Inspirational Magazine Spring/Summer 2014 Edition 5 by Champions (UK) plc

JENNIFER LOPEZ: THE ROAD TO SUPERSTARDOM 10 YEARS OF SOCIAL MEDIA: HOW COMMUNICATION HAS CHANGED CHAMPIONS (UK) PLC: BREATHING NEW LIFE INTO BRANDS

INSPIRATIONAL magazine SPRING/SUMMER 2014

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

LIVE YOUR

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

Vintage Rally FROM £ 2290 Tribute to Healey and classic car rallies worldwide. The roar of a finely-tuned engine. Automatic Chronograph, instantly readable in ergonomic case.

www.frederique-constant.com

“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

NAVITIMER

Editor in Chief Matthew Hayes Advertising Manager Sophia Hayes Production Manager Alexandra Buist Features Editor Victoria Marconetto

letter from the

EDITOR

Advertising Editor Amelia Benskin Features Writers Christopher Brookes Richard Padmore William Smith Megan Smith Elyssa Fagan Francesca Bonfiglio Stephanie Bird Designers Maddie Smith Kristian Goodeve Jamie Traynor Liam Creek Ewen Lewis Jodie Barker Photography Kristian Goodeve Antonia Doyle Maddie Smith Web Development David Evans Michael Pattinson

Contributors Libby Johnson Robert Johnson Sally Walder Jason Yeomans Gillian Wesley Tarah Hewitt

Richard Vickery Janine Edwards Tara Robinson Jo Brain Charlotte Conway Anna Wells

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 Published By

Welcome to another edition of Inspirational Magazine. It gives me great pleasure, as always, to bring you our latest issue packed with a huge variety of fantastic features, our exclusive summer gift guide and details of the West Midlands’ most exciting social events. The Inspirational team has worked as hard as ever to bring you the very best that our region has to offer and we have discovered more fantastic food and drink, the finest hotels and first-class events venues. On our cover is one of the world’s shining stars, Jennifer Lopez. Her incredible range of talents have kept her in the spotlight for over two decades and she is a true global icon. We chart her rise to fame and what the future holds for the superstar. Our summer wedding guide showcases the very best venues, photographers, honeymoon destinations and planning ideas to help you make the most of your special day. With many things to celebrate this summer, we also look to some of the season’s most exciting events. The Farmfoods British Par 3 will soon be here, bringing with it host Tony Jacklin CBE and an array of Ryder Cup legends and we look forward to welcoming cricketer Sir Garfield Sobers back to our shores for his exclusive nationwide tour. Arguably the greatest all-rounder of all time, Sir Garfield’s illustrious career has been covered in detail in this edition; he really is a sporting icon and we wish him the best for the summer season. We have also previewed the summer’s biggest sporting event, the FIFA World Cup in Brazil. We spoke to a three-time competitor and the most capped England player of all-time, Peter Shilton OBE to get some exclusive insights into competing in a tournament that captures the imagination of fans around the globe. As ever, we have been visiting some of the region’s very best restaurants to bring you our fine dining guide. With an international mix of culinary flavours and styles, the West Midlands continues to fly the flag for some of the country’s very best food and hospitality. Our business and finance section is, once again, filled with some of the region’s most influential companies. We share our insight into the power of social media for the corporate world and we bring you advice on the housing market, your future financial security and the importance of the right legal advice. Our social pages cover some of the region’s most exciting events and we are sure that you will enjoy browsing the fantastic images and discovering more about the many successful charity fundraising events. As always, our online presence continues to expand - 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 to ensure you are kept up to date with the latest news and updates from the West Midlands and beyond. I hope you enjoy our latest edition and from all the team at Inspirational magazine, we wish you a happy, healthy and prosperous summer 2014!

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

Editor in Chief

www.championsukplc.com

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 6 of the publisher or indeed Inspirational Magazine or any featured parties.

“History will be kind to me for I intend to write it.” Winston Churchill

Elegance is an attitude

lers Since 18 97 Je

â&#x20AC;˘ Fine

Simon Baker

Conquest Classic

lers Since

BeoLab 18, BeoLab 19 and BeoVision 11 television

32 Bang & Olufsen of Leamington Spa makes some noise for its pioneering new sound Bang & Olufsen of Leamington Spa is celebrating the arrival of a new dimension in wireless sound that will revolutionise the listening experience of the region’s audiophiles. The long-established retailer has recently welcomed Bang & Olufsen’s new Immaculate Wireless Sound to its Regent Street showroom. Debuting in the distinctive new BeoLab 17 and BeoLab 18 loudspeakers and stylish BeoLab 19 subwoofer, BeoLab 19

Immaculate Wireless Sound enables Bang & Olufsen products to go wireless without compromising the famed Bang & Olufsen quality or design. So impressive are the new products that they are the first in the world to meet the new WiSA (The Wireless Speaker and Audio Association) standard of wireless sound. The ease with which the loudspeakers can be moved around offers users increased flexibility in their home’s BeoLab 17

122

decoration and, because cabling is minimised, it also means that installation complexity and costs are less. Steve Wilkes, Project Manager of Bang & Olufsen of Leamington Spa, believes that Immaculate Wireless Sound will clean up in every sense. “With its crystal-clear noise reproduction through an impeccable, reliable connection, Immaculate Wireless Sound is certain to be popular, but the technology also allows customers to reduce cable clutter in their home and make the most of their available space. “For added convenience Immaculate Wireless Sound gives users the freedom to mix wireless and wired speakers, easily add more speakers to a system and offers compatibility with other thirdparty WiSA certified products, including many AV receivers, televisions, Blu-ray players and set-top boxes.” Steve continued: “It’s remarkable how seamlessly it works and I invite anyone who’s interested in hearing Immaculate Wireless Sound to call into our showroom when they’re passing.”

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN

Jennifer Lopez ................................. 10

Rybrook .......................................... 58

Femi Health and Beauty ................. 78

The road to superstardom

Wedding Guide ............................... 20 Plan your special day and ensure every detail is perfect

Royal Westmoreland........................ 26 Own a piece of paradise

Harvey Nichols’ must-haves ............ 32 A hand-picked selection of stunning gifts

Stapleford Park ............................... 44 The perfect luxury hotel and English sporting country estate

Hyatt Regency ................................ 49 Inspirational Magazine visits one of the Midlands’ premier hotels

Rugby legend Neil Back MBE testdrives the Rolls-Royce Wraith

Rolex Daytona ................................ 62 The history of one of the world’s most iconic timepieces

FIFA World Cup .............................. 64 The making of legends – the World Cup heads for Brazil

Sir Garfield Sobers .......................... 68 The legendary all-rounder returns to the UK

The Tony Jacklin CBE Wentworth Invitational..................................... 72 Golfing royalty at one of the country’s most iconic courses

Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship ................................ 74 First-class golf, incredible stars, unbeatable entertainment – the BP3 gears up for its best year yet

Bringing luxury to the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship

Log Cabin Company ....................... 82 Summer dreaming - Bespoke, quality outside buildings

Marti 1921 ..................................... 86 Pioneering bathroom designs

Bang and Olufsen........................... 88 Combining technological excellence with emotional appeal

GREAT MUSIC DESERVES BANG & OLUFSEN BEOLAB 18

128

EXPERIENCE IN STORE NOW

Bang & Olufsen introduces a new range of wireless speakers featuring: • astounding acoustic performance • uncompromising design and craftsmanship • technical innovation

Audition the new wireless speakers at our store and prepare to be amazed. Bang & Olufsen of Leamington Spa 78 Regent Street, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire CV32 4NS Tel: 01926 881500 Email: leamingtonspa@bang-olufsen.co.uk Web: www.bang-olufsen.com/leamingtonspa

FINE DINING GUIDE

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

SOCIAL AND NETWORKING

Jean-Christophe Novelli .................. 92

Champions Club ........................... 104

Socialising.................................... 137

Asha’s ............................................. 93 Cielo............................................... 94 Edmunds ........................................ 95 Red Peppers/Simpsons/Pinnells........ 96 The Stag at Offchurch/The Moorings at Myton/The Forest at Feckenham ...... 97 Audley Restaurant .......................... 98 Finest Catch ................................... 99 Mailbox Restaurants ..................... 100

The West Midlands’ premier business network

Ashas

Adelphi ......................................... 106 Risk management specialists and Neil Back MBE

Champions (UK) plc ..................... 108 Breathing new life into brands for over a decade

St James’s Place ........................... 114 Experts in wealth management

Masquerade Ball Harvey Nichols Fashion Show Teenage Cancer Trust Benefit Charles Mitchell Wines Bollywood New Manor Hall MK Life Launch

Edgbaston .................................... 124 The county’s leading events venue

10 Years of Social Media ............... 128

A big anniversary for the social media platforms that changed how we communicate forever

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

JENNIFER LOPEZ

Actress, recording artist, dancer, producer, entrepreneur, philanthropist; Jennifer Lopez has many talents but her place as an inspirational global icon is undisputed. Despite having spent over two decades in the spotlight, she is still one of the most talked-about celebrities on the planet. Inspirational Magazine looks at J Loâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s story so far and whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s next for the multitalented star.

Jennifer Lopez poses on the red carpet as she arrives for the premiere of the movie â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bordertownâ&#x20AC;? Jennifer Lopez on Hollywood Blvd where she was honored with the 2,500th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. June 20, 2013 Los Angeles, CA. Featureflash / Shutterstock.com

JLOVE Jennifer Lopez’s story begins in the deprived New York borough The Bronx, where she was born to a relatively poor family. In an area with few aspirations, Lopez dreamt of becoming a star and at the tender age of five began taking singing and dancing lessons. Her parents encouraged her from a young age, stressing the importance of learning English and instilling a strong work ethic that she would carry with her throughout her life.

With passion and determination, Lopez began establishing herself as an actress, making her debut in My Little Girl before appearing in a string of regional musicals. While pursuing a career as a dancer, she gradually began to build her profile in films throughout the mid-1990’s. Her breakthrough starring role came in the 1997 film Selena based on the life of the popular American singer-songwriter who was murdered by the president of her fan club at the age of 23. Nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Actress and praised as “a star-making performance”, Lopez endeared herself to the public and critics alike. Her portrayal of Selena inspired countless young Latin performers who looked to follow in her footsteps.

“...when you’re given the.... opportunities to be more creative, to create things ... more from the ground up... empowering a community, that means so much to me.”

Lopez has gone on to star alongside some of the most famous actors of our time including George Clooney, Sean Penn, Billy Bob Thornton and Jack Nicholson. Specialising in romantic comedies, she has become one of the most commercially successful actresses in history and the highestpaid Latin actress in the world, with a cumulative film gross of over $2 billion. While countless movie stars have tried to forge a career in music or vice versa, few have enjoyed the same monumental success as Jennifer Lopez. Before embarking on her music career, many critics believed she was taking a considerable risk; not only could she fail, she could also damage her existing career. Refusing to allow this to deter her, she surprised everyone with the release of her debut single ‘If You Had My Love’ which immediately topped the Billboard Hot 100.

After the release of her debut album, Lopez proved to critics that she had achieved both a successful movie career and pop stardom. She found a way of separating her two personas by changing her stage name to J Lo, a name affectionately given to her by her fans. She cemented her new dual career in 2001 with the release of her second album J Lo and new film The Wedding Planner, becoming the first artist to have a film and album at number one simultaneously. Musically, she has been unafraid to experiment with a variety of styles including latin pop, dance, R&B, hip hop, rock, funk, house and salsa, fusing influences ranging from Michael Jackson to Madonna. Now on the verge of releasing her eighth studio album, Lopez has a far-reaching appeal that crosses generations, with countless modern artists listing her as one of their biggest inspirations. Despite becoming one of the biggest stars on the planet, Lopez has refused to forget her roots. Her debut album, On the 6 was named after the local train she used to take back in The Bronx and one of her signature hits, ‘Jenny From the Block’ celebrates her background and upbringing. Lopez has always been proud of her Latin identity and has been celebrated as one of the driving forces behind breaking racial boundaries in the entertainment business. She has said: “Singing and acting and dancing and performing live, it’s always going to be my passion, but at the end of the day, when you’re given the opportunities to be more creative, to create things more from the ground up… empowering a community, that means so much to me.” One of the most talked about stars on the planet, Lopez has been a feature of the international press for years. While every detail of her private life has been reported on and covered in detail, J Lo has used this to her advantage to successfully build and maintain one of the most successful brands in the world; herself. Her intelligence in establishing her own personal brand has seen her appear across a range of industries, from cosmetics to automobiles.

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

A dedicated philanthropist, Lopez dedicated her fourth studio album to Paige Patterson, an eleven-year old cancer patient she had become close to through working with Children’s Hospital Los Angeles in 2004.

According to Jeetendr Sehdev, celebrity branding expert and author of ‘Superstar: The Art & Science of Celebrity Branding’, the secret of her success ‘lies in tailoring her brand offering to appeal to both young and old, guys and girls alike.’ The J Lo brand embodies a range of admirable qualities: pride in her background, dedication and determination to succeed as well as a love of what she does. A dedicated philanthropist, Lopez dedicated her fourth studio album to Paige Patterson, an eleven-year old cancer patient she had become close to through working with Children’s Hospital Los Angeles in 2004. Lopez commits herself to supporting charities and communityled schemes wherever possible. She believes in the importance of giving back and using her success to promote the causes that she feels passionately about. More recently, she has appeared as a judge on the hugely popular US TV show, American Idol for three series, earning a reported salary of $17.5 million for one of the series.

With expertise gained from years of experience in the music business and boundless charisma, J Lo is one of the most popular personalities the show has ever seen. 2013 also saw her achieve the incredible honour of receiving her own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Never one to stay still, J Lo continues to dedicate herself to each new project with a passion that is undimmed despite so many years in the spotlight. Few performers have achieved close to the level of success and far-reaching appeal of Jennifer Lopez. With a new album due for release in 2014, a starring role in 2015 thriller The Boy Next Door, and a reported autobiography due for release, Lopez proves once again just how versatile she really is.

Images, clockwise from top left; J Lo, at the O2 World Arena in Berlin, Germany on October 13, 2012; Pharrell Williams, Bernie Ecclestone, Jennifer Lopez and her (then) husband Marc Anthony are seen in the paddock during the Monaco Formula One Grand Prix, 2010 Jennifer Lopez arrives at Maritim Hotel for the Unesco Charity Gala 2012 in Duesseldorf, on October 27, 2012. Jennifer Lopez at the press conference for Jennifer Lopez & Marc Anthony / KOHL’S Lifestyle Brand Launch at The London Hollywood on November 18, 2010 in W. Hollywood, CA. Helga Esteb / Shutterstock.com Jennifer Lopez is awarded with the “Artists for Amnesty award”, for her part as actress and producer in the movie “Bordertown”.;

THE LADIES CHOICE

.1 1: Omega Deville Ladymatic Coaxial 425.30.34.20.55.001 £5390 .2 2: Raymond Weil Jasmine Diamond Set Watch 5229-S5S-00659 £1995 .33: Rado Integral Jubile MOP Diamond Set Watch R20.747.90.1 £1660 .44: Tag Heuer Formula 1 Ladies Ceramic Watch WAH1312.BA0867 £2150 .5 5: Tissot Ladies T-Evocation T051.310.11.116.00 £295 .6 6: Citizen Ladies Stilleto Eco Drive EG3060-52D £399 .7 7: Swarovski Piazza Crystal Mesh Bracelet 1000668 £395 .88: DKNY Ladies Ceramic and Stone Set Watch NY8672 £279

Prices correct at the time of printing March 2014

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

.1 • BREITLING Transocean Chronograph with an 18ct Bezel, Leather strap UB015212: £6580 .2 • HUGO BOSS Stainless Steel Silver Chronograph Dial, Leather strap 1512447: £259 .3 • LONGINES Stainless Steel Conquest Automatic, Blue Dial, Bracelet L36874996: £1000 .4• Stainless Steel OMEGA Seamaster Aqua Terra Day- Date, Silver and Rose baton dial, steel bracelet 23110422202001: £5050 .5 • Steel and black ceramic RADO Centrix, Black Dial, Bracelet R30.934.71.2: £1030 .6 • Stainless Steel RAYMOND WEIL Chronograph, Black Dial , Leather strap 4891-STC000200: £895 .7 • TAG HEUER Aquaracer stainless steel watch, blue dial, bracelet WAP1112. BA0831: £1250 .8 • TISSOT T- Touch matt stainless steel case, black multi- function dial, Orange Rubber strap T0134201720700: £555

Prices correct at the time of printing March 2014

The Dorchester LONDON

The Beverly Hills Hotel Coworth Park 45 Park Lane LONDON BEVERLY HILLS ASCOT

Le Meurice Le Meurice PARIS PARIS

Hôtel Plaza Plaza Athénée Athénée Hôtel PARIS PARIS

Hotel di Savoia LePrincipe Richemond MILANA GENEV

HoteldiBel-Air Hotel Principe Savoia LOS ANGELES MILAN

Coworth Hotel EdenPark ASCOT ROME

45 ParkHills LaneHotel The Beverly LONDON BEVERLY HILLS

LeHotel Richemond Bel-Air GENEVA LOS ANGELES

Wedding Guide Getting married is one of the most significant and exciting days of your life. By formalising your commitment to each other, you are making a solemn vow to spend the rest of your lives together. Making that initial decision brings great excitement, yet the fantasy is so often overcome when the reality of planning kicks in.

Inspirational Magazine is here to help. We have handpicked a beautiful selection of luxury products and bespoke services especially for you. Our guide aims to give you a number of special ideas to help make your big day as stress-free as possible.

Choosing the ideal venue, somewhere that will forever have a special place in your heart, is often the best starting point. It becomes the backdrop to all of your photos and sets the stage for a glorious day and a magical evening.

Stapleford Park makes the dream setting for your wedding. Sited in a quintessentially English country estate in the heart of Leicestershire, it is one of the most romantic hotels in the land and somewhat redolent of a classical French chateau. As an alternative you might browse the Eden Hotel Collection, a select portfolio of fine country hotels across the west and southwest of England. Employing a professional make-up artist is almost an imperative nowadays as is the use of a professional hair stylist. Richard Wallace Hair offers a no obligation bridal consultation to discuss ideas and to ensure your hair frames your face in mesmeric fashion, plus their team will travel to your location on the day to perfect your look.

Finally, when planning that dream honeymoon, the Barbados Royal Westmoreland is an exceptional Caribbean hideaway, nestled in lush, landscaped grounds with an exclusive five star golf, beach and spa resort. Resident on the island is BarbadosBarbados, a husband and wife team offering you a flexible and personal approach. Another option is Mahi Mahi, a luxury holiday resort on the beautiful island of Tobago with the beach literally on your doorstep.

Once you have settled back in to your normal life, your wedding photographs can take you back to experience the day all over again. Antonia Doyle Photography specialises in a more relaxed style and takes time to draw out the architectural character of the surroundings. She documents the real story of your day without the need for endless posing and that way you can get on with the festivities unencumbered . . . and ultimately, that is what you are both there to do.

We hope our wedding section leads you to some inspired choices and that your special day is unforgettable, just as you always dreamt it!

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. Antoniaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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: â&#x20AC;&#x153;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.â&#x20AC;? - 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 memorable photography, whatever the occasion. www.antoniadoylephotography.com

GEORGIAN WEDDING IDYLL IN WARWICKSHIRE In the heart of England, set amid the picturesque village of Meriden, the 4 star Best Western Plus Manor Hotel embodies the charm and elegance of the Georgian period. Dating back to 1745 the manor house brings to the fore all the romance of a wedding with its sparkling chandeliers, manicured lawns and its sweeping spiral staircase. As home to one of the area’s most famous inhabitants, Lady Godiva, the village, originally known as ‘Alspath’, has an even deeper historical pedigree. Back in the 11th century, Lady Godiva wanted her husband, Leofric, an Anglo-Saxon nobleman, to lower the taxes on his tenants. He challenged her to ride naked through the streets of Coventry to win his acquiescence and subsequently a legend was born. Fully licenced to carry out civil services and with years of successful experience, the privately owned Manor Hotel is perfectly appointed for the most important day of your life. With four plush and elegant ceremony and reception rooms, wedding breakfasts for up to 200 people are catered for with ease. The venue comfortably accommodates 275 for evening receptions, and boasting 112 stylish bedrooms many of your guests will benefit from special overnight accommodation rates.

With all weddings, the devil is in the detail. From the planning stages onward, a dedicated Wedding Executive is there to help and advise you on your myriad of options. They can roll out a red carpet on your arrival or have it placed smartly along the ceremonial aisle, and should you wish them to, the Event Manager will even act as ‘master of ceremonies’ over the course of your day. It really is down to you. The experienced staff are committed to wish fulfilment. As bride and groom you are invited to a menu tasting so you can choose from the 2 AA Rosette winning food and drink, and the special treatment does not end there.. In the 12 weeks leading up to the big day, you can also enjoy complimentary leisure membership at the sister hotel, Best Western Plus Windmill Village Hotel. Every wedding package includes an executive bedroom for the bride and groom, complete with a full English breakfast and complimentary champagne and chocolates in the suite. As a special touch, on your first anniversary you can revisit the Manor, dine as a couple, take a room for the night and enjoy a leisurely full English breakfast, all at the hotel’s expense.

The Manor Hotel prides itself on the personal nature of its wedding service and their flexibility and attention to detail make them the perfect venue for the perfect day. For more information on inclusive wedding packages (starting from £2550) at Best Western Plus Manor Hotel Meriden visit www.manorhotelmeriden.co.uk Best Western Plus Manor Hotel Main Road, Meriden, Solihull, West Midlands, CV7 7NH Tel: 01676 522735 Fax: 01676 522186 www.manorhotelmeriden.co.uk

VINTAGE COLLECTION

“I never worry about diets... ...the only carrots that interest me.. are the number you get in a diamond.”

Mae West

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:

A spectacular blend of modern contemporary and medieval décor, New Hall Hotel & Spa is a truly unique hotel in the heart of the country. Set within 26 acres of elegant grounds, this 4 AA star hotel offers unique hospitality together with warm friendly service. A hidden gem in Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham, New Hall Hotel & Spa is an ideal retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

At over 800 years old, the hotel is reputedly the oldest inhabited moated manor house in England. The building has been sympathetically renovated, retaining much of its medieval charm and character whilst providing up-to-the-minute facilities. Fine wine and relaxed dining are central to New Hall Hotel, with a range of options available. The Bridge Restaurant provides a unique dining experience serving British cuisine made using the very finest ingredients. Awarded two AA Rosettes, the restaurant welcomes guests and non-residents alike and offers a delicious

seasonal menu served in spectacular surroundings. Maître d’, Hubert Laforge ensures guests have a superb dining experience and excellent service is at the forefront of each diner’s experience.

facials, reviving wraps and relaxing massages. A spa break is the ideal way to combine the indulgent relaxation and wellbeing of the spa with the elegance of the hotel and restaurants.

For a more exclusive experience, private dining options are available to host the perfect party. The Terrence Brasserie is another popular choice and offers a tempting range of home cooked favourites and a friendly welcome that characterises New Hall.

For an incredible dream wedding, New Hall Hotel is the ideal venue. From initial planning to final preparations, the dedicated team are vastly experienced and are on hand to help you plan every aspect of your big day.

As well as picturesque surroundings, New Hall Spa offers a stunning array of treatments including luxury

Whether you are looking for a short romantic break or lavish celebration, New Hall Hotel & Spa is the perfect choice.

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 27

OUR BARBADOS Presenting an extensive range of holiday rental properties in all price ranges, with personalised on-island service. We live here and we know Barbados. Choose from well-appointed apartments and beachfront villas to luxurious penthouses and world-class private estates. Some are fully staffed and all well equipped with everything required for a relaxing and truly enjoyable stay.

Daily commute

NOW OFFERING DISCOUNTED SUMMER RATES 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, scuba dive or visit the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

S ’ N I L L MU L L I R G BAR &

In the summer of 2013, new proprietors Rory Rodger and Jason Hyndman took Mullins Beach Bar & Grill back to its roots. Once known as the archetypal, laid back Barbadian beach bar, the venue needed a breath of fresh air until Rory and Jason made it their mission to revisit its founding principles. The pair brought back the free and easy atmosphere that characterised the legendary bar’s earliest incarnation and then set about raising the bar. With the warmth of the day tempered by a cool Caribbean Sea breeze, Mullins Beach Bar is now the perfect place to kick back and relax. Bringing with them over a decade’s experience running Barbados’ premier restaurant, The Lone Star, Rory and Jason cooked up a menu to match the mood. Cooked from fresh, straight through from 11.00am to 7.00pm each day, traditional West Indian influences and Creole themes run throughout and there is an incredible variety of seafood, fish, chicken and steak to be had from the grill. The handmade burgers and hand-cut chips are prepared with the same care and attention you will find in the service and there is forever an old favourite popping up on the specials blackboard. Of course, things hot up at the weekends. DJ Eddie the Salsa Man gets Saturday nights rocking and on Sundays, Mootown, a local band, covers everything from the blues to psychedelic dub and reggae. If that is not enough of a step back in time, take a look at your bill: even the prices are retro!

Mullins Bay, St. Peter, Barbados, W.I. Tel: +1 246-422-2044

the ultimate bikini body For many of us the holiday countdown has already begun. Planning and booking the holiday, well, that is the easy bit! Preparing your body and mind to be ‘bikini ready’ is where the real work begins!

skin treatment HydraFacial

Here at MediZen we like to do the hard work for you. From our highly effective array of medically-led, noninvasive cosmetic treatments we have devised the ultimate holiday ‘bikini prep’ checklist.

Cleansing and exfoliation Acid Peel Extractions Serum application The HydraFacial is ideal for all skin types and targets hyperpigmentation, oily/congested pores, ﬁne lines, and wrinkles

excess fat

Tailored to your individual needs these amazing solutions will give you the conﬁdence to bare all this summer and fully relax on that well deserved holiday!

benefits

Cooltech Cryolipolisis

Strong, healthy, radiant skin Blemish/line/wrinkle reduction Medically proven skin health

Line and Wrinkle Reduction Age Spot and Thread Vein Treatments Treatment for Aged, Dull Complexions Laser Hair Removal Tattoo Removal Fat Reduction and Cellulite Treatments

Call us for your free, no-obligation consultation on:

0121 667 8940

Medically proven non invasive, comfortable, fat freezing technology. Ideal for relatively healthy people with concerns such as love handles, mufﬁn tops, bingo wings & wobbly thighs.

benefits

MediZen MediZen is a doctor led aesthetic clinic and 5 year ﬁnalist of the Best UK Aesthetic Clinic of the Year Awards offering a wide range of non-invasive cosmetic treatments

treatment

hair removal treatment Laser Hair Removal Regarded as the safest and most successful type of hair removal for the face and body. Treatable areas include legs, arms, underarms and bikini line.

Eliminates stubborn pockets of fat cooling pockets of fat for just one hour results in a gradual reduction in the fat cells in the treated area by up to 20% over just a 3 month period. Results should be permanent in the area treated as long as your body weight remains stable.

benefits Whilst a full course of sessions will be needed for overall hair removal and signiﬁcant reduction of growth, it won’t be long before you’ll notice the difference made by just one treatment. Many people are under the impression that a course of laser hair removal is the expensive option when in actual fact, Laser Hair Removal is CHEAPER than Shaving or Waxing

special offer Book a Cooltech treatment with us at MediZen, and get a Hydrafacial luxury skin rejuvenation treatment FREE of charge.

MediZen, Suite A, 282 Lichfield Road, Mere Green, Sutton Coldfield B74 2UG // www.medizen.co.uk

Complimentary parking. When you shop, dine or get pampered.

Dine at C么te Brasserie, Harvey Nichols Espresso Caf茅, Strada and Malmaison Brasserie, visit Toni & Guy Essensuals or shop at Harvey Nichols to enjoy 2 hours complimentary parking at The Mailbox. Terms and conditions apply. Please visit the website for full details.

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

Lovelyuijkkjoin Lace As feminine as it gets, lace not only dominated the SS14 catwalks but was also the most tweeted term at London Fashion Week.

LISA PIDDINGTON, FROM HARVEY NICHOLS BIRMINGHAM, suggests the pieces that should be gracing our wardrobes this season.

Lace features in the SS14 collection from Markus Lupfer

Burberry Prorsum opted for tailored pieces in the softest of pastels; Chloe went for laser-cut; and Christopher Bailey showcased an ultra elegant collection of ladylike dresses and pencil skirts teamed with cashmere cardigans. For an edgier look, Tom Ford and Dolce & Gabbana were inspired by the dark side with gothic spider web embroidery and dramatic black lace.

Alexander McQueen Lace Clutch £325

Alice and Olivia Dress £430

Gianvito Rossi Lace Pumps £565

McQ Alexander McQueen Lace Print Dress £265

Sophia Webster Patent Sling-back Pumps £295

Philip Armstrong Lace Panelled Dress £785

Alice and Olivia Tulle Top £265

Alice by Temperley Lace Weave Dress £295

McQ Alexander McQueen Lace Logo Sweatshirt £145

All items featured are available from Harvey Nichols Birmingham. 33

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

Laura Mercier

NARS

Mineral Cheek Colour in Pink Spark

Duo Eye Shadow in Bouthan

£18.50

£25

Sophie Hulme Envelope Clutch

£460

Red Valentino Crepe Dress

£460

BIRMINGHAM

IN PINK Giuseppe Zanotti Peep-toe Suede Platform Pumps

£475

Rosebud Perfume Company EOS Lip Balm

£7.50

All items featured are available from Harvey Nichols Birmingham.

Red Valentino Lace Trimmed Jumper

£270

Mulberry Bayswater

PRETTY £1,100

Alice by Temperley Brushed Silk Dress

£445

Pink remains firmly on the fashion agenda for S/S14, but the candy floss hues of previous seasons make way for more intense rosy tints. Burberry Prorsum, Elie Saab, Temperley London, Miu Miu and Chanel showcased this most girly palette, turning it into a statement shade. HARVEY NICHOLS BIRMINGHAM reveals its most feminine must-haves.

Benefit

Deborah Lippman

Posie Tint

Nail Lacquer in Daytripper

£24.50

£16

Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb EDO

£68

All items featured are available from Harvey Nichols Birmingham.

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

Giuseppe Zanotti Studded Hi-tops

Givenchy

£600

Print Cotton Shirt

£270

McQ Alexander McQueen Print Tank Top

£100

BIRMINGHAM

& SEEK

Moncler Camo-timmed Shell Jacket

£715

Paul Smith Accessories Brian Lichtenberg Homies

Print Wallet

Knitted Hat

£145

£40 36

All items featured are available from Harvey Nichols Birmingham.

Tom Ford Aviator Sunglasses

£233

Cote & Ciel Laptop Case

£45

MCM

Sons of Heroes

Studded Leather Backpack

T-shirt

£600

£70

HIDE Far from allowing you to blend into the crowd, the new camouflage prints will promise you don’t go unnoticed. We asked HARVEY NICHOLS BIRMINGHAM to pick it’s favourite utilitarian pieces for the new season.

Alejandro Ingelmo Hi-tops

£560

DSquared2 Print Shell Jacket

£555

All items featured are available from Harvey Nichols Birmingham.

New Collection Available Now

www.nichebags.com

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

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 believe 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.

A Culinary Journey from Fork to Fork Food is at the centre of everything we do and we are well known for our delicious cuisine. Our award-winning chefs like to keep things new and exciting, using the finest ingredients in their kitchens. They constantly move with the times, embracing the latest ideas and techniques, innovating all the time. We keep true to our philosophy of ‘fork to fork’, using our well stocked kitchen gardens, orchards and beehives to provide the freshest ingredients throughout the seasons. You won’t find strawberries in winter here; our chefs follow the seasons with their ingredients and their hearts with their cooking. Each dish is a result of their incredible passion and enthusiasm for food which results in fabulous dishes for all to enjoy.

Eden News Eden Hotel Collection acquired Tides Reach in Salcombe in January 2014 from the Edwards family, who have owned the hotel for 47 years. The hotel will remain closed while an extensive redevelopment takes place to create a 50 bedroom property on the existing plot. The new waterfront hotel, complete with spa, private beach and an extensive terrace with sea views, will offer high quality and contemporary dining and luxury stays on this beautiful section of British coastline. Eden Hotel Collection’s Managing Director Mark Chambers said “We are delighted to expand further into the South West, where our parent company, The Rigby Group plc, already has strong business links through its ownership of Exeter Airport and British International Helicopters. Tides Reach will add to our existing luxury hotels in Somerset and Kingsbridge, establishing a firm presence for Eden Hotel Collection in the region. The new Tides Reach is an exciting development and we very much look forward to being part of the Salcombe community.”

Weddings with Eden

Exciting appointment of Chef Paul Foster at Mallory Court

We help you make memories that last a lifetime. Fill our hotels with your style, personality and dreams of a perfect day and we’ll take care of the details. Vintage inspired, elegant and traditional, country chic or cool and contemporary; our hotels wear it all well. Need a little help?

A former Coventry schoolboy who went on to become a multi-award-winning chef is returning to his home county to take the helm at one of the region’s most celebrated restaurants. Paul Foster has worked in some of the world’s finest kitchens and been appointed as Head Chef of The Dining Room at the AA red star Mallory Court.

Our wedding planners and their teams know how to plan the perfect celebration down to the last canapé and cupcake. You won’t want to change a thing except to enjoy it all again.

Paul’s career has included periods at Raymond Blanc’s two-Michelin starred Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons in Oxford –an experience he says, “…helped shape me into the chef I am today.”

Relax & Unwind with Eden at the Greenway Hotel & Spa or Mount Somerset Hotel & Spa

In 2006, Paul won the coveted William Heptinstall award, which led to internships at the groundbreaking WD50 in New York, The French Laundry in Napa Valley, and L’Auberge de L’Ile in Lyon. But it was getting the chance to work at two-Michelin Restaurant Sat Bains in Nottingham in 2008 that proved to be the highlight of his career. Paul states that “Mallory Court is the ideal place for me to grow as a chef and mature and I’m excited about carrying on with the amazing things that Simon Haigh has achieved here.”

Our spas are a heavenly blend of decadent products, tranquil treatment rooms and soothing hydrotherapy pools. There’s more than salad leaves on our menus and a glass of Champagne is positively encouraged! We’ve got it all, from state of the art fitness suites to Champagne nail bars, retail boutiques to al fresco hot tubs. Our spas are an oasis of relaxation and luxury; places to sooth the soul, indulge the senses and revitalise the body. Treatments include the Crystal Clear Micro Lifting Facial which gently tightens and tones the face and neck muscles while smoothing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, firming and redefining facial contours. When combined with a preparation treatment such as Crystal Clear Microdermabrasion, the results achieved are dramatically improved leaving the skin not only lifted but extremely smooth. For a longer lasting look the treatment can be used as part of an intensive course or as a quick ‘pick me up’ facial.

M al;l ory C ourt W ar w ickshire

Bro

c k en c ote H al l H ote

W or cestershire

£150 per couple

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Upgrade subject to availability Terms and Conditions apply *subject to availability, cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer, offer expires 30th November 2014

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Mallory Court Hotel, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire The Mount Somerset Hotel and Spa, Somerset Buckland-Tout-Saints, Kingsbridge Devon The Kings Hotel, Cotswolds The Arden Hotel, Stratford-upon-Avon The Greenway Hotel and Spa , Cheltenham Brockencote Hall Hotel, Worcestershire uc kl Tides Reach, Salcombe, Devon an

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www.edenhotelcollection.com 41

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND & LIFESTYLE 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 breaks new ground in the West Midlands. Using a blend of cutting edge technology , clinical expertise, and a uniquely broad array of services, the clinic has established a reputation for both the high quality of its treatments and their calm, personalised delivery. Situated in a wonderfully maintained Georgian townhouse in Edgbaston and featuring some exquisite period furnishings, one could easily forget this is a high-end 21st century clinical facility. The refined décor plays a vital role in overturning common misconceptions about the world of dentistry, with clients finding warmth and tranquility where they might once have expected a cold intensity. Achieving this feel was always a key component of the Highfield Dental Clinic vision. Regardless of the treatment required, the clinic’s highly qualified staff understand that some patients may experience some dental anxiety and work hard to ensure everyone receives the same level of professional and compassionate, personal attention. Individual treatment plans are tailored to the specific needs of every patient, whether they are in need of a simple restoration, a slight enchancment of their smile or something altogether more profound.

The Drs Assadi are keen to embrace the latest dental technologies so as to make certain of the best possible clinical outcomes, and in recent years many newly available techniques have led to radical improvements to their patients’ treatments. Among these advances at Highfield Dental Clinic is the CEREC method, now the gold standard of tooth restoration. An advanced CAD technology literally designs and mills your new crown to precision while you wait, cutting out the laboratory step and eliminating the need for temporary stage. Many of the clinic’s patients now take advantage of a same-day dental implant service rather than attending numerous appointments and enduring weeks of disruption and discomfort while their implant is fabricated.

Orthodontic treatments have also undergone something of a revolution of late and have enjoyed a remarkable surge in popularity. Dr Naz ShojaAssadi serves as Highfield Dental Clinic’s specialist orthodontist and can offer patients all the latest specialist therapies in order to harmonise their teeth and jaws, banish asymmetry and minimise the possibility of bite related headaches. These include Radiance fixed braces made from clear, polished sapphire or as an alternative, Invisalign, the new invisible braces can be used when discretion is the watchword.

Set up to excel across a broad spectrum of specialisations, the clinic has a number of facilities dedicated to educational purposes and other areas of medicine. The Drs Assadi realise they have a responsibility to give something back to their profession, and as such they have designed a bespoke lecture room with a full multimedia provision, allowing students to learn their craft and fellow clinicians to pursue their ongoing professional development. The teaching facilities for hire also include a seminar room and a ‘phantom head’ room in which that all important, hands-on experience can be gained.

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

Highfield Dent The clinic offers a suite of private consultation rooms, all perfectly appointed for use in dermatology, physiotherapy and rheumatology for example, and there is a specialist treatment area for the performance of minor surgeries. Elegant boardroom facilities are also available for private meetings. As a flexible venue offering a wide variety of medical, aesthetic and educational services, the Highfield Dental Clinic is far more than the sum of its parts. As a rate dental practice looking to the future to find the solutions you require, it is second to none in the West Midlands.

2 Highfield Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 3ED, United Kingdom Phone: 0121 455 6974 • www.highfielddental.co.uk

Country Club Membership at Stapleford Park B E PA RT O F S O M E T H I N G S P E C I A L

Here at Stapleford Park Country House Hotel and Sporting Estate our members enjoy a real home from home in the country. To some members itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a haven, a space remote from busy life, somewhere to relax, restore calm, a familiar escape. Membership has other privileges too, including special rates on accommodation in the House, food and drinks in the dining rooms, as well as spa treatments and golf tuition.

F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N :

please call us on 01572 787055 or email membership@stapleford.co.uk Stapleford Park Country House Hotel & Sporting Estate, Stapleford, Nr. Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, LE14 2EF

Corporate Membership at Stapleford Park

Academy Golf Membership at Stapleford Park Enjoy Golf Membership at Stapleford Park with unlimited use of the golf course, a 6,944 yard par 73 championship level course designed by Donald Steel. Benefits include:

To make life easy for you and your business we have devised a Corporate Membership package that will facilitate you, your team and your clients to benefit from the use of the Golf and Lifestyle facilities at Stapleford Park, all year round. Each bearer card provides access to the Golf Academy and the Lifestyle Club and can be used once per day, either by yourself and colleagues, or you can choose to offer it to any of your clients, partners, or potential customers. Twelve complimentary green fees per year, per bearer card are also included when booking a corporate golf day. F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N :

please call us on 01572 787055 or email membership@stapleford.co.uk

• 1 hour free golf lesson with the Stapleford Park PGA Golf Pro • Unlimited access to the golf course • Access to all golf competitions, including Club Championships • Includes EGU and L&RGU subscriptions • Official EGU handicap • 10% discount on food & beverage in The Pavilion Restaurant • Member’s guest rate of £25 for 18 holes, or £15 for 9 holes

F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N :

please call us on 01572 787044 or email clubs@stapleford.co.uk

“It’s the whole set up here that attracted me to Stapleford Park. I can’t think of anywhere more relaxing to come, to get away from the pressures of everyday life on the tour” - J U S T I N RO S E , G O L F E R

Telephone: +44 (0) 1572 787000 | Fax: +44 (0) 1572 787001 | Email: sales@stapleford.co.uk | www.staplefordpark.com

GYMS DON’T WORK. AND HERE’S 10 REASONS WHY.

The classic gym membership model is based on you never going to the gym (they rely on your failure); imagine what it would be like if even half of the members turned up!

You only pay for use of the equipment (no advice, support or expertise is given).

You only get ‘one size fits all’ classes!

No accountability (unless it’s renewal time of course)!

No education in effective long-term benefits for you.

Little or no personal engagement throughout your membership.

Full of ineffective machines in everyday use.

Boring workouts that never inspire you.

No real community or social opportunities to meet with like minded people.

10.

They rarely offer ‘health food options’ to compliment and support all of your hard work.

AT You pay for the very best expertise in Fitness, Pilates and Wellbeing. Every member is treated as an individual with total focus on your needs and ambitions. Membership is exclusively capped. Our success is only measured by your success. Equipment at The Hub has been custom built to deliver the most effective results and experiences just for you. You will experience innovative high-energy workouts incomparable to any gym you’ve experienced before. You will receive continuous support from out coaches personally at The Hub, as well as by phone, email or through our exclusive online coaching program.

BUT DON’T WORRY HELP IS ON ITS WAY... An exciting new destination for your body has launched in Solihull.

You will have access to our new and exciting MK Juice Lounge combining cutting edge nutritional knowledge with skills of our creative chef to produce delicious juices, smoothies, meals and snacks, providing essential support to your hard work and everyday wellbeing. Educating you in all aspects of Health, Fitness and Wellbeing is the very essence of what we do. The Hub is a unique environment constantly generating success and shared by like - minded people who enjoy life and all its challenges.

For a complimentary consultation to discuss your personal health and fitness goals and aspirations or for more information on how you can enjoy the unique benefits of our Founder Membership Status (strictly limited availability and on a first come first served basis) please contact us:

Tel: 0121 704 0593 Email: info@mkhealthhub.co.uk Online: www.mkhealthhub.co.uk

Beautiful,Elegant, Sophisticated /rwhairsolihull Solihullâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest and most successful salon are offering Inspirational Magazine readers a chance to experience a fantastic haircut, on their first visit for half price. Simply quote:

#INSPIRATIONAL

@RWallaceHair

When you book your appointment.

Call: 0121 705 8070

Visit: www.richardwallacehair.co.uk

Richard Wallace Hair, Shelly Farm Shopping Centre, 5 Farmhouse Way, Monkspath, Solihull, West Midlands B90 4EH

Kenilworth Road, Knowle B93 0JA Telephone 0 1 5 6 4 7 7 9 4 9 1

Fashion-Themed CafĂŠ & Boutique

Experience something

special! Delicious Home Cooked Food

Breakfast, Lunch and Daily Specials Afternoon Entertainment and Evening Events Traditional Afternoon Tea Freshly Baked Cakes from the Trolley Licensed Premises Fashion Shows Victorian Arcade-style Bridal Shop

and more! catwalk-cafe.co.uk gillianwesley.co.uk

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

Inspirational Magazine enjoy a luxurious stay at the

HYATT REGENCY HOTEL

The Hyatt Regency stands in the heart of Birmingham city centre, dazzling guests with its five-star facilities and exceptional service. Inspirational Magazine decided to visit the renowned hotel to take a tour of the stunning facilities and spend the night at one of Birmingham’s premier hotels.

We then moved into the elegant surroundings of the Aria restaurant where we enjoyed a Champagne afternoon tea, served with a stunning collection of Jing Teas. Traditionally British finger sandwiches were served alongside scones with sumptuous strawberry jam and Cornish clotted cream.

From the moment we stepped through the doors and into the dazzling Atrium lobby, it was clear that a stay at the Hyatt Regency was going to be unforgettable. We began with a drink in the lobby, taking in the atmosphere and enjoying the stunning surroundings.

Inspirational Magazine were lucky enough to stay in one of the newly refurbished rooms which featured breath-taking panoramic views of the city skyline. With modern décor and spacious interiors, there really are few hotels that can compete with quality on offer at the Hyatt Regency.

Inspirational Magazine were lucky enough to take an exclusive tour of the premises, guided by General Manager Mario Flanagan. The Hyatt Regency is currently undergoing a multi-million pound refurbishment that will see the entire hotel rejuvenated and Flanagan is clearly passionate about the bright future that the hotel has ahead of it. Though the hotel is already one of Birmingham’s best, the money invested will take the Hyatt Regency into a different class.

Though the hotel offers the finest in luxury, their aim is make it accessible to a wide range of people. Located in the heart of the city centre, a variety of museums and landmarks are just a short walk away and a stay in the Hyatt Regency truly brings Birmingham to life.

As part of the tour, we saw the extensive conference facilities and variety of rooms on offer; from the plush standard rooms to the breath-taking Presidential suite. The Hyatt Regency is the first choice for VIPs and high-profile celebrities visiting Birmingham and it is easy to see why. As we were guided around the hotel, it became clear that every detail has been carefully considered and no expense has been spared. After the tour, we visited the luxury Amala Spa which offers the perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life with a complete range of facilities and state-of-the-art therapy rooms. We enjoyed a fabulous full body massage and facial, before taking a swim in the peaceful indoor pool.

Throughout our stay, the staff were friendly and attentive and the service was impeccable. The Hyatt Regency is a towering presence in Birmingham and are always looking for new ways to improve on an already world-class hotel.

Hyatt Regency Birmingham

2 Bridge Street, Birmingham, England, B1 2JZ Tel: +44 121 643 1234 Fax: +44 121 616 2323 Email: birmingham.regency@hyatt.com

@hyattbham HyattRegencyBirmingham

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

HYATT REGENCY HOTEL Illuminating Birmingham’s skyline

In the heart of Birmingham city centre, the Hyatt Regency towers above other hotels in the Midlands, guaranteeing five-star facilities and exceptional service. Currently undergoing a multi-million pound refurbishment, the Hyatt Regency stands alongside the very best hotels in the country. Though Birmingham is known as the UK’s second city, the Hyatt Regency has facilities that many London hotels simply cannot offer. While many top hotels in the capital do not have the space for a 16-metre indoor pool or luxury spa, the Hyatt Regency offers both, alongside its 319 rooms, outstanding restaurant and complete conference facilities. Inspirational Magazine visited the Hyatt Regency hotel to take a tour of the stunning facilities and speak to General Manager Mario Flanagan about his vision for the hotel’s future. He is extremely enthusiastic about the refurbishment and has grand plans for the Hyatt Regency: “When the Hyatt Regency was first constructed in Birmingham 25 years ago, the city was way ahead of its time and I believe it remains a truly modern and exciting metropolis. We want our hotel to cater to everyone and offer a first-class service without making anyone feel excluded. Change is good and our refurbishment shows our desire to change with the times to offer the very best to our guests. Despite all these changes, we have remained consistent in the best aspects of our hotel. Many of our staff have been working here for a number of years – our door staff have over 100 years’ experience between them.”

Hyatt Regency Birmingham

2 Bridge Street, Birmingham, England, B1 2JZ Tel: +44 121 643 1234 Fax: +44 121 616 2323 Email: birmingham.regency@hyatt.com

@hyattbham HyattRegencyBirmingham

“We offer all the services of a five-star hotel at a very competitive price. We certainly offer more than many other city hotels in London but people will pay five times the price in the capital!” Part of the refurbishment involves creating a brand new bar that is styled on a traditional tavern with a contemporary twist. Opening onto Broad Street with a stunning terrace, the new bar will welcome guests and non-residents alike and will ensure the hotel is even more accessible to the public. Mario Flanagan said: “We are extremely excited about the brand new bar and restaurant. We want both to have their own identity separate from the hotel and attract a range of new customers. We will offer a number of beers on tap as well as some fantastic cocktails and fine wine so customers have a wide choice. The menu will offer a range of pub classics with a contemporary twist, as well as reflecting the strong Asian influence in the city’s cuisine.” The 319 luxury rooms and suites all have floor-to-ceiling windows that command breathtaking views of the canal network or the city. Many of Birmingham’s top attractions are all nearby including the new Library of Birmingham, Mailbox and Bullring shopping centres and the NIA. The UK’s finest concert hall, Symphony Hall, is just around the corner and is the perfect place to relax and take in a show. For an even more exclusive experience, the Presidential Suite offers the pinnacle of luxury featuring separate spacious lounge and dining areas, kitchenette, bedroom with chez lounge, plush king bed and a luxurious bathroom. Other features include double fronted floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic city views, complementing a modern décor featuring a spacious en-suite bathroom with separate Jacuzzi bath, walk-in shower unit and sauna. Mario Flanagan concluded by explaining how the Hyatt Regency will interact with the local business community: “Our central focus is bringing Birmingham back to the hotel – our hotel tells the story of the city and brings its rich history to life. We are committed to getting involved in the community of Birmingham which is why we are working closely alongside local contractors, decorators and artists to complete our refurbishment. We aim to inspire people as well as being inspired by the businesses that are closest to us. Birmingham has the best of all worlds and our hotel will reflect this.”

BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

BIRMINGHAM’S PREMIER LIFESTYLE AND SHOPPING

DESTINATION, THE MAILBOX, HAS SECURED LUXURY

CINEMA OPERATOR, EVERYMAN CINEMAS, AS PART OF

THE SCHEME’S REFURBISHMENT ANNOUNCED EARLIER THIS YEAR. THE DEAL WITH EVERYMAN WILL SEE A

THREE SCREEN, 12,000 SQ FT CINEMA OPEN IN THE LATTER PART OF 2014.

CONSTRUCTION FOR EVERYMAN CINEMA STARTS AT THE MAILBOX Everyman currently operates 10 cinemas across London, the South East and Leeds. Everyman at The Mailbox will be the group’s first cinema in the Midlands, bringing the brand’s signature style and focus on hospitality to Birmingham with sofa seating, stylish bar, lounge areas and ‘rustle-free’ food. The cinema will offer the very latest in digital projection with Sony Digital 4K projectors and 3D capabilities, to screen a carefully selected and varied programme of quality films and special events including live theatre and opera. 52

Everyman at The Mailbox will also feature a fully licensed bar with fine wines, champagnes, beers and cocktails, as well as an enhanced food offering. The redevelopment of The Mailbox includes a new 45,000 sq ft Harvey Nichols signature store. Pre-let agreements have also been signed with leading fashion brands Jaeger, Gieves & Hawkes, L.K. Bennett and Daniel Footwear. Internationally renowned Castle Fine Art will open a new gallery within the scheme.

Plans designed by Stirling Prize winning architects, Stanton Williams, will see the entire retail mall enclosed and sky lit to create an urban room with new facades, finishes and store frontages. Improved way-finding throughout the mixed-use scheme will be introduced.

Harvey Nichols, Emporio Armani, Nicky Clarke, Toni and Guy Essensuals and BBC Birmingham are staying open throughout the refurbishment, along with the scheme’s bars, restaurants, hotels, commercial offices and car park. Melanie Taylor, Head of Leasing at Milligan, development partner and joint owner of The Mailbox, said; “The development has been well received in the marketplace. We’re delighted to be able to announce such an exciting line-up for The Mailbox and are in very positive talks with further new potential occupiers.” “Whilst the refurbishment is underway, we’re committed to staying open and luxurious, ensuring that our customers continue to enjoy The Mailbox experience with a whole host of events and activities planned for Christmas and the new year ahead of completion in 2015.” Alex Wright, Associate Partner at Brockton Capital and principal owner of The Mailbox, said; “Everyman’s decision to open at The Mailbox is further endorsement of our position as the Midlands’ luxury lifestyle destination as well as the appeal of Birmingham to exciting, stand-out brands.” Andrew Myers, CEO of Everyman Media Group plc said; “At Everyman we select our locations incredibly carefully. We’ve been really impressed with the redevelopment plans and the quality and mix of brands already on board. The Mailbox and its customer base present the perfect opportunity for us to launch our concept in the Midlands.”

THE CINEMA IS SET TO OPEN TOWARDS THE END OF 2014, WITH

THE FULL REDEVELOPMENT OF THE MAILBOX COMPLETED IN 2015. WWW.MAILBOXLIFE.COM/NEWMAILBOX 53

ARTS AND CULTURE

With numerous music festivals, concerts and events featuring strongly in the Midlands throughout the year, the region has always nurtured and welcomed musical talent. With an illustrious history of solo artists and bands originating from the Midlands, Inspirational magazine is here to guide you through music acts both past and present along with some of the must-see gigs coming to our counties in 2014.

The Midlands has a musical past steeped in fame and influence on a global stage, with a number of globally recognised artists and bands starting up in Leicester, Nottingham, Derby and Birmingham. With notable artists including singers Engelbert Humpedinck and Sam Bailey along with Dire Straits bassist John Illsley, the region has produced global stars that have remained loyal ambassadors to the Midlands and paid tribute to the inherently cultured and encouraging environment they began their careers in. Perhaps the region’s most acclaimed band comes in the form of Leicester’s Brit Award winning Kasabian. Originally made up of vocalist Tom Meighan, guitarists Sergio Pizzorno and Cristopher Karloff and bassist Chris Edwards, the band has enjoyed global success and sold out huge venues in Europe, Australia and Japan. 2014 marks the ten-year anniversary and a big year for rock gods Kasabian with the band playing a celebratory homecoming gig to 35,000 people in Victoria Park in Leicester, headlining the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury as well as planning to launch their new album on 16th June. Reveling in a plethora of talent, the Midlands has recently introduced the nation to Nottingham superstar Jake Bugg. First performing on the BBC’s ‘introducing’ stage at the 2011 Glastonbury Festival, Bugg gained instant popularity for his fresh musical style influenced by the likes of The Beatles, Oasis and Johnny Cash. Headlining the 2013 Splendour Festival in Nottingham, Jake played to his adoring home crowd and attracted attention to the Midlands as a hub for exciting new talent.

Highlighting its status as a musically orientated and creative selection of counties, in 2014 the Midlands will play host to a multitude of festivals. Kicking off the summer, Download at Donington is set to be as successful as ever and emphasise the region’s ability to lead the way in attracting huge bands to play in front of thousands of devoted fans. Situated on the borders of Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire and Derbyshire and running between the 13th and 15th of June, the motorsport capital of the Midlands is transformed into a haven for showcasing music. 2014 is set to be another golden year for the festival, with the track’s infield hosting a number of stages and acclaimed bands including Linkin Park, Status Quo and Aerosmith. Nottingham’s turn to demonstrate its ability to entertain the nation with a variety of legendary bands and artists takes place a month later with the Splendour Festival at Wollaton Park on the 19th of July. With headline acts including Tom Odell and the Happy Mondays, musicians will perform in front of a 20,000 strong audience. With the big news that the original members of Boomtown Rats will be featuring in the line up for 2014, Splendour is guaranteed to be bigger than ever and gain attention from a wide spanning music community. To finish a summer of music in the Midlands, the Leicester Music Festival has brought in some of the biggest musical stars in the country. Celebrating all the city has to offer, headline acts include Tinie Tempah, Labrinth and Leicester’s own 2013 X Factor winner, Sam Bailey. Located at the Leicester Tigers ground, the festival will play to 44,000 people over two days in an attempt to assert the region’s authority as a hive for musical activity.

Alongside the Midland’s busy schedule of music festivals, a number of global superstars are set to visit the area’s largest concert venues in the coming months. Birmingham’s LG Arena continues to secure hugely famous bands and artists to perform at their 15,000 seat venue. Beginning on the 13th June with the Pet Shop Boys, the LG’s summer events schedule features the likes of Robbie Williams on the 5th and 6th July and Dolly Parton on the 22nd June, as part of her Blue Smoke World Tour. The National Indoor Arena is similarly endowed with pre-eminent musical acts similar to the LG Arena. Welcoming Australian pop star Kylie Minogue on the 7th October, the NIA will showcase its ability to put on a fantastic show and ensure fans get the best experience possible. Also playing host to Lady Gaga on the 15th October, the Arena will be transformed in true Gaga fashion and stage an evening of wonder and amazement to please all ‘little monsters’ attending. Hospitality experts Amplify are on hand at both the LG Arena and the NIA to guarantee your visits to the very best live performances are combined with wonderful drinks and fine dining. Continuing Birmingham’s trend as a premier entertainment destination in the country, the Symphony Hall Birmingham also promises to provide a wonderful line up in 2014. Featuring legends of music including Jeff Beck in May as well as Rhys Chatham and George Benson in June, the Symphony Hall has become a stalwart port of call for musical enthusiasts who enjoy a varied mix of artists combined the with the convenience of a city centre venue location.

Proving testament to the Midland’s status as one of the most impressive regions in the nation for musical talent and performance venues, the range of acts visiting the area over the coming months will ensure that 2014 is another wonderful year for creating new stars whilst celebrating the UK’s entertainment culture in style. 55

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.

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Neil Back MBE and Rybrook Holdings Join Forces Slickness, speed, power; attributes Neil Back MBE exuded throughout his career and qualities mirrored in the Rolls-Royce Wraith. For two weeks, Neil drove one of the world’s most sought-after automobiles courtesy of leading UK car dealer group Rybrook Holdings Ltd. Rybrook Holdings is one of the UK’s largest privately owned new and used car dealerships in the UK, specialising in premium car brands including Bentley, BMW, Honda, Jaguar, McLaren and Porsche. With dedicated showrooms across the West Midlands and all over the country, Rybrook offers all the facilities and resources to ensure that their premium cars are maintained to deliver peak performance at all times, and remain in perfect condition. Rybrook Holdings Ltd has a dedicated and professional team and over 70 years of specialist automotive experience. They pride themselves on providing exceptional levels of customer service, corporate and fleet options as well as comprehensive aftersales. Earlier this year, Rybrook announced rugby legend Neil Back as their Group Ambassador; a partnership which has brought unparalleled success to both parties. With an incredible work rate and unmatched performance on the field, Neil Back quickly became one of the most highly respected members of the England squad. Back’s career reached its peak in 2003 when he won the Rugby World Cup in Australia, playing an integral role in England’s march to the title. He also enjoyed an illustrious career with Leicester Tigers, spending 18 years at the club as a player and a coach, scoring 125 tries and winning every domestic trophy including back-to-back Heineken Cups. Inspirational Magazine spoke to Neil Back about his experiences driving the Rolls-Royce Wraith. His enthusiasm was immediately apparent, and his eyes lit up as soon as he began talking about the potent and technically-advanced Wraith: “The thought of having the opportunity to drive the most powerful Rolls-Royce in history, the Wraith, promised so much. From finding out the pick-up date and time I didn’t tell a soul but often found myself smiling in the knowledge that soon I’d be behind the wheel. The weeks and days leading up to the pick-up date couldn’t go fast enough. “Finally the time arrived and I headed over to Rybrook Rolls-Royce, Hockley Heath to pick up the keys to a Wraith which was mine for the next 17 days! On arrival, Giles and Mike at Rybrook introduced me to my new baby and talked me through the controls. After the first few miles it was crystal clear that the Wraith wasn’t going to let me down; it oozed luxury, refinement and quality; all the traits that I believe Rolls-Royce customers would expect.” “On Sunday 9th March, I drove down to Twickenham for the Six Nations to watch England vs Wales – I certainly attracted more than a few admiring glances! During the 17 days, I drove the Wraith to the Cheltenham Gold Cup and Welford Road to watch the Tigers, as well as the usual school runs and needed no excuse to take it out for a spin! It was a truly special experience and a real pleasure to drive. “The Wraith will definitely attract a younger customer; its athletic sweeping lines and power on tap allows you to choose to waft around or unleash the power beneath your right foot. Inside, the Wraith features all the state of art technology and gadgets you would expect but wrapped in beauty.”

For more information on Rybrook’s range of cars and services visit

www.rybrook.co.uk

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FIRST CLASS Pre-owned Watches from Johnsons Jewellers

lers Since 97

lers Since

The first and most obvious reason that more people are choosing to buy pre-owned watches is that they offer much better value for money. For some people, watches that were out of their price range become much more accessible after they have been owned. Pre-owned watches often prove to be a much sounder investment than buying brand new as they depreciate in value at a much slower

Johnsons Jewellers in Nuneaton stock a wide range of leading watch brands including Rolex, Breitling, Omega and Tag Heuer and have a growing range of pre-owned watches. The expert in-store team ensure that each pre-owned timepiece is fully authenticated to be of the highest standard so buyers can be rest assured that they are purchasing timepieces of exceptionally high quality.

While many people still bypass pre-owned watches for their brand new counterparts, the advantages of buying a second-hand timepiece are proving to be a first-class choice for many people. Many jewellers are stocking a growing selection of pre-owned watches to keep up with rising demand from the public.

• Fine

rate. In some cases, timepieces can even increase in value through the chain reaction of price increases on new models, desirability and rarity. For watch enthusiasts, the pre-owned marketplace offers a treasure trove of stunning timepieces at affordable prices. While new watches are often changing and older models discontinued, the pre-owned marketplace offers a much wider variety including timepieces that are no longer available brand new. Buyers have the option of choosing from watches from any era and can select the exact model they want. The internet has made pre-owned watches even more accessible than ever before and that sought-after watch from your teenage years may only be a few clicks away. With a dedicated team in-store and high quality website, Johnsons is one of the West Midlands’ leading jewellers. With over 115 years of history, Johnsons works with beautiful gems, the most exquisite diamonds and exclusive timepieces. Johnsons offers a dedicated service to customers whether they choose to visit the store or purchase online.

See the full range of jewellery and watches online at www.johnsonsjewellers.co.uk 50-51 Queens Road, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV11 5JX

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R O L E X D AY T ON A

over 50 years of speed, style and sophistication Marked by a passion for speed and motorsport, the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona has remained one of Rolex’s most iconic creations for over 50 years. Since 1963 when the first Daytona model was created, it has consistently evolved over time, cementing its legendary status.

Famous for its long straight beach and illustrious motor racing history, the city of Daytona in Florida lends its name to Rolex’s inspirational timepiece. Since 1903, Daytona has been the home of speed and has seen countless land speed records broken including the most significant at 276 mph (445 km/h) in 1935. The city’s passion for motorsport did not end there and in 1959, the Daytona International Speedway was opened and quickly became the fastest racing circuit in the United States. Rolex became official sponsor of the Daytona International Speedway and from the first edition of the Daytona Continental, the champion driver won a Rolex watch in addition to the trophy. Captivating, spectacular and extremely demanding, the Rolex 24 At Daytona is the only top-level sports car race in the world, besides the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The Daytona timepiece has all the qualities that has kept Rolex as the world’s leading watch brand for decades: reliability, precision, timelessness and elegance.

Considered by many to be the ultimate chronograph, it is the product of a long maturation process that began in 1963. Created to be sleek and stylish as well as practical, the Daytona was an instant hit. Designed for racing enthusiasts, the tachymetric scale allows the measurement of average speeds over a given distance using the chronograph second hand. Through continual invention and innovation, the Daytona has grown in popularity and it latest evolution has seen it offered in platinum. As well as the destination in Florida and the legendary chronograph, the name Daytona conjures up images of the world’s greatest drivers; the pioneers of speed. Between 1924 and 1935, Sir Malcolm Campbell, known as the ‘King of Speed’, broke the world land speed record nine times, setting five of them on the beach in Daytona. From 1930 onwards, Campbell had been wearing a Rolex Oyster, and it was on his wrist during this record-breaking exploit.

One of the most renowned faces in Formula 1, Sir Jackie Stewart won three world championships during his glittering career. In tribute to his status in motor sport, in 2012 he was Grand Marshal of the 50th anniversary edition of the Rolex 24 At Daytona. Rolex continue to support some of the most inspirational racing events on the planet including the stern test of endurance that is the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Goodwood Revival which celebrates the golden era of motorsport. Each inscription on the dial of a Rolex watch is a guarantee of performance, and each marking on the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona chronicles its development to legendary status. With half a century of illustrious history behind it, the Daytona is a shining beacon in Rolex’s collection, embodying all of the exceptional qualities that have kept it as the world’s most celebrated watch brand.

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the

HOSTS: URUGUAY ITALY FRANCE BRAZIL SWITZERLAND SWEDEN CHILE ENGLAND MEXICO WEST GERMANY ARGENTINA SPAIN MEXICO ITALY USA FRANCE SOUTH KOREA & JAPAN GERMANY SOUTH AFRICA BRAZIL

MAKING of

Capturing the imagination of millions of fans around the globe, the FIFA World Cup is the biggest sporting spectacle on the planet. A festival of football, the 2014 edition of the tournament will be hosted by five-time World Cup winners and one of the most iconic footballing nations in the world, Brazil. Hurst’s hat-trick, Gazza’s tears, the hand of God – a few words can conjure up vivid national memories and emotions, with many more set to be created in Brazil. Football reaches across society, transcending politics, religion and language to provide universal entertainment to millions. Though the first World Cup was not hosted until 1930, the tournament has origins dating back to the beginning of the 20th century. The first global football tournaments were hosted as part of the Olympics but were disrupted by the First World War, and then by controversy over whether professional sportsmen should feature at what was a supposedly amateur event. In 1921, Jules Rimet became the third president of FIFA and played a crucial role in establishing the World Cup as we know it. As well as creating an incredible footballing event, FIFA had another central aim: to unite nations around the globe.

Having won gold medals in 1924 and 1928, Uruguay was chosen to host the inaugural World Cup in 1930. The tournament was not an instant success, welcoming just four European teams due to a combination of the long sea journey to South America and the thought of losing their best players for two months. The home nation won the tournament but refused to compete in the following two World Cups due to their perceived snub by the European nations. Famed for his diplomatic abilities and passion for football, Jules Rimet worked hard to ease tensions between countries, presiding over the World Cup until his retirement in 1954. He was a central figure in creating a tournament that countries would be proud to compete in. The Jules Rimet Trophy was named in recognition of the monumental contribution he made to the sport. Since the Second World War, the World Cup has been staged in 15 countries, across five continents around the world. A truly global competition, a total of 76 national teams have competed for the most coveted prize in football, with new countries taking part in each new edition of the tournament. Peter Shilton OBE is a veteran of three World Cups, as well as being England’s most-capped player in history, with 125

the fifa world cup

LEGENDS appearances. Inspirational Magazine were lucky enough to speak with the England legend to discuss his experiences in the World Cup and how he predicts the current England squad will fare in Brazil.

“I was extremely proud to play in three World Cup finals; each one has some incredible memories for me. 1982 was unusual as we were eliminated despite only conceding one goal due to the format of the event that year. 1990 was also special because it’s the furthest England has ever reached in the World Cup finals away from home and we were only knocked out on penalties. “Obviously 1986 is memorable because of the ‘Hand of God’ moment which denied us the chance to go further in the tournament. It’s a moment I still feel angered by today, as I’m sure many others feel the same, which goes to show how much the World Cup matters. “During my era, I played with some fantastic players and I would say the teams were some of the best ever put out by England. We were capable of scoring plenty of goals while not conceding too many at the back.” On 12th June 2014, the World Cup in Brazil will begin with the

home nation taking on Croatia in Sao Paulo. This tournament is sparking more widespread excitement than in recent years as it is being hosted by a country that has won the World Cup more times than any other in history. Peter Shilton discussed his thoughts on the upcoming tournament: “From my experiences playing in Mexico in 1986, it will certainly take time to adapt to the climate and altitude in Brazil. When we went, we had a month to acclimatise to the conditions but this England side won’t have the same opportunity we did. “No one is quite sure what to expect from this England squad and there’s definitely a lot less pressure than in previous years. This is a young squad that is more than capable of scoring a few goals and competing with some of the best teams at the moment. Roy Hodgson has done very well giving young players the opportunity to come into the squad and improve. We have some very talented players like Jack Wilshere, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Ross Barkley and if they all play well, who knows what could happen?”

The 2014 FIFA World Cup will take place 12th June – 13th July 2014. England will begin their campaign against Italy on 15th June 2014 in Manaus. Pictures from left to right: 1986: French midfielder Michel Platini 1986: Argentine Maradona & Peter Shilton OBE 1966: England winning team 1974: Dutch midfielder Johann Cruyff 1994: Romario of Brazil 1970: Brazilian midfielder Pelé 1994: Rudy Voeller and Juergen Klinsmann of Germany 1990: Paul Gascoigne

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

Introducing The New Belfry After a £26 million refurbishment, the resort has been restored to its former glory as a world-class business and leisure destination, surrounded by over 500 acres of rolling countryside. The new Belfry introduces luxurious meeting and events rooms, guest bedrooms and suites, the brand new Ryder Grill restaurant and the Brabazon Bar as well as the refurbished Sam’s Club House, new public lounges and reception areas. Less than 70 minutes train journey from London and ideally located to the National Exhibition Centre, the resort is a gateway to Birmingham city centre and the Midlands region. Transport links are excellent with Birmingham Airport and Railway Station close by, and easy access to national motorway networks via the M6 and M42.

Newly Refurbished Bedrooms & Suites The refurbishment of the 319 bedrooms and suites include diamond patterned wallpaper – a nod to the famous Pringle golf jumpers – walk-in power showers, HD wide-screen Sky TV’s and high speed wireless internet. The Signature Suites include generous living space and sweeping views over the golf courses. Or guests can stay in one of the three Manor House Suites located in the oldest part of the hotel including opulent bathrooms and living areas, with views overlooking either the PGA Championship or The Brabazon golf courses.

The Brabazon Bar Located in the heart of the hotel, the former courtyard garden has been designed with a central glass coula. Guests can enjoy a range of classic cocktails, fine wines, Champagne or afternoon tea prepared by renowned Pastry Chef Dean Cole.

The Ryder Grill A refreshing take on modern dining headed up by award-winning Chef Director Glen Watson. Diners can enjoy stunning views of the open plan kitchen as it takes centre stage. Signature dishes include 28-day dry aged steaks sourced locally from 19 Gales Farm and classic Chateaubriand from the Buccleauch Estate.

Sam’s Club House For golfers and visitors alike, Sam’s Club House offers a more casual dining experience with high seating at the main bar area and broadcasts of the latest live worldwide sport.

Leisure Café Tucked away in our spa complex, the Leisure Café serves up healthy snacks, reviving smoothies and great coffee – all in a laid-back, family friendly atmosphere.

Golf Courses The Belfry has become synonymous with golf and is a Mecca for both professional and amateur players. Host to more Ryder Cup matches than any other venue in the world, and steeped in tournament history. Our three courses offer something for players of every level. Play the infamous Brabazon, one of the world’s most revered golf courses. Test your swing on the PGA National, England’s only PGA-branded course. Or, for a gentler challenge, take on The Derby our small but perfectly formed parkland-style course.

PGA Golf Academy The PGA National Golf Academy reflects The Belfry’s dedication to golf, offering world-class golf tuition, practice facilities and custom fitting experience. Whether you are an advanced golfer, or wanting to learn the basics, the PGA National Golf Academy at The Belfry caters for all golfers of all abilities. With a handpicked team of PGA qualified Golf Professionals on site, they are continually developing the level of tuition by training with the biggest names in golf.

Golf Shop Raise your game with the latest kit from some of the sport’s biggest brands including TaylorMade, Callaway, Ping, Titleist and Nike. For the ultimate advantage on the fairways, why not treat yourself to state-of-the-art, made-to-measure clubs at the PGA National Academy.

Bel Air Club & Lounge Completely transformed, the new Bel Air Club & Lounge offers a stylish and unique clubbing experience with a blend of dance anthems, club classics, old skool, party and retro from our great DJ line up. Ideally located within the hotel grounds, and open to residents and non-residents. Reserve a VIP table and party in style in our exclusive Platinum Lounge, offering great views of the nightclub and first class service with a range of VIP packages for your perfect evening.

The New Belfry more than matches The Brabazon’s iconic greens and fairways. Pull up a stool at the glittering Champagne bar. Dine in style in our two enticing restaurants. Drift away in the world-class spa. Then sink into your deep, cosy bed. Why not come and see the transformation yourself... The Belfry, Lichfield Road, Wishaw, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands B76 9PR

0844 980 0600

www.TheBelfry.com 67

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

In sport, the words ‘genius’ and ‘legend’ are often bandied about to describe any sportsman who has shown some talent in their field, but few are really deserving of the titles. Sir Garfield Sobers is one of the rare exceptions and proudly stands alongside the all-time sporting greats. An elegant yet powerful batsman, highly skilled fielder, deceptive spin bowler, devastating fast bowler and enterprising captain, Sobers stood out from his contemporaries with his incomparable skill and versatility.

Sobers’ impact on the national team was instant with figures of 4/75 in England’s first innings on his debut, including a wicket in his opening over. He quickly established himself as a regular in the squad, playing in various different positions and utilising his immense talent. The statistics speak for themselves: in 93 international Test matches he captained the West Indies on 39 occasions, scored 8,032 runs including 26 centuries, took 235 wickets as a bowler and 109 catches as a fielder.

Born on the Caribbean island of Barbados in 1936, Sir Garfield Sobers showed his natural sporting ability from a young age, excelling in football and basketball, before turning his considerable talent to cricket. Sobers made his debut for the West Indies against England, aged just 17. Initially, he gained his place on his spin bowling ability alone but he quickly developed his batting before turning his attention to fast bowling, becoming deadly with the new ball. Not content there, he became adept at fielding in every position and completed his mastery of each of cricket’s disciplines.

One of his crowning achievements came in the 1957-1958 tour of Pakistan where he set the record for the highest test score of all time, scoring an incredible 365 not out. Although he was just 21-years-old at the time, Sobers showed his mature head and strong temperament during his 614 minute innings. His record stood for an incredible 36 years and few batsmen have surpassed this total today. In 1966, the year that England famously won the FIFA World Cup, Sir Garfield Sobers did his best to single-handedly take on the entire English

“The greatest exhibition of batting ever seen in Australia” - Sir Don Bradman 68

cricket team on their home turf. During the five-match series, he was heralded as ‘King Cricket’ after scoring 722 runs, taking 20 wickets and 10 catches. Arguably Sobers’ most iconic moment came in 1968, while captaining Nottinghamshire against Glamorgan when he faced the bowling of the unfortunate Malcolm Nash. In one fateful over, Sobers stunned the cricketing world by becoming the first man to score six sixes in a single over. With six swings of his bat, and despite being caught on the fifth ball before the fielder fell over the boundary, Sir Garfield Sobers seized yet another piece of cricketing history. In 1971, Australia played five special Test matches against a Rest of the World XI led by Sir Garfield Sobers. During the third Test, Sobers played what the great Sir Donald Bradman described as “the greatest exhibition of batting ever seen in Australia”, an innings that remains an inspiration to young batsmen today. Sobers continued to captain the West Indies until his retirement from all forms of cricket in 1974. He played his last Test in March at Queen’s Park Oval against England and was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his services to cricket the same year. During his decorated

career, Sobers has received countless accolades: Don Bradman named him amongst his all-time top XI and he was named one of the Wisden Cricketers of the Century in 2000. Sobers is universally admired in the cricketing world and he inspired many of the great all-rounders that followed him. Back in Barbados, Sir Garfield Sobers is a national treasure and was named a National Hero in 1998 by the then Prime Minister Owen Arthur. The graciousness and good humour he showed on the field remains with him today, and he is proud of his achievements and his country. In August 2014, Sir Garfield Sobers will return to England where he continues to be revered in the sporting world. Champions Speakers is offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for fans to book Sir Garfield Sobers for after dinner speaking engagements including cricket days. Always active in his life, his passion for sport continues and he is a keen golfer, making him the ideal personality to attend a golf day in the UK. Sobers is now one of the world’s leading after dinner speakers and has a wealth of stories from his time at the forefront of cricket.

Sir Garfield Sobers is one of the rare exceptions and proudly stands alongside the all-time sporting greats.

For more information about booking Sir Garfield Sobers, please contact Champions Speakers on 08453 31 30 31 or email jackhayes@championsukplc.com

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The stars join

TONY JACKLIN CBE for his fabulous Wentworth Invitational

The inaugural Tony Jacklin CBE Wentworth Invitational will be a first-class golfing extravaganza hosted by one of the sport’s pioneering figures. The two-time Major winner will welcome a host of golfing legends and famous faces to the Wentworth Club, one of the world’s most exclusive golf courses. Tony Jacklin CBE continues to inspire generations of golfers with his unrivalled achievements in the golfing world. In 1969, he became the first Englishman in 18 years to triumph at The Open Championship, which he quickly followed up with an historic US Open victory in 1970 on a windswept Hazeltine National Golf Course. During the pinnacle of his playing years, he became a hugely influential celebrity figure and is credited with boosting golf’s popularity in Britain, the rest of Europe and the world! Jacklin’s 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. Jacklin’s achievements have been recognised as ground-breaking in the history of golf and the list of professionals he has inspired reads like a who’s who of the golfing elite - Sir Nick Faldo, Sandy Lyle MBE, Seve Ballesteros, Bernhard Langer and Ian Woosnam OBE to name a few. The Tony Jacklin CBE Wentworth Charity Invitational will take place during an exciting golfing season which will culminate in the Ryder Cup at Gleneagles 23-28 September 2014. Europe will be looking to display the dominance they have shown in recent years while America will be hoping to reassert themselves and to return to winning ways. During his illustrious career, Tony Jacklin played at the Ryder Cup on seven consecutive occasions, including his legendary singles match with Jack Nicklaus in 1969 which ended in the famous ‘Concession’. Jacklin 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 event. Prior to his stewardship, the European team were short on confidence having lost the previous 13 Ryder Cups. Jacklin worked hard to instil confidence in the team and inspire them to finally get the better of their American counterparts. Surrounded by leafy London suburbs home to some of the country’s wealthiest people and a variety of celebrities, the Wentworth Club is one of the world’s most exclusive golf clubs. Founded in 1926, the club consists of three 18-hole courses and a nine-hole par 3 course. It hosts the annual BMW PGA Championship which regularly attracts the world’s top golfers and its membership includes some of the world’s most famous and wealthy people. The Tony Jacklin CBE Wentworth Charity Invitational will be a truly incredible event, as competitors will have full use of the famous West Course and competitors will play a four-ball with a leading celebrity or top professional. English billionaire businessman Richard Caring bought the Wentworth Club in 2004 and is delighted to host the event as Jacklin has always been his hero and coached him when he was younger. Many of the professionals that Tony has played alongside in his illustrious career will be in attendance, along with a variety of high-profile celebrities. The event will feature a fabulous brunch at the clubhouse, 18 holes around the magnificent golf courses and excellent entertainment throughout the day and night. All of the teams participating on the day will enjoy an exclusive whisky tasting on the first tee courtesy of Glenmorangie for whom Tony Jacklin is a global ambassador. The Tony Jacklin CBE Wentworth Charity Invitational is certain to be a world-class golfing extravaganza and will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for players and guests alike.

Countryside can be removed from clipping mask if more is needed top/bottom/left right but Farmfoods logo should remain central Red: 100% process magenta / 100% process yellow or P485 Yellow: 100% process yellow or Pantone Yellow

Headline sponsor NIGHTINGALE D E S I G N LT D

2 6 N IG H T IN G A L E C R E S C E N T WEST HORSLEY SURREY KT24 6PD

t.01483 283261

m.07950 541695

Headline sponsor

Venue partner

Official sponsor

Event organiser

Official charity

Wentworth For more information on how you can play in the event or become a sponsor please contact Lauren Duke, Events Manager at Champions (UK) plc on lduke@championsukplc.com or call 08453 31 30 31

Find out more about Tony Jacklin CBE at www.tonyjacklin.com

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD

BRITISH PAR 3 CHAMPIONSHIP

The Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship at Nailcote Hall is one of the most iconic events on the annual English sporting calendar. In its 81st year, 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. The Ryder Cup will come to Scotland for only the second time in its history when it is staged at the PGA Centenary Course at Gleneagles with the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship providing a perfect prelude to one of golf’s flagship events. For the sixth year in a row, two-time Major winner and the most successful Ryder Cup captain of all-time Tony Jacklin CBE will be hosting the Championship. Jacklin’s heroics in the 1960s, 70s and 80s were instrumental in the establishment of the European Tour as well as ending years of American dominance. The Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship provides a unique opportunity to see Tony Jacklin competing across all four days of the tournament against a field of top golfers and celebrities.

Each year, the Championship is hosted at the picturesque Nailcote Hall located in the heart of the Warwickshire countryside. Replete with streams, ponds and trees, the natural beauty is spectacular and the course has been designed to challenge even the very best golfers. Par 3 golf is continually growing in popularity and provides an ideal opportunity for players to hone their short game. The Cromwell Course at Nailcote Hall provides a stern test for any golfer; Ryder Cup legend or not! Two of the days are dedicated to the Pro-Am championship which is the ultimate prize for competitors and is always fiercely contested. European Tour star 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. Paul Broadhurst was unable to maintain his lead until the end and was overtaken by the 2013 Johnnie Walker Championship winner. Many fans flock to Nailcote Hall for the two days of Celeb-Am events, featuring some of the country’s most famous faces. Previous attendees include Manchester United legend Sir Alex Ferguson, Strictly Come Dancing judge Len Goodman, most-capped England footballer of all-time Peter Shilton OBE, Ashes winning cricketer Matthew Hoggard MBE and top comedian Jasper Carrott.

Two of this year’s European Ryder Cup vice-captains, Sam Torrance OBE and Des Smyth will be competing in the Championship once again. Torrance will forever be remembered for sinking the winning putt in the 1985 Ryder Cup under Jacklin’s stewardship and returned as captain in 2002 to preside over another European victory, while Smyth acted as vice-captain in another successful campaign in 2006.

Another draw of the championship is the Tented Village where guests can relax with a drink or trial some of the latest golfing products. Throughout the day, celebrities take to the stage for exclusive Q&A sessions about their careers; a once in a lifetime opportunity for many fans. Always one of the highlights of the week, the Grand Finale Ball is a glittering event featuring a three-course meal, top-class entertainment and a host of celebrities.

Another firm favourite of the championship is Masters winner and victorious Ryder Cup captain Ian Woosnam OBE who will welcome former teammates including Peter Baker and DJ Russell to the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship. As well as Ryder Cup legends, many current European Tour professionals and top celebrities regularly attend the week of fun and golfing excellence.

The 2013 Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship welcomed record crowds and this year’s tournament is set to be bigger and better than ever before. Headline sponsors Farmfoods will be returning once again and have pledged their support to ensure the Championship attracts elite golfers from up and down the country. Everyone is welcome to attend any or all four days of the Championship and guests are certain to see some first-class golf and more than a few famous faces.

Tickets for the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship are available at www.ticketfactory.com. Search for ‘Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship‘.

Celeb-Am Days

6th – 7th August 2014

5th & 8th August 2014

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Team of three to play 18 holes on Cromwell Course with a leading celebrity

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Each player receives one VIP guest pass for the event including access to VIP lounge for food and beverages and tented village for luxury shopping opportunities

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• • •

Black Tie Gala Ball – a lavish four-course dinner for each player and their guest in the company of their celebrity plus spectacular entertainment hosted by Tony Jacklin CBE

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Exclusive players’ pack

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Cost: To secure your place in either of the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship 2014 Celeb Am days, please contact the Champions (UK) plc team by calling 08453 31 30 31 or e-mail bp3@championsukplc.com

Pro-Am Championship The Pro-Am format is similar to that of the renowned and highly successful Dunhill Links competition which forms part of the European Tour schedule each year. Each professional golfer will team up with an amateur over the two days of the competition and the better ball score for each team will count towards a fantastic Pro-Am Team prize. Participating in the Pro-Am is a once in a lifetime experience, during which amateur golfers can experience the highs and lows of participating in a professional golf event. Featuring major winners, Ryder Cup players and golfing legends alongside leading European Tour, Champions Tour, European Senior Tour, Challenge Tour, Ladies European Tour and Sunshine Tour professionals.

Two 18 hole rounds on Cromwell Course with your professional 1 guest VIP pass for two days of the championship including access to VIP lounge for food and beverages and tented village for luxury shopping opportunities Inclusive overnight accommodation for evening of 6th August Players’ Banquet on 6th August for player plus guest, in the company of your professional and hosted by Tony Jacklin CBE, including entertainment Exclusive players’ pack

VIP Players’ Banquet Wednesday 6th August After the first day’s 18 holes are played, the players and their guest are invited to the magnificent VIP Players’ Banquet to conclude the day in style. The evening will include a delicious gourmet dinner, numerous celebrity hosts and live entertainment - allowing the players to let their hair down and prepare themselves for day two of play!

Prize Giving Ceremony Thursday 7th August Following completion of the final 18 holes of the Pro-Am event, Tony Jacklin CBE will host the prize giving ceremony, where the Farmfoods British Par 3 Champion will be announced. Professional golfers, celebrities, amateurs and their guests will all be invited to attend this wonderful concluding event of the Pro-Am.

Cost: To secure your place in the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship 2014 Professional Amateur Championship please contact the Champions (UK) Plc team by calling 08453 31 30 31 or email bp3@championsukplc.com.

prepares for a starring role at the...

BRITISH PAR 3 CHAMPIONSHIP

The Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship is one of the country’s finest displays of golfing talent. The event also offers players and guests a variety of luxurious hospitality options including beauty treatments from Leicester’s Femi Health & Beauty in the tented village. The Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship is one of the most iconic golfing tournaments on the British sporting calendar, with Ryder Cup legends taking part, and a wealth of amateur players and celebrity names joining them in the prestigious competition that runs over four days. The picturesque Nailcote Hall is transformed into an atmospheric garden party with golfers, celebrities and spectators visiting for the tournament. The popular tented village comes with a plethora of retailers including food, drink, golf wear and beauty treatments. 2014 sees Leicester’s Femi Health and Beauty salon appearing once again in the hospitality tent, providing a pop-up salon with a variety of their luxurious treatments for all attendees to divulge in. With a salon in the heart of Leicester’s city centre, Femi is the city’s premier destination for exclusive beauty treatments. Clients are able to choose from an extensive selection of beauty treatments from facials and massages to hair removal and manicures.

The salon also offers non-surgical anti-ageing treatments such as the Pro-Lifting Firming Facial, or Micro-Dermabrasion. Femi’s salon boasts 12 lavish treatment rooms and relaxation areas, making it the perfect pampering setting for group parties as well as individual bookings. All the staff are fully qualified experts in the treatments they offer and are ready to ensure that all their clients have a fantastic experience at this impressive salon. The pop-up salon, which is a replica of their remarkable shop, will allow the golfers, celebrities and spectators to have a salon experience with many of the indulgent treatments available, including manicures, pedicures, massages and facial treatments; all tailored to indulge you after a hard day on the golf course. The salon uses the opulent Décleor and Carita as their main collection of products, providing advanced techniques to ensure their clients achieve incredible results from their chosen treatments.

Last year’s pop-up salon saw famous names such as Len Goodman, Alan McInally and Willie Thorne receive treatments every day of the tournament to give them some much needed relaxation. Even the professional golfers took advantage of these luxury treatments before and after their golf matches. Femi Latif said: “We are very excited to get involved in this year’s British Par 3 Championship as last year was a wonderful four day experience. We pampered high profile golfers and celebrities with a number of different treatments, from massages to manicures! We are really looking forward to spoiling people this year with some fantastic new treatments available!” Femi’s beauty area of the hospitality village proved to be highly successful last year with golfers and guests alike so we are sure this year’s beauty offering will be even more popular, providing an idyllic escape to every visitor.

Femi Health & Beauty 60 Highcross Street, Leicester LE1 4NN | t. 0116 253 2393 Opening hours: Monday to Friday 9am - 8pm, Saturday 9am - 6pm

www.femi-health-beauty.co.uk FemiHealthandBeauty

@Femibeautyleics

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CELEBRITY

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

HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN

CABIN FEVER With the days now getting longer and the weather improving, many of us are looking to spend more time enjoying our gardens. Some of us will have even spent the dark winter months mulling over a new project or maybe a complete makeover for our back yards, but the time is fast approaching when any plans for this summer must take shape.

With the days now getting longer and the weather improving, many of us are looking to spend more time enjoying our gardens. Some of us will have spent the dark winter months mulling over a new project or maybe a complete makeover for our backyards, but the time is fast approaching when any plans for this summer must take shape. The Log Cabin Company are the right people to call if you want to add a new dimension or extra space this year. They design, build, supply and install an impressive array of bespoke timber buildings and cabins that will help make the most of your available space, permanently change the way you see and use your garden and enhance the value of your property. Established 9 years ago, the company soon understood it needed to adapt to the changing economic climate. Managing Director, Richard Jackson realised that in order for the company to prosper in the straitened times of recession the company should offer a package of value-added elements. As a result, the business has evolved in to a slick and well-oiled machine and dealing with the Log Cabin Company has become a one-stop-shop. Clients now benefit from one dedicated staff contact who takes care of everything, from preparing the ground for work to commence to arranging for electricians to turn on the juice. The Log Cabin Company now supplies and erects, across the Midlands and beyond, top quality wooden products not only into the residential market but also to the commercial sector. Currently employing approximately 60 people, the firm puts much of its success down to the knowledge and workmanship of its staff and their ingrained ability to identify precisely the requirements of their clients.

Jackson is also excited about the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new display centre at Twycross. Having finally found a suitably sized, central site where they can build and dress their display of garden rooms, they can now demonstrate to prospective clients the quality and range of their work and offer them the chance to sit down and really get a feel for the lifestyle opportunities in front of them. Fully conversant with all the latest building regulations, The Log Cabin Companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team of experts are more than happy to discuss and quote for larger projects, having extensive, detailed experience of working on school classrooms, sports pavilions, office projects and log refreshment cabins, to name but a few. In recent times the Log Cabin Company has also enjoyed completing a variety of projects, including buildings for English Heritage, stable blocks, a man-cave, a classic bandstand, a mower shed, home gyms, an outdoor pursuit centre building, a scout hut and even a Santaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grotto.

With an astonishing range of timber buildings, chalets, garages and pavilions the Log Cabin Company are perfect if you are looking to prime your garden with personality this summer.

Whatever your needs, they are dedicated to assisting you through every stage of design, manufacture and installation. A full fitting service is offered for each project the Log Cabin Company takes on. Over the years they have developed superb working relationships with a number of associated sub-contractors and as a consequence they are able to advise you on the best way to approach those issues that inevitably crop up on any project. They can therefore offer you solutions on base preparation, the fitting of additional windows or under-floor insulation and even on the application of timber preservatives and suitable paints to protect and enhance the appearance of your new cabin, inside and out. For those who want to attack the installation and fitting process themselves the Log Cabin Company makes things very easy. All of their cabins come complete with a comprehensive set of detailed fitting instructions and all the fixings you would ever need, plus their staff are always available to deal with any of your concerns and to offer friendly advice. Delivery by crane-fitted trucks is free to most central and southern locations, you will never be required to unload materials yourself and should your site offer up access problems then they can be assessed and mitigated with the help of a pre-delivery visit. With an astonishing range of timber buildings, chalets, garages and pavilions the Log Cabin Company are perfect if you are looking to prime your garden with personality this summer or to add some style to your commercial offering. Focused on quality and dedicated to making your life as easy as can be, they could have a wonderful impact on your days in the sun.

To find out more about how they can help you or your business visit www.logcabinscompany.co.uk or call 0800 917 6565. For a bespoke enquiry please call Cerys Roberts on 01827 880780

HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN

EXQUISITE DESIGNS from Marti 1921 and Merlin Heating Distributors Ltd

Marti 1921 was started close to Rieretta street in Barcelona in 1921- a firm that today remains a family company steeped in the traditions of its founder. Now a multinational company with representations in over 60 countries, Marti 1921 continues to provide product design of the highest quality. A combination of fine aesthetic design fused with the smooth movement reflects the time and thought that makes our products different from the rest. Designed with the discerning customer in mind, the family tradition is continued today by Carlos Marti, where his eye for the unusual is reflected in each design. The combinations of shape, light and reflection mirrors the creation of the water forms. The Mediterraneanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s constantly changing colour between the water and light brings a tranquillity that has been immersed in each design.

Marti 1921 are still and will remain artisan in their hearts. Merlin Heating Distributors Ltd represent Marti 1921 in both the United Kingdom and Irish markets. The company, through its Radiator BoutiqueÂŠ is expert in the supply of design quality, heating and brassware products from the largest design companies in Europe. Each product is carefully chosen for design and functionality. Marti 1921 and Merlin Heating Distributors Ltd will bring the most exciting product to customers. We will bring you a range of products to suit your taste and desire. Our team will assist you with the complete range available and direct you to where you can see the products in real time. We will be pleased to assist you on a one to one basis to ensure you receive the best advice during your selection process.

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Please contact us at our UK Sales office for further assistance or to request a catalogue: Tel: +44 (0) 121 515 5901 - sales@merlinhd.com www.theradiatorboutique.com Export Department, Madrid, Avda, Manoteras 30 Tel: +34 917 211 135 - export@marti1921.com Central - Barcelona - C. Victor Hugo 4, BL.C - S. Cugat Del Valles Tel: +34 935 844 810 - Info@marti1921.com

marti1921.com 87

BeoLab 18, BeoLab 19 and BeoVision 11 television

Bang & Olufsen of Leamington Spa makes some noise for its pioneering new sound Bang & Olufsen of Leamington Spa is celebrating the arrival of a new dimension in wireless sound that will revolutionise the listening experience of the region’s audiophiles. The long-established retailer has recently welcomed Bang & Olufsen’s new Immaculate Wireless Sound to its Regent Street showroom. Debuting in the distinctive new BeoLab 17 and BeoLab 18 loudspeakers and stylish BeoLab 19 subwoofer, BeoLab 19

GREAT MUSIC DESERVES BANG & OLUFSEN BEOLAB 18 EXPERIENCE IN STORE NOW

Bang & Olufsen introduces a new range of wireless speakers featuring: • astounding acoustic performance • uncompromising design and craftsmanship • technical innovation Audition the new wireless speakers at our store and prepare to be amazed. Bang & Olufsen of Leamington Spa 78 Regent Street, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire CV32 4NS Tel: 01926 881500 Email: leamingtonspa@bang-olufsen.co.uk Web: www.bang-olufsen.com/leamingtonspa

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.

Brian Barnes, Charley Hull, Tony Jacklin CBE, Len Goodman, Ian Woosnam OBE & Sam Torrance 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: 02476 466 174 Nailcote Hall, Nailcote Lane, Berkswell, Warwickshire, CV7 7DE Facsimile: 02476 470720 • Email: info@nailcotehall.co.uk • www.nailcotehall.co.uk

With over twenty years of performing as a professional pianist, Adrian Dixon is the ideal entertainer for events parties, weddings and corporate functions across the nation. Currently one of the resident pianists and singers at Jools Holland’s The Jamhouse in Birmingham, Adrian also regularly performs at both The Dorchester Hotel and The Savoy Hotel, providing purely live performances for guests to add an extra touch of class and elegance to the venue.

With his own high quality portable sound system and piano, including his own portable baby grand piano, Adrian can assemble and set up his equipment in a matter of minutes. Creating a highly sophisticated atmosphere to events and functions.

Playing a multitude of styles, Adrian enjoys almost every genre of music and is happy to cater to a client’s needs and play any requests or favourite songs during their special occasion. With a wealth of experience touring the country with the likes of Sugarbeat Traffic and Bad Manners, Dixon has also played alongside Jools Holland in his ‘Duelling Pianos’ act as well as both Bill Bailey and Eddie Izzard at the Edinburgh Festival.

A consummate professional, Dixon holds public liability insurance cover and all of Adrian’s equipment is PAT tested. A member of the Entertainment Union Equity for over fifteen years, Adrian works towards the improvement of representation and conditions of employment for artist covering all performance spectrums, proving testament to his passion for the entertainment industry.

Adrian has the ability to combine with other artists to create compelling duos, such as an upbeat drummer and pianist act for a lively and energetic accompaniment, or a more classical vocalist partnership with the likes of Caron Pascoe.

Drawing inspiration from greats of the music industry including Frank Sinatra, Robbie Williams, Dean Martin and Queen, Adrian is a highly accomplished entertainer with a portfolio of performances in some of the most prestigious venues in the country.

Perfect for weddings, parties and corporate functions, Adrian will ensure your event is a wonderful success and highlight the quality of a live performer compared to a simple backing track, an attribute guests are sure to notice and appreciate. To book Adrian Dixon for your event, simply contact Jack Hayes at Champions (UK) plc on 08453 31 30 31

www.adriandixon.biz

FINE DINING GUIDE

INSPIRATIONAL

FINE DINING GUIDE

Here at Inspirational Magazine we love any chance to talk about fine food, so when we had the opportunity recently to broach the subject with the man dubbed the ‘Nation’s Favourite French Chef’, Jean-Christophe Novelli, we positively jumped at the chance. Drawing on his peerless culinary wisdom, we have lovingly prepared this essential fine dining guide to showcase some of the finest West Midlands eateries and to let you know where exactly to find the very best food this summer. The region’s restaurant scene is in rude health indeed. We feature the renowned Cielo, an understated, chic venue offering modern interpretations of Italian classics and put Asha’s contemporary Indian cuisine under the spotlight. We take a closer look at what is cooking at The Mailbox this year, cast a net over Finest Catch’s retro diner experience and explore the Anglo-French influences on show at Edmunds in Birmingham. There are plenty more on the list but, suffice it to say, no matter where you look, it is going to be a vintage summer for West Midlands foodies. If you are looking too for inspiration on the home front, here is a great seasonal suggestion from Jean-Christophe’s latest book, Simply Novelli. s Simply Novelli Main

s de Pomme Cabillaud au Juh Loin of Cod wit uction ed Apple Juice R n I was a s to Normandy whe

ired by trip g such This dish was insp t can be made usin various dishes tha young man and the the apple. a versatile fruit like Serves: 4 10 minutes Preparation Time: minutes Cooking Time: 40

Ingredients

4 x 175g cod loin rapeseed oil 2 tbsp extra virgin 1 tsp curry powder 1 tsp cumin seeds

) 7 shallots (finely sliced few sprigs thyme pepper a little ground black (to taste)

ed) 2 cloves garlic (crush 120ml dry apple juice (chopped) ey parsl af flat-le 1 tbsp ped) 1 tbsp tarragon (chop olive oil 3 tbsp extra virgin

eed oil) (or extra virgin rapes

s 1 tbsp mustard seedrd) (or wholegrain musta e 200g crème fraîch 1 tsp honey

Method

the rapeseed For The Cod pan, with a lid. Heat Preheat a heavy based and cumin seeds. Stir the spices er oil with the curry powd down. the pan, skin-side into cod the and place pan, then add red shallots into the . Add half of the prepa er and crushed garlic the thyme, black pepp - making with a tight fitting lid cover and over fish Turn the for about 5 minutes, Heat hot. very is have sure the pan juice. Once the juices apple the of then pour in 60ml 5 minutes, dn’t take longer than reduced, which shoul the shallots. with along pan the remove the fish from ilm. and cover with clingf Transfer to a plate

e To Prepare The Sauc on over the ed parsley and tarrag a Sprinkle the chopp with the olive oil in and leave to infuse remaining shallots juice into the pan the remaining apple sauté pan, then pour the fish juices Drain ard. in the must the ce and heat gently. Stir Redu pan. add these to the from the plate and e fraîche and the stirring in the crèm (so that it coats cooking liquor by half, tion is nice and thick honey once the reduc ). spoon a of the back looks and dish The pan. hot to the Return the fish back the pan. d hot, straight from smells fantastic serve

Chef ’s Tip

ly pressed Use good quality, fresh the sugar apple juice as a better te crea help will content tasting sauce.

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

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

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“He breaks all the rules but when you share a kitchen with Novelli, you’re in the presence of a genius” Tessa Boase, The Telegraph

ASHAS Birmingham

Having just welcomed its 500,000th diner since it opened a little over seven years ago, Ashas Contemporary Bar and 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 five 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, Ashas 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 five star hotels across India, ensuring they have authentic proven talent. They’re then taken to Dubai to be trained in the style of Ashas before making their way to Birmingham, a journey that ends with a taste experience that’s second to none.

In addition to the lounge bar and restaurant area, Ashas is the perfect destination for Private Dining with three wonderful rooms that can be used for both corporate and social occasions. Exciting new dining packages have just been launched with menus being tailored to meet the needs of individual organisers. Always one to reward their regular guests, they have also launched their very first International 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 and complimentary use of the meeting facilities on week days… amongst other benefits! With various menus offering great choices for lunch and in the 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!

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. The discreetly placed awards cabinet pays homage to Ashas accolades, the restaurant last December was included in the prestigious Sunday Times ‘Top 130’ Restaurants in the UK for under £50 per head. It has been included in the Michelin Guide consistently from 2009 to 2014, 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. Food served: Monday to Wednesday

Thursday to Friday

Saturday Sunday

Lunch: 12.00noon - 2.30pm Dinner 5.30pm - 10.30pm Bar: 5.00pm Lunch: 12.00pm - 2.30pm Dinner 5.30pm - 11.00pm Bar: 5.00pm Dinner 5.00pm - 11.00pm Dinner: 5.00pm - 10.00pm

Ashas Edmund House, 12-22 Newhall Street, Birmingham B3 3LX Tel: 0121 200 2767 www.ashasuk.co.uk

FINE DINING GUIDE

INSPIRATIONAL

cielo

FINE 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.

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. Opening times: Monday - Thursday: 12-3pm & 5.30 - 11pm Friday & Saturday: 12 - 11pm Sun: 12 - 10pm Sunday lunch menu available: 12 - 7pm

Fixed menu available: Monday - Thursday: 12 - 3pm & 5.30 - 7pm Fri - Sat: 12 - 7pm

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. 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. 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 £14.95 for two courses

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

EDMUNDS RESTAURANT Birmingham French Fine Dining

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, draped in taupe and black curtains with views overlooking Brindleyplace. Edmunds is available to be hired for exclusive use, 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

FINE DINING GUIDE

INSPIRATIONAL

FINE DINING GUIDE

RED PEPPERS

SIMPSONS RESTAURANT

PURNELL’S

The Mailbox, Birmingham

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.

Offering a diverse array of flavours from around the globe, Red Peppers at The Mailbox is an inviting environment for cuisine savvy diners to cherry-pick their favourite tastes, enjoy their meals and relax in a classy and vibrant venue. With favourites on the menu including Asian inspired dishes, such as Thai Chicken Curry or Sesame Crusted Salmon, guests at Red Peppers can sample dishes they may never have encountered before, or simply savour some of the restaurant’s delicious classic dishes in the form of Ribs, Mexican Burritos and Enchiladas. The light and airy restaurant at Red Peppers creates the perfect atmosphere to showcase the skilled chefs’ talents and expertise. An ideal destination for an early supper with the whole family, Red Peppers’ child friendly menu ensures everyone at the table has a dish they will adore. The luxurious experience delivered at Red Peppers also represents fantastic value for money, with an eclectic mix of lunchtime dining solutions including succulent pastas, short crust pizzas, sandwiches, wraps and delectable soups.

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.

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. 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.

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.

Monday - Sunday 12.00noon till late

Food Served: Lunch: 12.00noon - 2.00pm. Monday to Saturday Dinner: every day 7.00pm - 9.30pm

Tuesday to Friday lunch 12.00noon - 4.30pm (Last orders 1.30pm) Tuesday to Saturday dinner 7.00pm - 1.00am (Last orders, 9.30pm, licensed until midnight) Sundays & Mondays Closed

Red Peppers 117 Wharfside Street, The Mailbox, Birmingham B1 1RF Tel: (0121) 643 4202 www.red-peppers.co.uk

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

Featuring a private reservation area downstairs with a capacity for 100 guests, Red Peppers is an ideal venue to host parties and functions with benefit of Red Peppers’ hospitable staff being on hand to help with proceedings.

THE STAG AT OFFCHURCH

THE MOORINGS AT MYTON

THE FOREST AT FECKENHAM

Leamington Spa

Redditch

Ever since The Moorings at Myton underwent an imaginative and stylish £250,000 makeover in 2010, the canal side pub and kitchen has been revitalised to become one of the West Midlands’ favourite dining destinations.

The Forest at Feckenham completes the trio of exceptional dining pubs across three counties serving quality food at affordable prices. Award-winning restaurateur Charles Harris added The Forest to his already impressive portfolio and like The Stag and The Moorings, he has ensured it has been renovated to the highest standard.

In a historical village on the outskirts of Leamington Spa, The Stag at Offchurch is a 16th century thatched pub serving top quality Anglo-French cuisine in a relaxed and informal setting. One of the most popular dining pubs in the region, The Stag draws people from across the country who come to sample the delicious food prepared with flair and style. Separating the two restaurants, the informal lounge is modern and cosy and is the perfect place to relax with a drink before dinner. The Stag conservatory is ideal for intimate dining experiences, private parties and small wedding receptions. All of the food is prepared by the team of chefs using the best possible ingredients. The team purchase from local growers and take pride in selecting fresh produce from the local market each week. Complementing the food menu, the comprehensive wine list includes fine wine from around the world. The professional and passionate team take pride in providing exceptional service and a world-class dining experience. The award-winning Stag at Offchurch is certainly not one to be missed.

The welcoming bar and restaurant have been decorated in a relaxed New England style, creating a warm and friendly ambience. The bar area is particularly innovative with a spectacular glass-fronted cellar displaying wines from around the world. On the upper level of the two-floor restaurant, guests can enjoy picturesque views of the canal and Leamington Spa. The Moorings is dedicated to creating locally sourced, hearty meals prepared with care and attention. The restaurant is particularly famed for its prime steaks, dry-aged to a minimum of 28 days and presented on wooden boards. Executive Chef Nigel Brown was part of Raymond Blanc’s team which opened Le Petit Blanc brasseries in Birmingham and Manchester, and has been instrumental in creating a menu that is imaginative and innovative.

The contemporary bar and lounge are decorated with forest-wall murals, earthy tones and subtle lighting to create a distinctive theme. The team at The Forest are proud of the excellent service and warm hospitality provided to each and every one of their customers. Head Chef Tom Robinson has created a comprehensive menu specialising in Anglo-French cuisine that is certainly worth exploring. After finishing one of the delicious main courses, the range of indulgent homemade desserts is the perfect way to finish the meal.

Food Served: Monday to Friday: 12.00pm - 2.30pm & 6.00pm - 9.30pm Saturday: 12.00noon -3.00pm & 6.00pm - 10.00pm Sunday: 12.00noon - 3.30pm & 6.00pm - 9.00pm

Food Served: Monday to Thursday: 12.00noon -2:30pm & 6.00pm - 9.30pm Friday & Saturday: 12.00noon - 3.00pm & 6.00pm - 10.00pm Sunday: 12.00noon - 3:30pm & 6.00pm - 9.00pm

Food Served: Monday to Friday: 12.00noon - 2.30pm & 6.00pm-9.30pm Saturday: 12.00noon - 3.00pm & 6.00pm - 10.00pm Sunday: 12.00noon - 3.30pm & 6.00pm - 9.00pm

The Stag at Offchurch Welsh Road, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire CV33 9AQ Tel: (01926) 425 801 Email: info@thestagatoffchurch.com www.thestagatoffchurch.com

The Moorings at Myton Myton Road, Leamington Spa CV31 3NY Tel: (01926) 425 043 Email: info@themoorings.co.uk www.themoorings.co.uk

The Forest at Feckenham 1 Droitwich Road, Feckenham, Redditch, Worcestershire B96 6JE Tel: 01527 894 422 Email: info@theforestatfeckenham.co.uk www.theforestatfeckenham.com

FINE DINING GUIDE

INSPIRATIONAL

FINE DINING GUIDE

WHITTLE’S RESTAURANT Audley

Situated within the magnificent Binswood Hall, just a few minutes’ walk from Royal Leamington Spa’s Regency shopping Parade, Whittle’s Restaurant is a wonderful new culinary destination in the area.

Alongside Whittle’s, Audley also offers the Lounge Bar. Open from 8am to 11pm, the Lounge Bar serves a lighter menu alongside the opportunity to take Afternoon Tea of the highest quality.

Named in honour of Sir Frank Whittle, a former pupil of Binswood Hall, inventor of the jet engine and pioneer of modern day transport, Whittle’s is housed in a sympathetically restored Victorian Gothic Hall full of decorative charm and intrigue. With a large vaulted ceiling acting as a focal point to the restaurant, diners are treated to a classy atmosphere, wonderfully selected furniture and design features.

Filled with passionate and knowledgeable staff, Whittle’s restaurant is a welcoming and pleasant environment where people who enjoy food can experience hospitality at its finest. Relax, sit back and savour all that Whittle’s has to offer. With the option of private hire, Whittle’s is an ideal location for corporate and social hospitality. Comfortably seating 50 but able to host 60 standing guests with a buffet arrangement, diners will enjoy Whittle’s renowned culinary expertise whilst enjoying the superbly designed and decorated venue to themselves.

Using a range of suppliers from Warwickshire and the surrounding area, Head Chef Luciano Catalinotto will be producing seasonal and contemporary dishes that will be served in the warm and friendly ambience of Whittle’s. Taking inspiration from a variety of cuisines from around the globe, Whittle’s has an array of dishes suitable to all tastes and preferences.

Located at Audley Binswood retirement village, guests can take advantage of the nearby Leamington Shopping Parade and enjoy some retail therapy either before or after their meal. Thursday to Saturday - 6.00pm to 9.30pm Lounge Bar Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday - 8.00am to 11.00pm Whittle’s Restaurant Binswood Hall, Binswood Avenue, Leamington Spa CV32 5SE Tel: 01926 258 088 www.whittlesrestaurant.co.uk

FINEST CATCH

Henley-in-Arden

Tipton

Shirley

The newest branch of Finest Catch in Shirley has become an instant success, attracting an increasing number of satisfied customers who come for the exceptional service and first-class fish and chips. With a fully licensed bar, customers can choose from a full drinks menu offering something everyone can enjoy with their food such as beers, wines and soft drinks. 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.

Finest Catch is an innovative chain of restaurants that is committed to providing quality fish and chips at affordable prices. The original branch of Finest Catch in Henley-in-Arden opened in 2012 and immediately captured the public’s imagination, turning it into an overnight success. Styled on a 1950’s American Diner, the interior of the restaurant is quite spectacular and adds to the warm and inviting atmosphere. Receiving rave review after rave review about the value, service and exceptional food, Finest Catch has become one of the most popular dining destinations in the region.

The Tipton branch of Finest Catch was opened after the runaway success of the Henley-in-Arden branch and follows the same formula that has made Finest Catch one of the region’s favourite restaurants. With 250 seats and ample parking spaces, the restaurant is accessible to all. 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! Finest Catch is about providing a fantastic overall dining experience and more than delivers every time.

Food Served: 12.00noon -10.00pm Seven days a week

Food Served: 12.00noon - 10.00pm Seven days a week

Food Served: 12.00noon -10.00pm Seven days a week

Finest Catch Birmingham Road, Henley-in-Arden B95 5QR Tel: 01564 793783 www.finestcatch.co.uk

Finest Catch High Street, Princes End, Tipton DY4 9JF Tel: 0121 557 0486 www.finestcatch.co.uk

Finest Catch 1097 Stratford Road, Shirley B90 4ED Tel: 0121 557 0486 www.finestcatch.co.uk

FINE DINING GUIDE

DINING at THE ORIENTAL

Ranked as one of the Top Five Restaurants in Birmingham by Glamour Magazine as well as one of the Top Ten Pan-Asian Restaurants in the UK by The Times, The Oriental at The Mailbox is the culinary destination for anyone passionate about getting an authentic taste of the East. With an extensive menu of over 100 Chinese, Thai and Malaysian dishes, everyone who visits The Oriental is guaranteed to find a dish they will adore. Situated along the canal, The Oriental is ideal for enjoying lunch with colleagues, friends or family. Available every day between 12pm-5pm, The Oriental offers the best value in town, whilst the Asian themed décor and passionate staff guarantee a friendly welcome every time. The Oriental is also one of the premier bars in Birmingham, serving wine, Champagne and bespoke premium quality cocktails made from fresh ingredients. Relax with your refreshment in the warm and inviting ambience of The Oriental and enjoy a highly professional fine dining experience in one of Birmingham’s most revered venues. Providing an insight into Asian cuisine, The Oriental is open every night until late, delivering an extensive and diverse menu to sample with your companions. With diners typically ordering a number of dishes to try in order to taste a selection of the region’s flavours, anyone who visits The Oriental will be left in awe of the intricate style and piquancy the restaurant’s chefs produce.

Inspirational visits three restaurants at The Mailbox...

CÔTE BRASSERIE

BAR ESTILO

Offering a truly modern approach to classic French dishes, Côte Brasserie is one of the most popular places to eat at The Mailbox. With a menu featuring steak frites, Tuna Niçoise and corn fed chicken from the Languedoc, Côte Brasserie is one of Birmingham’s hidden gems providing a high quality dining experience at very affordable prices.

Delivering the Mediterranean to The Mailbox, Bar Estilo delivers the sumptuous flavours and relaxed dining experience of European cuisine. Styled with a North African inspired décor, the warm and cosy ambience of Bar Estilo is the ideal place to sit back with a refreshing cocktail or jug of sangria amongst friends and enjoy watching the world go by.

Emulating popular modern Parisian bistros, Côte Brasserie focuses on the simple yet elegant cooking techniques of French cuisine to create appetising dishes to be enjoyed with friends and family alike. Situated in a waterside location, the Côte Brasserie’s relaxed and informal environment makes for an ideal atmosphere to enjoy a late lunch in true Gallic style.

With a menu that recognises highlights of both Mediterranean and Moroccan flavours, diners at Bar Estilo can choose from Chorizos, Coquetas and Tortillas, whilst also sampling the spiced delights of a Lamb Tagine and Butternut Squash. Alongside the extensive variety of tapas, there is a range of Paellas to highlight the best of Spain, creating a wonderful shared dining event.

The traditional French décor and friendly staff highlight the cosy and welcoming feel of Côte Brasserie. Backed by Richard Caring, owner of some of the nation’s most critically acclaimed restaurants including The Ivy, Le Caprice and J Sheekey, Côte Brasserie has established a resurgence in interest of uncomplicated French cookery prepared to perfection.

Bar Estilo is the perfect destination to meet up with colleagues, friends and family and enjoy the stylish atmosphere in one of The Mailbox’s most renowned restaurants. With a fantastic terrace to be enjoyed on a warm summer’s eve, the sofa seating area is the perfect place to unwind after a hectic day’s shopping.

Open all day from 8am during the week and 9am on weekends, Côte Brasserie offers breakfast, lunch and dinner, allowing any diner to imagine themselves in the busy backstreets of the French capital whenever they desire.

Make sure you leave room for dessert in order to savour Bar Estilo’s traditional Spanish Santiago Almond Tart or Churros with a succulent Chocolate Sauce. Open until late every evening, Bar Estilo is the complete venue for anyone who likes to relish the very best cuisine from one of the most vibrant and exciting regions of the culinary world.

Monday to Sunday 12.00 noon till late

Monday to Sunday 10.00am till late

Monday to Sunday 12.oo noon till late

The Oriental 128-130 Wharfside Street, The Mailbox, Birmingham B1 1RQ Tel: 0121 633 9988 www.theoriental.uk.com

Côte Brasserie 120-122 Wharfside Street, The Mailbox, Birmingham B1 1RQ Tel: 0121 631 1587 www.cote-restaurants.co.uk

Bar Estilo 110-114 Wharfside Street, The Mailbox, Birmingham B1 1RF Tel: 0121 643 3443 www.barestilo.co.uk

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Complimentary parking. When you shop, dine or get pampered.

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

CHAMPIONS Championing the West Midlands

Inspirational Magazine is celebrating its second birthday this edition and Champions (UK) plc, the team behind the publication, has enjoyed unprecedented success in the West Midlands since its launch. Dedicating ourselves to showcasing the very best of the West Midlands and featuring the finest products and services, and we became an instant hit with readers when we launched in 2012. Inspirational Magazine provided the perfect launchpad for Champions (UK) plc to showcase their unique skills to the West Midlands. Champions (UK) plc is a unique brand agency, combining five in-house departments: PR, Marketing, Creative, Events and Celebrity. Matthew Hayes, Managing Director of Champions (UK) plc, commented “We have enjoyed some remarkable success in the West Midlands over the last two years and Inspirational Magazine has played a central role in this. We are delighted to be working alongside so many local businesses, providing our range of services to them, as well as creating some fantastic events.” Champions (UK) plc established the Champions Club to provide unique networking opportunities for many of the West Midlands’ leading businesses. Throughout the year, representatives of each company are invited to a range of high-profile events, helping to promote enterprise and create a strong, tightly-knit business community. Champions (UK) plc also organised a testimonial for celebrated Warwickshire cricket captain Jim Troughton in 2013, welcoming fellow professionals Ian Bell MBE and Jonathan Trott to Edgbaston. The first annual Birmingham Sports Awards was launched by Champions (UK) plc in 2013, providing an opportunity to celebrate the city’s greatest sporting achievements of the last year. The event attracted sponsorship from many of the region’s leading businesses and will be returning later this year. The buzz has been so strong that sponsorship has already sold out this year as companies queue up to associate themselves with such a positive and influential event in the community. Champions (UK) plc will be official event organisers of the inaugural Coventry Sports Awards, a brand new event that will showcase more talent from the West Midlands. Sponsorship is selling quickly and Virgin Trains has already been announced as headline sponsor. Paul Whittingham, Virgin Trains Lead Executive, said “Virgin Trains is proud to be both headline sponsor and Community Award sponsor of the Coventry Sports Awards.” “With three trains per hour to and from Coventry, the city is a key destination for us and we’re grateful for the chance to further contribute to the vibrant community it serves. There’s a vast wealth of sporting talent coming out of this part of the country and these awards play an important role in recognising that talent and encouraging more of the same. To be a part of an event which celebrates hard work, commitment and passion – values which are so important to us – is genuinely inspiring.” As Champions (UK) plc’s presence in the West Midlands continues to grow, Inspirational Magazine will be at the heart of its expansion, showcasing the best of the region to an ever-growing audience.

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THE FROZEN FOOD SPECIALISTS

WEST MIDLANDS JIM TROUGHTON

CREATIVE

EVENTS

IAN BELL MBE JONATHAN TROTT

CELEBRITY

CHAMPIONS MARKETING

A variety of sponsorship opportunities for the Coventry Sports Awards are still available. For more information, or to see how we can boost your brand, please Email Sophia Hayes shayes@championsukplc.com or call Champions (UK) plc on 08453 31 30 31.

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BUSINESS AND FINANCE

Representing a group of some of the West Midlands’ most influential businesses... The Champions Club offers an annual array of exciting events for leading professionals to enjoy. Providing a platform to network with likeminded individuals, members of the Champions Club are the first to react to industry developments and always possess the strongest of business relationships. Now in its second year, the 2014 Champions Club is host to a wide range of commercial sectors, spanning hospitality, jewellery, finance, branding and technology. Premium Concert Hospitality experts Amplify have over twenty years’ experience of making shows and concerts even more memorable. Charles Mitchell Wines have pursued excellence in hand crafted wines since 1981, importing from dedicated producers from around the world. Johnsons Jewellers have enjoyed over 115 years of trading the finest jewellery and timepieces located in their exquisite Nuneaton showroom. Nestled in the heart of Warwickshire, Nailcote Hall is one of the West Midlands finest retreats, featuring a Par 3 golf course, restaurant and spa facilities. PMGC Technology Group are a leading provider of cloud and telecoms solutions in the region, creating a ‘weightless’ office for any business. St. James’s Place Wealth 104

Management build trusted relationships with clients to enhance their financial future, including investment, retirement and tax mitigation. Champions Club are delighted to welcome two new members for 2014. Audley Retirement villages offer high quality housing throughout the nation, rivalling any country house hotel. Opening Binswood in May 2014, an exclusive retirement settlement in Leamington Spa, Audley is proving its reputation as a market leader in the industry. The Belfry Hotel and Golf course has played host to the Ryder Cup on four occasions, allowing you to recreate your own golfing memories in a location that exudes luxury and exclusivity. Inspirational Magazine are the West Midland’s leading luxury lifestyle magazine, offering a definitive guide to the most significant businesses and services the West Midlands provides. Champions (UK) plc are a brand agency dedicated to providing the best creative brand management solutions in the marketplace. Utilising their five departments, Champions (UK) plc can deliver everything a business needs to gain a lucrative return on investment, from creative conceptualisation to more than 1800 diverse and exciting celebrity acts.

Organised by Champions (UK) plc, the club is meeting for five events this year, guaranteeing a tightly knit business community for the future. Kicking off with proceedings in June, the club will meet at Nailcote Hall for a Par 3 Golf Day. Set to be fantastic day to play alongside colleagues and peers, the inclusion of a celebrity in each team, clay pigeon shooting experience as well as both lunch and dinner adds the class and elegance associated with leading business in the West Midlands. July sees the Champions Club visit the LG Arena with Amplify to watch pop legend Robbie Williams. Treated to a Champagne reception upon arrival, Champions Club members will enjoy the atmosphere of the Amplify hospitality suite and network with fellow business owners before being entertained by one of the world’s most renowned performers. The next meeting of Champions Club members will be at Audley Binswood, Leamington Spa. Accompanied by

revered tenor Laurence Robinson, the evening will be an opportunity to showcase the new five star hotel services with both a Champagne reception and world-class food tasting session. The penultimate event of the year celebrates one of the nation’s favourite television shows, The X Factor. Assembling at Gillian Wesley Design, the Champions Club invites The X Factor and Eurovision star Andy Abraham to give a private and exclusive performance to guests. Club members will enjoy a first-class seat to watch the star in an intimate environment. Combined with a Champagne reception and delicious food courtesy of the Catwalk Café, this experience is synonymous with the exclusive group of leading businesses that are compiled in the Champions Club.

an expertly selected plethora of fine wines and champagne. The final chance to network and discuss business with other Champions Club members, the evening is set to be a resounding success and a celebration of the unique opportunities being part of the Champions Club offers. Beside from the opportune moments to network and build strong relationships, the Champions Club is the perfect platform to invite guests to a tailored event organised purely by Champions (UK) plc. Experts of putting on a show, Champions (UK) plc has over ten years of delivering the finest events and hospitality in the nation. Joining the Champions Club allows you to benefit from Champions’ expertise whilst enabling you to create the strongest of business platforms to secure your ongoing commercial success in the region.

Finishing the Champions Club year in style, members will be attending a wine and champagne extravaganza thanks to Charles Mitchell Wines at The Belfry Hotel. Hosted by Willie Thorne with music by Anthony Kinsey, guests will be treated to a four course dinner filled with

If you believe the Champions Club is of interest to you and your company, Champions (UK) plc would be delighted to welcome you to our exclusive club. To enquire further contact Champions’ Sales & Advertising Manager Sophia Hayes by email: shayes@championsukplc.com or by telephone: 0845 31 30 31.

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BUSINESS AND FINANCE

TIGERS BITE BACK Neil Back MBE teams up with Neil Fletcher to join Adelphi

Since retiring from rugby, former England and Leicester Tigers flanker, Neil Back MBE has not rested on his laurels for one minute. With three World Cups including the 2003 victory, back-to-back Heineken Cups, 66 international caps and three Lions tours under his belt he would have been excused a period of rest and recuperation, but Neil has never seen that as an option. Staying in the game initially, Back used the same energy and drive that characterised his on-field play to enjoy successful coaching spells at the Tigers, Leeds Carnegie, the Rugby Lions and Edinburgh but in recent times he has now chosen to return to his business roots as a Director of Adelphi Special Risks Ltd. Few people are aware that before becoming a rugby professional he built a career over a nine year period as a Pensions Manager at AXA Equity & Law and now, in a way reminiscent of every tackle he ever made, he’s getting stuck right in again. Neil has teamed up with his former Tigers teammate, Neil Fletcher, to take responsibility for new business development and existing client relationship management at Midlands based Adelphi Special Risks, a boutique Insurance and Risk Management intermediary with extensive experience in protecting the interests of domestic, overseas and global clients. Adelphi specialise in assessing risk from a technical perspective and mitigating its impacts by tailoring their services to the precise needs of its clients. They understand that, for individuals, material possessions represent so much more than their financial value as they inform their personal identities and often become integral components of their lifestyles. It is with this insight that they set about pinpointing a client’s singular level of risk aversion and therefore the extent to which they are exposed. Getting a handle on these variables provides the key to Adelphi’s unique, specialist service. The Managing Director of Adelphi, Damon Blakey, who himself has over 15 years of experience in the industry, explained the broker’s offering to Aspirational magazine. “This is a boutique business which is very much advice and service driven. We will look to provide face-to-face bespoke solutions for clients rather than a standard transactional, one-size-fits-all model.”

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Often insurance policies are constricted and all too formulaic. Adelphi work differently, creating and identifying policies made to measure for a client rather than forcing tough criteria on a client, who then has to compromise on the way they wish to go about their life. They design and arrange suites of policies aimed at protecting those lifestyle choices and cover everything from property portfolios to prestige car collections, from treasured heirlooms to high value jewellery or from yachts and aircraft to all aspects of luxury travel. Having worked attentively with their clients from the outset, Adelphi complete the circle by way of their innovative ‘Claims Concierge’ service. Damon sees such bespoke sets of policies as requiring a fresh approach to claims resolution and is committed to maintaining the company’s personal and personalised modus operandi. Motoring claims, for example, can crop up easily so Adelphi deal with full insurer notification, arrange for the client’s own preferred garage to carry out repairs and source and hire like-for-like temporary replacement vehicles. They also look to capture any third party claimant in the event of an ‘own fault loss’, helping reduce any claims costs against their client’s policy. They pay attention to the smallest details and go that extra mile. True to the same philosophy, the senior management retains active client contact, which ensures their strong empathy for, and deep understanding of, their clients’ evolving needs and allows the business to react quickly to change. This is precisely the quality that sets Adelphi apart from its contemporaries and the territory in which Neil Back comes into his own. His old scrum-mate and Adelphi Director, Neil Fletcher, described what the World Cup winner brings to the client relationship role. “Bringing ‘Backy’ on-board, with his commitment to world class performance, helps us maintain our focus on client-centred service and his ability and willingness to build relationships and understand clients’ needs has already proved invaluable to us.” If his rugby career is anything to go by, Adelphi, can expect from Neil Back relentless performances, characterised by verve and charisma, and the dogged pursuit of his goals.

Neil Back MBE Director

Neil Fletcher Director

To find out more about how Adelphi Special Risks can help you with bespoke insurance packages, visit www.adelphispecialrisks.co.uk

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While many businesses struggled during the economic downturn, Champions (UK) plc has continued to go from strength to strength since its establishment in 2003. With five unique in-house departments working in harmony, the company provides its clients with comprehensive services to boost their brand and provide bottom line results. The recession significantly affected businesses in a wide variety of sectors and it took something special to weather the storm and continue to trade strongly. Champions (UK) plc was one of the companies that managed this feat and was named in The Sunday Times’ ‘Fast Track 100’ for being one of the most rapidly growing businesses in the UK. Individual expertise in PR, marketing, creative, events and celebrity management gives Champions (UK) plc the edge over companies that only specialise in one niche area. Traditionally, when businesses look at their branding they call in a media buying agency, a separate digital marketing company, a separate PR agency and a sampling agency – various different teams and persons to manage as well as brief, all vying for extra budget from the client.

one of the most rapidly growing businesses in the UK

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One of the central principles of Champions (UK) plc is to make life as easy as possible for their clients. Businesses go exclusively to Champions (UK) plc instead of relying on a different company for each service, increasing efficiency and reducing costs. Rather than closing themselves off, Champions (UK) plc is proud to have a range of clients, both large and small, utilising each of their departments to give them the best overall results. Champions (UK) plc was founded by Midlands-born Matthew Hayes, along with his parents, in 2003. Setting up a stronghold in the heart of the Nottinghamshire countryside, Matthew wanted to outshine other agencies in the industry, offering something that was completely unique. Today, the firm boasts some of the country’s biggest brands amongst its various clients, including frozen foods specialists Farmfoods, thermal sock brand Heat Holders and leading e-cigarette company multiCIG.

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PUBLIC RELATIONS

MARKETING

CELEBRITY

CREATIVE

EVENTS

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

Matthew explained the benefits of Champions (UK) plc’s streamlined approach: “Utilising various channels under one roof means that we can effectively identify, create and deliver a brand’s key messaging and then distribute it to all channels at once. Having this managed all from one place means it is more cost effective, maximising return on investment.” Champions (UK) plc is a local East Midlands business at heart, but it also boasts a national, and even global, reach. Over 10 years ago, when many businesses were looking to establish themselves in the ever-expanding metropolis of London, Champions (UK) plc bucked the trend and committed itself to remaining in the East Midlands. Today, the company continues to benefit from its central location, and attracts an ever-growing client base from up and down the country. As modern technology and the internet continues to play an increasingly important role in business and our lives in general, Champions (UK) plc continue to keep on top of trends. They have a dedicated social media team who look after a range of accounts and push the brands they manage out to a wide audience of followers.

“...we can effectively identify, create & deliver a brand’s key messaging & then distribute it to all channels at once.”

Matthew Hayes said: “Events has been an integral part of the business since the start and this is an area in which we are enjoying a great deal of success. Each year, more and more companies are entrusting us with the management of their event and this is testament to the exceptional quality we are offering.”

Champions (UK) plc utilises its wealth of resources Champions (UK) plc’s biggest annual event is the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship, one of golf’s fastest growing tournaments. Much more than a run-of-the-mill golf championship, the event welcomes over 10,000 guests, as well as some of the country’s biggest stars, and boasts a big garden party atmosphere. The event is solely run by Champions (UK) plc and the company utilises its wealth of resources from PR and marketing to celebrity booking and events management. Another string to Champions (UK) plc’s bow is the celebrity management side of the business. With access to some of the biggest stars in the country, Champions (UK) plc can pair the brands they represent with the celebrities they manage to create lasting partnerships that are beneficial to both parties. Some of the high-profile names on their client list include England legend Peter Shilton OBE, golfing great Tony Jacklin CBE, Ashes-winning cricketer Matthew Hoggard MBE and entertainment star Sherrie Hewson.

With an extensive list of contacts, Champions (UK) plc have booked their various acts on some of the nation’s biggest television programmes including Strictly Come Dancing, I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!, A League of their Own, A Question of Sport and 8 Out of 10 Cats. Their strong relationships with major broadcasters, publications and other media outlets ensure their celebrity clients are presented with a range of opportunities to boost their profile. With quality staff specialising in each aspect of the business, Champions (UK) plc ensure they devote equal attention to each of their departments. 2013 was a seminal year in Champions (UK) plc’s history and the company had the privilege of being named as one of the London Stock Exchange’s ‘1000 Companies to Inspire Britain’. The brand agency has continued strongly in 2014 and is projected to have another record-breaking year.

Named as one of the London Stock Exchange’s ‘1000 Companies to Inspire Britain’

Interacting with other businesses has been a central principle of Champions (UK) plc since the beginning and the events management side of the business has been crucial. Working in partnership with a range of local and national publications, the company is the chief organiser of various business and sports awards across the Midlands. Champions (UK) plc also organises business clubs that encourage interaction between companies and promote a strong, tightly-knit business community.

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

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A DV E RT I S I N G F E AT U R E

IS TH E B ABY BO O MER GE NERATI O N L O S I NG IT S L U STR E? Ageing parents and cash-strapped children are putting pressure on the finances of the baby boomers, as Heather Connon explains.

hey are called the ‘baby boomers’ because they were born during the post-war surge in births, but the ‘boomer’ epithet could equally apply to their financial position. Those born between 1945 and 1965 or so look like members of a golden generation. They have enjoyed an era in which unemployment was relatively low and jobs for life, often with generous final salary schemes, were common; an era of growing home ownership – in 1953, just 32% of people owned their own homes, half the level of 2011 (1); and an era of surging house prices – average prices in England and Wales have risen from £5,774 in 1971 to more than £233,000 in May 2013, not allowing for the effect of inflation (2).

The result is a generation heading into retirement with significant wealth. David Willetts, the Conservative MP who thinks it is time for the baby boomers to give some of their wealth back to their children, reckons that

the over-65s own more than a third of the nation’s £6.7 trillion of wealth and the over-45s more than 80%. But the new age of austerity in the wake of the financial crisis is rubbing some of the gilt off the boomer generation. Indeed, many are finding themselves being transformed into the sandwich generation as they care for elderly parents as well as continue to finance their children for far longer than has been traditional. The Pew Research Center, which has done extensive research into this phenomenon in the US, estimates that, in 2012, 15% of people aged between 40 and 59 were supporting a parent aged over 65 and at least one child, up from 12% in 2005.There are no similar statistics for the UK, but it is likely that a growing number will find themselves in that position as the economic squeeze tightens on both the young and the elderly.

Our children are already costing significantly more, but are able to contribute less. As from last September, university tuition fees effectively trebled as the government allowed annual charges of up to £9,000. Those who choose to support their children, rather than leaving them to take out loans, could therefore have to find as much as £53,000 in fees and living costs for a three-year degree (3). Even an expensive degree is no guarantee of financial security, however. Data from the Office for National Statistics shows that, at the end of 2011, 15% of those who had graduated within the previous six years were unemployed compared with 10% a decade earlier, while 36% were in low-skilled, and therefore low-paid, jobs compared with 27% in 2001.

A DV E RT I S I N G F E AT U R E

Rising house prices mean children are living at home for longer. A recent survey by Saga suggested that as many as three million over-50s had adult children living at home, and the average age of these offspring was 27. Indeed, the average age of first-time house-buyers is now 35, compared with 28 a decade ago (4). With the average house price for the entire UK now almost at £168,000 (5) – and substantially more than that in areas such as London – and mortgage lenders requiring high deposits, getting children to leave home is likely to mean parents funding deposits to help them to buy their first house. Most lenders now want deposits of 20% or more, which means £32,000 for the average-priced house. Increasing longevity and the rising costs of social care mean that elderly parents are also becoming more expensive. A couple of decades ago, baby boomers would have been looking forward to a healthy inheritance from their parents; these days, the family house may need to be sold to pay for the costs of care home fees and

other expenses, with one in ten facing a bill of £100,000, according to health secretary Jeremy Hunt in a February statement on social care funding. The richer you are, the more likely you are to face these twin costs. The Pew Research Center found that 43% of those with annual incomes of $100,000 (£67,000) or more have a living parent aged 65 or over and a dependent child, compared with just 17% of those earning less than $30,000 (£19,000). Being the filling in this sandwich is rather uncomfortable. The Pew Research Center further found that 30% of those who were supporting an elderly parent were just meeting their own basic expenses, and 11% don’t even have enough for that, while only 28% felt comfortably off. So it is no surprise that baby boomers’ view of retirement is changing.Today’s retirees can expect to live longer than any previous generation, with the life expectancy of an average man aged 65 in 2012 now 86, compared with 79 three decades ago (6). That means a phased retirement is likely

to become the norm. Indeed, figures for 2011 show that more than a fifth of men aged between 65 and 69 were still working, up from 12% in 1993, according to research by the Pensions Policy Institute, and even among those aged between 70 and 74, the figure was one in ten. The lesson is clear: far from stealing from the next generation, the baby boomers will increasingly find themselves supporting both the next and previous generations. Those who want to avoid the risks of joining the ranks of the impecunious should be carefully planning their retirement expenditure and the way they will cover it. 1. www.ons.gov.uk (April 2013) 2. www.acadametrics.co.uk (May 2013) 3. www.lv.com (August 2012) 4. www.postoffice.co.uk (September 2012) 5. www.nationwide.co.uk (May 2013) 6.www.pensionspolicyinstitute.org.uk (April 2012)

JANINE EDWARDS Senior Partner Tel: 01676 530606 Email: janine.edwards@sjpp.co.uk Web: www.janineedwards.co.uk

PA RT N E R S IN MA N AG I NG YOUR W E A LTH

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 advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The title ‘Partner’ is the marketing term used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

Beautifully restored, proudly revealed. Welcome to our luxury retirement village.

Our idea of retirement is different. At Audley, you own your home, which means you retain your highly valued independence and your asset. We look after the exterior maintenance, leaving you to enjoy the Audley Club with amenities to rival any country house hotel, including a pool, beauty treatment rooms, restaurant, lounge bar and library. Should you require extra help in the future, Audley Care can provide as little or as much support as you need. Owning a home at Audley Binswood is a great opportunity to experience a truly independent lifestyle in a beautiful and secure environment.

You’re invited to the opening of Binswood Hall. We’re delighted to invite you to the highly anticipated launch of Audley Binswood Hall. Not only can you be one of the first to take a look inside this historic hall, but you also have the opportunity to own part of it. Audley Binswood’s beautifully restored Victorian and Regency apartments in and around the hall are now ready to view. While you’re there, why not take a look around the Audley Club? The luxury health club, lounge bar and restaurant are all now open. We’d be more than happy to advise on part-exchange options too. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to live in an area of outstanding historical significance. Call us now to book your place.

Thursday 3rd and Friday 4th July 10am to 5pm

Tel: 01926 258 088 Visit: www.audleyretirement.co.uk

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MEETING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS CLASSIC HOSPITALITY WITH A MODERN IN A GREAT CITY CENTRE LOCATION

A range of stylish and flexible meeting spaces, teamed with cutting edge technology and a specialist team, have been brought together at The Auden Rooms.

The dedicated business and events floor extends across one floor of Hotel La Tour in Birmingham city centre, providing a dedicated environment for meetings, conferences, training and other corporate events.

The hotel is a short walk from Selfridges and the Bullring, neighbouring the new City Park and Millennium Point, close to Moor Street Station and a ten minute walk from New Street Station.

Hotel La Tour Managing Director, Jane Schofield, said: “Designing The Auden Rooms from the ground up has allowed us to provide specialist facilities built with today’s market in mind. We’ve responded to calls to provide dedicated meeting spaces and recruited a customer-focused team to ensure our clients’ events run smoothly and they can see a return on their investment with us.”

It has also become a firm favourite on the afternoon tea circuit with its elegant High Tea at La Tour which offers a return to elegance with a smorgasbord of afternoon savouries and sweet treats served on eye-catching three tiered silver stands. Initially launched as part of a ‘Best of British’ season to celebrate HRH the Queen’s diamond jubilee and the sporting triumphs of London 2012, High Tea proved such a hit it is now served every day, and with a tinkling piano accompaniment at the weekend.

With its own private parking area, The Auden Rooms features a stylish Business Lounge where delegates are met by event hosts. Refreshments are served in breakout areas throughout the day; event organisers can choose from a buffet-style conference lunch or dining at Aalto, the hotel’s brasserie-style restaurant which serves classic British dishes with a modern twist. The largest conference rooms can accommodate up to 120 delegates theatre style and The Auden Rooms can be booked for private dining events for up to 100 people. High-spec acoustic walling ensures you won’t be disturbed or overheard and all rooms have natural daylight, HD screens, wireless and wired internet access and touchscreen remote controls for temperature, blinds and lighting. The Auden Rooms also has a roof terrace, executive boardrooms and video conferencing facilities for up to four destinations on large HD screens.

A GREAT LOCATION FOR INFORMAL MEETINGS With its enviable location and chic interiors, Alvar Bar at Hotel La Tour makes for a great place for informal meetings. Lounge hosts ensure you are seated in the perfect location whether you’re catching up with colleagues, meeting clients or simply need some time away from the office.

A common theme running through all the hotel’s operations is the ambition to deliver five star service. Jane Schofield explained: “For us, it starts with recruitment. We invest a lot of time and resource into finding the right people to be on our team. We take care of all our employees and in return they take care of our customers. It’s a simple premise but it works. Our aim is to deliver an outstanding and memorable experience for all.” And that applies to the person who walks in from the street to ask for directions, the doting dad who’s looking for a chic wedding venue for his modern daughter and her partner, the all-girl party on a shopping and pamper break or the MD who needs a smart venue for his annual conference.

ABOUT HOTEL LA TOUR Hotel La Tour is a luxury, four star hotel in Birmingham city centre. It is independently owned and operated by a small team, dedicated to providing excellent customer service. In addition to The Auden Rooms conference and events floor, the hotel has 174 bedrooms and suites, a brasserie style restaurant, cocktail and lounge bar, and gym.

The bar offers a great menu to take you from breakfast to brunch, through to lunch, afternoon tea, after-work drinks and beyond. Log onto the free wifi, order from the drinks list and maybe indulge in a succulent sausage sandwich or try a delightfully light sponge cake while you wait for your guest to arrive. New for informal lunches is a range of flatbreads, ideal for sharing.

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

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HEAT HOLDERS Warming up Global Retail Heat Holders, a thermal sock brand whose name was scarcely known across its founding town of Leicester five years ago, is now widely recognised across the globe. Heat Holders socks were devised in 2006, the brainchild of David and Shane Doughty â&#x20AC;&#x201C; father and son hosiery moguls in Leicester and Bolton respectively.

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At the time, the term ‘thermal’ was fast becoming associated with ‘budget’. The thermal sock market was flooded by products which were cheap to make and cheap to buy, resulting in thin socks with poor insulation which were completely redundant for their sole purpose, keeping people’s feet warm.

By 2013, Heat Holders were stocked in various well known high street retailers and had moved across the pond to take on the huge US & Canadian retail market. Moving across the world, countries including China, Australia, Russia and South Korea now stock Heat Holders.

Appalled that customers weren’t getting what they were paying for, David and Shane saw an opportunity to bring to the market what it was missing, a high-quality, affordable thermal sock that actually worked. With the aid of SockShop, the online retailer that owns Heat Holders, two years were dedicated to creating the new thermal sock. New machinery was developed to achieve the thermal sock design and an all new extra-long looped pile was produced. This pile succeeded in locking in far more warm air close to the skin – a key element to thermal insulation.

A true retail success story, Heat Holders have increased their turnover from £200,000 in 2010 to £10 million in 2014, and are now stocked in hundreds of major retailers. Not bad for a sock originating from Leicester!

Yarn mixes were tested until the final blend, a warm cashmere-like feeling material, was developed. This new yarn, long-looped pile and the all new intense brushing process – a closely guarded secret that maximises total warmth - are the three elements of Heat Holders, devised by David, Shane and Sockshop that make the socks so warm. Believe it or not Heat Holders were also awarded a 2.34 tog rating, which compared with the 0.89 rating of ordinary thermal socks, truly highlights how warm the Heat Holders socks really are. By 2008 Heat Holders were introduced into the market as ‘the ultimate thermal sock’ and by 2010 they had revolutionised the thermal sock market in the UK.

What prompted this influx in interest and understanding of the brand across the globe? A variation of elements to increase brand development and awareness, put into action by Midlands based national brand agency, Champions (UK) plc. The two locally based businesses ensured that Heat Holders were aligned with the right PR, marketing and advertising as well as celebrity ambassadors to match the ethos of the thermal sock brand. The heavily media relations led campaign was started in 2010 with all campaign activity devised and put into place to turn Heat Holders from a mere name of a sock, into a fully-fledged brand – with various product expansions. Champions (UK) plc secured celebrity ambassadors, firstly in the form of Big Brother winner & DIY expert, Craig Phillips and then with two further personalities, Ski pundit and former Olympian, Graham Bell as well as TV weather girl Emma Jesson. These ambassadors still represent the brand four years down the line, bringing their own individual career specialisms to the name of Heat Holders. Another ambassador, TV personality & garden specialist Jules Hudson has also recently joined the Heat Holders fold – bringing with him extraordinary gardening knowledge – a strong hobby held by many a Heat Holders fan.

Shane Doughty of Heat Holders says of Champions (UK) plc, “I have been working with Champions (UK) plc on our Heat Holders brand since 2010. In that time Champions (UK) plc have become an essential part of our whole team. Though their remit is PR & marketing, the Champions (UK) plc team cover so much more than this across all aspects of our business. I can honestly say their can-do attitude and willingness to go out of their way for our product is amazing. With so many levels of expertise from editorial, advertising, press coverage to website management, social media and our ambassadors, Champions (UK) plc have been fundamental in making our product number one in the marketplace today.” Champions (UK) plc created a Heat Holders specific website for the brand, wherein more information could be gathered and as the retail market expanded into foreign charters, the website expanded into translated pages and retail e-commerce sites where relevant. Champions (UK) plc then went on to provide a number of services from 2010 onwards including: •

PR services, including media relations, experiential & reactive PR

•

Design and development of marketing materials for retail sales purposes

•

Social Media set up & management

•

Outdoor advertising

•

Sky Partnership – with sponsorship of CBS Reality, CBS Drama, Bio & Universal in November – December 2013.

•

Sampling at key events including Cosmopolitan Awards 2013 & Lollibob 2013

Since working alongside Champions (UK) plc to grow their brand, Heat Holders has always had, and continues to push a strong focus on PR and media relations as well as sampling. Champions (UK) plc and Heat Holders even worked together compiling a targeted sampling strategy towards various types of organisations and persons who would be interested in trying thermal socks, i.e. dog walkers, walking groups, camping enthusiasts, fishermen, mountain rescue groups and the RNLI, to name just a few. These organisations were instrumental to Heat Holders’ brand development, bringing in testimonials and feedback as well as valuable customer responses and ideas for future products. Thanks to Champions (UK) plc’s help in promotion and marketing products to consumers, Heat Holders now not only provides various socks in different lengths and styles for men, women and children, but also went on to create new products for the retail market. These include blankets, gloves, hats, thermal underwear, thermal tights and leggings as well as the newly designed jumpers – all created with their customer in mind, ensuring they meet the market demand and their main desire, to keep people warm!

To Discover more about Heat Holders visit: www.heatholders.com To Discuss & Enhance your brand visit: www.championsukplc.com

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BUSINESS AND FINANCE

One of the country’s most iconic sports grounds, Edgbaston Stadium has been home to Warwickshire County Cricket Club since 1882. As well as providing countless moments of sporting magic over the years, we are a leading events venue offering bright, modern and versatile facilities for conferences, banqueting and hospitality. Situated in the heart of the vibrant City of Birmingham, our venue can cater for up to 800 people in the larger suites while smaller rooms are available for more intimate occasions. Our famous stadium offers fabulous event spaces with stunning views of the legendary pitch.

Located just 1.5 miles from Birmingham New Street station and 7 miles from Birmingham International airport, Edgbaston Stadium is easily accessible by road, rail and air and offers over 600 car parking spaces on site.

Whether you’re planning a single day’s meeting, three-day team building exercise or a big event that lasts all week, Edgbaston Stadium has the ideal package to suit all requirements and budgets. Our friendly and experienced team will be able to talk through exactly what you need and put a package together tailored specifically to you.

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Banqueting Packages

Day Delegate Packages

Why not choose Edgbaston stadium as the venue for your banqueting event? Whether you are planning a conference, dinner or award ceremony, we would love to hear from you.

Each month our day delegate packages take on a different theme that offer the essential elements to make your meeting a success, as well as some added fun!

For large events, the banqueting suite can accommodate up to 550 guests or act as three separate conference rooms with the ability to create a corridor between spaces. The suite also has a balcony with spectacular views across the pitch and the Birmingham skyline.

Our fantastic day delegate rates start from just

Our packages are designed to suit all requirements and budgets and we have plenty of industry links to AV and theming companies that will help to make your event a great success. We also have fantastic offers that you can add to your event such as drinks receptions and arrival canapés to make your event even more special. Prices start from just

£24

+ VAT per person

£30

+ VAT per person

Conference and Cricket Looking for a unique way to impress your colleagues and delegates when you next hold a meeting? Then why not use our Conference and Cricket offering as part of your day delegate package? The Conference and Cricket packages are available for the exciting and popular NatWest T20 blast fixtures throughout the 2014 season There are three different Conference and Cricket options that range from a drink and a curry all the way to fine dining and inclusive drinks package. Prices start from just

£58

Inc. VAT per person

For more information on any of the above packages, please contact our friendly and experienced team on 08446351902 option 2 or enquiries@edgbaston.com 125

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

ampler Menthol

multiCIG launches...

multiVAPE

ampler

multiVAPE is the most recent addition to the multiCIG line and is a premium mod device manufactured in partnership with Inspire, one of the world’s most advanced vaping brands. The bottom dual coil cartomizer used in the multiVAPE range is the first and only of its kind manufactured. E-Liquids and vaping devices have seen unprecedented growth in the UK market over the past year as smokers, who have switched their allegiance from tobacco to electronic cigarettes, seek out longer battery life and better quality flavours. This dramatic rise in vapers means that thousands of people in the UK are now using mod devices. A mod is a modified e-cigarette, the user simply chooses a flavour of e-liquid to suit them and pours this into their mod device. Then, just like an e-cig, the user would vape, gaining all the satisfaction of a traditional cigarette. multiCIG has joined the vaping revolution and launched sister brand, multiVAPE, arguably one of the best devices around. Based in Nottingham, the multiCIG family is owned by fuel-linked distribution group, DSL, offering truly premium alternatives to cigarettes, available in a wide range of flavours and offering disposable, trial and starter kits. multiCIG is one of the leaders of the

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premium e-cigarette marketplace, offering a product that helps smokers cut down on traditional tobacco products and switch from smoking to vaping. This viable alternative to cigarettes means that smokers are no longer inhaling the toxins, tar or the 4,000 chemicals found in traditional cigarettes. multiCIG not only prides itself on products of the highest quality but is also committed to encouraging the development of the local economy. This commitment has led to multiCIG choosing a Nottinghamshire company as its sole e-liquid manufacturer for its new mod device. The multiVAPE e-liquids can be purchased separately and are added to the device to enhance the users overall ‘vaping’ experience. The device comes with a USB charger and 7ml sample of menthol mist or tobacco leaf flavoured e-liquid. Once the device has been purchased, users can then simply buy additional multiVAPE e-liquids to suit their taste. The e-liquid currently comes in five flavours ranging from tobacco leaf to apple jack and can be purchased in two sizes as well as two nicotine strengths, 12mg or 18mg. A recent survey by anti-tobacco charity, Ash, found that more than 2 million people are now using e-cigarettes in Britain, this number has tripled from

700,000 in 2012, highlighting the popularity of the smoking alternative. The electronic cigarette marketplace is an exciting and emerging one, engaging large and influential tobacco companies, some of which have acquired e-cigarette brands to expand their offering after recognising a potential market sector that could render traditional tobacco products obsolete. multiVAPE is multiCIG’s latest contribution to this ever evolving domain, leading the way for the East Midlands and continuing to provide its growing number of consumers with a revolutionary brand. A business leader, multiCIG has been awarded the prestigious Company of the Year award by Business and Industry Today magazine. The publication aims to promote high quality products and services from reliable and trustworthy companies and decided to recognise the exceptional quality of multiCIG’s products with this great accolade. With its range of practical and health benefits over traditional tobacco products, multiCIG is fast gaining recognition and its latest nomination establishes its products as the best alternative to smoking.

Sampler Menthol

Britain’s premium brand of e-cigarettes, multiCIG, has introduced multiVAPE to join its range of high quality devices, rivalling competitors with a variety of innovative new products. Sampler

Exclusive Reader Offer: Magazine readers will receive an exclusive 30% discount on their first multiVAPE order. Simply visit www.multiCIG.com and enter code “MAG30”* at the checkout. Discover the great range of devices & UK manufactured e-liquids at www.multiCIG.com *This offer is limited to one use per customer. Voucher code is valid on all multiVAPE products and expires on October 31st 2014.

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1 BUSINESS AND FINANCE

YEARS

OF SOCIAL

MEDIA

With Facebook celebrating its ten year anniversary in February 2014, we look back at social media’s influence on business over the period as well as its prospects for the future. Now synonymous with public relations, over the past ten years social media has played a fundamental role in raising awareness and establishing marketing strategies for small businesses. The Internet Advertising Bureau UK recently found that nearly 80% of consumers would feel more inclined to purchase goods due to a brand’s presence on social media, therefore the need to utilise this outlet is becoming ever more essential. Social media can help to drive traffic to a website, convert consumers into sales or create footfall for stores thanks to the large target audience you can access in a cost and time efficient manner. With Facebook now playing host to 1.23 billion members and Twitter growing to over 240 million active monthly users, ignoring social media can hinder a firm’s ability to ascertain new custom when compared to competitors and market leaders. The capacity to appeal to prospects associated with a firm is an attribute heavily involved with business usage of social media. Professional networking site LinkedIn allows businesspeople worldwide to ‘link’, increasing chances of both employability and the strengthening of corporate relationships. Two new members join LinkedIn every second, growing the online business world by up to 180,000 people each and every day. 128

The use of Google+ allows the sharing of content and the added benefit of search engine optimisation for any firm’s website. Mixing in a number of ‘circles’ on the site allows a plethora of varying individuals and firms to correspond and exchange valuable media throughout the site’s one billion users. Twitter is perhaps one of the most accessible social media platforms for businesses. The use of hashtags creates the ability to trend a topic of discussion almost immediately whilst influential Twitter accounts have the ability to endorse products and services to audiences of millions with a simple message under 140 characters. Twitter is also currently the quickest growing social network, with its appeal spanning a large demographic far beyond a number of rival sites. Over social media’s ten year history, companies have been able to create a personality behind their businesses, allowing a more humorous and light-hearted approach to both customer care and sales. Large scale corporations now employ teams of people to monitor questions and complaints from social media, giving customers a direct form of communication and firms an outlet in which they can sort consumer queries quickly and efficiently. After mainstream social media’s inception just over ten years ago, analysts have seen an ever changing trend to user demographics of these online portals, granting firms new ways to fashion marketing strategies and attract their ideal customers. For example, between 2012 and 2013, the fastest growing demographic on Twitter was the 55-64 year age bracket, with a 79% increase over the period. Equally, the 45-54 year age bracket has grown by over 40% in the same period for both Facebook and Google+. This ever changing composition of target markets allows a profile of consumers that can be relatable to more businesses, more of the time. With the huge change in the way businesses use and gain from social media in the past ten years, many business owners are now looking to the future and what it may hold for this exciting marketing platform. No one definitively knows how the business world will look in 2024, however technological experts believe that social media will still be as prominent as it is now. With social media no longer the new kid on the block, these online platforms will be a major internal modus operandi, with firms employing innovative tactics to connect to a global audience. At present, many companies see social media as a bolt-on to their existing public relations and marketing strategies. However the inclusion of digital frictionless payment tied to social media can open up sales potential exponentially, with consumers able to buy high street goods directly from posts of interest as well as donate gifts and credit to friends and family with ease. Many experts also see platforms become ever more niche, with every demographic having a social media site or application tailored to their needs. This development will allow the targeting of consumers to be more focused, driving up conversion rates and cutting costs of market research. In just ten years, the concept of social media has gone from a site to connect Harvard elites to a worldwide social and business phenomenon. With just over a quarter of the population not being able to remember the last time they were without a mobile phone, the likes of Twitter, Facebook and Google+ are playing an ever greater role in purchasing decisions and consumer behaviour. The utilisation of these marketing and public relation mediums allow companies to stand up on an online rostrum and appeal to as many customers as any other strategy possible, an asset that is sure to continue in the future as well as it has done in the previous ten years.

Champions (UK) plc can help you harness the power of your brand, offering sophisticated PR, marketing and social media packages. For more information call 08453 31 30 31 or email info@championsukplc.com 129

Our home grown hospitality extends much further than what you see on a matchday at Villa Park.The club is passionate about sustainability, locally-sourced foods and staff development.

The hard work that goes on behind the scenes to deliver an outstanding matchday experience to our valued members and boxholders has been highlighted by numerous awards that we have won for our unrivalled quality hospitality.

We endeavour that at least 80% of our catering suppliers are based within the five counties and the majority of our soft fruit, vegetables and herbs are grown on a 4,000 square metre allotment site located a mile away from Villa Park.

We are committed to delivering sustainable and locally-sourced produce served up by talented and up-and-coming hospitality staff.

We do not just nurture potatoes and herbs - but also young people. Over the past year, 80 local teenagers have been involved in the allotment project and many of those are now employed at Villa Park on matchdays.

Find out what makes our hospitality a cut above the rest.

homegrown

Call 0800 612 0960 (option 1) or visit www.avhe.co.uk

from gate to plate... The roots of Villa’s commitment to sustainability and homegrown produce can be traced to a site the size of a football pitch located a mile from Villa Park. The allotment plot, was acquired around three years ago and was started out as a venture to produce homegrown ingredients for the club. It has grown into an exciting pilot project involving young people from the Roots and Renewal Foundation, some of these young people also serve in our hospitality suites at Villa Park.

WE USE ‘KIND TO ENVIRONMENT’ WASH

7. WASHED & RINSED

8. STORED IN FRIDGE

6. TAKE TO VILLA PARK

P A VILL

MENT T O L L A 5. HARVEST CROP 4. LET THEM GROW

9. PREPARED FOR YOU

10. COOKED FOR YOU 3. NURTURE SEEDLINGS 12. BROUGHT TO YOU 1. PREPARE GROUND

2. PLANT SEEDS

GATE

PLATE 11. PLATED UP

ON S A LE NOW OUR H O S P I TA L I T Y

a cut above... Seasonal hospitality is now on sale for Season 2014/15 Our home grown hospitality extends much further than what you see on a matchday at Villa Park. The club is committed to delivering sustainable and locally-sourced produce served up by talented and up-and-coming hospitality staff.

Prices from ÂŁ2,550 + VAT Per person Find out what makes our homegrown hospitality a cut above the rest.

Call 0800 612 0960 (option 1) or visit www.avhe.co.uk

BUSINESS AND FINANCE

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BUSINESS AND FINANCE

Unique opportunity to book a wine sommelier for a private tasting of exclusive fine wines by the case... In constant pursuit of excellence since 1981

As a special offer to all INSPIRATIONAL magazine

independent fine wine merchants CHARLES

readers, CHARLES MITCHELL WINES are offering a

MITCHELL WINES have been exclusively sourcing

complimentary fine wine tasting in the comfort of

the very finest wines from producers and growers

your home. If you love wine and have friends who

from around the world for their clients drinking

are discerning wine lovers contact RICHARD to

pleasure.

book your evening. This is a great opportunity to fill your cellar with boutique hand crafted wines from around the world.

Quality Counts

Unbeatable Service

Exclusive Fine Wines by the Case

Friendly, Professional and Knowledgeable

Award-winning Wines Selected

Guaranteed FREE Nationwide Delivery

for your Pleasure Rare Vintage Fine Wines and Bin Ends Presentation Gift Packs For All Occasions

Ordering is easy, by phone, fax or email Corporate Tastings/Team Building Events Events and Launch Promotions

Specialised Cellar Service

Contact Richard Lambourne to arrange your personal wine tasting. Tel: 0161 775 1626 | Email: richard@cmwines.com | Web: www.cmwines.com 134

The Charles Mitchell team will be showcasing their fantastic, exclusive wines at the following prestigious events throughout 2014:

JUNE

Cheshire County Show, Knutsford, Cheshire Tuesday 17th & Wednesday 18th Taste of London, Regents Park, London Thursday 19th – Sunday 22nd

JULY

RHS Hampton Court Flower Show, Surrey Tuesday 8th – Sunday 13th CLA Game Fair, Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire Friday 18th – Sunday 20th

Award winning wines selected for your pleasure for 33 vintage years.

RHS Tatton Park Flower Show, Knutsford, Cheshire Wednesday 23rd – Sunday 27th

AUGUST

British Par 3, Nailcote Hall, Warwickshire Wednesday 6th – Friday 8th Chatsworth County Fair, Derbyshire Friday 29th – Sunday 31st

Vintage Years

OCTOBER

Wine Masterclass. Manchester Friday 24th

NOVEMBER

Spirit of Christmas Fair, Olympia, London Tuesday 4th – Sunday 9th Christmas Tasting Event, The Mere Golf Resort, Knutsford, Cheshire Sunday 30th – 12noon - 8pm Please contact Richard for more information

Many clients have used us for corporate tasting and we have experience in working with some of the UK’s top companies: Coutts & Co

Barclays Wealth

RBS

Inspirational

Smallbone Kitchens

Sunseeker

Baker Tilley

Champions (UK) PLC

Bentley Motors

Accenture

Bushnells Motorboats

Prince’s Trust

Rolls Royce

Spire Cellars

Sub Zero

Johnsons Jewellers

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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

Ashas Annual Diwali Charity Dinner Sunday 10th November 2013 Ashas annual Diwali Charity Dinner took place in the restaurant on the 10th November 2013. Attended by nearly 200 guests, this year the nominated charity was the Midlands based ‘Bond Wolfe Charitable Trust’. Head Chef had created a wonderful 4 course menu for the occasion and diners took the opportunity to have a great fun on the charity casino. Other fund raising events included an Auction and Raffle, which were hosted by Paul Bassi and Pawan Kenth. Pawan Kenth said “Ashas is fully committed to supporting the wider Birmingham community and through the Bond Wolfe Charitable Trust we are able to assist a wide variety of deserving causes. Tonight we have raised over £10,000, and I want to thank everyone who joined us for their wonderful and generous support.”

Matthew and Sarah Hoggard

Guests enjoying the evening

Masquerade Charity Ball Friday 31st January 2014 Champions (UK) plc celebrated over a decade of business at a very special charity event, The Masquerade Ball. The glittering occasion highlighted the past year’s successes and offered an excellent opportunity to raise money for hospice for children and young people, Rainbows. Guests included key business individuals, celebrities and friends of the Costock based company, all gathering for the glamorous black tie event. Guests enjoying the evening

Aidan and Sarah Reed

The event, hosted by snooker legend Willie Thorne, took place at Leicester’s King Power Stadium where guests were welcomed down a red carpet and greeted with a glittering champagne reception. The event welcomed a host of stars including most-capped England footballer Peter Shilton OBE, former footballer and manager Ron Atkinson, DIY experts Tommy Walsh and Craig Phillips, Ashes-winning cricketer Matthew Hoggard MBE and Grand National winner Bob Champion MBE. Many took part in both a silent auction and exciting live auction, hosted by television auctioneer and antiques expert Charlie Ross, generating even more donations to Rainbows through the sale of sporting and historic memorabilia, holidays and a range of luxury lifestyle items.

Amy Chambers

There was also a chance for one lucky person to win a diamond worth £1,000 from Lumbers jewellers by purchasing a special glass of champagne, with all money raised going to Rainbows. The event was a sparkling celebration of the Champions (UK) plc’s achievements, as well as a fantastic opportunity to provide vital funds to charity, allowing them to continue their work for years to come. Tim Charlesworth and Anne Davies Jo Jackson and Grant Turner

George and Clare Herd

Eric Herd and Gillian Wesley

Willie and Jill Thorne

James and Emma Blick

Verity Monaghan and Femi Latif

Peter Shilton OBE and Steph Kettle

Ron and Maggie Atkinson

Bob Champion MBE and Helen Lamb

Tommy Walsh, Andy Abraham, Craig Phillips and Willie Thorne

Stephanie Farwell and Lindsay Doughty

Eliza Walters, Dominic Gomersall and Brooke Hurdley

Ballroom dancers Lloyd and Rebecca

Lloyd Bailey

Gemma Olweny and Willie Thorne

Auctioneer Charlie Ross

Louisa Hayes, Lauren Ecob, Amelia Benskin and Charlotte Best

Adee Phelan and Andy Munday

Jamie and Danielle O’Hara

Kevin Urquhart, Lizzie Gardner and Jon Fraser

Setting the city’s trends – Harvey Nichols S/S14 Fashion Show Birmingham’s Harvey Nichols staged its most exclusive fashion show to date ... so exclusive, that it was even held in a secret city centre location. With a VIP guest list that included sporting stars, celebrities, media and business leaders, this stylish event saw the finest S/S14 collections on the catwalk. The venue – revealed to guests at the last minute as an industrial-style warehouse in John Bright Street – provided a striking backdrop to the most sought-after pieces from the likes of Alexander McQueen, Givenchy, Victoria Beckham, Kenzo, Roland Mouret, Mary Katrantzou and Christopher Kane.

Model wearing Kenzo dress

Model wearing Mary Katrantzou dress

Those lucky enough to get a ticket were treated to a Champagne reception sponsored by Perrier-Jouët and music provided by renowned Kiss FM DJs, The Dixon Brothers. Trends on show included Down The Garden Path, Sports Luxe, The New Rave, Sheer and Pleats and Tribal Folklore. The models sleek and chic hair was styled by Paul Jones, while the makeup team at Space.NK opted for neon lips and heavily-defined cheekbones. Styling was by Rachel Story. Photos/RYAN PHILLIPS

Mikel Diaz and Suzanne Milne

Marcus Kingland and Tarah Hewitt

Simon Cox and Samantha Brown

Model wearing Peter Pilotto

Model wearing MSGM

Teenage Cancer Trust benefits from ball Friday 14th February 2014 A fabulous Valentine’s Ball at Nailcote Hall in aid of Teenage Cancer Trust raised more than £10,000 for the charity. Organised by Touch Base Magazine editor Karen Jones and Revolve boutique in Leamington Spa, the event was supported by many local businesses who gave generously towards the evening. Hosted by former snooker player Willie Thorne, the event saw guests enjoying dinner in the marquee, followed by entertainment by Brothers of Soul. Karen said: “It was an amazing success – I’m very grateful for everyone who came and supported this wonderful charity by attending the ball.” She thanked particularly the team from Revolve: Jackie Allan, Mandy Dobbin, Hayley Bates, and Nicky Turnham. Teenage Cancer Trust is the only charity in the UK that is dedicated to improving the quality of life and survival chances of teenagers who are diagnosed with cancer.

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

27th February 2014

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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Charity Fundraiser Saturday 5th April 2014 New Hall Hotel & Spa recently experienced considerable success with their Bollywood themed Charity fundraiser for the cardiac unit of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham. Borne from New Hallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sales & Marketing Manager Julie Smith committing to a 470km cycle ride in just five days in Rajasthan, a Bollywood theme to the event seemed a perfect way to blend the two fundraising efforts together. Queen Elizabeth Hospitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cardiac unit is the largest in the United Kingdom, providing treatment for patients suffering with every type of heart disease. Delivering high quality care to patients from the West Midlands and beyond, the unit plays a key role in the lives of thousands of people in the country, a primary reason why New Hall Hotel & Spa chose them to donate to. With the event being sponsored by a number of companies including New Hall Hotel & Spa, Itihaas Birmingham, CZ Handsaker Florists and King G Mall, the event managed to raise ÂŁ5,000 for the cardiac unit and has tightened the relationship of the local business community exponentially.

The Launch of MK HealthHub A fantastic evening was enjoyed by all at the launch of the exclusive new Health & Fitness Club ‘MK HealthHub’ in Solihull. Over 350 guests attended, including Harry Judd from the band McBusted, West Bromwich Albion Goal Keeper, Ben Foster and comedian Jasper Carrot, enjoyed a range of healthy bites, cold pressed juices and champagne. The team from MK demonstrated various group exercise routines including Reformer Pilates, Ballet Barre and Metabolic Training. ‘The Hub is a totally unique environment’ says founder Matt Kendrick, ‘Members will have access to the most cutting-edge Fitness and Pilates programmes available anywhere in the UK. With customised and bespoke equipment (the likes of which you’ve probably never seen in a gym before) an atmosphere of high energy and a real sense of community created by our team of professionals, there is simply no place quite like it.’ In addition the MK Juice Lounge, run by creative Chef Gareth Cole, offers a varied and tasteful menu of cold pressed juices, customised smoothies, organic coffee and delicious snacks and meals to eat in or take-away. MK HealthHub have a limited number of Founder Memberships still available. To book a complimentary consultation or for more information, please call us on 0121 704 0593 or email us at info@mkhealthhub.co.uk

VIEW OUR VAST RANGE OF

THE LEADING AFTER DINNER AND MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKERS FROM THE WORLDS OF

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THIS IS JUST A SMALL SAMPLE OF OVER 1000 ENTERTAINERS, SPEAKERS AND MOTIVATORS WE HAVE ON OUR BOOKS!

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THIS IS JUST A SMALL SELECTION OF CELEBRITIES WE MANAGE. TO JOIN THIS ELITE STABLE, CALL US NOW.

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