InSolihull Magazine - Winter 2022

EXCELLENCE AWARDS

A new look & feel for this year’s

IN S OLIHULL

Visit The Wonderful Solihull this Christmas. Enjoy shopping and dining at its absolute best!

Welcome to the Winter edition of InSolihull, where we will be highlighting all things wonderful!

This edition the girls have taken centre stage on The Desirables, who knew Swarovski made sparkly sandals? And the Dior lip gloss just had to make an appearance, be warned if you try it, you will be an addict… shine on girls.

This year has been a whirlwind of town centre activity and we could not resist featuring a selection of the best images in the mag, more images are on our website www.solihullbid.co.uk if you want to try and spot yourself having fun at the Food Fest or jiving at the Jazz.

Our long-awaited return of the Excellence Awards launches in November, and we can’t wait to shout about all those businesses that were shortlisted and look forward to seeing the winners take centre stage to collect their accolade for their hard work and determination.

Tough times lie ahead this Winter, we are all acutely aware of the struggles we are facing together, as we look towards a brighter 2023. My hope is that visitors will remain loyal to Solihull to support our amazing businesses to assist them in their recovery. Solihull remains the shining star in the region, new openings, increased footfall, safer streets, and stunning events means it has to be the destination of choice this Winter.

Mel x

Melanie Palmer Chief Executive melanie@solihullbid.co.uk

BY MELANIE PALMER

Jayne Bradley is the owner of ‘Le Scarpe’ (Italian for shoes) in Drury Lane, Solihull. Her exquisite shoe boutique is the place to go if you want to experience a stunning oasis of shoe and handbag heaven.

I had the chance to chat to Jayne before she flew out to Milan on her next trip to source next season’s ‘must have’ footwear. Jayne demands the best products and she’s prepared to travel the globe to get them.

Jayne has been in retail and showcasing the finest shoes in Solihull for the past 34 years. Her secret to success is obvious. She has made her warm welcoming approach to all her signature trademark, her shoes (available in half sizes) are brands that are not available anywhere else in the region and comfort and style are an absolute must.

“Customers have been with me for over 20 years, they like a stylish trendy shoe. I serve all ages but getting a bit older does not mean you have to compromise on your own unique identity,” Jayne tells me.

“I am always honest with my clients too,

Whether you’re after a suit for a more formal Christmas get together or are looking for some warm and stylish knitwear to enjoy the great outdoors, the great team at Moss Bros in Solihull are on hand to help.

Superdry Studios Short Padded Jacket, Eclipse Navy

John Lewis & Partners remains a jewel in the crown of Solihull town centre and the award winning shopping centre, Touchwood. And it’s not hard to see why with hundreds of top brands all under one roof.

With names such as Reiss, Superdry and Ted Baker alongside exclusive ranges like Kin, there is something for every man’s taste and budget.

Want a helping hand? Book in for a free in-store personal styling session tailored to you, whether you’re in the market for a new suit, after a denim refresh or just need help navigating the brands available in John Lewis. Book online - www.johnlewis.com/ our-services/personal-styling-men

John Lewis & Partners Solihull, Touchwood, Solihull, B91 3RA | 0121 704 1121

Ted Baker Breyon Leather Trainers, Black

ooking to the future is essential when it comes to the property market, whether you’re planning your next home move, or looking to add to your investment portfolio. We have combined our unique market insight with the latest statistics to provide the most upto-date property market predictions for Sales, Lettings and New Homes in 2023.

SALES

The sales process will likely get faster. We anticipate that the rate in which the sales market moves, will become far quicker as the pandemic backlog finally eases, allowing sales to resolve and chains to complete. This movement will likely lead to faster-paced sales, with fewer holdups.

Property values may dip, but not by much. With inflation and interest rates rising, it’s anticipated that 2023 could see a slight dip in property values. But not as much as you’d assume! Overall, the market is expected to remain buoyant for sellers with growth projections of between 3.5% and 4% across the Midlands.

LETTINGS

It’s no secret the lettings market is booming, competition for property is fierce, and prices are on the rise. We anticipate that rental costs will continue to rise, as demand remains high and supply remains low, creating a fast-moving market. With letting prices on the rise, and the rental market becoming increasingly competitive for home owners, longer Tenancies are also on the horizon. We predict that existing tenancies will continue to be renewed. Over the last three years, the amount of rental property has halved, making it more important for existing tenants to hold onto the properties they already have.

NEW HOME PREDICTIONS FOR 2023

Solihull is a vibrant gem in the West Midlands thanks to its variety of social and arts events, many of which Centrick have been honoured to sponsor. There is a tangible sense of community in Solihull that many New Homes developers are seeking to take advantage of. Better still, Solihull offers unrivalled access to Birmingham, with commuters being able to catch a train from Solihull Station to Birmingham Moor Street in the city centre in just eight minutes. The combination of Solihull’s fantastic location and community-driven environment sets it up to be one of the most sought-after towns for prospective New Homes.

> £14 billion to be added to the regional economy as a result of HS2

> Property prices in the West Midlands anticipated to accelerate by 18.2% against a national average of 15%

> Best anticipated yields in the region to be found in B90 and B36, with 3.9 per cent and 4.6 per cent rental yields respectively, both of which exceed the national average

COMMERCIAL

Despite the recent turbulence in the economy, things may now improve given the government has taken steps to calm the markets and provide some sense of stability. Hopefully, the impact of those changes is both positive and sustained as nothing holds back the market like uncertainty.

As we move into 2023, sales will face challenges as borrowing becomes more expensive due to higher interest rates and a tenant’s ability to pay rent will be under pressure as costs rise. Sellers will have to hold their nerve and landlords may need to be patient but the Midlands market has proved over and over again that it’s resilient and that its strong fundamentals of good stock and sustained demand help it weather economic storms.

There is also the fact that as things tighten and businesses around the country and the South East in particular look for savings, the Midlands is an exceptionally compelling option for inward investment and regional consolidation. So as was the case in the aftermath of the Credit Crunch, our region may well provide a silver lining to those storm clouds.

CENTRICK

HOW CAN CENTRICK HELP YOU PREPARE TO BUY, SELL OR LET IN 2023

Whether you’re listing a house for sale in Solihull, looking to secure your perfect home, renting a new build apartment in Birmingham City Centre, or considering where is best to expand your property portfolio – Centrick have you covered. Our teams are at the heart of the action, and understand precisely how the markets are moving, providing the very best in tailored advice regarding your next property decision. For more information on the market near you, contact us to find out more and speak to our experts:

Call: 0121 705 3242 Email: solihull@centrick.co.uk Visit Us: 158 High Street, Solihull, B91 3SX

Adorn your christmas tree in opulent style with the Gold Glitter Acrylic Bethlehem Star Hanging Decoration by Gisela Graham.

Price £4.99

Liv’s Solihull Mill Lane, Mell Square 0121 709 4636 www.livs.co.uk

Gold glitter acrylic bethlehem star 2.

Kensington Bag Clutch

The Kensington Bag Clutch is made from a structured perspex showcasing the iconic diagonal rainbow. The antiqued brass Eagle head features rainbow coloured crystals and black bead eyes on the front flap.

Price £129.00

Kurt Geiger

Touchwood Shopping Centre, Homer Road. Solihull. B91 3RA. 0121 711 2902 kurtgeiger.com

AQUAZZURA Aura sandal

Defined by light-catching crystals and a Very Peri colourway in laminated nappa leather, the limited-release Aura sandal exudes the modern, vibrant elegance that Aquazzura is known for. Part of the Swarovski Creators

Elie top bee flower necklace - special edition

Long necklace with a large circular flower and bee piece. Circular chain attached to the central piece with double support and a lobster clasp.

Price £219

3. 4. 3.

ZARA, 11 Jubilee Walk, Touchwood, Solihull, B91 3GS 0121 712 7870 www.zara.com

Perfect for a midweek blow-out with workmates, a weekend get-together with friends or anything in between. Arrowsmiths is also the perfect place for your Christmas parties and festive get-togethers.

NEW OPENING Arrowsmiths at O’Neill’s

The first O’Neill’s pub in the country to introduce the group’s brand new interactive darts experience

OPENING Arrowsmiths at O’Neill’s

’Neill’s Solihull has become the first O’Neill’s pub in the country to introduce the group’s brand new interactive darts experience, Arrowsmiths.

The Poplar Road venue was chosen as the pilot for the exciting new brand, using the rear of the already well established O’Neill’s pub in the heart of Solihull town centre.

Get any preconceived ideas out of your head though, this is darts with a difference! Pick from a range of different games and let the electronic dartboards do all the maths for you. Games begin from just £8 per person for 90 minutes.

The dedicated Arrowsmiths area also includes table service so you can order the best dart-friendly food and drink to ensure you don’t run out of energy mid-match.

Perfect for a midweek blow-out with workmates, a weekend get-together with friends or anything in between. Arrowsmiths is also the perfect place for your Christmas parties and festive get-togethers. Darts, Christmas buffet dishes and drink on arrival for just £30pp.

Arrowsmiths at O’Neill’s Solihull Poplar Road, Solihull, B91 3AB

Tel: 0121 711 3761 www.oneills.co.uk

his year’s FIFA World Cup is the first ever to be held in the Arab world with Qatar hosting the 2022 competition.

Due to the intense summer heat

in Qatar, the decision was made to move from the traditional summer months and it will be the first World Cup ever not to be held in May, June, or July.

The final is due to be held on Sunday, 18th December which is also Qatar National Day.

Will Gareth Southgate’s side deliver an early present to the nation? Well, he’s got arguably the most talented group of players to call on in English history so hopes are certainly high!

If you can’t be there, the next best thing is enjoying the game with mates in one of Solihull town centre’s many excellent town centre pubs and bars.

Among those showing the action are:

Broomfields Hall (Union Road - 0121 705 0742)

O’Neill’s (Poplar Road - 0121 711 3761)

Tap & Tandoor (Warwick Road - 0121 711 1166)

Taste Collective (Mell Square - 0121 725 8809)

The Flute & Flagon (Station Road - 0121 711 3630)

The Mason’s Arms (High Street - 0121 709 1352)

The White Swan (Station Road - 0121 711 5180)

Yates (Poplar Road - 0121 796 5213)

The next best thing is enjoying the game with mates in one of Solihull town centre

England’s World Cup Group B Opponents.

IRAN | WORLD RANKING: 20TH

Monday, 21st November - 1pm

This is the sixth time Iran have qualified for a World Cup and they are yet to make it through the group stages. Their only World Cup wins have come against the United States (1998) and Morocco (2018). They are managed by former Real Madrid boss and Manchester United assistant Carlos Queiroz.

USA | WORLD RANKING 16TH

Friday, 25th November - 7pm

The United States are back at the World Cup after missing out in 2018, which was the first time they hadn’t qualified since 1986. Semi-finalists in the first World Cup in 1930, they have only made it out of the group stages four times since. Alongside neighbours Canada and Mexico, they will be hosting the next World Cup in 2026.

WALES | WORLD RANKING: 19TH

Tuesday, 29th November - 7pm

Wales, despite their success in recent years, are entering the World Cup finals for only the second time. The first time they qualified was in 1958 in which they made it to the quarter-finals before losing to eventual winners Brazil. Led on the pitch by Gareth Bale, the former Real Madrid star now plies his trade with Los Angeles FC.

EVENING ECONOMY focus

Caribbean Christmas at Turtle Bay

Caribbean restaurant and bar Turtle Bay Solihull has launched its Christmas offering and it’s sunkissed tropical escapism all the way.

Turtle Bay Solihull’s vibrant soul food makes the perfect, laid back festive feasting experience. Guests can choose two courses for £18.50 or three courses for £23.50 and the whole menu is up for grabs making it brilliant value, and the easiest, most social festive party option of all.

Turtle Bay is here for all the celebrations and for those who are looking to go BIG, there’s a blissful bottomless experience to elevate those afternoon and early evening Christmas parties.

The Bay’s bottomless brunch now runs through till 5pm meaning that any festive get together booked before this time can go bottomless from £32.50 pp, guaranteeing you’ll get the most out of your Christmas party budget (and definitely the most cocktails!). All brunch dishes, burgers and rotis are included and for an additional £4.50 upgrade to a main meal - perfect for those more intimate after-work festive meet ups too.

The Bottomless Brunch is available throughout the entire festive season, as is Turtle Bay’s famous Happy Hour where all of the restaurant’s tropical cocktails are available as 2-4-1 from 11am - 7pm daily, and again from 9:30pm right up until close.

For more information or to book a table, visit: turtlebay.co.uk/Christmas Turtle Bay Solihull, Station Road, Solihull, B91 3SB | 0121 711 3311

COMPETITION - WIN A CHRISTMAS PARTY ON US!

We’d love for you to try out all of the amazing new menu items at Turtle Bay so we are giving away a £250 gift card! A perfect Christmas treat for you and your guests!

To enter, visit the Solihull BID website - www.solihullbid.co.uk/ insolihull or scan the QR code and answer the question correctly. Good luck!

For full terms and conditions, please see the website.

Competition closes at 11.59pm on Monday, December 12th.

SUNDAYS ARE THE NEW FRIDAYS AT POPWORLD!

Think Popworld but... XTRA! All your favourite party, pop & cheese mixed with R&B, Hip-Hop, Dance, Garage & everything in-between.

Now open every Sunday between 9pm - 2am, Popworld Solihull is the go to place to end your weekend in style.

FREE entry before 10pm, £5 after and £2.50 drinks all night long! These include Single Smirnoff Vodka & Mixer, Single Jack Daniels & Mixer, Single Malibu & Mixer, Jager Bomb, WKD Blue, Desperados Bottle and Corona Bottle.

Popworld Solihull, Poplar Road, Solihull, B91 3AB | 0121 227 5721 | www.popworldparty. co.uk/solihull

DELICIOUS FESTIVE MENU AT TAP & TANDOOR

Celebrate the festive season at the brilliant Tap & Tandoor on Warwick Road who are serving up their Christmas menu throughout December.

There are delicious gluten free, vegetarian and vegan options available too so there really is something for everybody.

Get 3 courses for £29.95 per person or just £26.95 per person for the Vegetarian or Vegan menu (minimum of 4 people required to book).

Whether you’re fancying the tasty Masala Chips, the flavourful Butter Chicken or the inviting Tarka Daal, there’s no doubt you’ll leave satisfied!

Tap & Tandoor, Warwick Road, Solihull, B91 3DX | 0121 711 1166 | www. tapandtandoor. co.uk

SPICE GIRLS BRUNCH AT SLUG & LETTUCE

Slug & Lettuce are celebrating the world’s best loved girl band the only way they know how - delicious dishes, bottomless drinks, games and all round good vibes! Along with 2 hours full of your Spice Girl’s favourites and the best girl power hits of the nineties and noughties.

They’re looking for the best dressed Spice Girl in town so grab your leopard print two piece or maybe slip into your little black dress for a brunch to remember!

So book now and ‘Say You’ll Be There!’ on Sunday 27th November.

Slug & Lettuce Solihull, Touchwood, Solihull, B91 3HT | 0121 711 2605 | www.slugandlettuce.co.uk/ solihull/

The Art of

Paul Horton is widely regarded as one of the most popular British artists of his generation. Born in 1958, he has been painting and exhibiting his art for almost 45 years.

After a celebrated career working with a top fine art publisher, Paul made the decision 6 years ago to become completely independent, and two years ago set up his showroom and studio in Solihull Town Centre. Paul’s work is now sold exclusively through the gallery and his online site.

I had the privilege of interviewing Paul, about being the artist in residence in Solihull, his new releases and his really rather brilliant career. Paul was often referred to as the modern-day Lowry at the start of his career, something which he regarded as an amazing compliment, however the comparison represented just a small proportion of his work, which has evolved organically in line with his own life experiences.

Paul comments, “I am always reinventing myself and my art reflects this, I absorb life, and this emanates from every paint stroke of my work.

The subject matter is very personal to me, and I hope that the public can find their own connection with the genres depicted. The seaside scenes and townscapes for instance trigger a different personal response from the viewer. The single house is a favoured motif, slightly bowed as if bursting with love and happiness. It’s wonderful to meet the public and hear what my paintings mean to them.”

In these times of economic crisis Paul remains incredibly successful and the launch of his sculpture range and the new collection is keeping him busier than ever working all hours! The customer following is fiercely loyal and meeting Paul I can see why. Buying art can become addictive, it’s easy to become invested in the joy that the emotive images bring to the home.

Family is of huge importance to Paul, his son Mark who manages the gallery, is his right-hand man. As soon as you enter the gallery you feel at ease as the atmosphere is so warm, relaxed and friendly. I asked how the public could arrange to meet with Paul and his response? “Just ask Mark, is your Dad in?”

BY MELANIE PALMER

I am always re-inventing myself and my art reflects this, I absorb life, and this emanates from every paint stroke of my work.

Down By The Riverside

Paul Horton

The Ghibliotheque Anime Movie Guide

Price £20 ISBN 9781802792881

Gives an accessible beginner’s tour to the wildly popular world of Japanese animated Cinema, charting a path that takes in everything from titans of the industry like Akira, Ghost in the Shell, and Your Name, to deeper cuts, hidden gems, and future classics that any newcomer to the artform must see.

Winter BOOKS

To give or receive a book at Christmas is so special. Opening the first pages with that unmistakable new book smell, finished off with a touching hand written sentiment and its up there with the most wanted gift to treasure forever.

Visit Waterstones Solihull and their super friendly team are on hand to guide you through the extensive choice, two floors of books and gifts to browse.. heaven!

WATERSTONES Festive Selection

Unstoppable Us: How Humans took Over the World

Price £20.00

ISBN 9780241596081

Yuval Harari’s multi-million copy bestseller Sapiens, adapted for younger readers. Unstoppable Us charts the rise of the human race from pre-history to the present with extraordinary vividness, adorned with captivating full-colour illustrations.

The River Cafe Look Book, Recipes For Kids Of All Ages

Price £20 ISBN 9781802792881

The first cookbook from London’s iconic River Cafe written with beginner cooks and children in mind has been very highly anticipated, and is the most accessible cookbook to come out of Ruth Roger’s legendary kitchen.

Price £20.00 ISBN 9780241563526

From maths-savvy Venus flytraps to incredibly expensive tulips, this exquisitely presented treasury of tales from the world of flora is another essential, enthralling reference book from nature expert Ben Hoare, author of Nature’s Treasures.

Train Teasers: A Quiz Book for the Cultured Trainspotter

Price £14.99 ISBN 9781788163941

This is NOT a book for number-crunching nerds. It is a quiz, yes, but also a cavalcade of historical incident and colour relating to a system that was the making of modern Britain.

The Secret World Of Plants Price £16.99 ISBN 9781529379679

An Emotional Dictionary: Real Words for How You Feel

From confelicity to groaking, discover the perfect word to describe your every feeling and emotion, thanks to this witty, enlightening and completely addictive lexicographical treasure trove from the Queen of Countdown’s Dictionary Corner.

Wild Things Are Happening: The Art Of Maurice Sendak

Price £40 ISBN 9781636810522

Published in conjunction with the eponymous Sendak retrospective touring the States and Europe from 2022-2024 features previously unpublished sketches, storyboards and paintings. It also includes interviews and appreciations by many of Sendak’s key collaborators. Sendak wrote and illustrated over 150 books over his 60 year career and this is a book to be treasured.

Businesses shortlisted for the annual Solihull BID Excellence Awards have been revealed.

We were overwhelmed by the number of entries received for the Excellence Awards, kindly sponsored this year by Phoebus Software, Touchwood, Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council and Solihull College & University Centre.

Want

out who the all important winners were? Check out the BID website by scanning the QR code after November 18th. THIS YEAR CELEBRATING

Brown Director, Government & Public Sector, EY

Principal, Schofield & Associates

Mark Rogers Chief Executive, Leadership Centre

Nonsensical

CEO,

Excellence 2022 Awards

Christmas in The Wonderful

Sprinkle a little Touchwood this Christmas… With a dash of magic and a sprinkle of snow, Santa is back in residence this year at his brand new Christmas Grotto. He’s eagerly waiting to receive wish lists and will even have an early gift for your little ones. Touchwood’s iconic polar bear, Presley, will also be making a return for the perfect festive family photo from Saturday, November 19th.

SANTA’S GROTTO

19th November - 24th December 10am - 5pm, Monday - Friday 10am - 5pm, Saturday 11am - 5pm, Sunday

Santa is back in residence this year at his brand new Christmas grotto. He’s eagerly waiting to receive wish lists and sprinkle a little festive fun. Visit the big man himself, whilst he writes in his good book at his desk. The Grotto is located in The Atrium.

Tickets are £6 per child, book at www.christmasattouchwood.co.uk

THE GRINCH’S GROTTO TAKEOVER

Saturday 3rd December - Sunday 4th December 2022

The cheeky Grinch has taken over Christmas and Santa’s Grotto! Bring a Christmas gift to donate with you to the Grotto for the cheeky Grinch to collect from you! All gifts kindly donated will be given to the Birmingham Children’s Hospital.

Free entry but booking required at www.christmasattouchwood.co.uk

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

Solihull BID – the Business Improvement District for the town centre – has funded a range of improvements to the town centre’s Christmas offering, including enhanced Festive lighting on the High Street, a light-up wreath on Mill Lane and a golden walkthrough Christmas tree in Mell Square, perfect for those festive selfies!

SOLIHULL’S FESTIVE FEAST

Take a break from that hectic Christmas shopping and enjoy mulled wine, street food and live music at this year’s Solihull Festive Feast!

From Monday, December 19th to Friday, December 23rd, RR Events’ Continental Street Market traders will be joining forces with local and regional producers as part of the Festive Feast event. Open daily between 10am - 6pm!

Shoppers will be treated to flavours from around the world with a wide range of hot foods to sample and cold items to take home for that Christmas pantry to share with your nearest and dearest.

JINGLE BELL JOG

Join Solihull BID to spread plenty of festive cheer this December by donning a Santa suit and completing the Jingle Bell Jog to raise money for homeless charity Change Into Action.

The Jingle Bell Jog will take place on Sunday 11th December and see Solihull town centre taken over by hundreds of Santas jogging and dancing to help those less fortunate.

Find out more on Page 30

The CORE THEATRE presents

Panto is Back… You Won’t Belle-ieve Your Eyes!

Solihull’s hugely popular pantomime returns this year with a run of 41 shows expected to sell out as audiences and schools from across the Midlands enjoy the unique brand of glamour, music and panto hilarity provided at Solihull’s Core Theatre by Little Wolf Entertainment, who specialise in high quality pantomime shows.

Ooh La La!

Something is stirring in the pretty French village of Catherine-de-Barmy as bookish Belle is ready to start a new chapter and find some adventure. However, Belle, her friend Jacques plus his mum, Betty the local bell ringer, get much more than they bargained for when they find themselves trapped inside the enchanted castle of a myste rious beast.

Will true love conquer all? Will the curse of the Enchantress ever be bro ken? Will Betty drop a clanger?

Find out in Beauty and The Beast at Solihull’s Core Theatre, adjacent to Touchwood from Friday 9th December to Monday 2nd January 2023.

Having won awards at the British Pan tomime Awards, the Production team know how to dazzle with shimmering sets, outrageous costumes, magic, and mayhem in this brand new furry-tail pantomime adventure.

Beauty & THE BEAST

The Core Theatre have excelled at drawing pantomime audiences to the venue since the 1990s and are located within Solihull’s flagship community building at The Core. Staff believe when introducing children to their first Theatre experience that small really IS beautiful. The venue doesn’t try to compete with the larger big budget, city centre venues, but concentrates on providing high quality professional entertainment in a local setting. Venue Marketing Manager Diane Scruby explains.

“We know that often a family panto trip is the ONE thing all ages can do together over the Christmas holiday season. From the very young through to grandparents, they sit down together and allow themselves to sink into in the pure glitz and silliness of our panto.”

She adds “Here, nobody is more than 14 rows from the front, there are only 336 seats so it’s intimate AND afforda ble. You won’t see superstar actors here but you will see massive talent, outrageous costumes and fabulous comedy, song and dance. Solihull’s great value panto experience is perfect for families”.

Specially adapted Relaxed Performance Great value and easy to park

There’s a special Relaxed Performance for families or groups who may benefit from a more relaxed environment on Thursday 29 December at 5.30pm.

This specially adapted show welcomes audience members with sensory sensitivities, dementia, autism spectrum disorders, learning disorders or anyone who finds theatre visits challenging.

Alterations include:

House lights remain on low and doors are open for free access.

No strobe lighting, pyrotechnics and fewer loud sound effects during the show.

Chill out areas with colouring and sensory toys available.

A Relaxed Performance Guide – to prepare at home for the visit.  wn for a night of good vibes!

Tickets to Beauty and the Beast cost only £22 (£20 concessions). Family and group booker discounts are available on certain shows. The Core Theatre has a full ‘changing places’ facility, a spacious Café Bar and loads of nearby parking.

Visit: thecoretheatresolihull. co.uk or call Box Office on 0121 704 6962 (9.30am-2.30pm Mon-Sat)  wn for a night of good vibes!

Join Solihull BID to spread plenty of festive cheer this December by donning a Santa suit and completing the Jingle Bell Jog to raise money for homeless charity Change Into Action.

The Jingle Bell Jog, taking place on Sunday 11th December, will see Solihull town centre swamped with hundreds of Santas.

Run, walk, dance, jog or jingle your way around our family-friendly 2.5km fun run through Solihull town centre. Don’t worry about the training, this festive run is about dressing up and coming together with friends and family.

Every single person who completes the 2.5km course will be given a special Santa Suit, Santa medal and free Solihull BID tote bag.

Entrants will also be treated to a range of discounts in some of our brilliant food and drink venues so you can refuel after completing the course!

As well as having plenty of fun, your entrance fee will be helping to raise vital funds for the Change Into Action charity. Registrations cost £12 for adults; £8 for children under 12, plus booking fees. Please note children’s suits start at age 4, if your child is younger than 4 but would still like a suit please purchase a child’s ticket, otherwise they can still take part

for free but will not receive a suit or medal. If your child is age 4 - 6 but would fit better in a 7 - 9 suit, please purchase a 7- 9 suit.

Jingle bell JOG

Registrations are open to both adults and children and your entrance fee will include a Santa suit to wear on the day, a Santa medal and a Solihull BID tote bag.

The race starts and ends in Mell Square, Solihull. You will be able to register and collect your suit between 9.30am – 10.45am. The race will start at 11.30am after a fun warm up.

Santa Claus really is coming to town!

When: Sunday, December 11th

Where: Mell Square, Solihull town centre Cost: £12 for Adults; £8 for Children (4 – 12), plus booking fee

Please note, you are entering this fun run at your own risk.

SCAN THE QR CODE TO GET YOUR TICKETS!

Change into Action is an Alternative Giving Scheme launched in Solihull, supporting specialist organisations and outreach services working to change the circumstances of rough sleepers and those at risk of becoming rough sleepers.

Working alongside agencies such as the West Midlands Combined Authority, Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council and West Midlands Police, Solihull BID hopes to make a lasting difference.

Your donation via your Jingle Bell Jog ticket will benefit a person sleeping rough or at risk of sleeping rough and

help to improve services in Solihull. Trusted local charities, organisations and outreach services will identify additional activities that can really make a change to people’s personal circumstances and bid for funding from Change into Action.

Thank you for your support!

TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT CHANGE INTO ACTION AND TO DONATE, VISIT WWW.CHANGEINTOACTION.ORG.UK/SOLIHULL

CHANGE INTO ACTION

It’s been another great year of amazing free family events in Solihull town centre and we hope you enjoyed them as much as we did!

If you’ve got any of your own photos taken at our events this year, we’d love to see them! Simply upload them to social media using the #SolihullCelebrates hashtag and we’ll share our favourites!

Check out our Facebook page for full albums from every event to see if you can spot yourself! Scan the QR code and give our page a Like

CHRISTMAS DINNER. not your average

Whether you’re a sprout lover or hater, or crazy enough to pass up a mince pie, you’ll probably agree that food is the best thing about Christmas. It’s also one of the best things about travel, particularly if you choose to jetset over the festive period.

Here at Travelbag, we’re taking a look at some of the different Christmas food traditions around the world. Call it inspiration for when you’re next in the kitchen, or simply craving a long-haul winter holiday.

To book your next Christmas getaway, call Travelbag on 0121 667 9597 or visit travelbag.co.uk for more inspiration.

Tokyo, Japan

To understand Japan’s yuletide food tradition, we need to take it back to the Seventies, when a rather clever marketing campaign sold ‘Kentucky for Christmas’ to the masses. Now, over 3.6 million Japanese families tuck into KFC on Christmas Day, with meal orders being placed months in advance to avoid disappointment. Christmas cake looks a little different here, too, with dried fruit and treacle being replaced with vanilla sponge, fresh strawberries and fluffy, whipped cream. If you fancy trying a slice, Japan’s capital, Tokyo, is the place to go. Top patisseries produce cakes that look and taste like perfection, and the winter illuminations dotted around the city mean you won’t miss out on that quintessential, festive feeling.

Santiago, Chile

With its predominantly Christian population, many countries across South America take a more understated approach to celebrating Christmas. In Chile’s capital, Santiago, it might not feel like you’re stepping into a winter wonderland, but there are plenty of food traditions to fill you up with festive cheer. The boozy holiday drink known as a ‘monkey’s tail’ is a must-have, with its milky base and flavours of coffee, cinnamon and sugar. This local punch tastes even better when it’s paired with some ‘pan de Pascua’. An ever-popular desert choice during the holiday season, this Chilean cake is laced with sweet honey, spiced ginger and belly-warming rum.

New York, USA

There’s a reason why Christmas in New York creeps its way onto most peoples’ bucket lists. Here, you can experience all the extravagance that America is famed for, whilst enjoying the fun activities that make the city’s chilly temperatures just about bearable. From outdoor ice-skating at Central Park, to holiday shopping down Fifth Avenue, a New York Christmas is about as iconic as it gets. And, whilst the traditional Christmas foods here aren’t particularly unique, there’s a number of year-round staples that taste infinity more incredible after a few hours of sight-seeing in the snow. Savour a piping-hot slice of New York pizza, or pop into a Jewish bakery to sample some buttery, chocolate babka.

Cape Town, South Africa

Visit Cape Town at Christmas, and you’ll find yourself right in the middle of South Africa’s summer. Even up in the mountains, it’s warm enough to wear your t-shirt. And, down by the beach, the bright sun warms the sand until it’s toasty hot. It would be easy to forget about Christmas altogether, if it wasn’t for the festive events hosted throughout the city. Every year, carols are sung by candlelight at the Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden, and open-air movie theatres screen Christmas classics. But, when the 25th rolls around, most people venture back to the beach. And, instead of turkey and potatoes, families fire up the braai to feast on smoked meats and crayfish.

Sydney, Australia

In the UK, before going to bed on Christmas Eve, it’s common practice to leave something beside the chimney for Santa Claus – perhaps some milk and cookies, or a glass of brandy or eggnog. But, in Australia, most people leave out a cold beer for Old Saint Nick. This pretty much sets the tone for what the festive season is like Down Under. Rather than snowy weather and sleighbells, it’s all about sunny days spent relaxing on the beach with friends and family. And, on Christmas Day itself, over on Sydney’s Bondi Beach, tons of people put on their Santa hat and take to the waves for some surfing, before tucking into a picnic that typically features lots of prawns.

Times are hard, and we know that every penny counts now more than ever.

The VIP card is here to help, offering discounts on a selection of our Solihull favourites. Once you sign up online we will also give you VIP notice of our FREE events and festivals in the town centre.

To claim your free VIP card visit one of the stores listed such as New Look , Revital , the Merry Cobbler or Photo Zone and claim your shiny platinum card.

The QR code will then direct you to sign up, once signed up you can unlock the access to see the offers.

Celebrate the Festive period at The Woods on Solihull High Street and experience their amazing Winter Wonderland!

Take a break from your Christmas shopping on the bustling High Street and relax with a range of food and drink options made especially for this magical time of year.

The Woods also run in-house events to make your visit even more special. They will be showing Christmas movies from 9am - 11am and 3pm - 5pm throughout December and also offering mulled wine on selected dates in December.

You’ll also have the chance to win a hot chocolate board if you find the missing gingerbread mancompetition will be running on specific dates in December.

For more information and specific dates, visit www.thewoodssolihull.com and follow The Woods on Facebook and Instagram@TheWoodsSolihull

The Woods, 97 High Street, Solihull, B91 3SW | 0121 705 9774

THE WOODS

Christmas Menu

MAIN DISHES

Ultimate Christmas Yorkshire toastie served with gravy and steamed veg

Red onion and Brussels sprout panini Bacon, brie and cranberry toastie

5 cheeses of Christmas board

Christmas Charcuterie Board

SMALL PLATES

Mini pigs in blankets

Mini roast skin on potatoes Bacon and cheese Brussels sprouts

Simple steamed veg

FESTIVE DRINKS

Snow White hot chocolate

Ruby red Christmas coco Butterscotch Cappuccino

Lotus latte

Gingerbread spiced latte Gingerbread hot chocolate

By Melanie Palmer

HOSPITALITY HERO

Elvin is General Manager for the award-winning Touchwood Shopping Centre. A centre that is defying the odds and proving that retail is alive and well in Solihull as they buck the trend for tenant occupancy, sales and footfall.

Tony is also President of the Solihull Chamber, a Qualified Sommelier, and head judge for the Midlands food, drink and hospitality awards, last year he was a runner up for UK Shopping Centre Manager of the year and has made the shortlist again this year. Tony is also vice Chair for Solihull BID, and as Touchwood is doing so well, I took the opportunity to have a coffee and a catch up to find out a bit more about his journey.

Tony’s background should have been as a quantity surveyor but after taking on a bar job in the evenings; it soon became clear that he was more excited about working behind a bar than behind a desk, so he made the change. Starting off at a bowling centre bar, he quickly became recognised as a natural organiser and problem solver whilst significantly driving sales, the management recognised this, promoted him and moved him on to bigger centres around the country enjoying great success.

Tony attributes much of this success to a Leukaemia diagnosis at the age of 21 and a process of treatment and recovery. “This pivotal moment in my life changed everything” said Tony, “it really does make you value every day that you are alive and grateful for everything life has to offer.”

Starting in Essex, Tony’s career travelled an upward path following his recovery, bowling centres were swapped for gyms, gyms became hotels. Within each arena he worked out

what made each business tick and ended up managing that group’s flagship operation through the results he would deliver.

Hospitality is fun but is not easy. Long hours, demanding guests, constant problem solving on the fly and managing on a tight budget mean you have to be pretty resilient. Whilst it was the opening of the Village Hotel in Shirley that brought him to the region in 2009, the last role before Tony took over at Touchwood was as the GM at Hotel Du Vin in Birmingham, one of the most prestigious hotels in the region.

Tony’s connections in the hospitality industry have been instrumental in attracting new sign-ups at Touchwood such as Jamaya, Alioli, Asha’s, Dirty Wild Wings, Tio Latino, Emporio Artari and Yakinori.

“I love my role here in Touchwood” said Tony. “My strategy has been to focus on my team, collaborating with our community, creating memorable moments for our guests, trying to make everyone from every community feel welcome and to break free from the cookie cutter shopping centre model that offers the same stores and restaurants. I felt we deserved something better in Solihull, something different, hence the focus on independent dining.”

I asked Tony what advice he would give to others out there looking to develop their own opportunities for growth? “Say yes to opportunities and remember success is all about working with and through people. Listen to your people, respect them, give them a platform to succeed and communicate clearly. Do that and you won’t go far wrong.”

Tony Elvin

Tony Elvin’s book choice: The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini.

“It is a heart breaking and heart warming story in equal measure”

Tony Elvin’s book choice is available from Waterstones on Solihull High Street0121 711 2454.

I love my role here in Touchwood “ “

Tony