December 2019 - My Knowle & Dorridge

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

DECEMBER/ JANUARY 2019/20

MAGAZINE MY INSPIRED BY OUR ANCESTORS

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Over local readers

GET YOUR HOME LIT...

40,000

KNOWLE & DORRIDGE

SIMPLE PRACTICES

To tighten the family bond

! n o s a e S t s Fea

THE SECRETS BEHIND

DRESSING FOR YOUR SHAPE

LOCAL BUSINESS DIRECTORY INSIDE

See page

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FOOD • LIFESTYLE • EVENTS • HOME MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20 & GARDEN 1 & DRINK

Solihull’s Luxury New Care Home MARKETING SUITE NOW OPEN If you’re considering care options for yourself or a loved one, visit our new Marketing Suite at Fountains Care Home. Meet our friendly team and experience for yourself what life will be like in our home, before our official opening in spring 2020.

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Tel: 0121 514 8369 www.barchester.com/Fountains 1355 Stratford Road, Shirley, Solihull, B90 4EF Our Marketing Suite is open at the following times: Tuesday–Sunday: 10am–5pm and Thursday: 12–8pm Minibus • Café • Private dining • Spa bathroom • Hair salon • Wi-fi • En-suite rooms

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MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20

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CHRISTMAS TREECYCLING 11th & 12th January 2020 In exchange for a donation, we’ll collect and recycle your tree

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9 - 20

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Book your collection before 6th January Our volunteers will be collecting from selected postcodes Book today at www.birminghamhospice.org.uk/treecycling or call 0121 752 8779 In partnership with

Kindly supported by

Advert 71x 99mm MY MAGAZINE.indd 1

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MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20

22/10/2019 11:50

Contents

DECEMBER / JANUARY COMMUNITY ACTIVITY 19

WORD ON THE STREET LEISURE & RETAIL

12/13

WHAT’S YOUR SHAPE?

11

WHAT’S ON GUIDE

?

FIND GREG THE GNOME TO WIN FAMILY DAY OUT! HOME & GARDEN

27

GET INSPIRED TO LIGHT YOUR HOME

25

HOT TIPS FROM BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS LOCAL INTEREST

9

MAYOR PRAISE FOR RECENT LOCAL AWARDS EDUCATION

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TUTOR LISTING PAGE HEALTH

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FAMILY BONDING TIME FOOD & DRINK

LOCAL BUSINESS DIRECTORY ON PG

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LITTLE FESTIVE TREATS LEGAL & FINANCIAL

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WILKES - LPAS MORE FLEXIBLE

20/21

WHO DIED FIRST? DOES IT REALLY MATTER?

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20

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Deluxe Window Cleaning

Your local Window Cleaner

Tel: 01332 0121 6841711 Mobile: 07531 07415 612992 346584 881138 Mobile: Web: www.deluxewindowcleaning.co.uk

Web: www.windowcleanersderby.co.uk Email: Info@deluxewindowcleaning.co.uk Email: Steve info@windowcleanersderby.co.uk Pritchard

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MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20

Winter is coming... but not before we have had our fair share of Autumn with the delights of bonfire night and Halloween around the corner.

And let’s face it - it’s time we started to think about Christmas. To celebrate the anticipation of this magical time of year we have ten pairs of tickets to the Christmas Festive Fair at the NEC to giveaway! All you need to do is hop over to our website and enter your details for a chance to win.

Since we started our local reads page we have been impressed with the amount of local readers who are published authors. This issue we highlight Motorcycling the Ultimate Therapy and we have a copy of the book to give away to one lucky reader. If you have a book up your sleeve let us know about it and we would be delighted to help spread the word.

So now it’s time to curl up on the sofa with a nice cup of tea and enjoy the rest of the magazine.

Bye for now,

Ruby, Amy and Julie www.swanpublishing.org @TheMYMagazines @amyMYMag email info@swanpublishing.org

Our reader survey found...

51%

EDITOR’S WELCOME

Hello Neighbours!

54% 74%

Look in MY Magazine

Have used

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need a service

MY Magazine

reading about it in MY Magazine

FIRST when they

a business or service from

Amy Watson

Managing Director

amywatson@swanpublishing.org

0121 689 0432

Ruby Prosser

Designer & Editor

rubywatson@swanpublishing.org

0121 689 0432

to an event after

Find Greg!

All you need to do to enter our prize draw for the perfect family day out at Birmingham Botanical Gardens is find Greg the pesky gnome who is hiding somewhere in our pages. Enter through the website swanpublishing.org

Julie Wilkins Advertising

juliewilkins@swanpublishing.org

07914 145 638

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20

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‘TREECYCLE’ YOUR CHRISTMAS TREE... ...and raise vital funds for a local hospice!

Take the hassle out of recycling your Christmas tree this New Year by allowing a local hospice to pick it up from your doorstep.

Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice’s ‘Treecycling’ campaign will see volunteers collect thousands of used Christmas trees from across Birmingham, Sandwell and Solihull, in return for a donation to the charity.

The initiative takes place on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 January, and will see trees recycled into compost and biomass fuel.

All funds raised from Treecycling will go towards the Hospice, which Picturedvital above, Hutton provides careCaroline to local people of Martineau Gardens watches who are living with life-limiting Andy Street, CBE Mayor of the illness.

West Midlands cut the ribbon with Charlottethat Nicholson of Jowill The postcodes Treecycling Malone be collecting from,London. are: B13, B14, B15, B17, B25, B26, B27, B28, visitB32, the Martineau B29,Please B30, B31, B38, B45, website for more B47,Gardens B62, B67, B68, B90, B91, B92, B93 & information: B94. Collections will needmartineau-gardens.org.uk/ to be booked by Monday 6 January.visitor-information’

To book your collection, visit: birminghamhospice.org.uk/treecycling

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MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20

Mayor Andy Street with Joseph Vaughan of 1683 Chocolate Place.

West Midlands Mayor Andy Street praises Knowle High Street as businesses pick up top awards

West Midlands Mayor Andy Street says Knowle businesses are setting the standard when it comes to creating a vibrant high street – after two picked up major accolades at the Solihull Chamber of Commerce Awards.

Mr Street, who heads up the West Midlands Combined Authority, was guest speaker at the annual awards ceremony at the Marriott Forest of Arden hotel near Meriden earlier this month.

The former Managing Director of John Lewis, who grew up in Solihull, told local business leaders about his plans to rejuvenate town centres, which include lobbying for tax cuts for high street businesses and encouraging public services to share premises with commercial businesses.

But after the ceremony he was full of praise for Knowle’s High Street, after

local businesses scooped two of the biggest prizes on the night.

Chocolates using the best and freshest ingredients.

“Before becoming West Midlands Mayor, I spent three decades working in retail at John Lewis, so I understand the challenges faced by traders and what is needed to stand out in business,” he said.

Mr Street said the two award winners showed Knowle High Street at its very best.

“Knowle High Street faces the same challenges as everywhere else, but it is punching well above its weight to beat businesses from across Solihull to pick up these awards. It’s very encouraging indeed.”

Eric Lyons Fine Food Specialists won Outstanding Small Business of the Year at the awards. The family-run firm has been a fixture of Knowle High Street since 1903 and is proud of its reputation as a trusted, local retailer.

“Any successful High Street needs traders and shops that stand out from the crowd and really connect with the local community.

“In Eric Lyons, Knowle clearly has a long-standing firm that takes great pride in not only its products and customer service, but in its place in the community. Joseph Vaughan’s success shows that new businesses can also flourish if they take the same approach.

“Judging by the results of the Chamber of Commerce Awards, Knowle High Street is leading the way.”

The shop has undergone major renovation in the past year, including the installation of a dedicated pie kitchen, a window fridge, and a ‘grab and go’ counter.

While Eric Lyons has been a mainstay of the High Street since the start of the 20th Century, a business launched less than a decade ago picked up another of the evening’s major awards.

Since the revamp the business has enjoyed a welcome upturn in sales and a hoard of new customers.

The trophy for Outstanding Young Achiever of the Year was picked up by Joseph Vaughan, owner and founder of 1683 Chocolate Place.

The firm is a big supporter of its local community, and every year hosts a BBQ for the Knowle and Dorridge Lion’s annual fun run.

Joseph had a simple goal in mind: he wanted to make Luxury Artisan

Joseph opened 1683 Chocolate Place in September 2015, just two weeks after he turned 16 years old, making him the UK’s Youngest Chocolatier.

Keep up to date with Andy Street at www.fb.com/andy4wm

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20

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MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20

LEISURE & RETAIL

What’s on DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20

Monthly Markets & Fairs

Seasonal Events

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

AUTUMN HIGHLIGHTS

Festive feast & outdoor cinema Find last-minute stocking fillers and enjoy a tasty bite to eat for lunch.

Also look out for the return of the free Christmas outdoor cinema.

Where: Mell Square When: 16 Dec Info: solihull.gov.uk

Shirley Band Christmas concert Join Shirley Band at this special Christmas concert.

Where: Shirley Baptist Church, Stratford Road When: 7 Dec Info: solihull.gov.uk

Classes

Vicki Gorman Weekly Art Classes for adults who want to learn or develop drawing and painting skills. All abilities and ages welcome.

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

Festive Fun Father Christmas is making a special appearance in the park so follow the festive trail to meet him in his grotto and receive a small gift!

Face painting and a Christmas craft activity is also available on site.

Where: Meriden Park, 12pm - 3pm When: 7 Dec Info: solihull.gov.uk

Santa in love Interactive family show in Studio includes child gift and meet Santa!

Where: The Core Theatre When: 20-24 Dec Info: thecoretheatresolihill.co.uk Oct 9-10 11 12

Joe Brown - 60th Anniversary Crooners - Comedy music show Hound of The Baskervilles hit farce

26 28 30

And Finally... Phil Collins tribute Legends of American Country Show The Wizard of Oz - Ballet

Nov 1-2

The Scarecrows’ Wedding

5 8 12 13

Witty Ditties - Green & Matthews Box of Frogs - Comedy Improv Shackleton’s Carpenter drama The Pitmen Poets

shows at 2.30 & 7.30pm

shows at 2.30 & 7.30pm

shows at 3.30pm & 1pm & 3.30pm

Nov Cont..

One Night in Dublin 14 15 Twist and Shout 60s hits 16 Geoff Norcott: Taking Liberties 26 Malcolm Stent’s Christmas 27 28 29 30

Songs of Praise Show Blake harmony trio The Lock in Christmas Carol MYJO Christmas Concert Lucy Worsley - Queen Victoria

Dec 20-24

Santa in Love

to 5�1

Various shows start times

Robin Hood Pantomime

See details below

Box Office: 0121 704 6962 www.thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk

Robin Hood!

From the team behind last year’s Sleeping Beauty comes a brand new pantomime adventure that targets your funny bone!

Where: The Core Theatre When: 13 Dec - 5 Jan Info: thecoretheatresolihill.co.uk

Volunteering Tree Planting Help the Conservation Volunteers to plant trees at Bills Wood. Times will be agreed by those taking part.

Where: Bills Wood, Shirley When: 15 Dec Info: solihull.gov.uk Kingshurst Literary Litter Pickers Set up in 2018, meeting once a month to do littler picks. Kingshurst Literary Litter Pickers are very keen for parents and particularly primary age children to be involved and try and include all members of the community. It is hosted in the library to also help promote their services.

Where: Kingshurst Library When: 28 Dec Info: solihull.gov.uk

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20

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FASHION

WHICH BODY SHAPE ARE YOU? This issue Dawn Marriott shares her expert advice on how to dress for your shape, embracing all the variety our bodies offer!

Here’s my guide to the 4 basic body Shapes.

Apple

Celeb – Catherine Zeta Jones

Our bodies come under a lot of scrutiny and we are usually our own biggest critics. “My arms are too fat, my tummy too squidgy, my legs are too short” are just some of the things I hear when I’m with my clients. We can be so hard on ourselves focusing way too much on the bits we don’t like whilst forgetting about our good bits!

This is why I share my knowledge on body shapes and how to dress your shape confidently with all of my clients.

Understanding what shape we might be and why some things just don’t work on us is key when it comes to knowing exactly what to wear in order to feel your very best.

Style gurus like Gok Wan and Trinny and Suzannah have talked a lot over the years about body shapes and shown us endless programs on how to dress - but do you know which body shape you are?

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A slash neck or wide neck is perfect for creating balance across your slimmer shoulders. You can go wild with top details, big shoulders, puff sleeves, ruffles, embellishment you can have it all.

If you are an Apple you will carry your weight around your bust and tummy.

You will probably have great legs and good bust too! Draw attention away from your middle area by layering but do avoid patterns across your tummy area where possible, a plain block of colour is way more flattering. Size up in a shirt or top, as clingy fabrics will only make you look bigger across the chest.

Going for a darker colour on your bottom half is the perfect way to balance your top half, keeping the focus on your upper body. Wider leg and boot cut trousers are ideal to add balance to your curvy hips.

Emphasise your great shape bust by opting for V-necks, plunging necklines and scoop necks, this will not only enhance your shape but also draw the eye upwards.

Try to avoid adding volume across the hips where possible, steering away from pleats, pockets and thick fabric.

A-line dresses and swing shape tops are the perfect style for you.

And lastly show off your legs they are one of your best assets!

Pear

Celeb - Holly Willoughby If you are a Pear you will carry your weight on your hips and thighs. Your hips will be notably bigger than your bust. You may have a flat tummy and this must be enhanced.

Ensure your dresses and tops are nipped in at the waist, Bright colours and bold prints work great on your top half.

An A line skirt or dress nipped in at the waist is perfect for showing off your shapely figure.

Rectangle Celeb - Zoe Ball

You will measure pretty much the same across your bust, waist and hips if you are a Rectangle. Your waist although it may be small usually isn’t very prominent.

There are only a couple of rules here and the biggest one is to avoid anything belted.

Belted garments won’t enhance having little waist definition; it will simply make you look shapeless.

Dresses are best suited in a straight shift shape showing off your slim physique.

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20

FASHION

Trousers can be skinny, crop, or wide and the same goes for tops any shape will work well for you. You can create the illusion of a smaller waist by adding a tuck into your trousers or skirt, showing a glimpse of your waist drawing the eye to this smaller detail.

High waisted is usually a no no too and this can make your tummy area look wide (even though its not). Instead opt for defining arm or legs (not both together), as these are usually one of your best assets.

Nipping in at your waist is the hard fast rule for you. Showing off your tiny waist is paramount. Hiding behind shapeless items of clothing will only make you look square and ultimately bigger.

accept the ones we don’t love so much is a great place to start!

Opt for V-neck, boat neck and scoop neck tops, avoiding high necks and polo necks as they can create a block feeling across your chest. Fit and flare dresses are perfect for the hourglass fitting in all the right places.

x Dawn

Hourglass

Celeb Kirstie Allsopp

Lastly the belt is your new best friend – belts on skirts, trousers, belted dresses and belted coats, highlight that tiny waist!

The Jessica rabbit shape. Your hips and bust will be of similar measurement and your waist much smaller if you are an Hourglass - highlighting your waist is key.

Just remember though that whatever shape you are, we are all different - very different, understanding your body shape and identifying your best assets along with having the confidence to

If you need any further help with body shapes please don’t hesitate to give me a call!

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

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20

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AWA R D W I N N I N G E S TAT E A G E N T

John Shepherd Collection exclusively covers the most prestigious ÂŁ1 million plus luxury properties across Warwickshire and the West Midlands. Led by select team of experienced local staff, we take pride in ensuring each and every property we market is presented to the highest standard. Collection offer many services tailored to suit personal needs and work with clients to achieve their desired end goal.

Please call to arrange a free market appraisal.

Your property is OUR PRIORITY.

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t. 01564 786 633 e. collection@johnshepherd.com w. johnshepherd.com MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20

HEALTH & WELLBEING

SERVING UP HAPPINESS Family bonding time for psychological wellbeing.

Creating an intimate moment in the day where the family comes together and feel peaceful in each others company works wonders for the family bond. These little moments have a huge impact on the broader picture of mental wellbeing. Here are some easy and simple components to setting the tone for a beautiful family moment.

SET THE TABLE Setting the table brings family together before the food is ready, and gives you a chance to communicate without the spotlight being on any one of you.

CENTREPEICE Make it feel like you’re always celebrating with a decorative centrepiece. A small flower in a vase or small potted candles, it sounds so simple but these little touches make us feel special when we eat out, and will too when we eat in.

SERVING UP Sometimes, for no reason in particular, it’s fun to get out the fancy bowls, or perhaps just plate up the food in an unusual way to keep things interesting. Try serving up pizzas on a wooden chopping board, or popping your pasta on slate plates.

MUSIC The music shouldn’t be too disruptive to the flow of conversation but will keep the evening feeling lively and fun. There’s nothing worse than a silent restaurant, so why would a silent dining room be any different?

Complete antenatal education Hypnobirthing

Pregnancy and post-‐natal yoga Post-‐natal mum & baby yoga

Group and private courses with fully-certified practitioner available across Solihull, Warwickshire & West Midlands

Learn more and book your classes: 0 7 4 8 3 2 1 3 1 8 6 / 0 1 5 6 4 7 9 11 5 1 w w w. s o p h r o s y n e b i r t h . c o m info@sophrosynebirth.com

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20

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HEALTH & WELLBEING HEALTH

|

07815 460786 01827 892952

June receives an early

Christmas present

“It is amazing how just being able to brush your own hair can change your whole outlook on life,” according to great grandmother June Shakespeare.

Eighty-four-year-old June had been gradually losing the use of her fingers over the past few years until it reached the stage where she could hardly use her hands at all.

But, following surgery to reattach tendons that had become worn away by wrist arthritis June, who lives in Great Barr, has been able to grab back the many day-to-day skills that most people take for granted.

“Opening doors, taking lids off jars, holding a cup or taking money from my purse – even brushing my hair, had become almost impossible. You can’t imagine just how much that impacted on my daily life,” she explained.

As the condition continued to deteriorate June met with specialist hand and wrist surgeon Mr Gunaratnam Shyamalan at Spire Hospital. He explained that not only could he help her get movement back to her hands but he could also perform the surgery while she remained completely awake.

He said: “Years of arthritis in the bones of her wrist meant that the tendons to her fingers had been severed or ruptured – it is not an uncommon condition in elderly patients.

“What I did was use sections of healthy tendons to repair the torn ones while carrying out repairs to the badly damaged ones. I used a technique called WALANT (Wide Awake Local Anaesthesia No Tourniquet) which meant

June was able to stay awake throughout the entire operation."

“Not only does this seem to put patients at their ease, it also means they don’t have to recover from the effects of a general anaesthetic which speeds up their actual recovery process.”

Now, following a series of physiotherapy treatments, June is delighted to have ‘excellent movement’ back in her wrist.

She said: “The operation went very well and I was delighted to be able to chat to people in the operating theatre as Mr Shyamalan carried out his work. It really put me at ease both before and during the actual surgery.

“It really is beyond my expectations to be able to do some everyday things that most people take for granted and, as a bit of a bonus, there is hardly a scar to show for the surgery he carried out.”

June is delighted with the results of her wrist surgery.

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

Cornfield Magazine | 15

24/10/2019 11:32

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MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Quality care in your own home

Bluebird care (Solihull) is a privately owned local business operating only in the Solihull Metropolitan borough area, with offices in Shirley. Our main aim is to deliver high quality care to vulnerable people in their own homes, so that they can remain as independent as possible and remain in the familiar surroundings that they love. Our service is available 365 days per year and from a half hour to 24 hours per day. In addition all of our carers are trained in Dementia and Alzheimer’s.

We provide personal care, for example, washing, bathing, toileting, dressing, getting into bed and getting up in the morning, administering medication. Bluebird care also provides home care such as help with ironing, cleaning, cooking, shopping etc. We can also provide companionship services for people, for instance reading to them, playing board games or taken to a show or a favourite venue.

Our personalised service is provided by very highly trained carers who are recruited locally.All of our carers are CRB checked and multi referenced to give you peace of mind. Our aim is to give you the same care staff so that they can get to know you as an individual and really know what matters to you.

PMJ House, Highlands Road, Shirley, Solihull, West Midlands B90 4ND T: 0121 7117435 E: solihull@bluebirdcare.co.uk www.bluebirdcare.co.uk

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20

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LPAs more flexible Following a judgement made by Senior Judge Hilda earlier this year, Lasting Powers of Attorney can now be made more flexible to allow for regular payments to beneficiaries other than the subject of the LPA, according to Ann-Marie Aston from Solihull law firm The Wilkes Partnership.

Earlier this year Senior Judge Hilda went through cases and concerns raised by the Public Guardian highlighting the desire of the donor for funds to be used to benefit someone other than the donor.

After reviewing these cases the judge came to the decision that an LPA can allow flexibility as long as it is worded as optional rather than mandatory.

Within the preference box it should say ‘my wish…’ For example, ‘I have been paying school fees for my grandchildren, it is my wish that this

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continue…’ This enables the attorney to make a decision as to how long this can continue based upon the level of funds available.

As set out in section 12 of the Mental Capacity Act, up until now it has been possible to make regular ‘gifts’ such as small birthday or Christmas presents but in the main all financial decisions made by the attorney had to be in favour of the donor.

If you have an LPA in place you may wish to review the wording in light of this judgement. And if you are considering putting one in place it is recommended that you seek the assistance of a qualified solicitor who can help you ensure that your wishes will be met.

If you would like more information on Lasting Powers of Attorney please contact Anne-Marie Aston at The Wilkes Partnership - aaston@wilkes.co.uk.

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

0121 733 8000 www.wilkes.co.uk

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20

COMMUNITY ACTIVITY

WORD ON THE

STREET NEW SUPPORT WORKER SERVICE COULD HELP SAVE BABIES LIVES

£20M FUNDING FOR COMMONWEALTH GAMES STILL TO BE SECURED

A new support worker service that could potentially save babies’ lives has launched in Birmingham.

Papers from this week’s resources overview and scrutiny committee show that only £54 million of an expected £75 million in ‘partner contributions’ has so far been raised by the council.

Link support workers have been introduced by Birmingham and Solihull United Maternity and Newborn Partnership (BUMP) to help women vulnerable and disadvantaged pregnant women to access and use maternity services provided

by University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust and Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust.

The support will also be available at Heartlands Hospital and other locations across the city.

Traditionally, women who live in areas of high deprivation and non-English speaking women are at a much greater risk of complications during pregnancy and birth. It is believed that this is because many do not have access to the right information in a format they can understand.

Link support workers encourage women to access their care early, help them to understand the wide range of choices that are available to them within the Birmingham and Solihull maternity system, and are on hand to attend clinics and provide essential information and support for these women.

Lola Sief is one of six link support workers and works alongside community midwifery teams at Heartlands Hospital.

She said: “This role bridges the gap for some women between them and their maternity care team. Women feel they have someone on their side to help them understand the information and to help them feel less alone when they go to appointments and classes. One lady rang me because she hadn’t felt her baby move and her mother in law told her to leave it for a few days. I was able to give her the correct advice and she came into the hospital to get checked out and her baby was ok.”

birminghamupdates.com

LANDMARK SCHEMES CELEBRATED AT WEST MIDLANDS PROPERTY AWARDS Landmark projects such as the redevelopment of Birmingham’s Centenary Square and Stoke’s Tunstall Arrow were in the spotlight at last night’s West Midlands Property Awards, with architecture practices, commercial developers and housebuilders across the region also celebrated.

Insider business editor Ian Griffin said it is “the most exciting time in a generation” to be involved in property in the West Midlands.

Billions of pounds are being pumped into our region by investors from across the UK and overseas to seize a slice of the superb opportunities which will come from an expanding Metro, Coventry City of Culture 2021, the Birmingham Commonwealth Games 2022 and HS2,” he added. insidermedia.com

Partner contributions makes up nearly half of the £184.7 million that the region is expected to stump up to help pay for the Commonwealth Games, and was due to come from a variety of sources including Local Enterprise Partnerships, the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and local universities.

However, it has now been revealed that the region is still some way short of achieving its total, with a £10 million contribution from the Midlands Engine and £10 million from local universities some of the largest sums still yet to be secured from organisations.

Papers note how “discussions with the various identified partners have been progressing at different speeds, with the main focus being on securing the two largest individual contributions, from the Greater Birmingham & Solihull LEP and the West Midlands Combined Authority,” which have now been secured.

However, the council also admitted that it would have to incur any costs for the time being, stating: “For those partner contributions where formal agreement has not yet been fully secured, dialogue will continue over the coming months with a view to reaching positive conclusions at the earliest opportunity, and it should be noted that the majority of expenditure to be funded through these contributions will be incurred by the council in 2020/21 and 2021/22.” expressandstar.com

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20

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LEGAL & FINANCIAL

Who Died First - Does It Really Matter?

The saying goes that where there’s a Will, there’s a way. However, when it comes to succession planning, there’s a little known rule which could lead the way to complications and even a legal battle.

The recent case of John and Ann Scarle, has brought into the limelight the question ‘Who died first?’.

Sadly, the married couple died of hypothermia in their home in Essex in October 2006. Their bodies were not found by neighbours until a week later. Mr and Mrs Scarle owned their family home and bank account jointly. This meant that these assets passed to the survivor of them.

All of this would have been fairly straightforward, had it not been for the fact that both Mr and Mrs Scarle had children from previous marriages. If Mr Scarle had died first, his share of the joint assets would have passed to his wife, and then on to her beneficiaries. If, on the other hand, Mrs Scarle had died first,

20

then her share of the joint assets would have passed to her husband and then on to his adult daughter.

Determining who died first is therefore absolutely crucial to establishing who inherits the house.

The Commorientes Rule When two or more people die at the same time and in circumstances where it is uncertain which one of them died first, the Law of Property Act 1925 introduces an assumption that the elder died before the younger. This is known as ‘the Commorientes rule’.

This means that Mr Scarle (as the elder) would have died first. His share of the property would then be

deemed to have passed over to Mrs Scarle, and then down to her beneficiaries on her death. This order of events would clearly disinherit Mr Scarle’s daughter, who was arguing that the rule should not be applied in these circumstances.

The High Court has ruled in favour of Mrs Scarle’s beneficiaries, who are now set to inherit the entire £300,000 estate. Due to a lack of scientific evidence allowing to reach a safe conclusion about who died first, the judge invoked the Commorientes rule. This means that Mr Scarle died first, so that Mrs Scarle’s beneficiaries will now inherit joint assets. Meanwhile Mr Scarle’s daughter will also face substantial costs.

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20

LEGAL & FINANCIAL

WWW.VWV.CO.UK What Does This Mean for Me? The implications of the Commorientes rule cannot be ignored. When making your Will, you should consider: · any children and grandchildren from previous relationships

If you have concerns about the circumstances in which a loved one’s Will was made, please contact Rachael Armstrong for specialist advice on 0121 227 3726 or at rarmstrong@vwv.co.uk

· whether your intended ultimate beneficiaries differ from those of your spouse/civil partner · the passing of jointly owned assets This case illustrates another reason to ensure that your Will is reviewed regularly and that you take advice from a specialist lawyer.

Need Legal Advice?

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

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

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MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20

21

EDUCATION “Laurence is a miracle worker and he has reaffirmed my faith in the power of good teaching.”

English GCSE Tutor I am a local, qualified English teacher. I have experience of exam marking, working in several local schools and my tuition has resulted in 16 years of outstanding results for many students locally.

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My particular field of expertise is working with students who are studying for their English Language and Literature GCSEs. CRB form, proof of qualifications and references supplied on request.

Contact Laurence Dalton at Learn More 4 A NOW to arrange your free initial assessment - quote ‘The MY Magazines’ to qualify. w: englishgcsetutor.co.uk e: learnmore4a@hotmail.co.uk t: 07525 206 388

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.

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Sarah Nation

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

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

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

Special rates for JLR emloyees.

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Laurence Dalton Learn More 4 A* B.A.P.G.C.E. English Tutoring

Specialising in GCSE language and literature Contact: www.englishgcsetutor. co.uk / 07525 206 388

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MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20

HOME & GARDEN

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HOME & GARDEN

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MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20

HOME & GARDEN

GARDENING TIPS FROM THE EXPERTS at Birmingham Botanical Gardens Even though daylight is reduced, there are jobs you can do in the garden, even in the depths of winter. Here are some tasks to consider:

* * *

We’ve had a lot of rain recently, so you may have noticed if you need to improve drainage and aeration in your garden. If you do, spike your lawns with a garden fork.

If we get a mild, dry period, it’s fine to continue cutting the lawn but just make sure that the mower blades are raised.

If, like us, you’ve been cleaning up the shed and greenhouse, you might have noticed that some of your tools aren’t as good as they once were. So, if you haven’t made your festive wishlist yet, you may want to drop hints about replenishing some of them! You can never have too many pairs of good gardening gloves.

If and when the weather’s really bad – sometimes even the hardiest of gardeners prefer to stay inside with a cup of tea – have a browse through the gardening catalogues to see if there are any flowers or shrubs that take your fancy for next year. And if you’re a vegetable grower, plan your scheme so that you introduce essential crop rotation.

There’s still some pruning to be done: fruit trees, climbing roses, acers and wisterias can all be pruned in December. Leave any faded hydrangea flower heads, though, as they provide protection for the new buds.

* * *

You can also take hardwood cuttings from dogwood, mock orange, viburnum and climbers including honeysuckle in December.

In January, make sure your pots and tools are all clean, ready for the new gardening season (if you haven’t done them already).

Start to force rhubarb – just think of the amazing crumble you can make!

* * * *

Tidy up the old stems on perennials, but be careful not to disturb new growth.

Deadhead winter pansies to stop them setting seed.

Cut back the old foliage from ornamental grasses to about a few centimetres from the ground.

Make sure you keep your bird feeders topped up with much-needed nutritional goodies, including fat balls and seeds.

They really need our help at this time of year.

Have a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy 2020! Here’s to a great gardening year.

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20

25

HOME & GARDEN

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MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20

HOME & GARDEN

LIGHT

UP YOUR

LIFE

When the days are so short and gloomy, lighting up our homes in beautiful ways becomes more important than ever to happy home life. Here are some tips inspired by the lives of our incredible ancestors, the hunter gatherers...

- Written by Ruby Prosser

FIRE

DAWN TILL DUSK

Such an alluring element, fire is undeniably inviting! What kind of idyllic winter-home scene is complete without a fire to huddle around?

The sun was once our wake up call, a great ally in the midday hunt, and our timepiece to help get us to safety before dark. Our connection to the sun is still embedded in our consciousness which is why we should endevour to follow its lead as much as we can.

Fireplaces offer more for our inner primal being than we give them credit for, they’re our natural focal point for social gatherings. Our species has spent more time as hunter gatherers than doing anything else, for nearly 2 million years! It was when we were at our most connected within our societies from time spent huddled together around the fire at night, gossiping about the day’s events. We’d do well to bring that into our living spaces.

Low, soft lighting eases us into the day with table lamps and ground level spotlights. Mid level lighting ushers it in further with floor lamps and low hanging ceiling lights. Bright overhead lighting brings us to the sun’s apex with warm spotlights and bright ceiling lamps. And then the day slowly eases back down to sunset. If we want to wake up gently, be productive and alert through the day, and feel relaxed and ready for sleep in the evening, this is how we tell our bodies.

MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20

27

FOOD & DRINK

}

Rose Apple Pie

Mini rose apple pies with cinnamon & powdered sugar INGREDIENTS

METHOD

1 roll shortcrust pastry 2 pink lady apples 100g brown sugar 60g unsalted butter 3 tbsp lemon juice 1 tbsp cinnamon 1 tbsp icing sugar

1. On a well floured surface, roll out the pastry and use a biscuit cutter or cup to cut it into small circles. Butter the cupcake dish and push your circles of dough into each hole. Chill in the fridge while preparing the filling.

2. Pre heat the oven to 190 degrees

3. Using a mandolin or very sharp knife, cut the apples to remove the core and then slice the apple into very thin half moon slices. Toss the apples with the lemon juice.

4. Melt half of the butter and combine with half of the brown sugar, and cinnamon. Toss the apples in this mixture and put in the microwave for about 1 minute (until apple is soft enough to roll).

5. Melt the remaining butter and combine with the remaining brown sugar, dust the bottom of each dough cup with this mixture.

6. To form the roses, lay about 10 apple slices on a flat surface horizontally with each overlapping the next one by half. Tightly roll from one end to the other and place into the dough cup, adding extra ‘petals’ where you see fit.

7. Put an apple rose in each cup of the muffin tin and bake for 25-30 minutes, when you remove, glaze the roses with jam and a dusting of icing sugar.

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MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20

HOME & GARDEN

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Local Business Directory Antenatal Support Sophrosyne Birth

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Architect

Avon Architecture Limited

Bike Shop

Bike Pro Racing

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Building & Construction ARB Building Ltd

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Care Home

Fountains Care Home 2

Carers / Home Help

Bluebird Care Solihull 17

Charity

Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice

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Cleaning & Ironing

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Mopheads

Computer Support

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Net Clicks

Entertainment

CBSO 32

Estate Agent John Shepherd Collection

Furniture Maker Peter Mertens Carpentry

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Healthcare Services

Midland Hand Clinic

Plumbing

Cullen Plumbing & Tiling

Property Maintenance

JH Garden & Property Services

Roofing

Enterprise Roofing Rawlings Roofing Solutions

Shutter Doors

Garolla Shutter Doors

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Solicitor

The Wilkes Partnership 18 VWV

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Theatre

Birmingham Hippodrome

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Upcycled Furniture

Betel UK 24

Tutor Listing 22 Tutors

Learn more 4 A*

Window Cleaning

Deluxe Window Cleaning

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Window & Doors

Cloudy2clear Windows 29

Gardening & Landscaping

Betel UK Garden Treeworks 23 Central Driveways 31 Dimension Driveways & Landscapes 23 JH Garden & Property Services 29

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.

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MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20

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WITH THE CBSO at Symphony Hall, Birmingham

Wed 18 Dec, 7.30pm, Thu 19 Dec, 7.30pm, Fri 20 Dec, 6pm Fri 13 Dec, 7.30pm FRIDAY NIGHT CLASSICS

STAR WARS

A CHORAL CHRISTMAS

with guest presenter HUGH DENNIS

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Sun 5 Jan, 3pm

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Wed 29 Jan, 2.15pm Thu 30 Jan, 7.30pm

MIRGA’S BEETHOVEN

Call 0121 780 3333 or book online cbso.co.uk/christmas

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MY KNOWLE & DORRIDGE, DECEMBER / JANUARY 2019/20