Inspirational Magazine Autumn/Winter 2013 Edition 4 by Champions (UK) plc

INSPIRATIONAL magazine

Kylie Minogue: Canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get Her out of our Heads gloBal Heritage: CHinese desire for luXury CHaMpions: innovative Brand solutions

AUTUMN/WINTER 2013

in this edition:

Frédérique Constant was founded in 1988 by Peter and Aletta Stas in Geneva, with a clear objective to create what became known as “accessible luxury” watches. By offering excellent quality watches with affordable prices Frédérique Constant has gradually become an important player within the Swiss watch making industry. The company’s slogan “Live your Passion” symbolizes their philosophy also present in their support of important charitable organizations that are driven by Passion and the sponsorship of prestigious events like the Peking Paris Motor Challenge and the European Austin Healey Meeting. Join us and become a fan on : www.facebook.com/Watches.Frederique.Constant

Support “Hearts of Children“ Charity campaign with Inès Sastre & World Heart Federation

with the Slimline Moonphase Manufacture From the dawn of time, the moon has been a source of inspiration, of wonder, of passion to us all. The Frederique Constant Moonphase Manufacture with in-house developed calibre displays the varying lunar phases within a sleek design as awe-inspiring and timeless as the moon itself. Suggested retail prices: ÂŁ 2,840 in rose gold plated, ÂŁ 2,530 in stainless steel. w w w.frederique-constant.com

Elegance is an attitude

lers Since

• Fine

lers Since

H Johnson & Son, 50-51 Queens Road, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV11 5JX

Longines DolceVita

www.longines.com

Kate Winslet

“WELCOME TO OUR WORLD”

The seven pilots of the Breitling Jet Team belong to the international elite of aviation professionals. In performing their aerobatic figures at almost 800 km/h, flying 2 meters from each other and with accelerations of up to 8Gs, errors are not an option. It is for these masters of audacity and daring exploits that Breitling develops its chronographs: sturdy, functional, ultra high-performance instruments all equipped with movements chronometer-certified by the COSC – the highest official benchmark in terms of reliability and precision. Welcome to the Breitling world.

51 Queens Road, Nuneaton, Warwickshire, CV11 5JX, Tel: 02476 347038

SUPEROCEAN CHRONOGRAPH II

CREATIVE

MARKETING

PUBLIC RELATIONS

EVENTS

08453 31 30 31 www.championsukplc.com

CELEBRITY

Editor in Chief Matthew Hayes Creative Editor Sarah Garner Advertising Manager Sophia Hayes Features Editor Victoria Marconetto Advertising Editor Amelia Benskin

letter from the

EDITOR

Advertising Assistant Rebecca Edwards

It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to our autumn/winter edition of Inspirational Magazine. This edition

Features Writers Christopher Brookes Megan Smith

Midlands has to offer, from luxury lifestyle brands to great food and entertainment, giving us all plenty to look

Designers Jodie Barker Ewen Lewis Kristian Goodeve Maddie Smith

comes to you after a difficult time, however this edition is a great opportunity to share the very best that the West forward to this season. We look at one of the most popular artists and arguably the Queen of pop, Kylie Minogue. With a huge array of chart toppers under her belt, she shows no sign of slowing down, continuing to be the pop icon love the world over and lauded for her amazing contribution to charity. This season is always one of celebration for our readers and this edition’s winter wedding guide showcases the

Photography Kristian Goodeve Maddie Smith Antonia Doyle

region’s very finest photographers, venues and advice for those looking plan the most special day of their lives.

Production Manager Alexandra Buist

personalities and our foray into the world of sport continues with our exclusive interview with Evander Holyfield.

Production Manager Sarah Pearson

The popularity of celebrity chefs continues and we take a look at one of the nation’s most respected French chefs and

Web Development Julian Purser

across the industry for his delicious food and dedication to creating beautiful dishes that can be enjoyed by everyone.

For the keen golfer, we take a look at a true legend of the sport, Tony Jacklin CBE. Both an iconic sportsman and now star of the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, he continues to be one of the nation’s most enigmatic and generous

foremost gastronomic experts. Jean-Christophe Novelli, winner of AA Rosettes and Michelin stars, is renowned

With the festive season fast approaching, this autumn/winter sees us explore even more of the West Midlands’ very best places to shop and dine, providing the perfect Christmas package. With so many wonderful restaurants to choose from, our fine dining guide is fuller than ever, matched by the exclusive items in our guide of this season’s hottest gifts.

Contributors Libby Johnson Robert Johnson Gillian Wesley Eurojet Janine Edwards

Sally Walder Jason Yeomans Tarah Hewitt Richard Vickery Tara Robinson

Luxury items are proving more popular than ever and we look at the growing power of established heritage brands in an increasingly global marketplace, as well as exploring the ways in which one of the country’s leading agencies is harnessing the power of international brand communications. We are sure you will enjoy browsing our images from the biggest events across the West Midlands in our social pages – there have been some truly fantastic days and nights, many of them for excellent causes and it is wonderful to see

www.inspirational.uk.com For mailing list and subscription enquiries please visit www.inspirational.uk.com For advertising enquiries please contact: Sophia Hayes on 08453 31 30 31 or email: shayes@championsukplc.com

so many people enjoying the finest hospitality. Many events have been organised by the Champions Club, bringing together the region’s key businesses to build strong links and a great business community for the benefit of all. As always, our online presence continues to expand and we produce some excellent features that are only available online. Make sure you visit www.inspirational.uk.com to discover our regularly updated features and blog posts. Our Facebook and Twitter pages offer daily updates on all things Inspirational and you can sign up online to our monthly e-newsletters online to ensure you are kept up to date with the latest news and updates from the West Midlands and beyond.

Published By

I hope you enjoy our latest edition as much as we have putting it together and are looking forward to the luxurious fun that the festive season has to offer!

Champions (UK) plc Barrington House, Leake Road, Costock, Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE12 6XA Tel: 08453 31 30 31 Fax: 08453 31 30 32

Matthew Hayes Editor in Chief

www.championsukplc.com Inspirational Magazine® is a registered Trademark of Champions (UK) plc. Please note: Inspirational Magazine is fully protected by copyright; no part of this magazine may be reproduced or reprinted without the complete and expressed permission of the publisher. The greatest care has been taken to ensure accuracy, however there can be no liability accepted by the publisher for errors or omissions. Inspirational Magazine can under no circumstances be held responsible for any materials, matter or photographical copy submitted for publication or not within the magazine. We cannot be held liable or responsible for any breaches of copyright from adverts, materials, photography or any other matter supplied by third parties. The views and opinions expressed within this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher or indeed Inspirational Magazine or any featured parties.

“We are not makers of history, we are made by history.” Martin Luther King, Jr.

About Rado

“If we can imagine it, we can make it”. Innovative design and high-tech scratch-resistant materials are the essential distinguishing marks of the Rado brand. As a leader in the top-ofthe-range market, Rado has become famous throughout the entire world for its research into materials science. It is the use of sapphire, ceramics, and even high-tech diamond that creates the strong, unique character of the Rado watch.

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND Rado’s design concepts draw their LIFESTYLE inspiration from the intrinsic qualities of the materials used. For Rado, form

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

Rose and yellow gold coloured elements in high-tech ceramic give these steel models an

multiCIG Kylie Minogue................................. shine. ........................................ 64 is intimately linked to more intangible 10 eye-catching Can’t get her out of our heads

values, and the brand is as ever committed to the quest for outstanding Johnsons Jewellers .......................... 16 new ideas. This of surpassing High-tech materials and philosophy unique design from luxury Swiss oneself and of constantly pushing the watchmakers Rado boundaries of possibility has been Wedding rewardedClub with ................................. numerous international 22 Plan your perfect day with our luxury wedding guide design prizes.

Premier e-cigarette company

The collection’s stand Tailor out models are The Bespoke .......................... 66 super sleek, sporty chronographs with Personalised service from expert tailor Adrian Barrows 45mm high-tech ceramic monobloc cases. Tony Ultra-lightweight, seriously Jacklin CBE ........................... 70 Sporting icon still the top of his game - we take a look at scratch-resistant andatdangerously the continuing theblack, golf legend desirable, they areimportance availableof in white and platinum-look plasma treated Farmfoods British Royal Westmoreland........................ 36 high-tech Since 1957, Rado’s story has been Parceramic. 3 Championship ....................... 74 Own a piece of paradise marked by a prodigious number of 80th anniversary of the historic tournament brings huge pioneering innovations. The brand subtle stillcelebrities crowds, and incredible golfbut and star Mailbox .......................................... 42 Streamlined continuespremier to develop materials elegantly eye-catching, the Rado Birmingham’s shoppingnew destination expands Eden Hotel Collection and the new technology required to HyperChrome is the ultimate all ..................... 78 Award-winning selection of hotels boasting style, character Gift Guide ....................................... shape them. Hardness and durability 48 day, every occasion timepiece. and personality A selection of the most incredible gifts remain key material requirements, while Whether you usually wear a practicality and wearer comfort are the or a business suit, ........................... 82 Evander Holyfield Highfields Dental Surgery ............... 56 tracksuit focus of Rado design. if you’re into haute couture An exclusive interview with the five-time Shining white smiles and exceptional dentistry or high-street style, there World Heavyweight Champion is an ideal watch in the collection for you.

The New Rado HyperChrome Collection

The new Rado HyperChrome collection represents a step forward in design for

HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN

Specially designed for ladies, there are smaller date models embellished with diamonds on the bezel or the dial

Bang & Olufsen .............................. 90 Audio and visual excellence from one of the world’s leading brands

Ripples............................................ 92 Bathroom design specialists

Kitchen Gallery ............................... 95 Bespoke luxury kitchen designers

Jean-Christophe Novelli .................. 98 The nation’s favourite French chef

124

120

100

116

140

122 FINE DINING GUIDE

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

SOCIAL AND NETWORKING

Pushkar ........................................ 100

Amplify ......................................... 114

Socialising………………….136

Loves Restaurant........................... 101 Cielo............................................. 102 Edmunds Restaurant .................... 103 Asha’s ........................................... 104 34 Windsor St ............................... 105 Don Diego/ The Four Seasons Restaurant......... 106 Simpsons/Purnell’s/ Opus at Cornwall Street ................ 107

Event hospitality taken to a new level

St. James’s Place .......................... 116 Experts in wealth management and financial advice

Club Wembley ............................... 120

Kitchen Gallery Jim Troughton Testimonial Ashas Harvey Nichols Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship

Premier sports and entertainment at the nation’s most iconic stadium

Champions Club Golf Day

Global Heritage; Chinese desire for Luxury .............. 122

Birmingham Post Sports Awards

PMGC Golf Day Champions Club Eurojet

An emerging marketplace in the East and the increasing power of the brand

Champions (UK) plc ..................... 124 Harnessing the power of global communication

The Brasserie at Mallory Court/ The Dining Room at Mallory Court/ 34 Windsor St ............................... 108 Mailbox Dining ............................ 109 Aston Villa .................................... 110 Finest Catch ................................. 112 9

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

Canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Get Her Out Of Our Heads One of the most iconic women in the world, Kylie Minogue continues to stay in the public eye, a place she has been for over 25 years. she is a celebrated multi-award winning music artist, fashion icon, actress, entrepreneur and philanthropist. Inspirational Magazine takes a look at the life and career of Kylie and examines the secrets behind her success and longevity.

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

Kylie Minogue continues to show that she deserves her place as one of the biggest stars on the planet. She has proven herself to be an inspiration to generations of people and continues to achieve recognition with everything she turns her considerable talent to.

With 11 albums and 50 singles which have achieved international acclaim, she shows no sign of slowing down her musical output. It is her productivity and consistency that have brought her brilliant success and made her such an inspirational figure. She was born on 28th May 1968 in Melbourne, Australia and was the eldest of three children. She was an enthusiastic performer from a very young age and her first major step towards fame was in 1986 when she was cast in the hugely popular Australian soap opera, Neighbours, opposite Jason Donovan. Millions followed the young love story between her character Charlene Mitchell and Scott Robinson, played by Donovan. Despite the beginings of a successful acting career her first foray into the music business set her on a pathway to international stardom. Her debut single â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Loco-Motionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; spent seven weeks at the top of the Australian charts and became the biggest selling single of the 1980s in the country. Her initial success was not confined to her native country for too long. In 1988 her debut album, Kylie, stormed into the UK charts and became the first record by a female solo artist to sell more than two million copies. Today, she has achieved the UK record for the most played female artist on British radio over the past 20 years and thousands have flocked to see her live shows at some of the biggest venues around the country. Many of her songs are ingrained in the national psyche and are instantly recognisable to millions of people.

This enormous level of popularity spread from the UK and Australia to Asia and Europe and she has remained a household name ever since. Today, she is contemplating the release of her twelfth studio album which is set to help keep her status as one of the biggest pop icons in the world.

This enormous level of popularity spread from the UK and Australia to Asia and Europe and she has remained a household name ever since. She has achieved the difficult balance of keeping her existing fans happy whilst continuing to attract new followers. Few stars have managed to achieve her long-lasting and enduring success and she takes her place with a select group of artists, including Elton John and Madonna, to have achieved number one hits in the eighties, nineties and noughties.

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

Her chart-topping hits include ‘I Should Be So Lucky’, ‘Spinning Around’, ‘Slow’ and ‘Can’t Get You out of My Head’. These are just four tracks off an extensive list of songs that have made her name so memorable. It was the latter of these singles that finally gained her the acclaim she deserved in the US and proved she could be popular all over the world. She is one of the most recognisable faces in the country and has won countless awards that have acknowledged her musical talent. Fans and critics alike have celebrated the consistently high quality of music that she has produced over the years. One of the most celebrated aspects of her success is her ability to adapt and change to meet current trends whilst maintaining her own unique style. She has experimented with her musical output and has refused to stay still and risk becoming a figure of the part. Her ability to experiment with contrasting musical styles and fuse together different genres is one of her best attributes as a performer. She has always favoured taking a risk over releasing the same type of music over and over again. Kylie is much more than just a pop icon and has proven herself in a number of other fields. She has acted in acclaimed films such as Moulin Rouge and The Delinquents, written popular books like Kylie/ Fashion released in 2012 and has designed her own range of home interior products. She is a fantastic role model and has shown that she has wonderful entrepreneurial spirit.

She has appeared on the cover of a range of popular magazine titles including Cosmopolitan, OK!, Hello and GQ and publishers have turned to her time and time again when looking for the perfect cover figure.

The point of my job is to entertain and make it look easy, so I guess it’s the parts you don’t often see which make me feel proud She has a very positive outlook on her career so far, though not without a few doubts. She said: “The point of my job is to entertain and make it look easy, so I guess it’s the parts you don’t often see which make me feel proud. All the behind the scenes work, the fears and insecurities I have to face and overcome to improve myself as a person and performer, all of the people who believe in me and encourage me.”

The decision to make this personal battle well known to the public was made because she knew how much it would make people think about their own health. She also raised huge amounts of money through organisations like ‘Fashion Targets Breast Cancer’ in order to help sufferers of the disease and to ensure more research would be done into finding new treatments. Philanthropy has always been a big part of her life and she has campaigned and raised huge amounts of money for charity throughout her career. She has released charity singles including ‘Do They Know Its Christmas?’ and ‘Everybody Hurts’ to raise money and awareness for a variety of different causes. She has also supported charities such as the NSPCC and has used her profile wherever she can to support causes that are close to her heart. Her warmth and kindness has set her apart from other performers. Few artists can boast the same level of long-lasting popularity and wealth of success that Kylie has experienced. She is a professional and intelligent global superstar who has a sparking past and extremely bright future. Kylie looks set to stay at the top for a while yet.

Kylie has worked well with the public, never shying away from her fame or turning her back on her fans. She endeared herself to many people when she raised awareness of breast cancer after suffering the disease herself.

About Rado “If we can imagine it, we can make it”. Innovative design and high-tech scratch-resistant materials are the essential distinguishing marks of the Rado brand. As a leader in the top-ofthe-range market, Rado has become famous throughout the entire world for its research into materials science. It is the use of sapphire, ceramics, and even high-tech diamond that creates the strong, unique character of the Rado watch. Rado’s design concepts draw their inspiration from the intrinsic qualities of the materials used. For Rado, form is intimately linked to more intangible values, and the brand is as ever committed to the quest for outstanding new ideas. This philosophy of surpassing oneself and of constantly pushing the boundaries of possibility has been rewarded with numerous international design prizes. Since 1957, Rado’s story has been marked by a prodigious number of pioneering innovations. The brand continues to develop new materials and the new technology required to shape them. Hardness and durability remain key material requirements, while practicality and wearer comfort are the focus of Rado design.

The New Rado HyperChrome Collection The new Rado HyperChrome collection represents a step forward in design for the Swiss master of materials. Optimum comfort and a streamlined, fluid case construction with specially developed, sleek side inserts, combine to bring a flash of brilliance to even the most discerning of wrists. A total of 32 different models in the collection with a choice of quartz or automatic movements ensure that the Rado HyperChrome is as versatile as watch lovers’ styles and tastes are diverse.

Rose and yellow gold coloured elements in high-tech ceramic give these steel models an eye-catching shine.

The collection’s stand out models are super sleek, sporty chronographs with 45mm high-tech ceramic monobloc cases. Ultra-lightweight, seriously scratch-resistant and dangerously desirable, they are available in black, white and platinum-look plasma treated high-tech ceramic. Streamlined and subtle but still elegantly eye-catching, the Rado HyperChrome is the ultimate all day, every occasion timepiece. Whether you usually wear a tracksuit or a business suit, if you’re into haute couture or high-street style, there is an ideal watch in the collection for you. Specially designed for ladies, there are smaller date models embellished with diamonds on the bezel or the dial – definitely a girl’s best friend. From blue dials to rose and yellow gold coloured bracelet links, hands and bezels, the Rado HyperChrome collection also offers a daring dash of colour to the matt or metallic backgrounds. The Rado HyperChrome: high-tech materials, ground-breaking technology and good looks come together in equal measure for maximum visual impact.

The high-tech ceramic models in the Rado HyperChrome Collection have ground-breaking monobloc cases.

beauty, health and lifestyle

WE ARE FLYING HIGH Come and join us…

Over the past 25 years, Eurojet Aviation has grown to become one of the leading private jet charter and management companies in Europe. It is their job and their passion to deliver an unrivalled level of service and efficient travel solutions to a wide range of clients, including sports personalities, celebrities, entrepreneurs, and multi-national corporations. Now Eurojet have even more to offer… They have built their reputation on going that extra mile for their clients and they have been rewarded with long lasting, loyal relationships. When flying with Eurojet, clients can choose from a range of the highest standard aircraft available on the market today. This company is constantly looking at new ways to improve on the service they provide, which is why they have recently taken management of a new Cessna Citation XLS+. This fantastic addition to the already impressive Eurojet fleet offers even more flying options to their clients. Along with the largest cabin in its class, the Cessna Citation XLS+ brings first-class luxury to all eight passengers, including WIFI and fully reclining leather seats offer optimal comfort. Eurojet Aviation Managing Director Graeme Campbell said: “Private jet travel takes you away from the often stressful and restricted scheduled airline timetables. It isn’t surprising that increased check-in times, heightened security checks and privacy

invasions have encouraged more leisure travellers to turn to private air travel as a hassle-free and flexible alternative. Our staff will ensure that you arrive promptly, ready to enjoy your romantic break, hit the slopes on a family ski holiday or prepared to take the lead in an important board meeting.” For those who are passionate about travelling in style, Eurojet has a Turnkey Executive Aircraft Management (TEAM) package that offers a one-stop option for potential owners of their own aircraft. The Eurojet TEAM service sources, negotiates, purchases, manages and operates any private jet on the behalf of clients - smoothly navigating through the complex procedures based on 25 years’ industry experience. Each aircraft is assigned an account manager to ensure the aircraft operates to the owners requirements. Crewing, accounts, administration, maintenance, co-ordination and 24/7 support are just some of the services taken care of from the company’s trained operations team. Eurojet Aviation operates over $100m worth of aircraft, flying their clients to thousands of destinations throughout the world. Recently they have opened the Business Aviation Centre at Birmingham Airport – a 41,000 sq ft facility, which includes a spacious lounge and hospitality area for clients. In the wake of this opening, their commitment to excellence has been recognised and they have just been shortlisted for a 2013 BACA Excellence Award.

Passenger cabin of the luxurious Cessna Citation XLS+

The XLS+ boasts the highest-quality finishings and materials

Client facilities at Eurojet are of the very highest standard

Eurojet Business Aviation Centre at Birmingham International

In addition to offering private jet charter services, the company also specialises in aircraft sales, acquisition, management and private jet maintenance.

For further information and reservations, contact Eurojet Aviation on

0845 465 0550 or log on to

www.eurojet.eu.com 19

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

Experience something special.. My fondest childhood memories include many trips to our local tearoom with my favourite grandmother. I can still hear the chink of the silver teaspoons stirring sugar lumps into steaming hot tea poured from silver teapots, the hushed voices punctuated by laughter as friends and families exchanged stories over sandwiches and cakes, and the beautiful music playing quietly in the background.

The highlight of this very special treat was always the arrival of the cake trolley creaking with an abundance of freshly baked cakes as it was wheeled over by kindly waitresses clad in black and white uniforms. These precious memories were well and truly stirred on a recent visit to Gillian Wesley and the Catwalk Cafe in Knowle. This quaint business, sited in an old Victorian haberdashery shop, marries a fashion themed cafe with an in-house design studio and boutique. This unique cafe, complete with sweeping red catwalk carpet, is just the place to meet for coffee, catch up over lunch, or treat someone special to a divine afternoon tea. Unfamiliar with Knowle, I investigated the website prior to my visit and was delighted to find six free car parks all within easy walking distance of the Catwalk Cafe. Located just off the high street this unusual business was easy to identify by its corset image painted on the side of the cottage-like building. The shop windows were captivating with corset-clad mannequins sporting skirts of cascading chiffon. Vintage... with a modern twist! I bravely pushed open the shop door as an old fashioned tearoom bell announced my arrival. My hesitation was completely swept aside by a smiling

waitress dressed in a traditional black and white uniform. Once inside the full impact of this jaw dropping venue hit me. The sweeping red catwalk carpet is complemented by vintage style black and white floor tiles. With exposed brickwork and vintage furniture completing the look. The cafe stood right infront of me, with an enticing boutique to the right. The warm welcome continued as I was guided to my table and I immediately knew this was going to be an enjoyable experience. I sat alongside what I can only describe as a Victorian style arcade shop. Peering through the glass into what must have been the original haberdashery shop, I could see a collection of wedding dresses that looked as if they had come straight off the set of Downton Abbey! Something else caught my eye in the reflection of the glass... a cake trolley! Loaded with home baked cakes this extravaganza was a sight to behold! My eyes couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t help but follow it as it was wheeled from table to table. I noted with interest that it was even possible to have a little slice of everything! Oh boy! I ordered a glass of Champagne and the daily special... Seafood Linguine, and continued to digest all that I saw

around me. A business meeting between two ladies was taking place on the table behind me. An elegant afternoon tea stood proudly in the centre of the table on a three tier cake stand. Mismatched vintage china and a silver teapot completed this very charming picture of British nostalgia. The beautifully presented staff were discreetly attentive. I asked what type of customers frequented the Catwalk Cafe. “Anyone” the waitress said, “from couples, friends, family groups, business associates to groups of girls holding baby showers or upmarket pre wedding celebrations. We even hire the venue out on Sunday afternoons for Christenings and family gatherings”. I should point out that whilst obviously being a popular choice for ladies, the men were well catered for too. At the time of my visit, several men, having no doubt secured considerable brownie points for their choice of lunch venue with their other halves, were now relaxing over a beer and the daily newspaper, while their ladies browsed the quirky boutique and gift shop. It struck me as the ultimate in stress free Christmas shopping! At three o’clock the background music and the black and white movies playing on the TV screen behind the counter were switched off, and a young lady dressed in

forties attire stepped up to the microphone. An hour of 1940’s classics followed, which was met by rapturous applause by those enjoying their afternoon teas. What a very special afternoon this was proving to be!

Afternoon tea gift vouchers available online

More questioning of the staff revealed that while the French trained chef produces all of the dishes and home baked cakes, upstairs in the studio seamstresses are creating unique one off Gillian Wesley designs to sell in the boutique. As I poured my tea from the silver teapot into the vintage china cup, my thoughts returned to my grandmother and our weekly trips to the local tearoom. It struck me that this little gem of a business is the perfect antidote for those who are weary of our copycat high streets and manufactured or mass produced goods. I cannot wait to bring my own grandchildren here. I have a feeling that in fifty years time, people will be fondly reminiscing about happy times at the Catwalk Cafe.

Kenilworth Road, Knowle, West Midlands, B93 0JA Opening Hours: Tuesday–Saturday 10am–5pm

www.gillianwesley.co.uk www.catwalk-cafe.co.uk

and The Catwalk Café 21

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

Getting married is one of the most important and exciting decisions of your life. By solidifying your commitment to your partner, you have made a vow to spend the rest of your life together and are ready to share your love with those closest to you. After the initial excitement of engagement, it can often be an overwhelming experience with so many aspects of the big day to cover. Making sure everything is perfect often becomes extremely complicated which is why Inspirational Magazine is on hand to help out. We have hand-picked a stunning selection of luxury products and spectacular services especially for you. Undoubtedly, the more thought you put into planning your big day, the easier your dreams can become a reality. There are many different aspects of your wedding day to consider: the photography, cake, cars, venue, entertainment, rings, honeymoon and the dress, to name just a few. Our guide aims to give you plenty of ideas and make your big day as stress-free as possible. Choosing the ideal venue - a place that will give you a fairytale wedding and forever hold a special place in your heart - is often the starting point. It becomes the backdrop for all of your photos and sees a glorious day turn into a picturesque night. The best venues have a team of staff to give you as much help as you need, offering advice on how to best use the space you have. The perfect wedding dress usually takes a long time to find, but it is one of the most important decisions to make. The finishing touches are often made by your wedding jewellery, complementing your outfit and adding even more elegance. One of the iconic parts of your day, wedding rings, symbolise the promise of never-ending love and loyalty. When your big day is over, your wedding photographs can take you back to experience the magical day again and again. It is very important to take the time to choose a wedding photographer who has the skill and experience to capture the day exactly as you want it remembered; full of joy and happiness. Finally, your dream honeymoon destination is the place you and your partner can go to relax in luxury and relive your wedding day.

We hope you enjoy our wedding section, and you come away with plenty of ideas for how to make your big day even more special!

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ELIE SAAB, MONIQUE L’HUILLIER, JENNY PACKHAM, TEMPERLEY LONDON, CHARLIE BREAR, ATELIER PRONOVIAS, PRONOVIAS COCKTAIL EXCLUSIVE UK STOCKISTS OF BERTA BRIDAL TO BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT, PLEASE CALL +44 121 440 8276 OR EMAIL THEWEDDINGCLUB@BTINTERNET.COM

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INSP071013 Johnsons Logo Stack 230x285.pdf

05/09/2013

16:44

Within every piece of Clogau jewellery is a touch of the same rare Welsh gold as used by British Royalty for over 100 years.

One Of the mOst enduring symbOls Of f marriage, the wedding ring traditiOnally represents never-ending lOve, lOyalty and devOtiOn. thOugh the exact Origins rigins are unknOwn, many believe that they date back thOusands Of years tO ancient sOcieties cieties acrOss the glObe. Though wedding rings are not specifically mentioned in the Bible, references exist to suggest that they stem from traditional Hebrew practices when it was customary for the family of a prospective groom to give gifts to the potential bride and her family. Others believe the custom of giving rings dates back to the ancient Egyptians when papyrus and reeds were twisted into decorative ornaments to be worn on the body. The tradition of wearing wedding rings on the third finger of the left hand also has origins in ancient society. In ancient Greece it was believed that an artery from the third finger led directly to the heart. Though this has proven to be false, it is a romantic explanation nonetheless. Less so is the use of rings in Roman times when they represented ownership rather than love and commitment. In Christian wedding ceremonies, rings began being used in 870 A.D, though they were much more highly decorated than today; often with images of doves or linked hands carved into them. It has been suggested that rings are traditionally placed on the third finger as during the traditional marriage ceremony, the priest would say ‘In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit..’ counting each digit from the thumb, before landing on the third finger. Although wedding rings date back hundreds - even thousands - of years, they were almost exclusively worn by women until relatively recently. Double-ring ceremonies were almost unheard of until 1940 during the Second World War, when men began to wear them to remind them of their wives back home. According to an October 1953 story in Hobbies, in the 1930’s only about 15% of wedding ceremonies included a ring for the groom. After the start of World War II, the percentage jumped to 60%, and then to 70% after the start of the Korean War. The fact that both men and women often wear wedding rings nowadays also points to the advancement of women’s rights in the last century, and that marriage is a much more of an equal partnership than ever before. In modern times, as well as being a social symbol, wedding rings are extremely personal with a huge variety of different designs and styles now available. Though the precise origins of the wedding ring are mysterious, it is universally recognised as a symbol of the unity of marriage. The unbroken circle has no beginning or end and so represents eternal love and everlasting commitment. The space in the middle has also been said to signify a doorway to the future – unknown, and full of possibilities.

The Finest Bridal & Eternity Rings www.theraphaelcollection.com

D–G VVS–VS Quality Diamonds

— Platinum 18 Carat Palladium 950

— Over 1,200 Designs

Exclusively available at JOHNSONS JEWELLERS One of the largest collections of wedding rings in West Midlands. — Personal service by experienced and trained staff. — Enjoy choosing your wedding rings in our dedicated wedding ring area with a relaxing cup of coffee.

…and introducing

The Stunning New Engagement Ring Collection

The PerfecT WeDDING IN LeIcesTershIre’s MosT IcoNIc s TaT e Ly h o M e Surrounded by 500 acres of Capability Brown landscaped grounds, Stapleford Park country house is one of England’s most romantic venues for a dream country wedding reception. Nestled away in the heart of the Leicestershire countryside, the beautiful venue hosts weddings with their own dedicated team ready to plan and cater to the guest’s every need.

Several stunning dining rooms are open for the wedding breakfast. The Grand Hall, with elegant crystal chandeliers and views of the formal gardens, is the perfect room for larger parties of up to 180 guests. For more intimate weddings, the Old Kitchen or the Harborough Room provides guests with a warm and elegant ambience.

Stapleford Park’s own dedicated wedding co-ordinators work with their clients to ensure that every part of their special day is expertly organised. They will be on hand from the moment the wedding is booked and can advise on colour schemes, menus, flowers, entertainment and much, much more. Ensuring that nothing is overlooked, the wedding co-ordinator can recommend a wide variety of entertainment to complement the day, from a lively band to a disco followed by a fantastic firework display to finish off the evening perfectly.

There are a variety of packages available to suit each wedding party’s individual requirements. Depending on personal preference and budget, the Ruby, Sapphire and Diamond packages cover each aspect of the wedding day including the reception, wedding breakfast, a stay for the bride and groom in one of the individually designed bedrooms and menu tasting for the bridal couple, presented by the head chef. Also available are the Winter Wedding Packages which are suitable for 80 guests.

Guests are invited to enjoy each luxurious aspect of the venue including the historic country house, exceptional Championship 18-hole golf course and Clarins Gold Salon, lifestyle club and spa facilities. Superb tennis courts, swimming pool, croquet lawn and Technogym are also all available for use. For the brides and bridesmaids, the fully trained make-up artist is on hand to put the finishing touches to their wedding outfit. For the groom, the challenging Championship 18-hole golf course, designed by Donald Steel, is one of England’s finest and is the perfect place to lose those pre-wedding nerves. Other available activities include clay pigeon shooting, archery and falconry.

Stapleford Park offers the house for exclusive use and allows the bridal couple to be Lord and Lady for the day. Ideal for creating a special occasion with loved ones, exclusive use guarantees a beautifully intimate affair. Larger weddings can be catered for with the use of a marquee within the beautiful grounds of the house.

The opulent surroundings provide an idyllic setting for moments to treasure for a lifetime. Stapleford Park’s own Church of St Mary Magdalene, built in the 18th century by the fourth Earl of Harborough, is available on site. Its tall, gracious tower and entrance carvings make for a majestic church and the ideal location for an intimate wedding service. Larger weddings can equally be catered for at The Orangery which is available for up to 150 guests.

The team at Stapleford Park is dedicated to ensuring that every aspect of the wedding day is perfect for the couple and their guests. It is a truly stunning venue that provides magical weddings all year round and ensures a spectacular day and many wonderful memories.

For further information, please contact: Stapleford Park, Stapleford, nr. Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire LE14 2EF Telephone: 01572 787079 Email: sales@stapleford.co.uk or visit www.staplefordpark.com

D AZZLING Diamonds

PD1019 - £750

PD1022 - £825

ED1005 - £900

Go to www.dazzlingdiamonds.net and see the “dazzle” come alive. PD1035 - £975

PD1001 - £1,200

ED1001 - £1,650

*All prices in 18KT & price does not include chains

ED1011 - £1,200

Antonia Doyle Photography

Beautiful Images to Treasure Forever Capturing the unique spirit and personality of each and every one of her subjects, Antonia offers her clients a relaxing and enjoyable photography experience. A highly skilled photographer, she offers a wide range of different options, from informal portraiture to candid and lively shots, capturing the essence of a wide range of events and celebrations. Building personal relationships with her clients allows Antonia to capture them at their very best, creating beautiful, relaxed photography that is the true embodiment of their individuality, whether for family portrait, wedding or as part of a larger event. Offering bespoke wedding packages, Antonia takes a variety of images throughout the day, capturing the joy of the occasion and providing the bride and groom with a collection of priceless memories. She also employs her unique style at a wide range of corporate events, liaising with the organisations involved to provide a collection of images that are both true to the event and useful business tools.

Antonia understands the needs of her customers and is able to work to tight deadlines often required in the commercial environment. She is the official photographer for Champions (UK) plc. Antonia’s corporate clients are able to benefit from her dedicated services and use images of their offices, portraits of their staff or lively snapshots of corporate events to ensure that their brochures are high impact and their websites engaging, allowing their clients a more personal insight into the services they offer. Her personal approach sees her work with clients time and time again, recording important occasions in their lives or covering their corporate events and they speak highly of both her skill and style: “Antonia is an excellent photographer. I have known her and her work for more than 20 years. She has a great personality, which brings out the best in the subjects she is working with. I am a fellow photographer and highly rate her work. She manages to produce very relaxed and natural photographs. I would strongly recommend her for hire.” - Gary Brown, Global Head of Service Transition at Nomura, Hong Kong

A truly refreshing approach to professional photography, Antonia creates beautiful images that are perfect for each of her different clients, reassuring them and using her intuitive knowledge of what it is that they want from their photography to take shots that now have pride of place in a huge number of homes and businesses all over the country.

Antonia Doyle Photography Contact Antonia Doyle on info@antoniadoylephotography.com or call 07768 19 38 49 for perfect photography, whatever the occasion. www.antoniadoylephotography.com

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

SWINFEN HALL HOTEL The perfect venue for your

dream wedding

Every wedding should be unique and memorable – no question about that, but what will give your wedding that real WOW factor? Exclusivity may be the answer. Imagine your wedding party being the only guests in a magnificent hotel set in beautiful grounds. Swinfen Hall Hotel, a beautiful Grade II* Georgian mansion in Lichfield has 100 acres of historic park land incorporating formal gardens, ornamental ponds and a wild deer park, and only 18 bedrooms and suites so, if you have family and friends who need accommodation, exclusive use becomes a very viable option. So what’s the attraction of an exclusive-use wedding? For some people, including many celebrities, it’s the privacy and security. They have complete control of the guest list, the timings and the press. For others it’s the sheer luxury of being Lord and Lady of the Manor for the day with the entire staff devoted to your every whim, whilst some are tempted by the practical benefits of the additional space and the freedom to do as you please.

This might include creating a crèche or children’s entertainment room in the private dining room, putting a casino in the bar or using the cocktail lounge as a quiet refuge for older guests during the evening party. Or how about an evening hog roast in the gardens, a stunning firework display as evening draws on or a jazz band on the terrace.

Sounds good so far but how does Swinfen fare in terms of service? As an AA Inspectors Choice Red Star hotel, there is a recognised high level of professionalism and commitment, but as an independent hotel with a long-serving and enthusiastic management team, you are assured real understanding and genuine warmth from start to finish.

You might also consider a quiet family dinner the night before, and a private breakfast the morning after, for some special time with family and friends.

SWINFEN NR. LICHFIELD, STAFFORDSHIRE WS14 9RE 32

With the entire hotel and grounds at your disposal, the options are endless and you can create a very original and individual wedding that reflects both your personality and your dreams.

If you would like to know more about weddings at Swinfen Hall Hotel, please contact Ruth the Weddings Manager or Stuart the Operations Manager, who will be happy to run through the options and arrange a showround.

TEL: 01543 481 494

WWW.SWINFENHALLHOTEL.CO.UK

Situated in the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, In Bloom is an independent florist, specialising in creating bouquets and arrangements that provide something a bit special.

87 Vyse Street, Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham, B18 6JZ Telephone: 0121 554 4435 Mobile: 07799 690 648

www.inbloomflowers.co.uk

Restoring appearance & confidence

Fresh Flowers Daily @MKardashian: Thank you very much for my gorgeous brow tattoo @cathybbeauty... I LOVE THEM!! @toniwarne: @cathybbeauty Hello wonderful ‘eyebrow lady’ they’re looking good!!! @sarahjaynedunn: @cathybbeauty @ Dermaspa_UK loving my eyes & lip liner xxx @MissIntGB2013: Huuuuuge thank you to @cathybbeauty and her team for such a lovely day yesterday #eyebrows #lashes #facial #ALift

SEMI PERMANENT MAKEUP Telephone: 0121 308 3265 Mobile: 07967 156782 Web: www.cathy-brown.com Unit 9, Mitchell’s Craft Centre, Sutton Coldfield

@harleystbeauty: @cathybbeauty jodie&naomi love your work Cathy!! If your thinking of semi- permanent makeup ladies please Contact @ cathybbeauty @Dermaspa_UK @CC_Kat: @cathybbeauty Midlands best.

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

B A R B A D O S

Own a Piece of Paradise Live in the lap of luxury at Royal Westmoreland, the most sought-after address in Barbados

Award Winning Luxury Villas $1.2 to $5m (USD) Discover complete peace, privacy and the luxurious lifestyle dreams are made of within our lush 750 acre gated community. Your very own piece of paradise where award winning golf, beach club, elite concierge, spa and tennis are yours to enjoy.

Barbados (246) 422 4653 UK +44 (0)1524 782649 www.royalwestmoreland.com 37

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

Do white sand beaches, sparkling clear waters, local and fine cuisine, exciting nightlife, world class shopping and a location rich in cultural history sound enticing? Welcome to our Barbados. Carolyn and Wilfred O’Dell are the husband and wife team of BarbadosBarbados.com. We are island residents who love nothing more than to share our insider’s knowledge of Barbados. Our discerning clients expect efficient, personal attention to their travel needs and we provide an effortless vacation experience from beginning to end.

Daily commute

With an extensive range of holiday rental properties in all price ranges, the options and flexibility are endless. Each property is personally selected because it fulfils only the very highest criteria guided by our personal and uncompromising standards. Choose from well-appointed apartments and beachfront villas to luxurious penthouses and world-class private estates. Many are fully staffed and all well equipped with everything required for a relaxing and truly enjoyable stay. Allow us to arrange your airport transfers, car hire, restaurant reservations, or organise events and activities for you. Enjoy a private catamaran charter, deep sea fishing, learn to surf or scuba dive or visit the island’s many interesting and historic attractions. Our Concierge and Trip Planning services are complimentary. BarbadosBarbados.com unlocks the secret to the very best Barbados experience. We look forward to welcoming you to our island home where summer never ends.

Understated oppulence

Romantic escape

Beachfront luxury

Golfing holiday

For more information, please visit

www.barbadosbarbados.com Dining on the water

www.facebook.com/BarbadosBarbados

Casual elegance

MAhI MAhI SUITE To B AG o l U x U R Y h o l I d AY A C C o M M o d AT I o N

An IdyllIc

BEACHSIDE CArIBBEAn rEtrEAt A luxurious Caribbean paradise offering an ultimate retreat for honeymooners, families, or up to three couples, the luxuriously furnished secure Mahi Mahi Suite sits on one of the most romantic beachside locations in the world. Nestled in its own private gardens on the warm sands of the extensive Grafton Beach, the first floor corner apartment offers breathtaking views and sunsets over the emerald waters of Stonehaven Bay. From enjoying breakfast on the elegant balcony to an afternoon’s rest in the sumptuous suite’s décor, the apartment is a delightful Caribbean Eden that you’ll never want to leave. You can swim, snorkel, boogie-board, stroll on the beach, or relax with a book by the garden pool. For a romantic lunch or dinner, renowned restaurants and cafés such as the famous Seahorse Inn and Fish Pot Restaurant are just minutes walk away. Watching the birds feeding as the sun rises over the Grafton Caledonia Bird Sanctuary or the occasional visiting nocturnal turtle are magical experiences, uniquely Tobago. It is also the perfect place from which to explore the stunning natural beauty and wildlife of the rainforest and its scenic coastline, or enjoy other Caribbean specialities like the Sunday school food-fair at Buccoo Reef with steelband accompaniment. Free airport transfers, welcome pack, maid service, full air conditioning, and wifi are provided. For more information about the Mahi Mahi Suite, prices, availability and booking please visit:

TobagoBeachApartment.com For an independent review go to www.mytobago.info/reviews/mahi_mahi_suite.php

UK contact information:

MahiMahi@ TobagoBeachApartment.com Telephone: 07544 051 991 Email:

Still open, still luxurious, as we build you a better Mailbox.

Bar Epernay • Bar Estilo • Bar Room Bar • Café Rouge • Caffe Gusto • Côte Brasserie • Gourmet Burger Kitchen • Harvey Nichols Espresso Café • Harvey Nichols Perrier Jouët Champagne Bar Malmaison Brasserie • Miller & Carter • Nando’s • Pennyblacks • Pizza Express • Red Peppers • Strada • The Oriental • Zizzi • Ramada Hotel

revamped, redeveloped and revolutionary

beauty, health and lifestyle

birMinghaM’s PreMier luxury retail anD lifestyle Destination the Mailbox is gearing uP for a Major refurbishMent that will see it raDically transforMeD for 2015. stirling Prize winning architects stanton williaMs are heaDing uP the reDeveloPMent which will see the entire retail Mall encloseD anD skylit to create an urban rooM with facaDes, finishes anD store frontages. L.K. Bennett, Jaeger and Gieves and Hawkes are among the brands already set to return to the shopping centre in 2015, and Harvey Nichols will more than double in size to 45,000 sq ft, firmly establishing themselves at the heart of the premises. The exciting development will capitalise upon available daylight and allow for innovative and intelligent store design, tailored toward the demands of Harvey Nichols’ customers. The space that Harvey Nichols will move into has recently hosted their seasonal fashion shows as the main attraction for the city’s inaugural style and shopping event - Style Birmingham Live. In preparation for the works, Mailbox retailers in the central mall area have closed although major stores Harvey Nichols, Emporio Armani and Toni and Guy Essensuals will remain open alongside the bars, restaurants, hotels, commercial offices and car park. Nicky Clarke has relocated from the central mall to a brand new salon on Level 7. Working closely alongside Birmingham City Council, The Mailbox will introduce a new, improved pedestrian friendly public realm reaching from the underpass beneath Suffolk Street Queensway to the very front of The Mailbox. Melanie Taylor, Head of Leasing at Milligan, development partner and joint owner of The Mailbox, said: “The original developers created a prestigious shopping and lifestyle destination. Our goal is to strengthen this vision and to see The Mailbox realise its full potential, with the customers’ needs at its very heart. “The city has a great sense of optimism and pride towards what is home to The BBC and the destination that originally brought Harvey Nichols to Birmingham back in 2001. The restaurants and hotels in particular are well liked by Birmingham and its visitors. Our future plans will see the environment of the building transformed whilst bringing a unique collection of brands to Birmingham.”

revamped, redeveloped and revolutionary DaviD ParDoe, retail Manager at the Mailbox saiD: “As with any major refurbishment, changes are taking place ahead of work starting on site, but we are committed to ensuring disruption is kept to a minimum for our customers and residents. Many people work in offices at the The Mailbox and regularly use the car park so we will ensure that it is business as usual for them too. “The Mailbox remains one of Birmingham’s most popular lifestyle destinations, with our bars and restaurants offering one of the best spots for al fresco dining in the city. “With our key anchor stores remaining open and a programme of events and activity whilst the refurbishment takes place, there is still plenty for visitors to enjoy at The Mailbox.” The Mailbox is committed to keeping people updated on all changes as they are happening with the brand new website www.mailboxlife.com which reports all the latest news about the mall and its redevelopment.

beauty, health and lifestyle

Marking their 25th anniversary, Clothes Show Live 2013 is set to be the hottest ticket on the fashion calendar this year.

From 6-10 December 2013, over 500 leading fashion and beauty brands, non-stop catwalk shows, gorgeous celebrities, tempting bars, and inspirational fashion demonstrations will all be spread over five exciting days.

Offering something for everyone, this is certainly a fashion show not to be missed. Held in the stunning ALCATEL ONE TOUCH Fashion Theatre, you can watch in awe as more than 40 models and dancers showcase the latest high-street, designer, boutique and couture fashion collections on the world’s largest catwalk. The show will be hosted by fashion icon and designer Henry Holland who will ensure that you will be immersed in the ultimate fashion festival!

Why not recreate your favourite catwalk styles with the help of our industry experts? Find the tools and techniques to shimmer, shine and gloss with make-overs, style transformations and inspirational trend reports all under one roof. This is the place to shop ‘til you drop and discover your perfect party outfit from the top fashion and beauty brands on offer. Keep your eyes peeled for some familiar faces at the show for a chance to get snapped with all your favourite celebrities.

The star-studded event will also see the launch of Take Me Out Live, hosted by the king of dating, Paddy McGuinness. Britain and Ireland’s Next Top Model will also bring TV to the stage as this year’s contestants will be giving the inside scoop on model life, holding exclusive autograph sessions, and strutting their stuff on the catwalk in their first public appearance since the show. Learn the tips and tricks of the industry in a Model Masterclass and look out for casting opportunities as the big names in fashion scout the crowds for emerging talent.

You can buy tickets to this incredible event by visiting the website clothesshowlive.com or calling 0844 5811 256 For group bookings of 10+ please visit: clothesshowlive.com/group or call 0800 358 0058

STANDARD TICKET PLATINUM TICKET

NUS STUDENT TICKET

£28 £40

includes entrance to Clothes Show Live and a dedicated seat in the ALCATEL ONE TOUCH Fashion Theatre. includes entrance to the Show, fast track entry and a platinum seat in ALCATEL ONE TOUCH Fashion Theatre, Plus, Official Show Guide and Show Bag filled with fantastic goodies.

£25

includes entry to Clothes Show Live and a dedicated seat in the ALCATEL ONE TOUCH Fashion Theatre. Only with a valid NUS card which must be shown on entrance.

/ClothesShow @Clothesshow

For more information, visit the Clothes Show Live website: www.clothesshowlive.com

Still open, still luxurious, as we build you a better Mailbox.

beauty, health and lifestyle

Strike

It’s all about the Midas touch this season as gold, glitter and glitz ensures you’ll brighten up any festive party.

gold

LISA PIDDINGTON from Harvey Nichols picks her favourite pieces that guarantee you’ll outshine the competition.

Philip Armstrong Metallic skater dress £855

Alexander McQueen Leather box clutch £1,145

Alexander McQueen Skull bracelet £135

Alice and Olivia Jumper £395

Butter London Nail lacquer - West End Wonderland £12

Iosselliani Crystal necklace £310

Kenzo Brocade trousers £345

McQ Alexander McQueen Pencil Skirt £175

Giuseppe Zanotti Metallic pumps £405

Osman Floral brocade dress £835

Raoul Leather-trimmed brocade dress £342

Versace Collection Dress £445

Versace Studded dress £185

Products featured are available from Harvey Nichols at The Mailbox. Selected items are available via Harvey Nichols Click & Collect – ask in store for more details. 47

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

Michael Kors Leather Tote

£285

Paul Smith Black Smith

Armand de Brignac

£450

Ace of Spades Rosé NV Champagne

£450

FOR BIRMINGHAM

Christian Lacroix Printed notebook

£15

Loimu

OPI

Mulled Wine

Nail Lacquer

£18

£11.50

All items featured are available from Harvey Nichols Birmingham.

Emma J Shipley Printed Silk Scarf

£275

Juicy Couture

Paul Smith

Viva Noir EDP

Black Jumper

£180

£35 (30ml)

The allure of the perfectly judged present cannot be underestimated and HARvEy NIcHOls knows how to strike the right balance between innate luxury and refined style.

HER

V73 Printed Canvas Tote

£220

Whatever your budget, the luxury store has the perfect selection of Christmas gift ideas.

Christian Louboutin Suede Peep-toe Shoes

£695

Harvey Nichols Riot of Colour Hamper

from £50

All items featured are available from Harvey Nichols Birmingham.

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

Givenchy

Brian Lichtenberg

Kenzo

Sweatshirt

Embroidered Jumper

£530

£105

£225

FOR BIRMINGHAM

Alexander McQueen Leather Wallet

£340

Gucci Made to Measure EDT

£49 (50ml)

Harvey Nichols Dandy Hamper

£75

All items featured are available from Harvey Nichols Birmingham.

Harvey Nichols Penguin Gingerbread Cookie

Harvey Nichols

£3.95

Late-bottled Vintage Port

£18.50

Spoil the man in your life with a specially selected gift that’s guaranteed to bring a smile to the face of even dear ol’ Ebenezer.

HIM

Paul Smith Scarf

£95

Here are our favourite festive men’s must-haves from HARvEy NIcHOls Birmingham.

Kenzo

Paul Smith

Backpack

Wash Bag

£450

£110

All items featured are available from Harvey Nichols Birmingham.

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

Pop/dance princess Beth Sherburn is quickly taking the music world by storm with her stunning singing voice and fantastically catchy songs. Her most recent hit song ‘Overload’ charted higher than Example, Will.i.am and Britney Spears in the official UK Club Charts. Beth has enjoyed extensive media coverage across many of the major newspapers, and strong radio support from Capital FM and various BBC Regional Stations. Originally discovered singing along to Michael Bublé’s ‘Christmas’ album whilst working at department store Debenhams, the past 6 months have been a dream come true for Beth Sherburn. She worked on her debut album with Jud Mahoney & John McLaughlin, who between them they have worked with Calvin Harris, Michael Jackson, Busted and Lawson.

Beth has been passionate about music from an early age, taking piano and singing lessons when she was younger. Entering competitions nationwide, she performed in world-class venues including the Royal Albert Hall, Birmingham NIA and MEN. Inspired by Kylie Minogue and Britney Spears, her sound is full of edgy lyrics and attitude. Starting off with lyrics, she quickly adds the melody, using the piano to sound out any ideas. Beth’s most recent single is instant dancefloor classic ‘Overload’. The video was shot in Alicante at some of the most scenic locations and beaches around the local area. The team behind the video were the same behind mega-budget videos from the likes of Kelly Rowland, Pitbull and Will.i.am. ‘Overload’ comes hot on the heels of her huge club anthems ‘Feels Like I Can Fly’ and cover of Duran Duran’s ‘Ordinary World’.

Reminiscent of many a feel good 90s club classic complete with a catchy chorus and synth-laden melody, Beth’s fierce vocal ability complements the beat perfectly, giving her music all of the necessary ingredients to become hugely popular. Beth has spent the summer working on her debut album which is set to take the music world by storm. She has already written over 50 tracks and obviously has a huge amount of creativity in her musical output. With a wealth of experience behind her and a natural tenacity to succeed in the music industry there is no doubt that Beth Sherburn is going to be the name on everybody’s lips in the coming months! For more information please visit:

www.bethsherburn.com

EXCLUSIVE

Box of Grey Invites You to Enter a World of British Design and Luxury Kink.

DISCOUNT OFFER CoDe: BXG10

You won’t find Box of Grey in a shop window or a mail

Collaborating with artists across the UK such as Tamzin

tap, leather bound Ostrich plumes and luxurious massage

order catalogue, rather in an evocative hotel room wrapped

Lillywhite, Stuart Wiltshire, Dan Gold and Cocomaya,

candles in a range of glorious scents melt into oil when lit

in a custom built flight case or on a private jet destined for

Box of Grey have created their own exclusive lines:

and poured.

sun, sea and...

leather bedroom accessories, handmade glass ‘wands’

Described as ‘an exciting twist on hand luggage’ by GQ Magazine, Box of Grey offers a range of fantasy-filled

and a heavenly body chocolate body paint from the highest quality Valrhona hazelnut praline.

stunning lockable flight cases which house a picnic of

A range of readymade boxes have been thoughtfully

erotic and sensual treats from award winning suppliers and

designed with different scenarios in mind. The Weekender

their own brand of accessories. ‘The clincher’, GQ quotes,

is about the ‘tease’ and Rouge will put a glow in your

is that Box of Grey’s own ‘cuffs, garters and blindfolds are

cheeks. All of the products are elegant, stylish and highly

made from genuine British bridle leather’.

imaginative - yet the brand maintains a distinctive sense of humour. Quirky treats include the aforementioned glass wands which can be cooled or warmed under a

The inventory has been painstakingly selected for its ambiguity, quality and award winning status. Shoppers can safely open the website, wherever they may be. In February 2014, the glamorously edgy Sanctum Soho Hotel in London’s West End will dedicate a suite to Britain’s sexiest brand. Featuring a stunning collection of images by celebrity photographer Ray Burmiston, room 404 will be renamed The BXG Suite and offer a very ‘private view’ for its future guests.

Box of Grey - A gift that’s guaranteed to surprIsE.

www.boxofgrey.com

CLASSIC HOSPITALITY WITH A MODERN

Stylish, chic and sophisticated, Hotel La Tour made its debut on the UK luxury hotels scene with its fabulous property in Birmingham city centre.

As Head Chef Dan Pearce is joined by new Restaurant and Bar Manager Chris McCaughran, the hotel’s Aalto Restaurant continues to grow its reputation and extend its fanbase of lovers of great food and wine. Setting out to deliver classic hospitality with a modern twist, the brasserie-style Aalto and adjoining Alvar Bar boast an enviable position in the emerging Eastside of the city, a stone’s thrown from Bullring and near neighbours of the award-winning new City Park and established attractions of Millennium Point. Along with Chris and the team, Chef Dan works tirelessly to present a varied menu of dishes. He explained: “We describe our food as classic with a modern twist so our diners will find some dishes they are familiar with, but perhaps presented in a slightly unusual way or developed a little. We like to surprise and delight people but to always produce a plate which is the best example of that dish you have ever tasted. “I don’t like to over-garnish or over-style, but to work with exceptional ingredients and let those speak for themselves.” He adds: “For me, it doesn’t matter if you are cooking in a little café or a fine dining restaurant, it’s critical that you always work with the very best ingredients you can, cook them well and serve great food which represents value for money. I am excited about turning out dishes which are simply executed but are something special on a plate.”

Birmingham continues to build on its gourmet reputation and just recently celebrated the award of an additional Michelin star – taking the city’s tally to four and enhancing its position as the UK city outside of London to boast the most of these coveted accolades. Like many, Dan regards Birmingham’s own Glynn Purnell as the city’s best chef and recently had the honour of presenting a special taster menu to Glynn and his guests at the Chef’s Table at Aalto Restaurant: a memorable dining experience for up to eight people to indulge their love of food and wine and get to spend a little time with our kitchen team. Tempted? – then read on: complementing Aalto Restaurant and Alvar Bar, the hotel (which represents a £24m development for a small, independent and entrepreneurial team) has 174 styishly furnished bedrooms and suites plus an executive conference and events floor, offering great spaces for meetings and other corporate events (maximum capacity 140 delegates), plus banqueting for up to 100 people. Plus, if you can whittle your guest list down to 20 people, Aalto Restaurant has an elegant private dining room where you will enjoy attentive service in exclusive surroundings.

A case in point is Aalto’s celebrated modern take on Surf & Turf – beautifully crisp and flavoursome pork belly with sumptuous scallops and a sharp apple sauce.

Dan Pearce Head Chef

Chris McCaughran Restaurant and Bar Manager

Discover more www.hotel-latour.co.uk 0121 718 8000 Albert Street, Birmingham B5 5JT

Beauty, health & lifestyle

S h o j a - A s s a d i

G r o u p

Highfield Dental Clinic

Founded by husband and wife team Drs Fash and Naz Shoja-Assadi, the Highfield Dental Clinic in Edgbaston was established to provide premier dental care within luxurious surroundings. The vision of the clinic is to make dental visits as relaxing and calming as possible, using the latest technology and ensuring that the cutting-edge dentistry is performed to the highest standard.

With visitors from across the country and even as far afield as Europe, Drâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Assadi take the time to build strong relationships with their patients to make them feel as comfortable as possible. Every patient is treated with compassion and personal attention, whichever treatment they attend the practice to have. Each member of the dedicated team specialise in different areas of dentistry, ensuring that patients are given the best individual advice and treatments tailored to suit their dental needs. The Highfield Dental Clinic offers a wide range of general dental treatments, priding themselves in devoting time and care to educate their patients in the importance of preventative dentistry, Highfield believes the old fashioned value of preventative care is far better than cure and encourage patients to attend six monthly dental reviews.

The clinic also offers a mercury free dental experience, the modern innovative composite fillings are longer-lasting and more natural and tooth like in appearance than ever before. Highfield dental clinic can deliver a smile to be proud of with an extensive range of advanced cosmetic treatments. Dr Fash Assadi who has a special interest in cosmetic dentistry, a rewarding factor is being the creator of their new smile, and being part of his patientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; journey and watching their confidence and self-esteem grow. He graduated in 2002 where he began a five year MSc in General Dental Practice in Birmingham University from which he graduated in 2007. He has since attended extensive courses in aesthetic dentistry to compliment his clinical practice, courses include Lumineers, advanced restorative dentistry, Orthodontics, and Implantology. So whether the patient requires a simple improvement to their smile or a complete smile makeover, Dr Assadi will tailor a treatment plan to suit each individual requirement to achieve the best possible result.

Dr Naz Assadi, Highfieldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s specialist orthodontist, who has also obtained a masters in dental science is proud to offer specialist orthodontic treatments for those patients who would like to straighten their teeth. Dr. N Shoja-Assadi likes to keep on the pulse of the latest Orthodontic treatments. Naturally working to perfection Dr N Shoja-Assadi is held in high esteem by all her patients, both adults and children, during her career she has changed lives for patients who have always hidden their smile behind their hand, giving them a perfect and confident smile to be proud of. As well as dental procedures, the Highfield dental clinic offers Facial Rejuvenation treatments, Dr Richard Vinney heads up the facial rejuvenation clinic which specialises in aesthetic skin treatments with a professional and ethical approach. Without the need for more invasive procedures, the range of treatments reduced signs of aging.

Situated within the Highfield dental clinic is their luxurious beauty suite, Highfieldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s qualified beauty therapist offers a varied range of wellbeing treatments including various massages, facials and microdermabrasion. Here the patients can choose to unwind with a beauty treatment before or after treatments, Indian head massages are popular for those anxious patients to encourage a relaxed feeling prior to dental treatment. Following extensive dental treatments, patients are often offered a complimentary wellbeing treatment to complete that extra special experience at the clinic.

S h o j a - A s s a d i

G r o u p

Highfield Dental Clinic 2 Highfield Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 3ED, United Kingdom Phone: 0121 455 6974 â&#x20AC;˘ www.highfielddental.co.uk

beauty, health and lifestyle

THE

Ultimate

FACIAL

One treatment with “The Hydrafacial Queen” at Medizen in Birmingham offers a red carpet facial that your skin won’t soon forget. Where would you first look if you’re after some TLC for your skin, with a little relaxation along the way? A spa or salon perhaps? We’re always looking for ways to keep our skin youthful, clear and protected against the effects of urban life. But as pampering and unwinding as these treatments can be, the visual results can be a little underwhelming. Inspirational’s Megan Smith tries out Hydrafacial, a revolutionary new treatment that truly makes a difference. A new contender has entered the ring in the fight against a dull, lackluster complexion. Hydrafacial is a remarkable treatment that’s as relaxing as any in-spa facial. This one takes place at MediZen’s award winning cosmetic clinic in Sutton Coldfield, close to Birmingham. Dr. David Eccleston, his wife Annie Eccleston and their team of skin experts have brought confidence to their customers through a range of non-surgical aesthetic treatments since 1999. Hydrafacial is a lunchtime pick-me-up that has already turned a flurry of A-list celebrities into devoted fans, including Paris Hilton, Beyonce and Marie Osmond. MediZen’s clients travel across the country to be treated by their team. They love that their facial lines, wrinkles and brown spots have diminished, whilst pores and skin tone have become clearer and more defined. That’s got to make any woman curious, so I was excited to make an appointment with Maureen - an aesthetician at MediZen known by their staff and many clients as “The Hydrafacial Queen”. Don’t be fooled by any preconceptions you might have about clinics when you first visit MediZen. The atmosphere was warmer than most would expect. I was welcomed by soothing music, and Maureen, as I lay down on their treatment bed ready for my first Hydrafacial. But here’s where the similarities between a spa and clinic end. At MediZen, you are in the hands of experts, who know exactly what it takes to recover the skin from stress, makeup and environmental damage. They can use Hydrafacial to improve wrinkles, sun damage,

acne and your overall skin condition. Rarely do salons or spas offer this kind of skin health expertise at a medically-proven calibre. Each treatment is tailored to your individual skin condition, and so MediZen include a free skin review, to find out which parts of the package will really have your skin gleaming. Hydrafacial turns several individual treatments into one convenient course. The therapist starts by removing excess fluids from the skin, exfoliating and vacuuming away old cells and impurities. Following a mild peel to stimulate cell growth, the skin is bathed in antioxidants and hyaluronic serum, to protect the skin from ageing and leave you with fully hydrated, plumper skin. Finally, red light LED (light emitting diode) therapy stimulates new collagen production and further improves the skin’s health.

“After just one session, my face and neck both looked and felt thoroughly rejuvenated and refreshed.”

After just one session, my face and neck both looked and felt thoroughly rejuvenated and refreshed. But Hydrafacial isn’t just intended as a one-off experience. Keeping your skin in good health is as important as keeping your body in good shape, so regular visits are recommended. MediZen offer a “Skin Health for Life” series of treatments, based on your budget, to ensure that you always have vibrant, healthy looking skin. It’s affordable too, and the results are testament to what great value a few sessions can be, compared to ordinary facials. It can even be combined with MediZen’s other skin treatments to improve deeper wrinkles and other signs of ageing. If you’re a fan of facials, and have a dull and tired looking complexion or problem skin, I’d highly recommend having at least one Hydrafacial to see the difference for yourself. For more information about Hydrafacial or MediZen please visit: www.medizen.co.uk Or to book an appointment you can Contact the Clinic on: t: 0121 667 458

Before and After images shown above are indicative of the improvement in skin complexion that can be acheived with a course of Hydrafacial treatments.

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An increasingly popular way of providing volume to the breast is through the use of autologous fat transfer or lipofilling. This process can increase the volume of fat without the use of implants. We simply recycle fat from one area and use it to rejuvenate an area where increased volume is desirable - the ultimate in green surgery. Usually the fat is removed from extra storages of fat, such as the abdomen or thighs. The fat is collected by small syringes using liposuction method, and it is then purified before being re-injected in small amounts, until the desired effect is achieved. If larger volumes are needed, this must be performed in several sessions, this ensures the fat has a good enough tissue bed to survive or â&#x20AC;&#x153;takeâ&#x20AC;?. As the treatment uses your own fat cells, it means that the body will not break it down, the results can be permanent and the fat accelerates the healing of skin, giving a younger, fresher look, which continues to improve with time.

In addition there is minimal scarring with no further required maintenance costs, and you have the added benefits of liposuction to your abdomen or thighs.

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Beauty, health and lifestyle

Best Western Plus Manor Hotel Idyllic Warwickshire location

Set in the very centre of an idyllic Warwickshire village, the 4-star Best Western Plus Manor Hotel is conveniently located just minutes away from Birmingham, Coventry and Solihull.

Houston’s is a superb choice for diners looking for hearty meals. The level of service is consistent with the exceptional quality of the rest of the Best Western Plus Manor Hotel.

Boasting 112 stylish well-appointed bedrooms, the Best Western Plus Manor Hotel is the hotel of choice for the nearby National Exhibition Centre (NEC) with the Coventry Ricoh Arena just around the corner. Birmingham Airport and Train Station, and the major motorway networks of the Midlands are nearby, making the hotel easily accessible and an ideal choice for people looking to travel. The hotel also offers complimentary parking for up to 200 vehicles.

Excellent transport links and world-class facilities make the Best Western Plus Manor Hotel perfect for conferences and business meetings. The hotel boasts six superb flexible meeting and event suites which can accommodate from 2 to 300 guests offering a range of layouts, styles and themes ideal for meetings, exhibitions, product launches, training days and award ceremonies. The superb banqueting facilities, services, and close proximity to major cities add to the appeal of the hotel as a premier corporate venue.

The experienced staff are friendly and attentive, ensuring that visitors enjoy a relaxing stay with their every need catered for. Set behind an elegant Georgian façade, the luxury hotel has two fantastic restaurants; the 2 AA Rosette winning Regency Restaurant and the more informal Houston’s Bar & Grill. The Regency Restaurant offers an extremely elegant dining experience, provided by Head Chef Darion Smethurst and his dedicated team. In luxurious surroundings, superb fine dining is guaranteed every time, whether an intimate dinner for two or a Gala Dinner for 200. The menus change frequently, subject to the availability of freshly grown local produce or the arrival of new and inspired dishes. The restaurant is also fantastically equipped to host a range of celebrations, from wedding lunches to birthday parties. New York inspired Houston’s Bar & Grill is bright, vibrant and modern, offering a much more informal dining experience. With its sumptuous leathers and woods, innovative and exiting menu, and al fresco heated dining terrace, Houston’s is ideal for enjoying a relaxing meal with family and friends. Specialising in succulent steaks, delicious burgers and classic fish and chips, eating out at

The Best Western Plus Manor Hotel has hosted countless celebrations over the years, including many wonderful weddings. The wedding team’s wealth of experience and knowledge are a major bonus for couples organising their big day. Whether a lavish banquet or specifically tailored wedding, the team has

the creativity and professionalism needed to co-ordinate the big day and turn dreams into reality. The Best Western Plus Manor Hotel provides the perfect base for exploration of the surrounding area and some of the UK’s premier attractions are just a stone’s throw away including the National Motorcycle Museum, the Bullring Shopping Centre, Warwick Castle, the National Sea Life Centre, Cadbury World, the Black Country Museum, West Midlands Safari Park, Drayton Manor Theme Park, Alton Towers, the famous towns of Warwick and Stratford-upon-Avon and much, much more.

Best Western Plus Manor Hotel Meriden Main Road, Meriden, Solihull, West Midlands, CV7 7NH Tel: 01676 522735 Fax: 01676 522186 www.manorhotelmeriden.co.uk

The hotel has consistently received fantastic reviews from visitors, winning a Certificate of Excellence 2013 from Trip Advisor. The ideal hotel for business or leisure, the Best Western Plus Manor Hotel welcomes guests from across the country and provides them with a relaxing and enriching experience.

C haracter C harm

Situated in the heart of the beguiling Warwickshire countryside, Nailcote Hall is one of Britainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most romantic, charming and elegant country house hotels. A haven of relaxation and style, the supremely comfortable, individually designed bedrooms of the hotel make it the perfect place to leave behind the stresses of everyday life and indulge in wonderful food, regular entertainment and the fully equipped leisure club, or play a round on arguably the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best Par 3 course, The Cromwell Course. With quintessentially luxurious hospitality and a warm welcome guaranteed, Nailcote Hall offers truly unforgettable breaks.

Nailcote Hall, Nailcote Lane, Berkswell, Warwickshire, CV7 7DE, United Kingdom Telephone: +44 (0) 2476 466174

www.nailcotehall.co.uk

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

ampler

Menthol

Britain’s premium Tobacco Alternative

ampler

premium electronic cigarette brand multiCiG have developed a high quality range of devices that allow existing smokers to enjoy nicotine based products, free from harmful smoke and chemicals present in traditional cigarettes. manufactured to the highest standard, the devices have been created to provide a similar sensation to smoking, however the vapour released does not contain any of the harmful chemicals produced by tobacco. multiCiG’s e-cigarettes are stylish, satisfying, easy to use and permitted in a huge range of public spaces.

multiCIG’s e-cigarettes offer a truly premium alternative to cigarettes, available in a wide range of flavours and offering disposable, trial and starter kits. multiCIG is the leader of the premium e-cigarette marketplace, offering a product that helps smokers cut down on traditional tobacco products and switch from smoking to ‘vaping’.

Instead of using tobacco, e-cigarettes contain a mechanism that heats up liquid nicotine, turning to a vapour for users to inhale and exhale. multiCIG’s devices contain a battery, an atomiser and a replaceable cartridge. The cartridge contains nicotine and one of a range of flavours including cherry, vanilla and golden tobacco. A sensor detects air flow and begins a process of heating the liquid in the cartridge so it evaporates to form water vapour. Providing the same sensation of smoking and releasing a virtually odourless vapour, smokers are able to make the simple transition from smoking to ‘vaping’ with the help of the great product range. With the use of all electronic ‘vaping’ devices in a wide range of public spaces permitted, users can enjoy multiCIG without the inconvenience of having to move outside. Great for travelling or for use in your favourite restaurant or bar, multiCIG’s fantastic range of devices can be enjoyed almost anywhere.

The range of luxury devices are perfect for a variety of lifestyles and the great range of flavours allows mutiCIG users to enjoy the great taste of golden tobacco (100% tobacco free), classic, menthol, cherry, vanilla or cinnamon. What’s more, a single multiCIG disposable e-cigarette equates to 40 traditional cigarettes and offers savings of around £2000 per year when compared to a 22 cigarette per day habit. multiCIG’s range of e-cigarettes do not contain tar, tobacco or harmful smoke and are a healthier alternative traditional tobacco products. They also provide minimal irritation to others making them the ideal social companion, avoiding the risks of passive smoking associated with cigarettes. A business leader, most recently multiCIG has been awarded the prestigious Company of the Year award by Business and Industry Today magazine.

Sampler

Menthol

Once again, an east midlands business has created a product to lead the marketplace and provide its growing number of consumers with a revolutionary brand. it seems the future of smoking is here and multiCiG are flying the flag for a premium product that truly provides a viable and enjoyable alternative to tobacco.

Sampler

The publication aims to promote high quality products and services from reliable and trustworthy companies and decided to recognise exceptional quality of multiCIG’s products with this great accolade. Business and Industry Today is circulated nationally to people across a range of key industry sectors. multiCIG’s nomination for Company of the Year reflects the high esteem in which their products are held. With their range of practical and health benefits over traditional tobacco products, multiCIG are fast gaining recognition and their latest nomination establishes their products as the viable alternative to smoking.

For more information about the future of smoking and to access multiCIG’s great product range, please visit www.multiCIG.co.uk

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

Bespoke Tailoring from Adrian Barrows

A champion of British tailoring at its finest, Adrian Barrows is one of the country’s most highly skilled creators of modern, simple and traditional menswear, fashioning garments that allow each individual to benefit from his exacting attention to detail, keen sense of finesse and dedication to crafting the highest quality garments. Using only the very best British cloth, Adrian’s 18 years in the industry have allowed him to hone his own skills and knowledge to source beautifully crafted fabrics to work with at his studio, based in his home. His clients range from actors to musicians, to high profile sportsmen and a wide array of influential business people and every part of the tailoring process is completed in the UK to ensure that each garment is supplied and executed to the finest standard. Based in the heart of the Staffordshire, Adrian is able to work with a huge range of national and international clients, taking his innovative designs and truly personalised service to clients in London’s financial district to New York’s Wall Street, Miami, Los Angeles and beyond. Renowned for his impressive approach to customer

The Bespoke Tailor Mobile: 07968 438 717 Email: info@thebespoketailor.co.uk www.thebespoketailor.co.uk @TweetingTailor

satisfaction, the Bespoke Tailor has been known to travel all over the country just to amend a small part of the garment and make small alterations. Hailing from a creative family, it seems that Adrian was destined for his career path. His uncle was a chief tailor, forging an impressive career with some of the country’s most desirable and exclusive fashion houses. Adrian’s mother has also been a source of artistic inspiration, crafting bespoke celebration cakes for celebrity clientele, including a commission to create a birthday cake for Princess Diana, among many others. Completing a creative heritage too strong to ignore, the tailor’s father is also an engineer and has clearly influenced Adrian’s attention to detail and strong design aesthetic. Providing his clients with the vast breadth of his experience, Adrian has a selection of around 5000 different cloths for each season, ensuring that each of his different clients are able to select something

that is a perfect match to their own preference and style. Talking to each individual, the tailor is able to build up a picture of their individual, bringing them just a small but expertly selected choice of fine cloths and a clear idea of the design that would best suit them. Combining traditional techniques with a cutting edge approach, Adrian then uses his own self-developed pattern software to create the blue print for the finished garment, creating a piece of bespoke tailoring and working together with his client as a ‘team’ to create truly exquisite clothing. Adrian tailors a selection of individual garments, including business suits, shooting attire, jackets, trousers, waistcoats, overcoats and a wide range of bespoke items to provide his clients with everything from single items to complete wardrobes and only ever performing alterations on his own creations to ensure that they remain a perfect fit for many years to come.

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

5* leisure resort Rockliffe Hall is nestled within 375 acres on the banks of the River Tees with the historic city of Durham on its doorstep. Recently awarded five red stars by the AA, Rockliffe Hall’s status as one of the best hotels in the UK has been reaffirmed. Synonymous with luxury, stunning surroundings and award-winning food, Rockliffe Hall is the north of the England’s only 5* hotel, golf and spa resort on the North Yorkshire and County Durham border. Dating back to the 18th century, the hotel is steeped in history with a sparklingly rich heritage. With 61 individually designed bedrooms, golf course and spa resort set on the magnificently restored estate, a stay at Rockliffe Hall is guaranteed to be filled with luxury. The championship golf course is truly world class and has recently had the honour of hosting the English Senior Open. One of Europe’s best known golf tournaments, this year’s championship was an unrivalled success and the course has been selected to host the 2014 tournament. Attracting names from the pedigree of world golf including Sam Torrance OBE, Ian Woosnam OBE and Carl Mason, the tournament was the biggest of its kind to be held in the North East region for many years. When people come to Rockliffe Hall, they know that they are playing on a course of champions.

industry standards and enhancing both their guest and diner experiences. One of the industry’s most prestigious awards, the five star rating states that “Impeccably dressed staff provide attentive and unobtrusive service. All bedrooms will have an en suite bathroom with a bath and thermostatically controlled shower. Meals are cooked and presented to an excellent standard using high quality ingredients.”

The five red AA stars is a truly spectacular accolade for the hotel and is recognition of their excellence and testament to their dedication to raising

As well as the five red stars, Rockliffe Hall’s flagship restaurant, The Orangery, has retained its triple AA Rosette status

in recognition of the exact technique,

offering a range of luxurious

looking to keep active during their

flair and imagination in every dish.

treatments and a 20 metre indoor

stay.

The welcoming Brasserie and informal

swimming and hydrotherapy pool.

Clubhouse make up the trio of world-

At 50,000 square feet, the Spa

Guests of Rockliffe Hall have the

class restaurants available on site.

guarantees the luxury of space to

complete freedom to choose how

Whether it’s traditional afternoon tea

relax, unwind and indulge. Some of

they want to spend their time. The

or a succulent steak, the three distinct

the top therapists in the country are

hotel is fully equipped for weddings,

restaurants showcase the best the

on hand to help guests recharge

celebrations, conferences and quiet

North East has to offer.

within the sublime surroundings. A

getaways - 5* service, beautiful

state-of-the-art Technogym, exercise

surroundings and world-class facilities

Rockliffe Hall is home to an award-

studios, daily work-out classes and

are guaranteed every time.

winning spa and wellness centre,

Nordic walking are available for those

To find out more…. Getaways cost from £260 per night, per room including breakfast. To find out more visit www.rockliffehall.com or contact 01325 72 99 99

R ockliffe H all hotel • golf • spa Hurworth on Tees, Darlington, County Durham DL2 2DU Tel: +44 (0) 1325 72 99 99 | Email: enquiries@rockliffehall.com Web: www.rockliffehall.com 69

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

TONY JACKLIN CBE In the world of sport, it takes a truly special individual to inspire a generation and spark off change to the established order. Tony Jacklin CBE is one of the world’s most legendary golfers who almost single-handedly propelled European golf’s development and inspired a generation of champions. Though his rise to success can be traced back to the late 60’s, he continues to be a significant presence in golf and - as his recent appearance on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing shows – the nation.

Tony first gained international recognition at the Jacksonville Open, Florida in 1968. In an era when American golfers traditionally dominated on their home territory, Tony became the first European to win on the PGA Tour since the 1920s. Suddenly people stood up and took notice of the young man from Scunthorpe and so began one of the greatest series of events the golfing world has ever seen. At Royal Lytham and St Annes in 1969, Tony stepped up to the 18th tee at The Open Championship. Playing the hole perfectly, he won his first major in 1969 securing the title by two strokes. Even more momentous was his 1970 US Open victory on a windswept Hazeltine National Golf Course. While the Americans struggled for any consistency, the blustery conditions reminded Tony of home. He won by an incredible 7 strokes, the widest margin of victory in 50 years.

He won his first major in 1969 securing the title by two strokes

Tony at The Concession Golf Club which he helped design with Jack Nicklaus in recognition of their great match in the drawn Ryder Cup matches at Royal Birkdale in 1969.

In good company - Tony pictured with: Top Row l-r, Tom Lehman, Mark O’Meara, Ben Curtis, Sandy Lyle, Tony Jacklin, Ernie Els, Ian Baker-Finch, Mark Calcavecchia, Paul Lawrie, Tiger Woods, David Duval and Justin Leonard. Front Row l-r, Bob Charles, Greg Norman, Nick Faldo, Jack Nicklaus, Peter Thomson, Captain of the R&A Richard Cole-Hamilton, Todd Hamilton, Tom Watson, Gary Player, Seve Ballesteros and Nick Price. Past champions photocall during the second practice round for the 134th Open Championship at the Old Course, St. Andrews Golf Links, July 11, 2005 in St. Andrews, Scotland.

Tony’s incredible success continued into one of golf’s flagship contests – The Ryder Cup. One of the most influential figures in the tournament’s history, he played on seven consecutive occasions, including his memorable singles match against Jack Nicklaus which included the famous ‘Concession’ to tie the series 16-16. Tony achieved even more success when he captained the team on four separate occasions from 1983-1989. During this time he became the most successful Ryder Cup Captain in the history of the championship. During the pinnacle of his playing years, he became a hugely influential celebrity figure and is credited with boosting golf’s popularity in Britain and the rest of Europe. His profile and success played a huge part in the establishment of the European Tour which continues to be the premier circuit for top European golfers and develops countless champions. Tony’s achievements have been recognised as ground-breaking in the history of golf and the list of golfers he has inspired reads like a who’s who of the golfing elite - Sir Nick Faldo, Sandy Lyle MBE, Seve Ballesteros, Peter Oosterhuis and Ian Woosnam OBE to name a few.

His achievements were recognised in 1990 when he was named a Commander of the British Empire and in 2002 when he was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame. Since his professional retirement, Tony has remained very much in the public eye. He said: “Most people play a lot of golf after they retire but for me, golf has been my whole life and I have so much enthusiasm to try different things.” His drive and commitment are two of the qualities that have kept him in public focus for so many years. Tony is valued by major broadcasters in the sporting world including Sky Sports and talkSPORT for his engaging personality and golfing expertise. Recent high-profile media appearances include featuring as a guest on ‘The One Show’ and performing on the eleventh series of ‘Strictly Come Dancing’. Tony was the first golfer to ever appear on the show, trained by his professional dance partner Aliona Vilani. During his time in the competition, Tony’s level of commitment was unparalleled and he spent hours in training to make sure he gave the best performances possible.

One of his other great passions is golf course design, creating iconic courses around the world. The knowledge and experience gained from his playing career ensure that his courses offer a challenge to players of all abilities in the true spirit of the game. As Tony himself put it â&#x20AC;&#x153;Jacklin courses are created to seduce the player and keep them engaged over every hole.â&#x20AC;? Tony has a constant influence throughout the entire end-to-end design process, from the first pencil line, right through construction. Travelling across the globe for various engagements, Tony is committed to the causes he promotes. He is a patron of the English Deaf Golf Association, a cause that is particularly close to his heart as he has been hearing impaired for over 25 years, as well as recently joining Rainbows Hospice as their newest patron. He makes appearances at golf clubs around the world, encouraging young professionals and aspiring golfers alike to reach the top of their profession. His years of experience have helped young golfers including 17-year-old Charley Hull, Solheim Cup team member, who is a fantastic prospect for the future. As a transatlantic icon, Tony is ideally placed as an ambassador and his recent involvement with leading Scottish whiskey Glenmorangie has brought unmatched success. He was appointed as an Ambassador to Glenmorangie to promote shared values of excellence and heritage. An accomplished after dinner speaker, Tony draws on events from his glittering career to entertain guests at the functions he attends. Tony Jacklin is a modern sporting icon who has spent nearly half a century in the public eye. Few sporting stars can boast the same kind of relevance and long-lasting appeal that Tony emanates. His list of accolades is incredible and he continues to be a truly inspirational figure to millions.

A respected sporting expert, Tony Jacklin CBE is available for after dinner speaking, question and answer sessions and personal appearances.

Tony with his Strictly Come Dancing partner, Aliona Vilani

Contact Lloyd Bailey at Champions (UK) plc on 08453 31 30 31 for more information or visit www.champions-speakers.co.uk

ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S A MANâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S WORLD

BRITISH PAR 3 CHAMPIONSHIP

INCREDIBLE GOLF Great Celebrities, Huge Crowds The Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship at Nailcote Hall is one of the most iconic events on the annual English sporting calendar. Celebrating its 80th Anniversary, the championship has made an inspirational journey from local Torquay tournament to the third largest annual golfing event in England. Remastered by present day golfing pioneers Rick Cressman and Sid Mouland, the Championship is now one of the most hotly anticipated tournaments of the year and a firm favourite of professionals and celebrities alike.

Beauty, health & lifestyle

Photos from left to right: Overview of the BP3, Tony Jacklin CBE, Len Goodman, Alan McInally, Charlie Hall, Gary Wolstenholme MBE, Wille Thorne, Sam Torrance OBE, Peter Schmeichel MBE & Ian Woosnam OBE

Tommy Fleetwood claimed the coveted 2013 Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship title, taking home a cheque for £25,000 with a majestic performance at Nailcote Hall. The crowds enjoyed four days of golfing excellence and celebrity fun as golfing legends, top professionals and stars from sport and entertainment gathered in Warwickshire for the annual event which continues to grow year on year. This year, the total prize fund for the tournament increased dramatically to reach an incredible £100,000. The latest and most substantial prize fund increase in the Championship’s history, this year’s impressive total is testament to the involvement of the event’s headline sponsor, Farmfoods, as well as recognising the golfing talent that takes to the Cromwell Course each year. Record numbers of spectators came to watch and enjoy the Championship action as it unfolded. For the fifth year, two-time major winner and the most successful Ryder Cup captain of all-time Tony Jacklin CBE hosted the Farmfoods British Par 3. Also leading the field were Ryder Cup legend Sam Torrance OBE and once Masters winner Ian Woosnam OBE. The Sky Sports cameras were on hand to cover all of the action of what has become the world’s leading par 3 championship. Televised on Sky Sports and Challenge TV and covered extensively in national media including The Daily Telegraph, talkSPORT, Inspirational Magazine and Golf Monthly, the 80th anniversary championship was available for all to enjoy and provided great sporting entertainment for spectators and home viewers alike. The action began on Tuesday with the first Celeb Am tournament featuring star names including England cricketing legend Matthew Hoggard MBE, comedian Jasper Carrott OBE, Strictly Come Dancing judge Len Goodman and goalkeeping legends Peter Shilton OBE and Peter Schmeichel MBE. The individual competition was won by ‘Big Break’ star, Irishman Mark Murphy who shot -3 under par to fend off the competition. The ‘Social Golfer’ took the spoils in the team event and there was a

spectacular hole in one for James Weekes who was playing in the Glenmorangie team. After a full day’s golfing action Nailcote Hall hosted the first of three gala balls all raising money for Midlands’s charity Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People. There was superb entertainment from ‘Groove Nation’ and Tony Jacklin welcomed all guests to the championship with his inaugural welcome address. The Professional Championship began on Wednesday 7th August and featured golfing icons and current professionals. The field included Tony Jacklin CBE, Sam Torrance OBE, Ian Woosnam OBE, Tommy Horton MBE, Gary Wolstenholme MBE, DJ Russell, Tommy Fleetwood, Robert Rock, Graeme Storm and Gary Boyd. 6-time European Tour winner Paul Broadhurst led after the first day, with a superb round of -6. Always one of the highlights of the week, the Players’ Ball took place on Wednesday evening and featured a Q&A session with event host Tony Jacklin and his fellow Ryder Cup friends Sam Torrance and Ian Woosnam with former snooker star Willie Thorne asking the questions. The trio candidly discussed their careers and kept the audience engaged with fascinating stories from their illustrious careers. There was a delicious three-course meal and entertainment was provided by mind reader and illusionist Graham Jolley. Huge crowds gathered on Thursday for the conclusion of the Professional Championship and they were treated to an incredible golfing spectacle. Paul Broadhurst was unable to maintain his lead until the end and was overtaken by 22-yearold European Tour hot prospect, Tommy Fleetwood. The thrilling conclusion saw Fleetwood bogey the final hole to finish on -4 but Broadhurst was unable to get the birdie he needed to level the scores and finished at -3. Day three of the Championship saw three holes in one for Douglas Dawes, Luke Tarbott and Paul English.

The Super Seniors prize for leading player over 60 was won by Senior Tour player Carl Mason. At the other end of his career, the Norma C Herd prize for leading amateur was won by Craig Lawrie, son of Open Championship winner Paul Lawrie. The Ian Halliwell Cup for leading Pro Am team went to the team featuring European Tour regular Andrew Marshall and former Manchester United and Wales star Clayton Blackmore. Friday was the final day of the Championship and the second Celeb Am tournament. The celebrities teeing off included: former Manchester United manager Ron Atkinson, former Aston Villa striker Dean Saunders, former Grand National winner Bob Champion and Scotland football manager Gordon Strachan. Once again, Mark Murphy emerged victorious in the individual event with a round of -2, showing himself to be a master of the Cromwell Course. In the team event the ‘Callaghan Tire’ (USA) team were victorious. There were a whole host of activities to sample away from the course in the exclusive tented village area. One of Leicester’s highest regarded beauty specialists, Femi brought their incredible range of treatments so visitors could relax with a massage, pedicure or facial. Moet and Chandon kept the world-class champagne flowing throughout the four days, adding elegance and glamour to the Championship. For keen players, american golf showcased their range of products and were able to provide visitors with expert advice on which equipment was best for them. Other sponsors of the event included Champions (UK) plc, Mercedes-Benz, Nicky, Mattioli Woods, PMGC, VPAR, Colorsport, Finest Catch and Hewkin Executive. Throughout the day, golfing professionals and guest speakers took to the stage for exclusive Q&A sessions, telling stories of their fascinating careers and commentating on the day’s action. The final charity gala ball concluded proceedings in what was a truly stunning week of golfing action at Nailcote Hall. The rain stayed away and the stars shone as spectators were treated to a unique and once again first class event. For more information please visit:

www.britishpar3.com

ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S A MANâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S WORLD

Individually selected, elegant and set in beautiful surroundings, the Eden Hotel Collection provides world-class hospitality and exceptional quality. Each of the seven properties boasts distinctive style, personality and ambience, making them ideal for romantic breaks, celebrations and weekends away. The Eden Hotel Collection believes that the strength of their hotels lies in the individual care and attention which comes from personal ownership rather than operating as a big company. The highly capable and dedicated team truly care about the quality of the service they provide.

The location of each hotel has been carefully chosen across the West Midlands and southwest of England to ensure that every one is set in stunning surroundings. Each hotel offers the chance to explore or simply admire the views from one of the truly elegant rooms. The Arden Hotel in the heart of historic Stratford-Upon-Avon offers incredible views over the River Avon and some of Englandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most picturesque countryside. The charming Cotswolds villages and the ancient market town of Warwick are just a short trip away.

Food and drink are at the forefront of a trip to any one of the Eden Hotel Collection hotels. Based on seasonality, the menus are constantly evolving to encompass modern techniques and trends. Outstanding service and high quality are absolutely essential to the team. The range of wonderful dining options allows guests to choose between a gourmet experience and more relaxed brassiere style options. The whole team pay great attention to sourcing the best local suppliers to ensure they use only the finest quality ingredients.

Each of the hotels is fully equipped to host magical weddings that will live long in the memory. With a variety of wedding packages, guests can choose to host a small and intimate gathering or a larger celebration. The dedicated team are on hand to ensure that each part of the day is exactly how the couple want it. The architecture of the property and beautiful surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for the coupleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s big day. The Greenway Hotel & Spa is located on the outskirts of the Regency town of Cheltenham. The hotel, with its warm Cotswold stone exterior draped in ivy, is the picture of English country charm and lies in eight acres of stunning grounds with views over the rolling Cotswolds Hills. The Elan Spa is an oasis of tranquillity and relaxation that provides the complete spa experience. Facilities include; stylish treatment rooms, stunning hydrotherapy pool, a state-of-the-art fitness suite, studio for classes, sauna, steam room & solarium, experience showers, al fresco hot-tub, the Champagne Nail Bar and a retail boutique. Set in four acres of stunning grounds, the Mount Somerset Hotel and Spa offers guests some of the best views in the county. With a luxury interior complete with high ceilings and opulent dĂŠcor, it is a quintessential English Regency mansion. The spa assures calmness and serenity far removed from fast-paced modern day life. Across two floors, a full range of treatments are on offer so guests can relax in whatever way they choose. Each hotel retains its own individuality and timeless charm that has been achieved through private ownership and management. The Eden Hotel Collection hotels make ideal locations for a winter getaway, with incredible facilities on site and ample activities in the surrounding areas. Though each hotel is individual, with a caring attitude, attention to detail and the very best service are themes that run throughout the Eden Hotel Collection.

For more information on the Eden Hotel Collection, please contact the Head Office on 08453 51 09 80

Mallory Court Hotel, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire Buckland-Tout-Saints, Devon The Kings Hotel, Gloucestershire The Arden Hotel, Stratford-upon-Avon The Mallory Hotel and Spa, Cheltenham The Mount Somerset Hotel and Spa, Somerset Brockencote Hall Hotel, Worcestershire

www.edenhotelcollection.com 79

Leave limitations

and everything else for that

an you imagine for one moment what 60mph in less than 2.5 seconds would feel like, and then to 100mph in just under 5 seconds? This is beyond performance car territory, you are on the F1 grid!

In the year of its birth – 2007, the Caparo T1 smashed BBC Top Gear’s lap record setting a new lap record time of 1:10.6. A colossal seven seconds quicker than a modified Koenigsegg CCX... a performance that remains unbeaten even today. With its power to weight ratio twice that of a Bugatti Veyron, the T1 delivers over 1,000hp per ton in a heartbeat. An ultra lightweight carbon and aluminium honeycomb monocoque chassis combined

with extensive use of carbon fibre for structural components and the highest spec race equipment, it finally tips the scales at an unbelievable 550kg. The T1’s slick aerodynamic shape isn’t just for carving its way through the earth’s atmosphere. It generates more down force than it weighs, resulting in cornering forces of up to 3.5g, similar to the face contorting forces experienced by aerobatic pilots. So in theory, you could

drive upside down in a tunnel, defying even more of nature's laws! The Caparo T1 braking system, manufactured by Caparo AP Braking, provides awesome stopping power, bringing the vehicle to standstill from 100mph in under three seconds. Huge brake disks at 14 inch (35.6cm) diameter and 1.3 inch (3.3cm) thick front and rear, gripped by six pot (front) and four

behind matter!

With around 600bhp screaming behind you, the Caparo T1 is quite simply the world’s fastest ever track-based, ultra-performance road car. pot (back) calipers made from high-strength aerospace-grade aluminium deliver almost a heart stopping experience.

engineers designed and developed the vehicle, which is manufactured 100% in the United Kingdom.

As the Top Gear presenters aptly put it; “You couldn’t stop any quicker if you hit a tree.”

The T1 is quite simply... the quickest thing point-to-point ever to wear a number plate.

The T1 was envisioned as a showcase for the engineering excellence of the Caparo Group, a privately owned $2Bn turnover, global industrial business. Caparo’s

PURE, RAW AUTOMOTIVE ART.

Every car is hand-built to order and if you believe you’ve got what it takes to own and tame one, contact: info@caparoT1.com

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

the

RealDEAL An exclusive interview with Evander Holyfield

Five-time World Heavyweight Champion Evander Holyfield is a true legend in the world of boxing. In a career spanning over three decades, he has taken on and defeated some of the greatest fighters in the world – George Foreman, Riddick Bowe and of course, Mike Tyson. He is now committed to philanthropy, travelling the world to promote the Global Village Champions Foundation with two-time Nobel Peace Prize nominee Yank Barry. Inspirational Magazine travelled to meet the Real Deal in person for an exclusive interview about his life, boxing career and future plans. We caught up with Evander at Birmingham Children’s Hospital where he was touring the wards, giving out gifts to the children and posing for photos with the staff. At 50-years-old, he still cuts an intimidating figure but his warm smile and engaging personality endeared him to patients and staff alike. Back at the hotel, we sat down with Evander and Yank to discuss the former’s illustrious boxing career, and their recent charitable work together. Evander recalled stories about his time in boxing, setting the scene with masterful storytelling ability delivered in his trademark Alabama drawl. Inspirational Magazine: Who was your biggest inspiration? Evander Holyfield: “Coach Carter Morgan, who was 70-years-old at the time, first got me into boxing when I was just 8-years-old. He told me I could be like Mohammed Ali! Coming from a poor background like mine where people didn’t have many aspirations, that was incredible. I asked my Mom if I could be a Champion and she said I could!

IM: You had already won a medal in the Olympics as an amateur – How did you feel before you went out for your first professional fight against Lionel Byarm? EH: The 1984 Olympic team was the greatest ever, and I ended up winning a Bronze medal as an amateur. Coming out of the Olympics, I’m the guy who should’ve got Gold but due to a controversial decision, it went the other way. My first professional fight was at Madison Square Gardens on Primetime television – it’s a place of legends and people spend their whole lives trying to get there. I was fighting the Philadelphia state Champion, and everyone knows Philadelphia have the some of the best fighters in the world. I fought a championship match on my first fight and I beat him.

IM: So the future is with the Global Village Champions Foundation? EH: In 1996 when Ali lit the Olympic torch, they shared with us everything he had done, He was the most popular athlete ever at the Olympics and though I knew he was a great champions, I didn’t know all the amazing charitable work he had done. Once I heard that, it gave me chills. I’ve realised how many people you can touch if you give back. This is something I’m supposed to do. YB: In the big picture, Evander has a lot of work to do to continue what we are doing. We will have a day without hunger and the Foundation is strong enough to do that now. When I got the Peace Prize nomination, I was proud but it was a real shock!

IM: Who was the greatest fighter you went up against? EH: For me, it would be Mike Tyson. I had been the World Heavyweight Champion twice before I went up against him and everyone said I had to beat him or I was no true champion. The fights against him were really special and significant.

IM: Knowing what you know now about your life, what advice would you give to a 16-year-old you? EH: There are so many aspects of your life that can change, but I would tell him to be your own person.

IM: Which was your most memorable fight? EH: I would say my second fight against Riddick Bowe. Mainly for the Fan Man’s intervention! IM: When did you begin working together on the Global Village Champions Foundation? Yank Barry: Evander’s been a champion for many years and Mohammed Ali passed the torch onto him. In my younger days, I began getting involved in drug prevention and it was a great feeling giving something back. I met Cassius Clay before he became Mohammed Ali in the 60’s and we became best friends. In 1991 we founded the Global Village Champions Foundations – I told Mohammed that if we kept doing what we were doing in twenty years we would feed a billion people and we’re currently at 954,000,000.

IM: You have often talked about going for another title – Do you still have ambitions to come back and fight again? EH: If I get a title shot by the end of the month, then I’ll come back. If not, I’ll wash my hands of boxing and continue with my charity work. I was told I could be like Ali and I’ve done one part of it by becoming a boxing champion. The second half is the humanitarian part – my work is certainly cut out for me. I’ve now got the opportunity to chase Ali a little bit more.

There are so many aspects of your life that can change, but what I would say is be your own person. 83

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

EXPERIENCE THE NEW IS 300h

THE NEW IS 300h DELIVERS 223 DIN hp OF FULL HYBRID POWER, YET EMITS JUST 99 g/km OF CO2*.

THE NEW IS 300h DELIVERS 223 DIN hp OF FULL HYBRID POWER, YET EMITS JUST 99 g/km OF CO2*. Outside, the new IS 300h compact saloon displays stunning design, LED

lights, and a bold Lexus ‘spindle grille’. Inside you’ll discover a luxurious,

Control for a sophisticated engine note – the IS 300h is engaging to drive,

driver-focused cockpit with state-of-the-art multimedia and safety systems.

yet emits just 99* g/km of CO2 and consumes a mere 4.3 l/100 km* of fuel.

In a new, lower driving position you’ll enjoy precise steering and accurate

There’s ample of room for your luggage too, as the hybrid battery takes up

control when cornering, with world-class Lexus refinement and smoothness.

minimal space beneath the boot floor. * For the SE grade.

Lexus Coventry, London Road, Coventry, CV3 4LP. Tel: 024 7651 8100 Email: lexus.coventry@listers.co.uk 84

What the motor industry experts say about

LEXUS

Renowned for their advanced technology, innovative processes and high-quality output, Lexus is one of the world’s premier car brands. Famous for their incredible performance levels, Lexus believe in creating cars that lead the field in reduced emissions and superior fuel economy. Inspirational Magazine looks at Lexus’ range of revolutionary automobiles and some of their most sought-after models.

Ct 200h The most aerodynamically efficient car in its class, the CT 200h accommodates five people plus two large suitcases (or two buggies). Also, an option on the SE-L Premier grade, features Lexus’ breakthrough Pre-Crash Safety system, another category first, helping it achieve Euro NCAP’s highest standard for safety. The ultimate in high-end car audio – Mark Levinson – provides a hometheatre experience on the SE-L Premier interior which features beautifully crafted bio-sourced materials. Lexus legendary customer service accompanies every CT 200h. is 300h Outside, the new IS 300h compact saloon displays stunning design, LED lights, and a bold Lexus ‘spindle grille’. Inside, you’ll discover a luxurious, driverfocused cockpit with state-of-the-art multimedia and safety systems. In a new, lower driving position you’ll enjoy precise steering and accurate control when cornering, with world-class Lexus refinement and smoothness. The IS 300h is engaging to drive, yet, in SE grade, emits just 99 g/km of CO2 and consumes 65.7 mpg on the combined cycle.

Gs 300h The new GS 300h is specified with second-generation Lexus Hybrid Drive. This intelligently combines an advanced 2.5-litre direct injection petrol engine with a high-output electric motor and compact hybrid battery. The new GS 300h delivers smooth and sophisticated Full Hybrid performance, yet has a combined fuel consumption of 60.1 mpg. Select EV (Electric Vehicle) mode to progress in near silence, using no petrol and emitting zero emissions. There’s plenty of luggage space and, thanks to Lexus’ leadership in hybrid technology, the GS 300h has competitively low running costs. It can be specified with one of the largest multimedia displays available today – a 12.3-inch , full colour split-screen, and over 2,000 hours were spent optimising the design and position of the 17 Mark Levinson® speakers. The driver’s seat alone took over five years to perfect. Lexus have stopped at nothing in the creation of this amazing car.

rx 450h The revolutionary RX 450h provides dynamic power, generous spaciousness and incredible economy. In the RX 450h, Lexus has developed a whole new class of vehicle. Since the RX became the world’s first luxury SUV in 1998, Lexus have been taking the generous spaciousness and body strength of a traditional SUV and allying it with aerodynamic, sporty styling. They then raise the bar even further with exhilarating power, astonishing fuel economy and luxurious levels of detail and comfort.

Ls 600h L The most powerful, full hybrid saloon in the world, the LS 600h L premier long wheelbase version comes with the luxury of extra spaciousness. Incredibly comfortable and enjoyable to drive, it is – quite simply – the most refined Lexus saloon ever built. Travelling in the LS endows a very special feeling. Second glances are born of its remarkable, bold design featuring an iconic chrome-framed front ‘spindle grille’. The new LS 600h L Premier is also the first Lexus model to introduce LEDs for all exterior lights, including the headlights, fog lights and rear combination lights.

What the motor industry experts say about Lexus ...

‘You will not get better levels of service from any other car maker - fact’ auto expressdriver power award Winner 2013

‘Clearly, owners can’t praise their cars enough for their premium qualities - they’re expertly put together, packed with gadgets and a pleasure to drive’ auto expressdriver power award Winner 2013

‘It’s a very long time since I drove something so highbrow, so magnificent, so detailed, so perfect’ topgear.co.uk

‘A masterclass in excellence for superb cars and awesome levels of customer service’

Advanced Vehicle Leasing (Stratford Upon Avon) provide a bespoke service for their clients and source any make & model of vehicle at the lowest prices available for an outright purchase or monthly lease. For free advice and a quotation contact: Faz Subhani and the team on Office: 01926 842220 Email: stratforduponavon@avluk.co.uk

Faz subhani, advanced Vehicle Leasing (stratford upon avon) To see more information about the complete Lexus range, visit www.lexus.co.uk

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

Nigel A lifetime of Spink – achievement One of the West Midlands’ most respected footballers, Nigel Spink had a professional career that saw him spend twenty years at Aston Villa alone, making over 350 appearances and saving countless goals for the side. His first appearance for the club came at a crucial moment for Aston Villa; ten minutes into the crucial European Cup final against Bayern Munich. Brought on as a substitute for Jimmy Rimmer, the young goalkeeper helped the side on to a 1-0 lead and set himself on a path to greatness. The majority of Spink’s career has been spent in the West Midlands, a region renowned for its sporting excellence and its great football teams. For many, the goalkeeper remains an unsung hero, someone who continued to play so well for their team but has gone largely unrecognised. However, the Birmingham Sports Awards, held at the prestigious Edgbaston Stadium on the 19th September 2013, saw Spink awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award, an incredible accolade that saw his lifelong dedication to the region’s sport rewarded.

HEADLINE SPONSOR

In a sporting arena famed for its frequent transfers, huge salary increases and complex politics, Spink remained a loyal and dedicated player, continuing to support his team for a huge number of years, helping them to a string of excellent results and championing great sport from within the West Midlands. Recognised at the Birmingham Sports Awards, the region’s most prestigious recognition of sporting talent, the former footballer was delighted to receive the accolade and take part in such a great celebration of the region’s talent, highlighting everyone from the very youngest, to great teams, coaches and those who have made a lifelong contribution to the West Midlands successful sporting history.

A respected sporting expert, Nigel Spink is available for after dinner speaking, question and answer sessions and personal appearances.

Spink is so respected by both the wider and sporting community that Warwickshire County Cricket’s Ian Bell MBE, star of the recent Ashes Series named the goalkeeper as his all-time sporting hero and someone that he has followed closely since the age of six. Just one of his many fans, the cricketer is an ideal example of the many ways that the goalkeeper has continued to inspire a generation, spurring them on to make an equally important and lasting contribution to their own sporting environment.

Contact Jack Hayes at Champions (UK) plc on 08453 31 30 31 for more information or visit www.champions-speakers.co.uk

Maserati Luxury for the Everyday Drive This year marks the beginning of an evolution for one luxury brand motor dealer in Solihull, West Midlands.

Graypaul Birmingham, official Maserati dealer for the Midlands, is preparing for an extraordinary change to its business over the coming years, with the launch of the brand new Maserati Ghibli four-door saloon, which we can expect to see on our roads imminently.

The introduction of the new model sees Graypaul Birmingham immerse into the high end E-segment market with the ultimate sports executive saloon: the Maserati Ghibli. It boasts a 3-litre V6 engine, which is now available to order in either diesel, petrol or petrol ‘s’ versions with an on the road price starting at £48,830,00.

The Maserati Ghibli, with its name taken from the bare roots and tradition of Maserati itself, has all the attention to detail which you would expect of the Italian luxury brand, creating a new class of luxury for the everyday drive.

high-technology tone for Maserati’s upcoming new-model onslaught, but also remains faithful to Maserati’s long history in luxury sports saloons. It boasts a 3.8 litre V8 turbo charged petrol engine and is the fastest, most powerful, four-door Maserati ever built.

Matt Morgan, Sales Manager at Graypaul Birmingham says: “This is a very exciting time for us as we prepare to introduce our brand to a whole new audience of premium car buyers. We are confident that the introduction of the new car will be a great compliment to an already exciting range of Maserati vehicles and orders are already being taken ahead of expected delivery dates. We are very much looking forward to seeing the Ghibli in our dealership in the coming weeks.” This new addition to the Maserati range came just months after the launch of the all new Maserati Quattroporte. The sixth-generation Quattroporte delivers a leap forward that not only sets the

To register your interest or place an order for the Maserati Ghibli, please contact MATT MORGAN at GRAYPAUL BIRMINGHAM on: 0121 223 1401 or call in at: 120 Highlands Road, Shirley, Solihull B90 4NU (Junction 4 of the M42).

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

Scan the QR code for our latest AMG offers

E63 AMG Saloon Power at its most seductive

To book a test drive please call us on 01452 690138 Mercedes-Benz of Cheltenham and Gloucester Ashville Business Park, Cheltenham Road East, Staverton, Gloucester, GL2 9QJ 01452 690138 www.mercedes-benz-sytner.co.uk

AMG

For over 45 years three letters have signified the ultimate in high performance Mercedes-Benz

Started by Hans-Werner Aufrecht and Erhard Melcher in 1967, AMG dedicated its operation to developing engines and components for Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts – the company taking its name from the first letters of the founders’ surnames and Aufrecht’s home town, Großaspach. However it was four years later that AMG leapt to prominence when its expert workforce prepared a 6.3-litre 300 SEL saloon for the Spa 24-hour race and it stormed to a shock class win. Over the prevailing years, Mercedes-Benz chose the company to be its official partner for the German Touring Car Championship (DTM) and then forged a partnership that would take high performance motoring from the race track to the road – a C 36 AMG becoming the first AMG road model in 1993. Since then, an extensive range of models has been developed and aimed at the discerning driver who desires the ultimate fusion of race-bred power with day-to-day driveability. There is a certain exclusivity of ownership to be savoured too thanks to AMG’s ‘one man, one engine’ philosophy whereby every power unit is assembled by a master technician whose name appears on the rocker cover when complete. Today, the line-up of AMG variants encompasses C-Class, E-Class, CLS-Class, CL-Class, SLK-Class, SL-Class and ML-Class models as the range’s popularity hits record levels – registrations were almost 145% up on the previous 12 months. The long-established automotive group has the manufacturer’s phenomenal AMG Fleet at its disposal and can offer existing and new customers the opportunity to find out exactly why Mercedes AMG is the fastest-growing high performance brand in the UK. Offering an unrivalled fusion of phenomenal performance, tractability and efficiency, the impressive Mercedes AMG range spans hatchbacks to estates to roadsters to four-wheel drive Sports Utility Vehicles. Recent additions include the new range-topping SLS AMG Black Series – the fastest and most powerful Mercedes AMG model yet – and the A 45 AMG that at 360hp has the highest specific output of any current series production engine. With its five-door body style the A 45 AMG is also immensely versatile. Mercedes Benz of Cheltenham & Gloucester have unveiled the phenomenal A 45 AMG at its showroom and the striking A-Class is certain to delight drivers with its red hot style and scorching performance.

As well as setting new dynamic benchmarks in its hardfought sector, the A 45 AMG marks many firsts that are sure to be a hit with Mercedes-Benz of Cheltenham & Gloucester’s customers. The A 45 AMG is the first production car to achieve 181 hp per litre, the first AMG with fewer than six cylinders and the first all-wheel drive A-Class to arrive in the UK. The ultimate incarnation of the A-Class, the A 45 AMG is powered by a hand-built turbocharged engine that delivers 360hp and a huge 450Nm of torque between 2,250 rpm and 5,000 rpm. Transmitting the advanced four-cylinder engine’s vast power to the road is the slick AMG speedshift DCT 7-speed sports transmission and the surefooted AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. Although able to sprint from a standstill to 62mph in 4.6 seconds, the A 45 AMG is impressively efficient too. The athletically-styled model, which is available in eight colours and with three alloy wheel designs, can return 40.9mpg on the combined cycle and emits just 161g/ km of CO2. The class-leading performance isn’t to the detriment of comfort either. The A 45 AMG’s highly-developed chassis provides an excellent ride as well as pin-sharp handling, while the supremely appointed interior includes AMG Performance seats finished in red nappa level that offer enhanced lateral support. As Faz Subhani of Advanced Vehicle Leasing (Stratford Upon Avon) explains after a recent test drive, the incredible package offered by the A 45 AMG is hard to beat in every sense. “The sheer pace of the A 45 AMG means it is literally out in front of its rivals, but it’s not all about performance. While it has the driving dynamics to eclipse many a supercar, it’s also a very safe, efficient and practical five-door car that is as at home on the school run as it is on the race track,” writes Faz.

“

For those seeking the ultimate blend of comfort, performance and practicality the E 63 AMG certainly ticks all the right boxes. Another new addition to the ever-increasing Mercedes AMG model line-up, the E 63 AMG has benefitted from the revisions to the E-Class being the most extensive ever undertaken by Mercedes-Benz and the choice of two variants – the ‘standard’ E 63 AMG and the E 63 AMG S Model, the latter available as a Saloon and Estate. The new E 63 AMG presents a more powerful character and a more dynamic appearance than all its predecessors and its appeal is further boosted by substantially enhanced value for money: customers now receive more performance, improved driving dynamics and a broader scope of standard equipment and appointments. At the heart of the E 63 AMG is the renowned 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine that continues to be the absolute pinnacle of efficiency: the combination of high performance and low fuel consumption remains unrivalled by any other competitor in the segment worldwide. In the E 63 AMG S Model the phenomenal engine produces 585hp – 28hp more than the standard E 63 AMG – and propels the Saloon version from 0-62mph in just 4.1 seconds and the Estate in 4.2 seconds. Yet while the E 63 AMG offers incredible performance, it is also more efficient than many imagine and the S Model Saloon has a combined fuel consumption of 28.5mpg and CO2 emissions of 232g/km. Like all Mercedes AMG models the E 63 AMG really must be driven to be appreciated and if you would like to find out what it is like to drive the most powerful and fastest E-Class ever, or indeed experience any other current Mercedes AMG model, please contact Hendrix Green, Business Manager, at Mercedes-Benz of Cheltenham & Gloucester 01452 690138.

There’s nothing else like the A 45 AMG and it adds an extra dimension to the success story of the new A-Class. Along with the rest of the phenomenally popular A-Class range, which also includes the first Mercedes-Benz to emit less than 100g/km CO2, the A 45 AMG is available to test drive now at Mercedes Benz Cheltenham & Gloucester’s showroom. Without doubt,

”

whoever experiences it will be impressed.

Established in 1925 by two enterprising young engineers, Bang & Olufsen is world-renowned as an international design icon and global symbol of audio-visual excellence. Aiming to provide art and acoustic perfection, their team fine-tune every component ensuring stunning surround sound, clarity and power. The three guiding principles of Bang & Olufsen are passion, pride and persistence. With an independent retail network in more than 100 countries, they are a true international company that still cares about the local communities they are in. In the heart of the Midlands, the Bang & Olufsen store in Leamington Spa is conveniently located within easy reach of Birmingham, the West Midlands, Oxfordshire and Leicestershire, and situated close to major motorway networks M40 and M6. It has recently celebrated 22 years of successful business in Leamington Spa. Engineered with precision, their exclusive range of televisions, music systems, loudspeakers, telephones and multimedia products combine technical excellence with strong emotional appeal. Besides entertainment products, Bang & Olufsen uses acoustic skill and design expertise in creating high-performance sound systems for the high-end car industry. Leamington is a popular destination town featuring a mix of independent shops, cafes and restaurants. The unique Bang & Olufsen showroom is extremely close to the main shopping area on Regent Street. Boasting one of the most experienced teams in the UK, they are proud to provide exceptional customer service, giving visitors an experience they will remember. From the moment customers enter the showroom, the team are able to provide as much help as possible whether they need detailed advice or just an informal chat. Their service is first-class every step of the way, from helping to choose the best product for the customer, to the final installation and beyond. Collectively the team have in excess of 50 years of experience within the Bang & Olufsen brand. Even in uncertain economic times with luxury brands traditionally suffering, Bang & Olufsen in Leamington Spa has continued to prosper and serve a growing market area.

The team are persistent in their dedication to excellence and maintaining a healthy and sustainable business. They are constantly considering the operation, design and longevity of their products to make them as environmentally friendly as possible. The designs are timeless and many households still have perfectly working Bang & Olufsen products that are 20-30 years old. Products are exhaustively mechanically tested to ensure only the highest quality products are being sold, and the Leamington team are on hand to offer any advice or extra support they can give. Zaffar Somra, manager at the store, explained: “We want Bang & Olufsen of Leamington Spa to be so much more than ‘just a shop’ and as a thank you to our customers we are constantly looking at ways to enhance the value they receive and add even more excitement to their relationship with us. This includes establishing links with other prestige, local businesses to deliver customer events and opportunities that money simply can’t buy. For example, a number of our customers recently enjoyed a tour and ‘lunch on the line’ at the Aston Martin production facility, while another group randomly selected from our database are set to cook with a Michelin-starred chef.” “We’re here to stay too. Leamington Spa is a very vibrant and picturesque place that offers a great deal to his visitors and while there has been a marked shift in online retailing; our place will always be at the heart of the town. It’s the personal customer interaction that sets our service apart and provides the reassurance and support that an online purchase can never have”. 78 Regent Street Leamington Spa CV32 4NS T: 01926 881 500

HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN

David & Helen Wallace visited the Ripples showroom in Knowle looking for inspiration for their bathroom project... David’s main aim was to have a simple uncluttered look and Lisa suggested a bespoke self-supporting shower screen which was channelled into the wall & floor tiles for a seamless look. An alcove recessed into the wall provides storage in the shower area. “I also loved the suggestion of brushed stainless steel taps and shower fittings which mirror the tin finish on the bath” says David “it’s more subtle than chrome and gives a more classic touch to the overall feel of the room”

“We bought the house 5 years ago and have gradually renovated many areas including the basement” says Helen. “One of the main problems with the house was the lack of a main family bathroom and we decided to convert a bedroom into a space which would feel really special”. As within the rest of the four-story Regency town house, the bedroom had a fireplace, original picture rails and coving as well as a lovely sash window & impressively high ceilings.

The vanity unit was designed by Ripples and was made by a local cabinet maker. The unit was completed with a crema marfil marble worktop to match the floor and shower wall tiles.

“We had the space to make a statement but were really struggling with pulling everything together so when we visited Ripples it was a relief to meet someone who was willing to listen to our ideas and was then able to interpret our thoughts and turn them into a unique design. Having met designer and owner Lisa Hammond in the showroom, David & Helen asked her to visit them at home & take detailed measurements before she put design ideas onto paper for a presentation at the showroom.

Lisa Hammond

“We really liked Ripples’ professional approach and felt relaxed and confident in the process which also included meeting the installation team introduced to us by Lisa”.

“Lisa wanted to use minimal wall tiling to make the space feel more like a room than a bathroom and suggested a Farrow & Ball wallpaper for the chimney breast wall which really highlights the bath and softens the overall effect”. “There were a few complications with the installation such as the floor being really out of level & having to install a new soil pipe four storeys up but the bathroom fitters were fantastic” says Helen, “their attention to detail and can-do attitude was really refreshing and they were lovely guys to have in the house which is really important to us especially when we are both out at work every day”.

Helen was keen to have a statement bath and instantly fell in love with a freestanding hand-finished copper example on display at Ripples. There was plenty of space for a large walk-in shower and double vanity unit which was also on David & Helen’s wish list.

1693-1695 High Street 92

Knowle

Solihull

B93 0LN

T: 01564 730 223

F: 01564 775 087

www.ripples.ltd.uk

Dream Bathroom “We are thrilled with our dream bathroom and it’s a space we love spending time in – elegant but not untouchable”. David & Helen Wallace

KBB Designer of the Year Finalist 2013 KBB Master Bathroom Retailer Finalists 2008-2011 KBB Showroom of the Year Finalists 2010 Ripples Franchise of the Year 2011-12

HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN

Derelict building, before view

The bar

AUDLEY BINSWOOD unveils imagery of restoration

Audley Binswood, the luxury retirement village in the heart of Leamington Spa, has exclusively shared the latest imagery of the restoration of the hall with Inspirational Magazine. The images, used for illustrative purposes only, demonstrate a beautiful interior that will re-introduce what was almost a derelict building to the community. The new images show the former school hall building transformed to include the Audley Club where members of the local community will be able to enjoy the bar/ bistro and fine dining restaurant. The imagery also shows what the swimming pool and health and wellbeing centre will look like when complete. Nick Sanderson, CEO of Audley Retirement, spoke of the fantastic response to the development at Binswood with more than 50% of the first phase was already being sold: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Audley has been fortunate to own such a beautiful building which is so fondly remembered by the local community. I have been privileged to meet many former pupils of the school and we have been overwhelmed by the enthusiastic support in our plans to restore Binswood Hall to its former glory. We are all looking forward to welcoming our new village residents later this year.â&#x20AC;?

Tel: 01926 258 080

The lounge

The library, health & wellbeing centre and swimming pool

www.subzero-wolf.co.uk

Exclusively available at Interior design for kitchens Stratford Upon Avon Unit 2, 257 Birmingham Road, Stratford Upon Avon CV37 0BF T: 01789 267 001 Solihull 100 Stratford Road, Shirley, Solihull B90 3BH T: 0121 744 3953 E: sales@kitchengallery.co.uk W: kitchengallery.co.uk

www.subzero-wolf.co.uk

home, house and garden

Jean – Christophe novelli a multi Michelin star award winning chef, with a multitude of awards under his toque, Jean-Christophe novelli is bringing out another book full of classic French recipes, with an updated 21st century touch. We look at how he’s got to his Michelin star status… Jean Christophe’s new book ‘simply novelli’ gives his fans a guided tour of France’s regional cooking. all the dishes are based on classic French recipes, with novelli adding a contemporary spin to them.

Novelli says “In this book I have simply thought about how French classics have evolved over the centuries and brought them into the 21st Century for the modern culinary culture and given it my own twist and tried where possible to make quick and easy to prepare”.

restaurants in London with only £500 in his pocket. His next venture was over in South Africa, where he launched Novelli at Cape Town’s leading five star Relais et Chateaux Hotel. Not content with this, he opened another at Moulin de Jean in Normandy and became Chef- Consultant on Sea France ferries.

Jean-Christophe Novelli is a 5 out of 5, AA Rosette and multi Michelin Star award winning chef, who has won the AA’s Chef’s Chef of the Year, the European Chef of the Year and was a finalist in the European Chef of the Year.

Being a passionate Frenchman who is proud of his country’s culinary heritage, Novelli wanted to pass on his wisdom of cooking as well as his dishes. So, he opened The Novelli Academy, based out of his personal kitchen at his 14th century farm house in Hertfordshire.

“In this book I have simply thought about how French classics have evolved over the centuries and brought them into the 21st Century for the modern culinary culture and given it my own twist and tried where possible to make quick and easy to prepare” He has also been named “The Nation’s Favourite French Chef”. Novelli’s career began at the young age of fourteen where he made pancakes in a baker’s shop for the people of his home town Arras. From here he became the private chef of Elie de Rothschild, where he furthered his culinary learning. When Novelli moved to Britain his career progressed dramatically. Christophe’s life changed completely when he arrived in Great Britain in 1983 having spent a year in charge of Keith Floyd’s pub, ‘The Maltsters’ as Head Chef whilst Keith was filming his famous TV shows. The next positive step Novelli made in his career path was to begin his mini empire by opening four

Jean-Christophe Novelli is available for personal appearances, private dining experiences, brand endorsements and much more.

The academy proved to be so popular that it was voted amongst the ‘Top 25 Cookery Schools in the World’ before being awarded ‘One of the Top Ten Cookery Schools in the UK’ by The Independent. Jean-Christophe has also been privileged to receive an Honorary Doctor of Arts from Bedfordshire University for his 30 years of dedication to his craft and outstanding achievements in cooking. JeanChristophe is only the 3rd Chef in history to achieve such recognition! With his love of food and a passion for sharing his culinary wisdom, Jean – Christophe Novelli looks set to continue on his successful road to inspiring fellow chefs.

To find out how Jean-Christophe can work with you contact Champions (UK) plc on 0845 331 3031 99

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PUSHKAR CoCKtAil BAR & Dining Birmingham

This is... Tel: 0121 643 7978 245 BROAD STREET, BIRMINGHAM B1 2HQ

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lovES REStAURAnt Birmingham

Birmingham has never offered more exciting and extensive cuisine as it does today. From the Balti triangle to top end dining, from coffee houses to real ale bars, the city really can answer all calls for a great night out. And Loves Restaurant aims to do just that. This couple run restaurant was opened by Steve and Claire Love in 2009 and has been handed award after award since then. Their first Christmas also saw them being given 3 AA Rosettes, just 4 months after opening and immediately catapulted them into the top 3

restaurants in the city. Today, they can boast not just the 3 AA Rosettes, but listings in the all the major guide books; and for the 3rd year running are listed in the Top 100 Restaurants in the UK, 1 of only 2 restaurants in the City to feature on the list. They have also just been given the Notable wine list award by the Good Food Guide 2013/4, and the only restaurant to have this in the whole West Midlands. Walking on foot to reach Loves, this minimal sleek restaurant sat within a converted Wollen Mill,

may be tucked away, but the five minute walk from Brindley Place is worth it as you take in the myriad of canals on the way. So why is it so good? Steve cites that using just local produce, great care in the kitchen and dedicated staff is the recipe to success. Almost all of the ingredients are now sourced within just 50 miles of the restaurant, including all their meats, fruit and vegetables. Their cheese board is so impressive that it was awarded special notice at the Sustainable Restaurant Awards 2013 where Loves came 4th in the country. This cheese board offers not only a selection of regional cheeses, but all the fruit and vegetables for each of the individual chutneys made to match each cheese is regional and all the biscuits for the board are made on site. Impressive! Expect to come across some unusual cuts of meat and quirky ingredients on the menu. Dishes such as Shropshire chicken wings with mouthwatering Berkswell cheese gnocchi can be found to start. Among main courses, created with an intense interest in intricate presentation will be Warwickshire venison - seared loin and braised belly - shown with elderberry onions, buckwheat and parsnip, and Herefordshire beef (slow-cooked cheek and crispy tongue) with pickled carrots, kale and smoked potato mash will be there to tempt you. Desserts such as caramelized apple with rosemary ice cream and pecan nut granola sound gorgeous enough. But all are offered with recommended dessert wines, of which Loveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s boasts a total of 22 on the list.

Food Served: Friday and Saturday Lunch 12-4pm (Last orders 1.45pm)

Wednesday and Thursday Dinner 7-9.pm (Close at Mid-night)

Sunday Lunch Last Sunday of each month 12-2pm (close at 4.30pm)

Friday and Saturday Dinner 6-9.30pm (Close at mid-night)

Loves Restaurant Browning Street, Birmingham, B16 8FL Tel: 0121 454 5151 www.loves-restaurant.co.uk

Loves really is a treat and great for intimate dining but also offers private dining in a decadent private room for 8, or by using the whole restaurant for private parties up to 45. And for the real foodies, they now have the kitchen table. A ring side seat at a table for up to 4 guests where the tasting menu is cooked whilst you look on inside the kitchen.

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cielo

Dining gUiDE For more information and for bookings, please contact Cielo on: 0121 632 6882 info@cielobirmingham.com

ITALIAN/MED CUISINE

Regarded as Birmingham’s finest Italian restaurant, Cielo creates classic Italian dishes made using the finest ingredients. The restaurant combines great food, service, music and overall ambience to give customers an unforgettable dining experience.

With warm and friendly service, the staff are proud to provide a world class hospitality experience and make visitors feel at home. The chefs are all highly experienced and sincerely love creating dishes that delight diners.

In an exclusive location in the award-winning Brindleyplace development, Cielo overlooks the picturesque Oozells Square. The interior combines pastel shades, chic furniture and a stunning cascading water feature; music and lighting is adjusted to reflect the time of day and mood. The innovative menu puts a contemporary twist on original Italian dishes, ensuring that diners enjoy meals that have been handcrafted with care and attention. Focusing on modern taste and combining traditional techniques, Cielo delights diners with a blend of intricately balanced flavours and beautifully presented plates. Offering a delicious array of pasta and pizza options as well as meat and fish dishes, Cielo truly has something for everyone. The wine list features wonderful wines from all over the world, complementing the range of meals perfectly. What’s more, the restaurant provides diners with a dedicated cocktail menu as a fresh and vibrant alternative to the great selection of wines. Classic cocktails run shoulders with more creative additions to enhance an already innovative menu.

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Perfect for a range of parties and celebrations, the restaurant can accommodate large groups or host intimate get-togethers. Cielo welcomes diners every day of the week, with a Sunday menu that echoes the British Sunday lunch tradition and combines classic flavours with Italian execution. From Monday 2nd December 2013 to Tuesday 24th December 2013, Cielo will be offering a superb Christmas lunch and dinner menu, combining traditional festive dishes with the restaurant’s trademark originality. Opening times: Mon - Thurs: 12-3pm • 5.30-11pm Fri - Sat: 12-11pm Sun: 12-10pm

Fixed menu available: Mon - Thurs: 12-3pm • 5.30-7pm Fri - Sat: 12-7pm

Sunday lunch menu available: 12-7pm

From £14.95 for two courses

Cielo, 6 Oozells Square, Brindley Place, Birmingham B1 2JB

EDMUnDS REStAURAnt Birmingham

Up there with the best restaurants Birmingham has to offer, Edmunds provides a relaxing and welcoming atmosphere for diners to enjoy their world-renowned food. Head Chef Didier Philipot combines classic British cooking with a French influence, placing importance on the very best seasonal produce.

A full Christmas menu is available, placing importance on rich flavours and delicious innovative dishes that provides the perfect occasion to celebrate the festive season. Edmunds is certainly one of the Midlands’ premier restaurants and continually delights visitors with its first-class fine dining experience.

Before heading up the team at Edmunds, Didier was well known in Birmingham after being chef patron of his own restaurant La Toque d’Or, following on from a successful stint at Brockencote Hall in Wocestershire. As recognition of his success, he was awarded the title of ‘Best Chef’ at the Best of Broad Street awards. The restaurant offers a variety of different menus, changing seasonally with the menu du jour, a la carte menu and Didier’s “Surprise” Tasting Menu available all year round. Each menu features a premium selection of dishes, prepared carefully with huge attention to detail and care. Decorated in warm golden tones, the restaurant is beautifully proportioned with superb lighting from three sets of stainless steel drop lamps. Modern sculptures set on the window sills soften the effect of large square cut windows that are draped in taupe and black curtains, with views overlooking Brindleyplace. Edmunds is available to be hired for exclusive use and its intimate dining room can accommodate up to 44 guests and lends itself perfectly to corporate entertaining, celebration events and awards dinners. Chef Didier has created a menu specifically for events and the dedicated event manager and sommelier are available to plan every aspect of the function to help everything run perfectly.

Food Served: Monday: 5.30pm - 10.00pm Tuesday to Friday: 12.00pm 2.00pm & 6.00pm - 10.00pm Saturday: 5.30pm - 10.00pm Sunday: Closed

Menu du Jour Tuesday to Friday: 12.00pm - 2.00pm & 5.30pm - 7.00pm Saturday: 5.30pm - 7.00pm

Edmunds Restaurant Six Brindleyplace, Birmingham, B1 2JB Tel: 0121 633 4944 www.edmundsrestaurant.co.uk

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ASHA’S Birmingham

Multi-award winning and the choice of celebrities, Asha’s Contemporary Indian Bar & Restaurant is Birmingham’s only international Indian restaurant and has a reputation as ‘the’ place to dine and drink. Located on Newhall Street in the heart of the business district just a 5 minute walk from the designer shops and city centre, the stylish bar lounge area is popular with after work drinkers who make the most of both the happy hour and the cocktails whose ‘legendary status’ is maintained thanks to regular training from London’s experts. Combining the delights of North West Indian cuisine with contemporary decor, Asha’s offers its diners a sense of modern Indian luxury. The dining experience is all about excellence, offering only the finest fresh ingredients, quality meats and wonderful spices – some of which are top secret – combined with the talented chefs who work their magic to create delicious dishes that are beautifully presented and very generous in size. This is Asian cuisine at its finest, with all the chefs handpicked from 5 star hotels across India, ensuring they have authentic proven talent. They’re then taken to Dubai to be trained in the style of Asha’s before making their way to Birmingham, a journey that ends with a taste experience that’s second to none.

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Whether you’re drinking cocktails in the lounge or dining in one of the stylish booths or tables in the restaurant, there’s always a great buzz and atmosphere – often accompanied by a few animated whispers as yet another celebrity is spotted enjoying one of the delicious dishes! Regular faces include the likes of renowned chef Heston Blumenthal, singer Jay Sean and Bollywood greats such as Anil Kapoor and Rriyanka Chopra, people that return time and again.

Card, offering card holders a host of great benefits to include 10% off food when dining from the à la carte menu, a complimentary meal from the à la carte menu for every member celebrating their birthday (seven days either side of their birth date), invitations to members only events, complimentary use of the meeting facilities on week days and access to priority cocktail hour offers on weekdays between 12pm and 7pm amongst other benefits!

The discreetly placed awards cabinet pays homage to Asha’s accolades, the restaurant has been included in the Michelin Guide consistently from 2009 to 2013, it’s won Best Restaurant in the West Midlands Curry Awards, Best Restaurant in the UK at the Diners Choice Awards 2010, 2011 and 2012 and most recently a Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence 2013 for the high scoring guest feedback – the awards are genuinely too many to mention here. Whilst feeling most welcome, you also feel part of an elite club when drinking and dining at Asha’s, you feel lucky to have found it amongst the many restaurants in the Midlands.

With various menus offering great choices throughout the day and evening, you can dine from a set menu, tap into a lunchtime offering or be wowed by the à la carte dishes. Whilst they endeavour to accommodate where possible, it’s always best to book a table to avoid being disappointed – and most definitely book a taxi as the cocktail menu is far too tempting to pass up!

In addition to the lounge bar and restaurant area, Asha’s also boast three meeting rooms and a large private dining room that can seat 16. Always one to reward their regular guests, they have also launched their very first International

Food served: Monday - Wednesday Lunch: 12.00pm – 14.30pm Bar & Snacks : 12.00pm – 7.00pm Dinner 5.30pm – 10.30pm Thursday - Friday Lunch: 12.00pm – 14.30pm Bar & Snacks : 12.00pm – 7.00pm Dinner 5.30pm – 11.00pm Saturday 5.00pm – 11.00pm Sunday 5.00pm – 10.00pm Asha’s Edmund House, 12-22 Newhall Street, Birmingham B3 3LX Tel: 0121 200 2767 www.ashasuk.co.uk

34 WinDSoR St Burbage, Leicestershire

34 Windsor St is a new restaurant in the picturesque village of Burbage in the heart of Leicestershire. Opened in May 2013, it is already attracting incredibly positive feedback from customers for its fabulous creative menu and warm, friendly service. In a relaxed atmosphere with comfortable surroundings, importance is placed on the overall dining experience and providing great food, wine and good times. The setting can best be described as contemporarily styled with a hint of vintage. Head Chef Sam Owen has a strong ethos of using quality locally sourced produce and ingredients from their own Secret Garden to create “British food done well”. For the team, it is absolutely essential to create menus which are individual, memorable and of the highest standard. The central aim is to be as self-sufficient as possible, creating home-grown and homemade dishes where the extra effort is immediately appreciated by their customers. That effort has recently been recognised by Visionary Dining, a dedicated service that discovers menus with seasonal balance, appealing flavour combinations and a diverse range of cooking techniques. Restaurants across the country are closely examined and 34 Windsor St won the prize for ‘Menu of the Month’ in August and is up for the overall ‘Menu of the Year’ award. Great menus can be measured by the amount of trouble diners have deciding what to have and the chefs at

34 Windsor St have certainly created a menu provides a vast array of choice. 34 Windsor St is always aiming to surprise and delight their customers and they host tasting evenings once a month to showcase new creations from the kitchen. The daily ‘Tastes Set Lunch Menu’ is served from 12-3pm and is designed to highlight their commitment to local suppliers and growing of their own produce. The evening a la carte menu is innovative and original, offering a superb selection of starters, mains and desserts. The cocktail list is extensive and each one is prepared by one of their highly trained bartenders. Aiming to support the community which it is fast becoming an integral part of, the restaurant supports local charities Hope Against Cancer and Keep the Beat. Tastes Set Evening Menu £28.95 for five courses and served Tuesday-Thursday 6-8:30pm. Tastes Set Lunch Menu: Served 12-3pm Evening A la Carte: Served 6-9pm Afternoon Tea - Served 12-5pm 34 Windsor St Burbage, Hinckley, Leicestershire, LE10 2EF Tel: 01455 234342 www.34windsorst.com

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FinE Dining gUiDE tHE FoUR SEASonS REStAURAnt At SWinFEn HAll HotEl

Don DiEgo Birmingham

Lichfield

Don Diego is Sutton Coldfields’ first truly authentic Spanish Tapas bar. Perhaps, even the West Midlands first authentic Spanish Tapas Bar! Don Diego on Manor Road, is the third Midlands Tapas bar in as many years, from dynamic husband and wife team Alfonso and Emma Yufera-Ruiz. Don Diego will celebrate it’s second birthday in March of 2014 and yet already has been selected to feature in the most recent two editions of the Michelin Guide – something they are very proud of. Emma explained: “Most of our team is Spanish and if our ingredients are not sourced locally they are selected from free range Spanish producers.” “Alfonso or ‘Fonz’ to our friends, family and customers, is from Gran Canaria and has also lived in Madrid and Granada for many years. He is passionate about Spanish food and creating a friendly environment to enjoy it in. Emma added: “We have a young family of our own and welcome everyone from breastfeeding mothers grabbing a light lunch to big family celebrations or couples wanting a quiet corner.”

There are many delicious menus to choose from over the festive period, with party menus starting at just £13.00 per person for a lunch Tapas Menu. Parties can be taken for bookings of six up to 22 people on one table or even larger bookings if split over different tables. Tapas are small dishes or plates which are traditionally served in bars in Spain when ordering a drink. They were originally slices of bread placed on top of the glass in order to protect the drink from flies or dust (the word lid is ‘tapa’ in Spanish). Eventually these slices of bread were then topped with some cheese or vegetables to make a tasty snack. Tapas have evolved over the years and some can only be found in certain areas of Spain where certain ingredients are available. There are some very popular and common Tapas such as Patatas Bravas (spicy red pepper sauce on crispy potatoes) and of course the world famous tortilla Espanola (Spanish omelette). As well as some specialty dishes such as freshly grilled langoustines or slow cooked pork cheek in red wine and Piquillo peppers stuffed with goats cheese and walnuts.

Swinfen Hall Hotel is a stunning Georgian mansion lying in 100 acres of beautiful parkland two miles south of Lichfield on the A38. It has a fine restaurant, which has won a host of awards in recent years including Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year in the Taste of Staffordshire Good Food Awards last Summer. When the sun shines, cocktails can be enjoyed on the terrace overlooking the gardens and ornamental ponds, whilst log fires provide a warm welcome in the lounges in the winter months. The Four Seasons Restaurant, laid with crisp white linen, fine crystal and bespoke Wedgwood china, is a beautiful venue for lunch or dinner. Fresh, quality seasonal produce is the basis of all dishes on the menu, locally sourced wherever possible. Estate-reared venison from the deer park features on the menu in the Autumn and throughout the year the kitchen is supplied with an abundance of fruit and vegetables from the Victorian walled garden. The elegant style of food reflects Head Chef Paul Proffitt’s classical French training combined with a lighter, more modern touch. In addition to the three-course à la carte menu, there is a seven-course Tasting Menu and Vegetarian Tasting Menu. The Tasting Menu has also been teamed up with an excellent flight of wines from the Swinfen cellars and is proving very popular both in the Four Seasons restaurant and in the private dining room.

Open 7 days a week 12 noon - till late (later at weekends) Fixed offers: 2 Tapas for £5.50 every weekday lunch and Monday and Wednesday evenings. We also offer 3 tapas for £9.50 all day on Sundays.

Food Served: Lunch: every day 12.00 – 2.30pm Dinner: Monday – Saturday 7.00pm – 9.30pm

Don Diego Tapas Bar 5 Manor Road, Sutton Coldfield B73 6EJ Tel: 0121 355 5354 www.dondiegobirmingham.co.uk

The Four Seasons Restaurant at Swinfen Hall Hotel Swinfen, Nr Lichfield, Staffs, WS14 9RE Tel: 01543 481 494 www.swinfenhallhotel.co.uk

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SiMPSonS REStAURAnt

PURnEll’S

oPUS At CoRnWAll StREEt

Birmingham

Created by Michelin chef-patron and mentor to Birmingham chefs Andreas Antona, Simpsons Restaurant provides a unique dining experience for its discerning customers. The hand-picked chefs are constantly experimenting with new flavours and textures, striving to create a menu which is unique and guarantees excellence. The restaurant is nestled inside a beautiful manor style house with sumptuous private dining rooms and a beautiful alfresco dining space.

Awarded a Michelin star in January 2009, Purnell’s is one of Birmingham’s premier restaurants offering an outstanding fine-dining experience. Conveniently located in the city centre close to Colmore Row and St Phillips Cathedral, Purnell’s is chic and contemporary, with large windows providing plenty of natural light.

Independent and market fresh, we celebrate British produce through a daily changing menu; flavours of top class ingredients shine through. Our menu features Launceston Cornish lamb , fish delivered daily from Brixham market, Aberdeenshire grass-fed beef and local cheeses, fruit and vegetables.

The restaurant has its own bar and lounge area for exclusive use of diners, allowing guests to relax with a drink before or after their meal. Accommodating small groups and larger parties looking for a private dining experience, Purnell’s welcomes everyone with its elegant ambience and relaxed atmosphere.

Every day we offer a set price Market Menu at £9.50 for one course, £12.50 for two, and £15.50 for three courses... How do we do it? We deliver the most delicious dishes at the best value for our customers by being ingredient-led, buying each day from our family of suppliers around the British Isles.

Using fine regional suppliers from the Midlands, as well as exceptional produce from around the world, only the best ingredients go into Simpsons’ world-class dishes. With original preparation and cooking techniques, customers go home knowing that they have enjoyed a meal that has been made with love and care. From intimate dinners to family parties, Simpsons can cater to functions of all kinds. The beautiful Dom Perignon Dining Room, boasting beautiful Georgian features and overlooking the elegant terraces and gardens, can accommodate up to 18 guests.

Head Chef Glynn Purnell is one of the country’s rising culinary stars and has assembled a team who are as passionate and dedicated as him. Winning dozens of awards and accolades, Glynn’s ambitions have remained firmly rooted in his hometown and he achieved the incredible honour of winning the city’s first Michelin star.

‘Exhilarating modern cooking’ AA Restaurant Guide 2014 2 AA rosettes since 2006 ‘Consistently excellent market-driven food’ The Good Food Guide 2014 Private Rooms. Dinner Series. Kitchen Table.

The dedicated culinary team ensure that guests are satisfied every time, having enjoyed a majestic dining experience.

Purnell’s is a shining jewel in Birmingham’s culinary crown and remains one of the most popular and celebrated restaurants in the city.

Food Served: Lunch: 12pm – 2pm. Monday – Saturday Dinner: every day 7pm – 9.30pm

Tuesday to Friday lunch 12 noon - 4.30pm (Last orders 1.30pm) Tuesday to Saturday dinner 7pm - 1am (Last orders, 9.30pm, licensed until midnight) Sundays & Mondays Closed

Lunch: Monday-Friday Dinner: Monday-Saturday

Simpsons Restaurant 20 Highfield Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 3DU Tel: 0121 454 3434 www.simpsonsrestaurant.co.uk

Purnell’s 55 Cornwall Street, Birmingham, B3 2DH Tel: 0121 212 9799 www.purnellsrestaurant.com

Opus at Cornwall Street 54 Cornwall Street, Birmingham, B3 2DE Tel: 0121 200 2323 www.opusrestaurant.co.uk

Find us on Twitter: @OpusCornwallSt

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tHE BRASSERiE At MAlloRy CoURt

tHE Dining RooM At MAlloRy CoURt

Leamington Spa, Warwickshire

Providing a laid-back atmosphere with an art-deco inspired interior, the Brasserie serves delicious modern European dishes and British classics, and has been celebrated with two AA Rossettes.

For those looking for a high-quality, fine dining experience, the newly refurbished Dining Room at Mallory Court Hotel boasts opulent surroundings, a world-class menu and a huge number of awards and accolades. The beautiful oak-panelled restaurant has incomparable views of the gardens and Warwickshire countryside beyond.

In the stunning grounds of Mallory Court Hotel, the Brasserie provides a spectacular dining experience at affordable prices. A fully-stocked cocktail bar, upstairs area for private functions and walled garden for al fresco dining enhance the restaurant. The hugely popular ‘Jazz in the Braz’ events bring music from some of the region’s leading jazz musicians. Guests can relax and unwind to the soothing sounds of jazz whilst enjoying a meal or drinks in chic surroundings. Ideal for relaxing with friends and family at an informal dinner, the Brasserie ensures unparalleled hospitality that creates memorable experiences for every diner that visits.

The talented kitchen team are deeply passionate about each and every dish, dedication that earned Mallory Court’s Dining Room a coveted 3 AA Rosettes. With menus bursting with rich flavour and innovation, the dishes reflect the best seasonal produce from local suppliers and the hotel’s own well stocked kitchen gardens and are regularly refreshed to showcase the latest creations from the kitchen.

34 WinDSoR St Burbage, Leicestershire

34 Windsor St is the ideal venue for lazy afternoon teas with a full selection of finger sandwiches, homemade cakes, pastries and scones. It can be taken in the lush patio, bright conservatory or main restaurant. For individual celebrations or parties, the staff at 34 Windsor St are able to design a bespoke menu based around personal preferences and seasonal ingredients. A huge variety of occasions are catered for including birthdays, christenings, wedding brunches and anniversaries. Sit down meals are available for up to 70 people or the whole venue can be hired exclusively for up to 200 people.

The Dining Room puts food and drink at the forefront of the guest experience and combine using modern techniques with revisiting ones which have been forgotten. Catering for everything from afternoon tea to lavish private banquets, the experienced team at Mallory Court Hotel meet their guests’ every desire.

Photography by Noel Murphy

Open all day Monday - Saturday 12pm - 2.30pm (last orders) 6.30pm - 9.30pm (last orders) and for Sunday Lunch 12pm - 3.30pm (last orders). It is closed on Sunday evening.

Lunch 12 noon last orders 1.45pm (closed Saturday Lunch) Dinner 6.30pm last orders 9.00pm (last orders on a Sunday 8.30pm)

The Brasserie at Mallory Court Harbury Lane, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, CV33 9QB Tel: 01926 453939 www.mallory.co.uk

The Dining Room at Mallory Court Harbury Lane, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, CV33 9QB Tel: 01926 330214 www.mallory.co.uk

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Mini Morning Tea for Two Thursday’s & Friday’s 10:30am-12:00pm 2 x scones, 2 x cake of the day, 2 x pastry of the day, tea or coffee each £9.95 Tastes Set Lunch Menu: Served 12-3pm Evening A la Carte: Served 6-9pm Afternoon Tea - Served 12-5pm 34 Windsor St Burbage, Hinckley, Leicestershire, LE10 2EF Tel: 01455 234342 www.34windsorst.com

Dining

Inspirational visits three of The Mailbox’s restaurants...

tHE oRiEntAl

HARvEy niCHolS ESPRESSo CAFé

BAR EStilo

The Oriental is an innovative restaurant and bar that brings together the best cuisine of Malaysia, Thailand and China. Set alongside the canal and offering stunning views, the restaurant is within easy walking distance of the ICC on Broad Street and China Town.

A chic and stylish spot for breakfast, lunch or early dinner, the Harvey Nichols Espresso Café is an extremely popular destination for Mailbox shoppers. Headed up by Head Chef Michael Roberts, the main focus is on great tasting, locally sourced food and drink.

Bar Estilo is a contemporary Mediterranean restaurant specialising in tapas, and also offering a range of light mains, burgers, grills, pastas, paella and other speciality dishes.

The restaurant aims to tempt and delight diners with a selection of the finest Oriental food and wine, authentically prepared by the talented chefs. A Lunch Bar Menu is available every day, offering quick bites, noodles and speciality rice.

Located inside one of The Mailbox’s flagship stores, the café is spacious, light and airy, offering views across The Mailbox entrance. Fantastic full English breakfasts are available until noon, and the range of hot food features cuisine from around the world.

The only fine dining restaurant in the city to offer authentic Malaysian food, the chefs prepare culinary masterpieces that will make you feel like you have been transported thousands of miles to the heart of Asia. The dishes are presented beautifully and fans of Asian cuisine will want to come back time and time again.

The modern interior creates a relaxed feel that is perfect for afternoon tea with friends, while enjoying one of the indulgent cakes or pastries. The Perrier-Jouet Champagne Bar stretches across the store’s iconic glass bridge and is ideal for a glass of bubbly while enjoying the views across the city.

The relaxed bar and stylish décor make Bar Estilo the perfect place for a relaxed lunch or dinner with family and friends. A lively atmosphere and warm ambience ensure that customers have a superb dining experience and go home happy every time. The range of tapas options is a firm favourite with visitors and the perfect way to sample a wide selection of what the restaurant has to offer. Prepared by their talented chefs, the food is both delicious and affordable, with first class service.

Sunday - Thursday 12noon to 11pm Friday and Saturday 12noon to 11.30pm

Monday - Saturday: 10am to 6.30pm (food served until 6pm) Sunday: 11am to 4.30pm (food served until 4pm) Afternoon Tea Monday - Saturday 2.30pm to 5.30pm Sunday 1.30pm to 3.30pm

Monday -Sunday 10am till late

The Oriental Tel: 0121 633 9988 www.theoriental.uk.com

Harvey Nichols Espresso Café Tel: 0121 616 6000 www.harveynichols.com/ground-floor-birmingham-cafe

Bar Estilo Tel: 0121 643 3443 www.barestilo.co.uk

Park at The Mailbox to visit all these restaurants and many more. Wharfside Street, The Mailbox, Birmingham, B1 1RD

www.mailboxlife.com For information please call:

0121 632 1000 Follow us on Twitter Like us on Facebook

109

FINE DINING GUIDE

HOSPITALITY REDEFINED Exciting Premier League a c t i o n c o m i n g u p at V i l l a Pa r k

Ex pe rie nce ou r awa r d -w i n n i n g h o sp i tal i ty r ec o g n i sed as the Bes t Matc hday Hos p i ta li t y E xp e r i en c e i n th e c o u n t ry. d i f f er en t pac kag es ava ila b le t o s u i t a l l ta stes an d b u d g ets f r o m j u st £ 9 0 ( I NC VAT )

Cardiff City

Sunderland

K.O • 3.00pm

Man United

Crystal Palace

K.O • 1.30pm

K.O • 3.00pm

Saturday 9th November

Sunday 15th December

Saturday 30th November

Thursday 26th December

FOR CMYK PROCESS ONLY PLEASE REFER TO READ ME FILE

Call

0 8 0 0 6 1 2 0 9 6 0 (option 1) • or visit w w w.avhe .co.uk Overall Matchday Hospitality Experience Winner at the football hospitality awards 2013

110

Aston VillA FootbAll Club Raising the standard for Hospitality

McGregors Restaurant on a matchday Aston Villa have always been noted for outstanding hospitality and there is no question that our attractive offering has been redefined over the past 12 months. For the second year in a row we have been recognised as having the best hospitality in the Barclays Premier League. The club scooped the top gong at the Football Hospitality Awards, held at Reading’s Madejski Stadium. Villa beat off all clubs in England and Scotland as well as national venues such as Wembley, Hampden Park and Croke Park to the prestigious Best Overall Match Hospitality prize. Alison Plant, head of sponsorship and hospitality, said: “We really couldn’t be happier. To win the main gong once is fantastic. To win it twice – and two years in a row at that – is terrific. We work really hard behind the scenes to make sure our standards are always immensely high. We also attempt to break new ground and always strive to be pioneers in our industry. These awards give us a boost and tell us we are doing the right things but also encourage us to keep on going in our ongoing efforts to improve.”

Check out our website www.avhe.co.uk or call one of the sales team, on 0800 612 0960 (option 1) for more details.

As well as being recognised as having the best hospitality experience in the country, we have broken new ground in the industry through our sustainability work. We have done this by championing responsibility, sustainability and ethical practise. Villa didn’t follow the crowd. We led the way in developing pioneering ways to initiate best practice with trade chiefs and our clients.

Some of our extensive sustainability work includes: •

All catering suppliers being based locally within the five counties surrounding the West Midlands. Not only does this help to reduce our carbon footprint, but also ensures that produce is local and fresh.

•

Continued development of our allotment, expanding our site and planting more herbs and vegetables which are used in our Community Kitchen, Directors Suite on a matchday and also in our training restaurant, Restaurant VMF.

In addition to supplying the club with produce, more than 1,000 bunches of herbs have recently been ordered from the allotment to meet the demands of wholesale firm Interfruit, who supply many of the city’s top eateries. •

Harvesting rain water from the Holte End stand to water our allotment.

•

Earlier in 2013, Villa Park became the second football venue to become a Carbon Neutral Stadium, offsetting our carbon emissions through credits with life-changing projects in India, Kenya and Brazil.

We are focused on making a difference and delivering an even better experience – Hospitality Redefined. Whether you are looking to take hospitality at a single game, or something more permanent over the course of the season, we’re sure to have a package to suit.

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FINE DINING GUIDE

INSPIRATIONAL

FinE Dining gUiDE

FinESt CAtCH Birmingham

Finest Catch really does offer truly exceptional value for money and customers are consistently surprised by the portions they get at such affordable prices.

If you asked people to name one iconic meal that encompasses Britishness, most people would answer – fish and chips. Finest Catch is an innovative chain of restaurants that is committed to providing quality fish and chips at affordable prices. Providing a warm welcome to each and every one of its customers, Finest Catch is proud to provide first-class service and ensure that no one goes home from one of its restaurants hungry!

A family of four can enjoy a feast, including drinks, milk shakes for the children, desserts and plenty of side orders for under £40, which is very rare these days. Finest Catch work hard to ensure that their customer service is second-to-none. Every staff member goes through extensive training and customers really do come first. At Finest Catch, the customer is treated as the number one priority, from the welcome at the door to the “nothing’s too much trouble” attitude of all the staff.

Using fresh ingredients, Finest Catch ensure that their signature dish is delicious – the fish batter is crispy and light and the chips are golden brown and cooked to perfection. Other chip shop classics are available including scampi, chicken and sausage meals, alongside accompanying buttered bread, mushy peas and baked beans. The portions are generous for people looking to enjoy a big meal, but those looking for a lighter meal or just a snack are equally accommodated for.

Finest Catch is about providing a fantastic overall dining experience and the restaurant more than delivers every time!

Finest Catch is certainly expanding quickly and now has three branches across the West Midlands in Henley-inArden, Tipton and most recently, Shirley. They also have strong ambitions to open new restaurants nationwide.

The original branch in Henley-in-Arden only opened in 2012, but something immediately captured the public’s imagination, turning it into an overnight success. Now things are moving quickly, there seems to be no stopping Finest Catch and the sky truly is the limit! One of the defining messages of Finest Catch is that everybody is welcome - families with young children, couples, friends and large celebrations of all kind. The company motto ‘Where people come first - and come back again!’ is certainly true of many of Finest Catch’s visitors who are hooked from the first visit! Styled on a 1950’s American Diner, the interior of each restaurant is quite spectacular. The stylish booths, tables and comfortable chairs give Finest Catch an authentically retro feel, enhanced by a juke box stocked with superb sing-a-long classics. Diners can choose their favourite hits and complete their dining experience with a truly personal touch! The atmosphere is always lively and bustling, yet the staff are always friendly and attentive, meeting their customers’ every need. Though big meals are their speciality, customers are welcome to come in for a coffee, ice cream or just a bowl of chips! The bar is fully licensed, with a full drinks menu offering a wide range of choice so customers can enjoy a pint of beer or glass of wine with their food. Every main meal comes with complimentary bread and butter and seconds of chips. Hundreds of customers have visited Trip Advisor to rave about the value, service and exceptional food at each of the Finest Catch restaurants. It is encouraging to see that so many customers have been compelled to write about the fantastic experiences they have had at the restaurants.

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Food Served: 12-10pm Seven days a week

Finest Catch High Street, Princes End, Tipton DY4 9JF Tel: 0121 557 0486 Birmingham Road, Henley-in-Arden, B95 5QR Tel: 01564 793783 1097 Stratford Road, Shirley, B90 4ED Tel: 0121 557 0486 www.finestcatch.co.uk

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Meet the Dividend Aristocrats An elite band of companies have not onlyISpaid out URE dividends continuously for ADVERT ING FEAT ADVERT IS ING FEAT URE decades, some have also managed to increase them every time.

Meet Meet the the Dividend Dividend Aristocrats Aristocrats

They are called the Dividend Aristocrats, the companies that have established a long history of growing their dividends. It is an elite group: in the US, index provider Standard & Poor’s lists 51 companies that have increased their dividends, year on year, for a quarter of a century or more in its S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats index. Meanwhile, Europe, Aristocrats, the S&P Europe 350 Dividend They are called theinDividend the companies that They are called the Dividend Aristocrats, the companies that Aristocrats index of companies with at least a decade of dividend have established a long history of growing their dividends. It They are called the Dividend Aristocrats, thedividends. companies that have established a long history of growing their It is growth has 40 members. is an elite group: in the US, index provider Standard & Poor’san have established a long history provider of growing their dividends. It is 51 an elite 51 group: in the US, & Poor’syear lists lists companies that index have increased Standard their dividends, on elite group: insome the index provider Standard &500 Poor’s listsfor51a companies that have increased their dividends, year on Dividend year, The lists companies with phenomenal records. Emerson, year, forinclude a quarter ofUS, a century or more in its S&P companies that have increased their dividends, year on year, for a quarter of aindex. centuryMeanwhile, or ininitsEurope, S&P 500theDividend the US manufacturing andmore technology company, started toAristocrats increase Aristocrats S&P Europe 350 quarter of a century or more in its S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats Aristocrats companies with at least decade index. Meanwhile, inindex Europe, the S&P Europe 350&a Dividend itsDividend dividend back in 1956; theofhealthcare group Johnson Johnson index. Meanwhile, in Europe, the S&P Europe 350 Dividend of dividend growth has 40 members. Aristocrats with at leastCorp, a decade dividend has a 50-yearindex recordofofcompanies dividend rises; Sysco one ofof the US’s Aristocrats index of companies at least a decade of dividend growthfood has 40 members. biggest distributors, claims awith 42-year record; and health and The lists someClark companies phenomenal records. growth hasinclude 40Kimberly members. hygiene group has paidwith a dividend for 78 years, and Emerson, the US manufacturing and technology company, The lists include somefor companies phenomenal Emerson, increased every year the past with 40. For Europeanrecords. companies, the started to increase its dividend back in 1956;records. the healthcare The lists include some companies with phenomenal Emerson, the USismanufacturing and but technology company,Tesco started increase record generally shorter, still impressive: has to increased group & Johnson has a 50-year record of dividend rises; USJohnson manufacturing and technology started to itspay-out dividend in 1956; the healthcare group & increase Johnson itsthe byback an average of almost 14% company, each yearJohnson since 1984, while Sysco Corp, one of the US’s biggest food distributors, claims a its dividend in 1956; the healthcare group Johnson Johnson has a 50-yearback record of dividend rises; Sysco Corp, one of& the US’s pharmaceutical group Roche has a 25-year growth record. 42-year record; and ofhealth and rises; hygiene group Kimberly Clark has a 50-year record dividend Sysco Corp, one the US’s biggest distributors, record; and of health and has paidfood a dividend for 78claims years,a 42-year and increased every year for biggest food distributors, claims a 42-year record; and health and hygiene group Kimberly Clark has paid a dividend for 78 years, and Aristocrat is an appropriate sobriquet for the indices of consistent the past 40. For European companies, the record is generally hygiene group Kimberly Clark has paid a dividend for 78 years, and increasedpayers: every year for past the past 40. For European the dividend over the fiveTesco years, both the US companies, and shorter, but still impressive: has increased itsEuropean pay-out increased every year for the past 40. For European companies, the record generally stilleach impressive: Tesco has aristocrats have produced performance wellsince above1984, thatincreased of the by an isaverage of shorter, almosta but 14% year while record is generally shorter, but still impressive: Tesco has increased its pay-out by an average of almost each year sincerecord. 1984, while relevant wider stock market. Ashas Bob14% a managing director pharmaceutical group Roche a Wyckoff, 25-year growth itsUS-based pay-out by angroup average of almost 14% each year since 1984, while Roche has a Browne, 25-year growth record. atpharmaceutical fund manager Tweedy, says: pharmaceutical group Roche has asobriquet 25-year growth record. Aristocrat is an appropriate for the indices of

That is particularly so in periods like the present, when economic growth is subdued.

An elite band of companies have not only paid out dividends continuously for An elite band of companies have not only paid dividends A 5%out dividend yield, whichcontinuously is currently available for from UK Dividend decades, some have also managed to increaseAristocrats them every time. and Royal Dutch Shell, provides such as Vodafone decades, some have also managed to increasea healthy themannual every time. return even in itself; if that dividend is growing,

That is particularly so in periods like the present, when That is particularly sohas in risen periods the present, and Vodafone’s pay-out by like an average of 7% when a year economic over the economic growth is subdued.

That is particularly so in periods like on theyour present, when economic growth is subdued. past five years, then the annual return investment will also growth is subdued. be increasing. With base rates stuck at 0.5%, shares that can offer A 5% dividend yield,which is currently available from UK Dividend 5% dividend which isannual currently available from Dividend aAdecent yieldsuch andyield, aasconsistent growth are particularly valuable. Aristocrats Vodafone and Royal Dutch Shell,UK provides 5% dividend whicheven is currently available from UK Dividend Aristocrats suchyield, as Vodafone and Royal Shell, provides aA healthy annual return in itself; ifDutch that dividend is such as Vodafone Royal Dutch Shell, provides growing, Vodafone’s pay-out has risen an isaverage acommitment healthy and annual return even inand itself; ifimposes that dividend growing, AAristocrats to growing dividends also abydiscipline on the aand healthy annual return even in by itself; if that of dividend is annual growing, of 7% athat year over past five years, then Vodafone’s has risen an average 7% athe year over the company canpay-out also bethe good for shareholders. Wyckoff says: and Vodafone’s pay-out has risen by an average of 7% a year overalso the return on your investment will also be increasing. past five years, then the annual return on your investment will past five years, then the annual return on your investment will also With base rates at stuck 0.5%,at shares that that can can offer be increasing. With stuck base rates 0.5%, shares offer be increasing. With base rates stuck at 0.5%, shares that can offer a‘Companies yield and a consistent annual growth are particularly adecent decent yield and a consistent annual growth are particularly valuable. across the world, as a group, do not have valuable. a decent yield and a consistent annual growth are particularly valuable. a great record of investing retained earnings.You often see A commitment to growing dividendsbuilding, also imposes a discipline on the companies engaged in empire getting involved AAcommitment to growingdividends dividendsalso also imposes a discipline commitment to also growing imposes a discipline on the company that can be good for shareholders. Wyckoff says: in ill-judged acquisitions. If they are paying out a good oncompany the company that can also be good for shareholders. Wyckoff thatof cantheir also beearnings good for shareholders. Wyckoff proportion in dividends, they says: can do says: less harm.’ ‘Companies across across the theworld, world,asasa agroup, group,dodo not have ‘Companies not have ‘Companies across the world, as a group, do not have great record investing retained earnings. You often see aa great recordofof investing retained earnings. You a great record of investing retained earnings. You often see companies engaged empire involved The Dividend Aristocratsincome frombuilding, a in range ofgetting sectors although, often see companies engaged empire building, companies engaged in empire building, getting involved ill-judged acquisitions. Ifill-judged theyfrom are consumer, paying out a good getting involved acquisitions. ininboth the US and Europe,incompanies healthcare in ill-judged acquisitions. If they are paying out a good If they are paying out a good proportion proportion of their earnings in dividends, they can do and financial sectors are predominant. That reflects the fact that they proportion of their earnings in dividends, they can do consistent dividend payers: over the past five years, both the of their earnings in dividends, they can do lesstoharm.’ Aristocrat is an appropriate sobriquet for the indices of consistent tend be mature businesses with dependable income. US and European aristocrats have produced a performance well less harm.’ Aristocrat is an appropriate sobriquet for the indices of consistent dividend payers: over the past five years, the US andand European ‘Empirical studies from both theboth academic the less harm.’ above thatpayers: of the relevant wider market. Bob Wyckoff, dividend over the past fivestock years, both theAs USwith andthat European aristocrats have produced a show performance well above of the Wyckoff says these Dividend Aristocrats tend to be companies professional community that stocks aboveaaristocrats managinghavedirector at aUS-based fundwellmanager Tweedy, Aristocrats come from a globally range ofdiversified, sectors produced performance above that of the The The Dividend Dividend come from a are range of sectors although, relevant wider stock market. As Wyckoff, abetter managing director that do not Aristocrats have excessive debt, average dividends tend toBobproduce returns Browne, says: although, in both the US and Europe, companies from The Dividend Aristocrats come from a range of sectors although, relevant wider stock market. As Bob Wyckoff, a managing director in both the US products and Europe, fromof consumer, healthcare at US-based with multiple or companies a diversity customers. These over time.’ fund manager Tweedy, Browne, says: consumer, healthcare and financial sectors are predominant. in both the US and Europe, companies from consumer, healthcare at US-based fund manager Tweedy, Browne, says: and financial predominant. That businesses, reflects the fact they factors tend sectors also to are make them steady withthat some ‘Empirical studies from both the academic and the That reflects sectors the factarethat they tend That to bereflects mature businesses and financial predominant. the fact that they tend to be to mature businesses with dependable income. resistance recession. ‘If you have the opportunity to buy professional community show that stocks with above- with dependable income. tend to be mature businesses with dependable income. ‘Empirical studiesbecause from both the academic and the into one of these when prices are attractive, it should be That is not surprising are crucial to investment. average dividends tenddividends to produce better returns ‘Empirical studies from boththat the academic and the a Wyckoff saysthese thesehe Dividend Aristocratstend tendto to companies professional community show that stocks with abovegood investment,’ added. Aristocrats shares will increase in price, the While we may all aim to buy Wyckoff says Dividend be be companies over time.’ Wyckoff says these Dividend Aristocrats tend to be companies professional community show that stocks with abovethat do not have excessive debt, are globally diversified, average dividends tend to produce better returns dividend offers a reliable return while you wait for that capital gain. that do not have excessive debt, are globally diversified, that do not have excessive debt, are globally diversified, average dividends tend to produce better returns with multiple multiple products products orora adiversity diversityof ofcustomers. customers. These over time.’ These That is not surprising because dividends are crucial to with with multiple products orthem a steady diversity of customers. These over time.’ While we may all aim to buy shares that will factors factors tend also to make steady businesses, with tend also to make them businesses, with some investment. To recieve the exclusive St.James’s Place golbal market update or to find out moresome factors tend also to make them steady businesses, with some totorecession. ‘If‘Ifyou thetheopportunity increase in price, the dividend offers a reliable return you resistance resistance recession. youhave have opportunityto tobuy buy aboutwhile our Personal Wealth Management Review Service, please contact: resistance to recession. ‘If you have the opportunity to into one of these when prices are attractive, it should be wait for that capital gain. be That is not surprising because dividends are crucial to investment. into one of these when prices are attractive, it should buy Janine Edwards Simon Fleet of thesehe That notmay surprising dividends to ininvestment. good investment,’ added. goodone investment,’ hewhen added.prices are attractive, it should be that are willcrucial increase price, the a ainto Whileiswe all aim because to buy shares Senior Partner of St.a James’s Place good investment,’ hePrinciple added. Partner of St. James’s Place price,gain. the While weoffers may all aim to return buy shares dividend a reliable whilethat youwill waitincrease for that in capital Wealth Management Wealth The opinions are not intended to for be relied upongain. as a forecast, research or investmentManagement advice and does not constitute a dividend offers aexpressed reliable return while you wait that capital

recommendation, offer or solicitation buy or sell any securities orT:to01949 adopt any strategy. T: 01676to530606 842828 The value of an investment any income produced it can as wellSt.James’s as rise. You may get back lessupdate than the amount invested. Tofrom recieve thefall exclusive Place golbal market or to find out more www.janineedwards.co.uk www.sjpp.co.uk/simonfleet Equities do not provide the security of capital associated with aSt.James’s deposit account with amarket bank or building To recieve the exclusive PlaceReview golbal update orcontact: tosociety. find out more about our Personal Wealth Management Service, please about our Personal Wealth Management Review Service, please contact:

The Partner represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Fleet Conduct Authority) for the purpose of Janine Edwards Simon advising solely on the Group’s wealth management productsJanine and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. Edwards Simon Fleet Senior Partner of St. James’s Place Principle Partner of St. James’s Place The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the title ‘Partner’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

Senior Partner of St. James’s Place Wealth Management Wealth Management T: 01676 530606

PrincipleManagement Partner of St. James’s Place Wealth Wealth Management T: 01949 842828

www.janineedwards.co.uk

www.sjpp.co.uk/simonfleet

T: 01676 530606 www.janineedwards.co.uk

T: 01949 842828 www.sjpp.co.uk/simonfleet

An elite band of companies An have elite not bandonly of Ancompanies paid elite An out elite band dividends band have of companies of notcompanies continuously only paid havehave out notfor dividends only not only paidpaid continuously out dividends out dividen for c Traditionally, technology companies have been seen as growth companies, bought for decades, some have also managed decades, some to increase decades, havedecades, also them some managed every some havetime. have to also increase also managed managed them to increase every to increase time. themthem everyevery timet the prospect of rapid profit and therefore share price growth rather than for their income.

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Appleevery resumed last spring after a year 12-year gap recordCisco is generally shorter, butincrease still impressive: record isTesco generally has August. increased shorter, record but record isaare still generally impressive: is generally shorter, Tesco shorter, but still but increased impressive: impressive: has Tesco increased has of increased great record of investing retained aTesco great earnings. record You often investing a see greataretained record great record ofearnings investin of in rare, shares that canhas offer astill decent yield and consistent annual while announced a 75% in its dividend last its pay-out by an ofTweedy, almost 14% its each pay-out year ‘Typically since by an1984, average while itsofpay-out almost itscompanies pay-out by 14% an are average each by particularly anengaged year average ofsince almost ofattractive 1984, almost 14% while each 14% year each since year1984, sinceengaged while 1984, while in empire companies getting involved companies in empire companies engaged building, engage in gee growth to building, investors. 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To register for our E-Briefing service, keeping you informed of the latest market, To recieve the exclusive St.James’s Place golbal recieve market the exclusive updateTo or St.James’s recieve to To findrecieve out the Place exclusive more the golbal exclusive St.James’s marketSt.James’s update Placeorgolba Place to fi investment and wealth management news,Management contactTo Janine Senior Partner about our Personal Wealth about Review ourEdwards, Service, Personalplease Wealth about contact: Management our about Personal our Personal Review WealthWealth Service, Management Management please Review conta of St. James’s Place Wealth 530606, by emailJanine Janine Management Edwards on 01676Janine SimonEdwards Fleet Janine Edwards Edwards Simon Fleet Sim Senior Partner ofor St.visit James’s Place Senior Principle Partner Partner of St.ofJames’s Senior St. James’s Senior Place Partner Place Partner of St. Principle James’s of St. James’s Partner Place Place of St.Princ Jam janine.edwards@sjpp.co.uk www.janineedwards.co.uk Wealth Management

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The Partner represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of www.janineedwards.co.uk www.janineedwards.co.uk www.janineedwards.co.uk www.sjpp.co.uk/simonflee www advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out www.janineedwards.co.uk on www.sjpp.co.uk/simonfleet the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the title ‘Partner’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

The Partner represents only St. James’s Place Wealth The Partner Management represents plconly (which The St.Partner is James’s authorised The Partner represents Placeand Wealth represents regulated only Management St.only James’s by the St.Financial James’s plc Place (which Wealth Place Conduct is authorised Management Wealth Authority) Management andplcregulated for (which theplcpurpose is(which byauthorised the of Financial is authorised andConduct regulated and regulated Authority) by the Fin by advising solely on the Group’s wealth management advising products solely and on the services, Group’s advising more wealth details advising solely management ofonsolely which the Group’s on are products the setGroup’s wealth outand on the management services, wealth Group’s management more website products detailswww.sjp.co.uk/products. products of and which services, and areservices, set more out details onmore the of Group’s details whichofwebsite are which set out are www.sjp on setthe ou The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titleThe ‘Partner’ ‘St. James’s are marketing Place Partnership’ terms The ‘St. used The and James’s to‘St. the describe James’s title Place‘Partner’ St. Partnership’ Place James’s Partnership’ arePlace marketing and representatives. the and title terms the ‘Partner’ title used‘Partner’ toaredescribe marketing areSt. marketing James’s terms used Place terms torepresentativ used describe to descr St.

To register for our E-Briefing service, keeping you informed of the latest market, To register for our E-Briefing service, keeping you informed of the latest market, investment and wealth management news, contact Janine Edwards, Senior Partner investment and wealth management news, contact Janine Edwards, Senior Partner of St. James’s Place Wealth Management on 01676 530606, by email of St. James’s Place Wealth Management on 01676 530606, by email janine.edwards@sjpp.co.uk or visit www.janineedwards.co.uk janine.edwards@sjpp.co.uk or visit www.janineedwards.co.uk

The Partner represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of The Partner represents only St. James’s Place Wealth products Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management and services, more details of which are set out on Financial the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. advising solely The on the managementand products services, detailsterms of which out onSt. theJames’s Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. ‘St.Group’s James’s wealth Place Partnership’ the titleand ‘Partner’ aremore marketing usedare toset describe Place representatives. The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the title ‘Partner’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

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Corporate Golf Days “Augusta does not compare with Nailcote” Brian Barnes (below, left), 1995 & ‘96 Senior British Open Champion, 6 times Ryder Cup star and Super Seniors Champion at the Farmfoods British Par 3, 2012.

Nailcote Hall is the perfect venue for a corporate event. Our golf course offers exceptional golf, located in the heart of Warwickshire and surrounded by the region’s exceptional views. Our Cromwell Course really is one of the best Par 3 courses in the world, and we are proud to offer it to you and your corporate guests for a business experience. What better place to mix business with pleasure than a championship course described as ‘better than Augusta’ by Brian Barnes.

Tony Jacklin CBE, Peter Baker & Willie Thorne, Len Goodman and Ian Woosnam OBE seen playing at the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship held annually at Nailcote Hall.

Our bespoke packages offer a variety of choices, including 18 holes of golf on our championship course, food and drinks. For companies looking to create a special golfing day we can offer selected menus, professional organisation of your event and sporting guest speakers. Whatever you need to make your day work, our team are here to make it happen.

For more information please call Rick Cressman on: 07974 386380 Nailcote Hall, Nailcote Lane, Berkswell, Warwickshire, CV7 7DE Telephone: 02476 466174 • Facsimile: 02476 470720 • Email: info@nailcotehall.co.uk

E NJ OY WO RL D CL A SS E XCLUSI V E S IN A WORLD CL A SS VENUE If you are among those who enjoy the finest things in life, it may be time to become a Club Wembley member. Be there as all major trophies are won, and experience world-class entertainment, unrivalled hospitality and a guaranteed seat to all the biggest events until 2017*. You can also enjoy exclusive members’ opportunities such as England training, breakfast with the England Manager, FA Cup Legends Dinners, members’ golf days and much more. From your arrival via dedicated member entrances to your comfortable premium seat, everything is designed to make your visits more pleasurable, more memorable and more rewarding. For more information on one of the UK’s most exclusive clubs, call Huw Graham on 020 8795 9527 or email huw.graham@wembleystadium.com

*Club Wembley membership entitles the member the option to purchase one ticket/hospitality package per licensed seat held (subject to terms and conditions specified by Club Wembley). Member events are usually offered on a ballot basis, are not guaranteed, and may be subject to change. Excludes: Rugby World Cup; Rugby League World Cup; any association football match staged at the Stadium where the event holder is not The FA or the Football League; and any bid event including the UEFA Champions League Final and the UEFA Cup Final. We will try to secure tickets from the event owner wherever possible.

business and finance

We discover the power of Britainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heritage brands as they continue to find their way into some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most exclusive homes.

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In a global economic slowdown, China’s consumer sector continues to grow and so does their desire for luxury products. Increasing numbers of Chinese people are travelling overseas to Europe and the UK to get their hands on the latest jewellery, watches, clothing and accessories at a much lower price than they would pay in their home country. They are the world’s highest spending tourists and it has been estimated that in 2014, the Chinese tourist market could be worth as much as £1.4 billion to the UK economy. The question remains: what is the best way to utilise the fastest-growing highest-spending consumer market the world has ever seen?

Picture courtesy of Tupungato

The Chinese middle class is still rapidly growing, as is their disposable income. In China, the luxury market is worth an estimated $35 billion, second only to the US. Luxury products are highly sought-after and consumers are increasingly using online forums to discuss the latest luxury goods. In China, it is vitally important for overseas brands to be strong in order to develop status and respect and gather a committed following. According to The Economist, from 2007-2011 many luxury goods firms enjoyed double digit annual growth in China. Though this has begun to slow recently, firms like Burberry still experienced a sales growth of 20% in 2013 so far. Travel is a luxury afforded to only the richest Chinese people, and when they visit foreign countries, they like to spend big. Many big businesses are calling for less tightly controlled visa restrictions in order to encourage Chinese people to visit the UK. The statistics speak for themselves; at Heathrow airport, Chinese people account for less than 1 per cent of the total airport traffic but account for nearly a quarter of all luxury goods sales. Michael Ward, managing director of Harrods has said “Chinese shoppers represent the most significant and rapidly growing proportion of our international customer base.” While Chinese tourists can travel across Europe on a single visa, they must apply for a separate one for the UK which is more expensive and complicated than its European counterpart. There are a number of factors for UK luxury brand companies to consider when appealing to Chinese shoppers. Most come as part of a large tour group so VIP rooms can provide a welcoming atmosphere and Mandarin-speaking assistants will certainly help them choose the right product. Payment systems that can handle Chinese credit cards are also an important consideration and have already been adopted by

the ranks of Harrods, the Ritz and Selfridges. Quintessentially British gifts are particularly popular choices for Chinese visitors and are something to take home as a memento of their trip.

Libby Johnson, Director of Johnsons Jewellers comments: “We believe it is vitally important to keep on top of changes to the marketplace as they happen and the emergence of china as a global superpower has been one of the biggest of all time. We have established a new chinese page on our website that accepts chinese payment and have also added a range of new brands to our collection to appeal to a host of new customers.” Xu Jing, UTWTO regional director has said about Chinese tourists, “When they travel abroad they want to bring home a lot of souvenirs for relatives and friends, so shopping remains high on the agenda.”

Jewellery is one of the top purchase items of Chinese visitors to the UK, and Chinese women are a particularly important target market as their spending power increases. Watches and jewellery display wealth, prosperity and social standing which are highly regarded attributes in Chinese culture. Hong Kong jewellery firm Chow Tai Fook is the world’s largest jewellers with over 1800 stores across China and the surrounding area. For jewellery and watch firms across the UK, utilising the ever-growing Chinese tourist market is the key to driving up their high street profits. Rolex, Cartier and Tiffany and Co are particularly popular brands for visitors and can be obtained 20-30% cheaper in the UK than China. The typical Chinese visitor to the UK spends £1600, three times the average of other tourists. Luxury brands especially benefit from this spending and many believe it is important to make our country more accessible to Chinese tourists in order to compete with other countries in the Eurozone. Regardless, in the last year Chinese spending in the UK shot up by 31 per cent and shows no signs of slowing down. China is on the move, now more than ever and luxury brands and the UK economy can only benefit from this surge.

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ThE WoRld FINGERTIPS AT YoUR

With a brave new consumer world before us, the need for global brand expertise is key to creating a sustainable future for the world’s leading organisations. With so many products, brands and individuals clamouring to be recognised the world over; establishing a positive and sustainable public perception is becoming more important than ever. Recent years have seen a gradual change in the brand sphere, with traditional advertising replaced by innovative and concept led campaigns, reacting to the trends created and perpetuated by the global consumer, a clear inversion of the market’s longstanding power relationship and a reflection of increasing levels of independent information available online and via social media. Communication channels are also largely uncensored, controlled at will by anyone who is able to harness the power and reach of social media platforms. A Twitter feed has become as influential as front page news, a YouTube video more widely watched than 2011’s Royal Wedding. The world’s largest media bodies are running to catch up, eager for a piece of the restless communications machine that is able to reach huge areas of the world’s population each and every second of the day.

But what does this mean for the world’s brands? Far from confining more traditional brand strategies to history, our high speed information interchange has allowed brand strategists the opportunity to reach more consumers than ever, targeting them in their homes, allowing them to create strong brand loyalties and develop key followers and fans that help to promote their brand with their own online recommendations.

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business and finance Branding experts Champions (UK) plc are ideally positioned at the forefront of the global brand phenomenon, working with their own clients to look at the different ways in which new and innovative communication is becoming a huge part of everyday life, sourcing the very best opportunities and providing their leading capability to ensure that they are able to position their clients at the forefront of their respective industries. As Champions (UK) plc has already recognised, perhaps one of the most startling industry changes is embodied in the increasing move to mobile communication. Both smartphones and tablets continue to grow in popularity, creating a world-wide network of users able to consume huge amounts of information throughout the day, regardless of location or situation. In essence, this has effectively provided a vast increase in the potential reach that brand messaging can have, building upon the strength of the consumer and creating an expanding group of informed brand ambassadors taking the world by storm through their Pinterest page or Tumblr account.

So influential is the empowered consumer that the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading brand experts have expanded their offering, creating entire teams and departments dedicated to positioning and reacting to online forums of information to ensure that their clients continue to be at the forefront of the consumersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; mind. Champions (UK) plc continue to build upon their own team of industry leading experts, ensuring that their market leading strategies have a strong focus on achieving tangible results from market insight and trend led campaigns, as well as generating measurable bottom line results for their clients. A great way to support and increase the impact of more traditional print or broadcast media campaigns, the online world has a truly international audience with huge numbers of target consumers providing a vital supplementary brand support on an international level and the Midlands brand agency have taken their clients to an international consumer group, allowing brands such as Heat Holders to emulate their UK success in both North America and all over the world.

For more information on the ways in which Champions (UK) plc can boost the power of your brand, please call 08453 31 30 31 or email info@championsukplc.com

CREATIVE 126

MARKETING

PUBLIC RELATIONS

Brands now need to be even more reactive to the fickle nature of consumer trends, providing products and concepts that tap into the modern consumer psyche. The global mind set is a product of the recent economic climate with the majority of consumers continuing to be price conscious, regardless of their budgets, ever more responsive to and reliant upon to the power of online forums, recommendations, blogs and videos to inform the choices they make. Champions (UK) plc continue to work at the forefront of the market to ensure that their array of clients are able to benefit from their industry leading campaigns and continue to thrive within an ever more competitive global environment. A different approach to many national and international agencies, Champions (UK) plc combine years of expertise in their five in house departments, offering a cohesive range of services that include creative, public relations, marketing, events and celebrity management teams, all working together to provide their clients with an ideal brand management package.

EVENTS

CELEBRITY

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business and finance

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Clean once, then rinse.

Directions:

1. Apply one full Depth of Shine detail clean. 2. Then simply jet wash clean your car when required to keep in top condition for the next six months 3. Order a Depth of Shine top up clean.

07989 417 710 drew@depthofshine.co.uk

DOS www.depthofshine.co.uk

TalenTed jazz band brimming wiTh sTyle and sophisTicaTion The best musicians reach the top through years of practise, hard-work and an enormous amount of passion.

Europa Jazz Band, led by saxophonist Tony Billingham are incredibly talented and experienced performers who are ideal for a wide range of events. Having played with some of the biggest artists of all time and performed for some of the biggest stars on the planet, Europa are truly world-class. Tony Billingham trained as a classical clarinettist before moving into a career in popular music, encompassing Jazz Big Band and all styles of popular music. He has shared the stage with many national and international musicians. The Band have performed on many Cruise Liners over the years where they were expected to provide all styles of Musical entertainment. Tony formed Europa Jazz Band as leader in 1980. Over the years Europa has played for Royal events, made TV and radio broadcasts and was chosen to provide the music for the opening event of the N.E.C Arena in Birmingham in 1981. The rest of the band are all brimming with talent and experience. Drummer Andy Brown spent 17 years as part of hit band ‘The Fortunes’, charting several hit songs. Keyboard player Michael Sullivan has accompanied many top artists before appearing on the BBC’s Pentecost transmission ‘Tongues of Fire’. Guitarist Roy Parry spent many years working with the legendary Ray Charles across theatres in the USA. Recently, the band has been joined by talented vocalist Suzi Woods, a singer/ songwriter who has performed for big stars including David and Victoria Beckham, and has toured around the country with Jools Holland. Available to perform at a range of events including weddings and corporate evenings, from a Duo to the full Europa Band and Suzi Woods are guaranteed to add class, experience and star quality. Their repertoire includes some of the biggest hits of all-time and though they specialise in jazz, the band are experienced playing in many different musical styles. Hugely charismatic performers, the band will provide guests with superb entertainment and have them up and dancing all night.

To find out more about Europa, contact Tony Billingham on 0121 550 1272 (mobile 07860 602475) or e-mail tony@lapalhouse.co.uk www.tonybillinghammusic.co.uk 133

business and finance

Vintage Years

In constant pursuit of excellence since 1981 Howard CHARLES Domney and Christopher MITCHELL Pacey have supplied exquisite hand crafted wines for discerning wine lovers, whatever their tastes and occasion. With 32 years as Independent Fine Wine Importers, Charles Mitchell Wines have exclusively sourced the very finest, passionately crafted wines from dedicated growers and producers from all over the world.

Providing a full range of services we specialise in: •

Award Winning Wines

•

Private Wine Tastings

•

Corporate Events/Promotions

•

Gourmet Lunch/Dinner Events

•

Wine Cellar Investment

•

Fine and Rare Vintages

•

Friendly Professional Service

•

Exclusive ‘Spiral Cellars’ Showroom

For further details of all Charles Mitchell Wines services please visit our website: www.cmwines.com

EXCLUSIVE OFFER ON ALL ORDERS FROM INSPIRATIONAL MAGAZ INE FREE BOTTLE OF GRAN D CRU CHAMPAGNE WITH EV ERY ORDER*

PLEASE QUOTE “INSP I4” when ordering

*Subject to availability and while stocks last.

For details of all of Charles Mitchell Wines’ fabulous new range of award-winning winter wines and a full listing, or to arrange a private tasting, contact Richard on: 134

Tel: 0161 775 1626 | Email: richard@cmwines.com | Web: www.cmwines.com

Howard of CMWines

Heat Holders Table

Chris of CMWines with Elaine & Malcolm Wilson OBE

Tutored Wine Tasting & Gourmet Dinner Mere Court Hotel, Cheshire

Wine Grower Louis Schroeder with Chris

26th - 27th September 2013

Wine Lovers Julie, Marna & Linda

Richard, Chris and Howard were delighted to invite their clients to the ultimate fine wine experience at the Mere Court Hotel in Cheshire. Customers old and new experienced a tutored fine wine tasting with their exclusive producers from Argentina, New Zealand and Spain, followed by a sumptuous four course dinner, with each course being accompanied by wine from their new award-winning autumn range.

Howard with Soprano, Claire Egan

The finale of each event was a truly mesmerising performance by the multi-award winning international opera soprano Claire Egan.

Cheshire Someliers Table

To see more images from this event, visit Charles Mitchell Wines’ website: www.cmwines.com To book a tasting or discuss other fantastic gourmet events contact Richard on 0161 775 1626 – email richard@cmwines.com

Hannah Domney – wine goddess

Richard of CMWines

Jane of CMWines tantilising clients

David Hewitt

Pestbury Fine Wine Circle

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Andy Cummings, Zaffa Somra, James Simons

Zaffa Somra, Tara Robinson, Sophia Hayes & Tahir Mahmood

Mr and Mrs Manda

Food Tasting and Demonstration Evening at the Kitchen Gallery 2013

Tara Robinson, Sophia Hayes, Sally Walder

Bespoke kitchen creators the Kitchen Gallery in StratfordUpon-Avon, in partnership with luxury hoteliers the Eden Hotel Collection and technological experts Bang & Olufsen, hosted a fabulous food tasting and demonstration evening.

Faz Subhani, Tara Robinson, Craig Callinghan, Nick Archer and Harry Gadsden

Each of the three leading businesses invited their top clients to the event, in a fantastic opportunity to network with other likeminded local businesses. Food was provided by Michelin-star winning chef Simon Haigh, whose exquisite dishes were bursting with fresh contemporary flavours reflecting his rigorous training in traditional French techniques, combined with a modern British flair.

Kitchen Gallery

The demonstrations were from leading international appliance creators Gaggenau, showcasing their exceptional range of products.

Faz and Wendy Subhani

The event was a huge success and everyone enjoyed a worldclass evening with fine food and great company.

To see more images from this event and to download images go to: www.inspirational.uk.com/social John Machin, Choneli Chowdhury, Carol Dee

Craig Thompson, John and Mary Stark

Andy Lehel, Tahir Mahmood, Amit Sharma

Harry Gadsen and Craig Callinghan

Chefs demonstrating

Jonathan Trott, Jim Troughton and Ian Bell MBE

Nailcote Hall and guests

Johnsons Jewellers and guests

Jim Troughton Testimonial 28th June 2013 Warwickshire captain Jim Troughton was honoured at a wonderful event at Edgbaston County Ground.

PMGC and guests

In 2011, Jim captained Warwickshire to second place in the County Championship and the following season he went on to captain the club to victory in the 2012 County Championship. His success and loyalty to Warwickshire also earned him 6 One Day International caps for England. Throughout his career, Jim was averaging a highly respectable 40 in the four day county game.

Amplify and guests

Hosting the night was the current chairman of the England Test Selectors Committee Geoff Miller and snooker great Willie Thorne who ensured that as much money as possible was raised in the charity auction for The PCA Benevolent Fund. The event concluded with entertainment from the sensational mind reader and illusionist Graham Jolley.

Robert and Libby Johnson donate gift for charity prize

The evening was organised by the Champions Club, who regularly host events across the Midlands that bring together some of the region’s leading businesses.

Jim Troughton and Ian Bell MBE

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Jonathan Trott , Sophia Hayes and Ian Bell MBE

Tahir Mahmood - Kitchen Gallery

Geoff Miller, Ian Bell MBE, Jonathan Trott and Willie Thorne

To see more images from this event and to download images go to: www.inspirational.uk.com/social

• Fine

Ashes stars Ian Bell MBE and Jonathan Trott were also in attendance and the night was a fantastic tribute to the incomparable Jim Troughton.

Richard Lambourne and guests

Graham Jolley and Jim Troughton

Artist Lynda Kettle, Dominga Devitt of the Foundation for Conductive Education, Judith Taylor Mean

Phil Brown, Andy Skinner, Angela South, Lord Whitby of Harborne

Bella the Butterfly takes flight at Asha’s 2013

Jo Malin, Judith Taylor Mean

A new children’s book which was born at the funeral wake of a well known photographer was launched at a drinks reception at Asha’s Restaurant in Newhall Street, Birmingham. The book came about when a number of former Trinity Mirror employees who had not seen each other for years met again at Tony Flanagan’s funeral and decided to collaborate on a fund raising venture for the Birmingham-based Foundation for Conductive Education. “Bella the Butterfly” was written by Judith Taylor Mean and illustrated by renowned Birmingham water colour artist Lynda Kettle who donated 25 paintings completed in just 14 days. Business development manager Dominga Devitt told guests the first print run of 1,000 had sold out and law firm DAC Beachcroft, who sponsored the event, had agreed to pay for a further 2,000 copies to be printed. Pictures by John James.

To see more images from this event and to download images go to: www.inspirational.uk.com/social

Andrew Lawton Smith, Lynda Kettle

Brendon Handley, Ernest and Pat Petrie

Dr Jenny Brindley, Ken Lloyd

Rory Daly, Jonathan Carter, Ian Mean

Guest enjoying an evening at Asha’s

Danielle O’Hara joined by friends on the front row

Natalya Wolter and Nadine Cummings

Reiss Newport and Billy Hutchinson

A/W13 Fashion Show 10th September 2013

By Marlene Birger coat, £499; Paul Smith Black jumper, £130; Escada Sport trousers, £175; Stella McCartney clutch, £625; Alaia ankle boots, £1,590

Birmingham’s most stylish store certainly confirmed its place as the region’s trend setters with its A/W13 Fashion Show. The striking Old Post Office at The Mailbox proved the perfect backdrop for statement collections from the likes of Alexander McQueen, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Jonathan Saunders, Dolce & Gabbana, Proenza Schouler and Christian Louboutin.

Carin Cartwright and Faye Cartwright

The show, in association with Professional Player Magazine, sold out in record time with nearly 600 guests, VIPs and celebrities snapping up tickets. Catwalk trends included Palette Cleanser, Gothic Tailoring, Chunky Knit, Skirt Silhouette, Mixed Print, Varsity, Boy Oh Boy and Punk Rebellion. “Our fashion shows have now, without doubt, become the most important date on the city’s style calendar and this show didn’t disappoint,” explained Richard Vickery, General Manager of Harvey Nichols.

Proenzer Schouler jumper, £495; McQ Alexander McQueen skirt, £265; Giuseppe Zanotti ankle boots, £630; Alexander McQueen metallic clutch, £485

“It was amazing to not only showcase the many fabulous collections we have for the new season but also show off the space that will house our new store in 18 months time.”

Xenia Karayiannis and Big Brother’s Jemima Slade

The models’ hair on the night was styled by Paul Jones and SHOW Beauty while makeup was created by SpaceNK and nails by Shavata. Sponsors were Aston Martin Quilter/ Cheviot Investments, Webster’s Interior Designers and Streets Accountants. There was also a charity auction, hosted by TV presenter Nick Hancock, to raise funds for Xpro and items snapped up included a signed Peter Crouch shirt and Usain Bolt’s gold medal winning spikes. Images courtesy of ANDY ESPIN To see more images from this event and to download images go to: www.inspirational.uk.com/social

Jenny Packham dress, £1,680; Jimmy Choo shoes, £550; Jimmy Choo clutch, £495

Helene McLeish, Clara McDonagh and Pat Murphy-Wright

Peter Pilotto top, £360; Peter Pilotto skirt, £595; Mulberry bag, £595

Dean Saunders, Brian Close CBE, Clayton Blackmore

Gary Wolstenholme MBE, Willie Thorne

BRITISH PAR 3 CHAMPIONSHIP Nailcote Hall, Warwickshire 6th-9th August 2013 Tony Jacklin CBE, Champion Tommy Fleetwood

Dan Walker

The 80th anniversary edition of the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship was an incredible few days of golf which saw a host of top professionals and celebrities take to the stunning Cromwell Course at Nailcote Hall. Some of the star golfers to appear at the event included Ian Woosnam OBE, Sam Torrance OBE and host, Tony Jacklin CBE. Par 3 golf is a growing discipline which provides golfers with a supreme test of control, accuracy and short game ability.

Franklyn Stephenson

The Championship also attracted some of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest celebrity names including Peter Schmeichel MBE, Matthew Hoggard MBE, Peter Shilton OBE, Willie Thorne and Jasper Carrott OBE.

Peter Schmeichel MBE

Champions (UK) plc organised the event and it was sponsored by frozen foods specialists Farmfoods. The prize fund for the event increased to a massive ÂŁ100,000, making the event the biggest par 3 tournament in Europe. As well as providing a showcase of golfing talent, there was a tented village area where visitors could enjoy a range of leisure activities like relaxing with a massage or practising their golf swing. The event was televised on Sky Sports and Challenge TV and covered extensively in the national media including The Daily Telegraph, Talk Sport, Inspirational Magazine and Golf Monthly. Tony Jacklin CBE

Dean Lovett, Kim Davenport, Jack Hayes, Ivan Knesovich, Mark Murphy

PENSIONS & WEALTH MANAGEMENT

INSPIRATIONAL PENSIONS & WEALTH MANAGEMENT

magazine

CATCH

Louisa Hayes, Robert Johnson, Peter Schmeichel MBE and team

To see more images from this event and to download images go to: www.inspirational.uk.com/social

american golf

Len Goodman, Jasper Carrot OBE

Sam Torrance OBE, Ian Woosnam OBE, Tony Jacklin CBE

Matthew Hoggard MBE and team

Steve Backley OBE and team

Ian Woosnam OBE, Sam Torrance OBE

Tony Jacklin CBE and team

Alan McInally and team

Brian Barnes and team

Crowd at the BP3

Peter Shilton OBE

Gordon Strachan, Rick Cressman

David Nelson, Tony Jacklin CBE, Eric Herd and Ian Woosnam OBE

Larry Laoretti

Sam Torrance OBE

Stand up prize bingo winner and Libby Johnson

Rebecca Edwards, Janine Edwards, Libby Johnson

Winning shooting team – PMGC

Champions Club Golf Day 5th September 2013

Hole in one – Champagne prize – Charles Mitchell Wines

The Champions Club Celebrity Golf Day saw a variety of celebrities enjoy an amazing day of golf and entertainment hosted at one of the best par 3 courses in the world, Nailcote Hall. Some of the star names that took part included former snooker world champion Dennis Taylor, rugby World Cup winner Neil Back MBE and Scottish World Cup footballer, Alan McInally.

Howard Domney and Dennis Taylor

The day began at 11.00am when guests enjoyed a lunch overlooking the beautiful Cromwell Course provided by The Red Olive Catering Company. The sun was shining and champagne flowed throughout the day courtesy of specialist fine wine specialist Charles Mitchell Wines. At 12.00pm a shotgun signalled the beginning of play. Guests were split into two teams; Team 1 enjoyed 18 holes on the scenic course while Team 2 began the Clay Pigeon shoot. After refreshments, the teams swapped over to take part in the other activity. Janine Edwards and team

Overall £3500 was raised to support Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People to help the work it does.

Richard Wallace

The Champions Club, run by specialist brand agency Champions (UK) plc, regularly organises spectacular events for its members including Champions (UK) plc, St James’s Place, Johnsons Jewellers, Kitchen Gallery, PMGC, Amplify, Charles Mitchell Wines, Nailcote Hall, The Red Olive and Inspirational Magazine.

Robert Johnson and Ian Marshall

Tahir Mahmood

To see more images from this event and to download images go to: www.inspirational.uk.com/social

Sophia Hayes

Dennis Taylor, Sophia Hayes and Sally Walder

Champions Team with Charles Mitchell Wines

Jason Yeomans, Tony Jacklin CBE

The Warwickshire Golf Club

Golf Day 4th July 2013

Neil Henderson, Tony Jacklin CBE, George Kennedy, Jason Yeomans

Tony Jacklin CBE, Great Britainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first golfing superstar, hosted this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s PMGC Technology Charity Golf Day, and was on hand to assist the competitors, refining some of their more unconventional techniques.

Anthony Brown, Willie Thorne, Greig Taylor, Paul Leece

Either side of the 18 holes, guests were treated to breakfast and a BBQ with drinks. The golf itself was a great success, with a friendly competition offering prizes for Best Individual, Best Team, Longest Drive, Nearest the Pin, and the one everyone wanted to avoid, The Wooden Spoon! Afterwards, Tony Jacklin performed a Q&A session in which everyone was given the chance to ask Tony questions about any golfing queries that had arisen through the day, as well as his past experiences in the Ryder Cup and winning two majors. Benjamin Turner and Willie Thorne

CEO of PMGC Jason Yeomans presented Tony with an iPhone to make sure he is up-to-date with all the latest technology that works at the fastest speeds.

Willie Thorne, Tony Jacklin CBE

The evening concluded with the prize giving and a raffle, which contributed to the overall donation to our chosen charities, Great Ormond Street Hospital and Me Too & CO, a local charity for children with additional needs, their parents, carers and siblings.

Jason Yeaomans, Astrid Jacklin, Laura, George Kennedy, Neil Henderson

Matt Jolley, Richard Stilgoe, Chris Mumford, Paul Needle

To see more images from this event and to download images go to: www.inspirational.uk.com/social

Tila Khan, Nadim Khan, Mahendra Mistry, Mazareth Hussain

Ready for tee off!

Willie Thorne and Greig Taylor

Virgin Trains table

Inspirational table

Graham and Sarah Bell

Clayton Blackmore and Craig Phillips

Geoff Miller

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