August 2018 - My Knowle & Dorridge

August / September 2018

Over local readers

siness u B l a c o L ! y inside r o t c e r i D e See pag

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Festival season is upon us and we are spoilt to have two exciting ones right here on our very doorstep. We met a few of the characters from behind the scenes at the Middle Earth Festival who help make it happen and bring it to life. And of course not forgetting the annual Moseley Folk Festival which this year headlines The Levellers.

This issue we also bring you a special back to school feature with a helpful list of all the local secondary school open days next term. And we begin the first in a series of foraged food recipe pages. Check out our home and garden pages too, which bring you some exciting and quirky ideas to try out yourself.

And if you are still stuck for something to do, the best in local events are brought together for you in our what’s on guide. Remember, you can sign up for our free weekly ‘Hello Weekend’ guide to local events because there are too many to fit into our pages here.

Happy reading

Ruby & Amy

www.swanpublishing.org @MYSolihull @SwanPub

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

info@swanpublishing.org

EDITOR’S WELCOME

Hello Neighbours,

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

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CONTENTS

AUGUST / SEPTEBER 2018

ss usine e!

B l a Loc ory insid ct Dire e page Se

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COVER STORY Middle Earth Festival: Bringing Tolkien’s World To Life 6/7

COMMUNITY ACTIVITY Word on the street 25

LEISURE & RETAIL White: The summer classic everyone can get right 19 What’s on guide 8/9 Competition to win a luxury hamper 12

HOME & GARDEN Secret Bar 21 Outdoor Living Room 22

LEGAL & FINANCIAL Protecting our personal data 18 Getting divorced: Do we really need a solicitor? 14/15

EDUCATION Local private tutors 10 School Open Days 13

HEALTH 5 Health Benefits Of Running 24

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‘Hello Weekend’ mailer, helping you

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local events!

FOOD & DRINK Where to eat 17

Go to our Facebook page and

Foraged food: Raspberry Recipes 16

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MIDDLE EARTH FESTIVAL

Bringing Tolkien’s World To Life “When you get here, you can see the looks on peoples faces of just sheer enjoyment” - Bob Hawtin,’ The Gaffer’

I

n the midst of a heat wave, sat in the vast yellowing field behind Sarehole Mill, it’s becoming clear just how much work must go into the Middle Earth Festival. Though it reaps all of the benefits of being set in the original inspiration of Tolkien’s Middle Earth, ‘The Gaffer’ Bob Hawtin explains that it also takes a lot of money, support and devotion to bring it to life.

Bob has been the curator of the festival for four years now and acts as the leader of a dedicated group of volunteers who give their time for the sheer love of all things Tolkien. He

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and his team took up the reins of responsibility when it became too much for the Tolkien Society, who continue to lend their support in other ways.

Middle Earth Festival attracts thousands of people each year, sometimes from as far as America, and gets everyone in the spirit of fun with its costume pageant, craft tent, axe throwing and plenty of exciting stalls. It’s not just the volunteers who show their dedication to the festival Bob tells us, “last year it tipped it down!” says Bob, “But saying that people still turned up in their

thousands, I couldn’t believe it”.

Other than the festival, small pockets of unspoilt wilderness and preserved buildings are all that remain from Tolkien’s day and pay homage to our most impressive ex-resident, whose influence has reached across the globe. “This is one thing that’s always frustrated me.” Says Bob “Because this is where Tolkien played as a child, we’ve got something that nobody else has got, and it’s proved that he played here and taunted the millers and everything. We’ve got the site of his childhood… I don’t think this area makes enough of Tolkien”.

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2018

Having never heard stories of Tolkien’s youth and his early involvement in the area we were eager to hear more. Bob explained “Along this river there were something like 13 mills in its time, and there were two millers in this one, and a couple in the next one down, and Tolkien and his brother used to go in and taunt them.” he continued “They called this one (at Sarehole Mill) the dark ogre, because they ground all sorts of stuff, and the one further up they nicknamed the white ogre because he would come out with flour and stuff all over him, so that’s where the white and dark ogres comes from”.

Soon we’re joined by a dwarf of Erebor, a Gondorian ranger, an orc and an uruk hai scout (pictured below) who are stopped several times on the short distance to meet us by stunned passers by, they hadn’t expected such an encounter in The Shire, a typically Hobbit inhabited area.

“People have been making costumes for the last year” Bob tells us, and it certainly shows! The attention to detail is incredible, they all look as though they have stepped straight out of the cinema screen and into our world. It becomes such an immersive experience when you are stood face

to face with characters you’ve seen in the movies, anyone who has been knows just how thrilling it is.

The Galactic Knights are the non profit organisation who are responsible for those incredible characters who give the festival something truly magical. The organisation travels all over the country supporting charities and helping them to raise money, and they have found a worthy cause here. Without passionate volunteers we wouldn’t have such a fantastic event to look forward to all year long.

So don’t be shy this year, get on your costumes and get involved!

“We put on a costume show and mini skirmish for the kids, also an orc camp and living fantasy camp - as opposed to a living history camp...”

- Rhys Hennessey / Erebor Dwarf

Middle Earth Festival FREE EVENT

1 - 2 Sep @ Sarehole Mill

Check out The MY Magazine’s Youtube channel to see them in action!

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2018

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LEISURE & RETAIL

What’s on August / September 2018

Markets & Fairs

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

Classes

Vicki Gorman Weekly Art Classes for all abilities.

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

Seasonal Events

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

Early Summer Craft Fair Crafts from home and abroad Where: Solihull High Street When: 30 Jun Info: solihull.gov.uk/events Continental Market Enjoy a range of continental treats, street food stalls galore and craft items.

Where: Mell Square When: 19 Jul Info: Solihull.gov.uk/events

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Fun in the park The annual charity fundraising event returns. Featuring entertainment including a dog show, classic car show, cycling events + more Where: Tudor Grange Park When: 23 Sep Info: Solihull.gov.uk/events

Super Sports Day Getting fit can be fun and this event proves it! With sporting activities galore, including school sports races and much more.

Where: Lavender Hall Park When: 8 Aug Info: solihull.gov.uk Solihull Summer Fest The Solihull Summer Fest returns to Tudor Grange Park. The Summer Fest 2018 line up includes; Sister Sledge, 10cc, Rak-Su, Blue, Alesha Dixon and Roland Gift.

Where: Tudor Grange Park When: 25 - 26 Aug Info: solihull.gov.uk

Friends of Damson Park Dog Show popular fundraising event, where proceeds go towards improving the park. Featuring the much-loved Dogwatch dog show, children’s rides, entertainment and stalls.

Where: Damson Lane Park When: 1 Sep Info: Solihull.gov.uk/events Summer Holiday Who needs the seaside when you can take a holiday in the park?

Come and enjoy some beachthemed entertainment in this celebration of the summer.

Where: Meriden Park When: 15 Aug Info: Solihull.gov.uk/events

For the Kids

Music Mayhem!

Dress up as a pop star for a chance to win the fancy dress competition, take part in a music-themed treasure trail and dance along to your favourite pop hits with the resident DJ at this musical finale of Shirley Parks summer events for children.

Where: Shirley Park When: 22 Aug Info: solihull.gov.uk Den Building Discover how to make your very own shelter in the woods. Will you be able to make it waterproof using just what you find in the woods? Ages 6+ Where: Brueton Park When: 15 Aug Info: Solihull.gov.uk/events

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2018

s to do in g in h t f o ot A snapsh nd KNOWLE & and arou throughout GE DORRID tember p e S / t s Augu

Pirates & Princesses Do you fancy your chances at trying to walk the plank or see yourself in a beautiful castle? If so, come along as we build dens fit for a princess and secret pirate hide outs. Age 4+ £3.50 per child Where: The Parkridge Centre When: 30 Aug Info: solihull.gov.uk

Nature Babies Drop in session for babies and toddlers with messy and sensory play. Suitable for children aged 0-2.

Where: Brueton Park When: 20 Aug Info: wkwt.org.uk

Queen Tribute In 1993 QEII formed to pay tribute to the World’s No.1 band. The arduous task of coordinating lighting, image, clothes, make-up, mannerisms and not least, by any means, the harmonies and music of the greatest band in the world.

Where: Hogarths Hotel When: 14 Sep Info: hogarths.co.uk

Live Music

The Dolly Show Officially Voted UK’s No.1 Dolly Parton Tribute and crowned the U.K’s best Dolly tribute (as voted by the Agent’s Association of Great Britain).

She has sung at the Singapore Grand Prix, Australia Country Music Festival, Monte Carlo Casino and even for Michael Buble’.

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

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

Where: Hogarths Hotel When: 21 Sep Info: solihull.gov.uk Music in the park: Some like it hot Join the George Huxley Hot Five at this year’s finale of our ‘Music in the Park’ series. The band will be performing their tasty brand of Dixieland jazz classics.

Where: Malvern Park When: 12 Aug Info: solihull.gov.uk

LEISURE & RETAIL

Stay in the loop!

New events will keep popping up throughout the next couple of months and details may change, that’s why we send out our weekly ‘Hello Weekend’ email to let you know the very latest info.

• Live music • Live theatre • Charity events • Conservation • Cinema screenings • Art exhibitions • Craft workshops • Courses • Festivals • Special offers • Markets & street food ...All straight to your inbox every week, with links to websites where you can buy tickets / reserve places.

Sign up via our Facebook page

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2018

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LEISURE & RETAIL

School Feature W

ith the summer holidays stretching before us into the distance the new school term seems such a long way off, but it will come round as quick as a flash. And with it will come exciting new opportunities and experiences for children moving up in their schools.

For those going into year 6 there is the prospect of moving to ‘big school’ just around the corner - one of the biggest steps in their young lives.

With the choice between grammar, state and private schools, finding the right one for your child is likely to be a major focus for you this year.

We all want what’s best for our children and what suits one down to the ground may not suit another. It’s not just about results and Ofsted reports, it’s about the feeling you get when walking around the place, the feeling your child gets too. So, to give you a helping hand in making this momentous decision we’ve put together the open day dates of schools in and around the area.

See page 24 for school open days.

Created by Awesomecontent - Freepik.com

Local Private Tutors

Sharon Wall

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

Contact Sharon on 0121 449 4423 sharonmcwall@gmail.com http://sharonwall.com

David Parman

Solihull Maths Revision BA Hons A specialist provider of maths tuition and revision courses. www.solihullmathsrevision.co.uk Tel: 07836 672 187

ting

here

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

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Your Lis e could b

Kerry Spencer

English, History and 11+ (Maths & English) Tutor All abilities, ages and levels taught.

Lessons provided in your own home during the week and weekends.

Brilliant results.

Call or text: 07891 055 220

r and al tuto e a loc details r a u o u If y ail: like yo would re please em g e h .or g d printe blishin

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2018

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EDUCATION

Hallfield school edgbaston An independent co-educational day school from 3 months - 11 years

Happy . Secure Purposeful Tuesday Open. MOrnings Call 454 1496 To 0121 find out more for callmore 0121information 454 1496

www.hallfieldschool.co.uk 0121 454 1496 admissions@hallfieldschool.co.uk Church Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 3SJ

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2018

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EDUCATION

King Edward VI

Camp Hill Schools

Music Departments The Schools provide good resources and a wide range of performing opportunities.

Experienced and enthusiastic teaching leads to excellent results.

An outstanding music education free of charge.

Places for A level music are available.

Vicarage Road, Kings Heath, Birmingham, B14 7QJ King Edward VI Camp Hill School for Boys (0121 444 3188) www.camphillboys.bham.sch.uk King Edward VI Camp Hill School for Girls (0121 444 2150) www.kechg.org.uk

‘Tis the season to throw a garden party!

F

orget the stale sarnies – impress your garden party guests with local delicacies and plump for the ultimate opulent picnic with this full-tobursting hamper and BBQ Meat Pack from Walter Rose & Son. Fancy a summer hamper that’s been tailor-made to your specific foodie requirements? A chock-full basket of bespoke treats from Devizes-based deli and butcher, Walter Rose & Son, is in store for one lucky reader who fancies a spot of luxury alfresco picnicking this season.

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Choose from a cracking range of charcuterie and hams, including sumptuous local offerings like the Wiltshire honey roast ham from Sandridge Farm. Montgomery cheddar and Delice des Cremiers are just a couple of of the drool-inducing cheeses available – perfectly paired with rosemary crackers.

Give our competition a whirl for the chance to have Walter Rose & Son craft you a hamper of gorgeous gastronomic treats worth £100 with a BBQ meat pack thrown in for good measure!

To be in with a chance of winning just answer the following question:

In which English market town is Walter Rose & Son based? walterroseandson.co.uk

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2018

School Open Days John Henry Newman Catholic College

Alderbrook School

www.alderbrook.solihull.sch.uk 17 Sep, 6.30pm - 9.00pm

www.johnhenrynewmancatholiccollege.org.uk Date to be confirmed, see website for details

Arden Academy

www.arden.solihull.sch.uk 27 Sep, 6.00pm - 8.30pm, all welcome, 28 Sep 10.45am 12.00noon, parents / guardians only

Langley School

CTC Kingshurst Academy www.kingshurst.ac.uk 26 Sep, 4.00pm - 6.00pm date to be confirmed, see website for details

Grace Academy

www.langley-sec.solihull.sch.uk 20 Sep, 6.30pm - 8.30pm, 21 Sep, 9.15am - 10.15am

Light Hall School

www.lighthall.co.uk Date to be confirmed, see website for details

www.graceacademy.org.uk Date to be confirmed, see website for details

Lode Heath School

www.lodeheathschool.co.uk 19 Sep, 9.15am - 10.45pm and 6.15pm - 8.30pm

Lyndon School

www.lyndonschool.co.uk 18 Sep, 6.00pm - 8.00pm, 21 & 28 Sep, 9.15am - 10.15am

EDUCATION

Smith’s Wood Sports College

www.smithswood.co.uk 21 Sep, 4.00pm - 6.30pm, 21 Sep, 8.30am - 1.00pm

Solihull School

www.solsch.org.uk 22 Sep, 9.30am - 12.00noon

St Martin’s Girls School www.saintmartins-school.com 15 Sep, 9.30am - 12.00noon

St Peter’s Catholic School www.vle.st-peters.solihull.sch.uk 20 Sep, 5.30pm - 8.00pm, 24 & 25 Sep 9.00am - 12.00noon (open mornings by appointment only)

Tudor Grange Academy

www.solihull.tgacademy.org.uk Date to be confirmed, see website for details

If you’d like to list your school open days on this page in future please contact us on info@swanpublishing.org

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2018

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LEGAL & FINANCIAL

We agree we want to divorce.

Do I really need a solicitor?

On 1 May, the first fully digital divorce application was launched. In an age where we turn to the internet to answer our questions, do you really need a solicitor to get divorced? Is face to face legal advice worth the cost?

Here are five reasons why you might want to consider it.

Speed and Efficiency The legal process can be confusing if you are not familiar with the documents. This can lead to documents being returned by the court if they are not completed properly, which causes delays. More worryingly, there are key parts of the petition that need to be correctly completed to enable the court to make financial orders. Having a solicitor can make the process easy and ensure you are protected.

You may have a pension which you want to share. You may have assets abroad. There may be tax implications if you share assets.

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Avoid Acrimony Separating is always an emotional process and communication between couples is often difficult. This can make sorting out practical matters more stressful. Solicitors are not emotionally involved and can therefore focus on resolving matters quickly.

This will help maintain a better long term relationship, which is particularly key for any children involved.

Future Security It is often thought that if a couple separate amicably and divide their assets, they have no future claims against each other. This is not correct. It is essential that there is a court order documenting the agreement and dismissing all other claims against each other. Without this, you are at risk of further claims (and expensive litigation) in the future if the other party’s circumstances change.

Fairness and Negotiation You may have more assets in your name or be earning more. Most people need some

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2018

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Complex Assets Your financial position is not always as straightforward as you first think. You may run your own business which you want to protect. You may have a pension which you want to share. You may have assets abroad. There may be tax implications if you share assets. All of these things need to be carefully considered to achieve the best outcome for your particular circumstances.

LEGAL & FINANCIAL

advice on what is a fair outcome and how this can be achieved.

At VWV, we can provide as much or as little support as you need. We offer a fixed fee first meeting, including a note of the advice given, tailored to your circumstances. This will often enable you to negotiate directly. We can also help with other dispute resolution options such as mediation. We may then need to have only limited involvement and the costs would reflect this.

Need legal advice from experienced solicitors?

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FOOD & DRINK

RASPBERRY JAM

Foraged food Each issue we are picking recipes that utilise ingriedients that can be foraged locally, and are in keeping with what can be found that season.

INGREDIENTS 750g of raspberries, fresh 1 vanilla pod 500g of granulated sugar 250g of vanilla sugar METHOD

* Forageing Tip There are many local sites for forageing, try pathways alongside rivers, canal towpaths, woods and parks.

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INGREDIENTS 55g caster sugar 125g raspberries 60ml vodka handful mint leaves small pinch of dried chilli flakes 125ml prosecco METHOD

RASPBERRY COCKTAIL

Step 1 Preheat the oven to 140°C Step 2 Place the raspberries in a large

pan and cut the vanilla pod down

the centre. Scrape all of the

seeds into the pan with the raspberries.

Step 3 Cut the pod into small pieces and

add to the pan. Simmer the fruit

and vanilla gently for about 10

minutes. While the fruit is simmer

ing, warm both sugars together in

the oven.

Step 4 Remove the pieces of vanilla

pod from the raspberries and add

the sugar to the fruit in the pan.

Stir until the sugar has dissolved,

then bring to a rolling boil,

boiling hard until setting point has

been reached. Start testing for the

setting point after 4 minutes,

using the cold plate, flake or

thermometer test.

Step 5 As soon as setting point has

been reached, remove the jam

from the heat and allow to sit for

a few minutes. Remove any scum

that has risen to the surface with

a metal spoon, pushing it to one side.

Step 6 Gently stir the jam and pour or

ladle into warm, sterilised jam

jars, filling the jam right up to the

brim. Seal the jars immediately

and label when cool

Step 1 Place sugar and 60ml boiled water

in a cup and stir to dissolve. Then

cover and chill until needed.

Step 2 Whiz half the berries in a food

processor until smooth. Strain,

discarding any solids.

Step 3 Half-fill a cocktail shaker with ice.

Add vodka, torn mint leaves, chilli,

raspberry puree and 2 tbs sugar

syrup. Shake well, then stir in prosecco.

Step 4 Fill glasses with ice, strain over

cocktail and serve with remaining

mint and berries.

HOME & GARDEN LEGAL & FINANCIAL

Where to eat A guide to the best places to eat in and around Solihull, Knowle & Dorridge

The Agrabad

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

Aroma

Hillfield Farm Pub

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

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 KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2018

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Protecting our personal data

B

usinesses have been gearing themselves up to comply with the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) for some time now, but do they realise there are huge employment law implications to this new directive?

Jas Dubb, employment law specialist at The Wilkes Partnership sheds some light on this can of worms that has been causing businesses a major headache for the last year or so with the lead up to the new GDPR rules.

“The penalties for non-compliance has now significantly increased and can carry criminal sanctions in extreme cases”, he warns.

Personal data comes in many forms.

It is likely that employers will hold a lot of personal data about their employees and former employees.

This could include next of kin details, benefit details and bank details. If the employer operates CCTV or monitors emails, internet use or records telephone calls, then this will constitute personal data for the purposes of GDPR.

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Under GDPR employers need to ensure that where data is held it is properly protected. There is a greater emphasis upon security and the control of data within the employer’s possession. Employers should also consider how long they legitimately require to hold employee data and regularly check the accuracy of the data held.

may apply for a job, workers the business may engage from time to time as well as direct employees.

Employees have previously had the right to seek copies of the personal data held via a Subject Access Request. But under GDPR employees also have rights under certain circumstances to erase personal data, to restrict data processing and object to processing of their personal data, amongst others.

The original employer data protection obligations come from the 1998 Data Protection Act following EU regulations. These were related to obtaining, processing and securing personal data. This has now been replaced by the GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018 which came into force on 25 May 2018.

As part of the road to compliance, employers need to have a privacy notice. The notice needs to cover such things as what data it expects to gather, whether or not they ever share this data and if so with whom, amongst other matters. This notice must be provided to all those whose data is held. As such this, in an employment law context, would include prospective candidates who

The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) is the body which oversees this new legislation.

Disgruntled employees can raise their concerns and complaints directly with the ICO.

We provide advice to both employers and employees. For advice on any employment related matter and to discuss our Free Employment Health Check for your business please contact Jas Dubb at The Wilkes Partnership on

0121 233 4333

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2018

WHITE

FASHION

THE SUMMER CLASSIC everyone can get right Life’s too short to be worrying about stains!

To capture the fresh, carefree look of summer it’s time to go back to basics with all white attire. Simple it may be, be plain it most certainly is not. This is an opportunity to emanate light, meanwhile you have the perfect opportunity to get creative with hair, makeup, and accessories. You don’t need to contend with the sun, you can be it.

The fedora, black heels and red lipstick add an element of grunge to this otherwise dainty look, it keeps the balance beautifully.

Yellow shades, hoops and a bumbag make this flouncy dress decidedly 70s but in an adorable, understated way.

British actor, Idris Elba, keeps it classy and sophisticated in a simple cotton shirt and linen trouser combo.

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2018

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HOME & GARDEN

DRIVEWAYS • LANDSCAPING PROPERTY REPAIRS

Why not invest in a new driveway or patio to enhance the appearance and add value to your property?

Approved Drives and Landscapes offer a range of services to help improve all areas of your home, including;

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

T. 0121 702 1456 or 0121 371 0105 M. 07748 577687 michael.central@icloud.com Trinity Park, Concorde House, Solihull, B37 7UQ

Get in touch today for your FREE quotation!

Dimension

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

Fitted Wardrobes & Home Studies Bookcases and Cabinets Bespoke Furniture

01564 782732 www.pmfurniture.co.uk Uplands Farm Chessettts Wood Road Lapworth

Solihull B94 6EP

HARDIMAN

CONSTRUCTION

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

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Established 1987

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2018

Back-lit shelving will give your secret bar an inviting allure, and will be sure to get a big response from everyone who sees it.

How to make your own

Putting some special seating tucked away near your bar will make it feel like a real occasion when you use it.

SECRET

BAR

Your bar sign is a must to finish the look.

In a world where the 9-5, the school run and maintaining your house rule supreme it’s absolutely essential to your sanity that you invite a bit of magic into your home. Something special, unexpected and fun that makes your home feel like a destination, not just four walls and a roof. There are many creative ways to do this, but on this occasion it’s the secret bar. Here are the basic components you need to turn an unassuming cupboard or cabinet into your secret bar...

Locks are a great investment if you want to keep your stock safe!

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I

OUTDOOR LIVING ROOM

f spending more evenings in your garden is on the cards this summer it’s well worth making your outdoor spaces feel more ‘homely’. This may sound counterintuitive but a few basic elements can transform a simple yard into an open-air living space.

Earth Don’t pave over every bit of land you own! While a small paved area is called for in an outdoor living room, the rest of the garden is needed for run-off during the rainy seasons. So bring the greenery right up close and personal, have trees and bushes overhanging, but keep the paving clear for your garden furniture.

Wind To feel the comfort of a living room and the tranquillity of the outdoors there needs to be a loose framework of a structure that gives the impression of a room without trying

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to be one. It shouldn’t be blocking out the natural elements you wish to be closer to. Try not to shut in the space with high walls either, the breeze feels like a godsend on sweltering summer days.

Water The sound of running water has calming effects on us, and immerses us a little more in the outdoors without being invasive. A water feature is a wonderful way to enjoy water through the hot season while we scarcely see a drop of rain.

Fire The natural focal point of social gatherings, fire is the most important element to consider to prolong the life of your outdoor living room late into the night. A big stone fireplace will not only provide a beautiful source of light, but will also radiate heat, maintaining a comfortable temperature as the sun’s heat fades.

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2018

HOME & GARDEN advertorial

Has Your Double Glazing Steamed Up? Established for over a decade Cloudy2Clear windows have become a leading company for glass replacement.

Issues with double glazing can often be gradual and may only be noticed during a clear sunny day or during the winter. A failed glass unit may no longer provide you with the protection you need or be energy efficient. Why not spend a few minutes checking your home to see if you have any failed double glazing?

If you act now you can avoid these problems.

Now, you may think you need to replace

the whole window including the frames and all the hardware, however Cloudy2Clear have come up with a simple and cost saving solution‌ Just replace the glass!!

If you see condensation in your windows just visit our website or give us a call on 0800 61 21 118. We will send out our highly experienced engineers for a free no obligation quote. A Cloudy2Clear quote takes on average no longer than 20 minutes. Once the quote is completed, we will sit down with you and explain the problem and tell you

how we can fix it. With years of experience Cloudy2Clear have a wealth of knowledge and are recognised as a Which Trusted Trader, plus our work is backed by an industry leading 25 year guarantee.

Cloudy2Clear also replace faulty locks handles and hinges on all windows and doors.

Your friendly local Cloudy2Clear specialist is Corbyn Wells and he services Solihull and the surrounding areas.

So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Corbyn a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118.

Cloudy2Clear GUARANTEE All Customers That An Average Quote Will Take No Longer Than 20 MINS!!!

Cloudy2Clear Windows...

Service With A Smile!

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2018

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5 Health benefits of running - Our top 5 pick from the many positive effects running has on the body.

* Overall mental health

The body releases endorphins when you exercise which make you happy.

* Increase strength & bone density

The body sends essential minerals to strengthen bones when they are stressed, so running helps to strengthen ligaments, tendons and bones.

* Stronger immune system

Running helps you to suffer less from minor illnesses.

* Weight loss

You burn 705 - 865 calories / hour

* Lessen effects of asthma Running helps strengthen lungs and bronchi.

Introduce yourself?

Want your business to meet the neighbourhood?

Your ad should be here.

Visit swanpublishing.org or call 0121 689 0432

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MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2018

COMMUNITY ACTIVITY

WORD ON THE STREET Here we bring you the low down of local happenings, all the stuff you need to know. To contribute to next issue’s WORD ON THE STREET page please email info@swanpublishing.org or call us on 0121 689 0432 Birmingham and Solihull Women’s Aid’s Young Women’s Refuge celebrates first birthday in style Birmingham and Solihull Women’s Aid’s young women’s refuge, Seerose, celebrated its first anniversary with an exclusive event at Hazel & Haydn in the Jewellery Quarter.

Dale Hollinshead, Manager of Hazel & Haydn, opened his doors to the young women based at Seerose, aged between 16-25, offering them a range of services including: having their hair washed, cut and styled by his talented team.

Contract awarded at 750 home scheme Womens’ Aid and Birmingham City Women’s Football Club join alliances Birmingham and Solihull Women’s Aid (BSWA) have entered into a partnership with Birmingham City Women’s Football Club, allowing the charity to not only advertise and fundraise with the club, but also permit the team to become more engaged with BSWA’s day-to-day work.

BSWA are the largest, holistic provider of support services to women and children who have experienced any form of violence across the Birmingham and Solihull region, having supported 7,019 women and 4,135 children in the past year. Staff at their centres work with each woman to create an individual support plan, which can include: ‘Money Management’ and ‘Understanding your Rights’ courses, as well as self-esteem and confidence workshops. They even go as far as help with shopping, cooking and cleaning, ensuring that everyone they work with has the skills to move forward and create a successful life for themselves after they have left refuge.

A Birmingham-based groundworks and civil engineering company has been appointed on the infrastructure works for IM Properties’ 750-home development within Blythe Valley Park.

M Lambe Construction will work on the Solihull scheme after being handed the contract by Bloor Homes. full story at Insider Media www.insidermedia.com

Many of the women that attended have never been to a professional salon before, making this celebration even more meaningful. Part of BSWA’s work is to present the women in their care with new experiences, exposing them to opportunities which may even start them on a new career path.

BSWA are the largest, holistic provider of support services to women and children who have experienced any form of violence across the Birmingham & Solihull Region, having supported 7,019 women and 4,135 children in the past year. Seerose is a unique refuge that has been developed by BSWA in response to the experiences of the young women in their other five refuges; building and establishing life skills as many have never lived alone.

For more information on Birmingham and Solihull Women’s Aid and how to support them please email supportus@bswaid.org or call 0121 685 8687

Find out more at: bswaid.org

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2018

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Local Business Directory

Support your local community = Supporting your local economy + Watching our neighbourhood thrive!

Beauty Therapy Sk:n

4

Building & Roofing

20

Hardiman Construction

Carpentry

Peter Mertens Carpentry

20

4

Credit Control

UK Central Credit Management Ltd

Events What’s on pages

Gardening & Landscaping

Restaurant

4

School

11 12

Hallfield School

Smart Alarm Systems

8/9

28

Solicitor

27 2

Sweet Chillies

SmartInstall Limited

2 Central Driveways 20 Dimension Driveways & Landscapes 20 Betel UK Garden Treeworks

Cullen Plumbing & Tiling

King Edward VI Camp Hill School

Chauffeur Services Kingsmarque

Plumbing

18 14/15

The Wilkes Partnership Veale Wasbrough Vizards

Tiling Cullen Plumbing & Tiling

Windows & Doors

Cloudy2Clear

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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.

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MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2018

HOME & GARDEN

Cullen

17 Whitacre Rd, Knowle cullenplumbingandtiling@gmail.com

Tel: 07896 862 916 Established in 2005

Plumbing & Tiling  Full bathroom and ensuite design and

installation to the highest standards with complete project management from start to completion

 Kitchen Sinks and Taps, Dishwasher and Washing Machine Installation

Qualified

 Showroom Finish Wall & Floor Tiling for bathrooms, kitchens, hallways and conservatories

 Specialist in ceramic, porcelain, natural stone tiling

 Business built on recommendation and

 Central Heating & Radiators  General Plumbing Maintenance & Repair

reputation

All Work Guaranteed Reliable Honest Service References and Portfolio of Work Available

Call Alex Cullen

NOW on 07896 862 916 For a free no-obligation quotation

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2018

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‘Burglars target homes where there is no visible sign of protection’ Crime Reduction Manager, West Midlands Police.

Burglar Alarms We offer a standard wireless system or choose the ‘smart’ option that can send alerts directly to your mobile.

CCTV systems For added security our CCTV system, which also links to your mobile device, protects your property day and night.

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and I have already ago. Very happy with the process Had alarm fitted by them a while A Leem ily. fam and nds frie my to d recommende customer e. The service was excellent and the hom my to ed fitt v cct and rm ala I had an Colin T mend SmartInstall to anyone. care was unbeatable. I would recom ing. ation to installation and commission Brilliant service from initial consult Terry M y. nt and credit to himself and compan elle exc s wa er ine eng tion alla inst Our

Call your local installer now on 0121 634 8081 or visit SmartInstall.com

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