Asian World March 2022

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Issue 163

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VAUXHALL TO BECOME PURELY ELECTRIC IN RECORD V TIME

auxhall is becoming a purely electric brand. By 2028, Vauxhall will have switched its entire product line-up to purely electric vehicles – seven years ahead of the UK Govenrment deadline..... ...continued on patge 6

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Asian World’s – Hot Picks LOCAL

GLOBAL

LOCATIONS OF CITY’S COVID-19 MEMORIAL GARDENS

UK GOVT AGAINST fuel supply TO BURMESE MILITARY

NATWEST SITARIST ANNOUNCES ROOPA NEW SIKH PANESAR’S NETWORK NEW COMMITTEE COMMISSION

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he locations of ten COVID-19 memorial community gardens across Birmingham have been announced by the city council...

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BUSINESS

urma Campaign UK welcomed new British government advice on business risk in Burma which warns British companies not to be involved in the supply...

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he Natwest Group Employee Led Network undertakes to promote Diversity & Inclusion within the Bank. The Sikh Network...

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SPORTS

QUEEN’S BATON RELAY ARRIVES IN DUBAI

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he University of Birmingham Dubai today welcomed the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games Queen’s Baton Relay...

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Editor’s Note Hello readers and welcome back to the 154th edition of Asian World Newspaper! We hope that you and your loved ones are healthy and safe from the claws of the deadly pandemic, Covid-19. Ramadan 2021 is approaching soon and we understand that some of you may not be able to spend this holy month with your loved ones!

To cheer you up, we thought we should share some exciting news stories and something totally different to the usual covid-19 updates.

This month we focus on the protests that are happening in India and Bangladesh, turn to our global section to read the latest updates. We are also focusing on keeping a healthy lifestyle, especially as the lockdown has made some of us lazy! Turn to our health section to find out how you can keep a healthy lifestyle during lockdown. If you are somebody that loves watching movies on Amazon prime, then visit our glam section to see some of the new upcoming film releases. Also, don’t forget to look at our wrap edition by the wonderful Al Khair Foundation Charity, where you can see some of

the excellent work done by the charity itself. As you know the travel industry has faced many distributions due to the pandemic, why not read all about this in our travel section. Of course, this month we have provided some information on what to eat during Ramadan to ensure that we are looking after our health while we fast.

Whichever section you turn to, there is a story that is suitable for everyone, whether you are into sports, business, or you just like to read the news. So, pick up a copy of the West Midlands’s No.1 South Asian paper and make sure you leave no page unturned. Take a look at the rest of this issue NOW! And remember to stay safe and stay alert. For the latest and most exclusive advertisement offers for 2021, please don’t hesitate to Contact us on 0121 771 4545 or email: sales@asianworldnews. co.uk Have a great read!

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BIRMINGHAM CITY UNIVERSITY CHANCELLOR SIR LENNY HENRY AND COLDPLAY JOIN FORCES TO FUND KEY RESEARCH INTO MEDIA DIVERSITY

The announcement that popular BBC television series MasterChef is relocating to Birmingham has been hailed as a boost for long-standing plans to regenerate the Digbeth area of the city.

Paul Kitson, Strategic Director for Place, Prosperity and Sustainability at Birmingham City Council, said the move complemented work already being undertaken via the council’s Our Future City Plan.

Paul said: “Digbeth is a fantastic part of our great city, boldly showcasing everything great about our past, present and future – it really is one of the leading creative quarters, not just in the UK, but internationally.

“Everyone in the city and wider West Midlands is keen to see institutions like the BBC expand their footprint locally, to ensure their output is truly representative of the communities they serve.

“We have the skills, the talent and are developing the infrastructure to enable this to happen – and the MasterChef relocation is an endorsement of everything that partners in the city are doing.

“To enable this announcement, there

has been a spirit of co-operation and a genuine shared purpose from partners including the likes of the WMCA and Homes England. We look forward to continuing this close working to make this project and other initiatives a big success for the city, as there is a growing confidence there will be plenty more to come.”

Home to five Michelin-starred restaurants, a bustling street food scene, the renowned Balti Triangle and a host of well-regarded independents, the city’s food sector is playing an increasingly important role in Birmingham’s economy.

Paul added: “Although we have the creative and culinary talent here that makes the MasterChef move a perfect partnership for Birmingham and the BBC, there is much we can gain in the future.

“We want to use projects like this to develop home-grown talent and skills, so the relocation of this show actually becomes a real investment by the BBC in this city.

“There will also be positives for the supply chain, and this will open doors for local innovation and entrepreneurism.

We are all looking forward to seeing how this partnership unfolds.”

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March 2022

HAVE A RAMADAN TO REMEMBER WITH ASDA

This year, Asda are preparing to celebrate their biggest Ramadan yet with more great deals, more of your favourite products, and an easier shopping experience than ever. As we can finally celebrate Sehris and Iftars together again, look no further than Asda’s extensive and affordable selection of all your favourite brands to help you break your fast hassle-free and create a Ramadan to remember Asda are making it easier than ever for customers to find what they need, with a dedicated Ramadan aisle in more stores than ever before in key areas across the country such as Gloucester and Wembley. A further 122 locations will also have their own seasonal displays, gathering all your most trusted brands and reliable products in one easy-to-shop place, both in your local Asda store and online.

Whether you’re looking for Halal products, tinned ingredients, festive gifts, or even cookware, look no further.

You’ll be able to pick up all your favourite Laila ingredients in one easy trip, like 1kg Ginger Garlic Paste for £2 and 6x 850g cans of Mango Pulp for £1.65, as well as 400g of Coconut Milk for only 60p. It’ll be simple to stock your cupboards, too, with KTC’s 400g tins of Chopped Tomatoes, Plum Tomatoes, and Chickpeas all available at 5 for £1.50. With 10kg of Elephant Atta Medium available for £5.50 and a 10kg bag of Salaam Basmati Rice for just £10, it’ll be

quick and easy to get your kitchen Ramadan ready in just one Asda shop.

Asda are excited to help you celebrate your Ramadan by making it as affordable and convenient as possible for you to fill your cupboards with all your favourite treats and bulk ingredients before the fast begins. Head to your nearest Asda now to explore our range or shop online HERE to browse our essential Ramadan supplies from anywhere.

BIRMINGHAM CITY COUNCIL CELEBRATES NATIONAL EMPTY HOMES WEEK

Each year National Empty Homes Week, which this year runs from Monday 28 February until Sunday 6 March, highlights the need to bring empty homes back into use and tackle their negative impact on neighbourhoods.

In 2020/2021 The Empty Property Team at Birmingham City Council brought 305 homes back into residential use despite the Covid – 19 Pandemic. From April 2021 to January 2022 the team brought an additional 220 homes back into use.

This has been achieved through collaborative work with owners and the use of a variety of enforcement measures.

During this National Empty Homes Week, the Empty Property Team will be using their twitter account @bccemptyhomes and other social media to highlight the work they carry out.

There will be examples of our enforcement work to improve the exterior of properties following a statutory notice to do the work having expired. We will also share examples of long-term empty properties which we have now been returned back into residential use through our intervention and with the co-operation of owners.

If anyone wishes to report an empty property to the team, they can email emptyproperty@birmingham.gov.uk or telephone 0121 303 7978 Paul Lankester, Interim Assistant Director of Regulation and Enforcement said “The work carried out by the Empty Property Team in bringing houses back into use is vital to the City Council’s aims to maintain sustainable communities and neighbourhoods. It also has the additional benefit of providing some more housing to meet the needs of our citizens.”

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March 2022

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March 2022

VAUXHALL TO BECOME PURELY ELECTRIC IN RECORD TIME

Front Page Story Cont’d...

Today, Vauxhall already offers a comprehensive selection of electrified models – there are ten electrified models available to order, from the Corsa-e supermini to the large Movano-e van. A further battery-electric model will follow by mid-decade in a new interpretation of the Manta.

And the successors of the Vauxhall

PUNJABI MUSIC AND POETRY SUPERSTAR IN EXCLUSIVE VISIT TO UK UNIVERSITY

Crossland and Vauxhall Insignia will also be electric.

Vauxhall is on a mission to electrify Britain and provide vehicles that perfectly meet UK motorists’ needs.

In the near future, this will include driving ranges of between 310 miles (500km) and 497 miles (800km) and a best-in-class rapid-charging capability of 20 miles (32km) per minute.

Ten electrified Vauxhall models are already available in 2022: Passenger Cars

Light Commercial Vehicles

»» Corsa-e

»» Combo-e

»» Mokka-e

»» Vivaro-e

»» Astra Plug-in HYBRID-e

»» Movano-e

»» Astra Sport Tourer Plug-in HYBRID-e »» Grandland Plug-in HYBRID-e »» Combo-e Life »» Vivaro-e Life

The All-New Astra, already available with plug-in hybrid technology, will be available as a fully electric version from 2023 in both hatch (Astra-e) and estate (Astra-e Sport Tourer) guises.

The Manta to return: New interpretation with electric drive By mid-decade, Vauxhall will reinvent the Manta as a purely electric car. A Manta, befitting the times we live in – emissions-free, versatile and a car that will appeal to the heart and mind. New Manta is set to be a fascinating and astoundingly spacious new interpretation of a classic.

Production to start in 2025: New Gigafactory to supply Vauxhall Together with partners Total/Saft,

Stellantis and Vauxhall-Opel founded the “Automotive Cells Company” (ACC). A few months ago, MercedesBenz joined this joint venture. With this partnership, the parties are creating a world-class player in the field of developing and producing high-performance batteries for the automotive industry. In addition, the partners announced that they would increase ACC’s industrial capacity in Kaiserslautern, Germany, to up to 32 GWh. This will see a true gigafactory for modern battery cell production created in a region that is a traditional location for component and engine production.

Vauxhall line-up already includes twelve electrified versions »» Entire Light Commercial Vehicle line-up already available as fully electric »» Electrified version of each model by 2024 »» Vauxhall will be 100% pure electric – cars and vans – from 2028 »» Vauxhall Crossland and Insignia successors also battery-electric »» New Vauxhall Manta with purely electric drive by mid-decade »» Astra-e and Astra-e Sport Tourer to be available from 2023 »» Vauxhall Vivaro-e HYDROGEN with fuel cell technology in trials and to follow in UK »» Production of high-performance batteries in new ACC gigafactory from 2025

Acclaimed Indian singer, musician, actor and poet Sartinder Sartaaj visited Birmingham City University to meet and speak with staff and students ahead of a sold out UK tour.

Following a tour of the £57m state-ofthe-art Royal Birmingham Conservatoire with Interim Principal Dr Shirley Thompson, the Sufi superstar took part in a special Q&A session with staff and students from the Conservatoire and School of Media along with guests from across the University and the worlds of politics, banking and music.

Led by Brit Asia TV presenter Raj Shoker and Birmingham City University music industries student Corinne Stewart, the session also featured a screening of Sartaaj’s latest music video.

Released to accompany new song ‘Naadan Jehi Aas’, the first ever music video to be filmed at Royal Albert Hall in its 150-year history features the British-Indian model and Vitiligo awareness campaigner Jasroop Singh and has amassed over 1.5million views since its release on Friday 25 February.

Satinder Sartaaj’s visit formed part of

Birmingham City University’s ongoing work to further develop cultural, business, political and academic links with India.

Corinne Stewart, in her second year of a three-year music industries degree at Birmingham School of Media, said, “Meeting Satinder Sartaaj was a surreal and inspiring experience. Someone at his level of stardom was so humble and gracious when answering my questions which made me feel extremely comfortable as this was my first in person interview.

“Satinder’s in-depth answers to my questions really helped me to understand him and how he works as a musician, and you can tell he really cares about the songs and poetry he produces. Satinder inspired to me to really hone my journalistic work and write about topics I am passionate about. His new song ‘Nadan Jehi Aas’ which embraces all types of beauty and raises awareness of the skin condition, Vitiligo, will really resonate with people.”

Satinder Sartaaj, earned a five-year vocal and instrumental diploma at Sangeet Vishard in Jalandhar. Satinder then

moved to Chandigarh to pursue his Masters in Musical and M.Phil. as well as a PhD in Sufi music at Punjab University.

After teaching for a number of years, Sartaaj began a career as a singer, songwriter and poet, making a name for himself in the Punjabi music and film industries.

He has contributed vocals for a number of Bollywood films and made his screen debut as Maharaja Duleep Singh in ‘The Black Prince’ in 2017.

His collaborations with Nelly Furtado, Talib Kweli, and other American music stars combined with his collaboration with Indian cinema queen Shabana Azmi in film have helped propel the performer to stardom.

Sartaaj’s achievements with the United Nations to help raise funds for their fight against Human Trafficking saw him work alongside cultural royalty like A.R.Rahman, Sonu Nigam, Quincy Jones, and President Jimmy Carter.

The artist has long established links with Birmingham, having released music through city bhangra music label Moviebox, and promotion via Brit Asia TV.

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STUDENTS DISH OUT OVER 500 FREE MEALS AS PART OF ANNUAL SIKH CELEBRATION President of Birmingham City University’s Sikh Society, Rajveer Singh, said:

“

Our Sikh Society were delighted to hold our fifth Langar on Campus Event.

It is always a joy to welcome people of all backgrounds to this communal celebration of oneness and equality, but this year’s event was particularly poignant as it is the first time we have gathered in such numbers since the outbreak of the COVID pandemic. We sincerely hope everyone enjoyed the event as much as we did.

“

Students in Birmingham served up more than 500 free meals as part of an important Sikh tradition earlier this week.

Birmingham City University Students’ Union and its Sikh Society hosted the ‘Langar on Campus’ in the Atrium at Millennium Point on Tuesday 22 February between 10am and 4pm.

‘Langar’, meaning kitchen in Punjabi, is an important institution in Sikhism, where free food is offered to anyone who attends. ‘Langar on Campus’ is an event organised by Sikh students in universities all across the world, where students, staff and community members from all backgrounds come together and eat. Everyone who can sits on a carpet together at the same level – signifying equality – and only vegetarian food is served so no one is excluded.

This was the fifth time a largescale langar has been held at Birmingham City University and the first in over two years since the outbreak of the pandemic. But the celebration proved as popular as ever with over 500 people from across the city converging on the University’s city centre campus to enjoy a hot meal and gain a greater insight into the Sikh faith.

Langar originated in 15th century Punjab by Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism and the first of the 10 Sikh Gurus. It was designed to uphold the principle of equality as a sovereign kitchen where everyone eats together regardless of religion, caste, colour, creed, age, gender or social status; a revolutionary concept in the caste-ordered society of India at that time.

Often, langars will be attached to gurdwaras, a place of worship for Sikhs. Traditionally, everyone shares the tasks of preparation, cooking, serving and cleaning in

the langar, and food is donated from members of the local community.

One of the most famous langars is the kitchen at the Golden Temple in Amritsar, India, which provides food for upwards of 100,000 people during religious holidays and weekends.

BIRMINGHAM CITY UNIVERSITY CHANCELLOR SIR LENNY HENRY AND COLDPLAY JOIN FORCES TO FUND KEY RESEARCH INTO MEDIA DIVERSITY

Birmingham City University Chancellor Sir Lenny Henry has joined forces with global chart-topping band Coldplay to raise funds to improve diversity and representation across UK media.

Sir Lenny is offering the public a chance to enter a ‘Crowdfunder’ prize draw to win a Fender guitar previously owned and signed by all Coldplay bandmembers, with the funds raised set to enable the delivery of new research, grants and action via Birmingham City University’s Sir Lenny Henry Centre for Media Diversity.

Since its inception almost two years ago, Birmingham City University has funded nine key research projects through its Sir Lenny Henry Centre for Media Diversity, including a collaboration with Cardiff University and work with Channel 4. The Centre has published important research findings, examining the portrayal of Black people in UK documentaries, the use of the term BAME in broadcast media, and how entertainment trade unions should provide better support for their members of colour. It carries out an array of independent activities including offering Practitioner Investigating Media Industry Diversity grants to industry professionals, while it aims to further expand its work to ensure the media better reflects UK society.

Birmingham City University Chancellor Sir Lenny Henry said: “Through our Centre we have already made great strides in ensuring we shine a

light on representation in the media and hear from the many unheard voices in this industry.

“We want our work to be even more

impactful to ensure it delivers the real change that is required to shape our media landscape for years to come, bringing new opportunities and tangible shifts across the sector.

“Media diversity matters to all of us, in shaping who tells our stories, which stories are told, and the career pathways open to people from underrepresented communities. That is why I am launching this fund-raising initiative, with the help of Coldplay, to get support in helping us provide even more grants and change our industry for the better.”

Visiting Professor Marcus Ryder, Head of External Consultancies at Birmingham City University’s Sir Lenny Henry Centre for Media Diversity, added: “Having worked in the TV industry for over 25 years, including campaigning for more media diversity and providing oral evidence to both Parliamentary select committees and House of Lords select committees, I believe passionately in the quality research we are carrying out and look forward to our future impact effecting real change.”

Through the Centre, all money raised through the Crowdfunder initiative will be used to provide grants for research and activity which promotes media diversity both in front of, and behind, the camera.

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UK TO RECRUIT MORE FIRE ENGINEERING APPRENTICES IN WAKE OF GRENFELL AND CLADDING RECOMMENDATIONS A Birmingham firefighter, one of the first fire engineering apprenticeship students in the country, speaks to the UK Minister for Building Safety and Fire as course gets underway A fire engineering degree apprenticeship – the first of its kind in the UK – is growing its student and employer base to meet national demand for fire engineers and in line with new Government legislation.

The part-time Higher-Level Degree Apprenticeship in Fire Engineering, offered by Birmingham City University and developed in partnership between the National Fire Chiefs Council and the UK’s commercial fire engineering industrial sector, is a response to new Government legislation and recommendations and requirements for a workforce to address the shortfall.

The public inquiry and the investigations into the dreadful loss of life at Grenfell in 2017 identified a massive competency gap and an opportunity for people to acquire new skills in fire engineering across the UK, with the Government currently progressing a new Fire Safety Bill and Building Safety Bill through Parliament.

One of the UK’s first fire engineering apprentices received a boost to his studies after being invited to join a recent virtual call with Minister of State for Building Safety and Fire Lord Ste-

phen Greenhalgh.

David Cooper, a firefighter based at West Midlands Fire Service’s Northfield station in South Birmingham discussed his career journey so far with the Minister, and how the apprenticeship programme has helped him to realise his career goals.

David said, ‘It has been a brilliant journey for me so far – and to speak

with the Minister early in the course was a great experience. We’re grateful that he gave his time to find out more about our work and to share encouragement. As with any challenge, I’d say to anyone considering this apprenticeship to grasp the opportunity with both hands.”

The degree course is ideally suited to those currently working in the Fire

and Rescue Service and in Fire Engineering consultancies, works to a national standard and employers can use the Apprentice Levy Fund to pay for the course, with students combining full-time employment with four years of part time study to achieve a formal qualification.

Area Commander Steve Ball, of West Midlands Fire Service, said, “We’re

proud to be partnering with Birmingham City University for this apprenticeship degree opportunity. West Midlands Fire Service is committed to reducing risk across our communities, and this includes a focus on the built environment. We wish Firefighter Cooper and his fellow students every success on their fire engineering journeys.”

Mike Leonard, Visiting Professor of Manufacturing and Construction at Birmingham City University, said, “Birmingham City University has recognised the need to close the competence gap by becoming the first UK university to offer the Fire Engineering Degree Apprenticeship, allowing new entrants and experienced professionals to future develop their skills.

“The majority of the first intake are mature students, who can often draw on in-depth experience and overlay this with the learning from the course to become more rounded and qualified professionals.

“Birmingham City University is now actively processing applications for the January 2023 intake of the Fire Engineering Apprenticeship Degree, heavily investing in building the team and in new lab facilities, partnering with other organisations to enrich the learning experience and developing opportunities for Masters and PhD students.”

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GLOBAL HAITI EARTHQUAKE SURVIVORS CAN REBUILD THEIR LIVES AND ACCESS SAFE DRINKING WATER THANKS TO FREEMASONS Hundreds of families badly affected by the recent earthquake in Haiti will be able to will be able to recover from the tragedy and access clean, safe drinking water thanks to a grant of £25,000 from the Freemasons to the Red Cross.

Following the earthquake, at least 650,000 people across Haiti are in need of emergency humanitarian assistance. The structural devastation has been enormous, especially in the cities of Jérémie and Les Cayes on the southern peninsula of the country, where around 53,000 homes have been destroyed and a further 77,000 damaged, along with severe damage to major infrastructure like roads and bridges.

Extensive damage to health facilities and worsening access to safe water and sanitation from mudslides and flooding has exacerbated the crisis.

Freemasonry, through the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) and Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF), is responding to the emergency by providing support to the Red Cross Movement’s work such as distributing relief goods, ensuring good water, sanitation and hygiene to prevent the outbreak of diseases as well as providing access to healthcare to those most in need.

The earthquake was centred 12km northeast of the town of Saint-Louis du Sud. Registering a magnitude of 7.2. Tremors were felt hundreds of kilometres away in Jamaica and Cuba. It is the strongest earthquake to hit the country since 2010, when a 7.0 magnitude earth-

quake devastated the capital city of Port-au-Prince, and the third major earthquake to hit the country in the past decade.

Alongside improving access to clean water, the Red Cross has reached over 40,000 people with blankets, tarpaulins, kitchen kits and hygiene kits to provide essential shelter and hygiene support.

The grant comes through the Masonic Charitable Foundation, which is funded by Freemasons, their families and friends, from across England and Wales.

Luke Tredget, Head of Emergencies, Surge and Technical Advisory at the Red Cross, said: “We’re very grateful to the Freemasons for this generous grant which makes a major contribution to the Red Cross relief effort in Haiti.

“Providing clean water is one of the absolutely essential steps to prevent the spread of cholera and other deadly water-borne disease, which can have a devastating effect, especially on children and other vulnerable people.”

Les Hutchinson, Chief Executive of the Masonic Charitable Foundation, said: “I’m very pleased we’ve been able to help the Red Cross with their vital work in Haiti. Tens of thousands of people are in desperate need of help and there’s nothing more important than clean water after a disaster like this. I’m proud the Freemasons are keeping up our proud record of helping people around the world when disaster strikes.”

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March 2022

UK-INDIA INNOVATION CENTRE KICKSTARTS SUSTAINABLE COOLING JOURNEY University of Birmingham experts are joining the Government of Telangana State to create a ‘hot spot’ for sustainable cooling innovation – to accelerate the deployment of energy-efficient refrigeration for food and vaccine supply chains across India.

The Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Cooling and Cold-Chain will conduct state-of-the-art applied research in food and vaccine distribution, supporting the roll-out of affordable, energy resilient, low emission cold-chain systems in India.

Connecting British and Indian experts with investors, agri-food businesses, farmer co-operatives, and energy or logistics providers, the Centre will provide capacity building and training. An innovation hub and technology testing/demonstration facility is planned.

The partnership builds on the Africa Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Cooling and Cold Chain (ACES) and will be led by University of Birmingham and UN Environment Programme’s United for Efficiency (UNEP U4E) with technical assistance funding from the UK Government’s Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra).

ACES’ ‘hub-and-spoke’ design will be adapted for operations in India – enhancing research and development capacity through a network of Specialized Outreach and Knowledge Establishments (SPOKEs) deploying technologies and innovative business models in rural communities.

Professor Robin Mason, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (International) at the University of Birmingham and Jayesh Ranjan IAS, Principal Secretary to Government & Commissioner Industrial Promotion, Industries & Commerce Department Government of Telangana signed a Memorandum of Understanding today in an online ceremony.

The ceremony was also attended by Lord Karan Bilimoria, Chancellor at the University of Birmingham and Rajender Reddy G, Director Logistics, Nodal Officer PM Gatishakti, Industries & Commerce Department Government of Telangana and Dipankar Chakraborty, University of Birmingham India Institute Director.

Jayesh Ranjan said: “Telangana and Hy-

derabad are well-connected at the heart of India and our businesses rely on efficient cold-chain logistics. The Centre of Excellence will connect Indian and British experts, investors and businesses to support the achievement of affordable, energy resilient, low emission coldchain systems in India. This facility will provide better logistics and sustainable solutions for the produce get to market quickly and efficiently. I assure full support from the Government of Telangana in making this happen.”

The University of Birmingham will provide research expertise and involve UK technology experts and industry in establishing the Centre of Excellence. The State Government of Telangana plans to provide land and infrastructure, staff and

resources, as well as a financial contribution towards establishing, operating and maintaining the Centre.

Toby Peters, Professor of Cold Economy at the University of Birmingham, said: “Working with Telangana will allow us to really expand the work across sustainable cold-chains for food and vaccines, localising solutions to the environment in Telangana with the skills and business models needed to l help accelerate the transition to sustainable cooling – regionally and nationally.”

The partnership aims to set up a Solutions Development Laboratory, Solutions Demonstration Centre, model pack-house and Community Cooling Hub. The SPOKEs will deliver upskilling and training programmes for farmers

and local agri-businesses, agri-start-ups and entrepreneurs, equipment technicians and researchers.

Steve Cowperthwaite, Head of International Stratospheric Ozone and Fluorinated Greenhouse Gases, Defra, commented: “Building on the groundbreaking work in Africa we are delivering, this partnership will support real opportunities for change that can boost climate friendly, sustainable cold chains in India – offering real hope for progress in reducing food waste while simultaneously cutting emissions.”

UK Technical Collaboration will be led by the Centre of Sustainable Cooling (University of Birmingham) supported by its partners – Cranfield, London South Bank and Heriot-Watt Universities and UN U4E. Andrew Fleming, British Deputy High Commissioner to Andhra Pradesh & Telangana said: “I am delighted by the pace the establishment of this Centre of Excellence is coming to fruition and excited for the positive benefits it stands to bring both the agriculture and health sectors. This will benefit both Telugu speaking states and the wider nation as some of the sharpest innovators from UK and India are connected in an area that will improve people’s lives in the same way as a sister facility in Kigali, Rwanda has begun to do across the African continent.”

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March 2022

HOW BIRMINGHAM CAN HELP MAKE A DIFFERENCE TO THOSE FLEEING UKRAINE

As people around the world watch what’s happening in Ukraine, Birmingham’s communities are coming together to support international appeals and efforts to help those fleeing war.

One of the best ways to help is by donating money via trusted charities and aid organisations – it can reach the areas and organisations that need it much quicker than lorries that have to travel thousands of miles to deliver donated goods.

Birmingham City Council is recommending that any citizens or council staff who wish to support the aid effort make their donations through the following routes: Councillor Ian Ward said: “We are witnessing the most serious military conflict in Europe and the biggest humanitarian crisis since the Second World War. Russia’s unprovoked attack against Ukraine has shocked the world and the human cost of the conflict is evident to see – over two million people have been displaced from their homes.

“For us here in the UK, we see the horrors of war via our TV screens but for those in Ukraine or refugees on the borders of neighbouring coun-

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just as they supported those fleeing Afghanistan and Syria.

“We are actively working with our local Ukrainian community and must not forget our citizens of Russian heritage that will be looking on in horror at what is happening in Ukraine and Russia today.

“Birmingham is a proud, global city that has been built upon the values of compassion, justice, freedom and democracy. By supporting the humanitarian effort, together, we can send a clear message, that in even in the face of overwhelming aggression we will not surrender those values or abandon those that are seeking to defend them.”

Birmingham is proud to be a City of Sanctuary and has a long history of welcoming asylum seekers, refugees and migrants fleeing war and persecution to start new lives in the UK. The Government is yet to announce details of a Ukrainians resettlement scheme, so for now the need for support is financial, to ensure aid can get to where it’s needed most as quickly as possible.

tries – this is their reality. I know that times are difficult for many people

across the city with the cost of living rising on a daily basis – but I would

urge people to support the DEC campaign in whatever way that they can,

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March 2022

BUSINESS

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‘HAVE YOU GOT THE MESSAGE?’ SECRETARY OF STATE FOR LEVELLING ASKS GEM, AS MOBILE PHONE UP VISITS TYSELEY ENERGY PARK LAW UPDATE APPROACHES

Road safety and breakdown organisation GEM Motoring Assist is warning drivers that updated mobile phone laws will come into force this month*.

The new rules ban drivers from using their phones to take photos or videos, play games or scroll through music playlists.

It is already against the law to use a hand-held device to send a text or make a call while driving unless it’s an emergency.

It is also illegal to use a phone whilst stationary in traffic or at traffic lights, as this still counts as ‘driving’, according to a spokesperson at GEM Motoring Assist.

“We know that using a mobile phone whilst driving is an extremely dangerous action which puts not only the offenders at risk, but anyone who happens to be in or near their vehicle.

“The updated law removes any opportunity to interpret what’s allowed and what’s not. If you’re holding a phone while driving – and that includes when you’re stopped at lights or in a queue – you can be prosecuted.

“That’s why we want to be sure every driver gets the message: any activity involving a mobile phone at the wheel is a potentially fatal distraction. So if you’re tempted to pick the phone up on a journey, please think again. Do the responsible thing and don’t risk your own life – or someone else’s – by selfishly using a hand-held phone while driving.”

GEM has a number of simple tips regarding mobile phones and driving: 1 You’re allowed to use a mobile phone when you are safely parked, with the engine off and the handbrake on.

2 Please do not pick up your phone in any other driving situation, including when you’re stationary at traffic lights or queueing in traffic.

3 The only exception to this is if it’s an emergency and it would be unsafe or impractical to stop, in which case you may call 999.

4 Don’t assume that using a hands-free kit means you have dealt with the risk. You are still allowing yourself to be distracted from the task of safe driving,

and you could still be prosecuted for not being in control (an offence that carries a £100 fine and three penalty points).

5 Take a few minutes before a journey to make important calls or to check voice messages and emails. Work together with friends, family, colleagues and work contacts to remove the expectation that we should all be available, all the time.

6 Plan journeys to build in breaks from driving, where you can call, text or email or interact with social media in a safe environment.

Mobile phones and the law Specific mobile phone driving laws were introduced in December 2003 which saw motorists handed a £60 fine for an offence before rising to £100 in 2013.

Fines increased to £200 and penalty points endorsements doubled in 2017, to act as a further deterrent. *The updated law comes into force on Saturday 25 March 2022.

Rt Hon Michael Gove MP, Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities and Minister for Intergovernmental Relations visited the Birmingham Energy Innovation Centre (BEIC) at Tyseley Energy Park (TEP).

Led by the Provost Professor Tim Jones and supported by the Birmingham Energy Institute, Mr Gove was able to discover how the collaboration between the City, University of Birmingham and TEP is supporting the levelling up opportunities created by their combined efforts to accelerate the transition to

net zero.

Professor Martin Freer, Director of the Birmingham Energy Institute presented the vision to establish a National Centre for Decarbonisation of Heat (NCDH), a £20m Levelling Up funding application that will support the testing and validation of new low carbon heating technologies whilst training a new generation of engineers to retrofit homes across the region.

Following the presentation Mr Gove was taken on a tour of the BEIC where he was shown examples of the technologies developed by the BEI in thermal

energy storage, battery recycling and recovery of rare earth metals which are all critical to the UK industrial strategy.

Speaking about the visit Martin Freer said: “It was an absolute pleasure to welcome the Secretary of State on to Site and demonstrate the different ways we are creating opportunities for the wider region. From supporting and incubating SME’s to our policy commission that is exploring how we can deliver low carbon heating effectively, and to everyone, we are committed to supporting the City and its residents.”

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asiana model hunt Page 19

akshay kumar’s godfather look in bachchhan paandey poster Page 20

Birmingham 2022 festival Page 21

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ASIANA MODEL HUNT

Asiana Magazine announces Asiana Model Hunt, a platform for individuals to showcase their modelling talent to the world and help inspire others who wish to be in the same field. #AsianaModelHunt will provide a foot in the industry to aspiring models with the sole aim to ensure diversity and inclusivity of each human being irrespective of their ethnicity and, as a result, deliver quality and variation.

Rajesh Nair, Corporate Director, announced “Asiana Model Hunt is the world’s most diverse model hunt which plans towards the development of a unique platform which results in the betterment, equality and diversity of the modelling industry.

We are always seeking brands and sponsors who share our ethos and vision to associate with us on this process.”

Asiana Model Hunt organisers are proud to announce Lara Dutta as the celebrity judge for shortlisting the models within various categories on the Asiana Model Hunt.

Lara Dutta, an Indian actress, entrepreneur and the winner of the Miss Universe 2000 crown, was prev`iously Miss Intercontinental 1997. In her career, she has primarily worked in Hindi films. She is the recipient of several accolades, including a Filmfare Award, establishing herself as one of the prominent leading ladies of the film industry.

“I’m delighted to be the celebrity judge on Asiana Model Hunt and look forward to choosing the British Asian models who will represent Asian culture and diversity to the world. The British fashion and modelling sectors need more representation and voices from the ethnic communities, and I will be keen to see talented and beautiful British Asian models being chosen by mainstream brands, magazines and catwalks.”

Editor of Asiana Wedding Magazine, Indiya Ahmed, shares her excitement, “We are so proud to have a platform to develop and encourage the enormous talent that exists out there. Who knows, maybe our next Cover Model is just waiting to be discovered?”

If you have star quality aura, then you could be the next role model for Asians and the wider audiences.

Whatever your heritage and experience, if you have the determination to make a difference and make your dreams come true, this is your first step into the industry.

Candidates can register on www.asianamodel.com – application lines close 15th June 2022.

AW Facts Did you know?

Raj Kapoor’s ‘Mera Naam Joker’ was the first Hindi movie to have not one but two intervals

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March 2022

‘I AM THE GODFATHER’ MEGASTAR AKSHAY KUMAR SENDS FANS WILD WITH NEW POSTER FOR ‘BACHCHHAN PAANDEY’ Akshay Kumar has taken to his social media to debut the brand new poster for his upcoming gangster movie ‘Bachchhan Paandey’ to further tease his fans ahead of the official trailer release on the 18th February.

Posting to his 43.9 million Twitter followers, Akshay said: “This is one character that has more shades than a paint shop! #BachchhanPaandey aapko daraane, hasaane, rulaane sab ke liye ready hai (will be here to make you cry, laugh and fear.

Be ready). Please give him all your love. Trailer Out on 18th Feb, 2022.”

Giving fans a glimpse into the nuances of his latest character, the poster says “mujhe bhai nahi godfather bolte hain (You can’t call me a goon, I am the godfather)”, as he cuts a rather fearsome looking gangster in the headshot.

The film is written by Nischay Kuttanda and directed by Farhad Samji and is the story of a gangster who aspires to be an actor. Kriti Sanon plays

a journalist who wishes to direct a film. The film also stars Arshad Warsi, Pankaj Tripathi and Prateik Babbar in important roles.

Audiences should keep their eye out for the trailer on the 18th February ahead of the Amazon Prime Video Premiere Akshay Kumar’s 2022 certainly appears busy with a slate of films including Prithiviraj, Bachchan Pandey, Raksha Bandhan and Oh My God! 2.

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NEW ALL-STAR ALBUM TO PLACE BIRMINGHAM MUSIC ON GLOBAL STAGE A new all-star concept album billed as ‘a sonic love letter to Birmingham’ will be released to music fans across the world for free in June, for the Birmingham 2022 Festival.

On Record, commissioned and produced by Birmingham Music Archive, will feature eleven original songs exclusively written and recorded by new and established city music talent including Bambi Bains, Cherry Pickles, Dapz on the Map, SANITY, Tj Rehmi, and UB40.

Available via a limited vinyl run and across all streaming platforms in June 2022, the release – produced by Grammy nominee Simon Duggal and presented by the Birmingham 2022 Festival is generously supported by

Arts Council England and the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Jez Collins, founder-director of Birmingham Music Archive and executive producer for the project, said, “After many months of planning, negotiating, recording, mastering and mixing, we are thrilled to finally announce On Record.

“In what we believe is the first-ever multi-artist, multigenre album to be written completely about a city, the highs – and lows – of this great place we call home have been explored and documented through a myriad of styles and lyrics.

“The artists on On Record represent Birmingham’s incredibly rich and brilliant music past, present and future, as well as the many

and varied cultures and communities of the Commonwealth and beyond who call the city home; we cannot wait to share this fantastic album with music lovers across the globe.”

Spanning Afrobeat, neosoul, trip-hop, Asian electronica, folk, garage rock, jazz, reggae, RnB, HipHop and UK rap, On Record draws from all corners of the city’s rich and lively music landscape, currently experiencing a renaissance thanks to an explosion of creativity across the city’s cultural industries.

City rapper SANITY, who performed to around a billion viewers during the Commonwealth Games handover from the Gold Coast in Australia to Birmingham in 2018, said, “I’m excited to

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be a part of something so personal to Birmingham. It’s such an inclusive project reflecting the true diversity of our city – there’s something for everyone.”

A new podcast and live event series hosted at B:Music’s

March 2022

Symphony Hall during the Birmingham 2022 Festival, In Conversation, will complement the album.

Robin Campbell, vocalist and guitarist with globally acclaimed Birmingham reggae band UB40, said, “The

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On Record album is an exciting project with an eclectic mix of Birmingham artists that represent the cultural diversity of our city – and we’re proud of our contribution to it.”

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NEW FILM FEATURING SOUTH ASIAN WOMEN HAVING ‘LIFE

SAVING CONVERSATIONS’ RELEASED AS PART OF A NATIONAL CAMPAIGN CALLING ON THOSE ELIGIBLE TO ATTEND THEIR CERVICAL SCREENING could potentially lead to cervical cancer. Any cervical cell changes can be treated, preventing cervical cancer. That is why attending screening appointments is so important.

»» A new national campaign is calling on those eligible not to ignore their invite, as data reveals nearly 1 in 3 don’t take up the offer of cervical screening »» A new survey reveals that 17% of South Asian women who have been invited to screening have never attended, higher than the 7% England average »» A new campaign film has been released featuring South Asian women discussing cervical screening with aim of tackling barriers and driving uptake »» Broadcaster Nadia Ali calls on those eligible to attend their screening and take control of their health The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), with the support of NHS England and NHS Improvement, has launched a major new national campaign, to increase the number of those eligible attending their cervical screening in England. The new Help Us Help You – Cervical Screening Saves Lives campaign urges women and people with a cervix not to ignore their cervical screening invite, and if they missed their last one, to book an appointment with their GP practice now.

Latest figures at March 2021 show that nearly a third (30%) of eligible individuals – women and people with a cervix aged between 25 and 64 – were not screened.

As part of the campaign, a new survey of 3,000 women and

people with a cervix commissioned by DHSC revealed that 17% of South Asian respondents who have been invited to screening have never attended. This is higher than the England average, where 7% have never attended.

The survey also revealed a number of concerns around cervical screening. Across England, embarrassment was the most common reason for having never attended or missing an appointment (stated by 42% of respondents in England), followed by those who “kept putting it off” (34%) and “being worried it would be painful” (28%).

To tackle these barriers and drive take up, a new film has been released featuring Dr Henna Anwar discussing cervical screening with South Asian women and answering their questions. Dr Anwar also encourages those eligible to book their appointment when invited and contact their GP practice if they missed their last screening.

Dr Henna Anwar said: “Two women die every day from cervical cancer. This is particularly sad because cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. Screening can help stop cancer before it starts and saves thousands of lives every year. Do not ignore your cervical screening invite, and if you missed your last one, you can still book an appointment with your GP practice now.”

Maria Caulfield, Minister for Patient Safety and Primary Care, said: “Around two women die every day from cervical cancer, but screening takes just a few minutes and can stop the disease before it starts. Through our new

campaign we’re calling on all women and people with a cervix to get screened to help save hundreds of lives. Even if you’re feeling embarrassed or nervous, please don’t ignore your invitation.”

Jas Dosanjh, aged 48, believes we are fortunate to have the cervical screening programme. She said: “As soon as I get my letter, I immediately book my appointment with the nurse at my GP surgery.

My last screening was fine but when I was younger, my screening results showed abnormal cells, so I had to be monitored every year for a number of years until the cells came back clear.”

Broadcaster, Nadia Ali has joined the campaign to help raise awareness of cervical screening and encourage uptake within the community. She said: “It’s so important for us as South Asian women to talk about cervical screening. We need to encourage our friends and family to attend their appointment when invited so more lives can be saved.”

Around 2,700 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer in England each year and 690 die from the disease– around two deaths a day. Previous estimates suggest screening prevents 70% of cervical cancer deaths, but 83% could be prevented if everyone attended regularly.

The campaign emphasises that screening, which only takes a few minutes, can help stop cervical cancer before it starts. Cervical screening checks for high-risk types of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), which causes nearly all cervical cancers. This is the best way to find out who is at

higher risk of developing the cervical cell changes that over time

Top tips for women attending cervical screenings: »» If you are feeling nervous or embarrassed, talk to your nurse or doctor during the test – they can put your mind at ease and answer all your questions »» If you feel uncomfortable about feeling exposed from the waist down, wear a skirt, dress, or long jumper which you can keep on during the test. Don’t worry if you forget – you’ll be provided with a disposable modesty sheet to cover yourself »» The tests are usually done by a female nurse but don’t be afraid to ask for a nurse or doctor of a particular gender when booking your appointment. »» If you find the screening painful you can ask for a different sized speculum or the nurse

can advise you on different positions to make it more comfortable »» You can listen to music or a podcast or ask your nurse about breathing exercises – this may help you relax or distract you »» Don’t be afraid to talk about screening with your friends and family! Everyone’s had different experiences, and discussing it may help when you go for your next appointment Call To Action »» Don’t ignore your cervical screening invite and if you missed your last screening book an appointment with your GP practice. »» Cervical screening only takes a few minutes – it’s a few minutes that could save your life! »» For further information about cervical screening, please visit www.nhs.uk/cervicalscreening

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March 2022

This International Women’s Day, Woolroom’s (the UK’s leading luxury wool bedding retailer) objective is to change the conversation around menopause by offering solutions to help women across the UK suffering from symptoms such as night sweats and hot flushes get a better night’s sleep and feel more energized going into a new day.

Menopause is often seen as a taboo subject but as a natural and biological process of women’s lives, getting comfortable with talking about menopause has never been so important. According to a Nuffield Health Group study*, 67% of women going through menopause feel like they have little help and support, with The Sleep Foundation** reporting that sleeping disorders affect 39 to 47 percent of perimenopausal women and 35 to 60 percent of postmenopausal women. This International Women’s Day, Woolroom hopes to make more women feel like they’re not alone and offer solutions that will help with a better night’s sleep, including turning to wool – a fibre that can help ease the symptoms of night sweats and hot flushes.

If hot flushes are keeping you awake at night, Woolroom recommends reading our guide on how to sleep better with menopause and have a well-deserved break from the night sweats.

Chris Tattersall, Clean Sleep Environment Expert and MD of Woolroom comments: “Dismantling the barriers around the topic of menopause has never been so important, especially when women around the nation are struggling with these debilitating symptoms. We know that a poor night’s sleep is linked to night sweats and hot flushes and there’s often a lack of awareness[LT1] around the natural benefits of British wool, and its ability to absorb moisture and essentially cool you down.

We are determined more than ever, to continue in our mission to educate the nation of this miracle fibre throughout International Woman’s Day and help women suffering from night sweats and hot flushes achieve a clean night’s sleep and, subsequently, achieve better health and wellbeing.”

What causes menopausal night sweats?

Night sweats in women during the menopause are caused by a fluctuation in oestrogen levels, which ultimately confuses the hypothalamus – the part of the brain that controls body temperature. The hypothalamus reacts quickly to cool the body down, and in doing so, mistakenly heats the body up by expanding blood vessels that release heat and subsequentially cue sweat glands to perspire. Although the body can experience hot flushes at any point of the day, at night-time they are harder to manage, causing you to wake up feeling sweaty, cold and often

WOOLROOM HELPS MENOPAUSAL WOMEN SLEEP BETTER THIS INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

with heart palpitations. Unfortunately, for many women, menopause and sleep don’t often go hand-in-hand, however, taking these steps before going to bed and during the night can help alleviate the symptoms of night sweats.

Stop triggers We all enjoy having a cup of tea or a glass of wine before going to bed, however, caffeine and alcohol are known to worsen the effects of hot flushes and sweating at night. Other significant triggers of night sweats include smoking tobacco and eating spicy foods. If you’re unsure which of these triggers are affecting you, keep a journal by noting down any patterns you notice appearing.

Relieve hot flushes Ways to relieve menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes include yoga or any kind of cardiores-

piratory fitness as it has proven to help reduce symptoms during the day and night.

Finding ways to relax is especially important, while sometimes hard to achieve when waking in the middle of the night feeling cold and sweaty, many studies have shown that breathing exercises can help you fall back to sleep. Practising deep breathing throughout the day is also known to help lessen the amount of night sweats occurrences. Top tip: Keep an atomiser on your bedside table handy for when you feel yourself overheating.

Staying cool at night Creating a comfortable sleeping environment with a natural fibre such as wool is great for ensuring your body stays cool and moisture is kept away while sleeping. Wool bedding, including a wool mattress, wool mattress protector, wool

pillows, and even wool duvets are a great way to keep your body at the right temperature. Investing in a cool bedding fibre such as wool will ensure you stay comfortable throughout the night and achieve an undisturbed sleep.

Another way to help your body regulate heat is to choose a lighter duvet and opt for wool blankets to layer on bedding as wool blankets are easy to throw off in the night if you start overheating. Another way to alleviate menopausal night sweats is to wear loose pyjamas or fabrics in light cotton or silk as these natural fibres will allow your body to breathe, keeping you cooler at night.

If night sweats and hot flushes are keeping you awake at night, Woolroom recommends reading more about the benefits of wool and how this natural fibre can help relieve symptoms of the menopause on our blog here: Night Sweats and Sleep.v

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CHEF FEDERICO FUSCA

AN D H IS PASSION FOR ITALIAN CUISI N E By: Rida Khan (Aviation Author) Chef Federico Fusca (Instagram A/c : federicofusca) is a 33 year old Italian chef who started his career at the age of 16 working in hotels and restaurants. He was a normal cook but with a great desire to do and create something new in the profession of cooking he became a digital entrepreneur and within two years he was recognized as one of the best 10 food influencers for FORBES. He worked on television for the first Italian national network Rai 1 and became a regular guest in the program conducted by Antonella clerici, “ É Sempre Mezzogiorno ” . He also works for various Italian radios and other newspapers , in addition he is the brand ambassador of various companies and collaborates with the best Italian companies .

Chef Federico : I am the same person as before but certainly with much more ambitions. To receive an award like this is important above all because it gives you the desire to grow more and more.

Q

Many Italian recipes from centuries are created by ordinary people, that’s why they are suitable for home / daily cooking.

What do you have to say about it ?

Chef Federico : Italian cuisine and history, basically derives from an ancient and poor cuisine, recipes of the past were always with very few ingredients. Surely it is , and as I always say in the kitchen you don’t have to make masterpieces but you have to know how to use the raw material.

Q

Q

Q

Q

You are a digital entrepreneur , how is it related to the profession of cooking ?

Chef Federico : I started this job during lockdown. I collaborate with the companies and cook recipes in my kitchen or in the set.

Today as many companies are changing their way of marketing and selling products , digital work is one of their top choices to go with it. I create contents related to my cooking to influence people about the recipes and companies products digitally.

How did cooking as a profession come into your life ?

Chef Federico : I started as a child, but surely the passion entered a little at a time, always taking inspiration from the great chefs I worked with.

Q

I have seen your dishes , it includes more spaghetti & noodles.

Is it because you are Italian or there is some other reason ?

Chef Federico : I like to do traditional and even experimental cuisine but here on social networks I definitely want to make things that people can propose so easy… Pasta is a topic that unites us all so I prefer it all here.

Q

According to you, how Italian cuisine is influencing other cuisines of the world?

Chef Federico : Italian cuisine is one of the best in the world and is certainly imitated .. I am proud of my country.

Q

Which food ingredient you find is the most important to be used while cooking Italian food ?

Chef Federico : In my opinion there is no real food that I prefer but today, for example, we need to be careful about seasonality by always buying what nature offers us. Like it is unthinkable to find strawberries in December so you must always maintain a certain sense of balance in seasonality.

Q

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How do you feel becoming one of the best 10 food influencers for FORBES ?

Archestratus was the first Italian food writer who said, “ Flavors should not be masked by spices & herbs or other seasoning .” Do you agree ?

Chef Federico : Certainly the choice of the raw material influences a lot and the spices alter the flavors.

I come from a Tuscan cuisine where aromatic herbs for example are the order of the day. For me cooking is creativity and if one manages to balance everything well then it means that he is good.

I agree to a certain extent.

Any advice for the upcoming chefs ?

Chef Federico : I advise everyone to believe in their dreams, to sacrifice themselves but above all not to give up in the face of difficulties.

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March 2022

ASIAN & ORIENTAL CHEF AWARDS

Chef Ashwani Kumar of the Mango Tree in Windsor has scooped the top award at this year’s Asian & Oriental Chef Awards. Open to professional chefs across all Asian and Oriental cuisines, nominations were invited from members of the public, restaurant critics, food journalists and bloggers.

Contestants were required to prepare a starter and main course in an hour. Marks were awarded for originality and creativity, technical skill, use of fresh local produce of known provenance, presentation and flavour.

Chef Ashwani’s winning entry was a Rice Crusted Tiger Prawn Martini, followed by Charcoal Smoked Guinea Fowl stuffed with spinach, feta cheese and pine nuts, rolled in pistachio served with black pepper and yoghurt sauce, beetroot froth, wheat crisps, sautéed pak choy, broccoli and oriental chili potatoes.

The live cook-off event was held at Pillars Kitchen at the University of West London on Monday 21st February. Winners will be presented at the House of Lords on Monday 2nd March, which will also be used to launch the 12th Asian Curry Awards sponsored by Just Eat, being held in

London on 20th November. Spice loving members of the public can nominate their favourites at www. asiancurryawards.com.

A panel of judges comprised Sameer Taneja, Executive Chef at the Michelin-starred Benares in London; the highly decorated Chad Rahman head chef of the Mumtaj restaurant in St Albans; and renowned food writer Mridula Baljekar, author of numerous award-winning cookbooks; Thomas Chan co-chairman of the Chinese Catering Association, Teddy Chen of the Malaysian Restaurants Association; and Restaurant Consultant George Shaw.

The Runner’s-Up award went to Vinod Rawat, Head Chef of Pushkar restaurant in Birmingham, who won Fine Dining Chef of the Year – West Midlands, with Iqbal Ahamad, Head Chef of the acclaimed Grand Trunk Road in Woodford in East London in third place – who was named Fine Dining Chef of the Year – London.

Jie Chen Chef at Canton Kitchen in London’s Chinatown was named Oriental Chef of the Year.

Kamrul Hoque, Ahad Abdul and Dilder Miah, the Chefs at Kushi restaurants in Romford in East London, plus Grays and Canvey

Island in Essex respectively, both received Highly Commended awards.

BBC news anchor Samantha Simmonds will present the Asian & Oriental Chef Awards, hosted by Lord Sheikh, at a special dinner in the Cholmondeley Room and Terrace at the Palace of Westminster from 18:30pm.

Organised by the Asian Catering Federation (ACF), which represents the UK’s 30,000 Asian and Oriental restaurants and takeaways.

Commenting on the competition, ACF Chairman Yawar Khan said: “Standards have risen exponentially since we launched our various awards to recognise the most innovative chefs, adding, “During the Covid 19 lockdown, restaurants had to survive on their takeaway and delivery offers, with even Michelin-starred restaurants turning to this avenue for the first time – with our sponsor Just Eat providing them with a vital route to market.”

The ACF will also he holding the Asian Restaurant Awards in Manchester on 11th July; the Asian Restaurant Awards – Scotland on 19th September.

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TECHNOLOGY

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March 2022

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TECH START-UP GETS VIRTUAL BUSINESS BOOST IN DUBAI

The University of Birmingham Dubai has teamed up with a technology start-up to give a young entrepreneur the chance to create a Virtual Reality (VR) teaching experience based on the science of Birmingham’s Nobel Prize winners.

University of Birmingham MSc Computer Science graduate Andy Morrin founded his own tech business – Elmdon Studios, which was recently awarded a place on the University’s UoB Elevate entrepreneurial support programme.

The University of Birmingham Dubai is creating the world’s smartest university campus. In a business development that could be echoed by future Computer Studies graduates from the University of Birmingham Dubai, Andy won the opportunity to work with academics in the UAE and explore ways of enhancing teaching with VR and Augmented Reality (AR).

Andy and the team crafted four exciting, interactive lessons that bring the research of some of the University’s Nobel Prize winners to life in both VR and AR. They took just six weeks to design and deliver a pilot product that demonstrates how immersive technology can enhance the student and staff experience.

Ben Bailey, Campus Director at the University of Birmingham Dubai, comments: “The metaverse could transform the way we teach, learn and operate at a smart campus. Our collaboration with Elmdon Studios has created an exciting VR application that brings to life the

work of four Birmingham Nobel Prize winners in an informative, engaging and fun way.

“We believe that this type of technology could transform teaching and learning at the University of Birmingham Dubai and we cannot wait to launch this application at the official opening ceremony in March.”

Having been awarded a place on UoB Elevate, Elmdon Studios has received a wealth of business support to help establish itself as a promising startup with very strong digital capabilities in the VR/AR space.

Mo Ali, from the University’s Careers Network, explains: “Dubai is the most entrepreneurial place on Earth and the University of Birmingham thrives on innovation to make important things happen.

Whether in the UK or the UAE, we support our talented graduates, like Andy, and help them demonstrate their ingenuity to make the world a better and more connected place.

“There is a constant exchange of University of Birmingham students, staff and ideas between Dubai and the UK, I have no doubt that this will lead to many more important things happening, shaping the future in a positive way.”

The pilot will be showcased at the official opening of the new University of Birmingham

Dubai campus next month. The system has been designed to engage people with an interest in research, teaching, learning and general student experience.

The application is spilt into two sections: • Four six-minute lessons designed to educate users on the research achievements of four Nobel Prize Winners and their work.

• A fun, game-type experience in which the user has 60 seconds to knock down as many targets as possible by grabbing and throwing a number of balls.

This type of experience will be ideal for open days and recruitment style activities.

Andy Morrin, Founder and Director Elmdon Studios, comments: “The University’s approach to innovation is one of the things that appealed to me when I was looking at my options for where I wanted to study. The VR application we have created is just the tip of the iceberg when we consider the wider possibilities for VR application in teaching, learning and research over the long term. I hope my story inspires the next generation of students and I hope that this initiative serves as an introduction to immersive technology and acts as a teaser for what is to come.”

The University of Birmingham Dubai offers foundation, un-

dergraduate and postgraduate programmes across a range of areas.

As the first global top 100 and elite UK Russell Group university to establish a campus in Dubai, the University of Birmingham Dubai delivers the highest-quality education underpinned by a growing research focus in a leading global educational hub.

Designed to reflect real-world working practices, the University of Birmingham Dubai’s new campus opens shortly and encourages students to carry out research in interdisciplinary teams across all academic subjects. Flexible study spaces ensure students have a learning environment suited to their needs; whether in large lecture theatres and laboratories or smaller seminar and tutorial rooms.

With architecture inspired by the historic Aston Webb buildings at the centre of the Birmingham campus, the Dubai facilities use shaded open-air courtyard spaces to create an enjoyable and productive student experience. The buildings sit next to parkland offering sports pitches and an open-air event space, whilst new student accommodation is a short walk away, across the parkland.

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QANTAS AND IT’S TRAINING ACADEMY

By: Rida Khan ( Aviation Author) Qantas, a flag carrier of Australia moved at Brisbane airport to open a new pilot training facility with the capacity to train around 900 pilots a year . The airlines in addition expanded the training centre in Melbourne and a new flight centre will be built in Sydney . The main reason to take this decision is as the majority of Qantas pilots are based in those

three eastern states so it will be a cost saving for Qantas.

Qantas Group flight training centre is home to four state of art aircraft simulators – B737 , B767F, B787 , QantasLink’s Q400, QantasLink Q400 FTD . It will provide recurrent training for 500 plus pilots based in Queensland and from other states and the new pilots who will join Qantas Group in fu-

ture. Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce said, “ Qantas first flying school was set up in 1927 in a tin shed at Eagle Farm, so we’ve clearly come a long way since then. Having simulators based in Brisbane is great news for our Queensland based pilots and is a clear vote of confidence in the long term future of aviation in this country despite the challenges we’ve faced re-

cently . Training is a critical part of our business and the new Brisbane simulator facility will play a key role in helping us to maintain the highest standards of pilot skills and experience .”

Joyce further added , “ We have a pilot training academy in Toowoomba that is providing a pilot pipeline to Qantas Group and other airlines and some of the graduates have already secured pilot positions with QantasLink.

They will complete the simulator

phase of their training program at the new Queensland facility.”

Cameron Dick Queensland Treasurer & Minister for trade & investment said, “ The “Q” in Qantas proudly stands for Queensland and it has been more than 100 years since the company was founded in Winton in 1920.”

Qantas Group Executive John Gissing said, “ The changes were made possible through support from the state governments. By having Flight Training Centres in all three eastern states where the

majority of our crew reside, we can reduce costs by millions of dollars a year through training them in their home base.”

The Queensland government is fully supporting this new facility and for this Joyce is very thankful to the Queensland government as it will give more jobs based in Queensland and the ongoing economy will boost the state.

The four simulators and flight training device are now active 24 hour a day with up to 50 pilots and trainers using the centre each day .

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March 2022

MOTORING THE MOTOR OMBUDSMAN OFFERS TIPS TO CONSUMERS CONTEMPLATING BUYING A NEW CAR AS 22 REGISTRATION ARRIVES

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From 01 March 2022 all new cars leaving retailers in England, Wales and Scotland will carry the number “22” on their plates, the first of two registration series that that will be introduced this year. With March traditionally being one of the busiest and most important months for new car sales, The Motor Ombudsman is highlighting some key tips for consumers to consider when looking for a brand new vehicle.

The choice of retailer is essential Choosing where to buy a car is just as important as the selection of the vehicle itself. Using a retailer that is accredited to The Motor Ombudsman’s Vehicle Sales Code and is listed on the body’s online Garage Finder, means the business is adhering to the highest standards of work and service. Should there be a dispute that you cannot conclude directly with a seller in the first instance, you will also have access to The Motor Ombudsman’s free-ofcharge Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) service.

Wait times for delivery can vary Due to the ongoing semiconductor chip shortage, which has impacted vehicle production around the world, the delivery of a new car may take longer. Therefore, enquire about what the lead times are from the point of ordering so that you have a gauge of what to expect. In addition, if the car is not being purchased at a local retailer, delivery charges may apply, so finding these out in advance may be useful for budgeting.

Electric motoring is on a charge The choice of electric vehicles (EVs) on the market has grown rapidly, with zero emission models offering a different kind of “motoring lifestyle” compared to petrol or diesel equivalents.

Therefore, looking at what range is offered between charges, where the vehicle will often be charged (i.e. on-street or on a driveway), how long this takes, and how much it costs to replenish the battery from empty with the tariffs offered, are all crucial considerations. If

you are looking at electric cars priced under £32,000, they are eligible for a government grant of up to £1,500.

Non-refundable deposits are generally the norm It is commonplace that, once a deposit has been put down on a new car, a legally binding contract has been formed with the seller. This means that you won’t be entitled to get it back, unless there are some exceptions that have been stated up front, so it’s essential to be sure in your decision prior to going ahead with the purchase.

Test drives provide a first-hand experience of a car As well as doing initial research and reading reviews, putting a car to the test is when you will truly find out whether the particular make and model is right for you. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions, and to get a feel for how the car performs on different

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types of roads, such as motorways and country lanes. Similarly, being at the wheel is an ideal chance to gauge the level of comfort, visibility and space, and how intuitive the in-cabin technology is, such as the infotainment and satellite navigation systems.

You have a choice as to how to pay for a car There are various ways to buy a car according to what best suits your finances. This can vary from paying in one lump sum, to putting down a deposit as part of a personal contract purchase (PCP), or arranging a leasing agreement through the Motability Scheme if you qualify. Ultimately, you need to ensure that the car meets your budget, and that any monthly payments will be affordable throughout the contract term. Therefore, only sign on the dotted line once you are happy with the finance agreement.

Think about the post-purchase running and maintenance costs Ownership and maintenance costs differ depending on the size, make and model of vehicle, and how it is powered, i.e. whether it is a hybrid, electric or is fitted with a conventional petrol or diesel engine. These all have a bearing on annual road tax, fuel consumption in an age of rising prices, and on the cost of repairs. Working out your budget for the ownership of the vehicle beyond the point of purchase is therefore vital to ensure that running your chosen car remains affordable in the longer-term.

Warranties vary in duration and coverage New car warranties offered by vehicle manufacturers vary by brand in terms of their duration, maximum permitted mileage, and what components and repairs they cover. Therefore, it

is important to read the small print to understand what is included, and what the policy exclusions are (e.g. parts which are subject to wear and tear). If buying an electric car, specific terms may also apply to the vehicle’s batteries, so it is just as important to read any associated conditions related to these components.

Online vehicle purchases mean different laws apply With more businesses and vehicle manufacturers offering consumers the possibility of buying a car online, different UK legislation applies if you order and pay for a vehicle on the internet without ever visiting the showroom at any point during the sales transaction, including for a test drive. Known as a “distance sale”, it is governed by the Consumer Contracts (Information, Cancellation and Additional Charges) Regulations 2013, rather than the Consumer Rights Act 2015. For example, you have 14 days to return the car from the date of delivery if you change your mind after buying a car on a website.

However, there may be deductions for usage.

Bill Fennell, Chief Ombudsman and Managing Director of The Motor Ombudsman, said: “Buying a new car is often an exciting time for many, but before taking the plunge and making what is often a significant financial commitment, it is important to do your research. As we have highlighted, there are many factors that can influence a purchase decision.”

Bill added: “It pays to spend time finding the right make and model that suits your individual needs, lifestyle and budget, and purchasing from a retailer that is accredited to The Motor Ombudsman’s Vehicle Sales Code. This will provide you with reassurance that, if something were to go wrong once it is driven off the forecourt, there is an independent and impartial dispute resolution body to turn to.”

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PETROL PRICES REACH RECORD HIGHS:

AUTO TRADER LISTS THE MOST FUEL EFFICIENT CARS TO KEEP DAILY RUNNING COSTS DOWN

Prices at fuel pumps hit record highs across the UK, with the cost-ofliving crisis continuing at speed. In response to the eye-watering prices that show no sign of easing, Auto Trader, the UK’s largest marketplace for new and used cars, has provided consumers with a list of vehicles that will help keep their daily running costs down.

Erin Baker, Editorial Director, at Auto Trader, said: “Yesterday, the cost-of-living crisis hit new lows as fuel prices reach record highs. With little to no indication of when they’ll fall its reason enough to look at the fuel efficiency in your current and next car. Electric vehicles are a great option to keep daily running costs down, but the upfront cost of them is still a barrier for many. Therefore, we’ve highlighted some of the most efficient fully hybrid and mild hybrid cars that will help consumers keep those daily running costs down and capitalise on some seriously impressive MPGs.”

Auto Trader’s list of the most fuel-efficient cars:

Make

Model

MPG

RRPs

(as at 23/02)

Renault

Clio E-Tech

64.2

£22,655

Vauxhall

Astra 1.5 Turbo D

62.8

£23,805

Honda

Jazz

62.7

£19,910

Toyota

Yaris-Cross

57.6

£23,280

Fiat

500

56.5

£14,005

Ford

Fiesta EcoBoost

55.4

£23,482.51

Hyundai

i10 1.2 MPi

55.4

£13,420

Mazda

3 e-Skyactiv X

53.3

£28,575

Dacia

Sandero

52.3

£11,245

Peugeot

3008 1.2 PureTech 130 48

£28,690

WALSALL SUCCESSFUL IN BID FOR EV CHARGEPOINT FUNDING Walsall Council has been successful in securing £254k of grant funding from the Office of Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) as part of their On-street Residential Chargepoint Scheme (ORCS) programme. This funding will be supported by £85k of match funding from the Council in order to deliver approximately 35 chargepoints across the borough. These chargepoints will be located in residential areas, allowing households without off-street parking to charge electric vehicles while their vehicle is at home. The council is asking residents for their views on the possible siting of the chargepoints in an online survey.

The chargers are expected to be used mostly for overnight charging, with a power of 7kW (see table below). Currently around 80% of all EV charging takes place at home, showing the critical importance of residential charging to the adoption of EVs. These initial installations are part of delivering the Black Country UltraLow Emission Vehicles (ULEV) Strategy which was consulted on in 2020. This bid is part of a larger Black Country ORCS bid securing £1.15m of grant funding, to deliver approximately 317 chargepoints at 158 locations across the region. Further installations will continue over the coming years, aiming to meet targets identified in the ULEV strategy of 761 Standard, 214 Fast and 19 Rapid and Ultra-Rapid chargers across the Black Country, in order to provide our residents with

CLASSIC CAR AUCTIONS GEARS UP FOR THEIR BIGGEST AUCTION EVER AT THE NEC THIS SPRING!

a chargepoint within 500m of 95% of the Black Country.

Uptake of electric vehicles is already on a steep upward trajectory, exceeding 25% of new car sales in December 2021, but the Black Country is currently lagging behind the national averages for uptake. Lack of publicly available chargers is repeatedly cited as one of the key reasons for not switching to electric vehicles, so it is incredibly important that we increase the numbers of chargepoints available to residents across the region.

Deputy Leader of Walsall Council, Cllr Adrian Andrew said: “The transition away from petrol and diesel vehicles is a key component of meeting the Council’s climate targets, as well as helping to improve air qual-

ity. The ULEV strategy also stresses the importance of transitioning the council’s own fleet away from combustion engines, as well as measures to reduce the overall number of vehicles in the region and the number of miles they cover which includes encouraging more walking, cycling and use of public transport.”

The chargepoints will be operated by a third-party chargepoint operator (CPO) who will collect the fees for usage from customers. The operator will be selected through a competitive process to ensure best value for residents.

Anyone wishing to take part in the consultation can log on to www.walsall.gov.uk/EVcharging-consultation

Classic Car Auctions (CCA) is getting set for their first auction of the year at the Practical Classics Classic Car and Restoration Show which returns to the NEC, Birmingham from Friday 18th March to Sunday 20th March 2022, and it’s going to be huge!

The show is always an extremely popular event for classic car enthusiasts and attracts a large audience from all parts of the UK, as well as international visitors. It follows a two-year hiatus for the show, having been forced to cancel in 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic restrictions.

This year, not only is the show making a comeback, but it looks set to be bigger and better than ever before, and Classic Car Auctions Sales Manager, Gary Dunne believes this might be their largest auction yet; “When Covid-19 took hold in Spring 2020, one of the very first events to be cancelled was this event. Many of us remember the effects of lockdown, but very few people outside of the Classic Car world would have realised then the impact the pandemic would have upon our industry. Our trade has changed beyond recognition, with much more business being conducted online now than ever before, however there is a massive desire for customers to get back to normal. We can’t wait to get to the NEC, and it would appear our clients agree.

Our catalogue is bursting at the seams and our phones have been ringing off the hook with more entries to be considered. Everybody wants to be part of a winning formula and the thought of a great audience, with an appetite to catch up with friends old and new is almost certainly going to mean we have the biggest consignment of cars for one sale that we have had in years – possibly ever! We will have over

200 cars to offer, over two days of auctions, and may need to acquire more space given the number of cars being offered to us.”

Classic Car Auctions already have every type of Everyman Classic being offered in the sale, a large number of Porsches, BMWs and Mercedes-Benz, British Classics like MG, Triumph and Rolls Royce, Continental Classics

by Lancia, Alfa Romeo and even an Australian Holden! There are American Classics, Campers Vans, and even a couple of complete originals that will not be repeated anywhere else.

At the PCCCRS show there will be Barn Finds and Restoration Projects of course, but CCA will also have some show-winning cars and Concours standard vehicles that would be enjoyed by many a customer. With cars priced between £5,000 and £75,000 typically, CCA is hoping that customers come along in their thousands to enjoy being back out in the NEC. Despite the volume of vehicles already consigned, there are still cars coming in and CCA have disclosed that there are three individual collections just in the process of being listed that amount to 50 cars between them – the details of which cannot be disclosed until next week, but they consist of a mix of British Classics, pre-War vintage and Americana. Watch this space!

To view the list so far, and for further details about all the lots under the hammer, refer to the Classic Car Auctions website, or to find out more about attending the show, visit www. necrestorationshow.com Bidding for the sale can be done in person, online, by phone or via commission (pre-bid). For absentee bidding, please register online at least 48 hours before the auction day.

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CELEBRATION TIME! COMMUNITY GROUPS AWARDED FUNDING TO HELP EMBRACE BIRMINGHAM 2022 COMMONWEALTH GAMES Craig Cooper, Commonwealth Games Programme Director for Birmingham City Council, said: “All of the organisations involved with delivering the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games have made it clear that these will be a Games for everyone, bringing people and communities across the city together.

That’s why we are determined to ensure the benefits reach every district and neighbourhood in the city – with everyone given a chance to play their part in the citywide celebration and project to the world what it really means to be the Proud Host City.

The applications we received from people and groups wanting to be a part of Celebrating Communities were inspiring, bold and innovative. Those who have been awarded grants will play a key role in a summer that showcases the best of Birmingham at the start of what will be a golden decade for the city.

Funds totalling £300,000 have been given to 65 projects in 36 wards during the 1st round of awards for a city council programme designed to help people celebrate the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games All 69 of the city’s wards will eventually receive support through the Celebrating Communities Small Grants Funding Scheme.

The scheme, being delivered across two phases, represents a £2million investment by the council to maximise the benefit and legacy of being the Proud Host City for the Games – ensuring its reach stretches beyond the areas hosting competition or cultural events.

Ward Forums and community voting were used to help select the successful applications, and the Round One projects will run between now and September of this year.

THE COUNTRIES WHO ARE COMINATING THE WINTER OLYMPIC IN THE 21ST CENTURY, AND HOW TEAM GB STACKS UP The 2022 Winter Olympic Games has already provided some incredible sporting moments, with the medals already being claimed.

However, new research has looked into what countries can claim the title of most successful country of the century.

SportsPub analysed the Winter Olympic medal tables from the past 20 years to reveal which countries reign supreme on the biggest sporting stage in the world.

Key Facts: »» Germany is the most successful country at the Winter Olympics of the 21st century, with the most gold medals won since 2002 »» The United States come in as the second most successful country, with the highest total medal count of any country »» Norway is the third most successful country at the Winter Olympics, since 2002, with the best medal count per capita »» Team GB comes in 22nd out of the 33 countries to have medalled since 2002

Most Successful Countries at the Winter Olympics: Rank

Gold

Silver

Bronze

Weighted total

Medals per capita rank

Germany

1

55

57

33

312

14

United States

2

46

54

47

293

23

Norway

3

49

40

43

270

1

Canada

4

49

38

34

257

11

Russia

5

29

30

37

184

20

Austria

6

25

28

34

165

3

Netherlands

7

26

21

22

142

10

Switzerland

8

26

14

20

126

5

Sweden

9

21

19

21

122

7

South Korea

10

22

22

10

120

17

Great Britain

22

4

2

8

24

27

Country