magazine
INSPIRATIONAL magazine
INSPIRATIONAL
L AW R E N C E in this edition...
EDITION 8
Inspi AW 2015 Cover Edition 8 Jennifer Lawrence.indd 1
JENNIFER LAWRENCE: GIRL ON FIRE STAR WARS: THE FRANCHISE AWAKENS THE MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKERS AGENCY: CHAMPIONS (UK) PLC’S LATEST OFFERING
AUTUMN/WINTER 2015
AUTUMN/WINTER 2015
JENNIFER
30/10/2015 11:58
In the lead role: John Travolta, movie legend and aviation aficionado. Guest star: the legendary North American X-15 that smashed all speed and altitude records and opened the gateway to space. Production: Breitling, the privileged partner of aviation thanks to its reliable, accurate and innovative instruments – such as the famous Chronomat, the ultimate chronograph. Welcome to a world of legends, feats and performance.
51 Queens Road, Nuneaton, Warwickshire, CV11 5JX, Tel: 02476 347038
WELCOME TO MY WORLD
CHRONOMAT 44
TAG HEUER CARRERA CARA DELEVINGNE SPECIAL EDITION Cara Delevingne challenges rules. Being free-minded is her motto. Like TAGÂ Heuer, she defies conventions and never cracks under pressure.
51 Queens Road, Nuneaton, Warwickshire, CV11 5JX
Editor in Chief Matthew Hayes
magazine
Sales Director Sophia Hayes Features Editor Alexandra Buist Advertising Executives Amy Derrick Jessica Dunn
editor’s note
I take great pride in welcoming you to the 8th edition of Inspirational Magazine.
Features Writers Christopher Brookes William Smith Rebecca Hales Richard Padmore Rory Baxter Rosie Banbury Giuseppe Labellarte Elyssa Fagan Amy Coleman Rachel Easter Francesca Bonfiglio Emily Wood
Our cover feature for this edition takes a look at the seemingly unstoppable actress, Jennifer Lawrence. Despite only being 25, Lawrence’s career would be worthy of a lifetime’s work, showing the demand for her ability and her now superstar status. From her role in Silver Linings Playbook, to the lead role of Katniss Everdeen in The Hunger Games, Lawrence has captured the imagination of millions and her career continues to go from strength to strength.
Senior Designer Ewen Lewis Designers Kristian Goodeve Jamie Traynor Terri Burton Liam Creek Annie Taylor Photography Kristian Goodeve Antonia Doyle Ewen Lewis Matthew Shaw Web Development David Evans Michael Pattinson
Contributors Libby Johnson Robert Johnson Jane Riley Richard Vickery Janine Edwards Tara Robinson
Chris Papachristoforou Major Richard Carney Captain Tony Spacey Lucy Talbot Simon Barrs Richard Wallace
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
The West Midlands continues to showcase the huge value it brings to the business community and Inspirational Magazine is perfectly placed to provide a voice for these establishments. It has been a busy six months for Johnsons Jewellers of Nuneaton, having taken stock of three new brands, namely Ungar and Ungar, Mark Milton and Fairtrade certified Canadian diamond supplier, Arctic Circle. The new inclusions show that Johnsons Jewellers is as equally desirable to the largest watch companies in the world as it is to exclusive collections of fine jewellery. Johnsons have recently launched a new wedding area, alongside two ‘shop in shop’ areas for Tag Heuer and Omega. The shopping experience at Johnsons sets them apart and it is no wonder why for some, it is the only destination when buying their next watch or item of jewellery. Hotel La Tour has been elemental in Birmingham’s hospitality offering for many years, thanks to a mixture of excellent customer service, market leading corporate facilities and terrific catering. Appointing Champions (UK) plc as strategic branding and marketing partners in September 2015, initial work has included a new website, new marketing collateral as well as new management of all direct marketing outlets. This edition also marks the launch of the Hotel’s new Marco Pierre White restaurant, named ‘Mr. White’s Chophouse’. The new restaurant will incorporate everything the Hotel has become known for and more, ensuring guests are treated to a superbly high level of cuisine. I am also pleased to announce that on the 25th September 2015, Champions (UK) plc officially opened their new 6000+ sqft. offices. The new offices were opened by Rt Hon Kenneth Clarke QC, six years to the day that he opened the first section of the same building. The day was marked with a celebratory event welcoming a vast array of individuals including clientele, celebrities and Champions’ staff. A special thanks goes out to SLM Builders and lighting specialists Ventola Projects for their tireless work to make the new office’s fit and finish truly outstanding. For many years now, Champions’ after dinner speaking department has enjoyed year-on-year growth and an expanding reach to prominent personalities on the speaking circuit. Spotting a gap in the market for an online outlet specifically tailored for motivational speakers, Champions’ new website, motivationalspeakersagency.co.uk, gives the most diverse choice of motivational speakers available today. Another example of Champions offering clients an ever more proficient service, the firm have high hopes for the website in generating greater business in the future. I hope you thoroughly enjoy this edition of Inspirational Magazine. I wish you a wonderful festive season and a very happy New Year.
Matthew Hayes Editor in Chief
Champions (UK) plc Barrington House, Leake Road, Costock, Loughborough, Leicestershire LE12 6XA Tel: 08453 31 30 31 Fax: 08453 31 30 32 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 of the publisher or indeed Inspirational Magazine or any featured parties.
5
Inspi Editors Letter Edition 8 V1.indd 5
Presented in a stainless steel case, black ceramic bi-directional bezel ring,12-hour scale in Liquidmetal®, vintage rhodium plated hands with Super-Luminova. 5-stripe NATO strap with “007” engraved bracelet strap holder. OMEGA Master Co-Axial calibre 8400, resistant to magnetism up to 15,000 gauss. Omega Seamaster 300m Master Co-Axial 41mm Spectre Limited Edition Available from: Johnsons Jewellers | johnsonsjewellers.co.uk • 02476 347 038
03/11/2015 10:53
8
24
68
80
20
90 70
92 BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE
IT’S A MAN’S WORLD
HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN
Jennifer Lawrence.............................. 8
Brian Close CBE............................. 59
Cookers of Distinction...................... 86
Air Partner....................................... 16
Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship 2015........................ 62
Abel................................................. 88
The rise and rise of a Hollywood superstar
Let’s fly, let’s fly away
Kruzer...........................................................20 Hands-free urban personal transportation devices
Mailbox........................................... 22 Shop, pamper, dine, watch, stay
Harvey Nichols................................ 24 Autumn/winter trends and gift inspiration
Johnsons Jewellers........................... 44
A look back at the life of the great cricketer and gentleman
Another record-breaking year for the golfing extravaganza
Harvey Nichols Men......................... 68
Serious about cooking
Celebrating 50 years of security
Edwards Insurance Brokers.............. 90
Gift inspiration from the king of luxury
Specialist household insurance from the customer-focused team
Game Angling Consultancy.............. 70
Cadmore Lodge............................... 92
An exclusive Icelandic angling adventure
Luxury country living
Star Wars......................................... 80
Omniblend....................................... 94
The world’s biggest movie franchise returns
Bring your kitchen to life with the wholefood machine
Flying the flag for fair trade
6
6-7 Contents Pages.indd 6
03/11/2015 10:58
128
110
116 98
130 126
102 RESTAURANT GUIDE
BUSINESS AND FINANCE
SOCIAL AND NETWORKING
Edmunds......................................... 97
Dominic Holland........................... 108
St James’s Place Client Lunch
Cielo................................................ 98 LBF15_OverallBrochure V4.indd 2
Nuvo................................................ 99 Mr White’s English Chophouse ...... 100 Gas Street Social • Everyman Cinema • Chez Mal ................................... 102 Gourmet Burger • Red Peppers • Bar Epernay.................................. 103
Master of ceremonies, master of comedy
St James’s Place............................ 110
Abel – 50th Anniversary Celebrations Rainbows Celebrity Charity Ball
Leading wealth management and financial planning solutions
Champions Club Celebrity Golf Day
Sinica............................................ 114
A Night at Johnsons Jewellers
A virtual receptionist to create a lasting first impression for your business
Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship 2015
Adey Steel...................................... 116
Coventry & Warwickshire Sports Awards
Birmingham Sports Awards
Celebrating 90 years of making steel work
i-Lite Launch Lladro
Dr Abraze Khalique........................ 120
Champions Club Take That Evening
Five-star medical care
24/07/2015 16:06
Eden Hotel Collection Launch Bovey Castle
Champions Motivational Speakers .122 A brand new website – find the perfect speaker for your next event
7
6-7 Contents Pages.indd 7
03/11/2015 10:58
BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE
8
Jennifer Lawrence 6pg_V3.indd 8
30/10/2015 16:30
Inspirational Magazine takes an in depth look at one of the biggest movie stars on the planet, Jennifer Lawrence.
9
Jennifer Lawrence 6pg_V3.indd 9
30/10/2015 16:30
BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE
At the age of just 25, Jennifer Lawrence is already well on her way to becoming a Hollywood icon. From independent films to blockbuster movie franchises, she has already demonstrated an undeniable ability steal a film with her towering performances. A sometimes reluctant celebrity, her down-to-earth personality is why millions of fans adore her. We take a closer a look at an incredible career, still in its early stages, but one that has already brought more success than most actors achieve in a lifetime. Born into a regular working class family in Louisville, Kentucky, Lawrence got her first taste of acting by performing in local theatre productions. When she was 14, she persuaded her parents to take her to New York City to find a talent agent. After that, a career in acting was the only thing she wanted to pursue. TBS comedy series The Bill Engvall Show gave Lawrence her big break with her role as the oldest daughter, Lauren Pearson. After three seasons on the show, during which she won a Young Artist Award, she made her film debut with a minor role in the teenage drama Garden Party. Her first taste of playing the leading lady came when she was 16 years old in The Poker House where she played a young victim of abuse. An emotional and challenging role, she was awarded the Los Angeles Film Festival Award for Outstanding Performance. Next came a starring role alongside Charlize Theron and Kim Basinger in Guillermo Arriaga’s directorial debut, The Burning Plain which earnt her yet another accolade – the Marcello Mastroianni Award for Best Emerging Actress at the Venice Film Festival. 10
Jennifer Lawrence 6pg_V3.indd 10
30/10/2015 16:30
Winter’s Bone Cast and Crew: Charlotte Jeane Lucas, Kevin Breznahan, Casey MacLaren, Tate Taylor, Jennifer Lawrence, Cody Brown, Lauren Sweetser, John Hawkes, Dale Dickey and director Debra Granik.
“In Lawrence, Granik has found just the right young actress to inhabit Ree. Her performance is more than acting, it’s a gathering storm.” - Rolling Stone critic Peter Travers referring to Debra Granik’s gritty drama Winter’s Bone
In 2010, at the age of just 19 years old, Lawrence received her first Oscar nomination for Best Actress in Debra Granik’s gritty drama Winter’s Bone. Receiving widespread critical acclaim, Rolling Stone critic Peter Travers was glowing in his praise for the young star: “In Lawrence, Granik has found just the right young actress to inhabit Ree. Her performance is more than acting, it’s a gathering storm.” Travers’ review proved to be extremely accurate. After starring in the independent film Like Crazy and dark comedy The Beaver, her first major blockbuster hit was X-Men: First Class. In her role as the shape-shifting villain Mystique, she was again lauded by critics and the film went on to earn $353.6 million at the international box office. More than double this total was made in her next outing as the character in X-Men: Days of Future Past. Lawrence will reprise her role once again in 2016’s X-Men: Apocalypse. In 2012, she was cast in her seminal role to date – Katniss Everdeen in The Hunger Games. Based on the best-selling novel, Lawrence was initially uncertain about taking the role due to the size of the film and how it may affect her career. Deciding to throw herself into the performance, she undertook extensive training in order to get ready for the all-action role of Katniss. Two sequels followed in quick succession and Lawrence became one of the most talked-about actresses on the planet. With the fourth and final film due for release later in November 2015, The Hunger Games has become one of those rare film franchises that receives both box office success and critical acclaim. Lawrence was recognised as the highest-grossing action heroine in the 2015 edition of the Guinness World Records. 11
Jennifer Lawrence 6pg_V3.indd 11
30/10/2015 16:31
BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE
Photo credits: Previous left hand page, top to bottom: Jennifer Lawrence at the 26th Producer’s Guild Awards Winter’s Bone cast and crew Jennifer Lawrence at the 18th Annual Critics’ Choice Movie Awards Left hand page going clockwise: Jennifer Lawrence at the 85th Academy Awards Jennifer Lawrence as Raven, aka Mystique in a scene from the film ‘X-Men: First Class’ Jennifer Lawrence attends the premiere of Lionsgate’s ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 1’
In an interview with The Telegraph, she explained her mixed feelings about the fame that inevitably came with her rise as an actress. “There are wonderful, wonderful things that come with the job but there are difficulties that come with it too,” she said. “I have perspective because I didn’t grow up in this business. I’m not from Hollywood, I’m from Kentucky. I didn’t become successful until a few years ago and I’m very aware of what the real world is.” In between her ongoing role in The Hunger Games, she received further acclaim playing a young widow in David O. Russell’s, Silver Linings Playbook. Despite initially being considered too young for the role, she won Russell over when she was invited to audition. “There’s an expressiveness in her eyes and in her face, that many stars have to work for, that’s ageless,” he said. Starring opposite Bradley Cooper and Robert De Niro, Lawrence gave the type of commanding performance that is rarely seen in an actress so young. Her ability as an actress comes entirely from within – she has never had an acting coach or teacher. After taking home a Golden Globe, she became the second youngest winner of a Best Actress Oscar at the age of just 22. The following year, she collaborated with Russell again in his 2013 crime drama American Hustle. In her supporting role as the wife of Christian Bale’s con man, she received another Golden Globe and her third Academy Award nomination, making her the youngest actress in history to receive this many Oscar nods. Her next collaboration with David O. Russell, Joy is due for release later in 2015 when she will play the eponymous character, Joy
12
Jennifer Lawrence 6pg_V3.indd 12
30/10/2015 16:31
Mangano, the inventor of the Miracle Mop starring alongside De Niro and Cooper once again. The combination of all these roles and her magnetic yet downto-earth public persona have made Jennifer Lawrence one of the most talked-about actresses on the planet. In August 2015, Forbes recognised her as the highest-paid actress of 2015, with earnings of $52 million and her popularly shows no signs of fading. Lawrence has never hidden from the fact that the level of fame she has attained is a constant source of uneasiness. She said in an interview with Vanity Fair: “When people look at you differently and talk to you differently, like even just walking into an elevator, it’s a very isolating feeling—they don’t look at you like a person anymore. It’s one of the most lonely, icy feelings in the world.” “When these movies came out, everybody else was looking at me differently, and the whole world was changing, but my world wasn’t changing. Everybody I was surrounding myself with were honest and real and telling me the truth. I don’t like yes-people. I don’t like lackeys. I don’t like people when they fake-laugh at my jokes.” Ironically, it is this genuine desire not to be corrupted by fame which is why so many fans continue to idolise her and the media swarm around her as she continues to grow. From the evidence we have seen so far, we are confident she can hold on to the parts of her personality that have made her so widely adored in the public eye. With her career stretching out before her, film-lovers are lucky enough that they will be enjoying performances from Jennifer Lawrence for years to come.
13
Jennifer Lawrence 6pg_V3.indd 13
30/10/2015 16:31
TDL0415_Aspirational_gold_230x285.indd 1
17/04/2015 11:16
51 Queens Road - Nuneaton Warwickshire CV11 5JX Phone: 024 76347038
Johnson_bamboo.indd 1
BAMBOO collection
30/09/15 16:35
BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE
INSPIRATIONAL Air Travel Associate
A notable history In operation for over 50 years, no other company can match the experience Air Partner has in the aircraft charter industry. In that time they have flown every mission imaginable, for every type of business and to every part of the planet.
After starting life as an advanced flying school for ex-servicemen, Air Partner was born shortly after hiring a number of aircraft for training. In the downtime, it placed the planes on charter. Soon the chartering grew to be bigger than the training and the business took off. Contrary to belief, it’s thinking small that has made Air Partner a global leader. Small teams of experts take the time to get to know and understand your needs to the smallest detail, delivering a carefully considered, 24/7 service.
Your time is a precious commodity Air Partner’s guiding principles are simple. They take care to understand your exact needs and know you cannot afford to waste time. They attend to even the smallest of details to ensure your private jet service is delivered to the highest standards of quality and value.
Air Partner DPS AW2015 V1.indd 16
Your peace of mind is at the centre of everything they do. Their first and last priority is to deliver you safely to where you need to be, on time, within budget, relaxed and ready for business or, indeed, pleasure.
Precision With 20 offices worldwide they offer truly global coverage. Air Partner has access to the largest fleet of private jets, VIP airliners and helicopters and, with the contacts they have built up over the decades, you are not restricted to commercial airports.
CharterPLUS GUA R A NTEE
Air Partner will cut down on your transfer time by flying you and your friends or business associates into the nearest airfield to your ultimate destination. They will save you all the hassle of conventional air travel and all the headaches of delayed flights and cancellations, lost luggage and crowded terminals will simply disappear. Air Partner take contractual responsibility for all their flights, so you can be fully confident your journey will be completed successfully. Their CharterPLUS guarantee ensures, at no additional cost, that you get exactly where you need to be. Whatever unexpected issues arise with aircraft or airlines, there will be guaranteed back-up aircraft at the ready.
30/10/2015 11:28
Flights On-Demand Air Partner offers the option to pay-as-you-fly with their On-Demand Charter, a service that lets you fly on your own terms, on the private jet of your choice, to your own schedule and from the airport most convenient to you. There are no long term contracts, acquisition costs or monthly management fees. In fact, there is no commitment beyond the flight.
Or you could opt for the Corporate Card. Designed to deliver the JetCard service with enhanced value for day-return users. It will save you time, money and makes sound business sense through fixed pricing and guaranteed availability when pre-purchasing flight time for day-return travel from your base airport.
JetCard Programmes
Whether flying for business or leisure the exclusive card options from Air Partner give you greater flexibility and value efficiencies, whenever you want to fly:
Alternatively, you might choose a prepaid solution. The JetCard offers total flexibility, hassle-free convenience, style, and comfort with only 24 hours’ notice. The price you see is the price you pay. Your Air Partner JetCard can make every stage of your journey just how you want it to be. And as relaxing, comfortable, safe and hassle-free as possible.
• 25 hours of pre-purchased jet time • Choose from six aircraft categories • Aircraft guaranteed at 24hours’ notice • Dedicated account manager • No fuel surcharges • No monthly management fees • Full refund on unused hours
Air Partner DPS AW2015 V1.indd 17
As they understand the demands of work and the pleasures of a holiday, you will enjoy a relaxing, worry-free journey from the moment they pick you up to the second they drop you off. A private jet service that safely takes care of you and your passengers. A travel team taking you wherever you want to go in speed, style and luxury. Air Partner has the experience that delivers value, assurance and performance.
For more information on our services, contact our team today. +44 (0) 207 538 2273 or fly@airpartner.com We look forward to hearing from you.
www.airpartner.com
17
30/10/2015 11:28
IGNITE SOMETHING O N LY T H E P E R F E C T C U T C A N U N L E A S H A DIAMOND’S BRILLIANCE.
H E A R T S O N F I R E S T O R E S , A U T H O R I Z E D R E TA I L E R S , H E A R T S O N F I R E . C O M
H Johnson & Son | 50-51 Queens Road | Nuneaton | Warwickshire 024 76347038 | johnsonsjewellers.co.uk
5839-johnsonjewellers.indd 1
10/14/15 11:07 AM
CPA_0415_ASPI_couple_230x285.indd 1
17/04/2015 11:16
BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE
KRUZE k o n t r o l
Technology is always changing and improving, but for the most part, technological advances tend to be small affairs that creep under the radar and are applied to existing products as updates or modifications. Every so often, however, comes a technological advance that takes the world by storm and leads to constant discussion in the playgrounds, by the watercoolers and in the media. In the Digital Age, the speed of progress is faster than ever. When Segways burst onto the scene in the early 2000s, they revolutionised personal transportation, but never quite caught on amongst the general public, due to the four-figure price and unwieldy bulk. Fastforward a decade and the progress of technology has led to a groundbreaking new device which is not only ergonomic, but also affordable – and already millions are talking about it. The Kruzer is a two-wheeled, hands-free, urban personal transportation device – much like a Segway, but without handlebars and with smaller wheels, enabling users to move around without lifting their legs. With a sleek, streamlined design, and two separate motors, riding a Kruzer is an experience unlike any other. Incredibly easy to handle, it uses gyroscopic technology to help the device stay upright and turn, all while retaining balance and steadiness. Two sensors – one under each foot pad – detect the micromovements in the user’s feet and ankles, and relay that information to the motors. To go forward, the user simply needs to point their toes down, while putting weight into the heels makes the device go
backwards. The sensors are incredibly active, and within minutes of riding the Kruzer, it begins to feel intuitive. Kruzers are also fitted with dual high-powered LEDs to illuminate the user’s path, while the top-of-the-range Samsung battery fitted within the device allows for several hours of continuous use. With a top speed of 10mph, the Kruzer allows users to achieve a constant running speed without moving their legs – and with seven-inch rubber tyres and a weight of just 10kg, the device is ergonomic, making it easy to handle, carry and store. Kruzer branded balance scooters are unique in that they use only the finest internal components carefully selected by our product development team, and they will happily replace defective devices within 14 days of purchase. They are so confident in their product that they offer a two-year warranty as standard. In addition, purchasing a Kruzer automatically enrols users in the company’s KruzerCare premium support service. This is a unique members-only club providing telephone and email support while also gifting access to competitions, giveaways and much more. Adopted by a number of major celebrities, including Justin Bieber, Wiz Khalifa, Lily Allen and Brooklyn Beckham, balance scooters – affectionately known as “hoverboards” – are the latest must-have accessories, a revolution in personal transportation. So what are you waiting for? Become a trendsetter by getting your hands on the unique Kruzer device, and enjoy the novel new way of travelling around!
20
Kruzer DPS V2.indd 20
03/11/2015 15:16
Get £20 o your order ff FREE deli and very Use the co ‘KRUZER de at checkou20’ t
tion u l o v e r rt o p s n a Embrace the tr
To purchase a Kruzer board, or for further information, visit
www.kruzer.co.uk
21
Kruzer DPS V2.indd 21
03/11/2015 15:16
BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE
YOUR NEW MAILBOX THE NEW LOOK MAILBOX IN THE HEART OF BIRMINGHAM IS HOME TO LUXURY FASHION, ENHANCED ENTERTAINMENT, AND AN EXTENSIVE RANGE OF BARS AND RESTAURANTS. WHETHER YOU’RE A CITY DWELLER OR WEEKEND VISITOR, THERE IS PLENTY TO EXCITE AND ENTICE VISITORS TO THE NEW MAILBOX.
FASHION THAT REFLECTS YOU The transformed retail environment is all about chic and elegant fashion that reflects you. The newly unveiled signature Harvey Nichols store has more than doubled in size, to house even more of your favourite aspirational and luxury brands, with increased menswear and personal shopping departments too. Featuring the very latest in retail technology and an innovative new layout engineered to capitalise on daylight, the flagship store delivers the very best in luxury to Birmingham.
Alongside Harvey Nichols, some of your favourite brands have also returned to the Mailbox with an exciting new look and extended ranges. Retailers including Hugo Boss, Emporio Armani, L.K. Bennett, Jaeger, Daniel Footwear, and Gieves and Hawkes are all available.
22
The Mailbox AW2015 .indd 22
30/10/2015 16:36
YOUR 24-7 DESTINATION Along with luxury fashion brands, your new Mailbox is a hub of entertainment with an exciting mix of bars, restaurants and a brand-new luxury three-screen cinema which opened in February. Everyman Cinema’s three-screens, signature sofa seating, enhanced food and drink offering and luxurious bar and lounge areas provide the ultimate silver screen experience, complete with the very latest in digital projection. Throughout the redevelopment, Mailbox remained the go-to destination for food and drink, offering a range of bars and restaurants in a vibrant and stylish setting. Whether it’s a quick bite to eat after shopping, after-work drinks with colleagues or a leisurely meal with loved ones, there’s something to suit every taste or mood. The newest addition to the range of canalside bars and restaurants is Gas Street Social, a neighbourhood urban kitchen inspired by the industrial and cultural context of Birmingham’s rich history. Serving up a seasonal taste of European sharing dishes, regional and international craft beers, fine wines and signature cocktails, Gas Street Social has been a popular addition to the Mailbox.
YOU TALKED, WE LISTENED One of the most significant changes to the look and feel of the new Mailbox is the new stunning, sky-lit glass roof. As well as providing protection from the sometimes unpredictable British weather, the roof creates a light and airy environment as the perfect backdrop for your luxury shopping. In addition to the roof, the redevelopment has transformed the entire retail mall, complete with new impressive shop window designs and sleek store frontages. An elegant but inviting space dubbed the “Urban Room” has been created to provide visitors with a comfortable place to relax, gather and dine in a stress-free environment, all under-cover.
IT’S ALL IN YOUR HANDS Visiting the new Mailbox won’t just be your ordinary shopping trip. Among the exciting redevelopments will be our use of integrated technology to create the ultimate experience for you. This technology will ensure you get what you want, when you want and wherever you want it, allowing us to give you the truly unique VIP experience that you deserve.
To be the first to know about the most up-to-date news and information, visit
www.mailboxlife.com 23
The Mailbox AW2015 .indd 23
30/10/2015 16:36
BEAUTY, HEALTH & LIFESTYLE
Roksanda Tamworth Gathered Duchess Satin Dress ÂŁ1,295
Forget plain and understated, this season the classic LBD goes contemporary to pack a real punch. From fringing and embellished patchwork to sophisticated tailoring and sequins, fashion’s festive staple certainly makes a statement. HARVEY NICHOLS BIRMINGHAM reveals the dresses guaranteed to create a wow at any Christmas party.
24
Harvey Nichols Womens Trends_v3.indd 24
03/11/2015 11:02
Alice and Olivia Floral Organza Dress £595
JW Anderson Skater Dress £795
Michael Kors Chain Embellished Dress £195
Stella McCartney Asymmetric Stretch Wool Dress £2,255
DKNY Embellished Patchwork Dress £390
Balmain Ruffled Velvet Dress £1,280
Michael Kors Sequinned Dress £275
Victoria Beckham Metallic Boucle Dress £745
MSGM Fringed Jacquard Tunic £355
RED Valentino Floral Macramé Dress £820
All products are available from Harvey Nichols either in store or online at harveynichols.com. The new showpiece Harvey Nichols at The Mailbox now offers customers the most impressive range of designer collections in the city. 25
Harvey Nichols Womens Trends_v3.indd 25
03/11/2015 11:02
BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE
Whether she’s been naughty or nice, spoil her with a gift to remember from HARVEY NICHOLS BIRMINGHAM. From fabulous fragrances and beauty must-haves to stylish clutch bags and killer heels, ensure her Christmas sparkles in style.
All products are available from Harvey Nichols Birmingham or online at harveynichols.com. This festive season the new showpiece store at The Mailbox will have a special Christmas shop featuring luxury gift ideas, hampers and exclusive decorations.
26
Harvey Nichols Gifts for her.indd 26
03/11/2015 11:04
Espa Zesty Lemon and Tonka Bean Candle £28
Glass Macaroon Decorations £15
Loeffler Randall Iridescent Clutch £305
Luna Di Seta Silk and Lace Chemise £145
Manolo Blahnik Satin Pumps £680
Michael Kors Gold Tone Watch £229
Moschino Rainbow Appliqué Leather Shoulder Bag £1,040
Moschino Teddy Bear Print Silk Scarf £155
Sophia Webster Sequinned Pumps £375
Sophie Hulme Pompom Keyring £150
Tom Ford Fleur De Portofino EDP £145 (50ml)
Yves Saint Laurent Couture Eye Shadow Palette £42.50
27
Harvey Nichols Gifts for her.indd 27
03/11/2015 11:04
BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE
Inspirational Magazine recently visited the Birmingham Harvey Nichols store to sample their latest beauty therapy offerings. Fully aware of the range of luxury treatment on offer, when invited by the store to try them out for ourselves, it was impossible to resist. Opting for the Diamond White Glowing Mask facial treatment, the calming, soothing and refreshing benefits the products professes to deliver were clearly evident straight away. We were particularly impressed with the therapist who delivered the treatment, completing the task with professionalism, care and attention to detail. The Diamond White Glowing Mask by Natura Bissé evens skin tone and texture whilst minimizing pores. The intense hydrating action created by the product helps to rebalance melanin distribution, leaving skin radiant with a terrific brightening effect. A truly luxurious product, the Diamond White Glowing Mask by Natura Bissé is only stocked by the nation’s most exclusive stores, so drop by Harvey Nichols and find out why this product is so sought after.
28
Spa.indd 28
Also available at Harvey Nichols as an on-counter treatment is the 8 minutes to great skin. A one off session using high quality vitamin C infused products from Natura Bissé involves effective exfoliation and pampering, thanks to a complex and a cream. The Natura Bissé C+C Vitamin Line used in the treatment is known to deliver exceptional results and feature truly outstanding products. From the treatment we received, the products on offer and the customer service experienced by all who visit Harvey Nichols, it is obvious why many rate them as a five star establishment. A perfect example of when designer fashion and beauty come together to deliver an environment scarcely found, the decision of whether to journey to Harvey Nichols is one that is very easy to make.
The Mailbox, 65 Wharfside St, Birmingham B1 1RE 0121 616 6000
29/10/2015 17:56
IT’S COOL TO CARE Fully traceable Canadian diamonds, beautifully set in precious Fairtrade Gold
Discover yours at
H. Johnson & Son, 50-51 Queens Road, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV11 5JX T: 02476 347038 www.johnsonsjewellers.co.uk
CMJ4159_JohnsonAdCURR.indd 1
GOLD CERTIFIED TO FAIRTRADE STANDARDS www.fairtrade.org.uk/gold
09/10/2015 12:31
BEAUTY HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE
For all walks of Life: The retail standing of SockShop Leading the way in the retail industry, Sock Shop is a retail powerhouse. Providing socks and accessories to both consumers and retailers alike, the company is revolutionary in its approach within the retail industry.
is a one stop shop for socks! Now counted as one of the greatest successes in British retail, SockShop was acquired by textile magnate, the Ruia Group, in 2006 where the brand shifted its attention online.
SockShop has an offering that is unmatched in the retail environment, the business is not simply a retailer and nor is it simply a brand in itself. Offering both own brand products and individual, new Sockshop owned brands, such as Heat Holders and Gentle Grip, as well as a huge selection of third party designer socks and accessories. SockShop also imports and sells on all these products to other distributors.
October 2015 has seen SockShop once again reunited with the British high street and a brand new standalone shop in Manchester’s Arndale Centre. A prime position to target British shoppers for all their sock and hosiery needs. This complement’s their large number of ‘shop in shops’ within department stores as well as supermarkets across the UK.
Created in 1983 by Sophie Mirman and Richard P. Ross, ShopSock started life at London’s Knightsbridge tube station. Within four years, SockShop dominated the high street with 52 stores around the country, all boasting a mantra that is continued today – SockShop
Now boasting the largest selection of socks on the planet, SockShop pride themselves on providing a sock for absolutely any requirement and are constantly on the lookout for innovative new products that stand out from the crowd and aren’t your standard accessory you can find on the high street.
30
Sockshop V3.indd 30
03/11/2015 11:11
SockShop have created a number of their own brands which have been extremely successful with customers, including: Heat Holders, these extremely warm socks have been dubbed ‘the ultimate thermal socks’ due to their incredible warming properties. Made to be over 7 x warmer than normal socks, they incorporate a patented three-stage process that ensures their socks average a 2.34 tog rating, the same ratings used to measure the warmth of duvets. Their success has led to the brand expanding their product range into all thermals including hats, gloves, blankets, jumpers, children’s and women’s tights as well as neck warmers. SockShop’s Gentle Grip range are stylish, comfy socks which don’t constrict legs or feet. Made with comfort in mind, the socks incorporate a specially devised Honeycomb Top which moulds to the contours of your leg, no digging in and no constriction marks! The company also has a host of own designed socks and accessories for every possible desire, from SockShop movie and character novelty socks and underwear, lettered and personalised socks, stockings, hold ups and tights as well as bamboo socks, right through to simple, colourful and quality socks for all ages and sexes; you’re sure to find the perfect accessory for you. Not only this but SockShop stocks popular fashion, sporting and as well as specialist products from designers such as Pretty Polly, Charnos, Falke, JEEP, Toesox, Sealskinz and Tommy Hilfiger, this retail sensation looks like it’s set to stay.
To grab the perfect pair of socks for any occasion, look no further than SockShop, for all walks of life: www.sockshop.co.uk
31
Sockshop V3.indd 31
03/11/2015 11:11
BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE
Over the last decade the lingerie and underwear market has focussed primarily on products for women with plus sized cups. Established manufacturers have extended their ranges up to K cups and beyond, while intimate apparel retailers have designated separate full bust or plus size shopping sections both online and in stores. All the focus towards the higher end of the alphabet scale, however, has not addressed the needs of a different group of lingerie consumers. Smaller-busted women have seldom had many choices when it comes to intimate apparel, with few established brands stocking more than a handful of A to AAA bras. Many women who possess smaller busts feel that there is nothing for them in the underwear stakes apart from teenage training bras, or that they are less feminine unless they can accentuate their busts by wearing cleavage enhancing underwear or unnatural boob enhancers. Little Women is an online specialist lingerie retailer with more than two decades’ experience in providing smaller-busted women with gorgeous lingerie, and over the last twenty years the outcome has always been the same for their customers – they feel feminine, grown up, coordinated and truly special. The business was born in the 1990s when media coverage even then focussed on bigger boobs. The “bigger is better” mentality prevailed, but it had a negative effect on those who were a B cup or smaller, as they were made to feel as they were not real women. Little Women knew that, despite all the figures being released indicating that the average UK bra size was at least a D cup, many, many women measure AAA, AA, A or B and have major difficulty in finding beautiful bras and swimwear that fits. Fast-forward twenty years and what began as a tentative mail order collection specialising in petite lingerie has now blossomed into a successful website stocking a wide range of styles specifically designed for women in 28 to 40 AA, A and B cups as well as, Little Women’s own exclusive range in sizes 32 – 40 AAA, AA and A cups. Little Women stock well-known brands such as B’tempted, Triumph, Royce, After Eden, Boobs & Bloomers, Silhouette, Sloggi and Sportjock – all carefully selected to complement the company’s own brand by offering gorgeous styles in smaller cups to customers. The collections on the website are exclusive to Little Women and you won’t find them anywhere else. They have been designed specifically in small cup sizes with matching briefs and thongs and they are produced in small quantities on a seasonal basis - once they’re gone, they’re gone!
32
little women DPS v3.indd 32
29/10/2015 19:44
To find out more about
visit the website
www.littlewomen.com or contact by telephone on
0115 978 8057 or by email at
enquiries@littlewomen.com 33
little women DPS v3.indd 33
29/10/2015 19:44
BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE
OFFERING A SPECIFIC
EXPERIENCE
Architecture, design, service, gastronomy and the perfect Birmingham location come together like interlocking pieces of a puzzle to form a consistent and coherent concept.
T: 0121 718 8000
E: hello@hotel-latour.co.uk
www.hotel-latour.co.uk
34
Hotel LaTour 4PS V4.indd 34
03/11/2015 11:15
A Birmingham city centre boutique hotel designed and managed to create truly great memories and experiences for guests, Hotel La Tour has become known for its first class service and wonderfully designed rooms. Inspirational Magazine recently stayed at Hotel La Tour and gained first hand experience of why the hotel has become so successful.
Enjoying a warm welcome as we arrived in the impressive lobby, our initial impression set the tone for the time we would spend at Hotel La Tour perfectly. After checking in, heading to the bar area to sample the hotel’s Afternoon Tea was too much of a temptation to resist. An elegant occasion filled with the best of British produce, the dainty and delicious sandwiches, scones and sweet treats went perfectly with the addition of a glass of Champagne. The beauty of Afternoon Tea is how easy and enjoyable the passing of time becomes - sit back, relax and allow yourself to take in all this British tradition has to offer. Hotel La Tour really is a home from home. Feeling totally relaxed in the knowledge that the staff can cater to almost any request becomes the norm during your stay. We took the decision to tour the hotel after our Afternoon Tea, dropping by the gym as well as the hotel’s extensive offering for corporate clients, including the numerous Auden Rooms, that deliver comprehensive conference and meeting room facilities. Evening was now upon us and the only place to be was the hotel’s bar and fabulous new Marco Pierre White Restaurant, named Mr. White’s English Chophouse. The choice of cocktails, wines and beers on offer at the hotel are in abundant supply, with bar staff that can create your favourite drinks with considerable aplomb. It is clearly evident that Mr. White’s English Chophouse has been shaped to suit diners who enjoy an all encompassing experience, with beverages to match the dishes of your choice and waiting staff that possess great knowledge of the delicacies the kitchen delivers. Diners at Mr. Whites English Chophouse are right to feel that they are enjoying the cutting edge of modern day cuisine, with the finest culinary techniques employed to ensure guests leave thoroughly impressed by their meal. After dinner, we retreated to our rooms. In order to sample all the hotel has to offer, we opted for a suite with terrific views of the city and park. The suite gives an unparalleled feeling of space and luxury, a theme that is carried through to the quality of furniture. The luxurious bed and mattress ensures a deep and re-energising sleep, an asset that is hugely warranted, especially with all the activities Birmingham has on offer throughout the day. The hotel’s city centre location is another string to its bow, making it the obvious choice for both corporate and leisure markets. The variety of transport links on the hotel’s doorstep combined with the convenience of how close the city’s major attractions are means that Hotel La tour is one of the most desirable establishments to stay within Birmingham. Our stay and experience at Hotel La Tour was as impressive and comprehensive as we had expected, based on the reputation the hotel already enjoys. A trip to Birmingham should never be without Hotel La Tour, and finding out why that is will only ever be a pleasure.
35
Hotel LaTour 4PS V4.indd 35
03/11/2015 11:15
BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE
LUXURIOUS BEDROOMS. DELICIOUS FOOD AND DRINK. FIVE-STAR CUSTOMER SERVICE. A FLOOR SPECIALLY ENGINEERED FOR BUSINESS CONFERENCES. CONVENIENTLY LOCATED IN THE HEART OF ENGLAND’S SECOND CITY. WHAT MORE REASON DO YOU NEED TO PICK HOTEL LA TOUR BIRMINGHAM? Birmingham is going places. The largest British city outside London,
minute walk from New Street Station, which also has seven services
boasting a population of over a million, an illustrious past at the
per hour from Birmingham International Airport, making it perfect for
heart of worldwide advances in science, technology and economic
international visitors.
development, and a host of economic and cultural developments in the pipeline all make the capital of the Midlands a must-visit destination.
When it comes to preparing ahead of a day or evening out, or returning tired from your activities, Hotel La Tour is the perfect sanctuary. With
Hotel La Tour Birmingham ticks all these boxes and more. Situated
174 luxurious bedrooms boasting queen-sized beds, air conditioning,
a short distance from the landmark Bullring Shopping Centre, its
touchscreen amenities, flat-screen televisions with live recording and
location puts you at the very heart of the city, allowing quick access
free wi-fi, it has all the facilities needed to relax and unwind – and for
to all the places you want to see, from bars and restaurants to
those who fancy a little more indulgence, the hotel also boasts Superior
museums and libraries. Leisure guests will never be short of things to
and Suite rooms with extra deep baths and complimentary bottle of
do, with Hotel La Tour a stone’s throw away from attractions such as
wine and chocolates.
The Thinktank, Sea Life Centre and Cadbury World, not to mention the luxurious Selfridges. For those who want to venture out further,
Hotel La Tour is not just for pleasure, mind. With Birmingham being
Hotel La Tour is located directly next to Moor Street Station and a five-
the focal point of the Midlands’ economy, there is a lot of business to be conducted, and with this mind, they have created The Auden Rooms conference and events floor. Dedicated exclusively to business and events, it provides an environment for meetings, conferences,
36
Hotel LaTour 4PS V4.indd 36
03/11/2015 11:15
training and other corporate events. The Auden Rooms features
Hotel La Tour has also become a firm favourite on the afternoon
a stylish business lounge where delegates are met by event hosts.
tea circuit with its elegant High Tea selection, which offers a return
Refreshments are served in breakout areas throughout the day – event
to elegance with a sumptuous smorgasbord of afternoon savouries
organisers can choose from a buffet-style conference lunch or dining
and sweet treats served on eye-catching three tiered silver stands.
in the restaurant.
Initially launched as part of a ‘Best of British’ season to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the sporting triumphs of the London
The largest conference room can accommodate up to 140 delegates
Olympics, High Tea proved such a hit that it is now served every day,
theatre style and The Auden Rooms can be booked for private dining
with charming piano performances at the weekend. Hotel La Tour now
events for up to 120 people. High-spec acoustic walling ensures
also offer a Gentleman’s Afternoon Tea, suited to guests who prefer
delegates won’t be disturbed or overheard, and all rooms have
only savoury elements of this British tradition, yet again showing the
natural daylight, HD screens, wireless and wired internet access, and
Hotel’s desire to make everyone feel at home.
touchscreen remote controls for temperature, blinds and lighting. The Auden Rooms also has a roof terrace, executive boardrooms and video
Catering for every type of guest including international travellers
conferencing facilities for up to four destinations on large HD screens.
touring Europe, couples enjoying a weekend break in England’s second
For tourists who fancy some delicious quick food and refreshing
city, groups of friends eager to enjoy the bright lights of Birmingham’s
drinks, or for businesspeople who want to unwind in a chilled-out
nightlife and businesspeople attending conferences and requiring a
environment, the Hotel Bar is there to cater for all needs.
place to stay, Hotel La Tour Birmingham is the undisputed choice for accommodation in the city – and with room-only prices starting from
However, sometimes a quick snack just won’t do. If you want to sit down and lose yourself in savouring every single bite of a gorgeous meal, Mr White’s English Chophouse is the place to be. An elegant hideout for amazingly succulent steaks, tempting meat and fish dishes
just £79, it won’t break the bank either. So what are you waiting for? Book a stay at Hotel La Tour and discover Birmingham’s sights in style, in comfort and in luxury!
and a fantastic glass of wine, nothing encapsulates the feeling of pure luxury dining at Mr White’s English Chophouse.
Albert Street, Birmingham B5 5JT T: 0121 718 8000 E: hello@hotel-latour.co.uk www.hotel-latour.co.uk 37
Hotel LaTour 4PS V4.indd 37
03/11/2015 11:15
BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE
KEITH DUFFY Inspirational Magazine takes a closer look at Boyzone star, accomplished actor and well-known celebrity, Keith Duffy. Bursting into the public spotlight and gaining worldwide fame as a key member of boy band Boyzone in 1993, Keith Duffy has enjoyed a starstudded career at the forefront of entertainment in the UK and Ireland. Spotted by band manager Louis Walsh, Duffy’s successful audition saw him form Boyzone alongside Ronan Keating, Mikey Graham, Shane Lynch and Stephen Gateley. Rising to international stardom in 1994 with the release of a cover version of the classic Osmonds’ hit Love Me For a Reason, Boyzone hit No.2 in the charts, with the single included a year later on their hit debut album, Said and Done. Building on the success of their debut album, Boyzone released A Different Beat, bringing the band their second instalment of worldwide success, grossing 2 million album copies in a smorgasbord of countries. The successful second album also brought the band their first taste of a UK No.1 - a cover of the Bee Gees hit, Words. Boyzone were enjoying the pinnacle of fame in the UK and Ireland and could do no wrong, releasing five more hit singles, performing at the Eurovision song contest and even breaking into the US market with their very own version of Mystical Experience, a track the boys also recorded in Spanish.
1998 saw Boyzone’s third studio album, Where We Belong, selling 3 million copies worldwide, surpassing the band’s previous record for album sales in the process. It was during this time the band released No Matter What, a track originally written for Lord Lloyd Webber’s musical, Whistle Down the Wind. No Matter What was the band’s best ever selling record, amassing 4 million copies worldwide. At the turn of the millennium, members of the group decided to take some time off to pursue individual careers. Duffy had always desired to pursue a career in acting, and his on-screen talent was instantly obvious, turning what should have been a three week stint on Coronation Street into a drama filled three years between 2002-2005. Starring as loveable Irish rogue Ciaran McCarthy, Keith described his heart-throb character by stating he would ‘chat-up’, “anything that walks by that’s at all attractive or in a skirt”. Duffy’s time playing Ciaran saw him tied up in plots involving romances and affairs. The conviction Keith played the character with led to him being nominated for the ‘Best Soap Newcomer’ at the 2002 TV Quick Awards. The following years after Coronation Street saw Keith take to the stage, playing the title role in The Wizard of Oz alongside regular appearances in Irish Soap Operas, before joining
38
Keith Duffy DPS v3.indd 38
03/11/2015 11:17
Performing at the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship 2015
his band mates to reform Boyzone in 2008. Announcing the intention to return with their Back Again… No Matter What tour, the boys sold over 200,000 tickets in less than three hours. A resounding success, the tour gave Boyzone’s huge fan base the chance to relive all of their favourite songs, and reminded everyone why the band has remained so popular even during their hiatus.
Inspirational Magazine had the pleasure of meeting Keith Duffy at the recent Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship. Participating in the Celeb-Am on the Friday of the competition, Keith enjoyed the challenge of Nailcote Hall’s difficult Cromwell Course. A true showman, Keith even took to the stage later that evening, giving a rendition of Billy Joel’s Piano Man with Golfer Mark Murphy in aid of charity.
After appearing in his first major feature film, Loftus Hall in 2010, Keith reprised his role as Ciaran on Coronation Street - the next eleven months on the show would gave Duffy the chance to live up to his character’s previous reputation, helped by the gripping storylines he became involved with. Duffy was now balancing his commitments as an actor and member of Boyzone, leading to the group touring in February and March of 2011 and subsequently putting his on-screen character aside until a final return to evening television between September and November 2011.
A natural entertainer, Duffy is just at home in front of thousands in an arena as he is appearing on the televisions of millions. Having been lucky to witness Keith’s inherent talent’s ourselves, we are in no doubt that he would make a fitting addition to any corporate or social event, television broadcast or musical production.
Duffy’s prominent position in the UK and Ireland’s entertainment industry is clearly evident, having appeared on the second series of ITV’s Splash, as well as exercising his acting credentials in UK hit film, Mrs. Brown’s Boys D’Movie, taking nearly US$30 million in box office revenue.
To book Boyzone star Keith Duffy, simply contact Catherine Mitchell at Champions (UK) plc today by calling 07824 163 193 or 08453 31 30 31 Alternatively, email cmitchell@championsukplc.com
39
Keith Duffy DPS v3.indd 39
03/11/2015 11:18
O F F I C I A L H O S P I TA L I T Y P R O V I D E R F O R B A R C L AYC A R D A R E N A A N D G E N T I N G A R E N A
MÖTLEY CRÜE
GENTING ARENA - 4 NOV
KEVIN BRIDGES
BARCLAYCARD ARENA - 6 NOV
HARRY ENFIELD & PAUL WHITEHOUSE
BARCLAYCARD ARENA - 7 NOV
WWE LIVE
GENTING ARENA - 8 NOV
IMAGINE DRAGONS
BARCLAYCARD ARENA - 20 NOV
22 YEARS OF REEVES & MORTIMER
BARCLAYCARD ARENA - 23 NOV
PAUL WELLER
BARCLAYCARD ARENA - 27 NOV
FREE RADIO LIVE
GENTING ARENA - 28 NOV
MUMFORD & SONS
GENTING ARENA - 30 NOV
FAITHLESS
BARCLAYCARD ARENA - 2 DEC
PRODIGY
BARCLAYCARD ARENA - 3 DEC
DURAN DURAN
GENTING ARENA - 4 DEC
STATUS QUO
BARCLAYCARD ARENA - 5 DEC
ROY WOOD ROCKMAS
BARCLAYCARD ARENA - 6 DEC
STEREOPHONICS
GENTING ARENA - 11 DEC
STRICTLY COME DANCING LIVE
BARCLAYCARD ARENA 22-24th January 2016 MONSTER ENERGY ARENACROSS TOUR
GENTING ARENA - 23-24 JAN 16
THE LIBERTINES
BARCLAYCARD ARENA - 27 JAN 16
JASON DERULO
BARCLAYCARD ARENA - 30 JAN 16
BLACK STONE CHERRY SHINEDOWN/HALESTORM BARCLAYCARD ARENA - 2 FEB 16
SLIPKNOT
GENTING ARENA - 12 FEB 16
ALL TIME LOW
BARCLAYCARD ARENA - 13 FEB 16
FOALS
BARCLAYCARD ARENA - 19 FEB 16
WET WET WET
GENTING ARENA - 26 FEB 16
DYNAMO
BARCLAYCARD ARENA - 9-13 DEC
DEF LEPPARD / WHITESNAKE GENTING ARENA - 12 DEC
SIMPLY RED
GENTING ARENA - 13 & 15 DEC
ANDRÉ RIEU
GENTING ARENA - 16 DEC
MADONNA
BARCLAYCARD ARENA - 16 DEC
CINDERELLA
BARCLAYCARD ARENA - 20-24 DEC
KEVIN HART
BARCLAYCARD ARENA - 15 JAN 16
LAST NIGHT A DJ SAVED MY LIFE
BARCLAYCARD ARENA - 16 JAN 16
THE CORRS
GENTING ARENA - 19 JAN 16
Amplify.indd 40
YONEX ALL ENGLAND OPEN BADMINTON CHAMPIONSHIPS BARCLAYCARD ARENA 8-13th March 2016
03/11/2015 11:19
0844 338 0333
amplify.co.uk
V I P H O S P I TA L I T Y
EXPERIENCES
CRUFTS 2016
GENTING ARENA 10-15th March 2016 LITTLE MIX
GENTING ARENA – 18 MARCH 16
ELLIE GOULDING
BARCLAYCARD ARENA - 21 MAR 16
THE VAMPS
GENTING ARENA - 25-26 MARCH 16
A-HA
BARCLAYCARD ARENA - 29 MARCH 16
JANET JACKSON
BARCLAYCARD ARENA - 30 MARCH 16
YEARS & YEARS
BARCLAYCARD ARENA - 1 APR 16
MUSE
BARCLAYCARD ARENA - 2 APRIL 16
LITTLE MIX
GENTING ARENA - 3 APRIL 16
5 SECONDS OF SUMMER GENTING ARENA - 14 FEB 16
2016 BETWAY PREMIER LEAGUE DARTS
B ARCLAYCARD ARENA - 28 APRIL 16
DIXIE CHICKS
B ARCLAYCARD ARENA - 29 APRIL 16
BRYAN ADAMS
B ARCLAYCARD ARENA - 30 APRIL 16
HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS B ARCLAYCARD ARENA - 30 APRIL 16
UB40 FEATURING ALI CAMPBELL, ASTRO AND MICKEY
BARCLAYCARD ARENA - 1 MAY 16
THE SESSIONS
BARCLAYCARD ARENA - 13 MAY 16
BILL BAILEY
BARCLAYCARD ARENA - 3 JUN 16
BARRY MANILOW
GENTING ARENA - 18 JUN 16
SPANISH RIDING SCHOOL OF VIENNA
BARCLAYCARD ARENA - 18-10 NOV 16
Amplify.indd 41
03/11/2015 11:19
BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE
AA SMALL HOTEL GROUP OF THE YEAR 2014 - 2015
Each hotel in the collection has been selected for the unique qualities it offers; the beautiful architecture, outstanding food, peaceful surroundings and the sense of total escape and relaxation we offer each and every guest who step into our hotels. Whilst each property in the collection has its own unique character and personality, all uphold the impeccable standards of service, quality and attention to detail for which the Eden Hotel Collection is renowned and our guests return time and time again to stay with us and experience their own unique version of what Eden has to offer. Mallory Court is the matriarch of the hotels and has a pedigree and history that has long been associated with great hotel keeping. Guests to Mallory inevitably fall in love with this 31 bedroom country house hotel in the heart of Warwickshire. Buckland Tout-Saints is a stunning William and Mary manor house only a short drive from the coast and the international sailing centre of Salcombe. The 16 bedroom hotel is the jewel in the crown of this breath-taking corner of Devon.
The Kings Hotel is an idyllic town house combining traditional character with contemporary style to create a relaxed and welcoming home away from home in the beautiful village of Chipping Campden, Cotswolds. The Arden Hotel is an elegant and sophisticated 45 bedroom boutique hotel in the birthplace of William Shakespeare. The Arden’s sophisticated and contemporary take on a boutique hotel has won her admirers from across the globe. With the RSC for a neighbour what theatre goer could ask for more? Brockencote Hall is a newly refurbished Victorian country manor house hotel is set in 70 acres of beautiful parkland, complete with a scenic lake, tennis court and restored dovecote. The award-winning dining experience is enhanced by panoramic rural views across the estate and a superb wine cellar. The Greenway Hotel and Spa is a 16th century luxury Elizabethan manor house hotel and spa. The 21 bedroom hotel, with its warm Cotswold stone exterior is the picture of English country charm and lies in eight acres of stunning grounds with views over the rolling Cotswold Hills.
The Mount Somerset Hotel and Spa is a stunning 19 bedroom Regency country house hotel, set in four acres of beautiful grounds. With its high ceilings, sweeping spiral staircase, opulent decor and a feeling of gentle elegance and luxury, The Mount Somerset has all the characteristics of a quintessential English Regency mansion. Bovey Castle is a country estate situated on Dartmoor National Park. The luxury resort boasts private country lodges, a host of outdoor pursuits including shooting and falconry, an 18 hole championship golf course and a newly refurbished spa. Mallory Court Hotel - Leamington Spa, Warwickshire Buckland-Tout-Saints - Kingsbridge, Devon The Kings Hotel - Chipping Campden, Cotswolds The Arden Hotel - Stratford-upon-Avon Brockencote Hall Hotel - Worcestershire The Greenway Hotel and Spa - Cheltenham The Mount Somerset Hotel and Spa - Somerset Bovey Castle – Dartmoor National Park, Devon
42
Eden Hotel aw 2015 DPS v4.indd 42
30/10/2015 16:41
Introducing Elan Spas at Eden Hotel Collection
The Gentlemen’s Quarter at Bovey Castle
Lavish, fabulous and totally Eden…we have launched Elan Spas across our collection at The Greenway, The Mount Somerset and Bovey Castle.
At Bovey Castle, pampering isn’t just about the women. The Gentlemen’s Quarter is an exclusive retreat for the discerning gent.
Our spas all offer a deeply relaxing environment, luxurious treatment rooms, saunas and steam rooms and each offer something a little different. Try The Mount Somerset for a relaxing foot spa or soothing hydrotherapy pool whilst The Greenway Hotel offers a champagne nail bar and outdoor hot tub. Bovey Castle’s newly renovated spa has an Art Deco pool and features a dedicated male grooming area – the ‘Gentlemen’s Quarter’, offering traditional male treatments such as a wet shave using Truefitt & Hill products.
The spa refurbishment at Bovey Castle has introduced a dedicated area for men’s treatments, unique amongst country house hotels. The traditional treatments, including a luxury wet shave, use Truefitt & Hill, a British company with over two centuries of heritage providing luxury, high end gentleman’s grooming products. Elan Spa at Bovey Castle also offers an extensive range of body treatments and full massages specifically tailored to men so gentlemen, come and take some time out!
Reader Offer at Bovey Castle
Enjoy a two night break with an opportunity to dine in our two brand new restaurants! Break includes three course dinner, bed and breakfast, with dinner in the Great Western one night and Smith’s Brasserie on the other night. Call Bovey Castle to book on 01647 445 000 quoting ‘Inspirational Magazine’
£250 perfor person
two nights at Bovey Castle Terms and Conditions apply. Valid Sunday – Thursday only. Priced based on two people sharing a classic room. Supplements will apply for Friday and Saturday nights. Subject to availability, valid until 31st October 2016.
At each property you will experience the kind of luxury and service you have come to expect from our hotels. Our experienced therapists offer a range of sumptuous treatments using ESPA products in peaceful, calming surroundings.
Brockencote Hall Mallory Court The Arden
Give the gift of Eden
The Kings Hotel
Looking for the perfect present for the person who has everything and enjoys the finer things in life? Look no further than online gift vouchers with Eden Hotel Collection!
The Greenway Hotel & Spa
You can select vouchers for a range of fabulous treats including afternoon tea for two, spa days at our Elan Spas, an luxury overnight break or fine dining vouchers for a foodie. We also offer monetary vouchers so they can choose their own experience at our hotels. The beauty of buying online means that your vouchers are swiftly delivered to your inbox, perfect if you’ve forgotten a special occasion or can’t face the shops. Vouchers start from £20.00. Visit www.edenhotelcollection.com to buy your vouchers online.
The Mount Somerset Hotel & Spa
Bovey Castle
Buckland Tout-Saints
www.edenhotelcollection.com Gift vouchers available to buy online!
Eden Hotel aw 2015 DPS v4.indd 43
43
30/10/2015 16:41
Flying the flag for Fairtrade In this day and age, more and more people opt for the ethical choice when considering their purchases, as a collective wave of social responsibility continues to sweep the nation. We make a conscious effort to find out where and how our clothes are made, and apply similarly rigorous checks to our food. But why not adopt the same ethical principles when it comes to the ultimate luxury – jewellery? Johnsons Jewellers are passionate about adhering to Fairtrade standards by working with ethical suppliers and jewellery production companies. Showcasing their commitment and dedication to Fairtrade, Johnsons Jewellers recently acquired the pioneering diamond jewellery brand, Arctic Circle. Exquisitely crafted using fully traceable Canadian diamonds and Fairtrade gold, Arctic Circle’s elegant new collection is leading a new era of ethical, socially responsible jewellery to stand by their motto It’s Cool to Care. On Friday 16th October, Johnsons Jewellers demonstrated their commitment to the workers at the source of the gold mining by hosting Josephine Aguti, a Fairtrade gold miner from Uganda. Josephine’s skillful work has helped create the responsibly crafted
Johnsons Jewellers Fair trade Feature DPS V2.indd 44
Arctic Circle jewellery sold in store at Johnsons Jewellers and visited the UK to experience where the jewellery is available. Josephine visited manufacturers Hockley Mint in Birmingham, where she saw the gold she mined being crafted into rings before visiting Johnsons Jewellers where she witnessed the Arctic Circle range, the product of her labour, on display in the window. Johnsons invited local school children to their store to hear about what it’s like to work in a gold mine, as well as what benefits she has seen to her working conditions, and the wider community under the Fairtrade project. Johnsons Jewellers fully acknowledge that there would be no jewellery without the men and women who mine the materials
30/10/2015 16:45
at source, and remain fiercely committed to ensuring that their working conditions are as good as can be, and that their communities obtain maximum benefit from their hard work. Johnsons Jewellers are home to a number of prestigious watch and jewellery brands including Rolex, Tudor, Tag Heuer, Breitling, Longines, Raymond Weil, Arctic Circle, Michael Kors, Hot Diamonds, Hearts on Fire and Swarovski, to name a few. They pride themselves on their vast knowledge of brands and jewellery and their commitment to excellent customer service.
Accompanying their prestigious selection of brand new watch brands, Johnsons Jewellers also offers a lovely array of pre-owned watches from Rolex, Tag Heuer and Breitling which is the perfect way to enter into the prestigious timepiece market. Whether you visit Johnsons Jewellers online or in store, their professionalism and quality of brands are sure to capture your attention.
The jewellers has built a reputation as an innovator in the industry and have recently refurbished their store to a sleek and modern standard which heightens the already impeccable service Johnsons Jewellers delivers to each and every one of their clients.
H Johnson & Son • 50-51 Queens Road • Nuneaton • Warwickshire • CV11 5JX
Tel: 02476 347 038 • johnsonsjewellers.co.uk Johnsons Jewellers Fair trade Feature DPS V2.indd 45
30/10/2015 16:45
Beautiful, Elegant, Sophisticated Solihull’s largest and most successful salon is offering Inspirational Magazine readers a chance to experience a fantastic haircut, on their first visit for half price. Simply quote:
/rwhairsolihull
#INSPIRATIONAL When you book your appointment.
@RWallaceHair
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
Richard Wallace Ad v3.indd 47
29/10/2015 18:48
BELGRAVIA AT ITS BEST
Located in one of London’s most exclusive neighbourhoods, Jumeirah Lowndes Hotel offers a warm welcome with a choice of stylish guest rooms and suites. Enjoy all-day dining in Lowndes Bar & Kitchen or take a dip in the indoor swimming pool or Jacuzzi at the nearby Peak Health Club & Spa. For more information, visit jumeirah.com or call +44 (0)20 7823 1234
48-49 Jumeirah Carlton Hotel DPS.indd 48
30/10/2015 12:37
UNMISTAKABLY LONDON. DISTINCTIVELY JUMEIRAH.
Experience the ultimate London stay at Jumeirah Carlton Tower, Knightsbridge. Indulge yourself at The Peak Health Club & Spa with indoor swimming pool, steam room, sauna and Jacuzzi. The luxurious rooms and suites offer stunning views over London and dine in style at the award-winning Rib Room Bar & Restaurant.
Visit jumeirah.com or call 020 7235 1234 to find out more.
48-49 Jumeirah Carlton Hotel DPS.indd 49
30/10/2015 12:37
BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE
PURVA KARMA TREATMENT ENGLAND’S LEADING RESORT 2015
The award-winning Belfry Hotel and resort, surrounded by 500 acres of Sutton Coldfield countryside, is renowned for its classic interior, vast space and rooms to make every guest feel special. Inside the Hotel there is a luxurious spa, offering a range of different treatments that allow you to leave your everyday stresses at the door. Here at Inspirational Magazine we did exactly this, when we recently visited the hotel’s spa. The Spa has received 125 coveted awards in the last 3 years which made choosing from their vast selection of treatments a tough choice. We opted for the Purva Karma treatment, a four hand massage. Don’t worry, we were baffled too at first. Four hands? How does that work? But once the treatment started, we certainly didn’t regret our decision. The Purva Karma treatment lasts a full two hours and is carried out by two therapists, who work together to ensure you feel deeply relaxed. We were extremely impressed with the professionalism of the therapists, they made us feel comfortable and at ease from the moment the treatment started, right up until we left.
50
Belfry Spa Treatment.indd 50
The use of four hands instead of two means that the senses in the body are targeted at a quicker rate, and more regularly, increasing the intensity of the massage. During the treatment the therapists synchronised together, using long deep strokes. Their hands worked in rhythmical kneading, stretching and rolling movements which they can tailor to suit every client’s comfort. The massage focuses on the face, body and scalp aiming to give a heightened spiritual relaxation on the vital energy points. The soothing ESPA Body Oil that is used, allowed their hands to glide over the skin, and the soft scents of almond and warming sensation sent us into a blissful sleep. It also leaves the skin feeling soft and supple too! The Belfry Spa has 11 treatment rooms, and the ambience of the room during our Purva Karma treatment topped off the fantastic experience. The dim lighting, lit candles and spongy massage tables allowed us to completely wind down. After our treatment, the everyday aches and pains had vanished and we left the spa, feeling like a much more refreshed version of ourselves. We just wish we could have stayed longer!
For any enquiries or to book a treatment at The Belfry Hotel’s spa contact: t. 0844 980 0600 e. enquiries@thebelfry.com
03/11/2015 11:22
ENGLAND’S LEADING RESORT 2015
The Spa at The Belfry The Belfry Spa is the perfect place to relax and unwind. With luxurious treatment rooms, an elegant relaxation room and stylish finishing studio, everything has been designed to spoil you from top to toe.
Belfryhotel
TheBelfryHotel
the-belfry-golf-resort 51
Belfry DPS Grill and Spa.indd 51
29/10/2015 19:11
BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE
In June 2015, Champions took a huge leap forward in the music industry by signing the pop sensation, Blue. As one of the most successful boybands of all time, the four piece achieved global success and amassed an impressive nine top 5 singles and three number 1 albums in the UK. The boys took a short hiatus in 2005, but now they are back and about to celebrate their 15th anniversary. 52
Blue DPS V2.indd 52
29/10/2015 19:55
The band was formed in 2000 and their debut single ‘All Rise’ was released the following year, reaching number 4 in the UK Singles Chart. Their next two singles ‘Too Close’ and ‘If You Come Back’ both shot to number 1 and their debut album also reached the top of the charts, selling in excess of 1.8 million copies in the UK alone. Their reputation was cemented when they collaborated with musical legends, producing ‘Sorry Seems to be the Hardest Word’ with vocals from Elton John and also ‘Signed, Sealed, Delivered, I’m Yours’ featuring vocals from Stevie Wonder. Blue are renowned for smooth harmonies and a combination of pop, rap and R&B. The group had a number of top hits, including ‘One Love’, ‘Get Down on It’ and ‘Breathe Easy’. The band members have also achieved individual success. Antony has a diverse history, starting out as an actor on the BBC children’s programme Grange Hill. Antony released solo material which included a top 20 single. He has completed a solo tour and become a high profile media personality after appearing on shows such as I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here and Never Mind the Buzzcocks. More recently he has been playing the lead role of Mickey Johnstone in the long-running West End musical, Blood-Brothers. His fellow band-member Duncan James also produced solo material. ‘I Believe my Heart’ which peaked at number 2 in the UK Singles Chart. He then turned his attention to modelling, acting and presenting, going on to have successful stints in West End musicals such as Legally Blonde and Chicago. Reality TV beckoned for Duncan and he reached the grand final of Dancing on Ice, narrowly missing out on the title. The third member Lee Ryan also released hugely successful solo material. His debut single ‘Army of Lovers’ peaked at number 3 in the UK charts. He even saw his track ‘Real Love’ featured as the lead song in the film Ice Age: The Meltdown. Lee also appeared as a media personality, featuring on shows such as Loose Women, Hell’s Kitchen and Friday Night with Jonathan Ross. His most recent venture was on Celebrity Big Brother in 2014.
The final band member Simon Webbe achieved incredible success as a solo artist and produced an album titled Sanctuary that went double platinum and featured two top 5 singles. His second album featured the track ‘Ride the Storm’ which was chosen as the lead song for the film Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer. The two albums sold over 1 million copies in the UK alone. He is currently performing in pantomime and in 2014 reached the final of Strictly Come Dancing. The band was reunited when they represented the UK in the 2011 Eurovision Song Contest, a year that also marked their 10th anniversary. They embarked upon the reality TV programme ‘The Big Reunion’. The entire show sold out in under 5 minutes. This proved that the boys never left the hearts of fans around the world and persuaded them to embark upon a nationwide tour of their own. Blue joined a list of acts exclusively signed to Champions Music & Entertainment, including 2013 X Factor winner Sam Bailey and soul singer Andy Abraham. Following the launch of the Music and Entertainment arm in 2014, Champions have cemented their position as a major force in the industry. The new site, www.musicandbands.co.uk, features in excess of 1500 acts spanning categories ranging from DJs to magicians. The industry leading music and entertainment agency has unrivalled access to prominent solo artists, celebrities and entertainers designed to make any event truly unforgettable. Ranging from a magician for a children’s party, to an orchestral band to walk down the aisle to at your wedding, Champions has something to suit every occasion.
For more information on Blue, simply contact Cat Mitchell at Champions (UK) plc today by calling 07824 163 193 or 08453 31 30 31. Alternatively, email cmitchell@championsukplc.com
53
Blue DPS V2.indd 53
29/10/2015 19:55
BRIT AWARDS 2016 WET WET WET ELLIE GOULDING JANET JACKSON MUSE UB40 BRYAN ADAMS KEVIN HART DISNEY ON ICE MORE ACTS TO BE ANNOUNCED LITTLE MIX THE LIBERTINES FOR 2016. ENNIO MORRICONE STRICTLY COME DANCING
o2_DPS.indd 54
29/10/2015 19:14
GET ACCESS TO EVERY SINGLE PUBLIC SHOW... SNAP UP THE BEST SEATS FOR THE WORLD’S MOST POPULAR MUSIC, SPORT & COMEDY EVENTS... IT DOESN’T MATTER WHAT YOU’RE INTO, YOU’LL FIND SOMETHING TO SUIT YOUR TASTE... So party with Ellie Goulding. Cheer on sporting heroes. Laugh at Kevin Hart. And treat your clients, colleagues and friends to an evening they won’t forget.
LET YOUR ACCOUNT MANAGER LOOK AFTER YOU Booking shows. Valet parking. Making dinner reservations. Your account manager will do everything they can to make sure you live the VIP lifestyle.
Our VIP club is the easiest way to guarantee a seat for the world’s best entertainment in Europe’s greatest venue.
UPGRADE TO A SUITE Wow up to 21 guests on special occasions. Try out the suites when they’re available.
GET ACCESS TO EVERY SINGLE PUBLIC EVENT Order your tickets before everyone else. For face value. So you can get in even if your show’s going to sell out. GO TO TEN SHOWS AT NO EXTRA COST Get ten shows of your choice included. SNAP UP THE BEST SEATS IN THE HOUSE Put the seating plan away. No matter what the event, you’ll always get the best view of the action. KICK BACK IN THE AMERICAN EXPRESS INVITES LOUNGE Eat. Drink. Chill. Our exclusive American Express Invites Lounge is open early ‘til late. You can also take your guests to the Credit Suisse Chairman’s Club. We can sort out a private dinner for up to 12 people.
o2_DPS.indd 55
WHAT DO I PAY FOR SEPARATELY? Tickets that aren’t included. Food and drink. Valet parking. And upgrading to a suite.
£4,500 - 12 month membership (*all prices are per person and excluding VAT)
For further information call Sophia Hayes at Champions (UK) plc on 08453 31 30 31 or email shayes@championsukplc.com
29/10/2015 19:14
BEAUTY, HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE
Grosvenor Casinos are specialists in gaming and entertainment, offering visitors a unique experience each and every time they visit. Their priority is to provide customers an innovative experience, delivering the very best hospitality under one roof.
56
Grosvenor Article DPS.indd 56
30/10/2015 16:47
With 56 branches across the UK, they operate and
All their experience packages start from just £15 and include
manage some of the country’s leading gaming and
drinks, food, entertainment and gaming. From a night out
entertainment venues. Four West Midlands branches
with friends, to your office party or a Christmas celebration,
in Birmingham, Coventry and Walsall ensure a
they’ve got a package to suit you.
Grosvenor Casino is always within easy reach.
As well as traditional gaming, their incredible range of
From show bars to sports bars, more intimate settings to
entertainment includes dining packages and shows
larger venues, each casino has its own unique charms and
featuring an exciting mix of chart acts, DJs, the very best
all are guaranteed to provide a fun, safe and friendly
tributes, high profile sports personalities and leading
atmosphere in which to play games, meet friends and
entertainers.
enjoy excellent entertainment, food and drink.
Very few venues can offer such a diversity of entertainment
A trip to Grosvenor Casinos can be customised to suit you.
options under one roof, but that is exactly what Grosvenor
Whether you are just interested in a quiet game of poker,
Casinos deliver, day in, day out. Always responsive to their
an evening with friends watching the big fight or looking for
customers’ feedback, they scour the country to find the very
a fun night out in lively surroundings, there’s sure to be
best entertainment to perform at their venues.
something going on at your local Grosvenor Casino. At Grosvenor Casinos, entertainment comes in many forms.
Recent entertainment has included: BBC Radio Two DJ, Sara Cox; R&B icon, Billy Ocean; dance-pop star, Hazell Dean;
As well as putting on a host of top class musical
New York soul group, Odyssey; alternative rock group,
entertainment, the company has recently put pen to paper
The Blow Monkeys; Grand National winning jockey, Bob
on a deal with Matchroom Boxing. They now not only
Champion MBE; and well-known spirit medium, Derek
sponsor major fight nights but also show them live in their
Acorah. This selection alone shows how broad the offering
venues all over the country, often with the help of a top
is at Grosvenor Casinos and how there really is something
pundit to provide expert analysis to guests.
for everyone.
If you’re looking for a great night out, a Casino Experience
Grosvenor Casinos have reimagined the casino experience,
is just the ticket. Experience what Grosvenor Casinos are all
focusing on being both warm and welcoming and totally
about in one brilliant night and choose from a great range
dynamic. The team pride themselves on bringing people
of packages, each specially designed so they’re perfect for
together in the highest quality surroundings and ensuring that each visit to Grosvenor Casinos is one to be
any occasion.
remembered.
Visit your local Grosvenor Casino today to discover the full range of entertainment opportunities on offer. Grosvenor Casino 84 Hill Street Birmingham B5 4AH
Grosvenor Casino Fiveways Leisure Complex Birmingham B15 1AY
Grosvenor Casino Bentley Mill Way Walsall WS2 0LE
Grosvenor Casino Ricoh Arena Phoenix Way Coventry CV6 6GE 57
Grosvenor Article DPS.indd 57
30/10/2015 16:47
BOOK NOW
musicandbands.co.uk SOLO ARTISTS | BANDS | ENTERTAINERS | DANCE TROUPES | TRIBUTE ACTS | COMEDIANS | MAGICIANS
01509 85 29 27
www.musicandbands.co.uk member of
ASPI AW2015 230x285mm M&E.indd 1
EA SB
European Association of Speakers Bureaux
30/10/2015 10:52
A Tribute to Yorkshire & England Legend Brian Close CBE It was with great sorrow that we learnt in mid-September of the death aged 84 of the former England cricket captain, Brian Close CBE. Over the course of an incredible 28 year first class career he established a reputation that transcends cricket to this day. The legendary all-rounder was a bona fide gentleman of the game and will be sorely missed by everyone in the global cricket family and by anyone whose life he touched. Born into a working class family in the West Riding of Yorkshire on 24 February 1931, Brian was passionate about sport from an early age. Practising his bowling and batting in the back yard with his father Harry as a child, he soon showed signs of the latent talent that would take him to the top of cricket. In 1949 Brian won a regular place in Yorkshire’s county cricket squad and went on to be a leading light at the club for over 20 years, captaining them to four County Championship titles in 1963, 1966, 1967 and 1968. That same debut season also saw him selected to play for England in the third Test match at Old Trafford against the touring New Zealanders, making him England’s youngest ever Test player at the tender age of just 18 years and 149 days, a record he still holds over 65 years later. In addition to being England’s youngest Test player, he also has the best Test win percentage of any England captain to spend more than five matches in the role, winning six and drawing one of his seven Tests in charge between 1966 and 1967. At the end of the 1970 season he left Yorkshire to spend seven years with Somerset, where he achieved folk hero status and helped to nurture the talents of both Sir Ian Botham and Sir Viv Richards. It was for a passage of play against the latter’s famous West Indies side in 1976 that Brian Close is perhaps best remembered, facing down a brutal assault of short, 90mph deliveries from Michael Holding, shaking off blows to the chest and dodging balls rearing up around his ears – and all this without the helmets and protective gear we see as standard in the modern game. By the time he retired from county cricket at the end of the 1977 he had scored just under 35,000 graceful first-class runs, taken 1,168 dismissals with his deceptive right-arm off-breaks and made over 800 catches as a fielder. His Test career had spanned 27 years, a feat unimaginable today. Upon his retirement, Brian served as an England selector and was elected Chairman of the Yorkshire Cricket Sub-Committee, a role which saw him rubbing up against the inimitable Geoffrey Boycott on many occasions. Brian’s charm, insight and wit also enabled him to forge a sterling reputation as a respected after dinner speaker and he soon became a great friend of the Champions (UK) plc family, taking part in the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship golf tournament on a number of occasions and supporting many of the charitable events we manage. In 2009 we were proud to pay tribute to Brian, hosting a lovely event in his honour at the former Walkers Stadium in Leicester. Everyone at Inspirational Magazine would like to express our heartfelt and sincerest condolences to Brian’s friends and family. 59
Brian Close v3.indd 59
03/11/2015 11:25
A NEW CHAPTER RENOVATIONS BEGIN AT HISTORIC GLEDDOCH HOUSE HOTEL
N
estled in the Scottish hills, overlooking the River Clyde, the historic Gleddoch House Hotel is set to undergo major renovations after being taken over by new owners earlier this year.
Designed by J. Hamilton Stutt in 1974, Gleddoch Golf Club has a reputation of being one of the most scenic golf clubs in the West of Scotland.
Originally built as the family home of Sir William Lithgow in the 1920’s, Gleddoch House will see a complete overhaul following its acquisition by the Johal family of Nottingham.
The 6,283 yard course represents a fair test for golfers of all standards and welcomes experienced golfers and beginners alike. It features undulating fairways, large greens and a good variety of holes requiring even the best golfers around to use every club from their bags.
The 75-bedroom hotel is steeped in history, which the new owners are keen to preserve throughout the refurbishment. The spacious and soon to be redecorated rooms range from classic doubles to suites and will include modern essentials such as free WiFi, LED smart TVs and complimentary toiletries from Elemis. Most of the bedrooms benefit from fabulous views overlooking the River Clyde or the beautifully designed and manicured golf course. Harjeet Johal, director of Gleddoch, said: “The hotel has had such an illustrious past and it is our firm intention to proudly celebrate its heritage while creating a hotel that will be known for its design, location, individuality and service. “With this hotel, we intend to pioneer the design concept of chic country houses, in that the property will be a harmonious fusion of history, modernity and style.” The hotel which is set within a four-hundred acre estate on the outskirts of Glasgow boasts an 18-hole golf course and a luxury Elemis spa.
Aspirational magazine.indd 4-5 60-61 Gleddoch DPS.indd 60
“The property will be a harmonious fusion of history, modernity and style.” HARJEET JOHAL
Visitors can also take advantage of the four-hole academy course and 300-yard practice ground with covered bays - a golfer’s paradise. The club is always keen to recruit new members for mid-week and weekend competitions, arranged throughout the year. The hotel’s spa and leisure facilities are set to be transformed into a modern, first-class, luxury day spa with extensive treatments, experiences and relaxation areas.
30/10/2015 14:29
All hotel guests have complimentary use of all the services including a heated indoor swimming pool, sauna and steam room, while energetic visitors can burn some calories in the fully equipped gym. Spa treatments are also offered by trained professional therapists. As a popular wedding venue, Gleddoch House will offer couples a variety of bespoke wedding packages in its beautifully redecorated suites. With picturesque private grounds, landscaped gardens and stunning views as far as the eye can see, this is the perfect location for any couple looking to say ‘I do’. The hotel is licensed to host civil ceremonies and partnerships and staff will be on hand to guide couples through every last detail of the event. Suites can be transformed into state-of-the-art facilities for business meetings and conferences where staff can cater for both private and corporate functions.
STUNNING VIEWS OVER THE RIVER CLYDE AND BEN LOMOND.
The renovations will begin in Autumn, with the first phase of refurbishment due to be completed by spring 2016.
The Gleddoch’s event team have a fantastic track record of making business functions a success.
The hotel is ideally located, just 15 minutes from the international airport and 20 minutes from Glasgow city centre and is only 35 minutes from the world famous and tranquil Loch Lomond.
With exciting future events planned throughout 2016, Gleddoch is set to be the ideal venue for any celebration.
For more information about Gleddoch, visit their website www.gleddoch.com.
THE SUNDAY DRIVER Enjoy a relaxing stay at Gleddoch and play on our championship golf course with stunning views over Ben Lomond and the River Clyde. Two rounds on our championship course* Three course dinner Accommodation in a twin room on a Sunday night Full Scottish breakfast £139 for two people *Rounds can be played on the Sunday and/or Monday
Tel: +44(0)1475 540711 • info@gleddoch.com • www.gleddoch.com Gleddoch, Old Greenock Road, Langbank, Glasgow PA14 6YE
60-61 Gleddoch DPS.indd 61
Search for ‘Gleddoch’ on your favourite social networks.
23/10/2015 14:29 16:29 30/10/2015
IT’S A MAN’S WORLD
BRITISH PAR 3 CHAMPIONSHIP
RECORD-BREAKING YEAR at the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship 2015 Bigger and better than ever, the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship at Nailcote Hall featured thrilling golf, star names and first-class entertainment. Record crowds flocked through the gates to watch as European Senior Tour star Barry Lane held off former Open champion Paul Lawrie OBE to emerge victorious in the Pro-Am Championship with a score of -5, taking home the top prize of £25,000. Two-time Major winner and the most successful Ryder Cup captain of all-time Tony Jacklin CBE returned as host of the championship, and has been instrumental in raising the profile of the BP3 and helping it to expand each year. The four-day event began with a day of Celeb-Am action with a host of stars out on course including Ashes-winning cricketer Jonny Bairstow, Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel MBE, ex-Westlife singer Brian McFadden, and former Olympians Derek Redmond and Mark Foster. Fresh from England’s Ashes triumph, Bairstow entertained fans with an exclusive Q&A session about the team’s incredible and unexpected victory.
There were a whole host of activities to sample away from the course in the bustling tented village area. One of Leicester’s most highly regarded beauty specialists, Femi Health & Beauty offered guests the chance to relax with their luxurious range of treatments including massages, pedicures and facials. Leading lifestyle store, Harvey Nichols brought along a range of luxury products for guests to browse at their leisure. Adding even more excitement, one of the fastest cars ever made, the T1 Caparo made a second appearance at the championship. Sky Sports pundit Alan McInally was the leading celebrity golfer with a score of three-over-par, while the leading team was Social Golfer with a score of -9. The day concluded with a lavish welcome ball hosted by comedian Dominic Holland and a charity auction conducted by former British 400m record holder Derek Redmond. Once again, headline sponsors Farmfoods pledged a £100,000 prize fund to attract many of the country’s top golfers. The championship is one of the few events in golf where male and female players compete side-by-side, and the Par 3 format, championed by host Tony Jacklin, gives all players an equal opportunity for success if their short game is good enough.
62
BP3 4pg.indd 62
29/10/2015 19:18
63
BP3 4pg.indd 63
29/10/2015 19:18
IT’S A MAN’S WORLD
“I really believe Par 3 golf is the future,” said Jacklin. “All that’s missing from the game is the long drive, but the test of the short game is still there and more and more professionals are seeing the benefits of the shortened version of the sport.” As well as regular competitors Tommy Horton MBE, Gary Wolstenholme MBE and Des Smyth, several stars from the Ladies European Tour took to the Cromwell Course including Carly Booth, Alex Peters and Charley Hull. A number of international golfers also came to test their ability against the celebrated course including Miguel Ángel Martín, Santiago Luna, Marc-Antoine Farry, Franklyn Stephenson, Tony Johnstone, Tim Thelen, Larry Laoretti and Byron Casper. As the sun shone on Nailcote Hall and crowds poured through the gates, Barry Lane led after the first day with a scorching round of -6, though short-game specialist Lawrie trailed by just three strokes. There was a hole-in-one for amateur golfer Craig Burgoyne who won a play, stay and learn getaway at Magnolia Park in Buckinghamshire and a bottle of Grand Cru Delux Rose Champagne courtesy of Charles Mitchell Wines. In the evening, players and guests were welcomed to the Players’ Ball which featured live entertainment from 15-year-old opera singer Faith Tucker and comedy pianist Kev Orkian. Conditions were more challenging the following day, but that did not stop European Senior Tour star Gary Wolstenholme from equalling the course record with a blistering round of -8 to tie for third. Charley Hull also made an early charge in the final round, but in the end, it all came down to Lane and Lawrie. The pair battled it out right up to the final hole, but Lane held his nerve to defeat the former Open champion by a single stroke. “The course was fantastic,” said Lane “Paul didn’t make it easy, especially towards the end but I was confident that I could hold on. It was a wonderful tournament and I’d love to come back to defend my title next year.” 13-year-old Jack Drury won the Norma C Herd Silver Salver for leading amateur, Carl Mason took home the Super Senior prize for the leading competitor over 60 for the third year running, while Lane also won the prize for the best team with his playing partner David Nelson The championship concluded with a second Celeb-Am tournament which featured the F1 duo of Johnny Herbert and Damon Hill OBE, Coronation Street star William Roache MBE, and most-capped England footballer Peter Shilton OBE amongst many others. Once again, Alan McInally emerged victorious with a score of +5, while the leading team was Tiger Foods who finished on -8. The curtain closed on another fantastic week of entertainment with the Grand Finale Ball. As well as another charity auction raising vital funds for Rainbows Hospice for Children & Young People, Boyzone’s Keith Duffy and golfer Mark Murphy took to the stage for a well-received rendition of Billy Joel’s Piano Man. The Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship will be back next year on the earlier dates of 26-29 July 2015 and will once again be one of the sporting highlights of the summer.
For further information about the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship 2015, call Champions (UK) plc on 08453 313031 or email bp3@championsukplc.com www.britishpar3.com 64
BP3 4pg.indd 64
29/10/2015 19:19
65
BP3 4pg.indd 65
29/10/2015 19:19
Corporate Golf Days Nailcote Hall is the perfect venue for a corporate event. Our golf course and new club house offer exceptional golf, located in the heart of Warwickshire and surrounded by the regions 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.
BRITISH PAR 3 CHAMPIONSHIP 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. Brian Barnes (left), 1995 & 1996 Senior British Open Champion, six times Ryder Cup star and Super Seniors Champion at the Farmfoods British Par 3 2012. Tony Jacklin CBE, Paul Lawrie OBE, Charley Hull, Brian Barnes CBE, Len Goodman and Ian Woosnam OBE seen playing at the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship held annually at Nailcote Hall.
For more information please call 02476 466 174 Nailcote Hall Nailcote Lane Berkswell Warwickshire CV7 7DE
Facsimile: 02476 470 720 Email: info@nailcotehall.co.uk
www.nailcotehall.co.uk 71
&
inspirational_magazine.qxp_nailcote_hall 23/10/2014 14:37 Page 1
Character Charm s
ituated in the heart of the beguiling Warwickshire countryside, Nailcote Hall is one of Britain’s most romantic, charming and elegant country house hotels. A haven of relaxation and style, the supremely comfortable, 49 individually designed bedrooms of the hotel make it the perfect place to leave behind the stresses of everyday life. Indulge in wonderful food, regular entertainment, fully equipped leisure club, new golf clubhouse facility and enjoy playing on the best Par 3 golf course in Europe, The ‘Cromwell Course’. With quintessentially luxurious hospitality and a warm welcome guaranteed, Nailcote Hall offers truly unforgettable breaks.
Nailcote Lane, Berkswell, Warwickshire, CV7 7DE Telephone: +44 (0) 2476 466174 info@nailcotehall.co.uk www.nailcotehall.co.uk
IT’S A MAN’S WORLD
Opt for cool and classic presents for the perfect gentleman. From luxury hampers and retro-style cocktail cases to the very latest skin technology, Harvey Nichols Birmingham boasts an Aladdin’s cave of must-have gifts.
All products are available from Harvey Nichols Birmingham or online at harveynichols.com. Looking for gift inspiration? Visit the Christmas shop at the luxury Mailbox store where you’ll discover a host of present ideas, hampers and decorations.
68
Harvey Nichols Gifts for Him V2.indd 68
03/11/2015 11:27
Acqua Di Parma After Shave Balm £42
Bang & Olufsen Play Special Edition Headphones £329
Foreo Luna Premium Skin Conditioner For Men £219
Harvey Nichols Fancy Trimmings Hamper £85
Jimmy Choo Tasselled Loafers £450
Kenzo Embroidered Sweatshirt £180
Paul Smith Striped Socks £18
Tipplesworth Old Fashioned Cocktail Case £185
Valentino Silk Tie £130
Givenchy Adjustable Watch £750
Paul Smith Reversible Scarf £65
Vivienne Westwood Tartan Twill Backpack £320
69
Harvey Nichols Gifts for Him V2.indd 69
03/11/2015 11:28
A gentlemen’s tailor: Artisan, stylist, confidant and a friend. At Clements and Church, not only do we believe that our art is worth preserving but we are dedicated to invigorating it. Working with the finest craftsmen in the UK and Europe, we deliver the very best in sartorial elegance for today’s discerning customer.
Telephone : 01926 887668 Address : 23 Park Street, Leamington Spa, CV32 4QN Website : www.clementsandchurch.co.uk Twitter : @LspaTailors Instagram : LspaTailors
Clements & Church SS2015 INSP.indd 70
03/11/2015 15:03
IT’S A MAN’S WORLD
A leading Midlands’ based fly fishing emporium, the Game Angling Consultancy has become the destination store for keen fly fishers throughout the country.
Haukadalsa River, located 150km north of Reykjavík. Known for its fantastic access and very high per rod catch averages, the river is known to yield 15-26 salmon a day for a skilled fisher.
Stocking a vast array of equipment from likes of Sage, Simms, Hardy’s, Loop, Scott and Thomas & Thomas, it is no wonder that the Game Angling Consultancy is so highly regarded. The stock offering doesn’t end there either, with their comprehensive selection of Hardy fly rods available in store in every range and size possible, something that has not been replicated anywhere else in the UK.
Despite its relatively small 8km length, the Haukadalsa has formed 40 wonderful fly fishing pools from source to mouth. The river also became famous for its crystal clear waters and incredibly healthy fish it carries, allowing the sport of fly-fishing to be enjoyed to the full.
Game Angling Consultancy CEO Captain Tony Spacey has impressive experience of fly-fishing and fisheries all over the world. Leading guided days in some of the most prestigious waters in the world, Tony can cater to almost any level of skill and experience, giving all participants real value to their fishing days away. The latest upcoming major excursion for the Game Angling Consultancy is their July/August 2016 trip to Iceland. It’s an exclusive and undoubtedly special experience to fish salmon at the
After a successful day of fishing, guests are welcomed back to the newly refurbished fishing lodge, acting as your second home whilst staying in Iceland. Exclusive fine dining experience courtesy of Swedish chef Robert Mohsen will be served every day, providing a hearty footing to get the most from your time fly-fishing. Whether you wish to drop by the Game Angling Consultancy to sample their latest industry leading stock, or to take part in a fishing experience with them both in the UK or overseas, the expertise and quality of the Game Angling Consultancy’s product and service offering will be abundantly clear.
For more information on the
Game Angling Consultancy’s Icelandic salmon fishing trip, contact Captain Tony Spacey on 01332 331 548 today!
72
Game Angling.indd 72
03/11/2015 15:04
Captain Tony Spacey’s enthusiasm for his business and the sport it has founded upon is evident: “Having a business that also is my hobby is hugely rewarding. I love sharing the experience of fishing in some of the best waters in the world with my clients and friends and welcome anyone who wishes to join us in Iceland to get in touch. We are set to have a fabulous time in July/ August and hopefully the weather is with us too!�
73
Game Angling.indd 73
03/11/2015 15:04
IT’S A MAN’S WORLD
A STABLE RELATIONSHIP Join the UK’s most exclusive horse racing club There is nothing quite like the thrill of horse racing. The tension as the horses line up at the starting gates, the roar of the crowd willing the racers on as they gallop down the track, and the climactic finish as one of the competitors crosses the line and clinches all the glory. 74
Jonjo O'Neill Partnershipv2.indd 74
03/11/2015 15:05
The Jockey Club Rooms, New Market
Fine dining at The Cheltenham Club
Jackdaws Castle
Known as The Sport of Kings with centuries’ worth of pedigree in Great Britain, horse racing is today more popular than ever. With major National Hunt events such as the Cheltenham Gold Cup and the Grand National drawing hundreds of thousands of viewers and listeners, and millions across the country betting on horse races each year, it is a key fixture of the British sporting calendar. One of the most respected and best-known figures in the world of horse racing is Jonjo O’Neill. The much-loved Irishman, who enjoyed one of the most successful careers as a jockey in jump racing, is now repeating the same as a trainer. In his 16-year career as a jockey, Jonjo rode more than 900 winners, including an extraordinary double of Cheltenham Gold Cup and Champion Hurdle on legendary mare Dawn Run, and as a trainer experienced just as many triumphs, including the 2010 Grand National and the 2012 Gold Cup. Now, Jonjo has decided to share his vast expertise and knowledge of the sport with other likeminded people by launching The Jonjo O’Neill Partnership, a private members’ club that aims to have an influential role in making racing history. The Jonjo O’Neill Partnership team is made up of O’Neill himself, racing legend Bob Champion MBE, former MD of Cheltenham Racecourse Edward Gillespie OBE and Racing Director Torie Blythe-Richards – all of whom are in the partnership. Bob has long been associated with leading brand agency Champions (UK) plc who are also throwing their support behind the partnership. As part of this exclusive club, members will have unrivalled access to first class horse racing, ownership, hospitality and a social calendar of events, as well as becoming part of the renowned Jackdaws Castle training base in Gloucestershire. Set in 126 acres of quintessential Cotswold countryside, Jackdaws Castle is the setting where Jonjo, his family and team dedicate their life to nurturing, schooling and training the finest thoroughbred racehorses for their discerning owners. As well as hospitality in the Jackdaws Castle Owners’ Lounge, members also enjoy an outstanding insight into owner communication, schooling, training and first class race preparation from the team, giving them the chance to learn first-hand what goes into the making of a winner. Members will also have an interest in each of the five partnership-owned horses, giving them a share of all winning, prize and sale proceeds from the horses, as well as the presenting of badges when any of them are running throughout the UK and the highest level of communication and owner involvement. All training, veterinary, insurance and associated race fees are included in the membership. Jonjo O’Neill & Bob Champion MBE
Torie Blythe-Richards & Sophia Hayes of Champions (UK) plc
Additionally the Partnership will offer members the finest VIP hospitality at the world-renowned Cheltenham Racecourse, in addition to the unique chance to be associated with and advised by some of the most respected names and personalities within the sport of jump racing. The newly created VIP Cheltenham Club, a state-of-the-art £45 million facility, stretches right across the top of the spectacular new Princess Royal Grandstand and features a stunning glass rotunda overlooking the famous Cheltenham Paddock and Winners’ Enclosure, making it the ideal place for guests to soak up the magnificent Cheltenham experience. Partnership members and guests are bestowed with Cheltenham Club hospitality visits each season and will receive a vast array of benefits on each visit, including exclusive parking, race day admission, exclusive access to The Princess Royal Grandstand, a four-course a la carte lunch and a dedicated manager catering to all their needs. Involvement in the Partnership is geared to be a perfect blend of business and pleasure, with a number of social events and experience days included in the package. Members have the opportunity to attend overseas race days, VIP visits to other UK race day venues, an overnight stay at the prestigious Jockey Club Rooms at Newmarket, and even an annual members’ gala ball. And when it comes to experience days, each member’s wishes and objectives will be tailored together into an exclusive bespoke package which may include a variety of events, including an invitation-only visit to Jackdaws Castle, an organised UK race day, or an overnight stay in a luxurious hotel. Undisputedly the most exclusive of racing clubs, membership is strictly limited to ensure that each individual receives nothing but the highest service and maximum benefit from the Partnership, ensuring a world class journey filled with excitement, exceptional service, award-winning hospitality, and no doubt some winners along the way. Where’s the hare?
For more information on The Jonjo O’Neill Partnership, or to apply for membership, contact Torie Blythe-Richards by telephone on 07762 708 557, or by email at torie@thejonjooneillpartnership.com
75
Jonjo O'Neill Partnershipv2.indd 75
03/11/2015 15:05
IT’S A MAN’S WORLD
EXPLORER • SPEAKER • MEDIA PERSONALITY • AUTHOR
A R C T I C One of the foremost explorers in the world, Pen Hadow is an extraordinary individual who rose to fame by becoming the first person to trek solo, without resupply by third parties, from Canada to the North Geographic Pole. Considered by experts in the field to be the equivalent of making a solo ascent of Everest without oxygen, what Pen has achieved is truly remarkable. Within months he went on to become the only Briton to have trekked, without resupply, to both the North and South Poles. Pen’s solo journey to the North Pole in 2003 spanned 770km and took 64 days to complete. Becoming the first man to achieve the feat without third party resupply meant dragging a 265kg sledge containing the supplies and equipment necessary to finish the journey. Pen even swam part of the distance he undertook whenever encountering thin ice or open water thanks to the use of an immersion suit. The undertaking almost cost him his life more than once, when he broke through the ice and found himself swimming in the sub-zero waters of the Arctic Ocean, many hundreds of miles from help. This record achievement was the first of many more expeditions that would see Hadow gain the huge respect he now receives amongst his peers, the media and wider public audience. The Times followed his journey with a series of front page headlines. Pen’s interest in the arctic stemmed from his childhood when he underwent a polar conditioning programme overseen by his nanny Enid Wigley, who had also cared for Scott of the Antarctic’s son and future founder of the WWF, Peter. Often hearing tales of great deeds accomplished by his family recounted by his father, Pen’s future seemed already mapped out.
P I O N E E R
At the age of 15, he devised his own gruelling training schedule to complete a school marathon, long before they had become a public participation sport. Finishing the route in three hours, he later found out that it was the first time it had been completed in 50 years. Just as Pen’s future was taking shape, a major setback struck. In 1979, Pen was removed from school due to acute exhaustion caused by playing rugby whilst running a high temperature. The post-viral fatigue syndrome that he suffered stayed with him for 25 years, constraining both his body and mind. Despite the physical and mental challenges he faced, Pen’s fascination with the poles continued and in the 1990s, after several expeditions, he established the world’s first specialist polar guide service, The Polar Travel Company. The pioneering travel business helped empowered people from all walks of life to fulfil their polar ambitions. Just months after his ground-breaking expedition to the North Pole, in 2004, Hadow partnered up with Simon Murray on a trek to the Geographic South Pole. A huge success, the 1,200km journey came to a close on the 28th January, with Murray becoming the oldest individual to reach the Pole from the continent’s shoreline. Aside from huge personal achievement, the partnership also raised over $450,000 for the Royal Geographical Society. In 2004, Pen published his autobiography Solo which recounted his death-defying adventure to the North Pole, as well telling stories of his childhood, family and inspiration for the expedition. He has since gone on to contribute to a number of other books and publications.
A staunch supporter of combatting climate change and preserving natural habitats, Pen led an exploration team to survey Arctic Ocean ice thickness in 2009. The ‘Catlin Arctic Survey’ covered 430km in 73 days. Delivering key research to create significant findings in the effect of climate change on Arctic Ocean ice, Pen and his team were part of creating huge awareness of the issue.
With life experiences that only a select few have had the privilege of witnessing, Pen has taken to the stage as an after dinner speaker to give both corporate and social worlds a glimmering insight into life as a worldclass explorer. Having worked with hugely influential companies including the likes of BT, BA, HSBC and Lloyds Banking Group, his polished delivery of speeches make him an ideal personality to have at events. With the ability to tailor his speech to a client’s brief, Pen can cover anecdotal tales of his times exploring to the challenges we face in years to come as the globe’s climate begins to warm due to continued fossil fuel consumption. Pen’s thoughtprovoking messages can help to boost personal performance, develop teams, inject additional motivation and teach others to overcome life’s adversities.
76
Pen Hadow DPS V3.indd 76
03/11/2015 11:39
Pen led an exploration team to survey Arctic Ocean ice thickness in 2009. The ‘Catlin Artic Survey’ covered 430km in 73 days.
Pen Hadow after a water crossing in his immersion suit ‘Mr Orange’ and with sledge and its inflatable sledge-skin behind: Solo North Pole 2003 © Courtesy Martin Hartley
For more information on booking Pen for your event as a Speaker or Brand Ambassador, contact Sandy Drummond at Champions (UK) plc calling 07792 530 039 or 08453 31 30 31. Alternatively, email sdrummond@championsukplc.com
77
Pen Hadow DPS V3.indd 77
03/11/2015 11:40
IT’S A MAN’S MANS WORLD WORLD
ay, w a r yea a mpic n y l a h O t the ess l n s o c l i l his lymp y fa t l O e g s o i n i eas cour 016 R r 2 f c e n o i h , t and will ts. t o With i n h R e g i r m l e pot es fo hiev p c o a h the s t pas itish e r l B b , i l d cre idea n i s ’ try coun
78
Olympians DPS v3.indd 78
30/10/2015 10:38
...will travel to Brazil for the first ever Games to take place in South America. Leading celebrity management agency Champions Celebrity carries the torch for many of Britain’s greatest ever Olympic heroes who are available for booking to provide their exclusive insights and analysis in ambassadorial, media or speaking roles. Great Britain has the honour of being the only nation to have won at least one gold medal at every Summer Games.
Another of the stars in Champions Celebrity’s stable is 2004 badminton mixed doubles silver medallist, Gail Emms MBE. Enjoying a hugely successful career which saw her claim World Championships gold in 2006, consecutive Commonwealth titles and backto-back European Championships, she dominated the sport throughout the early 2000s. The pinnacle of her achievements came when she captured the imagination of the entire nation by win a silver medal at the 2004 Athens Olympic Games with her playing-partner Nathan Robertson.
The progress in recent years has been staggering. From winning just a single gold in 1996 and finishing in 36th in the medal table behind Belgium, Algeria and Kazakhstan, to winning 29 golds at London 2012 and finishing third, Great Britain have advanced rapidly.
across a multitude of sports and situations make Gail Emms the ideal pundit or after dinner speaker. Her successful professional career, which helped increase the recognisability of badminton throughout the country, shows her capabilities as a role model and an ideal inspirational speaker. Gail showed that she is still a formidable athlete on the recent ITV endurance challenge show Eternal Glory, during which she defeated ex-athletes including James Cracknell, Shane Williams and Jade Johnson to emerge triumphant.
Champions Celebrity’s Olympians are available for all manner of ambassadorial, media and speaking engagements – and it’s an impressive roll call. One of the stars available for booking first made his name at the Sydney Games in 2000. Entering the ring as Commonwealth champion, Audley Harrison MBE comfortably made his way through the preliminary rounds before defeating Mukhtarkhan Dildabekov in the final. When Audley topped the boxing podium for Britain, it was the first time in 32 years a British fighter had achieved this feat. As his achievements in the ring piled up, his charm made him one of the most recognisable figures in the media landscape and his popularity has only continued to grow. With a larger than life presence and considered views on a wide range of topics, Audley Harrison is an asset to any media or television production.
Her extensive knowledge within badminton and
Looking back to the early 1990s, sprinter and Champions Celebrity personality Derek Redmond broke the British 400m record twice and challenged American dominance of the event. He was a prominent member of the British 4 x 400 metre relay squad that took gold at the 1991 World Championships, the 1986 European Championships and the Commonwealth Games of the same year. He is perhaps best remembered for an incident during the 1992 Barcelona Olympics 400m semi-final which in 2012 was voted the 3rd greatest Olympic moment in history in a poll of viewers of the US broadcaster NBC. Tipped as one of the favourites for gold, Derek unfortunately tore a hamstring on the back straight but, full of determination,
picked himself up to somehow finish the race. He and his father, Jim, who had made it through security onto the track to help, were cheered home by the Spanish crowd in incredible scenes that summed up the power of the human spirit, a feat lauded by US President Barack Obama during one of his famous speeches. Derek has 30 years of excellent media experience to his name and has worked closely with a diverse range of media channels and bodies. He has enjoyed great success as both a television and radio athletics commentator and is widely regarded as among the most knowledgeable UK pundits. Though predominantly famous for his Winter Olympic exploits, former skier Graham Bell also covers a range of other sports. Regarded as one of the finest downhill skiers the UK has ever produced, the fivetime Olympian claimed the title of the Ski Champion of Britain on eight occasions during his illustrious career. Graham’s boundless enthusiasm, knowledge and experience has seen him appear on a range of great programming and providing coverage of high profile sporting events all over the world. He has also appeared in numerous triathlons and marathons for charity, testing his endurance against challenges including the gruelling Marathon de Sables. There’s no doubt that when the Olympic Games arrives in Rio in 2016, the eyes of the world will be watching. Associating your company or event with any one of Champions Celebrity’s former Olympians offers wonderful promotional opportunities and the chance to radically boost your brand awareness.
To book any of the Olympians available with Champions Celebrity for all ambassadorial, media or speaking enquiries, please contact Amelia Neate on aneate@championsukplc.com or Sandy Drummond on sdrummond@championsukplc.com Alternatively call 08453 31 30 33
79
Olympians DPS v3.indd 79
30/10/2015 10:38
IT’S A MAN’S WORLD
With Star Wars: The Force Awakens ready to hit our screens in December 2015, we take at look at Star Wars as a commercial entity to date and try our best to unravel the predictions for the franchise’s future. Captivating global audiences since 1977, George Lucas’ Star Wars is one of the most successful film franchises of all time, generating over US$4 billion in box office revenues across the original three films and the resulting three prequels, filmed between 1999 and 2005. In October 2012, Disney acquired the rights to Star Wars for US$4.05 billion. The sale of Lucasfilm has given the franchise a new lease of life, with the announcement that a new complete trilogy of films would be making an appearance in cinemas before the end of the decade. Lucas and Lucasfilm have remained integral to the production of the new films, brought on board as creative consultants in a bid to ensure the original magic that made Star Wars the resounding success it undeniably is, remains. With characters that have become an intrinsic part of popular culture making a reappearance in the new films, including Harrison Ford as Han Solo, Carrie Fisher as Princess Leia and Mark Hamill as Luke Skywalker, Star Wars: The Force Awakens has already created an unparalleled media stir for an upcoming film. Disney’s acquisition of Star Wars has given the franchise a substantial influx of capital and the power to provide a new marketplace for the films that Lucasfilm would not have been able to accomplish alone. Disney’s role in creating the new trilogy of sequels has granted Lucas’ wish to have his franchise continue to grow far into the future, even past his lifetime. The plot of Star Wars: The Force Awakens remains a heavily guarded secret, with Star Wars fanatics tirelessly creating potential plotlines to keep everyone interested whilst counting down the days until the film’s release. All that is known for certain is the inclusion of new leading characters Finn, Rey, Poe Dameron, Kylo Ren and Supreme Leader Snoke played by John Boyega, Daisy Ridley, Oscar Isaac, Adam Driver and Andy Serkis respectively. An original story set after Episode VI: Return of the Jedi, the film will feature the ‘First Order’, an offshoot of the ‘Galactic Empire’, against the ‘Resistance’, sprung from the ‘Rebel Alliance’. The Force Awakens’ Director, JJ Abrams has also given little away about the new film, but has shed light on the timeline of the film. Picking up three decades since the Ewok celebrations on Endor following the destruction of the Death Star, the film will move in ‘real time’,
80
Star Wars DPS.indd 80
30/10/2015 10:40
(L-R) Producer Kathleen Kennedy, actors Peter Mayhew, Mark Hamill, Oscar Isaac, John Boyega, Daisy Ridley, Carrie Fisher, Anthony Daniels and director J.J. Abrams speak onstage during Star Wars Celebration 2015 on April 16, 2015 in Anaheim, California.
giving viewers the full picture of what has happened since the last film. This decision dispels any rumours that the plot will incorporate themes from the comics, novels and video game spinoffs from the Star Wars expanded universe. In keeping with the previous six films, John Williams has returned to score all of the film’s music. Michael Giacchino has scored all of JJ Abram’s movies to date, but has politely stepped aside to allow Williams to bring complete continuity to the third set of films. A five-time Oscar winner, Williams’ music has been a terrific asset to Star Wars so far, and the new films will undoubtedly continue this trend. It has also been announced that alongside the three sequels scheduled for 2015, 2017 and 2019, three anthology films will be produced, giving fans the answers to plot gaps found in previous films. Rogue One: A Star Wars Story is set for release in December 2016. The film’s storyline revolves around a band of resistance fighters uniting to steal the plans to the Death Star. The resistance’s possession of the plans, first mentioned in the opening plot crawl of Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope, had always been a convenient solution to give the Empire’s new planet-destroying battle station an inherent weakness. The second film in the Star Wars Anthology series has been announced to be an as-yet-untitled Han Solo Anthology, detailing his young smuggler life before meeting Luke Skywalker and ObiWan Kenobi at the Mos Eisley Cantina in Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope. The third instalment of the Anthology series is an as-yet-untitled final film, rumoured to be based around bounty hunter Boba Fett. The standalone Anthology series brings another story dimension to the series and furthers George Lucas’ desire to explore all stories that lie within the Star Wars universe. 2015 marks the start of a new era for the Star Wars franchise. New owners, directors, cast and filming techniques have been brought in, albeit under the watchful eye of Lucasfilm, to ensure the films live up to the hype and give Disney the much needed return on investment to justify their gargantuan investment into this galactic tale. One thing we can all be sure of, however, is that Star Wars is here to be analysed, discussed but most importantly enjoyed for many years to come.
81
Star Wars DPS.indd 81
30/10/2015 10:40
HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN
HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN The saying “home is where the heart is”, is surely true for many of us. If you can relate to this statement, then Inspirational Magazine’s own Home, House and Garden section is here for you. We have put together this section to meet the demands of your household. Whether your home needs more security or perhaps your new house is a blank canvas and you are in need of some design ideas, sit back and let the next few pages fill you with inspiration. Everybody deserves to feel safe and secure, so whether your property is commercial or residential, with their expertise, Abel Alarms provides top of the range security systems to ensure that you do. Established in 1995 Suzanne Barnes Design Partnership Ltd provides stunning interiors, designed to suit your personal style and make your living spaces that little bit more special. Their talent spans over a range of different areas, including high-end residential, set design, leisure, hospitality and education. So whatever your demands, Suzanne Barnes and her team are sure to meet them. Cookers of Distinction provide high quality cookers and appliances that will easily become the focus point of any kitchen. They understand that the kitchen is often the room where the entertaining happens, where guests can sit, relax and sip a glass of wine whilst you showcase your hosting skills. But without reliable kitchen appliances the night could end in disaster. They provide a range of products, from contemporary to classic, in a variety of styles and colours, to provide you with the kitchen you’ve always dreamt of. Omniblend are a company that specialise in bestselling commercial blenders that have become a kitchen revolution. They know how important the health of your family is, which is why their unique blenders seek out every nutrient from the ingredients you put in, to ensure that your juices and soups not only taste great but are doing great things on the inside too. The blenders are top of the range and are available in a variety of different sizes and colours. If you are ready to put your feet onto the next step of the property ladder, then Redrow property developers should be your first point of call. They have risen to the top, becoming one of the UK’s leading residential developers, priding themselves in their imaginative skills, design ability and their dedication to providing the top quality properties you expect.
82
Home House and Garden V2.indd 82
03/11/2015 11:41
ADVERTISING FEATURE
MASTER A MOVE TO AN EXECUTIVE
HOME EXCLUSIVE TO YOU
DISCERNING buyers with designs on personalising their own home will have plenty of opportunities to perfect their ideal property at Compton Park, Wolverhampton. The exclusive Redrow development has quickly established itself as one of the city’s most prestigious addresses thanks to the superb specification of the homes and their leafy surroundings in the catchment area for some of Wolverhampton’s most respected schools. Those who reserve their new home now will have plenty of opportunities to customise its interior using the ‘My Redrow’ feature of the Redrow website, which enables buyers to select options including kitchens, flooring, tiling and wardrobes. Recognising that those considering moving to Compton Park may have a property to sell, Redrow is offering to help customers secure a buyer with its Mastermove service. Pauline Turnbull, sales director for Redrow Homes (Midlands), says: “The combination of traditional Arts & Crafts inspired architecture and high specification modern interiors gives the executive homes at Compton Park a timeless appeal. The properties are very much sought-after and in some
VERY
cases prospective purchasers fear they will miss out if they have yet to find a buyer for the house they want to move from. Our Mastermove service puts them at ease as we’ll enlist estate agents who will enable them to sell quickly at full market value leaving them free to purchase a brand new Redrow home.” Large and luxurious four and five-bedroom homes at Compton Park are currently available from £409,995 to £729,995. “One of the things people love about buying a brand new Redrow home is that it offers them a blank canvas,” Pauline explains. “They can log into My Redrow at any time of day or night to explore the different design choices available, confirming their preferred options for things like the kitchen cupboards and bathroom tiles or adding extras such as a coffee machine, wine cooler or even a hot tub. Those who reserve early enough in the build can also opt to include under-floor heating to the ground floor.”
DESIRABLE
To discover all that a brand new Redrow home at Compton Park has to offer, visit the development on Compton Road West, open daily from 10am to 5.30pm. For more information call 01902 471153 or see www.redrow.co.uk/compton.
Very Inviting, Very Inspiring, Very Redrow
BRAND NEW
REDROW HOMES AT
Compton Park, Wolverhampton Visit Compton Park to discover how we could help you move with our range of incentives. 4 and 5 bedroom family homes available from
£409,995 Visit: redrow.co.uk/compton Call: 01902 471153 Compton Park, Compton Road West, Wolverhampton WV3 9DX Open Daily, 10am~5.30pm Images typical of Redrow homes. Prices correct at time of going to press.
Redrow DPS.indd 83
29/10/2015 20:07
Interior Architecture and Design We are simply about design, designing space, designing interiors, designing layouts and furniture. We can package our services as a full stress free, put your feet up, turn-key option; or tailor them for those of you who like the more hands on approach with a little helping hand.
sbdp.co.uk @SuzanneBarnesDP Suzanne Barnes Design Partnership info@sbdp.co.uk 0121 455 7555
53 Calthorpe Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 1TH
Suzanne Barnes Design Partnership
SBDP DPS V3.indd 84
03/11/2015 11:42
Suzanne Barnes Design Partnership
SBDP DPS V3.indd 85
03/11/2015 11:42
HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN
SERIOUS ABOUT
COOKING Where the Cooks Go When it comes to finding the right cooking appliances, everyone has their own personal preferences. Depending on the type of meals you prepare, how often you cook and how the appliance fits into the look and style of your kitchen, your cooker should be perfectly suited to your needs. Cookers of Distinction supply, deliver and install a wide range of leading cooking appliances, while offering a personal level of service tailored to you. Customers can expect an efficient, hasslefree service, as well as impartial advice that gives you all the information you need to be able to make the right decision about the type of cooking appliance best suited to you. An independent company with years of experience, some of the most prestigious brands they offer include Falmec, ABK InnoVent, Viking, Godin, ILVE, Barazza and Faber. They are always looking for new brands to add to their collection and provide customers with the widest selection possible.
With an accessible location in the heart of the country, Cookers of Distinction cater to clients nationwide. Many high profile individuals and businesses have trusted the team to supply and install their cooking appliances and their standards of service never fail to impress. As well as cookers, they also offer extractors, outdoor cooking products, glassware and kitchenware. The highly trained team can install your appliances while being as flexible as possible to fit around your working day. The stellar reputation that they have developed has allowed the business to expand rapidly. Next year, Cookers of Distinction will open a dedicated showroom in the Leicestershire village of Ibstock that includes a live kitchen and focuses on the overall customer experience. If you need a premium cooking appliance supplied, delivered and installed to the very highest standards, look no further than Cookers of Distinction.
86
Cookers Of Distinction v2.indd 86
03/11/2015 11:46
BBQS AND OUTDOOR COOKING APPLIANCES For outdoor cooking, the leading range of barbecues at Cookers of Distinction provide the perfect accompaniment to warm summer evenings. Building in or pairing with a portable outdoor cart or cabinet gives you plenty of installation options. Capture and create flavours including a unique smoky flavour using our premium models, which generate perfect heat distribution, whilst also protecting the burners from debris ensuring your appliance looks and performs as professionally as the discerning cook demands.
Simon Barrs
www.codltd.co.uk 01530 443648 07889 320678 simon@codltd.co.uk @info_codltd cookers of distinction
87
Cookers Of Distinction v2.indd 87
03/11/2015 11:46
HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN
50 YEAR ANNIVERSARY Abel have gone from a small office in Leicester to one of the largest privately owned electronic security and intelligent automation companies in the United Kingdom
Celebrating its 50-year anniversary in 2015, Abel have gone from a small office in Leicester to one of the largest privately owned electronic security and intelligent automation companies in the United Kingdom. Protecting businesses and homes from the risks of crime, fire and floods for five decades, Abel’s reputation has been built on excellent customer service combined with reliable and costeffective products. Ensuring your home is secure has never been easier. Abel’s intruder systems have been designed to fit in around your home and the way you live, utilising cutting edge technology to keep you updated at any point with the security of your residence. Features such as one-touch operation, flood detection and even notification of alarm activation can now be controlled from the convenience of a smartphone, giving you the ability to stay secure whilst on the go. Combined with this, Abel’s systems also incorporate wireless technology, providing the option to retrofit a system in the future or avoid the issue of cabling in listed buildings or interiors. To complete the package, all intruder alarms can be matched to CCTV, security lighting, hold-up alarms and fire alarms to guarantee the highest level of protection possible. Abel’s service provision is not confined to the residential market either, with a comprehensive offering to commercial clientele. Catering for large corporate headquarters, places of education, government offices, healthcare properties and a vast array of business premises,
Abel’s status as a National Security Inspectorate (NSI) Gold Approved firm will keep your investment safe. Abel Alarm’s access control systems allow commercial premises to control the entry and movement of personnel in the building, providing one of the most comprehensive ways to safeguard property from crime. Measures including biometrics, video entry and proximity cards can be installed to limit access to sensitive areas, prohibit walk-in theft and counter staff dishonesty. The majority of Abel’s access control systems also have recording and programming facilities that allow you to investigate and monitor staff and personnel actions in real time. Monitoring your security systems has become more time-efficient than ever. Abel offer clients the ability to have their security equipment monitored by fully licenced and qualified CCTV controllers with the authority to take action on video footage they see, including calling the police and pre-specified keyholders. Abel’s solution to security monitoring is also a more cost effective solution compared to a manned, on-site presence. Some of Abel’s more innovative safety precautions take shape in the form of SmokeCloak and Security Fog systems. Working on the premise of ‘what they cannot see they cannot steal’, SmokeCloaks are initiated at the push of a button and shroud a room with damage free impenetrable smoke within 12 seconds of initial deployment. Working with leading suppliers, Abel has significant experience with this proven method of crime deterrent,
ensuring maximum theft limitation directly after a break-in. As a commercial premises owner, it is a legal requirement for an assessment of fire risk to be produced. Quite often, findings of an assessment will require the instalment of a fire alarm system, fire extinguishers and emergency lighting. If demands of the assessment are not fulfilled, the people responsible for not acting are liable to prosecution and any insurance policy may be invalid. Abel’s comprehensive stable of measures on offer will ensure your premises are fire safe and everything possible is in order to ensure that both your business’ legality and safety is as good as can be. Completing the spectrum of Abel’s service and product provision is their diverse range of Intelligent Automation products. Gone are the days of multiple remotes and analogue controls for your lights, heating and entertainment. Abel gives its customers the ability to control their homes with a sleek Creston touch screen, or alternatively an iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch or Android device. With Creston, you can control almost any element of your home and enjoy the ultimate technology lifestyle from the comfort of your chair. As industry leaders, Abel are experts in its field. The combination of five decades of experience, a comprehensive product offering and branch network of offices that mean your never far from their team, allow you to enjoy everything the modern day has to offer from the worlds of security, safety and home automation.
88
Abel Alarms AW2015.indd 88
30/10/2015 10:45
Secured and Automated by Design The Abel Way of Living and Working. Abel Alarm Company Ltd, Detection House, 4 Vaughan Way, Leicester, LE1 4ST
Call Abel on 0116 265 4200 or email info@abelav.co.uk www.twitter.com/abelalarm
www.facebook.com/abel.alarm
www.linkedin.com-Abel 89
Abel Alarms AW2015.indd 89
30/10/2015 10:45
HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN
INSURANCE WITH A PERSONAL TOUCH A family-run business with over a decade of experience, Edwards Insurance Brokers always put their customers first. In everything they do, they aim to build a lasting relationship and add value wherever possible. Across the various sectors they specialise in, they use their expertise, experience and your unique information and circumstances to source the most appropriate insurance cover. HOUSEHOLD INSURANCE COVER People with high value homes, property and cars need bespoke insurance cover that provides complete peace of mind. Edwards Insurance Brokers pride themselves on sourcing the most appropriate level of insurance cover to protect the things that matter most. Based in the centre of a high net worth region in the West Midlands, the team have built up experience in creating tailored household packages that cover all your valuables. As well as this, Edwards Insurance Brokers can help protect your business with a dedicated commercial division. Edwards Insurance Brokers will provide a level of cover designed to suit your lifestyle which cannot be found on a standard insurance policy. They are experienced in tailoring the level of cover to suit your exact requirements for everything from high value homes, contents and valuables, to fine works of art, prestige cars and antiques.
“
Christopher Edwards explained the approach of the brokerage: The specialist household market is one we understand from top to bottom and we work hard to make sure our clients receive a level of cover that protects their lifestyle. ‘Customer First’ is the guiding principle at Edwards Insurance Brokers and we take on our clients’ concerns as our own before finding the very best solutions.
Contact us today to discover what we can do for you.
01564 730 900
Christopher@edwardsinsurance.co.uk
www.edwardsinsurance.co.uk
”
Edwards Insurance Brokers is a trading name of David Edwards Insurance Brokers Ltd which is authorised & regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Financial Services Register No. 308314). Registered in England & Wales: 5055612. Registered Office: 1 Rotten Row Barns, 1957 Warwick Road, Knowle, Solihull, West Midlands B93 0DX.
90
David Edwards Insurance V3.indd 90
03/11/2015 11:51
91
David Edwards Insurance V3.indd 91
03/11/2015 11:51
HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN
Cadmore Lodge offers luxurious surroundings with as much, or as little, first class, quality care to suit residents or guests’ personal requirements. With short breaks, respite care and soon to be enhanced with nursing and palliative availability. Set in the peace and quiet of this idyllic and tranquil retreat, residents and guests are able to create an independent lifestyle if they so wish, with the reassurance of highly trained care staff being close at hand for when care is required, either short term or on a more permanent basis. It truly is the place to be for something different. Set in the beautiful surroundings of this breathtaking forty acres of Worchestershire countryside, lakeside scenery, wooded glades and glistening water, transform the landscape to a whole new level. Cleobury Mortimer lies five miles north east and the historic towns of Ludlow, Leominster and Bewdley are all less than 12 miles away, the cathedral cities of Worchester and Hereford are within a 40 minute drive. Take time out from your busy schedule, try a short holiday break or weekend retreat. Come and experience the luxury of our surroundings and enjoy the fabulous facilities, fine food and atmosphere available here at Cadmore Lodge. A beautifully appointed spacious entrance hall invites you into the luxurious, open plan lounge with country and lakeside views from every window. Superbly appointed and with the ultimate in decor, there are spacious, modern bedrooms which have exceptional countryside views, some with lakeside terrace and all equipped with a fabulous en-suite. The finest of cuisine is on offer, with delicious homemade and mouthwatering food, freshly prepared by our resident Chef and his team in our own kitchens, using locally sourced fresh produce. Enjoy our own private golf course with the opportunity of golf tuition from PGA professional, Joanne Lee. Take advantage of the full-sized, heated indoor swimming pool with relaxing lounge area. The Ephraims Care Group is a family run business and enjoys extending this ethos into our homes. Our strong commitment to providing the highest levels of quality care has been the key to our success in running well managed and efficient care homes for over 30 years. The ultimate experience in luxurious surroundings with the highest quality of care. 92
Cadmore Lodge v2.indd 92
03/11/2015 11:58
SUNRISE
over Cadmore Lodge
The Ultimate Experience in Luxury Retirement Living with Care First Class Quality Care - Respite Care - Short Breaks - Independent Lifestyle
Excellent Cuisine - Golf Course - Indoor Swimming Pool - Revitalise & Relax - Woodland Walks
Cadmore Lodge, St. Michaels, Tenbury Wells, Worchestershire, WR15 8TQ T: 01584 810 044 E: info@cadmorelodge.co.uk www.cadmorelodge.co.uk
93
Cadmore Lodge v2.indd 93
03/11/2015 11:58
HOME, HOUSE AND GARDEN
Blending quality and affordability, Omniblend is the gadget that can transform your kitchen disasters into kitchen dreams.
We don’t believe in one size fits all when it comes to blenders. Whether it’s for your business or your home, we want your blender to fit your needs. That’s why we have five steps to your perfect blender. First of all you need to choose your base unit from a variety of strengths. Next, you can select from a choice of colours, so you can make sure your blender doesn’t look out of place. Now it’s time to choose your jug, so that you can tailor your blender to your exact requirements. It’s time to get creative now, because Step Four is your accessories. Whether it’s a summer
or winter recipe book or an Omnishield, your accessories can really help you get the most out of your Omniblend. Last but not least, choose your delivery. Hey presto! Your perfect Omniblend will be delivered straight to your door.
So what next? Don’t let your brand new Omniblend gather dust. We’ve put together ten creative ways you can make your Omniblend earn its keep.
94
Omniblend DPS V2.indd 94
30/10/2015 10:53
1. CHOPPING ONIONS Put that knife down and wipe away those tears. Omniblend takes away the pain of chopping onions once and for all. Simply peel the onion, chop it into manageable quarters, pop it in and press the button. As simple as that.
2. ICE CREAM Hokey Pokey, Coffee Biscotti, Triple Chocolate or even just Vanilla, Omniblend can help you create delicious ice cream – whether it’s for customers or your family.
3. COCKTAILS Invite your friends round this weekend for a cocktail party and have fun getting creative with Omniblend. From Daiquiris to Cosmopolitans, Omniblend can help you create a night to remember (or not).
4. SMOOTHIES Smoothies can be a refreshing kickstart to your day and the perfect way to get your five a day.
5. SOUP As the winter months draw closer, warm your hands around a cup of soup. Stay safe with tomato or chicken, or for something a bit more unusual try vanilla and pear or banana and ginger.
6. PESTO We think homemade pesto beats jarred pesto every time. Whether it’s spread over a big bowl of pasta or fresh pizza dough, let Omniblend help you create pesto so yummy your guests are sure to be impressed.
7. HAZELNUT CHOCOLATE SPREAD Enjoy all the deliciousness of Nutella without the guilt. Drizzle it over your cereal or a banana or just grab yourself a spoon and get stuck in. We won’t tell anyone.
8. SORBET Perfect for a classy dinner party or a healthy alternative to ice cream, Omniblend can help you create sorbet to remember.
9. SALSA Whether it’s a dip for crisps or for nachos, salsa is a tasty side to a wide variety of snacks and meals.
10. BABY FOOD Omniblend can help make dinner time with a baby easy. Pop in a bit of whatever you’re eating for dinner and Omniblend will help make it the perfect consistency for young children.
For more information on Omniblend, please visit: www.jtcomniblend.co.uk 95
Omniblend DPS V2.indd 95
30/10/2015 10:54
RESTAURANT GUIDE
INSPIRATIONAL
RESTAURANT GUIDE Everyone loves a good meal don’t they? Here at Inspirational Magazine we certainly do, so we were thrilled to be given the opportunity to pick the brains of MasterChef host, Gregg Wallace, to find out what’s warming his taste buds this winter in the West Midlands. Based on Gregg’s expert knowledge of our region’s top restaurants, we have prepared this crucial fine dining guide to aid you in seeking out the best cuisine to get you through the cold winter months ahead. Our culinary tour begins at Cielo, a stylish Italian restaurant, which continues to raise the bar offering modern interpretations of Italian classics in their understated, chic venue. We also explore the Anglo-French influences on show at Edmunds Restaurant in the centre of Birmingham and we’ll venture out to several top restaurants at the Mailbox, before seeing what the luxurious Eden Hotel Collection has to offer at its fine dining establishments, There are plenty more suburb eateries to discover in the following pages and it’s easy to see why we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to seasonal treats here in the West Midlands. Find these, and plenty more in the following pages, and become utterly spoilt by these West Midlands’ seasonal delights.
Taken from Gr egg’s book Ve
g, The G
reengrocer’s Cookbook ava il Lamb and ve 60g (2 and
able no w.
LAMB STE W
g are a greeng
Serves 4-6 a quarter oz
rocer ’s dream
Method
combination!
1. Preheat
the oven to butter) 170 degrees degrees F/g C/325 1 tbsp vege as mark 3. table oil 2. Melt the 1.5kg (3lb 5o bu tte z) boned r and oil in shoulder of lar ge ove nproof pot lamb, cube over a mediu d m heat. Add the cu bes of lamb 2 onions, fin – don’t crowd ely sliced the pot, do this in batch es. Once the 2 tbsp plain are brown all y flour over, remove from the po and keep to 450g (1lb) po t one side wh tatoes ilst you res fry t. Remove all roughly chop the the lamb fro ped m the pot. 3. Add the 225g (8oz) onions to the tomatoes, pot and coo until they are k skinned an slightly bro d chopped wn. Stir in the flour and coo k, stirring, for 1 x bouque a cou mi ple of nutes. t garni salt & black 4. Return the pepper meat to the 1 litre (1 & pot and add three quarter po tat oes, tomato the pints) lamb, chick es, bouquet en or vegetab garni, salt and pepper le to tas
stock 225g (8oz) small turnip s, peeled and quartered 350g (12oz ) baby carro ts, sliced z) very small new potatoe s
675g (1lb 8o
450g (1lb) pe
as, podded
te, and stock. the boil, cov Bring to er, and place in the oven 1 hour. for
5. Remove
the pot from the oven. Un and mash the cover, potatoes as much as you can. Add the turnips and carrots, cov and return er, to the oven for another hour.
6. Towards
the end of the cooking tim bring a large e, pan of salted water to the boil. Add the new potatoes and parboil for 5 minutes . Drain. 7. When the lamb has bee n cooking for 2 hours, ad d the cooked new potatoes and the peas to the lamb and return to the oven for a furthe r 20 minutes Checking the . seasoning bef ore serving.
For more information on Gregg Wallace or to enquire about him appearing at your event, simply contact Victoria Marconetto at Champions (UK) plc on 07791 508 235 or email vmarconetto@championsukplc.com. Alternatively, please contact Jack Hayes by calling 07772 440 596 or 08453 31 30 31 or email jackhayes@championsukplc.com. 96
Restaurant Guide Issue v3.indd 96
03/11/2015 12:00
EDMUNDS FRENCH FINE DINING
Bon
CHEF DE CUISINE - Didier Philipot
E N J O Y
5 0 %
Appetit
O F F
TUES - FRIDAY LUNCH 12-2 & TUESDAY-THURSDAY DINNER 5-10
O F F I C I A L LY S P O N S O R E D BY
0121 633 4944 6 BRINDLEYPLACE
Restaurant Guide Issue v2.indd 97
BIRMINGHAM B1 2JB
WWW.EDMUNDSRESTAURANT.COM
97
30/10/2015 10:54
FINE DINING GUIDE RESTAURANT GUIDE
Bellissimo! A top Birmingham restaurant is celebrating after being named the Best Italian Restaurant in England in a prestigious national competition. Cielo Italian in Brindleyplace beat off competition from hundreds of other restaurants to lift the trophy at a glittering awards’ ceremony in Manchester after judges decided it was the finest in the country. The awards, the first of their kind, aim to reward those making an outstanding contribution to the EnglishItalian food community and as a way of recognising top class Italian businesses here in the UK. Cielo, a family run restaurant, which has been based in the city for 11 years, was singled out for its’ food, ambience, decor and high levels of service. The winner was selected from a combination of votes from the public and the verdict of a panel of independent judges who visited restaurants and sampled a three course menu with wine. They scored each venue on its’ food, ambience, the decor and the level of service and cleanliness. 100 98
Cielo.indd Guide 100 Issue v2.indd 98 Restaurant
Cielo scored the highest mark in each section beating every other Italian restaurant in England to take the coveted crown. Owners Costas and Chris Papachristoforou said the news that their family’s business had won had come as a “very pleasant surprise” also said that the award had been a well-deserved recognition of the hard work that the entire team had put in to establish the restaurant’s consistent reputation over the last decade. They said: “Over the last 11 years we have worked tirelessly to constantly improve in all aspects of the operation, from the quality of the food to the service and the ambience. “This award makes all of the effort and stress worthwhile. It is a difficult business to be in with so many new restaurants opening around us all the time but this now proves what we have long known - that our food and service is second to none.” They added that the restaurant was going to continue to stay one step ahead of the competition - with plans for a new al fresco dining terrace providing outdoor dining all year round.
Michael McFarlane, spokesman for The Italian Awards, said: “This is the first year we have run the awards and Cielo did amazingly well as we had literally hundreds of entries from London, Manchester and beyond. “In the end competition was so fierce that we drew up a Shortlist of 10 finalists because it was so hard just to pick five! “Cielo can now enjoy their trophy but more importantly kudos of knowing they are the best Italian in England for the next 12 months!”
FOR RESERVATIONS
tel: 0121 632 6882 6 Oozells Square Brindleyplace Birmingham B1 2JB
www.cielobirmingham.com 28/10/2015 10:54 15:46 30/10/2015
L O U N G E
T H E
U LT I M AT E ,
B A R
S O P H I S T I C AT E D
H A N G - O U T
B I R M I N G H A M ’ S M O S T - C O V E T E D W E E K E N D E V E N T S A N D A L U C I A N TA PA S M E N U W E D N E S D AY - S AT U R D AY E X C L U S I V E P R I VAT E PA R T I E S C AT E R E D F O R
F O R S T E P H @ N U V O B A R . C O M 15:46
Restaurant Guide Issue v2.indd 99
0 1 2 1
6 3 1
I N F O R M AT I O N
1 6 0 0
1 1
B R I N D L E Y
P L A C E ,
B I R M I N G H A M
B 1
99 2 L P 30/10/2015 10:54
RESTAURANT GUIDE
Hotel La Tour, Albert Street, Birmingham, B5 5JE 0121 718 8000 | www.mpwrestaurants.com enquiries@mpwchophousebirmingham.com 100
Restaurant Guide Issue v2.indd 100
30/10/2015 10:54
Marco Pierre White Has Arrived Introducing Mr White’s English Chophouse – Marco Pierre White’s © THE ESTATE OF BOB CARLOS CLARKE 101
Restaurant Guide Issue v2.indd 101
30/10/2015 10:54
RESTAURANT GUIDE
DINING at
Inspirational visits six restaurants at The Mailbox...
GAS STREET SOCIAL
EVERYMAN CINEMA
CHEZ MAL
Having opened earlier this year, Gas Street Social serves up seasonal, locally sourced European dishes, alongside a comprehensive drinks list including international craft beers, fine wines and signature handcrafted cocktails.
Since its opening in February, Everyman Cinema has already become one of the Mailbox’s most-loved venues. In addition to its signature sofa seating across its three screens, Everyman Mailbox also boasts a luxurious bar and lounge area, offering a selection of fine wines, champagnes, beers, cocktails and handpicked snacks.
The newly revamped Chez Mal lies within Malmaison, delivering French classics with a distinctly British influence. With a daily ‘plat du jour’, alongside a menu of French inspired favourites, there are plenty of dishes to tempt you.
On the menu, you’ll find a range of tried and tested sharing dishes, grazing boards, tapas-style social plates, and British meats and seafood, including the wood smoked Loch Duart salmon skewers with pickled ginger and the pan-seared Tidenham duck breast with a homemade twelve spice sauce. Speciality cocktails from the Shaker Group, the team behind the venue, are also proving popular, like ‘The Socialite’, which combines Finlandia vodka, Aperol, pineapple, lime and passion fruit. Centred on the concept of sharing and socialising, Gas Street Social features large group tables, intimate booth areas and a cosy ‘social’ area. As the perfect venue for quick bites and lazy catch ups, the bar provides a social hub in the city centre over the weekend, for late night drinks and music.
The food menu at Everyman is filled with cinema favourites, including pizzas and hot dogs with an Everyman touch. Not to be missed is the popular ‘Spielburger’; its signature gourmet hamburger topped with your choice of cheese, dressed with house sauce and wrapped in a glazed brioche bun. With the option to enjoy your meal in the bar and lounge area, even if you aren’t booked in for a film, or have your food delivered directly to your cinema seat, Everyman combines film and food in its luxurious canalside location.
With options including Meantime moules, strip steaks and grilled lobster béarnaise, there’s also the famed unlimited Sunday lunch which is the ultimate way to enjoy your roast. Chez Mal will draw you right in with its classical and chic elegance, accompanied by a fully stocked bar featuring craft beers on tap, signature ‘Malchemy’ cocktails and a selection of fine wines. Not just for hotel guests, Chez Mal offers an exciting culinary experience at the Mailbox.
v
Food Served: Food served: Monday to Sunday: 12noon - 9.30pm Gas Street Social 166-168 Wharfside Street, Mailbox, Birmingham B1 1RL Tel: (0121) 643 0362 www.mailboxlife.com/brand/gas-street-social
Food Served: Monday to Sunday: 12noon - approximately 10.00pm each day,
dependant on film schedule. Please contact cinema for more information.
LUNCH - Monday - Saturday: 12noon - 5.30pm Sunday: 1.00pm - 4.00pm DINNER - Monday - Sunday: 6.00pm - 11.00pm
Everyman 166 Wharfside Street, Mailbox, Birmingham B1 1RF Tel: (0871) 906 9060 www.mailboxlife.com/everyman-cinema
Red Peppers: 1 Wharfside Street, Mailbox, Birmingham B1 1RF Tel: (0121) 246 5001 www.mailboxlife.com/brand/malmaison-brasserie
102
Restaurant Guide Issue v2.indd 102
30/10/2015 10:54
The Mailbox provides the perfect setting for lazy lunches and date-night dinners, with an enviable range of canalside bars and restaurants. Whether it’s a quick catch up with friends, or a special occasion, here’s a guide to some of the options available.
GOURMET BURGER KITCHEN With a fresh new design offering a retro diner feel, Gourmet Burger Kitchen delivers what it does best; a range of delicious and exciting burgers. Choose from favourites like The Don, Blazing Sombrero and The Taxi Driver, alongside lamb, cod, falafel, and even buffalo burgers. There’s also the option to customise your burger with additional toppings or to go bunless, ensuring even the most ardent burger buff isn’t short of options. The tempting milkshake menu provides the perfect accompaniment to your meal, made with real dairy ice cream for an indulgent treat. From the popular Oreo, Peanut Butter and Honeycomb flavours, to the classic Vanilla, Chocolate and Strawberry, there’s a milkshake to suit every mood.
RED PEPPERS
Red Peppers offers a mouth-watering menu, with an eclectic mix of flavours from around the world. Diners can enjoy Asian inspired dishes including the speciality chicken coconut curry, alongside Greek classics like the lamb moussaka or chicken souvlaki. There’s also Mexican and Italian inspired meals, delivering something everyone can enjoy. Red Peppers also has lunchtime covered, with a dedicated menu filled with lighter meals, sandwiches and wraps. You’ll find classic sandwiches like a BLT and chicken club wrap, alongside grilled halloumi and a selection of pizzettas, plus a daily board of specials too.
BAR EPERNAY
Bar Epernay is one of Birmingham’s most sophisticated bars and restaurants. Situated in the canalside area of the Mailbox, the champagne and piano bar provides the perfect setting to relax in style. The menu features traditional British ingredients with contemporary flair, offering a selection of dishes to cater for both lunch and dinner. From deli sandwiches, like the toasted goats cheese and cranberry served on ciabatta or a bloomer, to a roasted chump of lamb with a herb crust as a main meal, there’s also a range of deli boards and fresh specials each day.
Featuring a private reservation area downstairs with a capacity for 100 guests, Red Peppers is also an ideal venue to host parties and functions.
Bar Epernay also delivers a range of classic and signature cocktails and an Afternoon Tea complete with champagne, providing an elegant and sophisticated venue in the heart of the city centre.
Monday – Friday: 12noon - 11.00pm Saturday: 11.00am - 11.00pm Sunday: 11.00am - 10.00pm
Food served:
Food served:
Sun - Thur: 12noon - 10.30pm Fri - Sat: 12noon - 11.30pm
Monday - Saturday: 12noon - 10.00pm Sunday : 12noon - 8.00pm
Gourmet Burger Kitchen 113-115 Wharfside Street, Mailbox, Birmingham B1 1RF Tel: (0121) 633 8564 www.mailboxlife.com/brand/gourmet-burger-kitchen
Red Peppers 117 Wharfside Street, Mailbox, Birmingham B1 1RF Tel: (0121) 643 4202 www.mailboxlife.com/brand/red-peppers
Bar Epernay 171-172 Wharfside Street, Mailbox, Birmingham B1 1RL Tel: 0121 632 1430 www.mailboxlife.com/brand/bar-epernay
Food served:
www.mailboxlife.com For information please call:
0121 632 1000 Follow us on Twitter - @mailboxlife Like us on Facebook - Mailbox Life Park at The Mailbox to visit all these restaurants and many more. Wharfside Street, The Mailbox, Birmingham, B1 1RD
103
Restaurant Guide Issue v2.indd 103
30/10/2015 10:55
RESTAURANT GUIDE
INSPIRATIONAL
RESTAURANT GUIDE
THE BRASSERIE at MALLORY COURT
THE DINING ROOM at MALLORY COURT
Leamington Spa, Warwickshire
Leamington Spa, Warwickshire
Providing a laid-back atmosphere with an art-deco inspired interior, the Brasserie serves delicious modern European dishes and British classics, and has been celebrated with two AA Rosettes.
For those looking for a high-quality, fine dining experience, the newly refurbished Dining Room at Mallory Court Hotel boasts opulent surroundings, a world-class menu and a huge number of awards and accolades including an ‘AA Noteable Wine List’ award. The beautiful oak-panelled restaurant has incomparable views of the gardens and Warwickshire countryside beyond.
In the stunning grounds of Mallory Court Hotel, the Brasserie provides a spectacular dining experience at affordable prices. A fully-stocked cocktail bar, upstairs area for private functions and walled garden for al fresco dining enhance the restaurant. The hugely popular ‘Jazz in the Braz’ events bring music from some of the region’s leading jazz musicians. Guests can relax and unwind to the soothing sounds of jazz whilst enjoying a meal or drinks in chic surroundings. Ideal for relaxing with friends and family at an informal dinner, the Brasserie ensures unparalleled hospitality that creates memorable experiences for every diner that visits.
Head chef Paul Foster and his team are deeply passionate about each and every dish, dedication that earned Mallory Court’s Dining Room a coveted 3 AA Rosettes. With menus bursting with rich flavour and innovation, the dishes reflect the best seasonal produce from local suppliers and the hotel’s own well stocked kitchen gardens and are regularly refreshed to showcase the latest creations from the kitchen.
THE WATERSIDE BRASSERIE Stratford-upon-Avon
The Waterside Brasserie offers guests a relaxed dining experience in a chic environment, complete with its own Champagne Bar and beautiful interiors. Behind the scenes the hand-picked kitchen team work hard to ensure each and every customer enjoys exceptional food showcasing the best local seasonal ingredients available. Commitment to sustainability, traceability and the environment sets The Waterside Brasserie as a champion of food excellence, introducing customers to some of the finest artisan producers in Stratford and the bountiful countryside beyond.
The Dining Room puts food and drink at the forefront of the guest experience and combine using modern techniques with revisiting ones which have been forgotten. Catering for everything from afternoon tea to lavish private banquets, the experienced team at Mallory Court Hotel meet their guests’ every desire.
Open all day Monday to Saturday 12noon - 2.30pm (last orders) 6.30pm - 9.30pm (last orders) and for Sunday lunch 12noon - 3.30pm (last orders). It is closed on Sunday evening.
Lunch 12noon last orders 1.45pm (closed Saturday Lunch) Dinner 6.30pm last orders 9.00pm (last orders on a Sunday 8.30pm)
Food is served between 7.00am and 11.00pm Breakfast: 7.00am - 10.00pm Lunch: 1.30pm - 3.00pm Afternoon Tea and snacks :3.00pm - 5.00pm Dinner: 5.00pm - 9.45pm Late supper: 10.00pm - 11.00pm Tea & Coffee served all day
The Brasserie at Mallory Court Harbury Lane, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, CV33 9QB Tel: (01926) 453 939 www.mallory.co.uk
The Dining Room at Mallory Court Harbury Lane, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, CV33 9QB Tel: (01926) 330 214 www.mallory.co.uk
The Waterside Brasserie Waterside, Straford-upon-Avon CV37 6BA Tel: (01789) 298 682 www.theardenhotelstratford.com
104
Restaurant Guide Issue v2.indd 104
30/10/2015 10:55
ADAM’S
FINEST CATCH
FINEST CATCH
Birmingham
Henley-in-Arden
Shirley
Awarded a coveted Michelin star less than six months after opening its doors, adam’s restaurant of Birmingham has quickly become a premier culinary destination in the city. Run by husband and wife team Adam and Natasha Stokes, the restaurant delivers hugely innovative food that pushes the limits of modern cuisine.
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 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.
Food Served:
Food Served:
Food Served:
Tuesday - Saturday: 12noon - 2pm | 7.00pm - 9:30pm
12.00noon - 10.00pm seven days a week
12.00noon - 10.00pm seven days a week
adam’s 21a Bennetts Hill, Birmingham B2 5QP Tel: (0121) 643 3745 www.adamsrestaurant.co.uk
Finest Catch Birmingham Road, Henley-in-Arden B95 5QR Tel: (01564) 793 783 www.finestcatch.co.uk
Finest Catch 1097 Stratford Road, Shirley B90 4ED Tel: (0121) 557 0486 www.finestcatch.co.uk
An exclusive location, adam’s is limited to 26 guests in any sitting, however thanks to the success of the restaurant, 2015 brings plans to relocate to expand with the inclusion of a bar and wine cellar. Adam Stokes’ vision for his restaurant is clear: “My aim is not to baffle, but to excite and enthuse guests with the accurate cooking of quality ingredients served in an approachable environment. We hope to create a unique experience for each diner within our friendly and professional restaurant.” The fine dining experience on offer at adam’s is a spectacle not to be missed.
105
Restaurant Guide Issue v2.indd 105
30/10/2015 10:55
ENGLAND’S LEADING RESORT 2015
The Ryder Grill at The Belfry At The Ryder Grill, our Chef’s create dishes from the highest quality ingredients, freshly selected and lovingly prepared. Succulent steaks, chargrills and spit roasts, fish and lobster all designed to enhance your culinary experience.
TO BOOK VISIT WWW.THEBELFRY.COM OR CALL US ON 0844 980 0600 51
106 Belfy Rest Guide.indd 51
29/10/2015 19:45
BUSINESS AND FINANCE
DOMINIC HOLLAND Master of Ceremonies, Master of Comedy, Master of Awards. 108
Dom Holland DPS.indd 108
30/10/2015 11:46
A Perrier Award winning comedian, author and broadcaster, Dominic Holland is a seasoned after dinner speaker, conference presenter and television personality. With countless TV and radio appearances under his belt over the last three decades, including a sublime showing at The Royal Variety Performance, Dominic is familiar to us all. He is a regular panellist on Have I Got News For You, frequently appears on The Wright Stuff and has produced three comedy series for BBC Radio 4. Described by many as ‘the UK’s master of observational comedy’, Dominic’s quality stand-up routines have to be seen in the flesh to be fully appreciated. He has won several awards for his work on-stage, not least the Perrier Award as one of the best on show at the Edinburgh Festival. Appearing regularly at some of the biggest comedy clubs in the country Dominic Holland is a regular at both the Comedy Store and Jongleurs. His material is creative and original and his stage presence is personable but quick. Heralded by many as one of the greatest event comedians currently working in the UK, Dominic is a joy to watch. Dominic is equally well-regarded for his prolific writing. On top of producing material for his own performances, he is often credited as the talent behind the success of other comedians, writing some of the best lines ever delivered by the likes of Sir Lenny Henry, Harry Enfield, Clive Anderson and even the late, great Bob Monkhouse OBE. And the writing goes on. Dominic is a regular contributor to a number of trade publications and wrote a well-received column for The Guardian. He has published numerous short stories in magazines and has now penned five books. His fourth, Open Links, tells the life-affirming story of up-and-coming golfer Ricky Randall as he battles through the final round at a fictional Muirfield Open Championship. Dominic knows more than a thing or two about golf, and acted as the host across all four days of the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship 2015 including the three Gala Balls where he displayed his masterful skills. The proceeds of his books go to the long-standing Anthony Nolan charity which does so much great work for those suffering from blood cancers. His most recent publication, How Tom Holland Eclipsed His Dad, is a self-deprecating tale about the show business success of his eldest son.
Tom first came to widespread attention aged 12 in Billy Elliot: The Musical after a choreographer spotted him performing with his Wimbledon-based dance school. He graduated to the title role after mere months of playing Billy’s friend Michael. He subsequently appeared alongside Naomi Watts and Ewan McGregor in the tsunami drama The Impossible and in the BBC’s dramatisation of Wolf Hall. Tom’s career continues to move on apace. It was announced in June that he is to take on leading man status in the forthcoming Hollywood blockbuster Captain America: Civil War, so Tom is the new Spiderman! After being introduced in the role alongside other Marvel characters, Tom is to star as Peter Parker in his own as yet untitled movie to be released in 2017. Back in real world and away from comic book fantasy, Dominic is among the most talented event hosts on the UK circuit. Such is the demand for his work, his schedule is packed with international engagements. Dominic has really impressed audiences at corporate events for such major names as Mazda, Bupa, Barclays, British Gas, Waitrose, Canon, Deloitte, British Airways, Hyundai, BP, Microsoft, Nissan, Asda, Iceland, Shell and many, many more. A great friend of leading brand agency Champions (UK) plc, Dominic hosted a special event which celebrated the opening of their new offices in the Midlands. Equally at home entertaining audiences at small, private functions or huge corporate events, Dominic is loved and respected on the business entertainment circuit as a comedian with the ability to ad-lib with ease during shows and presentations, making them far more interesting, accessible and memorable than strictly script-based performances.
To book Dominic Holland, simply contact Cat Mitchell at Champions (UK) plc today by calling 07824 163 193 or 08453 31 30 31. Alternatively, email cmitchell@championsukplc.com
109
Dom Holland DPS.indd 109
30/10/2015 11:46
BUSINESS AND FINANCE
A LITTLE KNOWLEDGE CAN GO A LONG WAY Pensions Freedom is good news, with more retirement opportunities than ever before. However, there is a range of complex considerations to take into account first. Very few of the frequent changes that take place in the world of personal finance – many of them imposed by governments and regulators – make much of an impact outside the industry itself. But the changes in the pension rules, described under the heading ‘Pensions Freedom’ and implemented at the start of the current tax year, are an exception. For those aged 50 or over, the new rules have quite rightly been described as the most important changes to the pension regime for decades: they will, however, be equally significant for those in their 20s, 30s and 40s, too. The reason is simple: the changes are potentially too important to ignore and, unusually for legislative changes, the implications could be positive for a significant number of people. The changes affect what you can now do with the pension savings you’ve accumulated over the years. There are, of course, caveats. The new rules apply only to one type of pension, known as ‘defined contribution’ schemes, and not to final salary schemes common in the public sector and some companies. While it may be possible to convert a final salary scheme into one which qualifies for the Pensions Freedom benefits, these schemes can carry significant other benefits and it is essential to seek advice before taking such a major step. It’s also important to understand that, while the freedoms may generally be favourable, there are some potential tax drawbacks, along with some other restrictions, that must be taken into account before making any decisions. First, the good news: as far as the essence of Pensions Freedom is concerned, the clue is in the name. The key milestone is your 55th birthday – because from then onwards there will be complete freedom to take as much or as little of the money in your pension fund as you like, although your choice could have tax repercussions, described in more detail over the page.
“Now you can take some money from your pension pot to tide you over”
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.
110
SJP 3 pages v5.indd 110
04/11/2015 15:46
111
SJP 3 pages v5.indd 111
04/11/2015 15:46
BUSINESS AND FINANCE
This means, crucially, that getting access to pension savings need not wait until retirement, although of course it will still be an option to leave savings to grow until a retirement date is reached. Indeed, for many people, that will actually be the most sensible option as pension savings are, by their very nature, intended to provide financial support through a long retirement. But now there are plenty of other options, too. First, some may find it useful to draw upon pension savings long before they are ready to retire. These days, people in the later stages of their working lives can find things getting a bit bumpy, with gaps in their pattern of employment as they opt to reduce their hours or change careers, which can leave gaps in their income. The result can be cash flow problems that make it hard to cope with the costs of family living – school and university fees, even mortgages. Now, if necessary, it will be possible to take some money from a pension pot to cover such contingencies – and then, subject to certain limits, pay it back in when a new job is started. Now for the bad news: complete Pensions Freedom could come with a tax cost. Under the new regime, you will no longer be restricted to taking only 25% up front as a tax-free lump sum. Instead, you can choose to take lump sums when you need them – with the first 25% of any such payment paid tax-free and the remainder taxed at your highest marginal rate. While the reforms make the whole business of pension planning much more flexible, they should not detract from the fact that pensions are a long-term savings vehicle. Most people dramatically underestimate their life expectancy: a 65-year-old man could expect to live for a further 18.6 years, according to calculations from the Office for National Statistics; while a woman’s life expectancy at that age is even higher, at 21.1 years. A pension fund may, therefore, need to last a considerable amount of time: the more you take out of it in a lump sum, the less that will remain to generate an income in retirement.
The tax benefits attached to pension fund contributions have been steadily eroded: the maximum annual contribution is now £40,000 and the Chancellor announced a further restriction in the Budget in March, cutting the maximum amount that can be accumulated, tax-free, in a pension pot to £1 million, from April next year. But they are still generous enough to mean that pensions should be one of the core savings vehicles for most individuals. The tax concessions, combined with complete freedom to access your money after 55, means that, for many people, it would make sense to think of their pension as their main long-term savings vehicle – or, at the very least, as one of the biggest components of their long-term financial planning. From now on, pension saving can be about far more than just retirement – it can allow almost complete flexibility in managing your financial affairs later in life. In summary, while Pensions Freedom is undoubtedly welcome, opening more opportunities than ever before, it also adds extra layers of decision-making to the process of retirement, and makes the decision on how, and when, to take benefits even more complex. Whatever your existing pension arrangements, plans for the future contributions or plans to take advantage of the new pension freedom, it is essential that you consider your options and their implications carefully before taking any decisions. Before rushing out to use your pensions to buy a Lamborghini, as pensions minister Steve Webb alluded to, you should seek professional advice. Whether you’re already well past the age of 55, just coming up to that magic age, or still planning for it from a long way in advance, it’s a financial issue that’s too important to ignore – and, for once, in a good way. The levels and bases of taxation and reliefs from taxation can change at any time. The value of any tax relief depends on individual circumstances.
For more information contact:
Janine Edwards Principal Partner of St. James’s Place Wealth Management Tel: 01676 530606 Email: Janine.edwards@sjpp.co.uk Web: www.janineedwards.co.uk
The Partner represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of 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.
112
SJP 3 pages v5.indd 112
04/11/2015 15:46
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. The 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 Email:
MahiMahi@TobagoBeachApartment.com Telephone:
07544 051 991 113
Mahi Mahi.indd 113
29/10/2015 19:28
BUSINESS AND FINANCE
OFFICIAL
Official supplier to Champions (UK) plc
First impressions count... In businesses of all kinds, giving clients the best impression of your company from the moment they walk through the door is essential in building lasting relationships. A front desk presence keeps track of who is in the building, makes clients feel at ease and presents your company in the best light when they form that all-important first impression. Launched in 2011 by leading IT firm MT Services, the Sinica Visitor & Staff Management System was designed with all this in mind. Sinica was originally created as a Virtual
In just four years, Sinica’s functions have
Receptionist, greeting users with a
significantly evolved and its range of practical
assigned to RFIDs, enabling your company to
warm and welcoming voice, logging their
benefits mean that it is much more than
see when all individuals arrived and departed.
information through an easy-to-use
simply window dressing for companies
This sign in and sign out feature for staff and
interface and printing out a personalised
in a variety of sectors. Sinica can support
visitors, enables the Emergency Roll Call
Sinica also allows all staff to be enrolled and
visitor badge. Allowing companies to
your business by showing your company’s
feature to highlight all individuals on site at
replace their old visitors’ book, this system
Health & Safety Policy on an interactive
any given time. Not only this, you can capture
instantly presents businesses as forward-
touchscreen, as well as asking visitors and
the data of everyone who signs in to the
thinking and innovative.
staff key questions that ensure your legal
system and build a network of contacts which
obligations are fulfilled.
is so crucial in growing any business.
114
Sinica DPS V2.indd 114
30/10/2015 11:01
Through consultation with their clients, the team at MT Services have been able to refine Sinica’s capabilities to perfectly suit their need. The company’s customer portfolio continues to expand and now includes businesses ranging from SMEs to major corporations such as Cadbury, Florette, Network Rail, Mondelez, Chaucer Foods and Veolia. Over the last six months, the demand for Sinica has increased dramatically as its functionality continues to improve and companies fully appreciate the opportunities it unlocks for them. The latest addition to the suite is Sinica Permit to Work which replaces existing manual systems and offers significant overhead cost savings.
The choice of Champions Leading brand and celebrity management
regularly welcomes a host of high profile
the premises whilst conforming to health
agency Champions (UK) plc found the need
names through its doors and so giving clients
& safety standards. Since it was installed,
for a front desk presence after growing
a good first impression was extremely
it has proved an unprecedented success
quickly from a team of five working from
important to the agency.
and has further facilitated the growth of the
a house, to a workforce of more
innovative brand agency.
As a system, Sinica proved to be the ideal
than 50 staff at a large office block.
match for the requirements of Champions,
A company that prides itself on its forward-
allowing the company to keep an accurate
thinking approach, the brand agency
log of each and every individual who enters
“Sinica has been a major contributor to the positive Health and Safety ethos of Mondelez and the system has been welcomed by our staff and complemented by our visitors, including contractors, customers and suppliers.” Margaret McDavid, Mondelez International, Minworth Depot Support Manager
/pages/Sinica-Visitor-Staff-Management-System
/company/1086587
@SinicaVSMSystem
/110611674065827490020
www.sinica.co.uk
t: 01827 62155
|
m: 01827 62155
|
e: sales@sinica.co.uk
|
1 Sandy Hill Park, Amington, Tamworth, Staffordshire B77 4DU 115
Sinica DPS V2.indd 115
30/10/2015 11:01
BUSINESS AND FINANCE
MAKING STEEL WORK SINCE 1925 Adey Steel have recently celebrated 90 years in business, a family owned company which started in 1925 and is a leading supplier within the Steel Industry. They have recently unveiled a complete corporate rebrand co-ordinated by Champions (UK) plc to successfully bring all four companies under the new Adey Steel Group name. This new structure gives their suppliers and customers definition between the broad range of specialist services that they offer. Adey Steel Group began in 1925 as the local ironmongers in Loughborough town centre by Harry Adey and his wife. The business has been kept in the family, seeing all four generations of the Adey sons managing the family business. Previously known as Adey Group, the steel company merged its four businesses under one overarching brand, Adey Steel Group. Each aspect of the group has its own products that are supplied to varying industries and consumers. Adey Steel Group is proud to be both a B2B and B2C firm, a trait that shows how diverse the Loughborough Based steelworks has become.
Adey Steel Group’s newly defined business areas are: ADEY STEEL – Previously Adey Steel Limited. Steel fabrication specialist serving the construction, infrastructure and engineering sectors.
The first Adey premises 90 years ago in Loughborough, Leicestershire.
ADEY STEELSHOP – Previously SteelShop Limited. Offering steel processing and stockholding services, particularly for the UK housebuilding industry. ADEY TECHNICAL – Previously Technical Edge Ltd. A structural design and steel detailing business offering services to the steel construction industries. ADEY TRANSPORT – Previously Transport24. Nationwide logistical and steel fabrication delivery arm of Adey Steel Group. Servicing both its intergroup companies as well as external customers, this sector is specifically designed to haul specialist steelwork. The new rebrand of the company saw the launch of a new industry leading company website, which showcases the offering of the company, as well as all new marketing materials, signage through-out the Adey Steel premises and
Overhead line electrification (OLE) Steelwork being constructed as part the Network Rail contract.
116
Adey Steel DPS.indd 116
03/11/2015 12:02
new fleet livery. The unveiling of the new branding was celebrated at a launch party at Loughborough Town Hall on Friday 2nd October 2015 - a fitting venue as Adey Steel Group created the original steelwork for the clock tower in 1980. Continually growing the business over the last 90 years, the Adey family have successfully led the company to a prominent position in the industry. Adey Steel Group is renowned in the industry for their specialisms and they have worked on large and small scale projects alike with huge brands such as Network Rail, Battersea Power Station, John Lewis, University of Nottingham, Sellafield Ltd and NET to name but a few.
Steel work at the new Nottingham Train Station
For more information on the company and to see the brand new website, please visit: www.adeysteelgroup.co.uk
117
Adey Steel DPS.indd 117
03/11/2015 12:02
BUSINESS AND FINANCE
Menthol
Me
And the winner is...
Sampler
Sam
The results are in and multiVAPE has continued to demonstrate that it is one of the premium vaping brands on the market by winning the Product Launch of the Year prize at the prestigious Retail Industry Awards. Launching their multiVAPE mod device last year with British made e-liquids, multiCIG then expanded these into new flavours this year and from there, the range has gone from strength to strength. With flavours from Tobacco and Menthol, right through to Strawberry Fields and Apple Jack, they aim to offer different variations for every vaper’s tastebuds. The annual awards, voted for by readers of trade magazine, Independent Retail News, showcases those brands which have excelled in their industry. multiVAPE e-liquids were chosen as one of these innovative products. The awards ceremony was held at Grosvenor House hotel and hosted by comedian Milton Jones, who handed out trophies to the victors. Vaping devices are receiving increasing coverage in the news and more and more people are making the switch away from traditional tobacco products. This viable alternative to cigarettes means that smokers are no longer inhaling the toxins, tar or the 4,000 chemicals found in traditional cigarettes. Hugely cost-effective, multiVAPE users find themselves making thousands of pounds of annual savings after switching to the innovative devices. Developed in partnership with Inspire, one of the world’s premier vaping brands, multiVAPE continues to lead the way in the ever-growing vaping marketplace. The bottom dual coil cartomizer used in the multiVAPE range is the first and only of its kind
and has been expertly crafted in order to deliver the very best vaping experience. Its dual coils work together to deliver twice the vapour and the perfectly designed mouthpiece provides maximum comfort. The dual coil means it burns at 1.84 Ω which produces more vapour, more quickly, compared to a usual single coil device. multiVAPE is a part of the multiCIG range. Whether you are a regular customer or are new to the multiCIG range, the new loyalty scheme, STRIPES, gives you an added incentive to order online. Earn your STRIPES each and every time you make a purchase through the multiCIG website and earn points that can be redeemed online. When you log into your store account and place an order, you will be credited points to your loyalty account. Any customer that signs up for the new loyalty scheme will receive 100 points as a welcome gift. multiCIG have also launched a new Refer a Friend scheme. If you introduce one of your friends to their fantastic range of products, multiCIG will offer both you and your friend a special reward as their way of saying thank you. multiCIG believe in offering their customers choice. A choice to switch away from traditional tobacco products, a choice of nicotine strength and a choice of e-liquid flavours. Carefully designed to take their place at the premium end of the market, multiCIG are the premier choice for both dedicated vapers and smokers wishing to move to a tobacco-free future.
118
multiCIG DPS.indd 118
30/10/2015 16:51
Menthol
Sampler
*This offer is limited to one use per customer. Voucher code is valid on all multiVAPE products and expires on May 31st 2016.
EXCLUSIVE READER OFFER WARNING multiCIG and multiVAPE products contain nicotine. Prohibited for children and young people under the age of 18 years. Keep out of reach of children. Toxic if swallowed or in contact with skin. This product is intended for existing smokers only.
Inspirational readers will receive an exclusive 20% discount on their multiVAPE order. Simply visit multiCIG.COM and enter code INSP20* at the checkout. *This offer is limited to one use per customer. Voucher code is valid on all multiVAPE products and expires on May 31st 2016.
multiCIG DPS.indd 119
119
30/10/2015 16:51
BUSINESS AND FINANCE
Dr Abraze Khalique CHAMPIONING FIVE-STAR MEDICAL CARE
A Nottinghamshire GP for nearly three decades, Dr Abraze Khalique has been an integral part of the local community since he started practicing in the East Midlands. Offering his services both through the NHS and privately, his next venture will be with leading brand agency Champions (UK) plc, working closely with their numerous celebrity clients with his holistic approach to care. Dr Khalique’s close involvement with the Nottinghamshire community began when he took over the Bilborough Medical Centre in 1990 when it was based in a semi-detached council house. His tireless work has helped the centre undergo significant expansions over the years including the addition of a dental practice and a pharmacy. At the height of the recession, he took the decision to extend opening hours to Saturday and Sunday in order to help working families who were struggling to get appointments. “Care is something I am very passionate about,” he said. “I take it very personally and I feel very much part of the community. I have a very privileged job as a GP, with lots of potential to help people. I take it very seriously.” Dr Khalique’s efforts have been recognised with numerous accolades including the Heroes of the NHS Award at the Nottingham Post Heroes Awards 2014. He was also highly commended in the Patients’ Champion Category for Excellence in General Practice Awards 2013 which recognises the GP, who by virtue of his/her selflessness and dedication to patients is judged to best represent the values of personal care and professionalism traditionally associated with the family doctor. His local community is very close to his heart and he is proud to get involved in a number of community-led projects. On top of his work at two NHS surgeries, he also sees patients privately at Nottingham Woodthorpe Hospital. Taking both a holistic and humanistic approach to care, Dr Khalique prides himself on listening to
his patients and fully understanding their issues and concerns. The doctor-patient bond, often overlooked by many GPs, is extremely important to him as he aims to understand his patient’s viewpoints and assesses their needs. Just some of his areas of specialism include mental health, drug addiction, general medicine, elderly medicine, facial aesthetics and dermatology. Always looking for new challenges and opportunities, Dr Khalique’s next venture will be to work with some of the clients at leading Midlands brand and celebrity management agency, Champions (UK) plc. Offering a holistic range of medical services, both mental and physical, his knowledge and experience will be a major benefit to Champions’ clients. With a passion for sport that is shown by his current spell as club doctor at Nottingham Rugby Club, the partnership of Dr Khalique and Champions seems like a natural fit. The brand agency sole manage a number of ex-sporting stars including most-capped England footballer Peter Shilton OBE, Ashes-winning bowler Matthew Hoggard MBE, former Olympians Derek Redmond, Gail Emms MBE, Graham Bell and Audley Harrison MBE, former F1 driver Johnny Herbert and Rugby World Cup winner Neil Back MBE. As Champions (UK) plc expands and more clients come on board, the partnership with Dr Khalique will be invaluable in offering services which cannot be found elsewhere. There’s no doubt that he will bring his caring and personable approach to form strong doctor-patient bonds, just as he has done throughout his illustrious career.
120
Dr Abraze DPS V2.indd 120
30/10/2015 16:52
Care is something I am very passionate about. I take it very personally and I feel very much part of the community.
To book an appointment with Dr. Abraze please contact Louisa Hayes at Champions (UK) plc today by calling 07887 414 536 or 08453 31 30 31 Alternatively, email lhayes2@championsukplc.com
121
Dr Abraze DPS V2.indd 121
30/10/2015 16:52
BUSINESS AND FINANCE
PEN HADOW
DEREK REDMOND
Launched in October 2015, the Champions Motivational Speakers Agency is one of the largest directories of leading motivational speakers in the world. With personalities spanning almost every life experience, from leading FTSE100 companies to exploring the farthest reaches of the earth, the agency is ideally placed to supply industry leading speakers to any form of event. Formed from the success of Champions (UK) plc’s After Dinner Speaker division, the Champions Motivational Speaker Agency specialises in the finest motivational speakers. Booking a motivational speaker for an event brings an invaluable element to proceedings. Not only can the right personality stun audiences with their own personal achievements, the life lessons that can be taught from the anecdotal tales and advice they give can have a number of benefits, from boosting productivity in the workplace to lifting a sporting team’s morale. The launch of the Champions Motivational Speakers Agency’s new website; motivationalspeakersagency.co.uk, marks the culmination of a huge amount of work to provide one of the most extensive offerings of speakers to the current market. The website makes the process of booking a motivational speaker easy; simply browse through our directory and fill in an online booking form for any of the personalities who take your fancy. Once sent, our expert sales agents will get in contact to further discuss your speaking requirements, who may also fit your brief well and the type of speech you require, be it anything from a keynote conference speaker, to a motivational session for a school visit. The Champions Motivational Speakers Agency also has a number of speakers exclusively signed to them to boot.
Pen Hadow has led a life to the full, becoming a pre-eminent explorer and the first individual to trek solo, without third party resupply, from Canada to the Geographic North Pole. A feat likened to a solo ascent of Everest without oxygen supplies, Pen’s remarkable achievement rewrote history books and set a precedent for a truly outstanding career to date. A stalwart campaigner against climate change, Pen has led pioneering research to Arctic Ocean ice thickness, covering 430km in 73 days. Pen’s extraordinary tales from his unique career resonate profoundly with both corporate and social audiences. A range of anecdotes and crucial life lessons are incorporated in Pen’s speech, alongside the ability to tailor his content to a client’s brief, an enviable ability that ensures guests go away intrigued by what he has to say. Derek Redmond is one of the most recognisable and memorable Olympians of our time. In contention for the title of Barcelona 1992 400m Olympic Champion, Derek set off at a tremendous pace in his semi-final race. Sprinting down the back straight, Derek suffered a torn hamstring, an injury that brought him to an agonising halt. Such was Derek’s determination in the face of competition, he decided not to throw in the towel, and carried on with his race regardless, defeating metre by metre as fast as his body would allow.
EXPLORERS | OLYMPIANS | LIFE COACHES | BUSINESS LEADERS | MILITARY | ENTREPRENEURS 122
Champs Motivational DPS AW2015 V2.indd 122
30/10/2015 11:06
member of
EA SB
PETE COHEN
European Association of Speakers Bureaux
GARETH DAVIS
Hobbling down the finishing straight in a sea of emotion, Derek’s father joined him on track to help him across the finish line. Voted as the 3rd most stunning Olympic moment of all time by The Guardian, Derek overcame adversity and showed tremendous courage. As a motivational speaker, Derek’s achievements and performance orientated mindset are a perfect fit for audiences looking to increase productivity, instil a winning mentality or simply hear an inspirational story from a sporting great. Derek’s infectious enthusiasm is a joy to behold and the way he interacts with guests is a skill that very rarely can be taught. Pete Cohen is a leading motivational speaker and life coach. Having worked with sporting stars such as Ronnie ‘The Rocket’ O’Sullivan, Pete has created a mentality of success with numerous people, leading to exponential gains in their professional, sporting and social worlds. A captivating motivational speaker who challenges audiences to go against convention, step outside their comfort zone and take that extra step to achieve what they have always wanted, Pete’s techniques and processes have been voiced to huge corporations including IBM, Virgin, Coutts and EDF, to name but a few. A confident and engaging personality who is sure to make you think differently about the world, Pete is a personality and motivational speaker not to be missed.
Gareth Davis is one of the most influential voices in British business. Becoming Chief Executive of Imperial Tobacco in 1996, during his time at the helm, Gareth led the firm’s demerger from Hanson as well as subsequent dual listings on the London and New York Stock Exchanges. Imperial were listed immediately at 96 on the FTSE 100, a ranking Gareth would improve to 25 by the time of he left the corporation in 2010. Specialising in internationalism, corporate strategic planning, mergers and acquisitions, Gareth’s talks as a corporate motivational speaker are hugely insightful and have applicability to almost any business, from small start ups to multinational corporations.
Contact the Champions Motivational Speakers Agency today and benefit from the decades of experience our team possess, the terrific celebrity reach we enjoy and the customer service that will make booking with us thoroughly beneficial. Call Jack Hayes on +44 1509 85 29 27 or 08453 31 30 31. Alternatively, email jackhayes@championsukplc.com
www.motivationalspeakersagency.co.uk 123
Champs Motivational DPS AW2015 V2.indd 123
30/10/2015 11:06
BUSINESS AND FINANCE
BLUE With a vast repertoire of acts on its books, Champions Music & Entertainment specialises in finding the perfect match for its clients’ events, offering an array of bands, solo artists, DJs, dance troupes, comedians and other entertainers to cater for any kind of occasion.
Champions Music & Entertainment is a division of Champions (UK) plc, which is one of the country’s leading brand agencies and has received widespread national recognition since its establishment in 2003. Champions Music & Entertainment was conceived out of the success of its parent company’s after dinner speaker department, Champions Speakers, which continues to be one of the leading booking agencies in the country, with more than 500 speakers booked each year. This success led to Champions (UK) plc being appointed exclusive entertainment, strategy and delivery partners of Grosvenor Casinos in 2015. The two entities are working together to create the UK’s best entertainment offering, with exclusive acts taking to the stage to dazzle audiences time and time again.
The partnership has already seen Champions (UK) plc become one of the most prominent booking agents for intermediate level music acts in the nation, and from this strong position, the company has taken the next logical step by establishing Champions Music & Entertainment. Champions (UK) plc have long enjoyed a history of success within the music industry – a number of national superstars are signed to the company, including boyband sensation Blue and two notable X Factor alumni: 2013 winner Sam Bailey and 2005 runner-up Andy Abraham. The decision to further establish Champions (UK) plc in the music and entertainment industry has also had the benefit of the Executive Vice President of the Agents’ Association of Great Britain, Alan Warner FEAA, joining their ranks on a three-year contract.
Champions (UK) plc acquired Alan’s business, Warner Music & Entertainments (UK), in June 2014, after talks between himself and Champions CEO John Hayes, both of whom have enjoyed a friendship spanning several decades. Alan’s decades of experience within the industry, combined with Warner Music & Entertainments (UK)’s reach, has contributed enormously to Champions (UK) plc’s resounding success within the field of music and entertainment. In April 2015, Champions Music & Entertainment took several huge strides in the music industry. Five years on from the ground-breaking signing of Andy Abraham, the brand agency went on to sign fellow X Factor superstar Sam Bailey, one of the show’s most successful winners with a Christmas No. 1, Skyscraper, and a BPI Gold-winning debut album, The Power of Love.
SOLO ARTISTS | BANDS | ENTERTAINERS | DANCE TROUPES | TRIBUTE ACTS | COMEDIANS | MAGICIANS 124
Champs M&E DPS AW2015.indd 124
30/10/2015 11:10
member of
EA SB
European Association of Speakers Bureaux
ANDY ABRAHAM
SAM BAILEY Just two months later, another major coup was realised with the signing of Blue, one of the best-loved British boybands of all time. Boasting three No. 1 singles, a total of 11 Top Ten hits and three consecutive No. 1 albums, they have enjoyed unparalleled success in Great Britain, Europe and worldwide. In addition to an illustrious repertoire of acts and strong business foundations, Champions Music & Entertainment also has the online presence to match its reach within the industry. The new website plays host to an incredible database of over a thousand acts, ranging from local entertainers to superstar headliners from every possible genre and disposition. This not only provides end users with the most comprehensive choice of acts and performers for their event, but also emphasises how thorough and all-encompassing Champions (UK) plc are in their approach.
Matthew Hayes, Managing Director of Champions (UK) plc, is excited about the prospect of this new venture, but also understands the importance of being a face in the music industry clients can trust: “Our establishment in the music industry as Champions Music & Entertainment heralds a new era for the Champions (UK) plc. The music industry is a thriving and incredibly diverse industry that is an enjoyable challenge to work in. Our experience within the industry has paid dividends and has allowed us to provide a message to high profile acts and clients that we are an agency that you can count on to provide first class service. Champions Music & Entertainment complements Champions (UK) plc’s other departments perfectly and I’m confident in our staff’s ability to offer the music acts of the UK and further afield an alternative to conventional individual marketing and both online and offline act directories.”
Excellent customer service is at the very heart of Champions Music & Entertainment. They ensure all clients are provided with a professional, personal and friendly service to help them find the perfect act they are looking for, and work closely with every client, from first enquiry to delivery, ensuring that they provide the best experience possible.
To visit Champions Music & Entertainment’s new website, check out www.musicandbands.co.uk For more information on booking a music act or entertainer with Champions Music & Entertainment, simply contact Alan Warner FEAA today by calling 08453 31 30 31 or by email at awarner@championsukplc.com
www.musicandbands.co.uk 125
Champs M&E DPS AW2015.indd 125
30/10/2015 11:10
BUSINESS AND FINANCE
INAUGURAL LEICESTER BUSINESS FESTIVAL PROVES A MAJOR BOOST TO LEICESTERSHIRE
Leicester Business Festival_AspiAW15.indd 126
30/10/2015 11:12
October and November 2015 proved to be landmark months for Leicestershire’s business community. As anyone familiar within the county knows, the area is one of the most culturally diverse and business friendly environments in the UK. And thanks to the first ever Leicester Business Festival, the nation has finally opened its eyes to the economic potential of this great region. The LBF, a two-week showcase of Leicestershire’s prosperous and varied business industry, kicked off on Monday 26th October with an exclusive launch at the city’s postmodern Curve theatre, with proceedings getting straight into full swing with the Leicester Mercury Business Summit at the Phoenix Arts Centre later in the day. Some of the region’s most prominent figures from the world of business were in attendance, engaging in networking opportunities with fellow entrepreneurs. In addition, a number of expert keynote speakers drew on their many years of industry experience to give informative speeches onstage. Arguably one of the most renowned of these was Gareth Davis, Chairman of William Hill and Wolseley plc. Officially one of the most successful active CEOs in the world, he spent 35 years at Imperial Tobacco in several roles, including Director of Finance and Executive Director, and helped transform the company into one of the most efficient in the world. Being exposed to high quality speakers such as the aforementioned Mr Davis, record-breaking explorer Bonita Norris and Sunday Times Economic Editor David Smith ensured that those in attendance acquired a multitude of tried and tested business skills and tips.
The first day of the LBF also saw a number of other events take place alongside the Business Summit, including the Breakthrough Moments Festival Launch, TheBestOfLeicester Marketing Workshop & Wine Tasting Network Evening, and the Cross-Border Partnership Local Business Supply Chain Initiative, ensuring that there was something for everybody. Despite what appeared to be a high-intensity start to the Festival, it really was just the tip of the iceberg – Tuesday 27th October saw a gargantuan grand total of thirteen events take place, catering for a wide array of industries from food and drink to culture and creativity. Every field of business was thoroughly catered for over the eleven days of the Festival, as industry experts held events on topics including apprenticeships, social media, technology, energy, women in business, logistics, and even contemporary arts and comedy, and on Friday 6th November, the final day, delegates were treated to cocktails and canapes to finish the Festival off with a flourish. The LBF was brought to life by the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership (LLEP), a business-led partnership between the public and private sector looking to drive economic growth across the region, and leading brand agency Champions (UK) plc. A showcase of Leicestershire’s economic prospects has been long overdue as the region boasts 33,000 businesses and 435,000 employees which provide a net worth of £19.4bn a year. With a population of almost one million spread across Leicester, densely-populated towns such as Coalville and Loughborough, and a charismatic rural hinterland, excellent transport links make Leicestershire one of the best integrated areas in the country, a valuable benefit when it comes to economic development. In addition, the three world class universities based in the region produce tens of thousands of skilled graduates annually, delivering cutting-edge innovation in a wide array of industries, crucial to the development of not only the county, but the entire nation and potentially the world. Sponsored by the University of Leicester, the Festival attracted so much interest that the deadline for hosting events had to be extended, with many organisations having to be put on waiting lists, while some of the region’s most high profile companies, including Aon, Santander, AXA PPP, PMGC, Qdos and Mattioli Woods, threw their weight behind the Festival as official supporters. In addition, the LBF steering group chose Leicestershire’s leading branding and events agency, Champions (UK) plc, to co-ordinate and promote the Festival, while both the Leicester Mercury and Smooth Radio were quick to lend their support as Media Partners. The Festival has proven a huge success that has brought long-overdue focus for the Leicestershire business community, but with the dust settling on the occasion, it is time to look ahead to next year’s Festival and look to make the event bigger and better than ever.
For more information on how you or your company can get involved with the Leicester Business Festival 2016 call Ashleigh Kerr at Champions (UK) plc on 08453 31 30 31 or email akerr@championsukplc.com
127
Leicester Business Festival_AspiAW15.indd 127
30/10/2015 11:13
BUSINESS AND FINANCE
C h a r l e s M i t c h e l l Wi n e s a n d S p i ra l C e l l a r s J o i n Fo r c e s Independent fine wine merchants Charles Mitchell Wines are please to announce their partnership with the UK’s leading wine cellar company Spiral Cellars
Lets Introduce Ourselves... Spiral Cellars is the specialist creator of unique underground wine cellars for the home, with more than 30 years experience and a history of installing more than 3,000 cellars in the UK.
For any more information on SPIRAL CELLARS or to arrange a personal wine tasting contact Richard Lambourne 128
Tel: 0161 775 1626 | Email: richard@cmwines.com | Web: www.cmwines.com
Charles Mitchells Wine v2 new.indd 128
03/11/2015 12:05
The IXL Events Centre is a stunning state-of-the-art entertainment and function venue just outside Leamington Spa, Warwickshire. Based at the Midlands’ premier polo club, the IXL Events Centre is a fantastically unique venue. With fireworks and sparkle, winter explodes at Dallas Burston Polo Club with the sensational Christmas Galas and the smash-hit Magic of Motown Reach Out Tour. There’s plenty of polo and equestrian activities on the arena, whilst in March, we invite you to take a trip back to the summer of ’63 with A Night of Dirty Dancing.
Christmas at Dallas Burston Polo Club Be greeted with a welcome drink by carol singers around a flaming brazier and step into our winter wonderland for this year’s Christmas Galas on 4th and 5th December. Watch award-winning Komodo Fireworks light up the sky with their spectacular musical fireworks display, specially designed for DBPC. Winners of the British Fireworks Championships in 2011 and 2012, this is not just another firework display. Take your seat for our sumptuous three course Christmas feast, served by Prestige catering. Expect a turkey cooked to perfection with all the trimmings and lashings of gravy, finished up with a delectable Christmas pudding – watch out for the lucky sixpence! Live entertainment throughout the evening and six piece band Synergy will keep you dancing into the night.
Magic of Motown A week later, Britain’s biggest smash-hit spectacular Magic of Motown arrives at DBPC, featuring the music of The Four Tops, Supremes, Temptations, Jackson 5, Isley Brothers, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, Lionel Richie and many more. Now in its tenth year, this sensational tour plays to standing ovation night after night, oozing the style, sophistication and musical brilliance of these musical legends. Five-star performances revive more than 36 back-to-back massive, classic hits with all the dazzling dance moves, glittering costume changes and superb musicianship of the original artistes. The Magic of Motown authentically recreates the harmonies, slick moves and stylish looks that were the making of this golden era. Range of ticket options available, contact the Club for more information.
Looking forward… New events at the venue include outdoor cinema through the summer months, as well as both tribute and original music performances and theatre.
Be the first to hear about new events by signing up to our mailing list. Email:
IXL centre.indd 129
enquiries@ixlevents.com or call 01926 811 111
129
03/11/2015 12:03
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 savour. With such wonderful networking opportunities, members of the Champions Club can be the first to hear about and react to industry developments and are able to build the strongest business relationships. Now approaching the end of its third year, the 2015 Champions Club plays host to prominent businesses and individuals from a wide range of commercial sectors, from hospitality, jewellery and finance to branding and technology. Premium Concert Hospitality experts Amplify have over twenty years’ experience of making shows and concerts even more memorable for their clients. Charles Mitchell Wines have pursued excellence in hand-crafted wines since 1981, importing from dedicated producers all over the world. Johnsons Jewellers have enjoyed over 115 years of trading, offering the finest jewellery and timepieces from their exquisite Nuneaton showroom. Nestled in the heart of Warwickshire, Nailcote Hall is one of the West Midlands’ finest retreats. It features a wonderful Par 3 golf course alongside a great restaurant and spa facilities. St. James’s Place Wealth Management build trusted relationships with clients to enhance their financial future with investment schemes, retirement plans and tax mitigation.
1
Champions Club review 2015 V3.indd 1
Inspirational Magazine is the West Midlands’ leading luxury lifestyle publication, offering a definitive
guide to the best quality goods and services available in the region. Champions (UK) plc are a brand agency dedicated to delivering the most creative brand management solutions in the marketplace. With its five in-house departments, Champions (UK) plc provide everything a business needs to maximise its return on investment, from creative conceptualisation right through to more than 1800 diverse and thrilling celebrity acts to add a little stardust to events. One of Champions (UK) plc’s most exciting roles comes in organising the Champions Club. They arranged five events for this calendar year, creating a great environment for networking and helping to knit the business community together more tightly. The year’s first event took place in March with a Charles Mitchell Wines Master Class at Grosvenor Casino. With over 60 years of combined knowledge, Charles Mitchell Wines are experts in exquisite hand-crafted wine for discerning wine lovers. Guests had the opportunity to taste Chares Mitchell wines’ fantastic selection of fine wines as well as receiving advice and guidance on matters such as wine cellar investments, glassware and storage cabinets. In May, Champions Club and Amplify took to the Genting Arena for an unforgettable evening of music and fine dining with a sensational performance from Take That. Guests were treated to a champagne reception and a four course fine dining experience from the Gastro Grill in the stylish
03/11/2015 12:07
2015
REVIEW restaurant. Following a luxurious dinner, guests were shown to their VIP seats to watch the show, enjoying a fantastic evening with wonderful entertainment.
The Champions Club Celebrity Golf Day took place on the 3rd June and saw a variety of celebrities enjoy an amazing day of golf and entertainment at one of the best par 3 courses in the world, Warwickshire based, Nailcote Hall. Some of the star names that took part in the day included Asheswinning cricketer Matthew Hoggard MBE, rugby World Cup winner Neil Back MBE and Olympic legend Derek Redmond. Guests enjoyed lunch overlooking the immaculate Cromwell Course. After a great day of activities, guests rounded off their day with a lavish 3-course meal and entertaining evening. Snooker legend Willie Thorne hosted the evening, which included a number of songs performed by Stephanie Hayward, 14-year-old opera singer Faith Tucker and entertainment from Martin Daniels.
The penultimate event of the Champions Club year was hosted at Johnson Jewellers in September. Guests relished the opportunity to tour the shop and the specialised rooms as well as browse the quality range of jewellery and watches available from some of the world’s finest brands including Rolex, Omega, Breiling and Tag Heuer. The evening was the perfect place for guests to meet in style and comfort, with champagne and canapés and first-class entertainment provided by Georgia Holland. The 2015 Champions Club curtain was drawn in style this November as members attended the Champions Club End of Year Ball at The Belfry Hotel. Enjoying an evening of fine wines, gourmet food and the excellent company of other Champions Club members, guests delighted in the beautiful countryside surrounding the newly refurbished Belfry resort. Entertainment was provided by one of the UK’s favourite party bands playing inimitable funky salsa that got all guests heading for the
dancefloor. What a way to celebrate a fantastic year! The year’s final chance for Club members to network and discuss business, the evening was another resounding success and a celebration of the unique opportunities that come with being part of the Champions Club. Aside from the many chances it gives its members to network and build strong relationships, the Champions Club is the perfect platform to invite your own guests to tailor-made events, organised exclusively by Champions (UK) plc. Experts at putting on a show, Champions (UK) plc has over ten years of delivering Britain’s finest events and hospitality under its belt. Joining the Champions Club will allow you to benefit from their expertise while enabling you to forge strong West Midlands business relationships to help secure your ongoing commercial success.
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 Director Sophia Hayes by email: shayes@championsukplc.com or by telephone: 08453 31 30 31.
130
Champions Club review 2015 V3.indd 130
03/11/2015 12:07
Dan Looney
Janine Edwards
Exclusive Client Lunch Thursday 15th October 2015
Ken and Carole Sutton with Simon Fleet
Clients and potential clients alike attended a day at one of the Midlands’ major jewellers, hosted by Janine Edwards, Principal Partner of St. James’s Place Wealth Management. The event was set in the glamorous jewellers and clients arrived to see the smart new retail store and then moved upstairs to the purpose built presentation room for some interesting insights from their industry experts.
Dan Looney
Dan Looney, Investment Consultant at St. James’s Place, talked about future new Tax Rules and Opportunities, Markets and the Economy in general. Guests were then given a tour of the new premises by the owner of the store, before moving back upstairs to the beautiful restaurant area, where they had a fine lunch, provided by Finesse Collection, and then had a chance to mix and chat with fellow Investors. If you would like to attend Janine’s next client lunch, or would like any further information, please contact her on 01676 530606.
Paul Schorb and Stuart Zarb
Janine Edwards
St Jamess Social Inspi new.indd 141
Janine Edwards
Janine Edwards and Ken Taylor
Wilf Leek and Janine Edwards
30/10/2015 17:00
Joel Mulloy, Group Director with Sue Pimm and Sara Carr
Ready to celebrate a half century of Abel
Leicester Tigers Ground ready to welcome guests
50th Anniversary Evening Saturday 22nd August 2015 Joel Mulloy
On the evening of August 22nd 2015, Abel were proud to celebrate the firm’s 50th anniversary at the Leicester Tigers Rugby stadium.
Duncan Charles, Sue Pimm and Sara Carr
Abel are market leaders in home and workplace security. With 13 branches spanning from Scotland to the south of England, the firm’s reach and ever-growing customer base is testament to the company’s longevity and consistency over the years. Celebrating with staff, key suppliers and a host of valued customers, Abel’s evening also welcomed the firm’s Chairwoman, Mrs Marlene Eyre, as well as Directors Joel and Robin Mulloy and Pat Allen.
Pat Allen, Director
Guests were treated to the phenomenal magician, Will Gray, who performed both at the reception and in the dining hall, stunning diners with some jaw dropping table magic.
Joel Mulloy and Willie Thorne
In addition, Snooker’s very own ‘Mr Maximum’ and event host extraordinaire, Willie Thorne, was in attendance as event MC, ensuring the event ran perfectly to schedule before inviting staff to the stage to collect their awards. Leicester Tigers star player Manu Tuilagi also attended the evening. Abel currently sponsor Manu during the 2015/2016 season, giving the firm fantastic exposure in one of Leicester’s most famed sporting areas. The evening was a wonderful appreciation of what Abel has achieved and another example of thriving business in the East Midlands. Joel Mulloy, Lee Tudor and Willie Thorne
Each guest received an Abel van as a memento of the night
Able Alarms VERSION 3.indd 133
The evening in full swing
Joel Mulloy and Company Chairwoman Marlene Eyre
Champagne glasses awaiting Champagne
03/11/2015 12:10
Ken and Julie Crouch
Greenwich Knight
Jason Yeomans from Isaac
In association with
Rainbows Celebrity Charity Ball
Rainbows
Chris and Katrina Greenwell
The Dorchester, Park Lane, London Friday 29th May 2015 Hosted by MasterChef judge Gregg Wallace, the Rainbows Celebrity Charity Ball was an incredible, black tie occasion held in one of Britain’s most iconic locations, the Ballroom of The Dorchester in London’s Park Lane. Organised by Champions (UK) plc, this was a real star-studded affair with the likes of Sam Bailey, William Roache MBE, Vanessa Feltz, Peter Shilton OBE and the boys from Blue in attendance. With the help of a number of generous donors to the charity auctions, guests were able raise a considerable sum of money for Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People. Chris Darlington from Mazars
The Loughborough-based charity carries out vital work in support of youngsters with life-threatening and life-limiting conditions and their families, so the funds raised were essential to their ongoing activities.
David Ford and Melanie Ford
Entertainment on the night was provided by Strictly Come Dancing dancers Janette and Aljaz, Todd Miller and The Joe Loss Orchestra. This was a truly wonderful occasion and a wonderful opportunity to raise funds for one of Leicestershire’s worthiest causes.
THE FROZEN FOOD SPECIALISTS
National & International Retail, Renovation & Maintenance
Concept Development Equipment Manufacture Store Fit Out Main Contractor
Project Management Reactive & Planned Maintenance Office Refurbishment Dilapidations
M2K Services
Unit 5 Sketchley Meadows, Sketchley Meadows Industrial Estate, Hinckley Leicestershire LE10 3EN T: 01455 238600 F: 01455 238123
www.m2kservices.co.uk
Craig Philips and Chloe Bass
Dorchester Rainbows Charity Ball.indd 134
Derek Redmond, Peter Shilton OBE and Steph Haywood
03/11/2015 12:12
Lee Ryan and Sam Bailey
Andy Abraham, Simon Webbe, Gregg Wallace and Graham Bell
Dean Andrews and Helen Bowan-Green
Simon Webb and Gregg Wallace
Aljaz and Janette
Ben Ofeudu and Vanessa Feltz
Janine Edwards and Barry Baxter
Paul Adisson and the M2K table
Dorchester Rainbows Charity Ball.indd 135
Pat Sharp and Duncan James
Tara Dinan and Tara Denmark
Ken Crouch and the Crouch Logistics table
03/11/2015 12:12
Golf Day Wednesday 3rd June 2015 The Champions Club Celebrity Golf Day took place on the 3rd June and saw a variety of celebrities enjoy an amazing day of golf and entertainment hosted at one of the best par 3 courses in the world, Nailcote Hall. Some of the star names that took part include Ashes-winning cricketer Matthew Hoggard MBE, rugby World Cup winner Neil Back MBE and Olympic legend Derek Redmond. The day began at 11.00am, where guests enjoyed lunch overlooking the immaculate Cromwell Course. The sunshine further glorified the course and champagne flowed throughout the day courtesy of specialist fine wine specialist Charles Mitchell Wines. At 12.00pm a symbolic gunshot commenced the days play. Guests were split into 20 teams split into two segments. Segment 1 enjoyed 18 holes on the scenic course while segment 2 began the Clay Pigeon shoot. After refreshments, the teams swapped over to take part in the opposite activities. After a great day of activities guests rounded off their day with a lavish 3-course meal and an entertaining evening. Snooker legend Willie Thorne hosted the evening, which included a number of songs performed by Stephanie Hayward, 14-yearold opera singer Faith Tucker and entertainment from Martin Daniels. Guests also showed their continuous support for Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People through a number of fundraising games that took place throughout the day and night, resulting in a substantial amount to facilitate Rainbows’ cause. The Champions Club, run by specialist brand agency Champions (UK) plc, regularly organises spectacular events for its members; St James’s Place, Johnsons Jewellers and Inspirational Magazine, PMGC Technology Group, The Belfry, Audley Retirement Village and Amplify.
CC Golf day Social.indd 136
30/10/2015 16:57
Charles Mitchell Wines
First class entertainer Georgia Holland
Guests enjoying a glass of Champagne
A night at Rachel Harvey and Lauren Crow
Deborah Wyatt from Absolute HR and guests
Thursday 3rd September 2015 Johnsons Jewellers, the finest jewellers in the West Midlands, opened their premises exclusively to members of the Champions Club, giving guests an exclusive opportunity to tour the shop and the specialised rooms. Attendees were also able to browse the quality range of jewellery and watches available from some of the world’s finest brands including Rolex, Omega, Breitling and Tag Heuer.
Guests admiring the jewellery
Keeping in with the luxurious and elegant theme, guests were served the finest champagne and canapés, and enjoyed firstclass entertainment courtesy of jazz singer Georgia Holland, whose smooth and sultry voice is at once characteristically vintage and totally original.
Canapés which guests were treated to
Johnsons Jewellers, established in 1897 by Harold Johnson, have long prided themselves on their knowledge specialist advice and quality of the shop, and thanks to this exclusive evening, hospitality can be added to their repertoire of excellence.
Mr and Mrs Campbell
Tony Billingham
A huge congratulations to Zoe Keens and Jonathan Wilbourne
Libby Johnson talking about Johnsons Jewellers
A Night At Johnson Jewellers.indd 137
30/10/2015 17:00
David Nelson, Barry Lane, Eric Herd and Tony Jacklin CBE
Amy Boulden
William Roache MBE and Dominic Holland
BRITISH PAR 3 CHAMPIONSHIP Bentley Leicester
Tuesday 11th – Friday 14th August 2015
Derek Redmond
The 82nd annual edition of the Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship was another four days of golfing excellence and wonderful entertainment held at the stunning Nailcote Hall in Warwickshire. Hosted once again by Tony Jacklin CBE, the two-time Major winner welcomed top calibre golfers including Paul Lawrie OBE to one of the world’s premier Par 3 courses. The Championship regularly attracts a host of stars and this year was no different with the likes of Peter Schmeichel MBE, Damon Hill OBE, Jasper Carrott OBE, William Roache MBE, Keith Duffy and Brian McFadden showing off their golfing skills. Peter Schmeichel MBE and Dean Saunders
Champions (UK) plc organised the event and Farmfoods returned as the headline sponsor ensuring that there was an impressive £100,000 prize fund on offer to attract some of the biggest names in world golf.
Brian McFadden and Amy Boulden
Away from the greens, the bustling tented village provided a chance for visitors to enjoy a drink, browse the stalls from leading retailers, practise their golf swing or even relax with a massage. Over the four days of the championship there were three star-studded Gala Balls which provided first-class entertainment and a valuable opportunity to raise money for Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People.
Jack Drury, Tony Jacklin CBE and Norma C Herd
The event is televised on Sky Sports and Challenge TV and covered across the media in titles including The Daily Telegraph, Golf Monthly and the Birmingham Post.
Damon Hill OBE
WEALTH MANAGEMENT & EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
CATCH
INSPIRATIONAL magazine
Keith Duffy and Mark Murphy
BP3 dble V2.indd 138
Lee Slattery
30/10/2015 17:02
Dwight Yorke
2015 Farmfoods British Par 3 Championship winner
Paul Lawrie OBE
Peter Shilton OBE
Barry Lane
Jonny Bairstow
Charley Hull on the 9th in front of record crowds
Guy Salmon Coventry Land Rover hole in one prize
Charley Hull
BP3 dble V2.indd 139
Jamie Foreman, Julie Foreman and Gregg Wallace
Rick Cressman and Sol Campbell
30/10/2015 17:02
Nigel Mansell CBE, Harun Raza, Award sponsor Cllr Ian Ward from Birmingham City Council and Craig Phillips
Sport Birmingham award sponsor
Karen Carney winner of Professional Sportswoman of the year
Trinity Mirror midlands group
Jack and Sophia Hayes
HEADLINE SPONSOR
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
Jonathon Broom-Edwards, Junior Sportsperson Winner, Ryan Martin, Adam Mainwood representative from Decathlon Wednesbury
Thursday 17th September 2015
Nigel Mansell CBE with the stand-up bingo prize winners
Birmingham celebrated the outstanding achievements of the region’s best sporting talent across the realms of both professional and amateur sport at the Birmingham Sports Awards 2015. The awards ceremony was hosted at Aston Villa Football Club and commended individuals, men, women, coaches and clubs for their successes throughout the year. Thirteen different award categories were sponsored by a range of local businesses and institutions including the headline sponsor, the Game Angling Consultancy.
Mattioli Woods plc
The event, organised by Midlands based brand agency Champions (UK) plc, was a great chance to raise money and awareness for the Stilyan Petrov Foundation.
Aston Villa Football Club ready to welcome guests
Guests were welcomed by a Champagne reception to begin the evening, followed by a delicious three course meal. The ceremony was hosted by sports broadcaster Gary Newbon and ITV’s favourite weather girl Emma Jesson. The evening’s prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award was won by motor racing legend Nigel Mansell CBE who received a standing ovation after a heartfelt speech. For more details on how you can get involved, contact Ashleigh Kerr of Champions (UK) plc at akerr@ championsukplc.com or call her on 08453 31 30 31 Nigel Mansell CBE winner of Lifetime Achievement Award
BSA 2015 v3.indd 140
Tim Charlesworth, Amy Derrick, Sophia Hayes, George Herd, Deborah Standley, William Jones, Matthew Hayes and Ameila Neate
03/11/2015 12:23
2015 Winners JUNIOR SPORTSPERSON OF THE YEAR WEDNESBURY
RYAN MARTIN
JUNIOR TEAM OF THE YEAR
Emma Jesson and Gary Newbon who were hosts for the evening
CITY OF BIRMINGHAM SWIMMING CLUB
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR RAZA
COMMUNITY AWARD B-ROW
CLUB OF THE YEAR ACTIV8 TRAMPOLINING CLUB
Headline Sponsor Captain Tony Spacey from Game Angling Consultancy with B-row winner, Bobby Thomson and Jon-Allen Butterworth
MANAGER/COACH OF THE YEAR LEE WOOLLS
AMATEUR SPORTSWOMAN OF THE YEAR TULLY KEARNEY
AMATEUR SPORTSMAN OF THE YEAR JOE FRASER
TEAM OF THE YEAR
Charlie Aitken, Professional Young Sportsperson of the year Winner, Beth Merrick, Rushian Hepburn- Murphy, and Major Richard Carney MBE
BIRMINGHAM LIONS WOMEN’S AMERICAN FOOTBALL TEAM
PROFESSIONAL YOUNG SPORTSPERSON OF THE YEAR BETH MERRICK
PROFESSIONAL YOUNG SPORTSWOMAN OF THE YEAR KAREN CARNEY
Karen Carney, Tully Kearney’s mother and brother collected the Amateur Sportswoman of the Year on behalf of Tully Kearney, Sophia Hayes and Richard Blaze
PROFESSIONAL YOUNG SPORTSMAN OF THE YEAR DEMARAI GRAY
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT NIGEL MANSELL CBE
Birmingham City Council with Craig Phillips
BSA 2015 v3.indd 141
03/11/2015 12:23
Guests enjoying champagne Reception
Managing Director - Trinity Mirror Midlands, Simon Edgley
Tim Munton, Sponsor- Joy May from Absolute HR Solutions, Winner Charlotte Moore, Claus Bech Jorgensen
John Hayes and guests of Champions (UK) plc
Andy Robertson Band entertaining the crowd
Thursday 8th October
Host - Emma Jesson
Coventry and Warwickshire came together at the Dallas Burston Polo Club, IXL Events Centre to celebrate the outstanding achievements of the region’s best sporting talent, across the realms of both professional and amateur sport, at the Coventry and Warwickshire Sports Awards 2015.
Host - Graham Bell
Thirteen different award categories including Lifetime Achievement Award, Junior Sports Person of the Year and Community Award were sponsored by a range of local businesses and institutions. Sky Blues legend Steve Ogrizovic was the recipient of the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award.
Ready to welcome guests
The event, organised by Midlands based brand agency Champions (UK) Plc, was also a great chance to raise money and awareness for Zoes Place Baby Hospice and The Grace Research Fund.
Sandy Drummond, Rebecca Stonehouse, Rachel Roark from Champions (UK) plc
Guests were welcomed by a champagne reception to begin the evening, followed by a delicious three course meal. The ceremony was hosted by Emma Jesson and Graham Bell, guiding the guests through an exciting evening of awards and entertainment. The Coventry and Warwickshire Sports Awards helped wrap up a truly magnificent year of British sporting accomplishments across the region. The annual event aims to encourage continued growth of the regions sporting excellence as well as creating a sporting legacy in Coventry.
Guests enjoying a game of stand up bingo
Coventry Sports Awards 2015 new.indd 142
For more details on how you can get involved, contact Ashleigh Kerr of Champions (UK) plc at akerr@ championsukplc.com or call her on 08453 31 30 31
Table with Craig Phillips
30/10/2015 16:57
2015 Winners JUNIOR SPORTSPERSON OF THE YEAR CHARLOTTE MOORE
U19/SCHOOL TEAM OF THE YEAR
Libby Johnson from Johnsons Jewellers with Stand up bingo Prize winner Fred Rumsey
COUNDON COURT GIRLS U13S
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR DENNIS YOUNG
COMMUNITY AWARD SKY BLUES IN THE COMMUNITY
CLUB OF THE YEAR WASPS
Sponsor - Major Richard Carney MBE - IXL Events Centre, Winner Steve Ogrizovic, David Moorcroft OBE
MANAGER/COACH OF THE YEAR CHUCK WEBER
AMATEUR SPORTSWOMAN OF THE YEAR LAUREN ROWLES
AMATEUR SPORTSMAN OF THE YEAR BEN ROWLINGS
TEAM OF THE YEAR
Sponsor - Matthew Hayes - Champions UK Plc, Winner - James Maddison, Danielle Brown MBE
COVENTRY BLAZE
PROFESSIONAL YOUNG SPORTSPERSON OF THE YEAR JAMES MADDISON
PROFESSIONAL YOUNG SPORTSWOMAN OF THE YEAR SARAH-JANE PERRY
PROFESSIONAL YOUNG SPORTSMAN OF THE YEAR
Katharine Merry, Winner - Sarah-Jane Perry parents, sponsor-Tracey Jackson from Hygiene Solutions
ANDY SULLIVAN
LIFE TIME ACHIEVEMENT STEVE OGRIZOVIC
Steve Ogrizovic, Winner Sky Blues in the Community, Sponsor - Amy Derrick -Inspirational Magzine, Craig Phillips
Coventry Sports Awards 2015 new.indd 143
30/10/2015 16:57
Alfonso Yufera
Audrey Parker and Blake Parker
Francisco Conejero
Lighting Specialists Davina Nandhra, Gurjit Nandhra and Simran Bhamara
Sophia Hayes and Francisco Conejero
Launch Lladro Thursday 2nd July In this glistening heat, Inspirational Magazine was invited to the exclusive luxury launch of Lladro, on the 2nd July, to discover the all new fantastic collection on offer from lighting Solutions Company i-Lite.
Francisco Conejero, Scott Golbourne, Keshia Golbourne and Ami
Having one of the largest lighting showrooms in England, i-Lite invited guests to embark on a lavish night of canapĂŠs, Cava and a demonstration of their new collection from their situated in Soho Hill, Birmingham base.
Andy Bull, Gurjit Nandhra and Arnaud Gouhizoun
With over 35 years in the luxury and commercial lighting industry, i-Lite offers exclusive and detailed bespoke lighting solutions including architectural and outdoor lighting as well as domestic lighting. For more information about i-Lite and the products they can provide for your residential or commercial facilities, visit www.ilite.co.uk or call them directly +44 (0) 121 554 7715.
Yara Gremoli and Michele Lucchetta
Veena Bhambra (i-Lite) and Francisco Conejero
i-lite social.indd 144
Veena Bhambra
Farshad Saffarian (Luxury Design Ltd) and Ami Chatha
Sam Bayliss, Heather Egginton (Colmore Tang) and Francisco Conejero
30/10/2015 16:57
Ready to seat the guests
Amy Martin, Joy May, Rhiain Foster and Tracey Jackson
Stuart Potter, Louise Fisher and Lorna Eden
Take That Live at Genting Arena Tuesday 12th May 2015 Janine Edwards, Michelle Lord, Lynsey McIntosh, Richard Lambourne and Debs Everard
The Champions Club invited its members to a luxurious evening of fine dining with music provided by the greatest boyband in the world.
Julie Hirons, Len Rankin, Shannon O’Brien and Danielle Stallard
In May, Birmingham’s Genting Arena played host to Take That, with the trio of Mark Owen, Gary Barlow and Howard Donald arriving in town as part of their latest UK tour. In conjunction with amplify, guests were treated to a champagne reception and a luxurious four-course meal from the venue’s stylish restaurant, before being shown to their seats in the VIP area. Sandy Edwards, Sarah Edwards, Hazel Thorpe, Sharon Mitchell, Rick & Sue Cressman and John & Janice Dowen
With private access to a complimentary bar throughout the evening, guests were then entertained by Take That as they played their greatest hits, including Said It All, Pray and Rule the World, as well as more recent releases.
Ellen Nightingale, Ben Trott, Lauren Crow and Kirsten Dyson
The benchmark for Champions Club is to provide the very best hospitality, the greatest company and the most wonderful entertainment, and judging by the delight on the guests’ faces, it was certainly mission accomplished.
Libby Johnson, Lisa Ashby, Catherine Stout and Leanne Button
Amy Martin, Joy May,Rhiain Foster, Sandra Wallace, Imogen Noon and Tracey Daniels
Richard Vickery, Katie Niland, Jacqui Kavanagh and Leigh Cowlishaw
Richard Freeman, Melanie Checkley, Clare Swaine and Susan Buckley
TakeThat Champions Club.indd 145
03/11/2015 12:18
Welcome to Bovey Castle
The Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines.
Guests enjoying the sunshine.
Eden Hotel Collection Relaunch Bovey Castle Thursday 18th June 2015 June 18th 2015 marked the Eden Hotel Collection’s unveiling of their £2 million transformation of Bovey Castle. The evening was held to celebrate the completion the first phase of five, on the path to transforming the iconic hotel to its full former glory.
Champagne served on the terrace.
The Eden Hotel Collection, AA Small Hotel Group of the Year 2014 / 2015, embarked on the restoration and refurbishment in January, less than six months after acquiring the awardwinning country house estate in Dartmoor National Park.
Canapes from The Great Western Restaurant
Speaking about the renovation project, the Eden Hotel Collection’s Managing Director, Mark Chambers, says: “Very little money had been spent on the hotel before it was acquired by the Eden Hotel Collection so it looked really tired. Bovey Castle is stunning and needed to be brought back to its former glory but we didn’t want to just redecorate, we wanted to make a statement and take the hotel into an exciting new era.”
Guests enjoying the sunshine.
Weather on their side, the team at Bovey Castle entertained over 100 guests, who gathered on the terrace for Champagne and tastes from the newly refurbished Great Western Restaurant’s menu.
Bovey Castle General Manager Greg Fehler and Eden Hotel Collection’s head office team.
Guests enjoyed the sunshine and overlooked the terrific backdrop of Bovey’s estate and golf course, before watching a magnificent performance by The Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines, from the Commando Training Centre in Lympstone. A wonderful evening was had by all and provided a suiting celebration for what will be one of the most exciting hospitality venues in the South West far into the future. Photography by Will Dolphin
Flags were handed out to wave as the band played.
Sir Peter makes a donation to The C Group Royal Marines Charity.
Eden Collection Social v2.indd 146
The Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines.
Sir Peter Rigby, Marian Cartter and Managing Director Mark Chambers.
Menu tasters from Smith’s Brasserie
30/10/2015 16:55
VERY IMPRESSIVE
Redrow homes have undeniable kerb appeal with distinctive detailed architectural touches that set them apart from the competition. Very Inviting, Very Inspiring, Very Redrow.
AT
Compton Park, Wolverhampton We can help you sell your old house and move to a new Redrow home in 3 easy steps: STEP 1 ~ Find your new Redrow home STEP 2 ~ We help sell your old home STEP 3 ~ Move into your new home
Plus you have no estate agent’s fees to pay.
Visit: redrow.co.uk/compton
Call: 01902 471153
Compton Park, Compton Road West, Wolverhampton WV3 9DX Open Daily, 10am ~ 5.30pm Image typical of Redrow homes.
Redrow DPS.indd 147
30/10/2015 11:19
magazine
INSPIRATIONAL magazine
INSPIRATIONAL
L AW R E N C E in this edition...
EDITION 8
Inspi AW 2015 Cover Edition 8 Jennifer Lawrence.indd 1
JENNIFER LAWRENCE: GIRL ON FIRE STAR WARS: THE FRANCHISE AWAKENS THE MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKERS AGENCY: CHAMPIONS (UK) PLC’S LATEST OFFERING
AUTUMN/WINTER 2015
AUTUMN/WINTER 2015
JENNIFER
30/10/2015 11:58