Cornfield Magazine Issue 77 Sutton Edition

Issue No. 77 Complimentary

Sutton Coldfield Editio

The Phantom

Monthly Hair Care Column From

Jay Birmingham

of the

Opera Rehearsal Shots Released

Midlands

Air Festival returns to Ragley Hall for 2020

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LOOKING FOR A VENUE?

Mind Stretchers

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Welcome

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54

The spectacular Midlands Air Festival will return for its third consecutive year, with a homecoming to its original location at Ragley Hall on 29 – 31 May 2020.

The Phantom of the Opera which comes to Birmingham Hippodrome from 29 July – 12 September 2020.

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SUMMER FEST 2020 announces SHAGGY as Special Guest for Saturday 25th.

Welcome to the Spring Issue.

After what has felt like the longest winter ever, spring is final y here! Our March editions celebrate the changing of the season across fashion and beauty trends and mostly entertainment across the region.

With Mother’s Day fast approaching, we’ve pulled together a Gift Guide featuring our favourite present ideas for the lovely ladies in our lives. Our cover story for The Spring Issue comes courtesy from the spectacular Midlands Air Festival that will return for its third consecutive year, with a homecoming to its original location at Ragley Hall on 29 – 31 May 2020.

We spoke to Michelle, who back in November 2018 put a post out which has changed her life forever. She has created the group ‘Make New Friends’ a facebook group for ladies to communicate, talk and make new friends. We were invited to the much-anticipated reopening for popular Warwick pub The Hatton Arms. It recently reopened its doors with a fresh look and menu to greet visitors old and new.

All of the above plus more can be found in this month’s issue.

Tel: 0121 796 6800 Email: info@cornfieldpublishing.co.u Web: www.cornfieldpublishing.co.uk

Happy reading,

From The Cornfield Team x www.cornfieldpublishing.co.uk

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Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this magazine is accurate, the Cornfield M gazine cannot be held responsible for any errors, omissions or endorse companies, products or services appearing in this magazine. The Cornfield M gazine cannot be held responsible for any breach of copyright arising from any material supplied.

Published monthly by Cornfield Publishing Ltd No part of this publication may be reproduced without the permission from the publisher.

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The Floating Spa Benefits of Floatation By relieving the stresses of gravity, flo ting takes the weight off strained bones, joints and muscles, and increases the efficiency of blood circul tion.

This includes a multitude of physical and mental benefits which can be enjoyed by anyone and everyone.

The benefits of regular flo ting are not only great in number but also backed up by scientific research Not to mention the continued medical research proving the benefits of flo tation for a wide range of medical challenges.

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The Floating Spa 23-24 Hall Street Jewellery Quarter Birmingham B18 6BS info@thefloatingspa.com - ww .thefloatingspa.co 0121 448 7977

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BEAUTY

Monthly Hair Care Column

With Celebrity Hair Stylist

Jay Birmingham As Fashion Week comes to an end, we’re left to mull over the key trends for next season, and I am always keeping an eye on the hair! I always like to take note of the best and most talked about hairstyles and hair trends out of Fashion Week AW20.

This season, London Fashion Week gave us a range of bold statements, from giant wigs on the Matty Bovan catwalk, to Harley Quinn inspired clip-in extensions at Ashley Williams. With a range of shapes and textures of hair across the runways, we also saw minimal styles including low ponytails and deep side-parts at Emilia Wickstead.

Wet look hair is set to be huge and was seen all over the catwalks including the Proenza Schouler show at New York Fashion Week.

The wet look hair trend is easy to create at home and when paired with the right outfit and make-up can look super fierce!

1. Start with clean, freshly-washed hair.

2. Prep hair by working a palm-sized amount of Oribe Volumista Mist throughout the crown of your head.

3. Blow dry hair using a round brush for added volume.

4. Once hair is fully dry, take a heavy amount of Oribe Gel Serum and start working it in sections of your hair at the crown using a widetoothed comb, intentionally leaving comb marks for effect.

5. Continue working the gel down lengths and ends.

6. Once your first layer is done, add another layer of Oribe Volumista Mist throughout your lengths and ends.

7. Continue layering the two products until you’ve reached your desired effect.

8. Spritz some Oribe Shine Light Reflecting Spray throughout the whole look for a glossy effect.

9. If needed, add a few spritzes of hairspray throughout the whole look for added hold and to get rid of any fly ways.

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BEAUTY

Why not try out my wet look step by step at home?

Tag @jaybirminghamhair - I can wait to see your creations. I love this look and is always popular with my celebrity clients including Molly Mae, Maura Higgins and Helen Flanagan.

I can’t wait to try out some new AW20 looks and create some beautiful hair.

Love, Jay x Jay Birmingham Hair Highfield ellness & Beauty, 23A Highfield Rd Birmingham B15 3DP @JayBirminghamHair www.jaybirmingham.co.uk

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Henley Lash House Eyelash Extension Specialists Anna Cornfield owner of Henley Lash House, has been in the beauty industry for 15 years and has perfected her lash treatment technique over the last five years. Specialising in Russian Volume eyelash extensions, Anna is an expert technician in semi-permanent lashes, achieving fantastic results for all clients.

What are Russian Volume lashes?

Designed to give the ‘wow-factor’, Russian Volume lashes are applied to match the natural curvature of the eyelid. Their ultra-fine lightweight design allows technicians to apply multiple synthetic extensions to each natural lash, creating more volume than classic lashes and often lasting longer.

How are they applied?

Anna carefully applies individual extension fibres to a single natural eyelash, building up both volume and length in the process. Depending upon her clients’ desired outcome, Anna can apply two to eight extensions on a single natural lash. The Russian Volume lashes are applied in a ‘fan-like’ shape, giving an eyecatching, impactful look.

Are Russian Volume lashes safe?

It’s important to book a specialist technician for all eyelash extensions. Eyelash extensions can only damage your natural lashes if applied incorrectly. Untrained, amateur technicians may not have the skills and equipment to correctly isolate individual natural lashes and safely apply extensions. When it comes to your beauty and health, always go professional. Anna guarantees all clients are given aftercare advice and receive patch tests before any appointments take place.

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BEAUTY

How to achieve a fresh

Spring Glow

Professional Makeup Artist, Naomi Halliday, shares her tips for creating a healthy Spring makeup look.

We all want fresh, glowing looking skin, especially when the sun makes an appearance and it’s time to ditch the heavy winter makeup. Why not try some of Naomi’s favourite products for a luminous, natural look?!

With a weightless liquid texture, the By Terry Hyaluronic Hydra Foundation, £49.00 (spacenk.com/uk) provides an intense burst of hydration to help plump the skin.

Infused with skin-quenching hyaluronic acid, the innovative formula works to control shine and creates a second-skin effect with auto-adaptive light-glowing pigments while promoting a dewy-fresh, luminous complexion with a youthfully fl wless finish

MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural Pressed Powder in ‘Dark Deep’, £26.50 (maccosmetics.co.uk) is a beautifully pearlized mineral face powder that acts as a perfect bronzer. Not only does it add radiance and warmth to sun-starved skin, but it also contains a 77-Mineral Complex and vitamin E to keep your skin looking and feeling healthy.

Giorgio Armani Fluid Sheer, £40.00 (armanibeauty. co.uk) is a gorgeous, easy to apply highlighter that simply allows you to achieve luminous, glowing skin and comes in an extensive range of colors to match every unique tone.

Apply to the tops of the cheekbones, under the brow bone, on the bridge and tip of the nose and the cupids bow for an ultra-dewy and youthful glow.

NARS ‘The Multiple’ in Orgasm, £30.00 (narscosmetics.co.uk) has been developed with a unique creamy formula, shimmering accents and sheer colour to blend effortlessly on all skin tones.

The mistake-proof cream-to-powder colour is quick and easy to apply, leaving your cheeks with a seductively sheer, natural finish

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Rodial Collagen Boost Lip Laquer in ‘ stripped’, £28.00 (beautybay.com), is the perfect way to cheat full, hydrated and plump lips. The non-stick, creamytextured formula envelopes your pout in a nourishing veil of colour, enriched with a collagen boosting complex. Available in a variety of gorgeous shades, it instantly smooths, hydrates and plumps the lips for an irresistibly high-shine and volumised finish

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Luxurious wedding accessories from Fox & Chave With wedding season just around the corner, Fox & Chave, creators of beautifully unique hand-finished silk ties, scarves and accessories, inspired by the arts, history and nature, have a selection of wedding accessories fit for the whole wedding party, from the groom to the mother of the bride.

Nudestix Magnetic Eye Colour in ‘Gilt’, £25.00 (cultbeauty.co.uk) effortlessly cloaks the eyelids with a glimmer pale gold shimmer, staying put all day.

Eco-packaged in a cute tin with a large mirror housed in the lid, these pencils are perfect for popping in your handbag for fuss-free, glowy golden eyes on the go!

Finish your look by enhancing your eyes with the amazing Sweed Nikki No LashLash set, £22.00 (harrods. com / harveynichols.com / sweedlashes.com). These individual lashes create a soft, defined look and boast va ying lengths. Simply place the longest length on the outer corners of your eyes for an enhanced eye effect. The ultra-lightweight design has no visible band, and the texture of the lash fibres perfect y replicate the natural lash, adding volume and length in the most natural way possible.

Words by Naomi Halliday For makeup booking enquiries info@naomihallidaymakeup.co.uk / 07912 646363 www.naomihallidaymakeup.co.uk @naomihallidaymakeup.co.uk

Prices: Morris Golden Lily Bow Tie: £30.00 Morris Fruit Cuff Links: £30.00 Deco Black & Red Bow Tie: £30.00 Father of the Bride Ovoid Cuff Links: £20.00 Mackintosh Pinks Silk Tie: £35.00 Enamel Ginko Leaf Silk Tie: £35.00 foxandchave.com Cornfield Magazine | 1

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GIFT GUIDE Quirky and unique treats for your mom this Mother’s Day.

Personalised Mothers Day Trinket Box. www.funkyhampers.com - £16.00 | Mothers Day 1KG Belgian Chocolate Smash Cup. www.funkyhampers.com - £24.95 All You Ned Is love Sign. www.smithersofstamford.com - £69 | The Horse Lovers Scarf Lightweight Polyester Twill. www.athomeinthecountry.co.uk - £15.95 In the Garden 100ml Hand Cream. www.dobbies.com - £6.99 | Alpaca Fur Hot Water Bottle. www.annabeljames.co.uk - £99.95 Panama Notebook, Turmeric. www.smythson.com - £89.00 | Mara 3 Drawer Jewellery Box, Fern. www.smythson.com - £1795.00 Gin O’Clock Glass. www.ellajames.co.uk - £14.00 | Pink Coral Reef Cushion. www.postcardshome.co.uk - £60.00 Sophie Allport Hedgerow Berries Botanical Candle. www.sophieallport.com - £25.00

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Johnsons

Jewellers

Established in 1897, this year Johnsons Jewellers will be celebrating 123 years of selling watches and fine jewellery. Originally set up in the Abbey Green area of Nuneaton before moving to its present location shortly after the war, Johnsons has grown over the years.

The business was official y set up by Harold Johnson in 1897, although records suggest that there were watchmakers in the family prior to this time. Today the business is a far cry from the small shop set up in the front room of the Johnson household and has been expanded over time to include 17 watch brands from some of the finest watch houses around the globe, plus a wealth of diamond jewellery.

Johnsons Jewellers still remains firm y in the hands of the Johnson family. Robert and Pam are still actively involved in the business, with Libby and Catherine their daughters, very much part of the business.

With 2 goldsmiths and 3 watchmakers on site, Johnsons are able to carry out all manner of repairs on site without the need to send items away. The workshops are fitted with state of the art equipment, including a laser repair machine which ensures repairs can be taken out swiftly at reasonable costs.

Our senior goldsmith also designs and creates bespoke pieces of jewellery for many clients. If you are set on a certain design which you are just unable to find then our goldsmith can create that special one off piece.

Johnsons Jewellers sells a wide range of jewellery and watches suitable for all age groups and tastes. Silver branded jewellery includes the popular Swarovski, Carat*, Hot Diamonds. With a large selection of diamond rings sourced from all over the world, from classic certific ted single stone diamond rings to beautiful fancy shape cluster rings, the choice is vast.

With a dedicated Rolex boutique to showcase the beautiful Swiss watch collection, the Johnsons Jewellers staff are fully trained to provide exceptional service in a relaxed environment. The selection of watch brands available range from fashion brands such a Tissot, Citizen and Hugo Boss, through to fine Swiss w tch brands Omega, Tudor, Breitling, Longines and TAG Heuer.

H Johnson & Son Ltd. 50/51 Queens Road, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV11 5JX www.johnsonsjewellers.co.uk 02476 347 038

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HEALTH

SUPPORTING YOUR

IMMUNE SYSTEM NATURALLY

With the recent health warnings surrounding COVID-19 it has become more important than ever to have a strong immune system.

Building a strong immune system is your best defence against infections and viruses, and just the smallest changes can make a difference.

1. INCREASE YOUR VITAMIN C Did you know there is more vitamin C in a head of broccoli than there is in a whole orange? Despite their reputation for being loaded with vitamin C, the 69.7 mg that a medium orange provides is actually less than many other common fruits and veggies!

Vitamin C is water soluble which our body excretes when not required. Therefore it’s important to keep ourselves topped up with this immune supporting vitamin on a daily basis.

Good sources of Vitamin C include: Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflowe , bell peppers, tomatoes, citrus fruits, kiwi, butternut squash, spinach and other dark leafy greens.

2. SUPPLEMENT WITH VITAMIN D VITAMIN D (the sunshine vitamin) plays a huge role in your immune system and given that the majority of the UK population are deficient in Vitamin D, it’s a really good idea to add in a supplement between October and March.

Vitamin D is absorbed through the skin from UVB sun rays and just 10-15 minutes exposure in the midday sun is usually enough to give us what we need.

However, over use of sunscreen blocks our absorption, so the chances are we have inadequate levels even in the summer months, this especially applies to children.

Here are 5 of our top tips for supercharging your immune system and boosting your resilience.

Roughly 10% of vitamin D comes from food. There is little or no vitamin D in milk and dairy products by the way… only infant formula milk and margarine have statutory vitamin D supplementation added in the UK. Oily fish egg yolk, liver and wild mushrooms contain a small quantity of vitamin D – but it’s still not an adequate amount, which is why we should consider supplementing Vitamin D in the winter months.

3. MANAGE STRESS Stress hormones inhibit immune cells from doing their job. Highly stressed individuals are more likely to catch colds and flu s more frequently, so if this sounds like you – it’s time to break the cycle.

The first thing you can do is reduce ‘stress on the body’. Ensure you are eating well and choosing nutritious foods over convenient processed foods.

Alongside this, we find that individuals that work on mindfulness, meditation and journaling have the best results. Doing any (or all) of these on a daily basis encourages the body to relax and understand it is in a ‘safe place’.

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HEALTH

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Try this breathing exercise – you can be in the car, the shower, or just sat on a train: 1. breath in from the belly for the count of 4 2. hold for the count of 3…

3. and now breath out for the count of 7.

Repeat this for a minimum of 10 times and notice the difference it makes to how you feel.

4. GET QUALITY SLEEP Sleep is so important for the immune system! When you sleep your body releases important immune cells known as ‘T -Cells’. These immune protecting super stars fight off pathogens such as flu viruses and unwanted bacteria.

Adults need a minimum of 7 hours sleep per night on a regular basis. Less than 7 hours creates a ‘fight or flight’ state which increases stress hormones, which then blocks the effectiveness of these immune cells.

If you struggle to sleep, consider implementing a bedtime routine that includes limited use of electronic devices, not eating too late and making sure your bedroom is a calm quiet environment for you to drift off.

If you’re achieving 7 hours sleep regularly, but still not feeling quite yourself, consider asking your GP to check your Iron, B12 and Thyroid function.

5. LOOK AFTER YOUR GUT 80% of your immune system is housed in the gut so it’s important to keep it topped up with beneficial bacteria.

You can supplement with probiotics, but we like to encourage people to include fermented foods in the diet that are rich in super helpful bacteria.

Fermented foods include: Sauerkraut, Kimchi, Pickles, Miso, Greek Yoghurt, Kombucha and Kefi .

‘Get in touch’ details for Karen & Amy are:

Website: www.meraki-nutrition.co.uk Email: info@meraki-nutrition.co.uk Telephone: 01926 490801

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HEALTH

The Floating Spa So the Floating Spa is a pretty exciting and innovative place to go for a treatment or a massage. See, it’s not like other locations - at least not in the conventional sense.

You’ve got to know what you’re getting into because otherwise it can be quite strange.

So what you have to try and understand is that this is all about flo ting in a tank of water for an hour or so. That might sound weird but it’s very relaxing if you take the time to enjoy it.

But let’s talk about what we liked at first It was a really nice place and the owner was a lovely guy, he made us feel like we were relaxed and at ease. He explained all of the procedure to us when we sat down, which is good because something like this can be quite confusing and possibly even anxiety inducing for people who aren’t used to it.

But obviously the main attraction was sitting in the water. Specifical y, lying in the water. It is quite difficult to describe what it feels like to be sat in the water. You sort of become quite weightless and quite devoid of external stimuli. Because of how the tank is constructed, and the way that you interact with it, you don’t hear any of the outside world. It’s very very relaxing. . Because the water is body temperature, after a while you stop even knowing that you’re suspended in the tank, and it’s very relaxing to just lean back and switch off for another one. It’s completely safe, there is no danger of drowning or anything like that, so you can just space out and enjoy the pleasant sensation of absolute nothingness.

I really cannot recommend this enough. In the modern world, when we are constantly bombarded with obligations and responsibilities and pressures, it can be difficult to relax. It becomes something of an afterthought to look after the body, which is not good. It was so nice to be able to step back and decompress. I had a chance to try and relax, to think about things that made me feel happy, and to just enjoy myself without any obligation or pressure at all. That’s so incredible in the busy world today.

So to perhaps round off all of my experiences, I really enjoyed my time here. It’s definite y something I can recommend to pretty much anybody who is looking for a way to recharge and regenerate. It’s very invigorating to just relax and allow the pressure of the world to just fall way. I really didn’t joy my experience, and it’s one that I would recommend to anyone who wants to get away from it all, or perhaps someone who wants to gift a loved one with a unique way of relaxing. Whatever you choose to do, there’s no doubt that this is worth it.

The Floating Spa, 23-24 Hall Street, Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham B18 6BS info@thefloatingspa.co 0121 448 7977

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FASHION & BEAUTY

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Ladies,

rejoice!

Award-winning menswear and formalwear experts Albie & Lonnie’s have heard your call and are expanding to stock a range of womenswear. From March 19th, the popular clothing retailer in Rugby, Warwickshire, will be devoting some of the rails in its fl gship store to a range of smart casual womenswear from three different brands. Spring fashions from Denim Hunter, Culture and Dranella will be available in a range of sizes from small to extra large, with items from jeans and jumpers to tops and t-shirts as well as skirts, jackets, dresses and blouses.

Albie & Lonnie’s founder Dave Hall said the decision had been made in response to a growing demand for womenswear as well as menswear in the area and from ladies who have been in to the store to help the men in their life shop.

“The feedback we’ve had is that it’s such a great store and a relaxing experience that ladies want to be able to enjoy it for themselves, instead of watching the men in their lives have all the fun,” said Dave. “We’ve always made an effort to listen to our customers and actually it makes perfect sense. When gents come in for a suit or casualwear, their wife or girlfriend, mum or whoever’s with them can treat themselves as well.”

Albie & Lonnie’s will be launching its womenswear range on the evening of Thursday, March 19th with a casual glass of fizz and a chance to browse the new collections, which will then be available just in time for Mother’s Day and onwards.

The expansion to stock womenswear is another milestone for the independent retailer, which moved to a new fl gship store on Albert Street in Rugby last year. Stocking formalwear and menswear in a range of designers and sizes, Albie & Lonnie’s provides everything from outfit for grooms and their groomsmen to prom suits, dinner suits and menswear for all occasions.

The company is one of the largest independent stockists of Marc Darcy and stocks other brands including Fratelli Uniti, Remus Uomo, Blend, Casual Friday, MAC Jeans and Guide London.

Albie & Lonnie’s prides itself on offering a unique experience which has proved a hit with customers across the region and beyond. All of the ranges are hand-picked by Albie & Lonnie’s experienced buying team who spend time getting to know each and every customer and making sure they walk out with something that makes them feel good as well as look good. The store in Rugby has not only proved a great retail space but has also provided the backdrop for several events, including a sell-out gig by top Midlands band Detroit Soul Collective in January and several events in 2019. Albie & Lonnie’s is also formalwear partner to both Coventry City FC and Coventry Rugby Club, kitting out all of their players in their pre and post-match outfits “Adding womenswear to our offering is just another step forward in what has been a brilliant journey over the past year,” added Dave. “We’re looking forward to meeting even more customers and providing ladies with the same great experience that has made us the menswear shop of choice in the area.”

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HEALTH

Celebrating Down syndrome:

An interview with the founder of

The Ups of Downs THE summer of 2004 was a time of joyous anticipation for parents Nicola and John Enoch who, after suffering several miscarriages, were looking forward to welcoming their second child into the world.

But when baby Tom was less than 24 hours old, that world fell apart with the news that he had Down syndrome.

Fast forward 14 years and Nicola’s registered charity The Ups of Downs is not only shifting perceptions of the condition but changing lives.

And it marks a hugely personal journey that’s been inspired every step of the way by Tom himself.

Nicola’s message resonates loud and clear in the name she has given to the charity: ‘The Ups of Downs - Celebrating Down Syndrome.’

And celebration is definite y at its heart. But she’s the first to admit it wasn’t always that way.

“Prior to Tom being born we were of the view that we didn’t want a baby with Down syndrome, being brought up in a society that talks about screening, termination, the ‘risk’ of having ‘one of these babies.’

It felt like babies with Down syndrome were a separate entity almost,” said Nicola.

“We’d paid for extra screening tests so when Tom was a day old and the consultant expressed a concern that he may have Down syndrome, we were absolutely devastated because the bottom line is, we may well have chosen the termination route had we known in advance. We were really upset and struggled enormously.

“I took a long time to come to terms with it because, like everybody else at the time, I had a lot of outdated views around Down syndrome. Our world had fallen apart and we were offered no support to rebuild it.”

Those formative months proved incredibly challenging for the parents who suddenly found themselves thrust into a world they didn’t understand and without the support they so desperately craved.

Nicola, 55, said: “When we brought Tom home I didn’t celebrate which was really sad. When we’d had my daughter Emily three and a half years earlier we were euphoric. Everything was excitement whereas with Tom it was fear.

“I remember the community midwife consoling me as if Tom had died.”

“I remember thinking how people felt sorry for me. People were sending flowers who hadn’t sent flowers for Emily. I remember the community midwife consoling me as if Tom had died. That just perpetuated it all. You think, this must be really bad.”

She added: “It took me months to be able to see beyond Tom having Down syndrome and to fall back in love with him. I was terrified of the future as I had no understanding of it.”

“It took me more than a year to overcome the trauma I experienced. But then I started to wonder why I was so devastated. What was wrong with having Down syndrome? As I questioned many beliefs and attitudes I held, Tom started to enlighten me, teaching us the true meaning of parenting, which is not about a parent’s hopes and aspirations for their child but about love.

“He taught us to redefine success, to give and receive the deepest love, to accept and celebrate being who we are and to value and appreciate life.”

Appreciation turned into determination – a determination to dispel the myths around Down Syndrome and re-educate expectant mums. And so the foundations for a charity which today helps more than 70 families were set.

Today The Ups of Downs has one vision: to create a world where people with Down syndrome ‘live their lives to the max as fully included, valued members of society.’

This heartfelt ethos drives all aspects of the charity’s work from birth to teenage years, including weekly Early Development Groups, for pre-schoolers, to Saturday Clubs and Youth Groups. As well as support and training, on offer is everything from Sing, Sign and Phonics sessions and sensory play through to speech and language therapy and drama, dance and sporting activities.

“ ”

I remember the community midwife consoling me as if Tom had died.

From the beginning Alison Smith, who is also mum to a young person with Down syndrome, has been involved, in recent

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years delivering the Early Development Groups as well as weekly after-school maths clubs for teenagers.

She said: “I am passionate about raising expectations of our young people with Down syndrome and know that with knowledge, understanding, and a positive attitude, our children can succeed. It is really important to me that children achieve success, have fun while learning and have the right support to enable them to learn and succeed.

Of Nicola, she said: “She works tirelessly to improve the lives of those with Down syndrome. She is determined to change people’s outdated perceptions of Down syndrome and is an amazing advocate for the Down syndrome community. She has completely immersed herself in this world and her drive and desire to ensure children with Down syndrome are given every opportunity to succeed and be included in their communities is incredible.”

As the charity continues to grow, so do Nicola’s ambitions for its future and new services continue to be introduced.

A recent addition, thanks to the funding support of Awards for All, are The Ups of Downs Social Inclusion Champions who deliver training to mainstream providers of out-of-school activities such as Scouts, Brownies, dance classes and sports clubs. The ‘champions’ are appointed to visit providers on a regular basis as well as work with the young people and their families.

“Our Saturday clubs exist because our young people generally struggle to access a mainstream one. It is all about attitude. If a leader wants it to work they will make it work,” said Nicola.

“If they’ve no experience of having a young person with Down syndrome in their group there is this immediate kneejerk response of ‘no, sorry, we can’t work with them.’

“We invite people to come to training and understand what Down syndrome is because a fear of the unknown is all-too-often the problem.”

The charity also works closely with a host of professional partners in hospitals and schools and can even arrange access to a trained counsellor for those parents who need that emotional support.

Nicola is particularly proud of the charity’s work in supporting inclusion in mainstream education, resulting in the creation of a specialist teacher role which has been key to integrating children with Down syndrome into secondary schools across the Midlands.

As Nicola looks back on the huge strides they’ve made in tackling the stigma around both Down syndrome and learning disabilities over the past 14 years, she still knows there is work to do.

She said: “My ultimate aim is for our children and young people to be included, valued members of their society. The biggest issue our community faces is ante-natal screening and I’ll be happy when there is a level playing field and there’s not an assumption to terminate.

“Women who are expecting a baby with Down syndrome are treated with the same care and dignity that any other expectant mum receives and that people understand the reality of the condition. If a woman chooses to terminate that is her choice but what I do worry about is the women who don’t have the correct information and support and are making life death decisions without it.

“ ”

Our young people are the greatest advocates.

“It is slowly improving. The more our young people go through mainstream schools, the greater the impact.

Our young people are the greatest advocates.

“I’d like to think that as others grow up alongside Tom and anyone with a learning difficult , it makes us a more inclusive society. There is still quite a lot of stigma around learning disability as future generations go to school with people with learning disability, playing with them, doing sports together, socialising together etc. that’s how you get to know people and realise that actually, we all have the same needs. Everybody wants to be loved and valued and we all have our own strengths and weaknesses.”

“But I do believe attitudes are changing and people are starting to accept and embrace those with learning disabilities. However, the greatest advocates are our young people, Tom continues to educate me and he and his sister Emily will always be my inspiration.”

On Friday, March 20th – the day before World Down Syndrome Day - schools are being invited to Dress Up for Downs to raise both awareness and funds for the charity.

Any teachers interested in receiving a pack, including lesson plans, presentations, assemblies, books and flyers is invited to contact Nicola Enoch at: nicola@ upsofdowns.co.uk or on: 07814 929306.

Like all charities, The Ups of Downs relies heavily on the goodwill of fundraisers to continue its work. Any individual or business who can help in any way can contact Nicola.

Visit The Ups od Downs at: www.upsofdowns. co.uk

Nicola’s positive message is now spreading wider than ever since the launch of PADS (Positive About Down Syndrome) in 2017 – a website and social media support network accessible to parents worldwide.

And she is often to be found at the forefront of campaigning for better antenatal screening.

As well as lobbying Parliamentarians, she has formed a group of advocates who meet regularly with a member from the House of Lords to look at getting legislation updated to ensure equality around antenatal care – and has earned her place as a respected voice for Down syndrome.

PADS literature can be found in maternity units at more than 60 hospitals across the country.

“Our next challenge is to support our older members who are leaving secondary school and moving into further education and work opportunities. We want local businesses to see the benefits of employing people with learning difficulties.

Further information can be found on the website at: www.upsofdowns.co.uk How would Nicola sum up her journey with Down syndrome?

“Fundamentally I’m just a mum, a mum who came from the depths of despair to want to advocate and campaign, to educate and enlighten people about the reality of Down syndrome, to ensure our children and young people are given every opportunity to succeed, are loved and valued.

“I came from a place of tremendous ignorance and it saddens me that, nearly 15 years later, so much fear and ignorance continue to prevail.

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Record Breaking Donations at the Jewellery Quarter Suit Drive An incredible 800 items of work clothing have been donated by Jewellery Quarter businesses as part of the JQ Suit Drive, organised by the Jewellery Quarter Business Improvement District (JQBID).

Battling the wind and rain, the JQBID was joined by volunteers from GoodGym Birmingham to transfer the donations across to Suited for Success - a charity that provides free suits and interview clothes to unemployed men and women.

Over 800 items of work clothing and accessories were donated from generous workplaces across the Jewellery Quarter including ties, shoes, handbags, three-piece suits and smart blouses and dresses. Throughout the campaign these were dropped off at the Big Peg reception which acted as a central donation point in addition to providing free storage during the campaign.

After volunteers had loaded up with bags and suits the short half-mile walk from the Big Peg to Suited for Success was made rather difficult by the driving rain and ice-cold winds but Patricia

White was delighted to welcome the volunteers and receive the donations. Patricia commented: “The donations raised will make a big difference to support the unemployed men and women we work with to succeed in a job interview, gain employment and change lives”.

This was the third JQ Suit Drive organised by the Jewellery Quarter Business Improvement District (JQBID), and the second that involved volunteer help from GoodGym Birmingham. The total number of donations was more than four times what was received in 2018 when the last campaign was run.

Jonathan Carter, GoodGym Birmingham Run Leader said: “Suited for Success is one of our regular charities and we’re always happy to bring more donations to them. GoodGym is all about getting fit while doing good by helping the

local community. The work they do at Suited for Success is amazing, thank you to the Jewellery Quarter community for coming out to support them.”

If you are interested in supporting the work of Suited for Success, they have an exciting fundraising event coming up on Saturday 14th March at St Paul’s Church in the Jewellery Quarter (B3 1QZ). “Preloved” is a designer-clothing fundraising event, bring your designer clothing and accessories and donate them to be sold by Suited for Success. Or take the chance to browse through some bargain items for sale! The event will be open from 11 am – 4 pm with all proceeds going towards Suited for Success. Find out more online.

All photographs taken by Anne-Marie Hayes.

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HEALTH

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07815 460786 01827 892952

Carpal Tunnel Surgery

An Excellent Outcome

Put your hands in our hands Do you find you are waking in the night with a buzzing sensation in the hand? Do you have problems doing your shirt buttons up due to decreased feeling in your fingers You may have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome which affects about 5% of the UK population and it is caused by pressure on a nerve in your wrist. But don’t despair as The Midland Hand Clinic can diagnose immediately with same day tests.

A recent patient shares his experience with The Midland Hand Clinic…“I was suffering with pins and needles, numbness and pain in the night. Injections from my GP only temporarily improved my symptoms and I was told I had Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

Reading the testimonials online about Mr Shyamalan gave me a high degree of confidence so I decided to travel. It was quick and easy to gain an appointment and communication was very professional. They accommodated my every need and it was also very cost effective.

My outcome was excellent. So much so that I sought out Mr Shyamalan when I had problems with my other hand. For any hand or wrist problem and for an expert opinion I’d certainly trust The Midland Hand Clinic”.

Don’t struggle on with pain in your hands, book an appointment today with The Midland Hand Clinic.

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Midland Hand Clinic lead by Mr G Shyamalan FRCS NHS consultant hand surgeon.

All patients welcome.

Ask us about our self funding prices for minor hand surgery.

Hand Clinic PA: Pam Dziubany Email: pdziubany@hotmail.com Call: 07815 460786 01827 892952 www.midlandhandclinic.com

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For more information call us on 0121 711 2424

Nothing is better than our own healthy teeth However, if they are lost, dental implants may be the answer Nothing is better than our own healthy teeth. However, if one or more are lost then dental implants may offer a way of replacing them to enable you to eat, speak and smile with confidence They may offer the following benefits • A fixed replacement of lost teeth without drilling down remaining natural teeth • An effective way of securing unstable dentures, particularly in the lower jaw • The prevention of bone loss which would otherwise occur after teeth are removed and could affect facial appearance • The implant systems we use are supported by scientific studies with proven long-term success

The earliest attempts of dental implants on record date back to 600 AD. Over the centuries various objects have been used to replace missing teeth ranging from pieces of shell, donated human teeth and gold but with, understandably, little success!

However, in 1981 evidence showing the ability of bone to fuse with titanium was published which led to the birth of modern-day implants. Over the years their success and longevity have been supported by much published research.

If you have missing or failing teeth or struggle with dentures implants may offer a solution. Paul Lowe is a surgical specialist and has a Masters degree in Implantology. If you would like to find out if dental implants could help you contact us to arrange a consultation.

Further information may be found on the Association of Dental Implantology website www.adi.org.uk

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In Review:

Solihull

Chiropractic Clinic

The Cornfield Director , Richard and Sam, visited Solihull Chiropractic Clinic following months of back pain and review it here: “I’ve suffered with back problems for years, but following a few months of severe pain, I decided to visit Solihull Chiropractic Clinic. I was booked in with David Evans DC MSC CCEP FCC FBCA, the Senior Partner at the Clinic.

“David was completely professional, warm and welcoming. He explained the treatment I would be receiving and talked me through the process. Any questions I had, he answered them fully to make sure I was comfortable and felt relaxed.

“On a visit to Solihull Chiropractic Clinic, it’s clear to see how experienced the team is. Degree-level training is essential for all chiropractors and therapists at the Clinic, so it’s reassuring as a patient to know you’re in safe hands.

If you feel you would benefit from diagnosis, advice and treatment from Solihull Chiropractic Clinic, or simply want to get in touch with a query, call 0121 744 6627, or email admin@solihullchiropractic.co.uk.

2 Northbrook Road, Shirley, Solihull, Birmingham, West Midlands, B90 3NT

“Since receiving my treatment, I haven’t suffered with back pain or problems, and I have been given exercises to perform should I ever suffer in the future.

The advice and treatment I have received from David at the Clinic has been both successful and exceptional. I really recommend anyone suffering with pain or problems to book an appointment to see one of the team members at Solihull Chiropractic Clinic – it will give you a new lease of life!”

- Richard Cornfield

“I am very active, and run a weekly fitness bootcamp to help participants to get fitte , as well as taking part in regular boxing training and sessions.

Several months ago, I was suffering with bad back pain and was struggling to run my bootcamp sessions. I decided to pay a visit to Solihull Chiropractic Clinic after hearing good reviews.

“I booked an appointment to see Senior Practitioner David Evans to see whether he could diagnose my condition and help to alleviate some of the pain. After a few sessions with David, my back pain eased significant y – I was able to take part in my bootcamp sessions, as well as continuing boxing training.

“I have two young sons, so being able to run around and play with them is really important to me – I don’t want to be a father that can’t have a game of footie with my little ones on a weekend. The combination of my appointment with David, plus making sure I did the regular exercises he showed me how to perform at home, my back has really improved!

“I know how to manage my back pain should I get any, and know how to prevent any injuries happening again when I’m exercising, boxing, or even playing outside with my boys. Solihull Chiropractic Clinic is a brilliant facility, with excellent staff, and I couldn’t recommend it more.”

- Sam Fraser

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Bowel Cancer Awareness Month runs throughout April Knowing ‘tell-tale’ symptoms could save your life Bowel Cancer is the UK’s second biggest cancer killer - claiming a life every 30 minutes. Yet if it is spotted early, Bowel Cancer can be successfully treated in over 90% of cases.

Consultant Colorectal Surgeon Mr David McArthur is calling on people to recognise the symptoms so they are able to act quickly if they spot anything out of the ordinary and stresses that early treatment could mean the difference between life and death.

Mr McArthur, who holds regular private clinics at Spire Parkway Hospital in Solihull, added that people under the age of 60 in particular (over 60’s are sent Bowel Cancer screening kits to their homes), should be aware of what is normal so they can recognise any changes.

“There is an increasing incidence in patients below the national screening age getting Bowel Cancer so it pays for everyone to be on the lookout for any of the tell-tale signs,” he explained.

Figures provided by Cancer Research show that over 93 per cent of people diagnosed with bowel cancer at an early stage survive for at least five years compared with less than 7% of those diagnosed at a late stage.

But figures from Bowel Cancer UK say that just over half of people who receive a free test in the post (sent every two years to people aged between 60 and 74) actually complete it.

“That means a significant proportion of people are not being tested. Screening can detect Bowel Cancer before any symptoms appear which means it is much easier to treat, and success rates are very high. However, even if you haven’t been screened you should still be on the lookout for symptoms,” said Mr McArthur.

“A change in your bowel habit that lasts for three weeks or more and blood in your poo are warning signs that need acting upon as soon as possible.

Other signs include unexplained weight loss, feeling tired without reason, stomach pains or a lump in the stomach.

“Your first stop is your GP who, after an initial examination, will send patients with bowel symptoms to be assessed in clinic by a colorectal surgeon, usually meaning a colonoscopy (flexible camera test of the bowel) or a CT scan.”

In many cases there is not a clear cut reason why some people develop Bowel Cancer, but you can reduce your personal risk of developing cancer by making some simple lifestyle choices: Stop smoking: Long-term smokers are more likely than non-smokers to develop Bowel Cancer.

Watch your weight: After not smoking, maintaining a healthy weight is the most important thing you can do for cancer prevention.

Cut down on alcohol: Bowel Cancer has been linked to a heavy intake of alcohol. The more you cut down, the more you reduce your risk.

Exercise regularly: Besides using up extra calories and helping you to avoid gaining weight, being physically active also helps food to move through your digestive system more quickly.

Eat healthily: Make sure you eat plenty of dietary fibre from whole grains, seeds, fruit and vegetables. This helps to move waste quickly through your digestive system. Also drink plenty of water, and cut down on red and processed meats that are associated with increased risk.

Mr McArthur added: “The most recent figures show Bowel Cancer claims the lives of around 16,000 people in the UK every year so Bowel Cancer Awareness Month is a good time to let people know they can actually do positive things to improve their health and increase their chances of successful treatment.”

Q: How quickly could I have a consultation, and how much would it cost?

A: It depends on the availability of the consultant you wanted to see, but we pride ourselves on getting you fast access to diagnosis and you can often get a consultation within 24/48 hours. Initial consultation fees vary by consultant, but around £200 is a reasonable guide.

Q: If I need surgery, how quickly could I have it?

A: We have no waiting lists at Spire Parkway, but again it depends on the availability of the consultant you wanted. As a guide, and subject to your pre-operation assessment, between one and two weeks.

Q: I don’t have health insurance, can I self-pay?

A: Yes, you can. Our self-pay team can talk you through this and explain the finance options that are available, should you wish to explore them.

Call 0121 704 5530 or send us an enquiry.

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HEALTH

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Make New Friends BADGE RANGE LAUNCHES TO HELP COMBAT THE SPREAD OF CORONAVIRUS (AND SOCIAL AWKWARDNESS!) In a coronavirus era, what do you do when someone offers you their hand to shake? It’s a problem everyone is experiencing, from the likes of Trump, Merkel, Schofield and Prince Harry to meeting colleagues at work or going to the pub.

What do you do to avoid an awkward situation? Refuse the handshake? Offer a more creative greeting like an elbow bump or kick shake?

It’s a conundrum with a simple answer. STOP THE AWKS is a just-launched badge range, designed to make it immediately and silently clear what the other person is comfortable with. Wearing one of these badges instantly stops the awkwardness whilst helping to combat the spread of coronavirus.

Badge messages include ‘Handshakes cancelled’, ‘Elbow bumps welcome’, ‘Let’s kick shake’ and ‘I’m hands-free’ - each available in a choice of colours. The badges can be purchased at www.stoptheawks.co.uk

Hey I’m Michelle and I am 32 years old who back in November 2018 put a post out which has changed my life forever.

I like most people look at social media and think people are having the best lives and going out all the time, this is not the case…

Working for myself can be a lonely place and impossible to meet new people and I tried netball but after one session I was to tired to even chat with anyone that we all just went home.

After much deliberation and worry about trolls behind there keyboards I decided to put out a post asking if any ladies wanted to meet for a coffee and make new friends… the response was overwhelming with over 100 replies from all ages relating to how I felt.

You think you are on your own with how you feel... how wrong was I?!

There I created a group on Facebook for us ladies to communicate and talk and I arranged a meet up for all to attend in Tamworth, Sutton Coldfield & Lichfield s we could all make new friends.

After such a positive turnout, and ladies asking me to do something with this I decided to create a website www.makenewfriends.org.uk where I had a vision for what I was looking for and took the risk with money I had, and invested into something I felt passionate about and hopefully would change lives.

I launched on January 22nd 2019 unaware of how this could go, but over 1 year later there are now over 400 ladies who have joined, many success stories from friendships, to helping their mental health, and better social lives.

I want to speak out to all women who have ever felt lonely, felt not good enough, felt lost, and questioned themselves….

100% of profits from badges sold will be shared between the British Red Cross and Age UK.

You are not alone. You can make a positive change by speaking out like I did. Don’t always believe in all you see on social media, you don’t know how someone is feeling deep down, a smile doesn’t mean someone is happy.

Greeting Badges - £2.50 each www.stoptheawks.co.uk

I hope I have created something that will bring women in the local community together, to be welcoming, to be supportive, and importantly to be kind.

You can follow Make New Friends on www.facebook.com/mnftogether and if you want to be part of what I do you can join on www.makenewfriends.org.uk also featured on BBC WM Radio.

I hope my words will inspire you be yourself and not be afraid to talk and speak out like I did.

Lots of Love, Michelle xx

o Be sure t t check ou ths next mon article

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FOOD & DRINK

Much-anticipated

reopening for popular

Warwick pub THE Hatton Arms pub in Warwick recently reopened its doors with a fresh look and menu to greet visitors old and new.

The popular country pub, which enjoys sweeping views of the idyllic Hatton Locks, is back in business after closing on January 20th for refurbishment.

It hopes to further build on its established reputation locally for authentic dining and classic British cuisine made with the finest ingredients, often sourced direct from the Hatton Estate.

Diners will be able to enjoy an enhanced modern look inside and out, including a new porch creating a more welcoming entrance area and rear bi-fold doors to open up the terrace during the warmer months.

A new lighter, brighter and contemporary interior also awaits, including new booth seating, while still staying true to the traditional pub vibe the locals have come to love.

A team of 35 full and part-time staff are headed up by general manager Stephanie Ward and deputy manager deputy manager Shaney Ayre.

Stephanie said: “It’s an exciting time for the pub, which has been a favourite with locals for many years.

“We never rest on our laurels and the improvements to the aesthetics, atmosphere and menu will enhance the guests’ experience even more and we look forward to welcoming familiar – and new - faces to the new-look Hatton Arms. Come and see what we’ve done to the place and let us know what you think.”

The Hatton Arms’ new day and dinner menu will also reflect the pub’s provenance with an emphasis on locally sourced fresh seasonal ingredients, serving the best of Britain’s seasonal treats from the farms, shores and artisan producers, including award-winning Oxfordshire beef from Rowleys butchers in Warwick; venison from Wellesbourne Estates; free range eggs from Chadwick End and breads from Le Petit Croissant in Stratfordupon-Avon.

There is a good selection of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free dishes plus daily Specials and new bar snacks menu are being introduced.

It’s all prepared under the expert eye of head chef Jakub Fijak, who returns to the Hatton Arms after five years

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FOOD & DRINK

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“ ”

We hope to excite you with the new delicious food amongst the reliable pub classics

He said: “We hope to excite you with the new delicious food amongst the reliable pub classics, showcasing amazing ingredients and, wherever possible, local produce.

“These winter into spring months see the end of the venison season, with vegetables, cauliflowe , leeks, sweet potatoes and parsnips being at their peak. Our seasonal menu also brings the best of British crab and sea trout to your plate.”

An extensive Drinks Menu celebrates local brewers with Alcester’s UBU, Harry’s Heifer from Church Farm Brewery and Hooky ales available, as well as The Philosopher’s Daughter, from Warwickshire Gin Company and Hatton Country World’s Moore’s of Warwick.

The former 18th-century coaching inn is part of the 900-acre Hatton Estate owned by Johnnie and Arabella Arkwright.

Johnnie said: “The Hatton Arms has been a part of our family for about 180 years and is already a popular destination for so many of us who live nearby.

“We want to thank everyone for their patience while these exciting new changes have been taking place behind the scenes – and are proud to show it all off to customers both old and new – marking the latest chapter in its rich history.”

New extended dining times are Monday-Thursday 12-9pm; Friday and Saturday 129.30pm and Sunday 12-8pm. And bar hours are now extended until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

Visit: www.hattonarms.com

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FOOD & DRINK

The Hatton Arms Re-Opening Party

VIP guests were among the first to experience the Hatton Arms’ new look and menu at a launch party in Warwick.

The exclusive event, hosted by owners Johnnie and Arabella Arkwright, included a showcase of food and drinks from the new spring menu plus entertainment from BBC CWR presenter Kirsty Leahy whose DJ set of funk, soul, disco and house classics maintained the party vibe.

More than 100 special guests included former England international cricketer Ian Bell MBE, who lives in Dorridge, and Warwick mayor Councillor Neale Murphy, alongside journalists, business owners and competition winners.

General manager Stephanie Ward hailed the evening a huge success.

She said: “Everyone had a great time. We received lots of positive feedback on the night about the refurbishment and as a team we are looking forward to this new chapter for the Hatton Arms.”

The popular country pub, which enjoys sweeping views of the idyllic Hatton Locks, was back in business last week after closing on January 20th for refurbishment.

It hopes to further build on its established reputation locally for authentic dining and classic British cuisine made with the finest ingredients, often sourced direct from the Hatton Estate.

Diners are now able to enjoy an enhanced modern look inside and out, including a new porch creating a more welcoming entrance area and rear bi-fold doors to open up the terrace during the warmer months.

There’s a new lighter, brighter and contemporary interior, while still staying true to the traditional pub vibe the locals have come to love.

The Hatton Arms’ new day and dinner menu will also reflect the pub’s provenance with an emphasis on locally sourced fresh seasonal ingredients, serving the best of Britain’s seasonal treats from the farms, shores and artisan producers.

New extended dining times are Monday-Thursday 12-9pm; Friday and Saturday 12-9.30pm and Sunday 12-8pm. And bar hours are now extended until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

The former 18th-century coaching inn is part of the 900-acre Hatton Estate owned by the Arkwright family.

Visit: www.hattonarms.com

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LUNCH SET MENU 2 COURSES

£11.95

*

(ADD A GLASS OF WINE £2.50)

MONDAY - SATURDAY 12-6PM

T: 01564 732750 The Bank House, High Street, Knowle B93 0JU *TERMS APPLY, ASKINSIDE FOR MORE DETAILS

Do you want us

to review

your bar, café,

or restaurant?

Drop an email to sam@cornfieldpublishing.co.u to be featured in an upcoming issue!

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FOOD & DRINK

Hotel Indigo Stratford upon Avon wins Silver at the West Midlands Tourism Awards!

Hotel Indigo Stratford upon Avon has won a Silver award in the prestigious West Midlands Tourism Awards. The boutique hotel picked up the award in the New Tourism Business Award category at a special ceremony held on 26 February at the University of Birmingham’s Great Hall.

Supported by the West Midlands Growth Company, which aims to attract visitors and events to the region, the awards celebrate the venues that have helped to bring a record 131 million visitors to the area in 2018 – a 2.6% increase on the previous year. The West Midlands’ tourism industry is now worth £12.6 billion, a rise of 6.7% and supports more than 135,000 jobs.

Carl Davies-Phillips, General Manager of Hotel Indigo Stratford upon Avon said: “We are thrilled to have won a silver award in the West Midlands Tourism Awards, especially in our first year of opening and in such a popular category. Winning silver is testament to the exemplary high standards and commitment to excellence we maintain, and which would not be possible without the dedication and professionalism of my team”.

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‘Play It Again, Sam’ Why not create this delicious twist on an Old Fashioned with the Glen Moray Elgin Classic: ‘Play It Again, Sam’ cocktail which was created by Neil Ridley and Joel Harrison, World’s Best Spirits, in celebration of the Old Fashioned cocktail: 50ml Glen Moray Elgin Classic, 1 tsp of golden caster sugar, 2 tsp water, 2 tsp rose water, 1 dash cardamom bitters (Bob’s bitters), Ice In an Old Fashioned glass, mix the sugar and water by stirring with a bar spoon, slowly adding ice. Then add the rose water and keep stirring.

Add more ice, and the whisky followed by a dash of bitters until smooth.

Add more cubed ice. Garnish with a rose petal.

The luxury dram to toast ‘Rabbie’ Burns would be Glen Moray Elgin Heritage 12-Year-Old American Cask Single Malt Whisky. This is a wonderfully sweet, well balanced whisky rich in vanilla and fruit which has been matured in American Oak Casks.

RRP: £40 for a 70cl bottle ABV: 40% Available from: thewhiskyexchange.com, masterofmalt.com, amazon. co.uk, houseofmalt.co.uk, whiskyshop.com and glenmoray.com The Glen Moray Elgin Collection has four quality, affordable single malts: Classic, Peated, Port Cask and Sherry Cask.

Available from: sainsburys.co.uk, asda.com, groceries.morrisions. com, amazon.co.uk, masterofmalt.com, thewhiskyexchange.com, houseofmalt.co.uk and thewhiskyworld.com

Hotel Indigo Stratford upon Avon, formerly The Falcon Hotel, opened its doors in April 2019 after a multi-million-pound major restoration project. The Grade 2 listed historic building, which dates to the 16th century, was painstakingly restored over a 22-month period.

The hotel has also recently been shortlisted in the Midlands Service Excellence Awards in the Hotel of the Year category and will find out if it has won on Thursday 19 March. www.stratford.hotelindigo.com

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HOME & GARDEN

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Hoods Flooring A trusted name in carpet fitting se vices and supplies As a long-established, family-run business, Hoods Flooring can offer you an exceptional wealth of experience and high-quality service.

Breathe life into your home this winter with a professional floor renovatio Creating a fresh new look for your home is the perfect way to start summer. Why settle for out-dated carpets and worn down floorboards when you can have more?

Together with Hoods Flooring, you can create a bespoke, practical living space by installing high quality flooring to suit your personal style, budget and taste.

Founded in 1939 by Hilda Hood, Hoods Flooring was established with the aim to provide a first class flooring sup y and fitting se vice to customers throughout Birmingham and Solihull. Now in its third generation, Hoods Flooring continues to fulfil this ambition Over the years, we have established long and happy relationships with hundreds of valued customers, both

commercial and private. Our large two-storey showroom stocks a huge range of flooring product options allowing customers to select the perfect floor covering to suit their needs We supply a wide range of carpets and hard flooring including Karndean designer flooring Marmoleum tiles and rubber flooring

Transform your interiors – trust in Hoods Flooring Award-winning and certified team members Hoods Flooring’s award-winning team are all NICF (National Institute of Carpet and Floorlayers) certified We receive on going, inhouse training and attend regular manufacturer training courses to ensure we stay up-to-date with industry standards and maintain our high standards of service.

Our team are fully trained and qualified to handle flooring projects specialising in providing excellent carpet fitting services and expert advice for our clients.

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Kavanagh’s Kitchens and Bathrooms is an established supplier of leading manufacturers of bathroom and kitchen products, providing a full design and installation service.

The family-run business has been delivering exceptional workmanship to clients for over 28 years. Specialising in complete bathroom and kitchen refurbishments, Kavanagh’s will create bespoke expert designs to bring clients’ dreams to life, managing the whole project from start to finish With excellent workmanship, Kavanagh’s are able to mange the entire installation of a project including plastering, electrics, worktops, doors, wet rooms, shower panelling, tiling, and under floor heating. The company’s up-front quotations mean there are no hidden costs, and customers can rest assured their homes or businesses are in safe, expert hands.

For enquiries, please call 0121 604 6464 or email mark@kavsbathrooms.co.uk or beckykavanaghs@gmail.com www.kavsbathrooms.co.uk 32 East Meadway, Tile Cross, Birmingham, B33 0AP

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OUTDOORS

R & A Garden Landscapes At R & A Garden Landscapes, we offer a wide range of design and build landscaping services across The West Midlands including Solihull, Stratford, Bromsgrove, Redditch and many other surroundings areas.

Whether you require a complete garden redesign and build project, or wish to improve an area of your garden, we can come up with a cost-effective solution for making your visions a reality.

Our family-owned business is founded on over 20 years of combined experience in the building and construction trade combined with reputable qualific tions in horticulture.

The services we offer include, paving and patios, brickwork, decking, traditional & artificial turf, driveway surfaces, Water features & ponds and design studio.

From an initial onsite visit, to job completion, we work with our customers on a one-to-one basis to ensure complete satisfaction.

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Get in touch with our expert team today! info@ra-gardenlandscapes.co.uk 07411 619 228 - 0121 537 7273 www.ra-gardenlandscapes.co.uk R & A Garden Landscapes Limited, 57 Rednal Mill Drive, Rednal, Birmingham, B45 8XZ

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Local History Article:

The Moat House The Moat House facing Lichfield Road was built circa 1680 in a Jacobean style by Sir William Wilson (1641-1710), architect. It is Grade II* listed and is part of the Anchorage Road conservation area.

Wilson had been employed by Jane Pudsey of Langley Hall to commemorate her husband Henry Pudsey following his death in 1677. They fell in love and married so Wilson built Moat House as their home. It was erected from red brick with stone dressings and an old tiled roof. The house comprised two storeys plus basement and attics. A wing was added to the north side during the nineteenth century. It was formerly surrounded by a moat which survived until mid-nineteenth century when access to the house was made via a stone bridge, which was since demolished. Jane Pudsey died in 1693 and William Wilson in 1710. Several other owners lived at Moat House including Joseph Duncumb Esquire (dec.1796), who became Warden of Sutton Coldfield in 1760 and 1761 The Moat House was advertised for Auction July 1889 in the Birmingham Daily Post by Messrs Roderick and son of Temple Row West in Birmingham. Stated to be located on the main road in Sutton Coldfield and within walking distance of both railway stations it was situated in an improving area. The house itself was described as ‘interesting and handsome’ dating from Queen Anne’s reign. The house had six large bedrooms, two dressing rooms and two box-rooms accessed from a fine oak staircase. Downstairs comprised morning room and dining room which were wood panelled, a large drawing room and kitchen plus housekeeper rooms. To the rear of the house was a large park consisting of about eight acres. The bidding started at £2,500 and rose to £3,950 but did not reach the reserve so was withdrawn. Alderman Richard Hurst Sadler J.P. (1847-1917) continued to reside at the Moat House until his death in March 1917 when his estate was valued at £19,390. Moat House was advertised as a ‘Freehold Residential Estate’ for Auction by William Fowler and Bewlay at the Grand Hotel in Birmingham on 4 July 1917 of which the estate comprised 8 acres, 1 rood and 10 parsecs.

Arthur Woodall Heaton (1867-1947) and his family moved from Foxhill House in Canwell to the Moat House at 24 Lichfield Road. He was a partner in the firm of Hargreaves & Heaton Solicitors of Birmingham. During the first half of the twentieth century he gave his kind permission for his land behind Moat House to be used for the Annual Sutton Coldfield and District Horse Show. Following his death Moat House was purchased by Warwickshire Education Authority for use as Borough Educational Offices The grounds were used for sporting events such as Riland Bedford School sports. Plans were prepared to build a new modern college on the park land behind Moat House and Sutton College opened in 1961.

When Sutton Coldfield became part of Birmingham in 1974 Moat House transferred to Birmingham City Council. A period of decline followed until the derelict building was vacated in the early 1990s. In 1998 Sutton Coldfield College purchased Moat House for £1 and began a programme of renovation.

The former gatehouse and stables stand adjacent to Moat House at 26, Lichfield Road.

This was built of red brick with Ashlar dressings comprising of two storeys with an arch on the right-hand side and is Grade II listed for its group value with the Moat House. The building has been converted for modern retail purposes.

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Midlands Air Festival

to return to Ragley Hall for 2020

The spectacular Midlands Air Festival will return for its third consecutive year, with a homecoming to its original location at Ragley Hall on 29 – 31 May 2020.

The ticketed event will feature over 100 hot air balloons, including breath-taking special shape and character balloons, as well as an exhilarating programme of air displays.

On the opening night, Friday 29 May, the festival will host its stunning signature event, Nightfire The special event commences with spectacular air displays, featuring pyrotechnics streaming off the wings of our display aircraft. This will be followed by a hot air balloon nightglow, when a mass of hot air balloons tether to the ground, using their burners to light up their envelopes in a choreographed sequence to music. The balloon nightglow will then lead into a spectacular firework final On Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 May, the programme will feature twice-daily hot air balloon mass ascents at dawn and dusk as well as a flying display programme during the afternoons. The audience will be treated to WW2 Warbirds, WW1 air displays, fast jets, helicopters, gyroplanes, high energy aerobatic displays, aerial ballet and flying circus acts as well as parachute and formation display teams, all contained within beautiful surroundings of the Ragley Estate.

In addition to the programme of entertainment in the sky, the event will also feature a programme of ground entertainment, as well as a whole of host of activities, stalls and food markets to suit the whole family.

Mark Lockwood, spokesperson for the Midlands Air Festival, commented: “We’re delighted to be bringing the air festival back to its original home of Ragley Hall for the 2020 event. The stunning estate offers thousands of acres to enable us to host a premium air show for locals and visitors alike.

“Over the coming weeks we will be finalising our spectacular air display programme and we look forward to sharing that with everyone in the very near future.”

Since the inaugural event in 2018, the Midlands Air Festival has proved to be hugely popular with both locals and visitors to the area, creating a truly special day out. Further details of the air displays and ground entertainment will be confirmed over the coming weeks Tickets are now available from the Midlands Air Festival website. Tickets for this event must be purchased in advance and are limited to specific numbers per day so those wishing to attend are advised to book soon to avoid disappointment.

To keep up to date with the latest news and information visit the Midlands Air Festival website www.midlandsairfestival.com or follow the event on Twitter @midlandsairfest, Instagram @midlands_air_festival_ and Facebook @midlandsairfestival.

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ENTERTAINMENT

New children’s workshops

teach the art

of laughter

TWO stand-up comedians are pledging to enrich young lives with the gift of laughter through the launch of their new children’s workshops.

Anne Docherty, from Kenilworth and Mark Hinds from Warwick, are the creative minds behind Comedy at Work, an innovative business that has comedy – and mental wellbeing - at its heart.

Now they are aiming to educate and entertain their youngest audiences yet by adapting their brand of humour in a series of two-hour workshops geared to primary school-aged children across the country.

But the start of their business journey was far from a laughing matter for the plucky pair who have both overcome personal setbacks in order to embark on this new chapter in their lives.

They met at a six-week comedy course after both deciding to take a new direction in their lives.

Fifty-year-old former stockbroker turned London cabbie, Mark, moved from the capital a few months ago to establish the new business with Anne, a mum of three.

For Anne, 43, left her corporate career last summer in order to become a comedian, it has proved to be the best decision of her life.

She said: “Through comedy I have rediscovered my creative side and my confidence and selfesteem has improved – definite y as a result of making others laugh – it is a great feeling.”

It’s this inspiration that drives her ambition for the core Comedy at Work ethos which, she hopes, will help nurture a healthy mindset in children, especially those who suffer with shyness.

She said: “I’ve had so much benefit as an adult from comedy in day to day life. It’s helped me in terms of reducing my own stress levels by learning to find the humour in situations I would normally have found stressful. And I want to share that with children.

“One of the things we’ve been doing is kids’ career workshops in schools and what we’ve

found is that kids are naturally very funny and very creative.

“I have three little girls of my own and I use quite a lot of the workshop techniques with them on a daily basis. It’s just lovely when you see them start to come out of their shell. Even the really shy kids who would hardly speak at the beginning of the workshop are then up on the mic after an hour or two.

“It’s also to show them that laughter helps to bond with other people. It’s a lovely feeling to be able to make someone laugh. It’s also a shared experience.”

The workshops, which have been trialled with more than 500 children at five schools in the area, are open to two age groups: Years 3-4 (ages 7-8) and Years 5-6 (ages 9-11) and tackle performance skills and comedy improvisation exercises as well as ‘laughter yoga’ and even breathing exercises.

The sessions are designed specifical y to develop skills such as creativity, public speaking, listening and confidence building among young people.

Anne said: “But it’s also about learning to be silly. They’re allowed to be silly. They’re allowed to make the jokes they’re not allowed to make in class. They’re allowed to make each other laugh and it’s lovely to see that, particularly in this day and age where life can be so serious and the kids are under so much pressure to learn and get results. It is joyful to see these transformations happening in a really short space of time.

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Jason “By the end of the workshop they will have created something funny enough to present at the microphone and see how wonderful it feels to make an audience laugh – and discover that it’s not actually that scary.”

Anne and Mark also have longer term plans to introduce the workshops for secondary school-aged children.

Anne said: “I think it’s incredible that I’m able to bring something to kids today that was just not available to me as a child. There’s such a gap in the market and as human beings we absolutely love to laugh and yet there is so little focus on that in kids’ education and even in their extra-curricular groups.

“I know it’s a cliché, but laughter is such good medicine. Making life a bit more fun and light-hearted is no bad thing.”

Client Tal Arrowsmith, of Gro-Organic, said: “Throughout their session both Anne and Mark created an encouraging and supportive environment which enabled the pupils to challenge their comfort zones and build their confidence “Through their knowledge and experience of the role of a comedian, they gave the pupils the opportunity to develop their skills in performance and delivery, offering techniques in improvisation and adapting the performance to your audience.

“The pupils were also given the opportunity to experience laughter yoga and learned of the incredible benefit this can have on your wellbeing. The inspiring sessions brought excitement and humour into each school.”

The Children’s Comedy Workshops are available 10-12pm (Ages 7-8) and 1-3pm (Ages 9-11) over the Easter holidays at the following locations. . .

Tuesday, April 7th The Kenilworth Centre Thursday, April 9th Warwick Gates Community Centre

Manford

Announces ‘Like Me’ Tour Jason Manford is back! It’s been a busy few years since Jason’s last smash-hit stand-up show, but fans of his Absolute Radio show will know this nationally acclaimed comedian hasn’t changed a bit.

‘Like Me’ is Jason’s latest comic offering, set to hit the road for a massive 99 date UK & Ireland tour, kicking off in Basingstoke on 3 February 2021 and culminating with a huge homecoming show at the Manchester Arena on 23 October 2021.

Jason said: “After the fun we had on my last tour ‘Muddle Class’, I’m excited to get back on the road with my new stand-up show ‘Like Me’. In these trying times, it’s always important to be able to get away for a couple of hours and exercise the old chuckle muscle! So, I’m coming to a venue near you in 2021, so we can have a good laugh together. See you then!”

Jason’s work spans comedy, acting, singing and presenting and includes a host of top TV credits: ‘First & Last’ (BBC One), ‘The Masked Singer’ (ITV1), ‘What Would Your Kid Do?’ (ITV1), ‘Olivier Awards’ (ITV1), ‘Scarborough’ (BBC One), ‘8 Out of 10 Cats’ (Channel 4), ‘The Nightly Show’ (ITV1), ‘Sunday Night at the Palladium’ (ITV1), ‘Live at the Apollo’ (BBC One), ‘Have I Got News For You’ (BBC One), ‘QI’ (BBC Two) and ‘The Royal Variety Performance’ (ITV1).

Tickets: £30 - £35 (tickets are subject to a booking fee) Please visit: jasonmanford.com Ticketmaster ticketmaster.co.uk/jason-manford-like-me Social media: Facebook: facebook.com/jason-manford Twitter: @jasonmanford Instagram: @jasonmanford

Tuesday, April 14th Norton Lindsey Village Hall Thursday, April 16th Kineton Village Hall For more information or to book, visit: www.comedyatwork.com/kids

The workshops cost £25 but Cornfield readers can receive an exclusive £5 discount on booking when they quote CM05 online or over the phone.

The Comedy at Work team is also hosting a series of stand-up nights at village halls throughout the region in aid of local charities. The next gigs are in Stretton on Dunsmore on March 20th; Quinton on April 3rd; Burton Dassett on April 25th and Hartwell on May 16th.

Photos by jane@janusphotography.co.uk

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In Review:

Roxy Ballroom

Birmingham

Birmingham is home to the Roxy Ballroom, an interesting venue which plays host to a lot of different games and activities. We decided to go there, and we were very pleasantly surprised to find that it was an incredibly interesting place to be, which offered a lot pretty much anyone who wanted to come and visit. Let’s start with how the night began, so you can try and get a bit of an understanding about just how good everything was.

We started off with bowling. Bowling is always a pretty fun activity to do, and it means that people have a great time regardless of what they choose to do. Bowling, in our case, was quite a nice icebreaker, something to sort of start the evening off. We played a couple of games, and then we decided to get some food. Now this was an area that I was particularly impressed with.

There was a lot of finger food here. So, for example, you had pizza, chicken wings, cheese melts - so a lot of different finger foods, and it was really nice. I wasn’t really expecting anything particularly spectacular from a place where entertainment was so abundant, but I was pleasantly surprised by the quality. Something else that we also did was get 24 beers in a crate of ice. This meant that we could just bring it from one activity to the next, we didn’t have to keep going up to the bar, and everything was cold. It was a wonderful touch, and one that we all really did appreciate.

We decided that we would then go for a lot of the typical games that you play. So, we played pool, which was quite fun, there was also ping-pong, and that was fun, it can be quite hit or miss depending on the type of experience that you have, the people that you’ve got with you, things like that, but it was really good.

Great, and they really did serve to give us a fantastic time, but there was one game which that out I’m on all the others. It was called Shuffl and it was a game that was played on a board. I don’t know what to make of it at first it looked interesting, but you know how these games can be, sometimes they’re very hit or miss. Thankfully, this was a very well designed game, it was easy to play, the instructions were simple, and it was decently competitive. We wound up bickering among ourselves about who was the best of us from time to time, and still managed to have fun playing.

That pretty much wound down our evening. Between all the different games we played, eating, talking and laughing, we managed to run our time down. Now it’s definite y a place that we will be going back to, to try the other games, that’s for sure. But what do I think about it overall?

There really was a lot to appreciate here. All of the conventional elements were here, present and correct. Everything happened inside well, the place was clean and tidy, there was a nice atmosphere here, and I genuinely felt like it was a place where people can

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enjoy themselves. The food was nice, and the drinks were obviously great, but what really made this place stand out from the rest is how they mixed up a lot of the common elements which come from facilities like these, and put their own unique twist on them.

Each game has its own personality, it’s own sense of individuality, so I’ve never felt like you were just playing the same stuff you get everywhere, instead there was just enough of a twist to make it interesting.

It’s definite y a place that I would visit again, and one which I would encourage people to check out for themselves. We only played a very small handful of games there, there were so many, more than I can count in one go, and this means that there is enough to appeal just about anybody. You should definite y take a look, because there is a lot to enjoy here, and a genuine sense of fun which appeals to all age groups. None of us were kids, by any means, but, we did have a lot of fun playing, and everyone I spoke to said they had a good time too.

So, all things considered, this was definite y a success. There were enough common elements to make up a place like this, and the service was top tier. I really felt like I could enjoy myself here, the rest of my party did say I was well, and there was so much to appreciate that it was easy to see why a lot of people came here on a regular basis.

It’s one of those hidden gems so you have to kind of look around for, but when you find it, it is worth it. Birmingham, as a whole, does offer a lot to visitors. But, when you really take the time to find all of the unique elements, that’s when the city comes alive. Places like this are everywhere, but you just have to look for them. I will definite y be coming back, probably with the same people that I brought to begin with, so we can play some more of the games, enjoy more of the fair, and check out more on the ambience and the atmosphere. There is a genuine sense of competition in a lot of the games, but not so much the people get nasty about it. That’s quite difficult to accomplish, because some games and facilities are so hypercompetitive the people get absolutely ridiculous trying to win, and then there are some where there is no competition, so winning doesn’t feel quite satisfying. This managed to strike a delicate balance between the two, and delivered an experience which was really fun. I would definite y recommend this to just about anyone.

SAM K LEISURE AMERICAN POOL TABLES – £12 PER HOUR OLYMPIC STANDARD BUTTERFLY PING PONG TABLES – £12 PER HOUR BEER PONG BATTLE STATIONS – JUST GRAB YOUR DRINKS FROM THE BAR 22 FOOT TOURNAMENT STANDARD SHUFFLEBOARD – £12 PER HOUR 10 FULL SIZED BOWLING LANES – £8 PER PERSON PER GAME SERVING CRAFT BEER & SIGNATURE COCKTAILS, ALL SET TO THE BEST ROCK AND INDIE SOUNDTRACK OPEN FROM 3PM MONDAY – THURSDAY | OPEN FROM 12PM FRIDAY – SUNDAY PARKING AVAILABLE DIRECTLY OPPOSITE THE VENUE

58-60 HEATH MILL LANE, BIRMINGHAM, B9 4AR www.roxyballroom.co.uk

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INTERVIEW:

Andrew Roachford

MBE, British singer, songwriter and artist.

Born in London Andrew Roachford, 55, spent more than 20 years as the driving force behind his eponymous band Roachford, whose hits in the late ‘80s included Cuddly Toy and Family Man, before joining a relaunched version of Mike + The Mechanics, originally a side project of Genesis bassist Mike Rutherford. Ahead of the release of his new solo album Twice In A Lifetime on April 3rd and a UK tour, he talks about receiving his MBE for services to music, duetting with Beverley Knight, sharing his success with his family, and how he hopes The Reverend Al Green will read this interview.

Congratulations on the new album Twice In a Lifetime’. It was a long time in the making, but well worth the wait. Why did it take so long and, when you went in to the studio, what did you want to achieve?

I actually recorded and released a “cover” album a few years ago called Encore that featured my take on some of my all-time favourite songs by other artists, so on Twice In A Lifetime I wanted to make an album that worked in the way the Motown and Al Green records are. They sound so effortless and uplifting and yet there is a real depth to them and a deep musical sensibility, not too indulgent.

You’ve been called on for your song writing skills by the likes of Michael Jackson, Joss Stone and Chaka Khan. Where/ how do you find your song writing inspiration? And how different is the process when you are writing for other artists compared to that for your own albums?

When I’m writing for other artists I try to step into their world and actually try to be them in my thoughts and feelings. It’s quite a different process because I’m in that 2nd position as a writer but everything I write is special to me.

Cuddly Toy was such a huge hit in 1988. Do you always feel pressure to write a ‘new Cuddly Toy’?

I’ve never felt pressure to write another Cuddly Toy because I understand that was just a moment in time caught in a snapshot, which resonated with many people for one reason or another. I feel I have since written much better songs and that’s all I need to do.

You have a duet with Beverley Knight on the new album, how did that come about and what does Beverley bring to the song?

I’ve always been a big fan of Beverley Knight and our paths had crossed many times. She actually did a great cover of Cuddly Toy, so when I had this song called What We Had it was really a no brainer deciding who should sing the female

part, and so we asked her and she said yes, and when she came to the studio and started singing we knew it was going be special!

Are there other current artists you would you like to collaborate with?

I’ve always dreamed of writing a song for or with Al Green. I’ve been saying this in interviews for years hoping he would read it and maybe get in touch with me… I’m ready when you are Reverend Al. You recently played a live session on the Radio 2 Breakfast show and, as well as your own songs, you played a cover of Human by Rag’n’Bone Man. Why that song?

I was blown away when I first heard that song because it sounded so unique on the radio and Rag‘n’Bone Man’s big voice has a bluesy vibe which is right up my street.

Radio 2 are playing songs from the new album – the first single Love Remedy was recently the most played song on the station. Do you still get a thrill when you hear your music on the radio?

There is something very special about hearing your own song on the radio; it’s still such a buzz for me, just in knowing that at that moment people all over the country are listening too. It’s something that can never be taken for granted.

You’ve spent much of the last decade on tour with Mike & The Mechanics. What was that like and how has that impacted you as an artist?

Touring with The Mechanics is such a vibe! We have become mates over the years so it’s always fun. Mike has such a great take on making music and I feel I’ve learnt a lot from working with him live and on the albums. It’s made me a better artist.

What did that mean to you?

The day I got the letter about the MBE I called my mother. She has always supported and encouraged me in my music and I knew how over the moon she would be. I was very shocked and honoured to receive an MBE. You were accompanied to the Palace by members of your family including your brother Stephen who has worked with you since the days of Cuddly Toy, and is both your manager and guitarist. How do you balance your working and family relationship?

I’m very lucky to have a brother like Stephen. He is a rare breed; we are brothers and best mates, it’s lovely to have family on the road especially when you’re as close as we are.

You are a musician, songwriter and singer, but perhaps often seen as primarily a singer. How would you like to be known?

I play a few different instruments but I guess I would like to be known as an artist. People like Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Joni Mitchell and Jimi Hendrix were recognised as true creative people and not just for whatever instrument they played.

What’s next for Roachford?

Next, well a lot of gigging and touring my new album Twice In A Lifetime. And I would eventually write some music for a film.. something like Alpha Papa 3 maybe?!? :) www.roachford.co.uk

Earlier this year you were presented with your MBE for your services to music by Anne Princess Royal at Buckingham Palace.

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Social Hat Trick

For Digbeth

Retro and social gaming bars and a private gym set up home in Birmingham’s creative quarter Three new venues have launched in Birmingham’s creative quarter, Digbeth. NQ64, a late-night arcade game bar, has opened within the Custard Factory’s Courtyard, alongside membership gym, OneThreeOne, whilst social gaming concept, Roxy Ball Room has opened on Heath Mill Lane.

The businesses bolster Digbeth’s eclectic leisure, retail, hospitality and live music scene which includes Digbeth Dining Club, Baked in Brick, The Mill, The Arena, Dig Brew, The Mocking Bird, Chance & Counters, The Big Birmingham Bake, and Ridding & Wynn.

NQ64 specialises in retro gaming, offering classic consoles and arcade machines until the early hours, within a UV neon interior. A themed drinks menu and old school soundtrack completes the offering, with games costing either one or two tokens, and 15 tokens costing only £5.

James Craig, of The Digbeth Estate/ Oval Real Estate, said, “The arrival of NQ64, Gym OneThreeOne and Roxy Ball Room in Digbeth further bolsters our reputation as a vibrant destination in its own right. The openings are part of our strategy to bring fresh leisure content to Digbeth; there is more to come.”

Membership based Gym OneThreeOne is set beneath Custard Factory Works and brings a customised, boutique style gym experience to Digbeth. Founded in 2016 by personal trainer Andy Jones, Studio OneThreeOne Fitness also offers personal training; the team provide bespoke fitness and health plans set around their client’s lifestyle and goals.

For a limited time, Gym OneThreeOne is offering 50 memberships – including two classes a week - to founder members for only £25 a month.

Roxy Ball Room Digbeth takes in a full-sized, ten lane bowling alley, Olympic standard butterfly ping pong t bles, American pool, 18ft tournament standard shuffleboard and traditional arcade games, accompanied by a rock and indie soundtrack and an American-inspired menu.

Gym OneThreeOne Fitness www.gym131.co.uk Custard Factory Courtyard Basement, B9 4AA NQ64 www.nq64.co.uk 10 Courtyard, The Custard Factory B9 4BG Roxy Ball Room Digbeth www.roxyballroom.co.uk 58 – 60 Heath Mill Lane B9 4AR

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ENTERTAINMENT

Wilko Johnson and special guest John Otway play BIRMINGHAM – Town Hall on Friday 8th May 2020!

Three time BBC Radio 2 playlisted singersongwriter Callaghan released her latest project, Callaghan’s Acoustic Coffee House, Vol. 2 on Friday January 31 and is getting ready to tour the UK and US this Spring.

Callaghan’s new album has already been gathering critical praise with Music News calling it “a gorgeous acoustic treat for the ears” and the Belles & Gals blog describing it as “a collection of stellar creations... allowing Callaghan’s soaring vocals to shine“

Following a remarkable recovery from a diagnosis of terminal cancer, Wilko Johnson the original Dr Feelgood guitarist, actor (Game of Thrones character Ser ilyn Payne) and all round national treasure has enjoyed a rousing return to the live arena, including a number 1 album with Roger Daltrey (Going Back Home), a sold out show at The Royal Albert Hall to mark his 70th birthday and, most recently, the release of Blow Your Mind, his first album of new material in decades.

Callaghan’s Acoustic Coffee House, Vol. 2 is a stripped back collection of Callaghan’s own songs and some of her favourite songs by other artists.

Eight tracks on the new album were recorded as a live session in Nashville earlier this year.

Wilko is famed for his blistering chop-chord strumming action (the ‘stab’, as he describes it), a technique inspired by his admiration of the late Pirates guitarist Mick Green. With this electrifying sound, his trademark black-suited, scowling look and his characteristic strut, Wilko became one of the guitar heroes of the 1970s and beyond, not to mention on of rock ’n’ roll’s most extraordinary characters.

He, alongside his original Feelgood bandmates, is also widely acknowledged as a forefather of punk on both sides of the Atlantic, fans ranging from Joe Strummer to Blondie.

Callaghan will be hitting the road to celebrate the release of the record, touring across the UK and playing live sessions for local radio, before heading across the pond to tour the eastern half of the USA.

Following a stint with Ian Dury & The Blockheads in the 1980s, he formed the Wilko Johnson Band, with Blockheads bassist Norman Watt-Roy. Featuring former Blockhead Dylan Howe on drums, the trio is known as one of the most exciting r’n’b bands in the world today.

Callaghan’s Spring Tour stretches from Maidstone to Glasgow and includes a sold out show at London’s St Pancras Old Church and a home town show at Lincoln’s Drill Hall. Callaghan has christened it The Million Mile Tour - “I realized that sometime in 2020 I will hit half a million miles of touring since I moved to the US in 2010.” said Callaghan. My car just quit at 440,000 miles, but I’m not nearly done playing my songs yet, so let’s aim to reach a million miles in the next few years. I can’t wait to get back on the road and get this new music out there.”

Special guest ‘Rock and Roll’s Greatest Failure John Otway.

For further information on WILKO JOHNSON, check out the following website / social media links: Website – https://wilkojohnson.com/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/WilkoJohnsonBand Twitter – https://twitter.com/wilkojohnson

The record has been enjoying plenty of airplay support with tracks played on BBC London, BBC Lincs, BBC Bristol, BBC West Midlands, BBC Ulster, BBC Scotland, BBC Humberside, Country Hits Radio and many more.

Tickets for The Million Mile Tour are on sale now. Callaghan has also just announced that she will be special musical guest at An Evening with Bob Harris at the Pheasantry, London on April 1st.

BBC London’s Gaby Roslin describes hearing Callaghan live as “Breathtaking…absolutely incredible”, while the UK’s Maverick Magazine recently called her “a singer-songwriter of a seriously high standard.”

Find more information about Callaghan’s music and tour at www. callaghansongs.com

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ENTERTAINMENT

Rehearsal Shots Released

The Phantom

of the Opera

Andrew Lloyd Webber and Cameron Mackintosh have released the first set of images from rehearsals for the brilliant original production of The Phantom of the Opera which comes to Birmingham Hippodrome from 29 July – 12 September 2020.

Returning to Birmingham Hippodrome following his acclaimed performance as Jean Valjean in Les Misérables, Killian Donnelly will play the title role of ‘The Phantom’. He will be joined

by Holly-Anne Hull as ‘Christine Daaé’ and Rhys Whitfield as ‘Raoul’.

Saori Oda will play the role of ‘Carlotta Giudicelli’, Adam Linstead ‘Monsieur André’, Matt Harrop ‘Monsieur Firmin’, Francesca Ellis ‘Madame Giry’, Greg Castiglioni ‘Ubaldo Piangi’ and Ellie Young ‘Meg Giry’. At certain performances the role of ‘Christine Daaé’ will be played

by Anouk Van Laake.

The cast is completed by Brad Barnley, Cassiopeia Berkeley-Agyepong, Corina Clark, Edward Court, Vinny Coyle, Lily De-La-Haye, Hywel Dowsell, Connor Ewing, Erin Flaherty, James Gant, Lydia Gerrard, Daniel Hall, Eilish Harmon-Beglan, Yukina Hasebe, Hettie Hobbs, Jacob Hughes, Grace Hume, James Hume, Michaela Leisk, Janet Mooney, Ian Mowat, Michael Robert-Lowe, Anna Simmons, Nikki Skinner, Anouk Van Laake, Louis Van Leer, Jasmine Wallis and Andrew York.

Killian Donnelly most recently played the role of Jean Valjean in the International Tour of Les Misérables. Prior to this, he played the role in the West End production of the show. He played the role of Charlie Price in Kinky Boots on Broadway, a role he originated at the Adelphi Theatre in the West End in 2015, for which he was nominated for an Olivier Award. His other theatre credits include Huey in the original London cast of Memphis at the Shaftesbury Theatre for which he was also nominated for an Olivier Award, and Jackie in Frank McGuinness’ Donegal at Dublin’s Abbey Theatre. He created the role of Deco in The Commitments at the Palace Theatre and has also played Tony in Billy Elliot at the Victoria Palace Theatre as well as Raoul in The Phantom of the Opera at Her Majesty’s Theatre. He first joined the company of Les Misérables in 2008, going on to play the role of Enjolras from 2009 to 2011. In 2010, he played the role of Courfeyrac in the 25th Anniversary Concert of Les Misérables at The O2 Arena and also played the role of Combeferre in the multi-award-winning film of the sho , released in 2012.

Holly-Anne Hull is recently appeared in the concert of Les Misérables at the Gielgud Theatre.

She has also appeared in the International tour of the show and the West End production at the Queen’s Theatre. Her other credits include the UK tour of Copacabana and Loserville at the Union Theatre.

Rhys Whitfield recently appeared in Summer and Smoke at the Duke of York’s Theatre in the West End and as Peter in Jesus Christ Superstar at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. His other credits include Close to You at the Criterion Theatre and the UK tour of The Commitments.

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Now in its 34th phenomenal year in the West End, The Phantom of the Opera is widely considered one of the most beautiful and spectacular productions in history. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s romantic, haunting and soaring score includes Music of the Night, All I Ask of You, Masquerade and the iconic title song.

The Phantom of the Opera is one of the most successful musicals in entertainment history playing to over 145 million people in 41 countries and 183 cities in 17 languages. It has won more than 70 major theatre awards, including seven Tony Awards and four Olivier Awards.

The Phantom of the Opera the only show in history to have celebrated 30 years on both sides of the Atlantic. In October 2016 the London production celebrated its 30th Anniversary with a special gala performance at Her Majesty’s Theatre and in October 2011 the London production celebrated its 25th Anniversary with a spectacular staging of “The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall” which was screened live in cinemas all over the world and subsequently released on DVD. The musical became the longest running show in Broadway history on 9 January 2006 when it celebrated its 7,486th performance. On 1 January 2018 it celebrated its 13,000th performance and later that month on 24 January the Broadway production celebrated an amazing 30 years on Broadway.

The Phantom of the Opera has music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, Lyrics by Charles Hart, and Additional Lyrics by Richard Stilgoe. Book is by Richard Stilgoe and Andrew Lloyd Webber, Based on the novel ‘Le Fantôme de l’Opera’ by Gaston Leroux, with Orchestrations by David Cullen and Andrew Lloyd Webber. It is produced by Cameron Mackintosh and The Really Useful Group Ltd. The Phantom of the Opera will come to Birmingham Hippodrome from 29 July – 12 September 2020. To book visit birminghamhippodrome.com or call 0844 338 5000 (4.5p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge).

BIRMINGHAM AXE THROWING VENUE SET TO SMASH TARGETS IN 2020 After a triumphant year, Whistle Punks, Birmingham’s first ever axe throwing venue has announced the expansion of a fifth lane due to an accelerating high demand since opening two years ago.

Located at Grange Live Gaming – a stone’s, or axe, throw away from New Street Station, Whistle Punks is bringing axe throwing to the masses as it continues to roll out across the UK. Designed as an unforgettable experience to bring friends, peers and strangers together in city spaces by form of competitive socialising, Whistle Punks is set to meet Birmingham’s popular demand by bringing in an additional lane to its previous 40-capacity venue. By doing so, it will have the facility to supply a larger offering to the people of the city, opening the space up for an additional 10 people party, increasing its capacity to 50 people.

Whistle Punks’ journey began in 2016, when two long-time friends John Nimmons and Jools Whitehorn, came together with passion to create an experience with an edge. It reigns as the first brand to bring axe throwing as a competitive social activity to the UK high street. Current locations include London, Bristol, Birmingham and Manchester, with a second London site to open this summer. Rubbing shoulders with a hot commodity of venues over the city, Whistle Punks is consistently showing why it deserves a spot right here in Birmingham.

Jools Whitehorn, co-founder of Whistle Punks, comments: “Bringing axe throwing to the bustling scene of Birmingham was always something on our bucket list. Whistle Punks promote an antidote to the isolation of our modern lives; it breaks down barriers to create an engaging social environment in the real world as well as providing the kind of experience that people can’t wait to snap a picture, share online, and spread the word about.”

Commenting on the instructors, Jools adds “The special atmosphere at our venues is centred around the work of our instructors who are on hand every step on the way to ensure everyone is safe but having fun while doing so.”

He continues “We strive to continue the progression Whistle Punks has seen over the last three years and focus on the journey of making axe throwing accessible to everyone. The expansion at our existing venues is a sure sign that things are heading in the right direction, and we’re excited to see what the future holds.”

Axe throwing sessions are 70 minutes long and take place on a lane consisting of two targets, making it the ideal match to bring someone along as you battle away for the Whistle Punks trophy. The experiences on offer range from Social Lane Single Tickets, right through to all singing and dancing High Flyer Packages for large parties. The venue can also be hired in its entirety for parties of up to 50 people, giving players the run of the place and the opportunity to fully personalise the event experience.

For further information on Whistle Punks and to book in for an axe throw yourself, please head to www.whistlepunks.com

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ENTERTAINMENT

& BILLY OCEAN

SHAGGY

join the line-up for Solihull Summer Fest

SOLIHULL SUMMER FEST 2020 announces SHAGGY as Special Guest for Saturday 25th and BILLY OCEAN for Sunday 26th July – Tudor Grange Park, Solihull!

Very pleased to announce Shaggy as our special guest for Saturday 25th and BILLY OCEAN for Sunday 26th July 2020.

With his crossover sound combining reggae and dancehall, Shaggy is best known for his hit singles “Oh Carolina”, “Boombastic”, “It Wasn’t Me”, and “Angel”. In 2000, he released the album Hot Shot, which was certified 6 x Pl tinum in the U.S. He continues to be at the forefront of popular reggae music having collaborated with numerous artists including Sting, Chaka Khan, Beres Hammond, Rayvon, Tarrus Riley, Chronixx, OMI, Pitbull, to name a few.

Billy Ocean is the final act to be announced for the biggest line up to date at The Solihull Summer Fest. The Trinidadian-English musician won a Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance for Caribbean Queen and in 1987 was nominated for the BRIT Award for Best British Male Artist. His other hits include ‘When The Going Gets Tough, the Tough Get Going’, ‘Love Really Hurts Without You’, ‘Suddenly’ and ‘Red Light Spells Danger’.

They join Kool & The Gang, Shalamar, The Brand New Heavies, Snap! The Blow Monkeys and supporting tribute act Rob Lamberti as George Michael on Saturday 25th July 2020 at Solihull’s Tudor Grange Park which now complete Saturday and Sunday’s line-up.

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JASON BYRNE A N N O U N C E S

‘AUDIENCE PRECIPITATION’ 2020 UK TOUR Jason Byrne is back for more comedy chaos, celebrating 25 years(!) of consecutive touring.

‘Audience Precipitation’ is a brand-new fun, happy and joyful show from ‘the outright king of live comedy’ (The Times). The 31-date UK tour kicks off in Brighton on 24 September 2020 and culminates in Canterbury on 28 November.

Jason has learnt over the past few years that we all need to ‘play’ a bit more in our lives. With this in mind, Jason will do what he does best: connect with his audience in a way that no other comic can.

Expect the Irish funnyman to invite - or drag, as it has been known in the past – people up onto the stage and make a “holy show of them”, as they’d say in Ireland.

Jason’s ‘Audience Precipitation’ tour will be a laugh-out-loud, must-see show with a light drizzle of audience participation… ooohhh, clever that.

A strong presence on both stage and screen, Jason’s TV credits include: Live at the Apollo (BBC1), The Royal Variety Performance (ITV1), The John Bishop Show (BBC1), Father Figure (BBC1), Ireland’s Got Talent (Virgin) and Wild Things (Sky1).

Ticket information: Tickets: From £18.00 - £21.50 (tickets are subject to a booking fee) Please visit: jasonbyrne.ie

AMBER DAVIES AND LOUIS SMITH TO STAR IN BRING IT ON THE MUSICAL AT BIRMINGHAM HIPPODROME Selladoor Worldwide is delighted to announce that Amber Davies will star as ‘Campbell’ alongside Louis Smith as ‘Cameron’ in Bring it On the Musical which opens its UK and Ireland tour at Birmingham Hippodrome from Tuesday 2 – Saturday 6 June 2020.

Perhaps best known as the winner of ITV’s Love Island in 2017, Amber Davies made her professional stage debut in 2019 to critical and audience acclaim as ‘Judy Bernly’ in Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5 The Musical at the Savoy Theatre and subsequently on the UK tour. Whilst training at Urdang Academy, her credits included ‘Campbell’ in “Bring It On The Musical” and ‘Downing’ in “My Favourite Year”.

Four-time gymnastic Olympic medallist Louis Smith shot to fame in 2008 when he won the first British gymnastic medal in 100 years at the Beijing Olympics. Following his success at the London 2012 Olympic Games Louis later won that year’s BBC Strictly Come Dancing, before going on to win the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special in 2014. On stage he has appeared in “Rip It Up” in both the West End and on tour.

Inspired by the 2000 film of the same name, Bring it On the Musical features an original score by the multi award winning creator of “Hamilton”, Lin-Manuel Miranda and Pulitzer Prize winning Tom Kitt, composer of “Next To Normal”. The book is written by the Tony Award winning writer of “Avenue Q”, Jeff Whitty and the lyrics are by both Lin-Manuel Miranda and writer of the stage adaptation of “High Fidelity”, Amanda Green.

Bring it On the Musical takes audiences on a high-flying energy-fuelled journey which tackles friendship, jealousy, betrayal and forgiveness – wrapped up in explosive choreography and tricks.

Cheer-royalty and newly crowned Squad Captain, Campbell, should be embarking on her most cheertastic senior year at Truman High School.

When she’s forced to move to the neighbouring hard-knock Jackson High, Campbell fears her life is over. But an unlikely friendship catapults Campbell back into contention with a powerhouse squad and the fire to achieve the impossible Bring it On the Musical is produced by Selladoor Worldwide, has a libretto by Jeff Whitty, a score

by Tom Kitt and Lin-Manuel Miranda lyrics by Amanda Green and Lin-Manuel Miranda. Bring It On the Musical is inspired by the motion picture Bring It On written by Jessica Bendinger.

Performed by arrangement with Music Theatre International (Europe) Limited.

Bring it On the Musical opens its UK and Ireland tour at Birmingham Hippodrome from Tuesday 2 – Saturday 6 June 2020. Visit birminghamhippodrome.com or call 0844 338 5000 (4.5p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge) for more information and to book.

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Motoring & Sport section, sponsored by

Solihull’s Premium Auto Service and Sales Centre Call us today on 0121 405 0821 MotorServ-UK is a family-owned business serving Solihull and surrounding areas within the West Midlands.

Do you often feel confused and out of pocket when dealing with main car dealers?

Our customer-orientated service centres fill the gap left in the market for independent professional and expert car services at competitive prices.

A convenient, reliable Motor Centre you can trust.

Our aim is to save you money, and to provide you with choice.

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Our technicians are highly trained and certified Block exemption regulations mean we are able to service and maintain your car to manufacturer specific tions, leaving your warranty in tact. We are able to source OE quality parts for all makes and models, and guarantee all of our parts and labour for one year!

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Lexus RX

By motoring journalist, Tim Barnes-Clay - Twitter @carwriteups Instagram @tbarnesclay

The latest embodiment of Lexus’ RX 450h has entered the British motoring market. It’s the jewel in the Japanese luxury brand’s SUV lineup – and you can tell. I mean, check out its new sharp lines and that angry “in your face” grille. Coy, it is not.

Fast Facts: Lexus RX 450h F Sport • Max speed: 124mph • 0-62 mph: 7.7 seconds • Combined mpg: 35.3 - 35.7 • Engine layout: 3456cc, 6-cylinder petrol + electric motor • Max. power (PS): 313 • CO2: 134 g/km • Price: £62,455

Of course, it’s not all about looks, and the RX is grown-up enough to realise it. After all, the model was on the scene as far back as ’98, before SUVs were even a “thing”.

Over the last couple of decades or more, around three million RXs have been flo ged. What’s more, the SUV became the world’s first luxury self-charging hybrid when the RX 400h was ushered in during 2005.

The current, fourth-generation RX pushed the limits of the luxury SUV even further on its début in 2015.

Forward-wind to now and the newest RX has benefited further from improvements in a series of design, dynamic and technical upgrades, implemented as part of its mid-lifecycle. But one thing that isn’t new is the powerplant – a 3.5-litre V6 petrol propelled unit. Due to rules on emissions, it’s not often you find engines like this in anything other than high-performance motors. However, the block endures because it’s joined to an electric motor. Together, over 300 horsepower is produced, with mid-30s mpg returned. Furthermore, the car only emits CO2 emissions of 134g/km.

Now, the power output might sound beefy to you, but that’s not what this Lexus is about – even in F Sport grade, as driven here. There’s no sense of theatre at all from the lump under the bonnet. What you have instead is an unfl ppable, luxury car with enough space and comfort to transport a family around effortlessly - and efficient y.

Happily, the strongly-styled vehicle drives as impressively as it looks – but there’s more to it than that – and it’s almost undefin ble. Let’s just say the RX 450h has a unique way of going about being a sizeable SUV. That makes it something of an individual in a segment often lacking in characterful cars.

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HEALTH & FITNESS

Naths Netters Local Grassroots Football Training for Kids Nath’s Netters offers weekly football sessions for kids in a safe environment with an FA qualified coach. The mission of the weekly club is to provide children with high quality football training using the latest equipment, in order to improve kids’ fitness levels, encourage exercise, and most of all allow little ones to have fun!

Nathan believes football coaching is a brilliant way to help kids to stay on the right path and build confidence The club teaches kids to work together as a team, stay active, and make lots of friends. Whether your child hopes to train for a professional club in the future, or just simply wants to have fun playing sport with their mates, Nath’s Netters is the place to be.

Sign up for an introductory lesson for your child today for just £3 per session, with no contract required.

Nath’s Netters makes football fun for boys and girls - perfect for ages 4+

www.facebook.com/nathsnetters/ Call Nathan for more info on: 07805 305129

“

Nath’s Netters is highlight of my children’s Saturday. They absolutely love it. Nathan is great and makes sure all players get a good amount of time with the ball.

”

King Edward VI Sheldon Heath Academy, Sheldon Heath Rd, Birmingham B26 2RZ

Nathan is a fully qualified A football coach.

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EVENTSG uide

If you would like to add your info for FREE on this page, then please email the details to: sam@cornfieldpublishing.co.u If you would like your event in a black box, it’s a minimal charge of £20 per month. Then please call our sales team on 0121 796 6800 for more info.

WE NEED MORE LOCAL EVENTS. It’s completely FREE to place your event in this section. From classes, groups, shows and bootsales you can place your event here.

Please email sam@cornfieldpublishing.co.u to place your event.

The Chalk Garden

A drama by Enid Bagnold. Knowle Village Hall. May 14th, 15th, 16th 2020 Thursday, Friday & Saturday evening performances 7.30pm. Doors open 45 minutes before performances start When Mrs St Maugham advertises for a companion for her sixteen-year-old granddaughter, the successful applicant brings many secrets with her. She knows about gardens, and about people, but will she be able to prevent history repeating itself and bring peace to family members long at odds with each other? Tickets on sale from April 6th (Adults £8.00, OAP/Child £7.00, Members £6.00) Tel 01564 779801 to book tickets Tickets also available in person from Palmers, Knowle High Street

SOLIHULL CHANDOS CHOIR Saturday 25 April 2020, 7.30pm Shirley Methodist Church French Impressions Concert - a concert of choral music by French composers, including the Faure Requiem. Tickets £15 - under 18s free inc. interval refreshments For tickets call 01564 779962

Saturday Night social Dance Graham & Denise Darby present a Saturday Night social Dance, supporting the Midlands Air Ambulance & Guide Dogs for the Blind at Lickey End Social Club, Bromsgrove on Saturday 4th April.

Ballroom, Latin & Social Sequence Dancing to live music by Graham Darby - Doors open at 7.30pm Dancing from 8pm - 11pm - pay on the door £5 per person. For further details please call 01543 502722 or visit www. grahamdarbysmusic.com

Springtime Quiz Night.

When? Thursday, March 26th.

Time? 7.30p.m Where? Knowle Village Hall.

Book your team in now (6 people maximum) Great prizes. Tickets £6.00 each from 01564 778163; 01564 779898 ; and from the Knowle Village Hall Friday Coffee Morning (10a.m - noon) Bring your own drinks and nibbles.

Raffle This is a Knowle Village Hall refurbishment fundraising event.

Personal Training

Personal Training, nutrition and lifestyle coaching in a lovely private gym on the outskirts of Henley in Arden. All ages and abilities catered for including over 50’s and pre and post-natal specialist programmes. Contact jan@ salveocoaching.co.uk for details of our summer special offer.

Art/Adult day Classes at the Core Gallery, The Core

Thurs 10am-12pm and 12.30-2.30 pm starting in September Fri 10-12.00.

Join a friendly group of artists and watch Artist Vicki Gorman demonstrate drawing and painting techniques then try them out yourself, and develop your own style. Beginners to advanced, all abilities are welcome. To book a place and to get more details you can contact the box office on 0121 704-6962 or contact Vicki on 07940483320 or email vicki_kilgour@yahoo.co.uk. Art classes are also on Tuesdays 1pm-3pm at Central England Arts, Hampton in Arden and Mondays South Yardley Libray call Vicki for more details.

Parlez-vous francais or Hablan espanol?

Small group meet in Henley.

More info about, feel free to contact me at 07891390947

Henley Art Group

A mixed group of artisans meeting every Thursday 1.30-4.00. At Henley Baptist Church Hall. Paint/sketch/ whatever takes your fancy, or just sit and have a convivial chat. £3.00 per session paid 4 weeks in advance with coffee/tea/biscuits included. With occasional relaxed mini tutorials and group sketching exercises inc. Still Life, Portraiture, Landscapes and Life Drawing (clothed) adding to the mix.

Contact Colin Fisher 01564 794339.

Or just simply stroll on up and have a chat and a cuppa.

WYTHALL COMMUNITY CHOIR

We are a community choir, with 60 regular attendees. We have a professional musical director and accompanist though the rest of us have varying abilities in singing. We meet Monday nights, during term time, 7.15pm - 9.30pm at the scout hut in Wythall Park. Generally, we are

rehearsing for a concert or performance.

Come and join us. No audition necessary. Just turn up from Monday 10 September onwards or contact wythallcommunitychoir@gmail.com

Solihull Embroiderers

We meet 1st Tuesday monthly 7.30pm at Solihull Methodist Church Hall for talks on creative textiles and hold Saturday workshops. Open to everyone interested in stitch - regardless of ability.

For info: www.solihullembroiderersguild. blogspot.co.uk or email: solihullsec@ embroiderersguild.co.uk

Paint Monet!

Ju Ju’s Cafe, Watermarque, 100 Browning Street, Birmingham, Birmingham, B16 9DT Tel: 07512673985 PopUp Painting invites you to sip and paint in Birmingham. Unleash your creativity – wine glass in one hand, paint brush in the other. No experience needed! Your event at Ju Ju’s, Birmingham will be themed around Claude Monet’s lovely Yellow Irises

painting. Beautify your canvas with impressionistic brushstrokes, capturing movement, light and colour!

Your experience will include: All art supplies – including paint, brushes, canvas and apron Guidance from a practicing artist – but feel free to go off-piste! A themed playlist to immerse you in your experience Drinks available for purchase from the bar Your canvas is yours to keep. Hang it with pride!

BodyPower

15-17 May. 2020 The NEC. BodyPower is the fitness expo you cannot a ford to miss, encompassing all things health and fitness to o fer visitors a wealth of knowledge, entertainment, and of course excitement. 50,000sqm packed with competitions, brands, athletes, seminars, features, and demos. No matter where you are on your health and fitness journ y, BodyPower was made for you.

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CORNFIELDDirectory Friendly, Reliable

Wasp Removal

We are the local specialist for wasp nest removal and extermination in the Solihull, Knowle and Dorridge, Henley-in-Arden, Barnt Green, Alvechurch Redditch and surrounding regions.

We have become a trusted name in the local area. There is no problem that we cannot help with, please call on 01564 330 994 to speak to one of our helpful team today.

How do I know I have a problem with a nest? • Large number of wasps going in and out of a hole, usually using at least one entry point • High levels of wasps in or around the home The method used in wasp nest removal will either be a direct application using a professional powder or spray.

The results are very quick, often all activity will be gone within 24-48 hours, and if the problem persists beyond 7 days we will come back to re-treat the problem free of charge as part of our guarantee.

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CORNFIELDDirectory

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CORNFIELDDirectory

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Modern Luxury, Classic Feel

www.buildland.co.uk

•

01527 519 444

Buildland Ltd, Oxleasow Road, Redditch B98 0RE

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www.buildland.co.uk

•

01527 519 444

Buildland Ltd, Oxleasow Road, Redditch B98 0RE

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