October 2018 - My Solihull Central

October / November 2018

MARVERINE COLE

40,000

Over local readers

MY

SOLIHULL CENTRAL

Exclusive interview with inspirational Brummie

3 FEET OF SPACE

Creating lovely little spaces in your home siness Local Bu side! y in Director e See pag

30

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EVERGREEN GARDEN

Year - round garden colour

Food & Drink | Entertainment | Fashion | Home & Garden | Legal & Financial | Health

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

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MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2018

This issue we are excited to bring you an exclusive interview with our very own Marverine Cole. A heartwarmingly down to earth and intimidatingly impressive woman all at the same time. As well as forging her own successful TV and radio career she has always had time to bring others along and has now taken that great leap into academia heading up the new dedicated journalism course at BCU. With, dare we say it, festive season just around the corner, it’s time to get planning and within our pages you will find everything from Christmas markets to glitzy nights out on the town. We also have a couple of mouthwatering seasonal recipes for you to get your teeth into and some sensible and quirky home and garden ideas if you’re into that kind of thing.

And if you’re 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 (click the sign-up button on our Facebook page) 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

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2018

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A Pins & Needles and Midlands Arts Centre Original Co-Commission

Sat 17 November - Mon 31 December £9.50 - £13.50 / Ages 4+

macbirmingham.co.uk

0121 446 3232

Midlands Arts Centre Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham, B12 9QH Registered Company no. 718349 | Registered Charity no. 528979

Sat 27 Oct – Fri 2 Nov Who wants to play?

A brand new digital festival with something for all ages and a splattering of spooky tricks and treats.

macbirmingham.co.uk/little-geeks 0121 446 3232 MAC gratefully thanks Arts Council England, players of People’s Postcode Lottery, The Cole Charitable Trust and The John Feeney Charitable Trust for their generous financial support.

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MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2018

CONTENTS

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2018

ss usine e!

B l a Loc ory insid ct Dire e page Se

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COVER STORY Marverine Cole: Exclusive interview with a truly inspirational Brummie 6/7

COMMUNITY ACTIVITY Word on the street 29

LEISURE & RETAIL Autumn colours for your wardrobe 14 Dos and don’ts of double denim 15 What’s on guide 12/13

HOME & GARDEN Ideas for tiny spaces 23 Your evergreen garden 21

LEGAL & FINANCIAL Advice on lasting powers of attorney 24/25 Time to end the divorce blame game? 27

EDUCATION Local private tutors 28

HEALTH 5 reasons to get on your bike 8

FOOD & DRINK Where to eat 19 Foraged food: Sweet Chestnut Recipes 18

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“

BIRMINGHAM IS FULL OF TALENT; MUSIC, FILMMAKING, JOURNALISTIC...

”

MARVERINE COLE

T

his issue we are proud to bring you an exclusive interview with award-winning journalist and broadcaster, Brummie, media mentor and media educator Marverine Cole. Many of you will have seen her presenting the news on BBC Midlands Today, Sky News, ITV News or heard her on BBC Radio 4, BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC Radio WM… the list goes on.

So many great accomplishments, what has been your biggest challenge so far?

Probably one of my biggest challenges professionally was when I chose to leave a permanent staff job at BBC Midlands Today to take a leap of faith and join Sky News. Sky News had

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asked me to join them three nights a week to present the World News and Business Report Show, a five hour live rolling news programme. What I’d done before were two minute news bulletins on BBC Midlands Today.

What has been your most proud moment in your career?

My proudest achievements of my career were at Sky News where I dealt with big stories like the nomination of president Obama and then his inauguration, the Lehman Brothers bankruptcy that led to the international financial crash in 2008, and the MP expenses scandal in 2009. One of my funniest or most memorable moments was probably interviewing Will Smith, I managed to persuade him to give me a kiss on the cheeks.

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2018

Tell us about some of the things you’ve been doing to help Brummies realise their TV and radio ambitions.

Over the last ten years I’ve been mentoring young aspiring journalists that want to be TV or radio presenters. I also shortlist applications for the Journalism Diversity Fund bursary that’s run by the National Council for the Training of Journalists - the NCTJ. And I’ve just been appointed as course director of a brand new multimedia journalism degree course at Birmingham City University.

Tell us about what motivates you.

I’ve always been interested in helping people who aspire to become a journalist, broadcaster, TV or radio presenter. I also like to help people tell their story in a way that might help others or might change policy or really inform and educate and entertain people.

Were there any Birmingham resources that helped you realise your aspirations?

Yes. Resources is not quite the word but the fact that there was a booming TV and radio production sector when I was a teen here in Birmingham definitely fuelled my aspirations. I did work experience at Pebble Mill when I was 16 and got to see the studios and make tea for Ed Doolan. I also did work experience at Central TV and BRMB. How did you choose the topic Black Girls Don’t Cry for your recent BBC Radio 4 documentary?

As a journalist I was looking for a story that hadn’t been told. I made sure it was the sort of documentary BBC radio 4 would air and found out whether or not they had looked at this topic before. Then I pitched it. Also I was personally affected - in 2000 I experienced a period of depression after a bad break up, being made redundant and struggling to keep my social housing flat.

What kind of reaction did you receive from Black Girls Don’t Cry?

Is there anything else you would like to say?

Huge. Overwhelming. I’ve never had a reaction like it. Messages from all over the country - practically all the national newspapers listed it as the radio documentary to listen to that coming week. I’ve also had good feedback from the commissioners. I feel really proud that I’ve created hopefully the a start of debate. Lots of women thanked me because it resonated with them.

I moved to Kings Heath almost three years ago. My husband and I saw how exciting and vibrant the area is - full of creative people, full of the whole mix of people; black, white, yellow, brown, different classes, different religions, everyone gets along. It’s lively, its fun. Kings Heath rocks.

Tell me about the course you’re running at BCU and Birmingham’s rising talent.

Birmingham is full of talent; music, filmmaking, journalistic. I’m so excited about my course. It’s a BA honours in journalism and as course director I shape it and look for opportunities for students to get work placements and work experience. But I also teach on it and ensure all the teaching is up to date. All the lecturers on the course are practitioners which means we currently work in the field. Our students learn what news is, the ethics and law around journalism, news gathering and how to produce news from multiple platforms, how to write for the online space, TV and radio production, how to be a mobile studio filming and editing on their iPhones and iPads. So they learn a lot. It’s a great course.

To find out more about Marverine visit marverinecole.co.uk To find out more about Undergraduate and Postgraduate courses at Birmingham City University’s School of Media visit bcu.ac.uk/ media

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2018

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Introduce yourself?

Want your business to meet the neighbourhood?

Your ad should be here!

Visit swanpublishing.org or call 0121 689 0432

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

1.

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

2.

Reduce risk of diabetes and high blood pressure.

3.

Increase muscle tone Get those chiselled legs, and burn fat across the body at the same time.

4. Strong heart & big lungs -

Heart age is very important, this heavy duty cardio will keep your heart in tip top condition.

5.

Bones of steel! The body sends essential minerals to strengthen bones when they are stressed, so cycling helps to strengthen ligaments, tendons and bones.

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MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2018

HEALTH & WELLBEING

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2018

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

Luxurious New Care Home For a life well-lived in the heart of Edgbaston Built on the site of BBC’s fondly remembered Pebble Mill Studio, this luxurious care home provides nursing, residential and dementia care from staff who believe great care is about real relationships and deep respect.

Today’s new ‘Pebble Mill’ has stunning design features and exceptional facilities, including comfortable, bright areas perfect for enjoying delicious meals, or for taking part in the variety of organised activities on offer each day.

Whether it’s a summer evening with family by the pizza oven in the garden, relaxing in the wellness salon or time with a good book on the roof terrace, Pebble Mill is a place to feel happy, reassured and relaxed.

Visit Pebble Mill for a warm welcome and a look around – see for yourself how its famous history is proudly stitched throughout the fabric of the purpose-built building and experience what makes Pebble Mill part of Bupa’s prestigious ‘Select Collection’.

Pebble Mill Care Home, 2 Mill Pool Way, Edgbaston B5 7EG

0121 314 7322

bupa.co.uk/pebble-mill

Lines are open 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm Saturday and Sunday. For training and quality purposes, we may record or monitor our calls.

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MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2018

LEISURE & RETAIL

www.bikeproracing.net Bike Pro Racing 50 High Street Birmingham B14 7JZ

Tel: 0121 441 1199 info@bikeproracing.net

Bikes

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Clothing

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Parts

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Servicing

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Accessories

My Solihull

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MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2018

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LEISURE & RETAIL

What’s on October / November 2018

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

Christmas Craft Fayre Christmas crafts from home & abroad Where: Solihull High Street When: 3 Nov, 10 Nov. 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

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Seasonal Events

Haunting Halloween Take a scary walk around the park to meet Smelly Nelly the witch and her monstrous friends, enjoy spooky storytelling and magic.

Where: Brueton Park When: 28 Oct Info: Solihull.gov.uk/events

Nature Tots - Halloween Spooks Why not dress up and play some spooky games? You will make some magic potions and learn which animals are brave enough to be out and about on Halloween! Ages 2-4.

Where: The Parkridge Centre When: 2 Nov Info: Solihull.gov.uk/events Haunted Halloween & Guy Fawkes Get into the festive spirit at Hogarths with fireworks, music, story telling, fancy dress competition, pumpkin carving, bonfire, delicious food and more!

Where: Hogarths Solihull When: 4 Nov, 3pm, - 8pm Info: hogarths.co.uk

Volunteers Needed Christmas in the Park Father Christmas is making a special appearance in the park so come and visit him in his grotto to receive a small gift!

Where: The Parkridge Centre When: 9 Dec 12pm - 3pm Info: solihull.gov.uk Wicked Workshop & Terror Trail Follow the spooky terror trail around the park if you are brave enough, then take part in a creepy craft activity and wear your most frightening Halloween costume for a chance to win the fancy dress competition!

Where: Elmdon Park When: 31 Oct Info: solihull.gov.uk Scrooge- the Musical Performed by SMASH musical and drama group.

When: 30 Jan- 2nd Feb 2019 Where: Solihull Methodist Church Info: solihull-smash.org.uk

Woodland Management Help the Conservation Volunteers to manage the woodlands in Millisons Wood.

Where: Millisons Wood When: 4 Nov Info: solihull.gov.uk, or to register, email davidcollins1@aol.com or ring Dave Fernie on 0121 459 1697.

Coppicing around pond Help the Conservation Volunteers to coppice the area around the pond in Marston Green.

Where: Marston Green When: 25 Nov Info: Solihull.gov.uk/events, or to register, email davidcollins1@aol. com, or ring Dave Fernie on 0121 459 1697.

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2018

o ings to d h t f o t o h LL A snaps SOLIHU d n u o r / in and a October h g u o r h t er Novemb

LEISURE & RETAIL

Live Music

Theatre Beauty & The Beast Join Ballet Theatre UK with one of the most enchanting love stories of all time, Beauty and the Beast.

Where: The Core Theatre When: 30 Oct Info: thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk

Hairspray!

You can’t stop the beat in this big and bold musical about one girl’s dream to dance! Set in the early 1960s, Hairspray is the winner of 8 Tony Awards, featuring the loveable plus size teen Tracy Turnblad who just loves to dance!

Where: The Core Theatre When: 20 - 25 Nov Info: thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk

Sleeping Beauty Pantomime With daring duels, doting dragons, lavish sets and costumes and bucket loads of laughs, join The Core Theatre this Christmas for a brand new spin on an old yarn... a new era for pantomime in Solihull. “In a show full of love and laughter Little Wolf Entertainment’s Sleeping Beauty sets the standard for regional pantomime” (The British Theatre Guide) Where: The Core Theatre When: 14 Dec - 5 Jan Info: thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk

ABBA Tribute This ABBA tribute stage show is fully self-contained with superb live vocals and clever harmonies throughout, stunning replica costumes (up to seven costume changes per show) and a fantastic lightshow. Tickets include a seated 2 course meal, live show and dancing until 1am!

Where: Hogarths Hotel When: 13 Oct Info: hogarths.co.uk

The Rat Pack The Rat Pack is Back is Britain’s longest running tribute to Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jnr. Tickets include a seated 2 course meal, Live Show and Dancing until 1am Where: Hogarths Hotel When: 23 Nov Info: hogarths.co.uk The Bob Dylan Story The Bob Dylan Story is the stunning and definitive live concert celebration of rock music’s greatest icon. With some of the most memorable songs ever written, Bob Dylan created the soundtrack for 1960s America.

Where: The Core Theatre When: 26 Oct Info: thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk

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 SOLIHULL CENTRAL, OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2018

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FASHION

The first amber in

autumn

Get the look for the season!

When the leaves fall in autumn and dress the landscape in vibrant amber you’d do well to follow suit. Nature’s decay in preparation for winter is also one of its most stunning moments in the year, so it’s no sad thing to delve in and become a part of that beautiful scene. Play around with different shades like rust and auburn and try offsetting it against denim for a shabby chic autumn shine.

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MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2018

FASHION

Double denim do’s & don’ts DO:

DON’T:

Play around with shades of blue and other colours. Darker colours on the bottom and lighter shades on the top will flatter your figure.

Wear a patchwork quilt of denim shades like the famously disastrous Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake couple outfit.

DO: Accessorise with a splash of glitsy glamour, as

in sequins / jewels / brooches / heels..

DON’T: Wear denim accessories!

DO: Wear a baggy shirt in a double denim outfit.

DON’T: Wear baggy jeans in a double denim outfit.

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2018

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LEISURE & RETAIL

HHHHH

‘The most remarkable thing you are ever likely to see on a theatre stage.’

Birmingham Live

Opens Wed 10 Oct birminghamhippodrome.com 0844 338 5000 Calls cost 4.5p per min. plus your phone company’s access charge

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MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2018

iday

Westbourne Road Edgbaston B i r m i n gWWheeassttmbboouurrnBnee1 R5Rooaad3d TEERddggbbaassttoonn W e s tBBbiirormumriinnngeghhRaaomma d BB115E5 d33gTTbRaR s t o n Birmingham B15 3TR

ffrriiday day

ssunday s unday unday 2018 s u4th n day november 4th november 4th november 2018 2018 4th november 2018

f r i day 2018 26th october 26th 26th october october 2018 2018

tober 2018

wwwwww..bbiirrmmiinngghhaammssccaarreeggaarrddeennss..co m w w w . b i r m i n g h a m s c a r e g a r d e n s . co co m m

r m i n g h a m s c a r e g a r d e n s . co m 836 Yardley Wood Rd Kings Heath, B13 0JE

Open 5.30-11.00 Every day Ample FREE parking

Westb B

f r i day

26th october 2018 Nothing beats a

delicious warming curry

w www.sweetchillies.com ww.birminghams

Call or book a table NOW on 443 2737 “You will be tempted by an unrivalled fusion of authentic and imaginative dishes, each freshly prepared and presented by our Chef, using only the highest quality ingredients. Our approach to healthy eating demands that no artificial colours, stocks or additives are used in our dishes. Indeed, most of our cooking uses olive oil, and the spices we use are freshly ground in our kitchen.� Iqbal Hussain, proprietor

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SAUSAGE & CHESTNUT PASTA INGREDIENTS 1 tbsp olive oil 1 large onion finely chopped 450g sausages, meat squeezed out 200g chestnuts cooked and chopped 2 garlic cloves chopped 1 tsp rosemary 1 tsp fennel seed 1 glass full bodied red wine 500g carton passata 500g rigatoni or large pasta shells Small pack parsley, finely chopped Parmesan, to serve

Step 1

Heat the oil in a large frying pan, and fry the onion for 5 mins.

Once starting to soften, add the sausage meat and chestnuts, and fry for another 10-12 mins, breaking the meat up with a wooden spatula or spoon as you fry it. Keep the heat quite high and stir often.

Step 2

When the meat and chestnuts are golden brown, add the garlic, rosemary and fennel seeds, and cook for 2 mins more. Splash in the wine, let most of it boil away, then tip in the passata.

Cover and simmer the sauce for 10 mins while you boil the pasta in plenty of salted water, following pack instructions.

Step 3

Reserve a cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta well. Toss the pasta, 3 tbsp of the water, the ragu and most of the parsley together, then season to taste. Share between bowls, add a grinding of black pepper, the remaining parsley, then a handful of Parmesan shavings.

* Forageing Tip The fruits are carefully wrapped in a sharp spiky husk, and inside there are several nuts segmented together. The majority of the ones you find in the shops are imported due to the large size, but size is normally a compromise on flavour.

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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

CHESTNUT, BACON & PARSNIP SOUP

METHOD

Foraged food

4 rashers of bacon tbsp Olive oil 1 chopped onion 1 crushed garlic clove 6 peeled and chopped parsnips 1 chicken stock cube 400ml milk leaves from 4 thyme sprigs 200g cooked chopped chestnuts METHOD Step 1

Fry the rashers of bacon in the oil until crisp. Scoop out half the bacon and set aside until later.

Add the onion and garlic to the pan, stirring until tender, then add the parsnips. Cook for another 5 mins, then crumble in the chicken stock cube.

Step 2

Add the milk, 600ml water, the thyme and chestnuts. Cover and simmer for 30 mins until the parsnip is tender. Blitz with a hand blender, then season to taste.

Ladle into bowls and top with the reserved bacon.

FOOD & DRINK

EDUCATION

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

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 SOLIHULL CENTRAL, OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2018

19

HOME & GARDEN

Dimension

Landscape & 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

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

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

E: info@dimensiondriveways.co.uk W: www.dimensiondriveways.co.uk

Jon 07928 699 806

& TREEWORKS 01564 820 170 20

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2018

HOME & GARDEN

1.

4.

2.

3.

T

ired of looking out onto a desolate landscape throughout the winter months? Welcome to the evergreen garden! These hardy plants are capable of surviving the wide ranging weather this country faces, from blizzards blowing in from Russia, to Carribbean heat swept up across the Atlantic. Our evergreens are a testament to the natural beauty of this country and how that beauty can be found at any time of year.

Evergreens are not fussy plants, other than a bit of sculpting here and there the only thing you need to worry about is picking something beautiful. Here are our top 4 essential evergreens to get your imagination into gear...

1. Fargesia Murielae Considered one of the most beautiful bamboos in cultivation, Fargesia murielae is native to the mountains of central China. Its common name “umbrella bamboo” describes the graceful weeping habit of this plant.

4 evergreen Essential plants for your

garden

2. Daphne Odora Daphne odora is a species of flowering plant native to China, which later spread to Japan and Korea. It is known for its very fragrant, fleshy, pale-pink, tubular flowers, and for its glossy foliage. Though rare, it is known to fruit, producing red berries after flowering.

3. Itea Ilicifolia Itea ilicifolia, the holly-leaved sweet spire, is a species of flowering plant in the family Iteaceae, native to western China. It is an evergreen shrub growing to 10–16 ft tall by 10 ft broad, with fragrant drooping racemes of greenish-white flowers, 30 cm long,

in summer and autumn. It is hardy, though young plants require protection from dry winds.

4. Ivy Hedera, commonly called ivy is a species of evergreen climbing or ground-creeping woody plants in the family Araliaceae, native to western, central and southern Europe, Macaronesia, northwestern Africa and across central-southern Asia east to Japan and Taiwan. Most species of Ivy are evergreen, and while some may consider it to be a weed it has become known as a classic componant to traditional English homes.

Information source - wikipedia.org

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HOME & GARDEN

TRANSFORM YOUR CONSERVATORY IN JUST 1 DAY 2 FREE PANELS THIS MONTH

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Our conservatory is now our dining room in the garden.”

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MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2018

HOME & GARDEN

3 FEET OF SPACE w

hether you have a lot of space to work with in your home, or only a little, space saving ideas can always come in useful to maximise on what you have and help to banish clutter. Here are three space saving ideas that will only occupy 3 feet of space!

Hats & Coats With the best of intentions, hats and coats end up hung on door knobs, banisters, benches and, well... floors.

So while those old threadbare garments that never get worn obediently occupy a cupboard, those pesky ones that get worn regularly need an easy place to drop at the end of a long day, one that isn’t going to be such a mess. This is the idea behind artistic hooked wall hangings, there for the purpose of both storage and beauty.

Home cafe Creating little spaces in your home that deviate from the basic necessities gives your home something quirky and exciting. That cosy feeling you get when you slide into a soft chair at a secluded table in a cafe and have your morning coffee can be an experience you enjoy at home too, if you have three feet of spare space that is.

Shoes Have you ever bought a pair of shoes that were too glorious to be shut away in a dark cupboard? An elegant shelving unit near your front door could showcase the marvellous wonders you wear, so that you can enjoy them as a work of art on your wall before and after you strut them down the street.

Let us know about your space savvy home improvments on Facebook & Twitter!

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2018

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LEGAL & FINANCIAL

Lasting Powers of Attorney What Safeguards Should You Consider?

The benefits of putting a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) in place are compelling.

Without one, there will be no one vested with the formal legal authority to help you if you become unable to manage your own matters.

The media have recently identified cases of financial abuse where some attorneys have misused their power, and it is true to say that the number of investigations into abuse of power by the Ministry of Justice has increased in the last two years. However, these can be avoided by having the right safeguards in place.

Can My Attorney Abuse Their Power?

For example, many attorneys are unaware that they should keep annual accounts of the financial transactions they make. This seems sensible in theory. But in practice, most genuinely-motivated attorneys just get on with the job without stopping to consider

Is the Appointment of an Attorney Just a Minefield and Best Avoided?

The simple answer is “no”...

24

whether they should be keeping receipts or accounts of each and every transaction they make.

Another common stumbling block for attorneys is a genuine belief that that they are able to make gifts on behalf of the person they act for. In fact, this is rarely permitted under the standard terms of an LPA. Anything other than “customary”, for example Christmas or birthday gifts or, “occasional”, such as wedding gifts, are not permitted without specific approval from the Court of Protection.

Is the Appointment of an Attorney Just a Minefield and Best Avoided?

The simple answer is “no”, as long as your attorney is trustworthy and understands the breadth and scope of their powers. If they do, their appointment is likely to prove very beneficial. Clearly, the initial selection of a trustworthy attorney is key.

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2018

VWV.CO.UK

As advisors to both people putting LPAs in place and to attorneys, we see that many of the problems which are labelled “abuse” could be avoided if attorneys had a greater understanding of their powers and the correct way to use them. In the absence of this knowledge, it is remarkably easy for an attorney to make a genuine mistake.

LEGAL & FINANCIAL

How Can I Best Protect Myself Against Attorney Misunderstandings or Abuse?

Although many people opt to fill in an LPA form online, this process does not provide the advice that a qualified legal advisor can give, including the parameters that you can set for your own attorney to be bound by. For example, you can specify limitations on your attorney’s powers up to a certain sum or limit, or impose bars on certain actions such as the sale of your property.

Award-winning law firm VWV can guide you to ensure that there is an LPA in place which works effectively and safely for you. Please contact Rachael Armstrong at rarmstrong@vwv.co.uk or on 0121 227 3726.

Of course, someone may ultimately need to make these decisions, but large and important transactions could be referred to a nominated third party for approval, which provides just one important safeguard.

VWV - Award Winning Private Client Law Firm Instruct specialist lawyers who offer a personal service to meet your needs

• • • • • • • •

Wills & inheritance tax planning Lasting Powers of Attorney Estate administration Challenges to Wills Family, divorce & children Conveyancing Personal injury Family business

For further details, please contact us on 0121 227 3700 or at rarmstrong@vwv.co.uk @VWVPrivClient

“VWV’s superb team has a real emphasis on client care.” Legal 500 vwv.co.uk

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2018

25

LEGAL & FINANCIAL

Credit control is one of the most important features of a well run business...

...It’s your money after all.

UK Central Credit Management Do you have Outstanding Invoices?

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call Paulette and Cathrina today on

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• Invoice Preparation • Invoice Chasing – We make sure you get paid on time • Chase Over Due and Old Invoices • Proactive calls and emails to customers to make sure there are no queries with the invoices • Issue regular monthly statements to your customers • Confirm payment terms to reduce payment delays • Bookkeeping service

Introduce yourself?

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MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2018

26

Time to end the blame game?

I

n July the Supreme Court dismissed Mrs Tini Owen’s Appeal, one of the most significant divorce cases to be heard in recent years.

In many ways the case was not exceptional. Mr and Mrs Owens, aged 80 and 68 respectively, married in 1978, had built a prosperous business together, bought property and had children, finally separating in February 2015.

Mrs Owens issued her divorce petition on the basis of her husband’s unreasonable behaviour. What is unusual about the case is that her petition for divorce was contested by her husband.

Sian Kenkre, a specialist divorce and family law solicitor at The Wilkes Partnership comments, “It is incredibly rare for divorce petitions to be defended, even rarer to reach a contested final hearing, something which only happens in 1% of cases.

“Under our present divorce law in England and Wales you must prove that your spouse has committed adultery or their behaviour has

become so unreasonable that the marriage has broken down. Alternatively, it is necessary to wait for 2 years by agreement or 5 years if contested.

“In this case the Supreme Court ruled, albeit very reluctantly, that Mrs Owens had not met the legal test and denied her divorce. The Judges have invited Parliament to consider law reform, something that has not taken place for 50 years.

“For many years there have been calls for a ‘no fault’ divorce to offer an additional route to divorce and shift the focus of proving blame to focus on the children and financial settlements.

“Mrs Owens cannot divorce until 2020, remaining unhappily married to her husband. The fear many family lawyers have from this case is that divorce petitioners will feel the need to ‘beef up’ their divorce petitions which leads to more conflict.

“Many family lawyers are members of Resolution, an organisation committed to adopting a constructive

and conciliatory approach to family law matters. Like many, I believe that an amicable divorce is better for individuals and families. Dame Butler Sloss’s Private Members Bill requires the government to review present divorce laws and consider an alternative model for divorce that would take subjectivity or blame out of divorce and require one or both parties to register the breakdown of the marriage followed by a nine month cooling off period. This would arguably allow couples and families to use the time to focus on making positive arrangements, both practical and financial, to enable them to move forward with dignity.”

If you need advice on divorce matters contact Sian Kenkre at The Wilkes Partnership skenkre@wilkes.co.uk The Wilkes Partnership LLP Stanton House, 54 Stratford Road Shirley, Solihull, B90 3LS

0121 733 8000 / www.wilkes.co.uk

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2018

27

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)

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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 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 employees.

DBS certified. hazelbuller.co.uk Tel: 07847 557765

ting

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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swanp

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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

NEC’s Festive Gift Fair, 15 - 18 Nov Now in its 23rd fabulous year, the Fair continues to be one of the most popular Christmas Shopping events in the UK.

Smart Works Birmingham Flash Climbing is hiring!

Climbing Centre Team Member – Full time / Part Time - Offering contracted hours, industry standard pay and ongoing skills development opportunities, plus statutory holidays and benefits.

Flash Climbing are a growing Bouldering-only centre based in Solihull, West Midlands. They offer employees a friendly working atmosphere, in a brilliant bouldering facility with industry standard pay and benefits.

The Company: Flash Climbing Centre, has been open since May 2018 and is known for the great care it takes with clients and employees alike.

The owners and Directors are all climbers themselves or parents of climbers and so totally understand what makes a great Bouldering facility and are committed to making Flash the best center possible.

Smart Works Birmingham, a charity that supports women back into work in the region through dressing and interview coaching services, has had a very busy summer with new trustees joining the Board and a relocation to Birmingham city centre, making it easier for clients to access their services.

The new centre is within the long established, Birmingham Voluntary Service Council building, (BVSC Building) a centre of voluntary action that is home to a number of other charities on Digbeth high street and just a few step from Selfridges and The Bull Ring.

For more info visit smartworks. org

As well as finding great gifts for your loved ones, treats for yourself and all your sparkling Christmas essentials, you’re sure to have a fun packed day!

The fair will be bursting at the seams with a colourful eclectic mix of unusual stocking fillers and presents, traditional gifts, festive food and great home decorations.

With 325+ stalls all under one roof, the variety is huge, with clever gift ideas for all ages and tastes... and lots of special show offers! There’s even a Present Creche to drop off your full bags.

The festive athmosphere is always fantastic and there’s even more this year with icicle lighting throughout the hall and a NEW Victorian bandstand where LIVE bands will take centre stage.

While browsing the stalls let the music get you into that Christmassy mood and be entertained

by Santa himself, stilt walkers and pantomime characters.

Buy tickets at: festivegiftfair.co.uk

The Position: Looking for an experienced full-time / part-time member of Climbing Centre staff.

Located 20 minutes’ walk from Solihull train station and on 3 main line bus routes.

Find out more at: ukclimbing.com

MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2018

29

Local Business Directory

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

Arts Centre

mac Birmingham

Bike Shop

Bike Pro Racing

4 11

Gardens Healthcare Services Restaurant

Chauffeur Services

Smart Alarm Systems

11

Kingsmarque

22

Credit Control

UK Central Credit Management

Firplace Showroom

MD Services

Gardening & Landscaping

Betel UK Garden Treeworks Central Driveways

Sweet Chillies

17

Smart Install Limited 32

Solicitor

Conservatory Insulation Green Space Ltd

9

Midland Hand Clinic

Care Home

Pebble Mill Care Home 10

17

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

26 2

The Wilkes Partnership 27 Veale Wasbrough Vizards LLP

24/25

Theatre

Birmingham Hippodrome

Windows & Doors

Cloudy2Clear

16 31

20

28

Dimension Driveways & Landscapes JH Garden & Property Services

20 20

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, OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2018

HOME & GARDEN advertorial

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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?

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

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MY SOLIHULL CENTRAL, OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 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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