April 2019 - My Solihull Central

g n i n n i w d r a w a The

APRIL/MAY 2019

MAGAZINE MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL

g n i n e k a w A i ng

Spr

THE COST OF FASHION Practical tips to be more sustainable

HEALTH

TIPS

Discover some of the spices that heal!

Win prizes from • Birmingham Botnaical Gardens • Midlands Arts Centre • Hippodrome

Local reader, Olivia Wainwright tells us in her own words about joining the fight for a greener future.

LOCAL BUSINESS DIRECTORY INSIDE

See page

30

40,000

FREE PRIZE DRAW

4CLIMATE

Over local readers

Reader survey

SCHOOL STRIKE

FOOD • APRIL EVENTS • HOME & GARDEN SOLIHULL CENTRAL, / MAY 2019 1 & DRINK •MYLIFESTYLE

THE MY MAGAZINES

we can

GR OW help you

• We are delivered free to 160,000 local readers.

• We deliver to more homes than any other magazine in the region.

• We put editorial on every double page spread to ensure your advert gets noticed.

• We keep our costs competitive, and our quality high.

• We have amazing testimonialsMY for generating for APRIL advertisers.

SOLIHULLbusiness CENTRAL, / MAY 2019 • We offer a FREE no-obligation ad design critique service.

2

Contact us today to find out more!

0121 689 0432 07914 145 638 info@swanpublishing.org www.swanpublishing.org

April Half Term

Season Highlights

You Choose!

Sat 13 Apr| From £9 Ages 2-7

Lou Sanders: Shame Pig Sat 13 Apr | £12

Shylock Wed 8 May | From £11

Revealed: A Menologues Production Fri 19 Apr | From £7

WNO: Don Pasquale Sat 8 Jun | From £17

The Boy And The Mermaid Mon 15 Apr | £8 | Ages 5+

WiFi Wars Thu 18 Apr | From £10 Ages 7+

Danni Nicholls Fri 26 Apr | £13

Ashley Blaker & Imran Yusuf: Prophet Sharing Thu 20 Jun | From £12

macbirmingham.co.uk 0121 446 3232

Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham, B12 9QH David Baddiel’s Registered company no. 718349 / Registered charity no 528979 ANiMALCOLM THE MUSICAL Sat 20 & Sun 21 Apr From £13.50 | Ages 5+ MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, APRIL / MAY 2019

3

Introduce yourself?

Want your business to meet the neighbourhood?

Your ad should be here!

Visit swanpublishing.org or call 0121 689 0432

Summer Bargains Coming Soon!

www.amblesidelandscapes.co.uk

S

TICKET

£1

www.birminghamhospice.org.uk/springraffle

4

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, APRIL / MAY 2019

APRIL / MAY 2019

Contents COVER STORY

HIGH SCHOOL ACTIVIST: OLIVIA WAINWRIGHT

20/21

COMMUNITY ACTIVITY WORD ON THE STREET

9

CREATIVE CORNER

29

LEISURE & RETAIL SUSTAINABLE FASHION PRACTICAL TIPS

22

WHAT’S ON GUIDE

12/13

HOME & GARDEN PLANT A TREE

24

COOL IDEAS FOR YOUR SPARE ROOM

26/27

LEAGAL & FINANCIAL WOULD YOU TRUST A ROBOT TO WRITE YOUR WILL?

16/17

EDUCATION TUTOR LISTING PAGE

14

HEALTH SPICES THE CURE

14

FOOD & DRINK WHERE TO EAT

28

RECIPE PAGE

10

LOCAL BUSINESS DIRECTORY ON PG

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, APRIL / MAY 2019

30 5

EGG-CELLENT

S E I T I V I T C A R E T S A E

Eggmerse yourself in our Easter Sunday egg hunt. Then, come and join us for a whole host of wonderful activities* this Easter week.

21st - 26th April 2019 11am - 3pm *Some activities will incur a small charge **When you sign up between 21 - 26 April 2019

For more information or to purchase general admission tickets, please visit: birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk

18

months ip rsh membe for the

price

of 12

**

Find us on:

Your support keeps the Gardens growing AN EDUCATIONAL CHARITY

6

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, APRIL / MAY 2019

We’ve been busy! In our determination to make this magazine every bit as woven into the fabric of our society as each person in it, we have made some exciting changes.

Don’t blame us for wanting to be more beautiful and popular, it’s been instilled in us through trashy American sitcoms for decades and it’s too late to turn back now!

So take note of our makeover and updated style.

Take a peek through our competitions and prize draws. And take us up on our invitation into the spotlight! We are officially celebrating local authors, artists, and poets every issue in this absolute cornucopia of neighbourhood delights.

We want to know what you think of the magazine and to reward you for telling us we have some amazing prizes from the Hippodrome, Birmingham Botanical Gardens and Midland Arts Centre. See page 22.

Happy reading,

Ruby, Amy and Julie

www.swanpublishing.org @TheMYMagazines @SwanPub

If you have an idea for a future article please let us know by emailing

EDITOR’S WELCOME

Hello Neighbours!

info@swanpublishing.org

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, APRIL / MAY 2019

Amy Watson

Managing Director

amywatson@swanpublishing.org

0121 689 0432

Ruby Prosser

Designer & Editor

rubywatson@swanpublishing.org

0121 689 0432

Julie Wilkins Advertising

juliewilkins@swanpublishing.org

07914 145 638

7

07815 460786 01827 892952

Hand Problems Be Your Own Hand Detective

Do you feel symptoms of pain, clicking, numbness or tingling in your hands?

Have you noticed any signs of hand lumps, swellings, or muscle wasting?

If you answered yes to any of the above, you may be suffering from a hand condition and should seek medical attention.

Common Hand Conditions Carpal Tunnel – Common symptoms include tingling and numbness in the thumb, index and middle finger, with occasional thumb muscle wasting.

Trigger Finger – Signs of finger locking and clicking are seen - the finger may flick up from a bent position.

Dupuytren’s Contracture - A thickening of skin in the palm and fingers are experienced, along with a fixed bending of the fingers meaning hands cannot be placed comfortably flat on a table.

Arthritis of the Thumb – Signs include a general dull ache around the thumb base, which may mean sufferers struggle to open tight jars. The thumb position may change.

If you detect any signs or symptoms of a hand condition, let the Midland Hand Clinic help you to reach the correct diagnosis and receive the right treatment!

8

Midland Hand Clinic lead by Mr G Shyamalan FRCS NHS consultant hand surgeon.

All patients welcome whether you have private medical insurance or you are self-paying.

Ask us about our self funding prices for minor hand surgery.

Hand Clinic PA: Pam Dziubany Email: pdziubany@hotmail.com Call: 07815 460786 - 01827 892952 www.midlandhandclinic.com

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, APRIL / MAY 2019

25/02/2019 09:55

WORD ON THE

STREET BUNGALOW SCHEME IN SOLIHULL’S GREEN BELT THROWN OUT Solihull’s planners, in late March, found themselves in the highly unusual position of having to vote again on a scheme they had previously awarded planning permission.

TWO MONTHS OF ROADWORKS AROUND NEC

MILD WINTER LEAVES GRITTING WAREHOUSE IN SURPLUS

Get ready for some serious delays around Solihull in the coming weeks.

Gritting crews in Solihull went out to treat the roads 20 times over the winter - which was less than half the number of runs completed the year before.

Far milder conditions meant that the lorries based at the council’s Moat Lane depot were called into action much less frequently.

By contrast in 2017/18, particularly ferocious weather meant that gritters were dispatched 53 times in total.

The amount of salt used over the past few months was also well down on last year - 1,010 tonnes, compared with 2,765 in the previous year.

Solihull Council has revealed details of major roadworks planned on the southbound A452 Kenilworth Road.

The main part of the work will be between the Stonebridge and Hampton Lane roundabouts, which will be closed.

It’s not far from the NEC and Resorts World Birmingham and is likely to cause major delays.

Diversions will be put in place via the A45 and B4102 Hampton Lane.

Back in 2017, councillors had approved plans for a four bedroom bungalow to the rear of 27 Lowbrook Lane.

But the decision was later quashed by the High Court, where a judge found that the council had failed to take the harm to the green belt into account.

Having reconsidered the evidence, in light of the judicial review, Solihull planning officers this time recommended that the application, in the village of Tidbury Green, be thrown out. newslocker.com

Works began in mid March. It is thought the roadworks will continue for eight weeks, causing a headache for commuters right through to the middle of May.

coventrytelegraph.net

TO FEATURE A LOCAL INTEREST STORY ON

coventrytelegraph.net

THIS PAGE CONTACT

info@swanpublishing.org

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, APRIL / MAY 2019

9

INGREDIENTS Fresh bread roll Spicy Halloumi Red onion Tomato Lettuce Mint yoghurt

METHOD Slice Halloumi into thick wedges and fry with a drop of olive oil until golden.

Cut the bun in half and fry the insides for a couple of minutes.

Slice the red onion and tomato into thick wedges and stack up your burger with a lettuce leaf.

Top off with a dollop of mint yoghurt.

HALLOUMI & MINT BURGER

Do you have something to shout about?

Something to tell the local community?

We want to be for the community, by the community, so we’re looking for local people have something to share about our special corner of the world.

So if you’re that guy in all the neighbourhood watch groups with a big mouth, or that girl who’s always pinning cool stuff to the noticeboards, this is perfect for you!

We like to publish stories about important changes that are going on in the community, changes that should be going on, things that make us unique, and things that will make people smile. There’s plenty of death and despair on the news, we like to keep things positive.

All articles go through a proofing process, and we do not guarantee your piece will be published. Articles must be between 200 - 400 words, and include your name and neighbourhood.

10

If you are interested, send your articles to info@swanpublishing.org

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, APRIL / MAY 2019

STEAMED UP DOUBLE GLAZING? Don’t Replace The Frames... Just The Panes!

Cloudy2Clear Are A ...

Which?

Trusted Trader

All Glazing Backed By Our

25 YEAR

GUARANTEE Priority Freephone

0800 61 21118 www.cloudy2clear.com

Broken Or Damaged Windows? Faulty Locks, Handles, Hinges?

MOPHEADS DOMESTIC CLEANING & IRONING

SPRING CLEANS AVAILABLE NOW Regular cleans.

Removal cleans.

Builders cleans. or just the in-laws are coming cleans.

Washing collected ironed & returned.

Service washes.

Dry cleaning.

Simple alterations.

Curtain cleaning service.

We will take your curtains down, get them dry cleaned and put them back up.

HOUSE CHECKING SERVICE AVAILABLE Tel:-0121 605 2322

LOCAL COMPANY - NOT A FRANCHISE www.mopheads.co.uk - mail@mopheads.biz

170 Yardley Rd. Acocks Green.

Birmingham. B27 6LR

SOLAR PANELS Last issue we ran an article advising buyers of the potential pitfalls of buying a house with solar panels on the roof. Whilst there were no inaccuracies, we would like to add to the story that solar panels can provide reduced energy costs and a lower carbon footprint for the homeowner. Our article highlighted the issues which can arise when the roof space is leased to a third party. These issues do not apply if the panels have been bought outright.

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, APRIL / MAY 2019

11

LEISURE & RETAIL

What’s on APRIL / MAY 2019

Seasonal Events

Markets & Fairs

Solihull Farmers’ Market Fresh locally grown produce Where: Solihull High Street When: First Friday every month Info: solihullfarmersmarket.org

Fine & Local Food Fayre Locally sourced food and produce from top quality suppliers.

Where: Solihull High Street When: Third Saturday every month Info: solihull.gov.uk/events Bentley Heath Country Market A cross between a farmers’ market and a craft fair all under one roof.

Where: Bentley Heath Hall When: Every Fri 9.30am - 11.30am Info: facebook.com

Festive Fine & Local Fayre Christmas version of this market.

Where: Solihull High Street When: 15 Dec Info: solihull.gov.uk/events

Classes

Vicki Gorman Weekly Art Classes for all abilities.

Where: The Core Courtyard Gallery When: Thursdays Info: vicki_kilgour@yahoo.co.uk

12

Hogarths Easter Sunday Easter is a great time to gather together friends and family and enjoy the very best foods and wines, so why not celebrate at Hogarths with an indulgent three course meal.

Where: Hogarths Hotel When: 21 Apr Info: hogarths.co.uk Easter Egg Hunt The Easter bunny has hidden clues around the park - crack the password and win a chocolate egg! You may even spot the Easter bunny as he hops around the park. Entrance is £2 per child. Punch and Judy shows, face painting and other entertainment are also available.

Where: Elmdon Park When: 19 Apr Info: solihull.gov.uk

Build A Scarecrow!

Get the family together to design and build a scarecrow at this popular family event. There are prizes for the top three scarecrows. Pre-booking is essential - contact 0121 704 8000 for your copy of the equipment list and to book your place.

Where: Knowle Park When: 25 Apr Info: solihull.gov.uk

Music A 90’s Night Tribute to Westlife and Boyzone A musical evening that is tailor made to satisfy all of your Irish boyband cravings. Feel the nostalgia as the group (featuring performers direct from the West End) perform all of the greatest hits and execute all of those iconic dance routines.

Where: Hogarths Hotel When: 7 Jun Info: hogarths.co.uk

The Beatles Revolution The Beatles Revolution are a “copy conform” to the original Beatles, using original 60’s VOX amplifiers, original guitars etc. and also costumes as worn by the Fab4 all these years ago.

Where: Hogarths Hotel When: 12 Apr Info: hogarths.co.uk

Whitney: Queen of the night A stunning celebration of the music and life of one of the greatest singers of our time. This award winning production features a sensational line-up of musicians and artistes, and together with a breath-taking performance in the spirit of Whitney, deliver a show that exceeds expectation on every level.

Where: Core Theatre, Solihull When: 25 May Info: thecoretheatresolihull

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, APRIL / MAY 2019

LEISURE & RETAIL in and gs to do in th f o t o gh A snapsh OLIHULL throu S d aroun May April and

For The Kids

Get Crafty in the Wild Off you go to get arty in the wild! they’ll be making massive stick pictures and getting muddy with a special mud paint recipe. Suitable for children aged 2+ Where: The Parkridge Centre When: 16 Apr Info: solihull.gov.uk

Dizzy Duck Race Pick a duck and wish it luck as it races along the river. There are prizes for the first three to reach the finish line. This event is popular with visitors of all ages Where: The Parkridge Centre When: 17 Apr Info: solihull.gov.uk

Teeny Tiny Den Building Why should den building be just for the older kids?! Head out with Warwickshire Wildlife Trust and help us make dens for teddies and maybe even a toddler or two.

Suitable for children aged 2-5. Entrance costs £3.50 per child. For more information visit enquiries@ wkwt.org.uk or to book tickets go to www.wkwt.org.uk/whats-on.

Where: The Parkridge Centre When: 23 Apr Info: solihull.gov.uk

Fashion Show

Solihull Style Weekender Discover Solihull’s fashion secrets at Solihull BID’s fashion event, celebrating what’s available in the town’s retail and beauty outlets.

Personal consultations with hair and beauty experts can be booked online, and ITV newsreader Sameena Ali-Khan will be styled as she interviews various retailers.

Where: Mell Square When: 27 Apr Info: solihull.gov.uk

Theatre

Tell us what YOU think of the MY Magazine to enter our prize draw!

Win tickets to Midlands Arts Centre!

A Midsummer Nights Dream 5-6 July Oddsocks Productions presents another high-energy, feel-good, family theatre show. This summer the company invite you to join them for a festival of music, magic and mayhem as they bring that Shakespearean favourite “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”, to life as you have never seen it before.

Win free annual membership to Birmingham Botanical Gardens!

Swan Lake by Ballet Theatre UK Ballet theatre UK have a fantastic following offering exquisite small scale ballet shows in local venues at a fraction of the price of the big city venues where audiences are often seats a very long way from the action. An ideal introduction to new or younger ballet fans - once seen you will become a fan! Join Ballet Theatre UK with one of the most enchanting love stories of all time Swan Lake.

Where: The Core Theatre When: 31 May Info: thecoretheatresolihull

Win tickets to the Hippodrome!

A thrilling portrait of army life telling the stories of men and women serving on the front line. Choreographer Rosie Kay joined the 4th Battalion The Rifles, participating in full battle exercises and visiting the National Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre. What came of these observations was the award-winning, five-star work 5 Soldiers.

Enter via our Facebook page or our website swanpublishing.org

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, APRIL / MAY 2019

13

Local Private Tutors Helen Mills

Flute & Intensive Grade 5 Theory BMus; GBSM Hons; ABSM Over 30 years flute teaching experience. All abilities, ages and levels taught. Excellent results record.

ALSO Aural Training Member of ISM Blenheim Road, Moseley Tel: 0121 449 2135

Sarah Nation

Maths & English tuition Key Stages 1 & 2 (age 5-11) Highly experienced local tutor, qualified primary school teacher.

DBS checked.

Tel: 0121 446 6468 sarah.nation@btinternet.com

Sharon Wall

Clarinet Teacher GBSM (Hons) ARCM ABSM PGCE Highly experienced teacher with excellent success rates from beginner to diploma level.

Contact Sharon on new number: 0121 493 8793 sharonmcwall@gmail.com sharonwall.com

Hazel Buller BSc

Guitar Tutor All ages, abilities and levels taught. Lessons provided in your own home or Solihull.

Special rates for JLR emloyees.

DBS Certified. hazelbuller.co.uk Tel: 07847 557 765

ting Your Lis e could b

here

and l tutor a loca etails re a u d o u If y like yo se email: would re plea ing.org e h d printe ublish

swanp

info@

SPICES THAT HEAL Once upon a time, imparting wisdom on the healing properties of plants was a dangerous business, you ran the risk of being labeled a witch. So let’s all appreciate the sacrifices of those who practiced natural remedies and discovered some of these simple solutions to common ailments.

GARLIC

BASIL

NUTMEG

CINNAMON

ROSEMARY

THYME

CLOVES

CUMIN

TURMERIC

Combats colds Fights type 2 diabetes Eases a cough Can help prevent cancer

14

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, APRIL / MAY 2019

Reduces cholesterol

GINGER

Calms nausea

Lowers blood pressure

Improves memory

Helps arthritis pain

Curbs inflamation

••

• •• •

•

Win Prizes!

All this communication is starting to feel very one-sided! We want to know what you think. Please complete our very short survey to enter into our prize draw by 10 May.

•• •

•

••

•

• •

• Enjoy amazing prizes from some of Birmingham’s most loved entertainment venues!

Tickets to see 10 Soldiers,

Tickets to see A Midsummer

Nights Dream 5-6 July

visit our

Facebook

or visit our

www.swanpublishing.org

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, APRIL / MAY 2019

•

•

•

21 May

• • • To Enter

•

•••

Free annual membership!

•

• • •••

• ••

• Website • • 15

LEGAL & FINANCIAL

Would You Trust a Robot to Write Your Will?

More than seven out of ten people would not want their Will to be drafted using artificial intelligence (AI). This is according to our latest survey, in a context where artificial intelligence is sweeping through the law and other professions.

The British public gave a cautious welcome to other types of technology. For example, 52% of respondents said they would like to have a digital Will, accessible online. At present, the law of England and Wales requires a Will to be in hard copy and strict formalities must be followed in relation to the Will’s execution.

However, fewer than 5% of respondents thought that it should be possible to make a Will using text message. This is despite a recent Australian case where an unsent text message was accepted as a valid Will. Creating a Will by email was more popular, with 48% of respondents saying it should be possible.

16

Fraud was a concern in relation to Wills made online and nearly 60% of respondents said they would be more concerned about fraud with a digital Will.

With most of the law relating to Wills dating back to Victorian era and the Wills Act 1837, the Law Commission is currently reviewing whether the formalities should be relaxed and has acknowledged a need for modernisation, which should take account of the changes in society, technology and medical understanding that have taken place since the Victorian era.

Following a consultation launched in 2017, the Law Commission is currently preparing a report as well

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, APRIL / MAY 2019

LEGAL & FINANCIAL

WWW.VWV.COM as some recommendations for Parliament.

When it comes to administering the estates of people who have died, more than half of those who had acted as an executor or administrator said they found the process of swearing the oath old-fashioned. With more than 95% of respondents agreeing, there was a great deal of support for the idea that it should be possible to apply for a grant online, something that has been possible since last year.

In short, what the survey shows is that whilst technology has its place, individuals are understandably anxious about ensuring that their Wills are drafted, and estates administered, by human beings.

accordance with legal principles to be valid and to avoid it being challenged after death. It is therefore sensible to seek legal advice when preparing your Will, including advice on effective tax planning.

Would you like to speak to an experienced solicitor about making or updating your Will?

Contact Rachael Armstrong, at award-winning law firm VWV, at rarmstrong@vwv. co.uk or on 0121 227 3726.

Despite the advance of digital technology, a Will must be prepared in strict

Need Legal Advice?

We offer a personal service to meet your needs: • Buying or selling a house • Estate administration • Family, divorce & children

• Lasting powers of attorney • Personal injury • Wills & inheritance tax

Contact Rachael Armstrong at rarmstrong@vwv.co.uk or on 0121 227 3726.

vwv.co.uk

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, APRIL / MAY 2019

17

THIS ISSUE’S LOCAL READS THE LOST SOUL ADELE MORRIS

Enjoy this issue’s round up of recent releases from local authors...

Adele Morris, a pseudonym for Katryn Hannock, was born in Glasgow and grew up in the northern suburbs of Australia, The Lost Soul is her first novel.

Are you a local author? Send us a 100 word summary and cover image to be included here.

Black eyes. Seeing eyes. Death eyes. As keeper of the dead Sondra Carstairs can see, hear and feel the souls that no longer walk among the living. But as an eighteen year old Sondra ran from everything that it meant to be keeper, including Anona island, the home of generations of keepers. Twenty-two years since Sondra ran from being a keeper, she recieves an appeal from a lost soul which forces her to return and face the darkness of Anona.

info@swanpublishing.org

£10.99 Paperback £14.99 Hard back

VENGEANCE IS MINE JANE MAXWELL A brutal killer is on the loose targeting young men across three continents. The plot thickens when a body is found in a game reserve, a teenage boy with a shady background arrives on the scene, and a fashionable housewife struggles with her wealthy meaningless life.

South African Police Captain, Solomon Nduli, is given the task of piecing together the scattered evidence to find the murderer. This gripping thriller starts out in a cheap Bangkok hotel and reaches its dramatic conclusion in South Africa. £7.00 Paperback £5.50 Kindle Edition

JUST ANOTHER AFRICAN ADVENTURE JANE MAXWELL

CRASH J.M.HULME

Just Another African Adventure is a love story set in Zimbabwe about how a woman deals with her husband’s alcoholism.

Set against the background of wartorn Rhodesia in the 70s this is the story of how one woman survived extreme adversity with courage and love against all odds. £7.99 Paperback £4.99 Kindle Edition

18

On a wet Monday morning a thoughtless driver unwittingly causes an accident involving several vehicles. He drives away oblivious to the carnage he has left behind but his actions have been recorded on camera. After the accident people are forced to take stock, resulting in radical changes to their lives. For some the changes are positive, for others tragic.

Tension builds as one person takes their own life and another stands trial for murder. £7.99 Paperback £5.99 Kindle Edition

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, APRIL / MAY 2019

ARE YOU MISSING OUT ON A LASTING POWER OF ATTORNEY REFUND? Solicitors for the Elderly (SFE) member Sophie Fenn of The Wilkes Partnership in Solihull is urging Solihull residents to check eligibility for an LPA refund after almost two million people were overcharged by the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) between 2013 and 2017. Claimants can expect to receive a refund of up to £54, with any accrued interested since the registration was made.

So far, only 200,000 of the 1.8million people owed have claimed their refund, meaning that there’s £77million still owed to customers.

To apply for a refund visit: http://gov. uk/power-of-attorney-refund. The exact amount will depend on when the registration was made, and claims must be made by 1st February 2021.

An LPA is an important document that gives a loved one the power to make decisions on your behalf when you can no longer do so. There are two types of LPA: a health and welfare LPA, and a property and financial affairs LPA. Recent research from SFE found that there are only 7% of LPAs in place across the UK, meaning that millions of people are currently unprepared for later life. SFE urges anyone planning for their future to consider setting up an LPA and seek advice from a specialist lawyer.

Lakshmi Turner, Chief Executive of SFE, said: “Whilst it’s comforting to know that people are making provisions by putting in place LPAs, millions of families, many of whom may have been going through a tough time with elderly relatives, will have been needlessly overcharged.

“It’s good to see the OPG addressing the error, and with the deadline for applications approaching, we’re urging people to check their eligibility for a refund soon.”

Sophie Fenn said: “It takes about ten minutes to claim online. You’ll need the donor’s bank details and a copy of the LPA, if you have it. If you need help or more information about making a claim, there’s a Refunds Helpline you can contact, either via telephone on 0300 456 0300 or email poarefunds@justice.gsi.gov.uk.”

credited lawyer near you go to: www.sfe.legal If you would like more information about LPAs please contact Sophie Fenn at The Wilkes Partnership sfenn@wilkes.co.uk

The Wilkes Partnership LLP Stanton House 54 Stratford Rd Shirley, Solihull B90 3LS

0121 733 8000 www.wilkes.co.uk

If you need assistance, speak to your local SFE lawyer. To find an SFE ac

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, APRIL / MAY 2019

19

School Strike4Climate

By Olivia Wainwright

My name is Olivia and I am 14 years old. I am full of hope, having just got back from my second School Strike4Climate. Just hours ago I was stood outside Birmingham’s Council House shoulder to shoulder with more than 1000 children to protest the lack of government action regarding climate change.

It was amazing to see so many students striking, inspired by Greta Thunberg, the 16-year old school girl who ended years of inaction six months ago when she said that she wouldn’t go to school on Fridays until the Swedish government met its climate obligations. The movement has grown massively since then as thousands of students joined her in responding to scientists’ warning that we only have 12 years left to stop the worst effects of climate change.

This news should have pushed climate change to the top of

20

governments’ agenda, but they just kept on with business as usual. So now it is up to the younger generations to make them do something about it.

This is a state of emergency and it’s time to act.

I first decided I had to so something when I realised that despite papers being full of stories about record temperatures and melting ice-caps - the government response has been silence. Then I read about students striking in Sweden, Belgium and Australia and realised I had to do something here in Birmingham.

My opportunity came when my grandfather told me that the school strikes were finally coming to the UK. I knew I had to be involved.

I arranged a meeting with my headmistress and convinced her to give me an authorised absence.

Five days later I found myself outside the Council House with 30 other children from schools across Birmingham and Solihull. >>

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, APRIL / MAY 2019

I had headed to Victoria Square with my friend Harvey via Friends of the Earth Birmingham where I met with an amazing lady called Libby who gave me advice about how to make the day as effective as possible (how to talk to councillors and get the strike recognised on social media). Her advice was invaluable, because as soon as we got to the Council House we were met with reporters from BBC Midlands Today and Free Radio Birmingham.

Having been filmed, and having our pictures taken we went in to speak with the Councillors. The British strike has several demands, including lowering the voting age to 16, but we have also come up with specific requests for Birmingham City Council.

First and foremost, we want them to join cities like Bristol and Manchester and declare a climate emergency. This would mean finding ways to be Carbon Neutral by 2030 and calling on the government to take the issue seriously.

Secondly we want them to think about how schools deal with climate change - recycling should be compulsory, global warming should be a key part of the curriculum and public transport to be cheaper and more easily accessible.

These may seem like small steps, but if each city takes climate change seriously, the government will have to follow through.

The next strikes are 12th April and 10th May. We hope even more children will take part, and those who can’t please write to your councillor and ask them to support the motion being put forward in April for Birmingham to declare a climate emergency.

To get involved follow: #fridays4future and #schoolstrike4change on Facebook Twitter and Instagram

21

FASHION

The Cost Of Fashion

This issue Dawn Marriott takes a look at the fashion industry’s unfortunate pitfalls metric tonnes of coal are used to produce new fibres as well as dyeing and bleaching fabrics. And then there’s the damage that chemical water is causing to families who live on the River Citarum in Indonesia where polluted water from garment factories is pumped daily making it the world’s most polluted river.

People are talking about sustainable fashion for the first time out loud. On TV, in magazines and on every social media platform, everyone is talking about the impact the fashion industry is having on the planet.

In the recent Stacey Dooley documentary- Fashion’s dirty Secret, the real truth about the fashion industry’s impact on the environment and humanity was unveiled – all driven by our apparent hunger for fast fashion. We were shown a place in Kazakhstan where the increased growth of cotton to supply the industry’s demand, has resulted in the disappearance of the Aral Sea. The waterways that once ran to the sea have been blocked and rerouted in a bid to water the ever growing cotton plants. A whole community changed and landscape evaporated for our increasing thirst for fast fashion.

It takes 1800 litres of water to grow enough cotton for 1 pair of jeans and in total around 8 trillion litres of water are used each year to grow and produce enough fabric and fibres to support the fashion Industries. Additionally 132m

22

It’s not just 100 billion new garments that are produced each year that are having an impact on the environment – unwanted clothes are becoming one of the world’s biggest landfill problems.

Each year an average person throws away around 80 pounds of clothes. In America alone 12.8 million tonnes of textile are disposed of annually.

It’s not just our desire to buy new that’s driving this force, the retailers are encouraging our shopping patterns. High street retailers launch on average 62 new ranges each year – with each new products they launch a new campaign – all enticing us to buy now!

But how can you make a change? The good news is that it doesn’t have to be big; every little really will make a difference.

Buy better – really think about what you are buying and chose longevity over buying a statement piece that will only be worn once. Livia Firth co-founder and creative director of Eco – Age works by the 30 wear rule. If you can’t imagine yourself wearing an item 30 times then don’t buy it.

Investigate brands – be aware of their philosophies. There are lots of retailers really making a difference with their production and sourcing of fabrics.

H & M have their conscious range,

People Tree is one of the UK’s first ethical brands, Madewell, J Crew and Veju are all working hard to ensure their products are made with minimal impact on the environment.

Buy trans-seasonal items – instead of buying a brand new summer wardrobe, invest in key pieces, a good jacket, timeless coat, great jeans and classic dresses – work your wardrobe cross season, buying less and reducing your own footprint.

Donate your unwanted items – don’t throw them away, charity shops or clothes banks are a great place to start.

Or try a clothes swap with friends, a great way of getting new items with zero energy needed to produce your new swaps!

Shop Vintage – this isn’t for everyone but the same rules apply – buy well and consider your purchase, buy quality over quantity to ensure they last longer.

And lastly, repair any item that need attention, a good repair will give more life to your favourite items.

We may not be able to help the Aral sea or stop the chemicals being dumped into the Citarum River, but we can choose to buy less throw away fashion and work the clothes that we already own. The fashion industry has to change but in order to do that we need to change our mindsets and shopping habits.

x Dawn

www.dawnmarriottstylist info@dawnmarriottstylist.com 07725 538 829 Instagram: Dawnmarriott_stylist Facebook: Dawn Marriott Stylist

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, APRIL / MAY 2019

HOME & GARDEN

A wide range of Modern & Traditional Fireplaces

• Gas and electric fires • Over 30 working displays • multi fuel stoves • Smokeless zone stoves • Fireside accessories • Solid wood, marble and stone surrounds • Full installations, servicing, repairs & spares

0121 441 3232

07759 918 816

www.mdservicesfireplaces.co.uk 300 Vicarage Road, kings Heath, Birmingham B14 7NH

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, APRIL / MAY 2019

23

PLANT A TREE If every person in the West Midlands planted a tree we would be making ecological changes to our home nothing short of heroic.

We are getting ill far more often than we used to. We are suffereing from terminal illnesses more than ever. We are eating contaminated food and drinking contaminated water. And all because we have more value for efficiency than our health.

Pollution is reaching record highs, we need to make changes like, yesterday.

But fear not, the saviour of our dire straits has been patiently waiting in the wings for us to come to our senses, we must plant trees!

But how will trees help with the contamination of food and water I hear you ask! Well, trees improve water quality by slowing and filtering rainwater, the water in the ground feeds into our plants and wildlife and the benefits travel up the food chain to us.

And, how will they improve our immune systems to better fight off illnesses?

There’s no complete guarantee that the effects pollution has already had on our bodies can be reversed, but trees can consume the harmful chemicals our bodies can’t cope with and pump out oxygen, giving our children a chance to grow up with strong immune systems.

Two mature trees can provide the oxygen for four people. But if we’re planting new trees they take years to mature.

Get planting!

JH Garden & Property Services • • • • • • • • • • • •

Mowing Weeding Lawn restoration & repair General garden clean up Friendly service Regular maintenance One off jobs + more competitively priced Commercial contracts Hedge trimming Hard & soft landscaping Full public liability insurance For a friendly, honest Quote call NOW

Jon 07928 699 806

24

Dimension

Groundworks & Driveways • Clay & Block Paving • Tarmacing • Patios • Brickwork • Slabbing • Gravel • Landscaping • Fencing • Property Repairs • Roofing Repairs • Driveway Maintenance

T: 0121 733 1463 (Solihull) T: 01926 827 645 (Kenilworth, Warwick, Leamington) T: 01789 270 869 (Stratford) M: 07799 428 557 E: dimensiongroundworks@icloud.com W: www.dimensionpathways.co.uk

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, APRIL / MAY 2019

Easter is here

I know what you’re thinking.

There’s no way it’s Easter, already.

No way. It was only four and a half minutes ago that we were constructing and then completely ignoring our New Year’s Resolution!

How is this possible?

But it is. Easter is around the wintery corner, skipping along with a basket full of chocolate bunnies and the warmth of spring. And spring is the season for fresh starts, new beginnings, gentle reminders to take a moment for yourself.

To step out into the sunshine and breathe deep.

Because the world is constantly rotating, days are constantly busy and sometimes it’s easy to get swept up into the motion of it all. Easter is here to embrace you in its fluffy arms and let you pause for a second. To reflect on the year so far.

Like Lent. If you gave something up, how did it go? Did you manage it? Well done you, if you did! And if not, that’s okay too! These are the opportunities that you can learn from, that you can apply to what you need to do next. And anyway, who wants to give up chocolate for forty days, really? So either way, treat yourself. You deserve it! For a real Easter treat visit Cadbury World and engorge on a Cadbury afternoon tea. Or plan ahead and work off the several dozen bags of mini-eggs you just know you’re going to consume by heading over to Digbeth and having a game of Ghetto Golf.

Written by local reader, Emily Wilcox

& TREEWORKS 01564 820 170 MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, APRIL / MAY 2019

25

SPARE ROOM? It’s wonderful to have a spare room - not have to worry about the logistics of putting guests up in the livingroom or on someone’s bedroom floor - but what about the other 364 day of the year? You could add something to your home that would become a very special place to your family without losing that handy extra bedroom. Here are some exciting ideas for you to consider...

MUSIC STUDIO Whether you just have some instruments knocking around the house without a proper home or you dabble in a little producing, it feels amazing to have a special space dedicated to your creativity. With some decent storage you can very quickly turn the spare room from beat labratory to cosy guest bedroom and back again without any fuss.

To step this idea up a notch you could invest in some proper equipment, a microphone to encourage young blossoming talents, or an amp and electric guitar to reawaken a dormant rockstar.

Keep the balance between creative outlet and tasteful bedroom by framing some lyrics that mean something to you and hanging them up. Mix it up with funky prints to help channel some artist energy. Plants and greenary help our bodies feel peaceful but also re-energised, so they certainly have their place in the home music studio. Just have fun with it! >>

Find Greg the Gnome!

Enter the prize draw

Each issue Greg the Gnome will be hiding in our pages, and it’s up to you to find him for a chance to win in our prize draw. We have exciting things to give away such as tickets to shows, delicious meals and more. Enter by submitting Greg’s location to: info@swanpublishing.org // email subject: I found Greg!

This issue’s prize:

Tickets to The Flying Bath, 23 June @ Midland Arts Centre When everyone has left the house in the morning, the bath toys spring into action and head off on exciting adventures in their magical flying bath! Julia Donaldson and David Roberts’ playful and adventurous story splashes into life in this adaptation featuring catchy songs, quirky bath toys and everyday heroes. Show aimed at ages 2-5.

26

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, APRIL / MAY 2019

HOME OFFICE I’m sure everyone has done their fair share of admin on the kitchen table, or sifting through bills shoved near the front door, and it’s no fun.

As much as you may become accustomed to letters upon letters and a laptop buried somewhere beneath, getting it all organised feels like the weight of the world lifting off your shoulders.

Finally some clarity! You don’t need to be a obsessive to appreciate the beauty of knowing exactly where all of your important documents are. Clear surfaces. Neat shelves. Everything tucked away in its place, and a clear work station ready for when you need to review the rates on your mortagage or do some research for your next holiday, or let the kids do their homework without any distractions.

Pop some motivational quotes up on the wall, the cheesier the better! If they make you smile, then they’re working. A work space doesn’t need to be entirely void of fun, lively up the place with some eccentric art, or a completely useless vase that cannot hold flowers, it makes a statement, and it belongs in the office.

The fininshing touch, arguably, is what kind of chair you choose. Surely, when you spin around in your office to meet the eyes of whoever has shown up in the doorway, you want to feel somewhat similar to a James Bond supervillain? If not then perhaps some things need reevaluating in your life. Executive chairs are exciting. And you deserve one. For your executive things.

Spare room? Make the most of it!

14-16 School Road, Yardley Wood, B14 4BJ

Houses • Gardens • Offices • Sheds • Garages Full and part properties cleared and tidied

0121 663 1565 we also need donations of furniture Please support our charity by calling for collection of furniture, electrical items, bric-a-brac and clothing Betel UK has been helping restore broken lives for over 22 years, help us continue to heal the hurting. furniture@notts.betel.uk • www.betel.uk • reg. charity no. 1081462

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, APRIL / MAY 2019

27

Where to eat

A guide to the best places to eat in and around Solihull

The Agrabad

Balti 884 Old Lode Lane Solihull, B92 8LW Tel: 0121 743 7883

Aroma

The Forest

Pub Food 2 Cranbrook Way, Shirley, B90 4GT Tel: 0121 733 8810

Hotel Restaurant 25 Station Approach Dorridge, B93 8JA Tel: 01564 772 120

Indian 100a Widney Rd Solhull, B93 9BN Tel: 01564 777 613

Hotel Restaurant Four Ashes Rd Dorridge, B93 8QE Tel: 01564 779 988

Hogarths

The Punchbowl

The Beech House

The Malt Shovel

The Red House

Steakhouse 727 Warwick Rd Solihull, B91 3DA Tel: 0121 242 7730

The Farm Inn

Gastro Pub Barston Lane Solihull, B91 3DX Tel: 01675 443 223

Pub Food Mill Lane Lapworth, B94 6HR Tel: 01564 784 564

Pub Food & Carvery Hermitage Rd Solihull, B91 2LP Tel: 0121 711 8856

Met Bar & Kitchen Waters Restaurant

Gastro Pub Farmhouse Way Solihull, B90 4EH Tel: 0121 711 7273

Modern European 680-684 Warwick Rd Solihull, B91 3DX Tel: 0121 659 8062

Fine Dining Floor 1, Resorts World B40 1PU Tel: 0121 273 1238

Fukuoka

Japanese 373 Stratford Rd Shirley, B90 3BW Tel: 0121 439 6262

Orange Tree

Gastro Pub Warwick Rd Solihull, B93 0BN Tel: 01564 785 364

The White Lion

Happy Heart Cafe

Pavarotti

Little Italy

Organic 26 Richmond Rd, Olton, B92 7RP Tel: 0121 706 8674

28

Hillfield Farm Pub

Italian 2 Hobs Moat Rd Solihull, B92 8JN Tel: 0121 743 3222

French & British Hampton-in-Arden Solihull, B92 0AA Tel: 01564 442 833

Italian 156-158 Stratford Rd Solihull, B90 3BD Tel: 0121 293 1987

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, APRIL / MAY 2019

creative corner

GET CREATIVE

Showcasing a photo, painting or drawing & a poem by a talented local reader every issue!

We want to celebrate you. Get your creative juices flowing and enter our competition each issue for the chance to be seen here in all your creative glory. Send your entries to info@swanpublishing.org with your name, a bit about yourself (around 50 words) and a short title for picture entires. If your entry is too personal we can publish it anonymously. We look forward to seeing what this amazing corner of the world has to offer! Photos need to be over 1MB, and poems need to be 25 lines or less.

Ruby Prosser, 28 Hi! I’m the MY Magazines editor, and I wanted to kick off our creative corner with a little something of my own. I drew this inspired by some old rave posters from the 90s. I wanted some to put on my wall and I couldn’t find what I wanted anywhere on the internet, so I created my own.

Tiger lady Anonymous

Listening to lies

Writing poetry is like free therapy for me. I get a chance to look more closely at what I feel, why I feel, why I react in certain ways to certain things. It’s valuable me-time.

I smile, although you won’t believe it, Nobody believes my fake smiles.

But your silly little stories, You weave them into a third person More likely to ignore these.

When you wrote your part, And gave birth to yourself, And agonised in labour, You were so wise to leave out the fear.

If you didn’t write it, it isn’t here.

I spend hours sitting in your palm Pecking at the seeds you want to Plant inside my head And I’ve learnt to not look Too eager to be fed.

I will close this fiction, I promised myself that much.

Perhaps not by my own hand, But I will shake myself awake And you will understand.

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, APRIL / MAY 2019

29

LOCAL BUSINESS DIRECTORY Arts Centre

mac Birmingham

Charity

Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice

3 4

Cleaning & Ironing Mopheads

Events What’s on guide

11 12

Fireplace Showroom MD Services

23

Gardening & Landscaping

Ambleside Landscapes 4 Betel UK

27

25 Central Driveways 31 Dimension Driveways & Landscapes 24 JH Garden & Property Services 24 Resin Drives

32 Betel UK Garden Treeworks

Gardens

6

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Healthcare Services

8

Midland Hand Clinic

Local Tutors Tutor Listing

14

Shutter Doors

Garolla Shutter Doors 6

Solicitor

The Wilkes Partnership 19 Veale Wasbrough Vizards LLP

Windows & Doors

16/17

Cloudy2Clear

11

Would you like to recommend a service you found in the MY MAGAZINE? Or are you a local business who has had some great feedback? If so, get in touch!

You can call us on 0121 689 0432 or email amywatson@swanpublishing.org

Disclaimer - All advertisements delivered by the MY Magazines are published in good faith. We do not accept responsibility for the accuracy of such advertisements, nor is any kind of warrenty endorsment expressed or implied by such publication. We specifically disclaim all and any liability to advertisers, readers and users of any kind, for loss or damage of any nature whatsoever and however arising, whether due to inaccuracy, error, omission or any other cause and whether on the part of the MY Magazines, our agents or any other person.

30

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, APRIL / MAY 2019

SPECIALISTS IN BLOCK PAVING, TARMACING AND LANDSCAPING

Clay or Block Paving • Tarmacing (red or black) • Patios • Brickwork • Slabbing • Gravel • Landscaping • Fencing • Property Repairs • Roofing Repairs • Driveway Maintenance • Facias • Soffits • Guttering (Pressure cleaning & sealing - weed free)

ALL WORK FULLY GUARANTEED

FOR 5 YEARS

No deposits taken - No subcontractors used Check out samples of our work on our website

www.centraldrivewayslimited.com CALL US FOR YOUR FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTE

T: 0121 702 1456 M: 07748 577 687 Email: michael.central@icloud.com 1310 Solihull Parkway, Birmingham Business Park, Solihull, B37 7YB - 75 Station Road Kenilworth CV8 1JD

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, APRIL / MAY 2019

31

Revive your drive with Resin Drives Combine extra parking space with stunning kerb appeal.

Give your outdoor space the ‘wow’ factor with landscaped pathways.

Why Choose Resin?

• Completely porous and puddle free • Hardwearing, durable and weed-adverse • 10 times more environmentally friendly than concrete • Slip resistant, wheelchair friendly and excellent tyre traction

BUY

*

NOW AND PAY

NOTHING UNTIL 2020

Create a unique and stylish patio area.

Why Choose Resindrives.co.uk?

• Highly skilled installation team • No subcontracting • Multiple colour schemes & styles to choose from • Over 10 years experience

For ultimate kerb appeal add a state of the art garage door, maintenance-free composite fencing or a realistic artificial lawn

CALL TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE AND SURVEY

0800 007 5733 32

Approved Materials & Systems Cert No. 18/5476

www.resindrives.co.uk

*Resindrives.co.uk is a trading name of resindrives.co.uk ltd. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN743675) We are a credit broker and not a lender, we offer credit facilities from a panel of lenders. Finance subject to status. Terms and conditions apply.

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, APRIL / MAY 2019