are all pluses in learning tai chi. Most teachers will let you observe the class first to see if you feel comfortable with the approach and atmosphere. If you’d rather learn at home you can buy or rent videos geared to your interests and fitness needs.

Dress comfortably. Choose loose-fitting clothes that don’t restrict your range of motion. You can practice barefoot or in lightweight, comfortable and flexible shoes. Tai chi shoes are available but not necessary for a beginner – just make sure you choose shoes that won’t slip and provide enough support to help you balance but have soles thin enough to allow you to feel the ground. Running shoes, designed to propel you forward, are usually unsuitable.

Give it a chance. Most beginning programmes and tai chi interventions tested in medical research last at least 12 weeks, with instruction once or twice a week and practice at home. By the end of that time, you should know whether you enjoy tai chi and you may already notice positive physical and psychological changes. I

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HAPPY HOSTING

PARTY SEASON’S COMING. IF YOU’RE PLAYING HOST, BE SMART, PLAN AHEAD AND DON’T STRESS

DRINKS ON WHEELS Drinks trolley from Very

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HOMES

MINIMUM FUSS Accessories from Habitat

he best parties you’ve been to might seem effortless, but nothing could be further from the truth. If your host seems unflappable and the festivities go off with a bang rather than a hiccup, it’s because he or she has put in some serious effort before the big event.

Planning is not exactly rock ’n’ roll but it works. So make those lists, prep early and you might just enjoy your own party as well as giving your guests a shindig to remember for all the right reasons. We’ve created a basic list that you can add to depending on the sort of bash you’re planning and pulled together some interior inspiration to give your home a festive party vibe.

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PARTY-TOPPERS 1 Set the scene with a wow-inducing welcoming entrance. Consider well placed candles, fairy lights and a staircase garland. Also make sure you have a space for coats, etc.

2 Move big furniture out of the way, creating more space for guests to move around. Ensure there’s enough seating including a couple of cosy corners for people who might want to retreat from the action for a while.

3 Dim the lights to a flattering level. Everyone will be more relaxed. If you don’t have dimmer switches, dot a few lamps around the place.

4 Get your playlist at the ready to avoid awkward silences as the first guests arrive and ensure it’s a list that will appeal to the spread of people you’ve invited.

5 Serve nibbles in proportion to drinks.

Important.

GOLD RUSH Gold accessories from Amara

COUNTRY HOUSE VIBES Furniture from Lee Longlands

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HOMES

ART DECO Drinks trolley from Next

6 Stock the fridge with drinks well in advance so everything is chilled before people arrive. A sink full of ice will act as an effective overflow and don’t overlook non-alcoholic drinks.

7 Lots of small occasional tables dotted around are more likely to get guests mingling than a large central table.

8 If you have friends who smoke, cater for them too.

Create an outdoor space with candles and somewhere to put the butts. No one wants to spend the morning after picking up discarded fag ends.

9 Enjoy yourself!

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HOMES

GRAND ENTRANCE Accessories from Next 52 birmingham living

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HOMES

PARTY PIECES Furniture and accessories from Dunelm

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HOMES

PROPERTY MAGNIFICENT SEVEN

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

St Bernards Road, Solihull Guide price: £1million Agent: Fine and Country, tel: 0121 746 6400

A lovely three-storey, seven-bedroom Victorian property boasting oodles of original features, such as stained-glass windows, Minton flooring – and even a servant bell board. A sympathetic extension includes a double garage and games room.

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HOMES

SHARP SHOOTER Bath Street, Gun Quarter Guide price: £470,000 Agent: James Laurence, tel: 0121 604 4060 A unique one-bedroom penthouse apartment that boasts more than 1,200 sq ft and features an amazing open-plan kitchen/living/dining/sitting area that’s complemented by a spacious bedroom and ensuite.

Complete with secure gated parking space.

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HOMES

PRINCELY PAD Homer Road, Solihull Guide price: From £165,000 Agent: Smarthomes, tel: 0121 744 4144 or email newhomes@smarthomes.co.uk

A limited number of apartments are still available in the £30million Princes Gate development in Solihull. Finished to a very high standard, these one and two-bedroom pads are elegant, distinguished and come with dedicated car parking – all within a very short walking distance to the town centre.

PRIVATE LIFE

Birchy Leasowes Lane, Shirley Guide price: £850,000 Agent: Fine and Country, tel: 0121 746 6400 This immaculate six-bedroom, four-bathroom home is located on a gated, private development of only four houses. Representing spacious family living, there’s loads of reception space and more than 3,800 sq ft spread over three floors.

There’s also a secure four-car garage with a living roof.

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

LOFTS SELL OUT

BEST WORKPLACE

OFF PLAN

The Assay Lofts development in Charlotte Street

Birmingham’s Ingenuity House has been named

Midlands property investor and developer BPG has sold all of its Newland House PRS scheme in

was almost sold out, more than a month before

one of the best workplaces in the country at the

the first buyers were able to move in. Overlooking

British Council for Offices (BCO) annual national

central Birmingham prior to completion of the

St Paul’s Square, the apartments have ‘flown out

awards, taking home the innovation award.

works with total sales worth £7.3million. Located at Hagley Road, the building was purchased by

the door’ according to Elevate Property Group

The awards scheme recognises top quality office

sales and marketing director David Hofton. The

design and functionality across the UK.

BPG as part of an under-performing office

last remaining apartment was one of the ‘jewels of

The city’s Cornerblock was also awarded

portfolio and has been successfully converted into

the development’ – a luxury two-bedroom,

highly commended in the commercial workplace

41 apartments within easy walking distance of

two-bathroom duplex.

category.

the city centre.

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HOMES

WATER VIEW! Canal Wharf, City Centre Guide price: £425,000 Agent: Maguire Jackson, tel: 0121 634 15200

Dual balconies with canal views are among the attractions of this beautifully presented and well-maintained city centre top-floor apartment. Also featuring lovely open plan living/dining and kitchen, there’s two double bedrooms, one with en-suite, and a family bathroom.

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

november 2019

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MOTORING

ELECTRIC AVENUE WITH VOLVO ON THE ROAD TO FULLY-ELECTRIC CARS, SUE COOKE TAKES THE WHEEL OF THE NEW XC90 HYBRID PLUG-IN car powered by an all-electric motor is an alien to me, even though I have driven several around the streets of Birmingham. The city environment is where electric cars are at their best, but it is not a future I easily embrace.

Electrification is being introduced across the whole range of Volvo cars and in the next few years the company says it will have five fully electric cars with a decent expected range of 250 miles. “These times are exciting for manufacturers,” said Iain Howat, head of product and pricing for Volvo UK. The XC40 SUV will be the first electric car to arrive in 2020.

Personally, I prefer a safer step at a time, so would buy a hybrid and if the battery runs out, you have fuel back up.

Volvo expects to sell one million plug-in hybrid cars by 2025, where you drive up to 30 miles in battery mode before the

A

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engine automatically kicks in. With less CO2 emissions you pay less road tax, or none at all.

DESIGN CHANGES The new luxury Volvo XC90 has a revised T8 Twin Engine petrol-electric plug-in hybrid powertrain with an increase in the high-voltage battery’s capacity from 10.4 to 11.8 kilowatt hours. This increases the car’s electric-only driving range to a maximum of 28.6 miles – more than enough for an urban commuting journey. A new automatic gearbox brings improved fuel efficiency and slick gearshifts and I found acceleration from standstill is sharp.

The 2020 seven-seater model, on sale now, has exterior design changes which include a new grille and lower front bumper. The air intakes have a fresh look and new alloy

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MOTORING

FACTS AT A GLANCE

Model: Volvo XC90 AWD R-Design Automatic Basic Price: £66,645 on the road Engine: T8 Twin Engine petrol plug-in hybrid Performance: 0-62mph in 5.8 seconds and on to a top speed of 140 mph CO2 emissions: 52g/km Combined fuel consumption: 90.7-113mpg (WLTP)

wheel designs have been introduced. Integrated roof rails have been added and dual integrated exhaust tailpipes are standard.

GADGETS GALORE As with all Volvos, there is a range of fantastic gadgets which I enjoy discovering. There is a new feature which is particularly useful for me when I forget which car I’m driving, let alone where I’ve parked. You can flash the lights and sound the horn to help you find your car! Brilliant.

City Safety warns of and helps avoid many common accident risks and provides protection if a collision does happen. Other equipment includes a Sensus nine-inch multimedia touchscreen with voice-activated control, navigation system and access to the Volvo On Call connected services platform. As standard there are LED headlights, a rear parking camera, keyless entry and start and, when your arms are loaded with bags, a very useful power-operated tailgate.

november 2019

Safety has always been a top priority for the Swedish manufacturer and in another innovative move, Volvo has announced that from 2020 all new cars will have the top speed limited to 112mph. This is a major step when currently on this model the top speed is 140mph.

FUEL EFFICIENT The XC90 will be the first to offer Volvo’s new ‘mild’ hybrid engine, powered by a 2.0-litre, 235hp diesel B5 engine with a 48 volt battery. Volvo says that this engine is more efficient than a petrol. The system improves fuel economy – by up to 15 per cent in real-world driving – and produces lower NOx emissions than the outgoing D5 it replaces.

The world of motoring is an exciting one which is changing rapidly. From hybrid to electric and in early 2020, Volvo says it will launch its first autonomous driving car. I guess it’s something that I will just have to get used to and may even learn to embrace. I

SHOWROOM

Paul Rigby Volvo Birmingham, Chester Road, Birmingham, B24 0QY. Tel: 0121 382 1222 www.volvocars.com

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YOUNG, GIFTED & BRUMMIE

ABAZZ

SHAYAAM-SMITH We caught up with the triple-jump ace to find out how life in the run up to a home Commonwealth Games is panning out

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YOUNG, GIFTED & BRUMMIE

enerally, the talented sportspeople we interview for these pages have been beavering away at their chosen event since they were still in single figures, so we were surprised by Abazz. She only stepped on to an athletics track as a 15-year-old – a reluctant one at that – so her rise to the top has been rapid.

Now Abazz has been chosen by Team England to receive one of only five Sir John Hanson Young Talent Scholarships designed to help talented young athletes progress in the run up to the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. The scholarship of £10,000 supports the youngsters in their quest to achieve their sporting goals and for Abazz, means she can really focus. There’s a small matter of studying for her degree alongside training, but as one of her heroes, Dina Asher-Smith managed it pretty well, Abazz is using the world champion as inspiration.

G

MUM’S THE WORD Abazz was always active as a child, competing in the likes of Thai boxing, netball and semiprofessional dancing, but aged 14 she gave up sport as is the path of a lot of teenage girls. Abazz’s mum found it hard to watch her daughter do nothing for nine months and one day marched her off to local athletics club Birchfield Harriers.

Abazz recalls: “She told me I had to do something. I really didn’t want to go and I cried!” Abazz stayed in the club’s academy for three months then started jumping with a coach focusing on long jump initially. She says: “Long jump wasn’t my thing!” Triple jump it turns out is Abazz’s thing although there were some physical challenges to overcome. She explains: “Triple jump is difficult. I’m really tall and lacked co-ordination. By the age of 13, I was 5ft 9in and by 15, I was 5ft 11in. I was tall and thin, so strength work was really important.”

The following year, Abazz entered the English Schools championship and came third. In 2017, at the national championships and ranked 15, the aim was to finish in

november 2019

the top eight. She came away with a silver medal. In 2018, Abazz was crowned English schools champion and U20 English champion which is an incredible feat in such a short space of time.

JUGGLING TIME Now studying geography at University College London (UCL), Abazz is juggling a lot. Training six days a week – sometimes twice a day – with recovery on Sunday, she’s putting in the same hours as a full-time job in addition to her studies. Training in Uxbridge means a one-and-a-half-hour journey just to get there. Sometimes she gets home at 9.30pm for recovery and stretching. It’s a different university experience to most under graduates and she says can be a bit lonely at times, but she’s totally committed to making it.

UCL has been super-supportive.

As an athlete scholar, Abazz enjoys free gym membership, access to physiotherapists, a nutritionist and psychologist. There are just 18 athlete scholars at the university each with a personalised sports coordinator which helps a lot. The £10,000 Sir John Hanson Scholarship from Team England at least means she doesn’t have to work on top of that which was Abazz’s reality last year meaning that recovery time suffered.

SKY’S THE LIMIT Last year there were some niggling injuries, but she’s back on form. It’s the second year with her new coach and they have an ‘honest relationship’ that’s working well. Immediate goals include improving placing at the senior national championships, competing more abroad on the international circuit and putting less pressure on individual competitions.

Long term, the sky’s the limit. Competing at a home games in Birmingham at the stadium Abazz trained in for four years would mean a lot. She says: “To look around Alexander Stadium and see my whole family there would be incredible.” I

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MOVIE ROLE

CLASS ACT Entertainer and magician Stephen Mulhern treated Birmingham pupils to a performance masterclass. Stephen visited St Catherine of Siena Catholic Primary School to celebrate the launch of Virgin Media’s Christmas Stars competition which is giving UK primary schools the chance to have their festive play televised to the nation.

Stephen said: “I want to see schools across Birmingham enter. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime

Former Joseph Chamberlain Sixth Form College studentturned Hollywood filmmaker Tayyib Mahmood returned to his roots to promote the British Film Institute Academy. The programme, run with Midland Arts Centre, gives young people the opportunity to make a short film under guidance from industry practitioners. As British Film Institute Academy alumni, Tayyib now works at Pinewood studios on the front line of production on films including Steven Spielberg’s Ready Player One and the new James Bond film, No Time To Die.

SCHOOL REPORT

opportunity and I’ll be coming to narrate the winner’s play in a very special performance!”

More details at virginmedia.com/christmas

EARLY YEARS BOOST More than 50 guests attended an opening ceremony following the extensive refurbishment of HallfieldFirst – Hallfield School’s day nursery. They included Sheila Sherlock, the school’s long-serving early years governor, as well as the first-ever HallfieldFirst pupil Georgia-Lee Rowledge who joined in 2006. Sheila and Georgia planted a tree to mark the occasion before guests were treated to a tour of the building.

HEAD MAKES HISTORY King Edward’s School has appointed the first female chief master in its 466-year history. Dr Katy Ricks joins the school after serving as head of Sevenoaks School for 16 years. Dr Ricks, who spent three years teaching English at King Edward’s in the early part of her career, has also worked at several other leading independent schools. She said: “King Edward’s ethos – scholarly, clever, witty, hard-working, creative – has always stayed with me.”

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GROWING PLACES

TENNIS GIRLS ACE IT Bromsgrove School’s U16 Girls’ Cup tennis team triumphed in a thrilling fiveset match over a tough King’s High, Warwick team to qualify for the regional finals of the Aegon Tennis Championships. The team of Josie Ward, Izzy O’Connor, Kelly Lin and Grace Richardson have put Bromsgrove in the top three tennis schools in the West Midlands. Regional finals will be held at Tipton indoor tennis centre this month.

OLYMPIC DREAM Olympic gymnast Kristian Thomas and captain of the GB Paralympic celebral palsy football team, Jack Rutter visited Winterfold School as part of a Sports for Schools initiative. Children from reception to Year 8 took part in exercise circuits, followed by an inspirational assembly for the whole school. Kristian, who competed in two consecutive Olympics, gave pupils a jaw-dropping gymnastics demonstration and encouraged them to “dream big and work hard”.

WHAT A PERFORMANCE! Moreton Hall students are celebrating after achieving 100 per cent distinctions in national examinations for performing arts. The latest results mark a successful year for students at Moreton with Megan Keaveny, Eliza Pickering, Romilly Pickering, Ella Lewis and Nancy Schoelles earning top marks in the prestigious LAMDA qualification. Drama teacher Michael Jenkins said: “I am immensely proud of each of the students for this remarkable achievement and look forward to them building upon these successes in the future.”

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CLOSE WITHÁ

SHAZIA MIRZA Riding the 50 bus from the Maypole, appearing in hit TV shows and touring the world… the comedian and writer has done it all, but still has plenty of ambitions – including appearing in a Bond film! © IDIL SUKAN

BEEN THERE, DONE THAT Where to begin! The Jonathan Ross Show, Loose Women, the Late Late Show, Top Gear, the Graham Norton Show, Celebrity the Island – Bear Grylls. The Kardashians Made Me Do It has been a sell-out success in the UK, US, Sweden, Ireland and Paris and completed three sell-out runs at London’s Soho Theatre with the tour being extended for six months. I have toured all over the world and also met the Queen three times!

IT’S WHAT I DO My role is to make people laugh, to convey my thoughts, opinions and feelings about whatever I like. Mainly I talk about things I feel strongly about, that anger me, confuse me or irritate me. I have to feel something about what I’m saying otherwise I can’t say it and make it funny. The attitude is more important than the material. You make anything funny if you have a great attitude behind the material.

WHAT I’D LIKE TO SEE? I always have ambition. I feel that I need to be doing things, changing things, be aware of things, learn new things and put a stop to other things. I always want my comedy to develop and I want to write better and better jokes about things that you probably can’t joke about in real life. I would like to work with Quentin Tarantino and Larry David, would like a Netflix Special and do some movies, get my sitcom made and write loads more stuff. Also I’d like to be in a Bond film.

BIGGEST SUCCESS Doing a UK tour with nine points on my licence! I had to drive from venue to venue, the slowest I’ve ever driven in my

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life because this was my last chance before getting banged up.

Every time I saw a camera I’d be driving at 10mph. I’m sure other drivers thought I was drunk because the only people who drive that slowly are drunk people or my mum.

BIGGEST LESSON LEARNED Never listen to anyone. They are all wrong. What do they know anyway? In your work, always say what you want to say.

Don’t be dictated to by the audience, critics, your friends or colleagues. Everyone will try and sway you, thinking they know what you need to say, but only you know what you need to say and, if you don’t, then you need to take some time away and find out who you really are.

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT BRUM The people. Get on a bus – the number 50 – and listen to people’s conversations. I can get hours of material from a ride just from the Maypole to the city centre. Once I heard one woman tell her friend how she was planning on ‘getting rid’ of her husband to get her hands on his life insurance. Everyone on the top deck heard it but they went all British and pretended to read their papers. I thought it was hilarious and wrote it down straight away.

DOWNTIME? I travel a lot and always explore wherever I am. If there is water, I swim in it. I can swim for hours – it’s the only place where no one can get you… I Shazia brings her brand new show to Coventry's Warwick Arts Centre on 17 November. Keep up to date with all things Shazia at www.shazia-mirza.com

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ing livBUSINESS

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GLEE CLUB

TWENTY-FIVE YEARS AFTER LAUNCHING IN BRUM, MARK TUGHAN’S CHAIN OF GLEE CLUBS IS THE UNDISPUTED HOME OF STAND-UP… AND MORE aking people laugh for 25 years sounds like a business we’d all love to be in.

And for sure, running the Glee Club has had plenty of highs for founder and CEO, Mark Tughan. But it’s also had some tough times.

Pardon the pun, but comedy can be a funny business.

Mark set up Glee Club in Birmingham after taking “the massive gamble” to quit his city of London investment banking job to strike out as an entrepreneur with a mission to deliver stand-up comedy to ‘the regions’. As a ‘massive fan’ of the Comedy Store, he believed there was a gap in the market for transferring the blueprint outside the capital.

M

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He says he was warned by plenty of people that the comedy club format just wouldn’t work in places like Birmingham. “I thought that thinking was a myth,” he recalls. And as Glee celebrates its 25th birthday, Mark was proved right.

RIGHT PLACE, RIGHT TIME Birmingham Glee opened in 1994, with Cardiff following in 2001, Oxford and Nottingham in 2010 and Glasgow in February this year. (A sixth Glee Club is on the cards before too long in an as-yet undefined location.) The dates prove the progression in the business has been steady and carefully planned. As Mark says there are no prizes

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BUSINESS FEATURE

Over the years, Glee has widened its brief to be as inclusive as possible of all genres of comedy and added live music to the mix. It has also played a growing role in comedy and music festivals in Birmingham and at its other venues.

Mark likes to describe the history of the business as ‘The Four Epochs of the Glee’. “The first was the pioneer years and learning on the job,” he explains. “The business was far from an instant success. It took years for Birmingham to get going.” The second epoch Mark labels ‘The Jongleurs Years’ when fierce competition from the rival chain drove him to “sit round for 10 years and think ‘that’s it!’” When Jongleurs collapsed in 2009, Mark picked up their clubs in Nottingham and Oxford.

PUTTING THE ‘E' IN GLEE: Club owner Mark Tughan, centre right, celebrates 25 years of making Birmingham laugh with a comedy cast including Guz Khan, left

for going at it with all guns blazing, only to be firing a load of blanks.

“There is no doubt about it, there was a bit of luck involved in the Glee’s success along the way,” he adds.

“We were definitely in the right place at the right time – in the late 90s the comedy circuit had really come about and developed, and today there now seems to be an incredible appetite to see comics live.”

FAMOUS NAMES Since becoming the UK’s first dedicated comedy club outside of London, Glee has hosted acts including Jack Whitehall, Jack Dee, Jimmy Carr, Katherine Ryan and Sarah Millican. Comedians who cut their teeth at Glee include Peter Kay and Lee Mack. The Birmingham venue has also played an invaluable role in supporting Midlands comics such as Joe Lycett and Guz Khan.

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SKY BATTLE Epoch three involved six years of litigation with Rupert Murdoch over Sky’s hugely successful Glee TV show.

“The final fourth epoch was when we won the litigation and we opened the Glee Club in Glasgow this year,” said Mark. “It all feels a bit like the tortoise and the hare – it has ‘only’ taken 25 years to become the leading brand in the medium-size comedy market!” Mark is always on the look-out to keep Glee fresh, which is why he is involved with Birmingham Comedy Festival and its Breaking Talent Award and why he travels around the country and buys a ticket to see ‘some hot comedian I’ve been tipped off about’. And if there’s any rough, undiscovered comedian out there in the general public, Glee also gives them a shot at its Friday night ‘open mic’ slot. “We have a six-month waiting list,” said Mark.

GLEE FOR LIFE, MATE He added: “I don’t know where the 25 years have gone. I’m just delighted I have made so many people laugh over the years, and hopefully, in my small way, made a contribution to both the local entertainment scene as well as the live comedy and music businesses.”

We’ll leave the last word on Glee to Guz Khan who said: “Just two years ago, Joe Lycett and the gang at the Glee Club in Birmingham invited me in to perform at a comedy club for the first time. I have now learned that I was lucky enough to start at the very best comedy club in the land. All other comedy clubs can suck their mums as far as I’m concerned. Glee Club Brum Town for life mate!” I

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From only ÂŁ25

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BUSINESS

DESTINATION VIENNA Birmingham Airport has welcomed in the new year early with the announcement that Austrian Airlines will become the hub’s newest airline when it begins direct scheduled services to the Austrian capital of Vienna from 1 January. Austrian Airlines is part of the Lufthansa Group, which forms part of the wider Star Alliance group, joining six Star Alliance airlines already operating from the airport, including Lufthansa, Air India, Brussels

BUSINESS

CLEAN KILO 2 OPENS

Airlines, SAS, SWISS and Turkish Airlines

Plastic-free supermarket Clean Kilo has opened a second shop at Mary Vale Road, Bournville. Clean Kilo, established by Jeanette Wong and her scientist partner Tom Pell (pictured), was Birmingham’s first plastic-free store when it opened last year. After conducting a Facebook poll they realised there was demand for another store, this time in south Birmingham. Jeanette said: “We are excited to make the Clean Kilo 2 store a reality and bring plastic-free shopping to another area of the city.”

NEWS CHARITIES JOIN FORCES The League of Friends for John Taylor Hospice has joined forces with

NEW PARTNERSHIP A new partnership to support businesses in forming social responsibility plans has been launched by two Birmingham companies. Law firm mfg Solicitors and business consultancy Oaks, both based in the Jewellery Quarter, have teamed up to work with businesses

november 2019

the hospice to jointly fund-raise for patient care and raise awareness of hospice services locally. The hospice and League of Friends, previously separate charities, are coming together to ensure a more coordinated approach. Hospice CEO

across the region in the sport, education,

Penny Venables, pictured with

public and third sectors. Experts from both

League chair Sue Jones, said: “With

firms will work with socially-minded

John Taylor needing to fund-raise on

businesses to explore their income generation

a much larger scale it makes sense

potential – helping them to form new

for the League of Friends to join our

charitable vehicles and partnerships.

hospice team.”

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BUSINESS

CRICKET CLUB OPENING Warwickshire County Cricket Club is looking for a new club and board chairman following the announcement that current chairman Norman Gascoigne is to retire.

AUCTION PROMOTIONS

Following election to the committee in 2004, Norman, pictured, spent time as chairman of the membership and marketing committee and as a member of the masterplan steering group, being appointed as vice-chairman in

Bond Wolfe Auctions, one of the UK’s fastest growing

2008. He was appointed chairman in 2010 and oversaw

property auctions group, has promoted two staff to senior

the club’s major £32million redevelopment of the South

positions after nine months of successful operations. The

Stand, which opened in 2011.

company has offered 490 lots at four auctions since launching in January, raising £55million in sales. Two staff who have played major roles are auctions manager Perm

LUCY’S RIDING HIGH

Daley, now promoted to associate director, and newly-

Solihull’s Touchwood centre marketing manager

married assistant auctions manager Aimee Scott (nee

Lucy Burnett raised more than £6,000 for

Rossiter), who has become auctions manager.

Birmingham-based Cure Leukaemia in an epic 300mile cycle ride. The challenge saw Lucy pedal from London to Paris in aid of the charity. She joined forces with more than 80 other cyclists over the four-day adventure. Lucy said: “I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who supported me by making a donation.”

GARDEN BLOSSOMS

BMAG CORPORATE SCHEMES

More than 80 people raised £950 at the

opening of a sensory garden in Kidderminster, helped by Thursfields Solicitors. The Midlands law firm was sponsor of the garden party, featuring live music, barbecue and local drinks Picture: Jas Sansi

to mark the launch of the Simply Limitless Sensory Garden. Volunteers – including staff from Thursfields and Lloyds Bank – have helped transform a patch of rubble and brambles into the special garden facility for those with dementia or mental health issues at Simply

PRESTIGE SERVICE

Limitless Wellbeing Centre, Puxton Lane.

Birmingham Museums has launched corporate patrons’ schemes, giving businesses the chance to support the charity and align their brand with the city’s culture, heritage and world-class collection. Starting from £500, the programme offers opportunities to engage with Birmingham Museums’ 1.2million annual visitors across nine museums and historic properties. Organisations can choose to become a corporate member, patron or partner, and enjoy benefits, including behind-thescenes experiences and hospitality and networking opportunities.

Midlands law firm Lodders has launched a new prestige private property service. Town and Country Homes service delivers legal services and advice for purchasers and sellers of high-end prestige homes and properties.

Lodders’ real estate partner Caroline Nemecek, pictured, said: “The market for legal property services has changed considerably in the last five years and we have identified a real need for a highly personalised, bespoke service for owners and buyers of high-value prestige properties.”

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BUSINESS

BUSINESS BITES ARCHITECT DEAL

HOMELESS HELP

Tweedale has become part of MDG Architects in a move that will allow the practice to expand its operation nationally and in the Midlands area. Tweedale has particular expertise in education, healthcare, office and commercial architecture, as well as industrial and distribution.

A Birmingham-based homeless shelter has become the first recipient of LoveBrum’s Community Impact Fund, receiving £15,000 to help continue its work with the city’s rough sleepers. Tabor House, Digbeth, which has welcomed 58 people since opening two years ago, will use the money to employ a volunteer co-ordinator that will help bring another 30 people off the streets and get them back on their feet.

TONIC FOR GIN DUO A new brand of craft gin created by two Midland entrepreneurs is launching exclusively in Selfridges Birmingham, thanks to a chance remark made at a women’s business event. Sally Davis, who is behind the Midlands North42 brand with chef Joanna Betts, told the audience that a goal was for Selfridges to stock their gin. Store general manager Sam Watts was in the audience and was so compelled by the

STUART’S ON THE BALL

North42 story she decided to support them.

A Solihull lawyer has launched a sports management company that allows family members and trusted advisers to act as bona fide agents for sporting protéges. S2 Sports Management (S²SM) provides an ‘umbrella service’ to individuals who would like to assume the role of agent – but without tying the advisor, or the sports star they represent, into onerous contracts. The agency is the brainchild of Stuart Southall, pictured centre, from Balsall Common through his commercial law firm, Southall Hathaway & Co LLP.

AIRPORT ON TOP

Birmingham Airport has won a top industry award for the fifth time in six years.

Birmingham claimed the UK Travel Agents Star UK Airport award, fending off competition from Bristol, London City Airport, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Stansted and Manchester.

SWITCHED ON

A new electrical wholesaler has created more than 30 jobs across the West Midlands, with its latest Black Country outlet opening after a deal arranged by Bulleys. The commercial property specialist helped Central Electrical Distributors move into Unit C at Key Industrial Park on Fernside Road, Willenhall.

SOLD ON LUXURY Leading property specialist Centrick has launched a new specialist division dedicated to the luxury homes market.

Signature Collection builds on the organisation’s existing residential sales, lettings and management services with a focus on exceptional homes across the West Midlands and Warwickshire. Led by chairman James Ackrill and director Jane Morcom, Signature Collection offers benefits from virtual tours and brochure creation, through to showcase events and marketing targeted specifically for the individual listing.

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LAUGHING ALL THE WAY TO 25 YEARS

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Glee Club celebrates anniversary with stars, friends and regulars

4

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he Glee Club, Hurst Street celebrated its 25th anniversary in star-studded style. Acclaimed comedian Sara Pascoe and star and creator of the BBC’s Man Like Mobeen, Guz Khan, headed up a special birthday line-up that included Shooting Stars’s Angelos Epithemiou, Canadian Mike Wilmot and regular compere Andy Robinson from Oldbury, who has been performing at the club for more than 20 years. Friends of the Glee and regular guests were invited to the club to mark the celebrations. I

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9

1 Laura Davis, Matt Gregor, Harriet Park-Davies, Alex Hill 2 Jemima Cox, Kate Glaze 3 Hannah and Stuart Haynes. 4 Duncan and Fiona Burns. 5 Neelam Ara, Faisal Aslam. 6 David Parkinson, Jonathan Noone. 7 Claire Tooke, Elin Dowsettn. 8 Matt Beck, Laura Still. 9 Esther Cheung, Brian Smith.

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PRESS CLUB HOSTS NEW BOOK LAUNCH 2

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Telegraph People charts heyday of big-city evening newspapers irmingham Press Club hosted a reception at Bank Restaurant to mark the launch of vicepresident John Lamb’s book, Telegraph People. The book, published by Takahe Publishing, reveals the dramas – and fun – behind the print production of multi-edition, big-city evening newspapers in their pre-digital heyday. A former Fleet Street journalist, John started his career as a copy boy at the Coventry Evening Telegraph. He is now director of press and PR at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce. I

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1 Brian Doogan, John Lamb, Hazel Horton-Peppercorn. 2 Alan Carruthers, Claire Pinder-Smith. 3 Paul Raymer, John Lamb, Sue Green, Fred Bromwich. 4 John Lamb with his daughter, Joanne Perry. 5 Peter Brookes, Adrian Kibbler. 6 Llewela Bailey, Harriet Giles. 7 Anita SharmaJames, Chris Hopkins, Claire Pinder-Smith. 8 Christopher Mowbray, Jon Griffin, Phil Brown.

november 2019

Photography: Andrew Kibbler

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‘RUM DO’ AS COCKTAIL GUESTS GET CREATIVE

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Taste of Caribbean as EDGE Creative hosts successful evening at Jam House

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DGE Creative was joined by sponsors KLO Financial Services and Life Ensure for an evening of tasting cocktails, making new connections and having fun at the Jam House. More than 90 guests were treated to a drinks selection supplied by Diago, who crafted Spiced Mojitos and Cuba Libres. A business card draw competition closed the evening with a three-course meal for two at the Jam House for the winner. I

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1 Chris Wallsgrove, Eleanor Jordan, Phil Brown, Kenneth McDonald. 2 Dimitri Theofanou, Ed Butler, Martin Hall. 3 Katherine Rose, Katherine East, Jon Paul Casati. 4 Carmel Givling, Donna Galt. 5 Christina Polychronakis, Joyce Bennell. 6 Iwan Thomas, Paul Hooper-Keeley, Louise Panayides.

7 Mark Panayides, Stuart Mosley, Peter Komolafe. 8 Terry Michael, Michael Bragg. 9 EKieron Hawkes, Craig Povey, Gareth Wood, Jon Chance.

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MAGIC OF ROALD DAHL CHEERS HOSPITAL KIDS 2

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Felicity Dahl and Joanna Lumley unveil stunning stained glass project irmingham Children’s Hospital Charity teamed up with Sir Quentin Blake, the world-famous children’s illustrator, and Felicity Dahl to bring the magic of Roald Dahl’s most iconic characters permanently to the hospital for patients, visitors and staff to enjoy. Sir Quentin has donated his instantly-recognisable designs to the hospital to be created in a stained-glass window installation – the first-time his work has ever been produced in stained-glass. The original illustration was unveiled at a special event attended by Felicity Dahl and close friend, actress Joanna Lumley and other guests. I

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To bring the world-first display to life, Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity needs to raise £234,000. The installation will be housed in Waterfall House, the new home of the world-class Children’s Cancer Centre and the UK’s first Rare Diseases Centre for children.

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1 Michael Kuo, Jonnie Turpie, Owen Dutton. 2 Helen Green, Elizabeth Griffiths, Louise McCathie. 3 Joanna Lumley, Doug Wright, Felicity Dahl, Sarah-Jane Marsh. 4 Rob Nagra, Paul Faulkner. 5 Elisa Howe, Linda Marston-Weston. 6 John Desmond, Lynn Brookes, David Willetts.

7 Karmjit Singh, Kam Reehal, Mandy Dhaliwal, Jas Singh. 8 Steve Hewlett, Felicity Dahl.

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PROPERTY LEADERS SET TO GO GLOBAL

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Godwin Group hosts event to boost West Midlands’ investment claims

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enior property professionals gathered at Godwin Group’s Birmingham office for Midlands UK’s first pre-MIPIM event. A Midlands UK delegation of leading figures from the private and public sectors will attend MIPIM 2020, the world’s biggest property event in Cannes to showcase the region’s investment opportunities.

Speeches were given by Neil Rami, CEO of the West Midlands Growth Company, and Stuart Pratt, co-founder and group development director of Godwin Group. I

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1 Simon Hall, Stuart Pratt, Stephen Pratt, Neil Rami. 2 David Hardman, Karen Evans, Tony O'Toole. 3 Anthony Hodge, Sian Roberts, Laura Smith.

4 Rich Fielding, Neil Harvey. 5 Stuart Pratt, Sonia Mann. 6 Tom Clift, Paul Thomas, Matt Potts, Neil Walker. 7 David Farrow, Zo Hoida.

8 Jane Morcom, Nicki Gibberson, Belinda Morgan, Karina Connolly.

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BIG WELCOME FOR HOTEL’S NEW BOSS 2

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Drinks reception and dinner greets Hyatt Regency general manager IP guests turned out to welcome the new general manager of Hyatt Regency Birmingham, Mohammad Labban. A drinks reception was followed by a five-course dinner prepared by head chef Liam Crotty in the hotel’s signature restaurant, Aria. Originally, from Beirut, Lebanon, Mohammad – whose wife Sam studied at the University of Birmingham – has spent 22 years leading some of the most luxurious Hyatt hotels in Asia. Most recently he opened the Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla Resort on the Red Sea coast of Jordan. I

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1 Joanne Barrows, Elaine Weir. 2 Sheila Kelly-Trow, Liam Crotty. 3 Sam Labban, Lady Mayoress, Lord Mayor and Mohammad Labban.

4 Richard Vickery, Sam Watts. 5 Gary Newborn, Anita Champeneri. 6 Kelly Haslehurst, Nick Byng, Donna Cunningham. 7 Michael Heaven, Jemma Crowther, Sam Labban.

november 2019

Photography by Jas Sansi

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WHAT: Peter Pan WHEN: 20 November to 19 January WHERE: Birmingham Rep, tel: 0121 245 2024 www.birmingham-rep.co.uk Following last year’s acclaimed re-telling of the Wizard of Oz, director Liam Steel brings the classic Peter Pan story into the 21st century. This new Birmingham-set version will make you fall in love with the family favourite all over again.

WHAT: Art & Antiques for Everyone Winter Fair WHEN: 28 November to 1 December WHERE: NEC, www.antiquesforeveryone.co.uk The largest and most established vetted art, interiors and antiques fair outside of London bringing together more than 200 specialist art and antique dealers. There’s a huge array of beautiful, unusual and rare objects for every budget.

WHAT: Shakespears Sister – Ride Again WHEN: 19 November WHAT: A Museum in Baghdad WHEN: Now until 25 January WHERE: Royal Shakespeare Theatre, tel: 01789 403493 www.rsc.org.uk Hannah Khalil’s important and timely play is a story of treasured history, desperate choices and the remarkable Gertrude Bell. Featuring RSC associate Emma Fielding and Rendah Heywood making her RSC debut.

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WHERE: Symphony Hall, box office: 0121 345 0600 www.thsh.co.uk Twenty-six years after they originally disbanded Siobhan and Marcy have reunited with a new album, including new tracks and classic hits from the duo’s back catalogue. They’re also touring and in Brum this month.

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WHAT’S ON

WHAT: Unfortunate: The Untold Story of Ursula the Sea Witch WHEN: 16 to 22 December WHERE: Birmingham Hippodrome, Patrick Studio www.birminghamhippodrome.com Disney villain. Octo-woman.

Plus-size icon. But who is the woman behind the tentacles? It’s time to take the plunge as Fat Rascal Theatre reveals what really happened under the sea in a tell-all tale of sex, sorcery and suckers.

WHAT: Christina Aguilera WHEN: 14 November WHERE: Resorts World Arena, tel: 0844 338 8000 www.theticketfactory.com The X Tour brings the multiplatinum singer-songwriter to the UK for her first tour in 13 years.

Diminutive in stature, this vocal powerhouse is renowned for her unbelievable stage act.

WHAT: Jan de Beer’s Renaissance Altarpieces WHEN: Now until 19 January WHERE: Barber Institute of Fine Arts, www.barber.org.uk Famous for his stylish and elegant paintings, Antwerp’s Jan de Beer created some spectacular pieces and this major exhibition seeks to reinforce his reputation, not just as one of the Low Countries’ greatest painters but as one of the most talented European artists of the Renaissance.

WHAT: Alexander Armstrong WHEN: 18 November WHERE: Alexandra Theatre, tel: 0844 8713011 www.atgtickets.com/birmingham A brand new and ‘deliciously irreverent’ account of a career that has taken Alexander from Armstrong & Miller to presenting, documentary-making, singing and – ultimately – his rightful place as the Voice of Toilet Duck.

WHAT: Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story

WHAT: JQ Christmas Lights

WHEN: 7 to 9 November

WHEN: 15 November

WHERE: Belgrade Theatre, tel: 024 7655 3055

WHERE: Jewellery Quarter,

www.belgrade.co.uk

www.jewelleryquarter.net

The world’s most successful rock ’n’ roll musical comes to Coventry as the Belgrade continues to celebrate its 30th anniversary this year by reliving some of the songs that defined a generation.

Free live entertainment, spectacular fireworks, delicious street food and hot mulled wine will be on tap when the Lord Mayor of Birmingham officially turns on the festive street lights as the Jewellery Quarter Business Improvement District hosts this cracking annual event.

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WHAT’S ON

WHAT: A Choral Christmas with Hugh Dennis WHEN: 18 to 20 December WHERE: Symphony Hall, tel: 0121 780 3333 www.cbso.co.uk/whats-on Favourite tunes, traditional carols and the whole family gathered together for a very special celebration. With the full City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra on show and presenter Hugh Dennis wrapping it all up with humorous readings, this is proper festive pleasure.

WHAT: Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market WHEN: 7 November to 23 December WHERE: Victoria Square and New Street With more than 120 stalls, there is something for everyone at the largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany or Austria.

WHAT: The National Pet Show WHEN: 2 and 3 November WHERE: NEC Birmingham,

WHAT: Great British Model Railway Show

www.thenationalpetshow.com

WHEN: 9 and 10 November

The ultimate day out for animal lovers of all ages as dogs, cats and a whole menagerie return to Birmingham. There will be fascinating talks from experts, interactive demonstrations and jaw-dropping animal displays.

WHERE: British Motor Museum, tel: 01926 641188 www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk A brand new, family-friendly show featuring more than 30 top-quality railway layouts in a variety of scales, eras and sizes.

Includes modelling demonstrations showcasing skills such as making realistic trees and structures and loads of trade stands to satisfy every enthusiast’s budget and taste.

WHAT: T.Rextasy – The Acoustic Show WHEN: 28 November WHERE: Albany Theatre, tel: 024 7699 8964 www.albanytheatre.co.uk/trextasy Transport yourself back to the 70s with an intimate evening featuring a range of classic Marc Bolan songs in a brand new acoustic show from the only tribute endorsed and approved by Bolan’s family and estate.

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WHAT: Dido WHEN: 28 November WHERE: Arena Birmingham, tel: 0844 338 8000 www.theticketfactory.com Following the release of her first album in five years, the ageless singer-songwriter is launching her new tour here in Birmingham (sensible lady) marking her first return to touring in 15 years.

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WHAT: Tokio Myers WHEN: 24 November WHERE: Birmingham O2 Institute, www.academymusicgroup.com/o2institute birmingham Tokio Myers isn’t a person who is terribly bothered by convention. The multi-talented pianist, composer and producer, who stormed to victory on Britain’s Got Talent earlier this year, brings classical and contemporary elements together with stunning results.

WHAT: The Nutcracker WHEN: 22 November to 14 December WHERE: Birmingham Royal Ballet at Birmingham Hippodrome, www.brb.org.uk There’s no better way to embrace the festive season than with this stunning ballet that delights young and old alike.

WHAT: Dining in the Dark WHEN: 21 November WHERE: Maribel, tel: 0121 633 4944 www.maribelrestaurant.co.uk The Brindleyplace-based restaurant has teamed up with national charity Sense to host this exclusive event – the first event of its kind in the city – as guests are blindfolded and taken on a culinary adventure that will help highlight the day-to-day difficulties facing people with sight loss.

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WHAT: Frank Skinner – Showbiz WHEN: 8 November WHERE: Town Hall, box office: 0121 345 0600 www.thsh.co.uk Provocative, remorseless and very, very funny. An unmissable opportunity to see the comic legend perform his brand new stand-up show in an intimate space.

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IN THE CITY WITH SUE CRESSMAN OF NAILCOTE HALL TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF I am co-proprietor of Nailcote Hall Hotel, a four-star country house hotel with 49 bedrooms, picturesque views, a championship Par 3 golf course, leisure club and fine dining restaurant. Last month I released my first solo single named Survive for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I have survived breast cancer twice and I hope this song will inspire and give hope and encouragement to people who are fighting breast cancer or any type of life-threatening problem.

HOW DO YOU GET INTO TOWN? When I come into the city centre to meet clients, it’s usually by train from Solihull. It’s a pretty good service straight into Moor Street or Snow Hill stations.

INSPIRING:

Breast cancer survivor

Sue Cressman hopes her

new single Survive will help other sufferers

IS BRUM A GOOD PLACE TO WORK IN? The city and the region as a whole are full of people who want to support one another. There are several really good networking groups for business people – I believe that introduction and word of mouth recommendations from people you trust is a great way to conduct business.

COFFEE BREAK? I enjoy meeting clients at Caffe Concerto in Grand Central Station – the coffee is lovely and the cakes are delicious!

LUNCHTIME? I tend to eat on the go, but if in the city with friends or clients I like to go somewhere unusual. I recently visited Chaophraya Thai restaurant near the Bullring, which I can recommend.

POWERWALKING? The music video for Survive was filmed at Nailcote Hall on our beautiful Cromwell Course which is a wonderful walk. In the city itself, I like to walk in the area around St Philip’s Cathedral.

WHERE’S YOUR FAVOURITE PART OF THE CITY? I can often be seen in the Bullring or market looking around the stalls for fabric for my hobby of dressmaking. My favourite stores are Fancy Silks and Barry’s Fabrics. I also love the wonderful shopping areas in the city – Grand Central shops, the Mailbox and of course the Bullring. These are all great meeting points for my friends to enjoy whenever we have a girlie shopping trip.

AFTERWORK DRINK? Although I am a hotelier, I am completely teetotal, so I am happy with a glass of still mineral water or, if I am being extravagant, a mocktail in Harvey Nichols bar and brasserie.

Sue’s new single, Survive, can be downloaded at

https://tinyurl.com/y55xfoum

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HOW CAN THE CITY BE MADE BETTER? I wish the road systems were more user-friendly.

Only a couple of days ago I attempted to visit the city in my car to get to BBC Radio WM. I was completely confused by a one-way diversion, so much so that I had to park my car on a meter and jump in a taxi due to the lateness the traffic had caused me. After this experience, I am definitely going to keep to using the train! I

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