Edge Magazine December 2011 Edition

Your essential guide to WARWICKSHIRE, WORCESTERSHIRE & WEST MIDLANDS

DEC '11

A VENUE FOR...

112 TONS OF RICE

OR A 24-HOUR MINIATURE MARATHON - STAN’S CAFE

TAKE THE RIGHT PHOTO OF YOUR KIDS THIS FESTIVE SEASON UNIVERSE FRIENDLY BIO-WINES (ORGANICALLY SPEAKING) DOG FRIENDLY RESTAURANT - THE HUFF CAP CHRISTMAS EDITION

SHOPPING IN A BARN A WINTER'S DAY OUT

the perfect expression of love

Mastercut the perfect expression of love

A

gift of nature from the depths of the earth and the ultimate symbol of everlasting love, the Mastercut diamond is cut by the most skilled of craftsmen to reveal its dazzling splendour unlocking a star inside every stone.

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Mastercut diamonds are sold with the highest of guarantees. This includes a certificate that

Mastercut Collections available at: Cupitt Jewellers, Bromsgrove D C Leake, Nuneaton, Francis & Gaye, Coventry T H Baker, Shrewsbury, Merry Hill, Kidderminster, Stourbridge Tustains, Leamington Spa W H Peplow, Worcester

traces each stone back to the original rough diamond from which it was crafted. It even shows the date your stone was polished by our artisans.

Exquisitely crafted in gold and platinum, Mastercut engagement rings and diamond jewellery are available in a range of designs, from romantic vintage styles to classic and contemporary collections.

Other women can only dream of stars; the woman who wears a Mastercut diamond is adorned with a star and sparkles with the knowledge that her diamond shines more brightly than any other.

AUTUMN COLLECTIONS NOW IN NEW THIS SEASON

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Once again Chopard offers the utmost in luxury. The 2010 Prescription Collection offers eyewear as precious as jewellery accessories for an élite elegance that confirms the close link between the brand’s eyewear, jewellery and watch collections. Particularly feminine, elegant, lightweight styles are created with great precision using precious materials, becoming essential accessories for women who love luxury.

There is a lot of metal in this collection, which has traditionally abounded in gold plating and details, though plastic is also essential for creating more contemporary, fresh styles with a glamorous look enriched with precious details associated with the Chopard style.

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Welcome to Edge Magazine, your new guide to Warwickshire, Worcestershire and the West Midlands. After months of hard work, we are proud to bring you our first edition. In it, you will find a variety of facts, opinions, reviews and a host of other interesting things from around the counties. We would like to take the opportunity to thank all those who have helped in making this possible, without your help, we could not have achieved this in such a short time.

Over the coming months, we intend to bring you the very best of what the three counties has to offer. From innovative businesses' in your area, to great places to eat and visit, we want to share with you all the interesting things we find out. We want Edge Magazine to reflect what our readers think about and want, so your opinions really matter to us. We're always on the look for new, exciting content so if you have something to share please let us know. Similarly, we want to know what you think about the magazine and its content, if you have any comments you would like to share with us please let us know. To find out how you can do this, visit us at www.edgemagazine.org .

On behalf of the whole team at Edge Magazine, we would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. We hope you enjoy the magazine.

from the editor

Michael Abu-Zalaf

Longbarn Village Shopping, just more countrified

11

A Christmas in the ‘Shires Festivities in and around your home

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Photos that should last Take a worthwhile photo of your kids

24

Stan’s Cafe A real treat in Birmingham

28

A great place to eat, drink and Bring your dog Food and drink at the Huff Cap, Great Alne

50

“Stellar” Wine?

Using what's above us for a better tipple

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December 2011 5

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www.edgemagazine.org Contents

CONTENTS Sit forward and relax

16

What's in your pocket

66

Puro by name

22

In santa's sack this christmas

70

Marco Bicego

35

Winter Garden

72

Look fabulous

37

Pension planning

74

Jon Welsh

45

Use your pension fund

76

Food!

54

Silly Season Surveys

78

A national charging infrastructure

60

In your county

80

Plug-in car grant

62

Warwickshire’s best kept secret

82

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contributors

8

Donna Davis

Rob Price

Adam Church Millward

Kerrie Dawson

James Yarker

Hilary Collins

Danielle Montgomery

Jon Welsh

Chris Gilchrest

Laurence Jones

Mick Barclei-Smythe

Angela Hinksman

December 2011

WHO ARE WE?

Michael Abu Zalaf

Editor michael@edgemagazine.org @ZalafAbu

Tom Kolodotschko

David Lincoln-Lewis

Creative & Digital Director tom@edgemagazine.org Often found in city coffee shops sketching or behind a computer, twiddling with type. @dotschko

Commercial Director david@edgemagazine.org Unfortunately, has never lost the love for music on vinyl.

Eileen O'Kane

Accounts Manager eileen@edgemagazine.org Behind every good man is a better woman.

@dla_HQ

WE NEED YOU

Let us know what you think about our new & exciting window on the world & how best we can serve you in future editions. Have a look at our website for more details.

WWW.EDGEMAGAZINE.ORG

Writers, bloggers and reporters unite. If

you feel that you can provide feedback, stories, real time comments & opinions on the magazine or our community in Warwickshire, Worcestershire & West Midlands then we would like to hear from you.

If you would like to enquire about working with Edge, please check out our website for more information www.edgemagazine.org/work-for-us

Advertise with us

If you would like to promote your business then please get in touch. advertise@edgemagazine.org Alternatively please go and visit our website for further details. www.edgemagazine.org/advertise-with-us December 2011 9

LONGBARN VILLAGE Eat, shop and explore

www.edgemagazine.org Longbarn Village

L

ongbarn may look like any other barn-conversion shopping or craft centre, but this sympathetically and lovingly restored medieval courtyard is steeped in history as significant as that of Kenilworth Castle (although possibly with not as many royal connections!) Jayne Roberts, Longbarn’s owner – and a big part of its recent history – can trace Longbarn all the way back to 1666 when a birth was registered at the property. The year may ring bells because it happened to be the year of the Great Fire of London. It was also the year that Sir Robert Fitz Corbet received the Barony and Manor of Alcester for his loyal service to the King – Fitz Corbet’s daughter Sybil Corbet was known to be a favourite of King Henry I’s mistresses and was said to have bore at least 4 of his illegitimate children! Almost 2 centuries later, the Manor was acquired by Walter Beauchamp who – after first losing it to the Crown – renamed the manor Beauchamp Court. Longbarn sits on what was then Beauchamp Court’s hunting lodge. In the 15th century the property moved from the hands of the Beauchamp’s into the hands of the Grevilles. (Fulke Greville – author of The Life of the Renowned Sir Philip Sydney - served as treasurer of the navy for Elizabeth I as well as Chancellor of the Exchequer and commissioner of the treasury for James I, and who, for his services, in 1621 was granted Warwick Castle).

For the last few hundred years, Longbarn was tenant-farmed and the ownership now lies with the Marquis of Hertford’s Ragley Estate. The last tenant-farmer left in 1961 and the buildings were, sadly, abandoned - damaged by the weather and local vandals. The restoration of Longbarn began when permission was, finally, granted in 2000.

Today, Longbarn is home to a variety of new businesses including a restaurant, tea room and a kitchen design showroom; signature cupcake, photography and art studios, as well as a prom dress and mother-of-the-bride shop and a bridal boutique.

TRULY SCRUMPTIOUS Truly Scrumptious specialise in creating beautiful handmade cakes that taste divine. From signature cupcakes to bespoke wedding cakes, every order is tailored to clients requirements. Cupcakes can be personalised and suitable for any occasion and bespoke occasion cakes are also available to order. Expect beautifully presented cakes that are made with only the finest, locally sourced ingredients.

With friendly and reliable service, customers are sure to return time and time again.

For orders or to arrange a free no obligation consultation to discuss your requirements contact Kerrie on 07512 321 681 or email kerrie@trulyscrumptiouscake.com

ORANGEMABEL TEAROOM Orangemabel Tearoom is a wonderland of English High and Cream Tea all served on beautiful Vintage Crockery. Imagine, leaf tea, China cups together with a selection of sandwiches and cakes on tiered cake stands. With huge fruit scones, it’s a real treat.

Orangemabel Tearoom was born from Longbarn Village owner Jayne’s love of all things Vintage “I wanted to do traditional but fun.

Its been a real success this summer” says Jayne ‘with garden parties, anniversary’s, weddings and even baby showers all special occasions can be ‘Vintage style’ Christmas Menu now available 01789 400 646 jayne@longbarnvillage.com

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December 2011

DREAM PROM Dream Prom specialises in prom dresses and evening wear with probably the largest selection of evening dresses and ball gowns in the West Midlands.. We realise how important buying the dress of your dreams is. We have the expertise and patience to help you find a dress that suits your colouring and your shape, one that will make you look and feel beautiful. We also stocks Hats, shoes and christening gowns. In the spring we will be launching our Mother of the bride and groom range.

07793 283 025 www.dreamprom.co.uk

STEVE HAYWOOD AND ROSIE LIPPETT ART STUDIO Steve Haywood and Rosie Lippett are two of Warwickshire’s leading artists who have set up a studio at Longbarn Village. Steve is an artist and an author of several children’s books whilst Rosie is a Royal Worcester Porcelain trained fine artist. Steve works in an abstract view and uses bright vibrant colour whereas Rosie takes a more traditional approach to her work. Their art is displayed in various locations on site at Longbarn.

Take a look at some of their work on line at www.artdepotbidford.co.uk

OCCASIONS BY DESIGN Occasions by design bridal boutique is the perfect place for you to choose your dream wedding gown. With collections from Pronovias, White One by Pronovias, Sottero & Midgley, Veromia, Sonsie, Justin Alexander, Impression and Forever Yours, accessories such as shoes by Rachel Simpson, Rainbow Club and Else, tiaras, veils and jewellery, all providing faultless finishing touches to any special outfit. Our Warwickshire boutique has an enviable reputation for a friendly and professional customer service, let our experienced team help you find your dream gown for your special day.

See website www.occasionsbydesign.co.uk or call 01789 766 447.

›

December 2011 13

www.edgemagazine.org Longbarn Village

› THE CHEF’S DOZEN Relaxed fine dining, with the original idea of offering exactly twelve dishes - ‘the chef’s dozen’. Seasonal English ingredients imaginatively delivered by the ex-Sous Chef of a World Top 50 restaurant. ‘the chef’s dozen’ menu allows you to plan your own 4-course journey through the 12 options for a set price of £26. ‘the chef’s dozen’ strips back the unnecessary fuss to bring you a unique experience. Also open for light lunches like a healthy salad or yummy pasta and is a perfect venue for private parties.

01789 766 300 www.thechefsdozen.co.uk

LONGBARN PHOTOGRAPHY Longbarn Photography offers you a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Photographer, Sharon Trueman prides herself on creating beautiful natural shots, producing stunning pictures for you to treasure. From Portraits, Weddings, Christenings, Pet Photography, Children’s Parties, Grown Up Parties, Corporate Events, Anniversaries, Celebrations, Prom Nights, Engagements, Commercial, Staff Photo’s, Events, Makeover’s and fun Photo Shoots Longbarn Photography can cover all your photography needs! Gift/Birthday Vouchers available.

Please call Sharon Trueman on 07766 - 836 905 or visit www.longbarnphotography.co.uk for more information.

THE LAGOON AT LONGBARN A unique concept offering a range of high quality hair services, beauty treatments and fitness/lifestyle programmes to suit your individual needs, all under one roof. Customer Service is our speciality! Inviting you into a relaxed, professional and friendly atmosphere. Offering hair colour expertise, hair extensions and the latest in wedding hair design, Dermalogica facials, body treatments, spray tanning and make-up advice, Want to shape up and feel on top of the world? Power Plate and personal training sessions with specialised dietary advice available.

We also provide Calgel and Shellac nail enhancements.

Visit us at www.thelagoon.co.uk, Enquiries@thelagoon.co.uk Contact The Lagoon on 01789 400345

BESPOKE KITCHENS Bespoke at Longbarn is no ordinary kitchen showroom. Tucked away in the magnificent 600 year old Threshing Barn is a state of the art working GAGGENAU Kitchen, housed in bespoke cabinetwork. GAGGENAU is Bosch - Neff - Siemens Group’s premium brand.

Imagine your kitchen and picture the possibilities. At bespoke we are dedicated to delivering the inspired design, meticulous on manufacture and with in-house professional installers we guarantee you the highest quality in kitchens and appliances.

Come and visit and take advantage of a complementary professional design consultation.

Contact Morris on 01789 - 763929 or visit www.bespokelongbarn.co.uk n

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December 2011

Quality Name In Bathrooms

Enter our showroom and plunge yourself into a world of luxury.

Immerse yourself in the wealth of superb bathroom fittings – many are exclusive to Jacques.

Jacques Bathrooms have been creating people’s dreams since 1979, carrying out the complete design and installation.

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www.edgemagazine.org Sit forward and relax

SIT FORWARD AND RELAX

A hands on approach to reduce the impact of life and work pressure

M

odern life is stressful. Pressures at work combined with busy lives outside the workplace, are cited as the main causes of stress, which, if not addressed, can affect both a person’s mental and physical well being.

Stress is the second most commonly reported work related illness, believed to trigger 70% of all visits to a doctor. British businesses lose an estimated £13 billion each year as a result of illness due to stress.

more positive working environment. Using a therapeutic technique developed by David Palmer for Apple Computer employees in 1984, Go Wellbeing offers staff the opportunity to experience seated acupressure-based massage - in the workplace.

The on-site, upper body massage service is a noninvasive treatment, using a special ergonomically designed chair. The client remains fully clothed and the therapist listens to the needs of each individual, to ensure the recipient gains the maximum benefit from the treatment.

Dame Carol Black’s 2008 report, ‘Working for a healthier tomorrow’, called for urgent and Requiring only the chair, a room comprehensive reform and a new approach to health Reduce aches and pains, and the therapist, the service is mobile. The cost is less and work in Britain. The anxiety and tiredness~ infinitely than typically paid for a salon report recognized great based table massage and requires progress had been made in only a short time commitment. The massage can improving health and safety but a new approach last for as little as ten minutes to thirty minute to well-being at work was needed. sessions.

Forward thinking organizations are now “This service helps reduce aches and pains, realizing the cost effectiveness of providing this anxiety and tiredness, leaving staff feeling more type of preventative healthcare. When offered motivated, confident and productive,” says Donna at work staff feel more valued, especially if the Davis, founder of Go Wellbeing. “This can help service is subsidized by the employer or provided reduce absenteeism and may form part of a staff free-of-charge as part of a package of staff welfare programme”. n benefits.

}

Go Wellbeing is a Worcestershire based business which helps employers promote a

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December 2011

Donna Davis info@gowellbeing.co.uk www.gowellbeing.co.uk

December 2011 17

www.edgemagazine.org a Christmas in the ‘Shires

S

A CHRISTMAS IN THE ‘SHIRES pread the Joy...

your guide to local festivities this

Christmas.

My favourite time of year just has to be the lead up to Christmas. Nothing compares to the excitement of mulled wine flowing amongst friends and streets aglow with fairy lights. Christmas cheer spreads as hoards of excitable people flock to festive proceedings in their local community, all wrapped up in their warmest attire. Christmas is truly a magical time of year for all the family and to ensure you make the most of the festivities this season, there are an abundance of events to choose from. Forget frantic gift wrapping and crowded shopping centres, for whether its craft fairs, food festivals, concerts or the office party that gets you in the spirit, here are some of the very best events that Warwickshire and Worcestershire have to offer...

WARWICKSHIRE Christmas themed markets are a great way to sample the delights of local and not so local foods and pick up some truly individual handmade gifts. Many of the local markets feature hundreds of stalls selling everything from decorations to handmade jewellery. Combining a great shopping experience and some delicious treats such as Hog Roasts, German Sausage and traditional roasted Chestnuts’, Christmas markets are a fabulously festive way to spend an evening with friends and family. Stratford-upon-Avon holds a Christmas market every Thursday from 24th November until 8pm and Leamington Spa’s Yuletide Fair runs every Sunday from 20th November, throughout December. Don’t forget to check when your local Christmas lights are switched on; attending is a long running tradition of mine as it’s wonderful to see the whole community gathering together Compton Verney boasts a beautiful setting for their festive weekends. Anticipate Christmas with traditional family activities including card and decoration making, live music through the galleries, storytelling and indulge with Christmas lunch in the cafe. You can join in the fun on Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th December.

Wrap up warm and visit Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, Stratford-upon-Avon, for an evening of Carols by Candlelight on December 3rd. Mulled wine, mince pies, cottage tours and gift shopping are just some of the treats on offer whilst the local children’s Choir entertain you with their angelic voices.

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For those of you with energy to burn on these crisp winter days, the annual Santa Dash in Warwick is a fun run with a difference for adults and children. Every adult receives a free Santa suit to wear for the 6km run and there are prizes for the best dressed children so fancy dress is a must! Get your family and friends involved as it’s a great way to raise money for charity. The Dash takes place on Sunday 11th December.

Warwick Castle transforms its medieval grounds into a winter wonderland for all the family and celebrates its 40th anniversary this year with a Christmas Carols Concert on Saturday 17th December. Torch Lit tours of the grounds and festive banquets are just some of the festivities on offer and, for the children, Breakfast with Santa is perfect when you don’t want the bother of visiting busy shopping centre grottos. Festivities run throughout December.

Looking for an office party location with a difference?

The Ricoh Arena in Coventry opens its grand event halls to offer guests various zones of entertainment all under one roof. The Winter Wonderland parties include live music, dinner and drinks and interactive fun with roaming entertainers. Contact the venue for more details.

WORCESTERSHIRE Every year I have visited the beautiful village of Broadway for their late night shopping and markets at Christmas time. The quaint setting and welcoming atmosphere make this event a little bit magical. The arrival of Santa on his sleigh drawn by real reindeer is a treat for all the family and the many stores opening after hours include traditional sweet shops, art studios and craft shops. The experience made all the more festive with the sound of local carol singers in the cool open air. Take a trip to Broadway, on the border of the Cotswolds, on Friday 2nd December.

You can’t escape the tradition of going to a Panto with the little ones and this year there is a great choice of entertainment for all the family. Snow White and the Seven Dwarves will be showing at Redditch Palace Theatre and Beauty and the Beast will be running throughout the festive season at the Atrix in Bromsgrove.

I have become accustomed to ice skating in the open air around Christmas time, a tradition amongst friends. There is nothing more magical than an ice rink

December 2011 19

surrounded by twinkling lights and decorations under the night sky. For a romantic evening out or a fun trip for friends and family, Webb’s of Kidderminster have a purpose built Christmas Rink this year that is well worth a visit. Check their website for more details and opening times.

Worcester Christmas Fayre is the leading Victorian themed street market in the Midlands. Hundreds of stalls fill the atmospheric streets of Worcester’s historic heart with the colours, sounds and scents of Christmas.

From festive home decorations to traditional roast chestnuts - a wonderful range of merchandise is waiting to be discovered within several zones. With a local arts and crafts area, international area, festive gifts area and food court there’s something for everyone. The Victorian carousel is a must visit. Enjoy being whirled around to the sounds of traditional organ music. This four day event takes place from Thursday 1st December.

I don’t know about you, but my favourite thing about Christmas is the abundance of traditional mince pies, fruit cake and party canapés. Guilt free, until January at least, Festive food is an indulgent way to get in the spirit of Christmas. The Charity Festive Food Fayre in Evesham brings together all sorts of delights from classic Pork Pies and homemade chutneys to cakes and seasonal fruit and veg. Throughout the day, there will be demos from chefs and you can get creative with a masterclass in sugarcraft then decorate your own Christmas cake! Santa and his elves will be making a visit for the children and you will be doing your bit to support local charities! The fayre takes place on Saturday 3rd December in the heart of Evesham town centre. n Kerrie Dawson

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www.edgemagazine.org Puro by name

PURO BY NAME

Pure and Passionate by Nature Our hair is something we all take for granted; pulling it, tugging it, tearing it, burning it, something I know all too well. Once upon a time, my head was covered with a mass of thick natural curls, envied by all of my friends. Now however, due to an on-going battle with an eating disorder, my hair has diminished to less than a shadow of its former self; thin, damaged, lifeless and dry. Desperate to once again obtain my mass of flowing curls, I am open to literally anything that even hints at promising me stronger hair.

Puro Hair is definitely a new endeavour for me, a salon in the Birmingham City Centre that uses only natural and organic products (even the milk in their complimentary tea is organic). Already I knew this salon was passionate about its ethos as well as ensuring all customers receive a true Puro experience. Cool and modern furnishings with a refreshing lime green theme, the salon exudes style and has the ambience of a chic high end hairdressers. However Puro Hair is far from pretentious and you are made to feel special.

As I waited to be seen I was offered a drink and there were many magazines for me to choose from, yet I did not have time to indulge myself in ‘Marie Claire’ as I was seen to almost instantaneously, a refreshing change from a dull wait similar to those you experience at the dentist. Greeted by the Salon Director Lindsey, I explained the reasons why my hair has deteriorated

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and what I hope to get out of my salon visit. Although exposing a personal issue to a hairdresser, I trust their judgement and Lindsey told me the treatment she was going to use and why. I was given a stretch test on my hair, something I had never heard of before, which determines if your hair is lacking in protein; needless to say my hair stretched so far she could break it off as easy as breaking a glass! Due to the intense lack of protein I had a heavy duty power builder treatment, designed to nourish my hair with pure protein, filling in the gaps and holes if you like. I think my hair thought all its Christmas’s had come at once, especially as a trip to the hairdressers is somewhat of a luxury for me, resorting to cutting my own fringe in the bathroom sink or trusting my other half with a pair of scissors.

Led away from the main room, I entered into what felt like a Japanese-esque spa which had a relaxed and warm tone. It was in here where I received my deep cleanse wash and treatment. Talking all the way through my Puro experience and showing interest in my life is something that I really appreciated as the process of someone washing your hair in an awkward silence doesn’t feel comfortable, yet Lindsey was extremely partial to giving me the best advice she could; hair, believe it or not, requires a lot of scientific knowledge, which now thanks to Puro Hair, I have an insight to.

Complete with my bio-degradable towel and my

plastic cap protecting the treatment on my head I was left to simmer under a giant heater, free to read up on all of the organic and vegan products available to purchase in the salon. Although some might feel the products are pricey, the purity and quality of the products is something you cannot obtain from your average chemist and they last substantially longer meaning serious value for money. However, don’t think that Puro Hair conform to the cliché of pushy sales where you uncomfortably reject their offerings after a ten minute pitch about every product on the shelf.

Lindsey simply informed and recommended and the choice was completely up to me, but me being a lover of all things ‘toiletry’ I couldn’t resist buying a mini conditioner for a mere £2.50.

Leading from this talk of conditioner, I have been a naughty girl as of late as I don’t use conditioner after shampooing. Ssh, don’t tell anyone! Especially Lindsey at Puro Hair! Her passion for hair and for ensuring all customers know how to look after their hair once they leave the salon really shone through and I learnt a lot about the importance of conditioning. Following my fringe trim and my dead ends being chopped off I received a card outlining all of the products used on my hair during my visit and her professional advice regarding what I need to do regarding caring for my now extremely nourished hair.

Being made to feel important and significant from the moment you arrive to the second you leave is vital to Puro Hair, as well as ensuring all customers leave feeling that their hair has been revived and treated to the best natural products in the hair-care world. Despite the stereotyped image of organic produce being somewhat steep in the finance department, imagine the shock when the prices for the services are just as affordable as any other high street salon ranging from £20 to £48 for a ladies’ cut and blow-dry (obviously this is depending on the stylist.)

For anybody who cares about their hair of if you feel, like me, you’ve been neglecting your locks, Puro Hair will leave you feeling replenished and revitalised but more importantly, you’ll feel better in yourself for giving your tresses only the best food for hair; pure natural and organic. You will thank Puro Hair for their luxury services and your hair will be thanking you for giving it what it wants, so maybe, just maybe, your mane might start obeying you and you’ll never have that ‘out of place’ hair again! Call them on 0121 6161168 or visit at www.purohair.co.uk.

Danielle Montgomery

Puro Hair’s passion for organic products and the benefits they have upon your hair and their passion to ensure all customers receive the best experience you can endure at a salon is evident throughout my whole visit.

December 2011 23

www.edgemagazine.org Photos that should last

Photos that should last CREATE A FUN TIME Firstly, you know your children. Get the camera out when they are in a good mood, not when they’re tired or hungry. The photos that you’ll probably like best are those taken when the children are engaged in an activity, and being themselves, rather than standing stiffly in front of a favourite scene or colourful flowers. Is the photo of the children, or the flowers? Getting a good image of both is twice as hard! Instead, just concentrate on getting a good photo of the most important thing in the picture – your child.

Very young children especially will become bored after a few minutes, so have your camera all ready to go beforehand, and be patient. Have a break, let them wander off, give them your full attention while you take pictures and perhaps be ready with more toys to distract them with. You may have to follow a two-year old around.

With older children they can play in the garden, you can join in and have some fun yourself, and be ready as the moments come. Directing the children and requesting smiles usually results in a grimace or forced grin, so let them be themselves for a while, join in, and just keep taking the photos - after a while they’ll get bored of hamming it up.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR THROUGH THE VIEWFINDER Try to look at the whole of the viewfinder area and think of the whole picture, before you press the button. You’ll probably want the children filling a large part of the picture, not just a small part of it.

You can either move in closer yourself or use the zoom. Using the zoom setting will let you stand back a little from the children so they don’t notice you so much. Using the portrait mode will help to create a fuzzy, out of focus background.

But what’s in the background? Is it distracting?

The washing on the line or a bright red car won’t look so good. Maybe move around yourself to get a plainer background. With a baby, perhaps put the

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baby on a sofa to get a plainer background. Getting a close-up is another way of avoiding distracting backgrounds - fill most of the frame with your child’s head! An upright, vertical photo can fit the shape of people better.

SHOULD YOU USE FLASH? Flash is safe to use even with babies. However, if direct flash is the only source of light, as is normally the case indoors, then the photos can capture great expressions but will rarely have flattering lighting on the faces. Direct light from the flash on the camera often produces pasty-looking faces and the dreaded red-eye. It doesn’t help to make anyone look their best. If you can, my advice is to wait until you can go outdoors and use natural light instead, or turn the flash off and use the light from a window.

Alternatively, if you can, turn the flashgun so the light bounces off a nearby wall.

FIND THE SHADE It’s a lovely summers day and the sun is shining. But the best place for portraits is not in direct sun. That produces harsh shadows under the eyes and across the face, and the children may be squinting. Instead, get them to play in a shady spot. If there isn’t any shade, try shooting into the sun. You’ll get that lovely backlit look, but you do need to be careful with the exposure - you’ll need to increase the exposure over what the camera suggests, to avoid getting silhouettes. n Laurence Jones www.kidsnaturally.com

}

Think of the whole picture, before you press the button~

Laurence Jones is a leading children’s photographer based in Warwickshire, and travels throughout the Midlands and South.

You can see more of his work at www.kidsnaturally.com

December 2011 25

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www.edgemagazine.org Stan’s Cafe

STAN’S CAFE Not really a café

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December 2011

www.edgemagazine.org Stan’s Cafe

O

attractions of big city living is the easy access it gives us to a vast swirling mix of cultural activity. We have on our doorstep venues staging huge international names, others dependably delivering current hits and those trying to find next year’s big thing.

These venues are all easy to find but we also know that there must exist, close to hand, underground art, the avant-garde, the trendsetters and shape-shifters. ne of the great

The excitement of these underground events is also the thing that makes them difficult to find, they are marginal, they don’t have big advertising budgets, you need to know where to look, you need to be plugged into the right social networks, you need to read the right magazines…

If you travel to Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, the most well preserved and picturesque of the City’s central neighbourhoods, you can find smart new apartments springing up amongst the jewellery shops, workshops and bullion traders. It’s increasingly easy to find stylish bars, restaurants, music venues and thriving galleries, but to find what is arguably the city’s most significant underground theatre venue you need to be savvy, you need to turn the correct way off St. Paul’s Square, duck down the correct back street and ghost through the right black metal gates.

If you find yourself at the A. E. Harris metal pressing factory then you are in the right place, you have arrived - @ AE Harris. @ A E Harris is the name given to a theatre venue that sprang up within the factory when a rationalisation of operations created some spare floor space. For a secret venue @ A E Harris is surprisingly big. Hidden from the street by two steel roller-shutters it comprises five substantial linked rooms arranged around an open-air courtyard, which gives a fantastic view of the BT Tower.

Until recently the rooms were filled with metal working machinery and although they have been stripped of most

}

Arguably the city’s most significant underground theatre venue~

of their industrial accoutrements they remain rough and ready. There are no carpets, the chairs are an eclectic assortment of cast-offs, old sofas provide ‘chill out’ options and factory work benches serve as a bar. The décor @ A E Harris is strictly no-frills but the atmosphere is friendly and the art is unlike anything else you will find in the city.

James Yarker, director of Stan’s Cafe, the theatre company which run @ A E Harris, explains the venue’s mission: “we’re here for all those theatre projects that

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December 2011

are too big, too small, too short, too long, too messy, too marginal, too speculative or just too crazy to find a home in any of the city’s established venues”. A quick roll-call of recent events illustrates his point.

A performance installation using 112 tons of rice to represent the world’s population; a vast 24 hour Scalextric race complete with radio commentary; Kindle Theatre building vast towers of broken consumer junk as the setting for a banquet performance; Birmingham Opera staging Stravinsky’s The Wedding with a cast of nearly 200.

Since it opened in September 2008 the venue has become a magnet for professional artists, youth theatres and student groups keen to escape the restrictions of more conventional theatre venues. It hosts events for Fierce, Birmingham’s highly regarded festival of Performance Art and gave birth to the BE Festival which each year draws a dozen young theatre company’s from across Europe to flex their artistic muscles in a three day blitz of short shows.

Running run a venue of this size specialising in such alternative work has been challenging as Yarker explains “it’s pretty cash strapped at this level, but you don’t always need cash, Birmingham Opera Company paid by increasing capacity with new fire-exits and British Dance Edition sorted out our electrics. Our landlords are generous with their help and we try our best to make the space work for everyone, no matter what their circumstances”. The venue’s important role in the local arts scene has recently been acknowledged with support from the Arts Council.

When asked if public subsidy will mean the venue losing its underground status Yarker laughs “no, it should just help pay the rent and fix the boiler. We are going to be looking to keep things as varied, exciting and unexpected as we can.”

Before Christmas this means a student version of Hamlet, a concert by ambient pioneer Harold Budd with The Necks, the return of Baby Disco Yeah! In the new year Fierce! and BE Festivals return, Theatre Ark do The Tempest and Stan’s Cafe stage a coproduction with The REP. If that all sounds a bit conventional there are also three 12 minute long musicals about Table-Tennis, Athletics and Bell-ringing.

You’re never far from an exciting night out in a city like Birmingham, but many of the most distinctive and memorable events travel under the mainstream radar and things move fast at that level. To catch them keep your ear to the ground and close to the edge at www.edgemagazine. org. For events @ AE Harris log onto www.aeharrisvenue. co.uk n James Yarker www.stanscafe.co.uk

December 2011 31

Turning Your Dream Kitchen into Reality

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www.edgemagazine.org Marco Bicego

Marco Bicego Confetti Isola Necklace

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December 2011

MARCO BICEGO Launches in Birmingham

L

aunching exclusively in harvey Nichols in October, Marco Bicego offers a striking collection of contemporary and refined jewellery. Eminently wearable and with an unmistakable sophistication, the range will be available in the Midlands for the first time when it is unveiled at the Mailbox store.

Designed with the contemporary, cosmopolitan woman in mind and made entirely by hand in Italy, the collection boasts statement gold jewellery featuring precious stones and pearls.

Expert engraving techniques and a signature “hand-woven coil” design have become hallmarks, while an outstanding quality of workmanship is reflected throughout the range.

The family-run business dates back to 1958 when Giuseppe Bicego founded a small artisan shop in the town of Trissino in the Vicenza region of Italy. Now, more than 40 years later and with son Marco at the helm, the brand has become synonymous with innovation and luxury around the world.

Since heading up the business in 2000, Marco Bicego has won a whole host of major honours, including Town & Country Design Awards in Las Vegas and Retailer’s Choice in JQ’s Design Awards.

He was also been named Italian Designer of the Year at the UK Jewellery Awards.

“We are delighted to be welcoming such an amazing jewellery brand to the city for the first time,” explains Kevin Breese, general manager of Harvey Nichols Birmingham. “Marco Bicego jewellery is stocked in some of the most prestigious retailers in the world, including Saks Fifth Avenue and Damas Jewellery in Dubai.

“The very fact that Marco has chosen to come to Harvey Nichols Birmingham is testament to the city’s standing as one of the UK’s most important shopping destinations.” n

Marco Bicego Goa Black and White Diamond Ring

December 2011 35

www.edgemagazine.org Look fabulous

M

andrew rankin, aesthetic practitioner, Harley Street trainer and owner of Regenix Malvern talks about all of the non-surgical treatments now available at his clinic, and offers expert advice on antiwrinkle injections. r

Since opening his clinic in Malvern, back in 2006 Mr. Andrew Rankin has performed thousands of non-surgical treatments on clients throughout the county of Worcestershire and from much further afield. These procedures include:•

Anti-wrinkle injections, to prevent and eradicate wrinkles on the forehead, between the eyes and crowsfeet, also lower face injections to treat downturned expressions and gummy smiles

•

Dermal fillers, to plump out existent wrinkles, nose to mouth and marionette lines from the corners of the mouth. Mid face volumising (cheeks), nose and jawline reshaping.

•

Light, medium and deep chemical peels to treat skin damage, pigmentation and acne

•

Injections to treat hyperhidrosis excessive sweating and other medical conditions

•

Medical advice on skincare regimes and medical strength skincare products

As chief trainer at KT Cosmetic Institute in Harley Street, London, Andrew lectures and teaches hundreds of consultants, doctors, nurses and dentists from all over the UK and from around the world to perform non-surgical procedures which are now so popular with both male and female members of the general public. The range of clients is

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December 2011

fascinating from the rich and famous to members of the public from every walk of life.

Andrew comments, there has been a marked increase in the popularity of aesthetic treatments since the public have become more aware of the proven clinical safety of the products used and also the effectiveness of the results compared to other beauty treatments in the market place.

Our clients only have to return a couple of times a year to have their treatments repeated and therefore it is a very cost-effective option when weighed against the massive amount of money spent on some skincare products which produce minimal results if any.

A concern many clients express is a fear of looking like many people they see on the television where the work they have had is evident. Andrew believes that “there is no reason why any aesthetic treatment should not look natural. My aim for most of my clients is that after treatment people say to them ‘You look well’ rather than ‘What have you had done?’

At Regenix in Malvern both myself and my wife Angela spend a lot of time with our clients, talking through procedures and answering any questions they may have. There is still some stigma attached to the industry due to past media coverage, poor regulation and unfortunately some practitioners who forget that all of these treatments are medical procedures and should only be carried out by experienced and qualified members of the medical profession.

At Regenix we offer free consultations and aftercare treatment as a matter of course and every client has their medical history taken before going ahead.

The results that can be achieved in some instances are

life-changing as clients not only look younger and fresher but in turn they feel more confident from within. Lifting the face, plumping out the skin and eradicating the wrinkles can all be achieved relatively painlessly and in most instances there is no downtime so clients can continue with their normal daily routines.

When administering dermal fillers experienced practitioners will use a dental block as well as topical anaesthetic creams so that little if any discomfort is felt throughout the procedure.

Andrew finally comments, many of our clients are very organised when it comes to their enhancement procedures and know exactly when to book their appointments so that they are looking at their best particularly now that the festive season is upon us.

It is reassuring to know that Andrew’s expertise has evolved from the success and growth of Regenix over the last 5 years, and his lecturing and training in Harley Street over the last 4 years. He has liaised with leading practitioners as an expert panel member for aesthetic manufacturers and has been recently asked to be consultant editor for an aesthetic journal.

For a free consultation call on 01684 566789 or email angela@ regenix.co.uk We would like to offer a special 10% introductory discount to any new clients who have treatment before 31st December 2011.

Opening hours are Mon – Fri 10.00 am to 7.00pm (by appointment only) We would like to take this opportunity to wish all of our clients a Very Happy Christmas and New Year!!. n

LOOK FABULOUS

for Christmas and 2012

The Wedding of Sophie Jones & Luke Galliana

www.edgemagazine.org Look fabulous

THE BRIDE AND GROOM Luke is a successful music executive and Sophie is a model and business woman. They currently live in Kenilworth.

LUKE GALLIANA

PARENTS

BEST MAN

Sophie’s parents are Max and Maxine Jones of Bubbenhall. Max owns Robin Jones Estate Agents in Coventry and develops properties with his wife.

Luke is a songwriter and producer for signed artists, he also works with Ocean Media Group (Magazine Publishers and Event Management). As a vocalist, Luke was signed to Sony in 2001 and had a big hit with ‘To Die For’. At the moment he’s busy putting together a girl group for a record label amongst other projects.

Michael Adams, former professional footballer and entrepreneur.

GROOMS SUIT

The suit was provided by David Aitchison in Knowle

SOPHIE JONES

Sophie is a stylist, a talented business woman and a singer. She is currently running a new bridal shop in Stratford-uponAvon called “Shakespeare in Love”, Sophie is also a qualified beauty therapist and has her own hair extensions business. She was educated at Vocal Tech School of Music in London.

THE GOWN AND HAIR

Sophie’s dress was designed by Roland Joyce. Ian and Chantelle from “Just Ian” in Leamington Spa did Sophie’s Hair and her make-up was done by Justine Collins from “Pinkgloss”.

BRIDESMAIDS Gemma Jones, Rebecca Cudmore, Katy Hawley, Ruby Kibble

Luke’s parents are Trevor Raybould and Sandra Galeotto. Trevor is a teacher and author from Wolverhampton, Sandra used to be a dancer with Pan’s People and now lives in Quinton.

THE WEDDING VENUE

Stonleigh Church, Warwickshire. Apart from being set in beautiful surroundings, it has also been Sophie’s parish church from birth.

Nailcote Hall Hotel provided a perfect place for a wedding venue, set in breathtaking grounds with views over the rolling Warwickshire countryside and staff which will do anything to ensure the perfect day.

THE FLOWERS The flowers were provided by Wedding Wishes in Birmingham. Sophie and Luke chose classic lilies to give a simple but elegant theme to their wedding.

THE HONEYMOON Sophie and Luke spent two wonderful weeks on the fabulous Meeru Island resort in the Maldives.

BRIDESMAID’S DRESSES

The Bridesmaid’s dresses were provided by Coast

PRECIOUS MEMORIES Bride: “The first moment I walked out of the church as Mrs Galliana and heard the church bells ringing. I enjoyed seeing everyone for the first time as man and wife and seeing how happy everyone was”.

Groom: “The moment where we travelled in the Beauford Convertible together from the Church to Nailcote Hall as it was our first moment together as Man and Wife and one of the only times we could just enjoy the moment before all the events of the day happened”. n Jon Welsh - Photographer

40

December 2011

JON WELSH

J

welsh has been making images for 20 years. His images have been used for clients such as the Royal Navy and Playstation Games including a host of others such as Advertising Agencies, Design Groups, Fashion Houses, Editorial and Film Companies. His work has been exhibited in group and solo exhibitions over the last decade, showing in the New Walsall Art Gallery, Salisbury Art Centre and Saachi’s Gallery in London. on

Jon’s first book project “Have patience and Endure” consists of photographs taken between 2007 and 2011 in and around Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire. The publication aims to be a high quality coffee table photo book.

Jon states “as a photographer, I am always interested in growth, change, movement, colour and form. Initially the floods of the summer 2007 held an interest, whereupon the landscape changed for a short while. The transformation of Stratford also started in 2007, and I became captivated with the everyday changes around the town. Just over £100 million had been allocated to the project, changing the place I had always known as a quaint English tourist town, into a Twenty-First Century World Class town”.

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December 2011

Jon continued “Being inspired by the surroundings is part of the empathetic nature of being an artist. The feeling of the winter’s sun on your face as you take in the scene of rising mists and mute colours. To be able to capture the slices of

BEING INSPIRED BY THE SURROUNDINGS IS PART OF THE EMPATHETIC NATURE OF BEING AN ARTIST time within this book fills my soul and I wish to share my viewpoint - It is my way of connecting with the world’s beauty and its people. To translate feeling created by the written word or indeed a two dimensional visual experience, in this case using photography, is potentially very powerful”.

The town of Stratford-upon-Avon is well known for its most famous son, The Bard, William Shakespeare. As he grew up in this area, no doubt the scenery surrounding the town would have inspired and influenced him later on in his life, whilst penning his plays and sonnets. Jon notes that “the same scenery has touched and inspired myself to produce imagery”. n www.jonwelsh.com

For details about the book launch & Jon’s other work, take a look at his website.

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The dedicated, professional and friendly team at Rejuvenate @ HYPOXI will make your visit to our Beauty Lounge incredibly special. You can be assured of being looked after by the most highly qualified and experienced therapists who will always understand your priorities and concerns to ensure you enjoy a perfect treatment tailored especially for you, everytime.

Gift vouchers beautifully boxed and wrapped for that special someone Vouchers can be redeemed against any of our beautiful treatments or luxury products. Vouchers start from as little as £10 and can be purchased by just giving us a call or popping in.

NEW: Luxurious festive glitter nails (60mins )£39 Using Jessica geleration and our own special formula and creativity, you can enjoy the most amazing, dazzling, sparklicious, festive glitter nails that will last up to 3 weeks and protect your natural nail. Available in platinum, gold dust, golden red, black and pixie dust. They have to be seen to be believed!

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www.edgemagazine.org A great place to eat, drink and Bring your dog

A GREAT PLACE TO EAT, DRINK AND BRING YOUR DOG The Huff Cap, Great Alne

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December 2011

I

’m not an easy customer to satisfy, having eaten at some of the best restaurants around the world I have developed a good understanding about the dining experience and what a customer should expect on their night out. I am extremely fussy about my food, insisting that it is always cooked to perfection, or in the specific way I requested it. I am a complete pain in the backside about my drink, I like my ale fresh, my wine crisp and fruity or full bodied with a good bouquet. And I am particular about my cocktails, demanding that they are made the right way, using only the correct ingredients and served in the appropriate glass. So for a restaurant to get a positive review from me, it needs to meet certain standards and be able to maintain them consistently in order to get my repeat custom.

If you are looking for a restaurant which serves excellent food every time, has fantastic service, is beautifully decorated and won’t cost you the earth to eat there, why not head

down to the Huff Cap in Great Alne? Ever since finding the restaurant last year, I have been a frequent visitor to the Huff Cap and I would even go as far as saying it is probably one of my favourite places to eat in the whole of Warwickshire.

From the moment one arrives at the Huff Cap, you know you are in for a good time.

The restaurant has been beautifully decorated both inside and out. The covered decking area in front provides great protection from the elements and has been adorned with some exquisite wooden carvings dotted around the place. Walking through the main entrance, you find yourself standing in the bar area where a member of staff always welcomes you with a great big smile on their face. The first thing I always notice about the place is not the decor or the food going out to tables, but rather the humming noise of conversation emanating throughout the establishment – a sure sign that people are having a great time, you can actually feel the excitement buzzing

›

December 2011 51

www.edgemagazine.org A great place to eat, drink and Bring your dog

› through the air.

The Huff Cap is a busy restaurant, especially at the weekends, but they are always willing to accommodate customers who have not booked ahead. At the very worst, customers may be asked to wait at the bar until a table becomes available, but they always manage to fit you in somehow. The staff who work there are friendly, attentive and flexible, on the odd occasion when we have been the last people in the restaurant, we have been allowed to finish in our own time and never made to feel like we were inconveniencing anyone.

The menu at the Huff Cap is always interesting and fresh, with a good range of dishes to choose from, it is updated on a regular basis which means customers returning to the restaurant will always find something new to try. When it comes to the wine, although the selection is not vast, it is more than adequate for what was being served on the menu and are all priced exactly the same at ÂŁ16.50 a bottle.

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December 2011

Amongst my favourite starters which have been served on the menu are the soft shelled tempura crab with a chilli mango sauce and the pan seared scallops, crab & lemon beignets with lobster bisque. For the main course, it would have to be the pan fried calves liver served with a creamy mash or the fillet steak, which is served on its own little wooden board and accompanied by a miniature bucket of hand cut chips. I always like to have my steak bleu and hate it when restaurants are unable to get something as simple as a steak right, fortunately enough, the steak served at the Huff Cap is cooked to perfection and was one of the most tender pieces of meat I have had in a long time, I would even go as far as to put it on par with a steak you would be served at a restaurant like The Gaucho Grill in London.

For dessert, it has to be the chocolate tart served with a scoop of home-made thyme flavoured ice-cream. I must admit, I was a bit worried by my selection at first, fearing that the taste of the thyme ice-cream would

be too overpowering and end up tasting like potpourri. When the dish came out it was served on a little slate tile and when I tried it I immediately realised that a restaurant of this quality would not make such a mistake.

The ice-cream had a beautifully balanced flavour which accompanied the chocolate tart perfectly. The pastry of the tart was a little on the thick side for my liking, but I am not the greatest pastry fan in the world anyway so it did not matter. The filling on the other hand

was absolutely divine, both rich and dark with a great chocolaty taste.

On the whole, The Huff Cap is an excellent place to visit for any occasion, whether you fancy a quick bite to eat at lunchtime or a nice dinner with friends in the evening, I could not recommend it highly enough and I am sure you won’t be disappointed either. n Michael Abu-Zalaf Editor

December 2011 53

www.edgemagazine.org Food

FOOD!

Carrot Soup PREPARATION

Peel and slice the carrots lengthways, then peel and chop the onion into quarters putting both into the roasting tray.

Drizzle the contents of the roasting tray with olive oil, season with salt & pepper, then place in the oven at 200C gas mark 6 for around 40mins until the carrots and onions start to get a roasted look (it may be necessary to turn the carrots half way through cooking to ensure that they are evenly cooked on all sides).

Whilst the carrots are cooking in the oven prepare the potatoes and the toast off the coriander seeds.Peel the potatoes, place in a pan and bring to the boil until they are nice and soft.

Dry-roast the coriander seeds in a small frying pan over a medium heat, stirring and tossing them around for 1-2 minutes, or until they begin to look toasted and start to jump in the pan. Now tip them into a pestle and mortar and crush them coarsely.

When all the ingredients have finished cooking, melt the butter in a large saucepan add the crushed coriander seeds, the contents of the roasting tray and the potatoes. Next, add the stock and season with salt and pepper and bring everything up to the boil. Then reduce the heat to low and simmer for a further 15-20 minutes.

Leave the soup to cool a little, then you can liquidise the whole lot in batches (a large bowl to put each batch in is helpful here). After that, return the purée to the pan and stir in the chopped fresh coriander. Re-heat the soup, then taste to check the seasoning and serve in warmed bowls.

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December 2011

INGREDIENTS •

2kg Carrots

•

1kg Potato’s

•

2 Onions

•

100g Butter

•

Fresh Coriander & 1 tsp Dried Coriander Seeds

•

1 Litre of Chicken or Vegetable Stock

•

Salt and Pepper to taste (Serves 8—10 people)

Festive Memories

C

been the centrepiece of the festive period in our household, with the house beautifully decorated, surrounded by family and everyone in high spirits after receiving their gifts. It always brings back fond memories of my time growing up. Although, that is where the tradition ends I’m afraid. My mother has never been a fan of turkey, she always complains that she finds the meat too dry and there is always too much left over.

As a result, she refused to cook it and we never actually had the traditional festive feast, instead we were served host of other dishes ranging from fish to goose. hristmas dinner has always

Perhaps the most memorable year was the one when she decided to serve lobster. However, when the fish monger turned up with them, she was horrified to find that he brought her live ones to ensure they remained fresh. I think he may have been pulling her leg, but he instructed my mother to fill up the bathtub with cold water and add just enough salt to make it taste like sea water. Good as gold, she did as instructed, tasting the water bit by bit and even went to the shops to buy sea salt so the lobsters sitting in our tub did not feel any discomfort, she even named one Sammy. When it came to Christmas day the lobsters were still alive in the tub, my mother did not have the heart to drop them into the boiling water and relented. It took a further week before all the lobsters had passed away naturally, but they made a fantastic New Years day feast.

So, in honour of my mother, I have decided to bring you Gina’s top 5 alternative Christmas dinner suggestions, just in case you fancy something different this year.

1.

Roast Goose

2.

Honey Roasted Christmas Ham

3.

Roast Pheasant

4.

Lobster (here’s to you Sammy)

5.

Rib of beef

December 2011 55

www.edgemagazine.org “Stellar” Wine

“STELLAR” WINE? D

daily horoscope and wonder if you were born under the wrong star sign?

Or perhaps it’s uncannily accurate? Or perhaps you don’t give a hoot! Well now you can buy wine that has been made by the stars – not Brad Pitt or Nicole Kidman – but those celestial objects in the sky. o you read your

You may have seen Chateau Monty on Channel 4, and if so, you’ll know that you have to perform vineyard tasks, according to the phases of the Sun, Moon, and planets.

Following these cosmic cycles is all part of being biodynamic – that’s the term used for these far sighted (in more ways than one!) people.

Monty Waldin (he’s the chap from Chateau Monty) along with his other biodynamic colleagues see the vineyard as a living organism that can be maintained in a self sustaining way. What does this mean? Well it’s about being organic with astrology wrapped around the whole thing. Here’s an example, of what is required when you prepare a biodynamic

FIND SOME COW DUNG FROM A NEARBY FRIENDLY ORGANIC FARM...

1.

Put it into a cow’s horn

2.

Bury the cow horn for 6 months

3.

Retrieve and put the now mature dung in a bucket and mix with water – but, and this is important, you must stir the water in a particular way.

First one direction and then the other so the cosmic and earthly rhythms that result from the water being in chaos are captured into what is being stirred.

4.

Wait for the moon to be in Taurus, Virgo or Capricorn - all Earth signs of course!

5.

Spray your vines

spray for your vineyard.

It all started back in 1924, when Rudolf Steiner, an Austrian philosopher delivered a series of lectures about the principles of life as a pattern of lunar and cosmic rhythms.

In the case of a vineyard it is seen a closed self sustaining environment; in effect an entire living system in its own right.

And it doesn’t stop in the vineyard – you follow the same guidelines when producing the wine. For example, bottling the wine when the sun is in Leo helps, because the fruit in the wine is at its most concentrated, so sealing with a cork (or screw cap) at this time locks in the best flavours.

Sound too far fetched? Well some top wine makers are becoming biodynamic, and it’s a pretty tough journey. First you have to become organic and this in itself is no easy task, taking over 3 years. After that, as you might notice, the challenges become even more bizarre.

HEY PRESTO… HEALTHIER, STRONGER, VINES ENSUE.

Does the wine taste better? – Well that’s a matter of opinion – and, as with all things in the wine world, there are plenty of views going around. My take? Wine producers that follow biodynamic principles certainly care about the product they are making, and if nothing else the care and attention they show translates into a higher quality wine that does reward the efforts put in.

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The care and attention they show translates into a higher quality wine~

And it doesn’t end there. Biodynamics also comes into play when you’re drinking wine.

There are four different kinds of day – fruit, flower, leaf and root – that determine how good the wine is going to taste, irrespective of how it made, so this also includes the vast majority on non biodynamic wines. It seems that our major supermarkets such as Marks & Spencer and Waitrose take this Biodynamic calendar into account when tasting wines and there are many wine professionals that really believe it makes a difference. By the way, fruit is good, root is bad.

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December 2011

So is it important which day you drink your wine? Well barometric pressure and moon phases well may have an impact, but many other aspects will also influence how the wine tastes. Temperature, how well you feel, food, setting/environment, company, and your state of mind will also have an impact. So for me, everyday is a wine day, too many wines too few days.

One of the biggest exponents of biodynamic viticulture was Didier Dagueneau who died prematurely last year in a flying accident. He was arguably the greatest wine producer in the Loire Valley making superb Pouilly Fume from the Sauvignon Blanc grape.

Expensive? Yes – but if you get the chance do try some.

Birmingham Wine School is an independent wine education company that offers fun informal wine tasting events and Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) courses, both in Birmingham and Milton Keynes city centres. For more information please contact Rob Price on 0121 270 7359, or visit www.birminghamwineschool. com n Rob Price

• All our chocolates and truffles are hand made by us, using the finest Belgium chocolate.

• Chocolates may be purchased individually or placed in a presentation gift box of your choice.

• Unique ideas for Christmas. Orders now been taken

Chocolate Deli Coffee and Patisserie is opening at 53 New Street Worcester at the end of November.

Chocolate Deli will remain open as usual at the Jinney Ring Craft Centre

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11/11/11

22:07

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So many choices...

If you are considering facial rejuvenation ready for the party season, you will have specific ideas about how you would like your face to look. There are many treatments available to help find the look you want and many different places that will provide the treatments available.

One of the most frequent facial rejuvenation treatments requested, is treating wrinkles. By identifying the cause and depth of these wrinkles we can then begin to help you make the most informed decision on how to treat them and maintain the desired effect.

Fine lines and wrinkles are part of the natural ageing process, sometimes helped along the way by our genetic make up and the lifestyle we have led. These lines can be minimised both surgically and nonsurgically.

Surgical options would be a facelift and/or fat transfer to these areas, but those wanting a less radical approach, dermal fillers, wrinkle relaxing injections, microdermabrasion or dermaroller, may be just the thing.

Dermal fillers are generally made of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance, which is a very safe and effective way of helping to smooth lines and wrinkles and providing fullness (ie to the lips or cheeks). The results of dermal fillers are instant and there should be very little downtime.

Wrinkle treatment by injections are generally used for the fine frown lines

that appear between the eyebrows. These injections work by reducing the muscle activity therefore preventing the muscles from contracting. This treatment takes in the region of 7 to 10 days to be effective.

BotoxÂŽ can also be used as an effective treatment for the treatment of underarm sweating and should be effective for about 6 months.

Skin peels can be used to treat fine lines and wrinkles and are available in different strengths depending on your needs and the results you required. They work by removing the epidermis of your skin and stimulating the dermis to replace the lost cells with new cells creating a tighter, smoother look. Skin peels can also be used for the treatment of pigment irregularities and acne scarring.

Microdermabrasion is a method of controlled exfoliation which involves giving a controlled flow of salt crystals onto the skin revealing, fresher new cells. It is used to treat fine lines and wrinkles, acne prone skin and hyperpigmentation.

Dermaroller therapy involves rolling tiny needles of the skin surface to stimulating the skin to repair itself, creating a tighter smoother appearance to the skin.

It is important to remember that before undergoing any procedure that you are happy and secure in your knowledge that the professional undertaking your treatment has the professional expertise to carry it out and that they have your best interests at heart.

Sarah Maddern is the Cosmetic Surgery Manager at the Spire South Bank Hospital in Worcester.

Sarah has a wealth of experience of cosmetic, vascular and bariatric surgery after previously working as the Burns and Plastic Surgery Lead Nurse at the Radcliffe Infirmary in Oxford and until recently was managing a busy surgical and non-surgical cosmetic practice in Cheltenham.

Sarah has over 20 years’ experience as a specialist plastic and reconstructive nurse and is available to speak to patients on the telephone or by booking an appointment.

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03/11/2011 12:50:48

www.edgemagazine.org a national charging infrastructure

A NATIONAL CHARGING INFRASTRUCTURE – how the Midlands is becoming Plugged-In

60

December 2011

T

he government’s new strategy for electric vehicle infrastructure has focused attention on those Plugged-in Places across the UK that are leading the roll-out of a national charging infrastructure for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles.

THE MIDLANDS PROJECT The Midlands Plugged-in Places project was jointly developed by Cenex, the UK’s first Centre of Excellence for low carbon vehicle technologies, and Central Technology Belt. Heading a consortium of over 50 Midlands businesses, universities and local authorities, up to £2.9 million of Government funding is supporting the installation of more than 1,500 charge posts across the East and West Midlands and over 1,000 charge points in domestic homes.

Local Authorities have long been committed to cutting carbon emissions and improving air quality, with city authorities showing leadership in introducing plug-in vehicles into their fleets and installing electric vehicle charge points.

The consortium has set a challenging but achievable target of 1,000 plug-in vehicles being registered in the Midlands, the UK’s largest car buying region, by 31st March 2012.

CHARGING POINTS Recognising that charging posts are needed where people commute to and not from, the bulk of the proposed installations focus on car parks and leisure facilities plus transport stations and Park & Ride schemes to extend commuting range. Consortium partners will also work with Motorway Service Area Operators to help cater for longer distance commuters and to facilitate interregional EV travel.

LEARNING FROM THE PROJECT The Midlands project has been designed to maximise learning opportunities and allow comparison of best practice with other Plugged-In Places to inform the national picture. While the deployment of charge posts in the region focuses on city centres and transport hubs, the Worcester deployment is dispersed to help understand plug-in vehicle use in rural settings, and the Corby deployment provides an exemplar for new town developments.

The Midlands project includes extensive data collection and analysis by research institutes in the region, to help understand user behaviour. The findings are expected to inform the business models of companies investing in new products and services associated with the plug-in vehicle revolution.

Information about driver behaviour and charge point use will be central to understanding local grid impacts, as well as the benefits of linking electric vehicle use with smart grids fed with renewable electricity from wind turbines and solar cells.

EV OPPORTUNITIES BEING SCOPED IN REGION In addition to recruiting new hosts for charge posts, the project team is actively recruiting public and private fleet operators.

At the Priors Hall Park housing development in Corby, Bela Developments plans to offer plug-in vehicles as an option for new home purchasers. Corby Borough Council, a key supporter of this project, is installing charge posts in the town centre’s main amenities to support those who opt into the scheme.

The motor industry is committed to the Midlands project, with Nissan, Peugeot, Mitsubishi and Smart dealerships selling electric vehicles. Jaguar Landrover, SAIC, TATA and Chinese car company Changan, which has set up

›

December 2011 61

www.edgemagazine.org Plug-in car grant

› an R&D facility on the Nottingham University Campus, are all conducting R&D to help deliver the next generation of plug-in vehicles.

MIDLANDS’ RESPONSE TO THE GOVERNMENT’S STRATEGY Commenting on the Government’s updated infrastructure strategy, Cenex CEO Robert Evans noted “the rationale for charge post locations in the new strategy is entirely consistent with that underpinning the Midlands project. Both strategies identify the need to prioritise publicly accessible infrastructure located where EV motorists travel to. Furthermore, the research and innovation agenda of the Midlands project is helping to show that electrification of road transport can be a catalyst for job creation and economic growth associated with a green economy.” n Mick Barclei-Smythe PiP Programme Manager, Cenex

M

PLUG-IN CAR GRANT

otorists purchasing a qualifying ultra-low emission car can receive a grant of 25 per cent towards the cost of the vehicle, up to a maximum of £5,000. The 2010 Spending Review confirmed that Government has made provision to support the Plug-in Car Grant for the life of this Parliament.

The Government is adopting a ‘technology neutral’ approach to reducing emissions from transport.

This means that cars with tailpipe emissions of 75/km or less, including electric, plug-in hybrid and hydrogen-fuelled cars are all potentially eligible for the subsidy. However, consumers will find that hydrogen-vehicles are, as yet, less available on the open market than electric and plug-In hybrid options.

To ensure continued value for money for the taxpayer, the scheme, and the level of subsidy provided, will be regularly reviewed. The first review of the Plug-In Car Grant will take place in early 2012.

The Plug-In Car Grant has been designed to help make the whole-life costs of a qualifying car more comparable with petrol or diesel equivalents. Over time, as manufacturers begin to make these cars in greater volumes, the costs of production should begin to fall. This will help to make an ultra-low carbon car a realistic option for anyone looking to buy a car.

Both private consumers and businesses can benefit from the Plug-In Car Grant when purchasing a qualifying ultra-low emission car and registering it in the UK. n 62

December 2011

Edge half page CLEANSE A GUTTER:Layout 1

An Englishman’s home is his castle – so look after it.

For most people, a property represents the largest single investment that they will make during the course of their lives. In order to protect that investment, regular upkeep and maintenance is required to prevent deterioration of the property both inside and out. However, recent figures indicate that the majority of UK homeowners are neglecting to undertake the necessary maintenance, especially to the exterior, resulting in deterioration of the structure and damage being caused to the property which could easily be avoided.

Research shows that amongst the most common problems is water damage, generally caused by the failure to undertake the proper maintenance.

“Maintenance is often overlooked because people prefer to spend money on the inside of their home” says Carl Sabin, Director of Bromsgrove based company Cleanse A Drive. “But there’s no point in buying beautiful objects for your home if a few months later a leak caused by a faulty gutter means you have to replace them”. Recent figures from the UK insurance industry show a sharp rise in the number of claims being denied by insurance companies, because homeowners have not undertaken the necessary maintenance required of them.

One reason homeowners are neglecting to protect their investment is lack of time, with increasingly busy lives people are finding that there are just not enough hours in the day to do all the jobs around the house. Therefore, the best solution is to let someone else take care of it for you. Cleanse A Drive is a local company which specialises in professional exterior cleaning for domestic and commercial purposes, with over 10 years experience and more than 3000 highly satisfied customers they have built an enviable reputation for offering a first class, value for money service.

So if you want to protect the time and money you have invested in your property, why not give the professionals a call. For more information contact Cleanse A Drive direct on freephone 0800 389 3521 or visit www.cleans-a-drive.co.uk

3/11/11

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December 2011 63

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www.edgemagazine.org What's in your pocket

WHAT'S IN YOUR POCKET HTC 7 PRO Due to be launched into the UK market in February next year, the HTC 7 Pro promises to be a great little number. Designed primarily as a business handheld with a full QWERTY keyboard and a 3.6inch touch screen, the HTC 7 Pro is ideal to perform a variety of functions. The phone uses the latest Windows software and has an impressive 1GHz Qualcomm processor, meaning you will have plenty of power to perform any task you need quickly and effortlessly. It has 578 MB of RAM, a 5 mega pixel camera with automatic flash, built in WIFI, Blue tooth and 3G. Despite having 8GB of on board memory, the inability to expand this may cause a problem for users who need that little bit of extra capacity. Apart from this minor flaw, the HTC 7 Pro looks to become a very popular model going forward.

HTC CHACHA Already on the market, the HTC ChaCha is designed to be used primarily as a social media handset, with a dedicated Facebook button conveniently placed on the front of the phone to help you update your status instantly. The ChaCha uses the latest Android Gingerbread software and comes with a 2.6 inch touch

66

December 2011

screen. Powered by an 800MHz processor, it has plenty of power to undertake many tasks at once and the 5 mega pixel camera with built in flash takes excellent quality pictures. Like the 7 Pro, the ChaCha comes with built in WIFI, Blue tooth, QWERTY Keyboard and 512MB of memory, but has the added benefit of a microSD expansion slot meaning that you can fit whatever size card you want to increase capacity. With an estimated battery life of 640 hours standby time the ChaCha is one of the most efficient phones on the market, giving you the flexibility to take the phone away for long weekends without worrying about losing touch with your friends.

BLACKBERRY BOLD 9900 The new BlackBerry Bold 9900 is the latest incarnation of the iconic RIM headset popular the world over, but unlike previous models, this one comes with a 2.8 inch Liquid Graphics touch screen display.

With a super fast 1.2GHz processor the Bold 9900 provides smooth and speedy performance for a BlackBerry, coupled with the new BlackBerry 7 software it promises to speed up your web browsing experience by as much as 40%. Another one of the new features introduced on this latest phone is the voice activated universal search function, enabling you to quickly search the phone or the web simply by issuing a vocal command. RIM have also managed to reduce the thickness of the 9900 to a mere 10.5mm, without reducing the impressive battery life that previous models were famous for. With all the latest additions introduced to the BlackBerry Bold 9900, it is ensured to remain a favourite tool for business people on the go.

BLACKBERRY TORCH 9860 For those readers who prefer using a touch screen phones rather than ones with keypad, why not check out the new BlackBerry Torch 9860. It may surprise some of you who thought BlackBerry only made handsets featuring ergonomically designed QWERTY keyboards, but this new offering from RIM has ditched the keyboard all together. Keyboard aside, the new handset comes with a 3.7 inch screen and is powered by the same 1.2GHz processor used in the Bold - the battery life is similarly impressive. The 5 mega pixel camera can take great pictures and has the ability to record up to 720p HD video in amazing quality. The BlackBerry 7 software makes the phone easy to use and very responsive, it has different feel to the previous operating systems but still contains the old favourites such as Messenger for those die hard fans. It is clear that the new keyboard-less offering by RIM is attempting to appeal to iPhone and HTC users, but by removing all those lovely QWERTY keys it is in danger of alienating its core fan base.

IPHONE 4S At first glance, you could be forgiven for confusing the 4S with its predecessor, the iPhone 4. But luckily, that is where the similarities end, the 4S is a completely different beast to any other iPhone that came before it. Let’s look at the hardware improvements to start. The new 4S is powered

by Apple’s A5 dual-core processor, the same one that can be found in the iPad 2, giving the phone a massive seven times more processing power and increased battery life. Another feature that has been upgraded is the camera; it now sports an impressive 8mp front facing camera which can take great photos and shoots full 1080p HD video. The greatest improvements, however, are on the software side. The 4S comes with the new iOS 5, the latest incarnation of Apple’s mobile operating system.

Featuring a clever little gadget called SiRi, a voice activated assistant which can follow orders and write messages dictated to it. The inclusion of iCloud will also give 4S users more freedom, finally releasing the iPhone from the clutches of its desktop software.

Like all the iPhone’s that came before it, the 4S looks likely to become as popular as its predecessors. n

Michael Abu-Zalaf Editor

December 2011 67

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No other watch is engineered quite like a Rolex. The Explorer II, built to meet the demands of professionals, is the successor to the original Explorer that accompanied Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay to the summit of Mount Everest. It features an additional hand that is invaluable to speleologists and polar explorers as it allows them to distinguish day from night. The 40 mm Explorer II is exclusively available in steel.

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www.edgemagazine.org in santa's sack this christmas

IN SANTA'S SACK THIS CHRISTMAS

It’s that time of the year again; the Christmas adverts are beginning to roll out across television, and shops are advertising their Seasonal offers. So, in this hectic life with barely a minute to spare, what do you get for your loved ones this Christmas? Technology is advancing so fast, that the already audacious job of choosing the right present becomes substantially more difficult.

Fear not. We have a list below of Christmas 2011’s 10 most desirable gadgets, guaranteed to put smiles on faces:

Ó

Phone 4S The latest rendition of the biggest-selling

smartphone is upon us. Offering a few upgrades to the popular iPhone 4, the 4S includes an 8MP camera, 1080P video recording, a faster processor and a new virtual assistant by the glamorous name of SiRi.

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Orthopaedic Memory Dog Bed We all know somebody who puts there dog before themselves.

Welcome to perhaps the strangest addition to the 2011 gadget list.

Ñ

COBRA Optics 1304 Storm Pro Night Vision Goggles With cold, dark winter nights

upon us, and the anticipated coldest winter for decades, what could be better than a set of SAS Night Vision Goggles to see you home safely for Christmas!

Ð

Monster Beats Headphones Inspired by Dr. Dre’s

vision of audio clarity, the Monster Beats headphones are designed for you to hear music as the artist intended.

Ï

Twinkle Umbrella The Twinkle umbrella has

fibre-optic stars that light up when the button is pressed. No need to feel glum in the rain this winter, cheer yourself and everyone around you up with a host of colourful, pretty stars!

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December 2011

Î

Dyson Hot Ever thought of a heater or a fan as a work of art? Well, Mr Dyson’s heater is aiming to change that opinion.

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Silverback Bike Driving your car to work over the option of cycling has

one primary advantage amongst businessmen and women – you can charge your smartphone or tablet whilst on the move. Now, however, you can do the same on a bicycle!

Ì

Amazon Kindle Fire Although not yet available in the

UK (our American friends are lucky to have this in time for Christmas!), it is exciting news for us all nonetheless!

Ë

VTech InnoTab

Introducing a gadget for the kids now. Your tablet computer may well be useful for emails and presentations, and that off-peak web browsing; but what if I was to tell you that your child could be benefiting from their own tablet computer right now?

Ê

Panasonic VIERA 65-Inch Internet TV

A few years back you’d have been lucky to buy a thin LCD television for reasonable money. If anything, this TV shows just how much technology has advanced.

The Panasonic VIERA TXP65VT30 is as sleek as it is powerful, and with an endless list of features, it will easily become the centrepiece of your home media setup.

Boasting Full-HD, Internet Services, 600HZ refresh rate, 3D capabilities, Freeview HD and FreeSat HD as well as built in Wi-Fi, it really is one of the market-leading televisions of the moment.

Lost the remote for the TV? Never mind! You can use the Panasonic App on your iPhone, iPod or iPad to connect to the TV and fully control it.

At a humongous 65 inches, the cinema will never need to be visited again. Now you just have to find a wall to mount this graceful giant!

Adam Church-Milward

December 2011 71

www.edgemagazine.org Winter Garden

WINTER GARDEN What to plant for next year

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fter the flowers finished, all the leaves dropped off, the lawn disappeared under dead foliage and your garden’s reduced to a bunch of twigs. In protest, you’ve hung up your trowel and retreated to the sofa with a good book, until next Spring. Does that sum up your feelings about your winter garden? Well hold it right there - put those wellies back on! It’s time to get cracking and what you need is some stem fever Big and bold explosive drifts of Cornus alba sibirica ‘Westonbirt’; its flaming autumn foliage giving way to vertical scarlet stems. You would not look twice at this dogwood on your spring trip to the nursery, but after a hard November frost, it moves to centre stage and sings the Hallelujah chorus. Under plant with drifts of the apple green Hart’s Tongue fern Asplenium scolopendrium (evergreen) or team it up with a group of the zingy lime-green stemmed Cornus sericea ‘Flaviramea.’

An equally vibrant combination can be achieved with Cornus sanguinea ‘Midwinter Fire’ - brilliant yellow orange stems suffused with flame pink and vermilion planted alongside the stunning assassin black stems of Cornus alba ‘Kesselringii ‘ and backed by a stand of chalky white tree trunks from Betula utilis ‘Grayswood Ghost’.

All very dramatic when growing alongside water, with the fiery colours appearing as mirror images on your frosty lake or pond. Given a little more space and a moist garden border, you could invest in a few willow varieties.

Vibrant Salix alba var. ‘vitellina’ with stems of egg yolk yellow suffused with warm orange tones and the scarlet stems of Salix alba ‘Britzensis’; like dancing flames in the winter sun. There is also the über stylish black pussy or Mulberry willow Salix gracilistyla ‘Melanostachys’ from Japan. Much sought after by flower arrangers and no wonder. The young stems are silky-hairy, turn red for winter and are topped with copper bronze buds, which burst to reveal purple black catkins. If that was not enough, these then open in spring producing bright orange-red anthers (which turn yellow with age), before the glossy green leaves unfurl. This large shrub can be contained in a small garden by pruning down to 30 cm (1 ft) above ground every spring.

But if you are more of a subtle moody blues style of gardener and find the exuberant display above too exhausting, check out the elegant Salix acutifolia ‘Blue Streak’; a blue-blooded willow, with a beautiful powder white bloom adorning her graceful dark indigo stems. Equally striking are the whitewashed stems of the ghost bramble Rubus cockburnianus, which are very effective when displayed against the dark green backdrop of a yew hedge and under planted with Helleborus orientalis in plummy shades of pink and purple. All of these shrubs are easy to grow and benefit from being cut down almost to ground level at the beginning of Spring. So there you have it. No excuses for hibernating on the couch; go and seek out some winter stems and create a vibrant horticultural firework display in your garden this winter. Enjoy ! n Hilary Collins Designer and Horticultural Consultant for Envisage...gardens by design www.envisage-gardens.co.uk

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www.edgemagazine.org Pension planning

PENSION PLANNING drawdown versus annuities

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The new pension rules allow you to maintain a portfolio of investments in your pension fund throughout your life as an alternative to securing an income with an annuity. This is an important but also difficult choice. Broadly, the advantages and disadvantages of each approach are as set out in the table.

CONVENTIONAL ANNUITIES CAPPED OR FLEXIBLE DRAWDOWN Our recommendations on this issue will reflect our estimation of your capacity for risk. If you have substantial retirement income from other sources, then you have greater capacity to cope with a reduction in income from a drawdown portfolio. But if you will be wholly dependent on the income from one pension fund, you might not be able to tolerate any reduction in your income, in which case drawdown would probably be too risky for you.

We know many people are very concerned about the possible impact of inflation on a fixed income, and rightly so. If you are retiring at age 65, there is a one in four chance that you or your spouse will live to age 100 (source: Axa).

Over that term of 35 years even a 2% inflation rate will halve the purchasing power of a fixed income – and few people will be able to cope with that. But if you want to buy an annuity that is guaranteed to keep pace with inflation, the starting level of income at age 65 is pitifully low – about 3-3.5% (where the pension includes a 50% spouse’s residual income).

For many people, we believe the answer will be in the form of a ‘third way’ annuity. These are neither conventional annuities nor pure investment products, but combine some characteristics of both. One scheme, for example, provides a ‘ratchet’ mechanism that increases your level of income every few years if the value of stockmarket investments has risen, but still keeps the income the same even if markets have fallen. Another uses the established with-profits mechanism to smooth investment returns and convert a long-term rise in investment values into a rising income.

ADVANTAGES •

Certainty of income for life Flexibility of income

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Residual income for spouse Scope for income to increase

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No investment risk Residual capital for heirs

•

Disadvantages

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Fixed annuities very vulnerable Capital at risk in investments to inflation

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No flexibility of income

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Too high an income withdrawal rate can erode capital

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No residual capital Tax on residual capital

Each scheme has its own merits and drawbacks, and as you approach the time when you need to make a decision, it is important to set aside time to review these options and discuss them in detail with your adviser. It is, after all, the longest-term investment decision you are ever likely to make. n Past performance is not necessarily a guide to the future and the value of investments can go down as well as up.

You might not get back the full amount invested particularly if an encashment is made in the early years.

www.edgemagazine.org Use your pension fund

USE YOUR PENSION FUND to reduce inheritance tax

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mong the last budget’s changes to the rules on pensions was a significant change in the way inheritance tax applies to capital remaining in a pension fund on death. This means some people may be able to rearrange their assets and reduce their liability to inheritance tax.

drawdown, you are allowed to take as much out of your pension fund each year as you want, and can also vary your withdrawals each year. So you could treat your pension fund as a reserve for long-term care and give away capital you might otherwise have used for this purpose.

THE NEW RULE IS

EXAMPLE

After you have started to draw benefits from your fund, or after age 75 (whichever is earlier), a tax charge of 55% will apply to any capital remaining in your pension fund. Inheritance tax will not apply.

John is 66 and has £250,000 in his SIPP pension fund, but does not actually need an income from it because he has a substantial income from his occupational pension scheme. He decides to use the SIPP as a reserve for long-term care, and will use flexible drawdown to meet care bills. He now makes lifetime gifts of £250,000 to his two children, and is almost certain to survive the 7 years necessary for these to be free of tax, thus reducing the inheritance tax bill on his estate by £100,000. n

Just to remind you, under the old rules, you had to convert any remaining capital into an annuity at age 75 so for most people, there wasn’t any capital in their fund at death, just as there won’t be in future if you buy an annuity.

But since ‘forced annuitisation’ has been abolished and the new rules permit you to run an investment portfolio using ‘capped drawdown’ or ‘flexible drawdown’ up to your death, in future many more people will die with some capital remaining in their fund.

The tax charge of 55% may seem steep, but it roughly balances out the advantage of 40% tax relief on contributions plus tax-free status for the investments within the fund until benefits are drawn.

Moreover, the capital in the pension fund will not form part of your estate for inheritance tax purposes.

Take these rules together and there is scope for some people to pass more capital on to their heirs earlier in life – and any gifts made at least 7 years before your death simply vanish from your taxable estate.

The reason many people hold onto more capital than they actually need later in life is often that they need a reserve for the possible costs of long-term care. But if your income is high enough for you to qualify for flexible

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Take control of your pension Many old-fashioned pension savings plans confine your cash to a few dull managed funds. Let us tell you about today’s plans that give you control over your fund and a wider choice of investments that could see you earning much higher returns for your retirement fund.

Churchill Investments offers independent advice on savings, protection and investment.

Modern methods, traditional values.

01934 844444

info@churchillinvestments.co.uk www.churchill.uk.net Churchill Investments plc is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority

December 2011 77

www.edgemagazine.org Silly Season Surveys

SILLY SEASON SURVEYS Facts you don't need to care about It’s the silly season again, and here to prove it is a sample of recent surveys about people and money.

A third of pet owners plan to leave at least £10,000 to their pet in their will. According to insurers More Than, half of pet owners keep their intentions secret from their own families - and if you were among the 21% of pet owners who intend to leave their home to their pet rather than to their family, you can understand why this might be a good idea. Fortunately for the cause of common sense, it looks as if the survey on which these figures are based measured intentions rather than actions.

Would it surprise you to know that houses in National Parks cost

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more than homes elsewhere?

Halifax felt it worth doing research into the premium you have to pay to live in a beauty spot. While the New Forest comes out as the most expensive bit of countryside to live in, it’s the Lake District where the premium compared with the surrounding area is highest. A cottage in Wordsworth country costs about three times a similar property outside the park.

The national average for the park premium is a cool £100,000. Price comparison website confused.com, creator of those noisily confusing TV ads, has discovered that a quarter of motorists have given their car a name, the most popular being Charlie and Ruby. A third of

motorists confess to talking to their cars, probably because they don’t answer back. Apparently Lady Gaga’s name for her Rolls Royce is Bloody Mary. Take it as red.

Some two and a half million Britons don’t own a dog but pretend that they do in order to deter burglars. Insurer e-sure says they put up notices about their phantom hounds and leave dog bowls visible, but doesn’t say whether the strategy is as effective as these people believe. One in ten people get their neighbour to move their car or open and close curtains while they’re on holiday, and half use light timers, in other moves to deter thieves. n

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www.edgemagazine.org in your county

IN YOUR COUNTY Worcestershire

BALL RAISES MORE THAN £20,000 FOR CHARITY Glamour was definitely top of the agenda at the Harrison Clark James Bond-themed ball in support of the Royal British Legion, who this year celebrate their 90th anniversary. The timing of the event, held the evening before Remembrance Sunday, was especially poignant and the glittering affair raised over £20,000.

Hosted at the Hatherley Manor hotel in Gloucestershire, the 300 guests began their evening in style when they were greeted on arrival by the Vegas Showgirls who flanked an Aston Martin, kindly loaned by Broughtons of Cheltenham.

Jonathan Brew, senior partner at Harrison Clark, said 'In these difficult economic times, it is extremely heart-warming to note the wonderful generosity of our clients and friends on behalf of this vitally important charity. We would like to thank all those who contributed to the evening – our sponsors Intelecomm, Holywell Spring Water and Anja Potze jewellery, as well as all those who contributed prizes – and of course, our guests for their whole-hearted participation in this highly successful event'.

LOCAL BUSINESS GROWS FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH. Local business woman Dianne Malanaphy and her colleagues recently celebrated the launch of their new venture, Rejuvenate @ Hypoxi in Kidderminster. Since opening in September 2010, the business has been growing from strength to strength and in this latest venture, the girls at Hypoxi have expanded their premises to incorporate a stylish new beauty parlour.

Dianne and her colleagues celebrated the night in style, joined by their many clients, friends and family. “I would like to thank everyone who came along and made the evening such a great success” said Dianne, who is eagerly looking forward to seeing the next stage of her business flourish, “but I must also say a special thank you to my team, without their help this could not have been possible”. With special introductory rates being offered, the beauty salon is certain to become the place to go to go this party season.

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HAYWARD WRIGHT ACCOUNTANTS HAVE OPENED A NEW OFFICE IN WORCESTER CITY CENTRE. Hayward Wright has worked hard to develop a firm that focuses on service and added value to their clients. The success that they have gained from this unique approach to accountancy has meant that due to the increased business being generated particularly from Worcester that the firm have expanding their practice with new offices in Worcester. The launch party was a great success with over 80 business leaders in attendance.

Alistair Hayward-Wright said “Worcester has been an important market to Hayward Wright for some time now, the opening of the new office shows our commitment to the businesses of the city and south Worcestershire”

IT'S A CURRY LIFE FOR CHEF AHAD! A chef from Dunhampton, Worcestershire, has garnered a top Curry Chef Award, presented in a high profile awards ceremony in London's West End recently. Chef Ahad Miah, from the Spice Fusion Restaurant, Dunhampton, Worcestershire, went to London to receive the prize.

The winners of the Curry Life Magazine's best Curry Chef Awards were announced on the evening of the 9th of October 2011 at a glittering ceremony at The Cumberland Hotel, Marble Arch, London.

The main purpose of the Curry Life Chef Awards was to showcase and pay tribute to the country's leading curry restaurants. Winning Curry Chef Ahad said: "I am absolutely delighted. We've always been very proud of our food here at Spice Fusion and it's a great honour to be named the best Curry Chef in my area.” Over 300 guests attended the prestigious awards ceremony.

Spice Fusion provides delicious authentic Asian food, their international chefs have created a delicious menu uniting two great Asian cuisines, Indian and Thai to give a unique dining experience. Whatever the occasion, whether a relaxing meal for two, holding a private event, celebrating a birthday, entertaining clients or just having a day out, Spice Fusion’s friendly team are available to cater for all dining needs. The modern, relaxing surrounding ensures a great occasion.

RAJDOOT AND RGS GRANGE TEAM UP IN SUPPORT OF NOAH’S ARK. The Rajdoot of Cutnall Green welcomed parents, staff and friends of The Grange for an evening of Bollywood themed entertainment in support of the charity Noah’s Ark. The guests enjoyed fine food and an array of Bollywood dances performed by Desi Narh (as seen on Britain’s Got Talent).

The host of the evening, Nina Dalman, confirmed the event was a huge success and a complete sellout. Nina “wishes to thank all those who came along in support of a local charity”.

December 2011 81

www.edgemagazine.org Warwickshire’s best kept secret

WARWICKSHIRE’S BEST KEPT SECRET Leamington & County Golf Club

Tucked comfortably away in an idyllic country setting, Leamington & County Golf Club is one of Warwickshire’s best kept secrets. You’d be forgiven for thinking that the club was merely an excellent golf course. However, with its indoor coaching facility, superb restaurant and fully- equipped meeting room, it’s clear that Leamington & County has so much more to offer.

The club’s Media Room is perfect for meetings, training days and conferences. With packages starting at just £25 per delegate and Premier Golf packages starting at £40 per delegate, the room comfortably accommodates up to 16 delegates.

The restaurant is perfectly situated with views overlooking the stunning course, making it the ideal venue for wedding receptions and special occasions.

An excellent Pro Shop stocks the latest and best in golf equipment. Should you need to brush up on any aspect of your game, our Professional, Julian Mellor, can provide expert tuition and the Club’s unique Indoor Training Academy uses the latest video and ‘shot analysis’ software. Contact Julian on 01926 428014 for details.

Let’s not forget the golf course itself! With over 100 years of history, this well established course welcomes visitors as well as prospective new members. For details of our membership offers and ‘pay and play’ availability, see below. n Angela Hinksman 01926 425961 marketing@leamingtongolf.co.uk

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