Edge Magazine April 2015 Master (volume 31)

Edge Magazine April 2015

(Volume 31) FREE EDITION

Warwickshire, Worcestershire, West Midlands and North Cotswolds

Food & Drink | Culture | Business | Fashion | Lifestyle

>/s/E' dK' d, Z ʹ t, d WZ/ dK W z t, E /d >> 'K ^ tZKE'͍

^W / >/^d & D/>z > t ^K>/ /dKZ^

dƌĂĐLJ >ŽǁĞ͘ >>

/

&Žƌ Ă ǀĂƌŝĞƚLJ ŽĨ ƌĞĂƐŽŶƐ ŵĂŶLJ ĐŽƵƉůĞƐ ĐŚŽŽƐĞ ƚŽ ůŝǀĞ ƚŽŐĞƚŚĞƌ ƌĂƚŚĞƌ ƚŚĂŶ ŵĂƌƌLJ͘ ǀĞŶ ƚŚŽƐĞ ĐŽƵƉůĞƐ ŝŶ ƐĂŵĞ ƐĞdž ƌĞůĂƟŽŶƐŚŝƉƐ ǁŚŽ ĐŚŽŽƐĞ ŶŽƚ ƚŽ ĞŶƚĞƌ ŝŶƚŽ Ă ŝǀŝů WĂƌƚŶĞƌƐŚŝƉ Žƌ DĂƌƌŝĂŐĞ ŐĞŶƵŝŶĞůLJ ďĞůŝĞǀĞ ƚŚĂƚ ƚŚĞŝƌ ƌĞůĂƟŽŶƐŚŝƉ ǁŝůů ďĞ ĨŽƌ ůŝĨĞ ʹ ƚŚĞ ůĂƐƚ ƚŚŝŶŐ LJŽƵ ǁĂŶƚ ƚŽ ƚŚŝŶŬ ĂďŽƵƚ ŝƐ ͞ǁŚĂƚ ŝĨ ŝƚ ŐŽĞƐ ǁƌŽŶŐ͍͟ hd t Z ʹ ƚŚĞƌĞ ĂƌĞ ƐŽ ŵĂŶLJ ŚŝĚĚĞŶ ĚĂŶŐĞƌƐ ůƵƌŬŝŶŐ ŽƵƚ ƚŚĞƌĞ ǁŚŝĐŚ ŵĂLJ ĐŽŵĞ ďĂĐŬ ƚŽ ŚĂƵŶƚ LJŽƵ ĂŶĚ ŚĂǀĞ ƐĞƌŝŽƵƐ ĮŶĂŶĐŝĂů ŝŵƉůŝĐĂƟŽŶƐ ďŽƚŚ ǁŚĞŶ ƚŚĞ ƌĞůĂƟŽŶƐŚŝƉ ďƌĞĂŬƐ ĚŽǁŶ ŝŶŝƟĂůůLJ Žƌ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ůŽŶŐ ƚĞƌŵ͘ dŚĞ ŽƵƌƚƐ ĐĂŶŶŽƚ ŽīĞƌ LJŽƵ ƚŚĞ ƐĂŵĞ ƉƌŽƚĞĐƟŽŶ ĂƐ ŝƚ ǁŽƵůĚ ŝĨ LJŽƵ ǁĞƌĞ ŵĂƌƌŝĞĚ Žƌ ŚĂĚ ĞŶƚĞƌĞĚ ŝŶƚŽ Ă ƐĂŵĞ ƐĞdž DĂƌƌŝĂŐĞ Žƌ ŝǀŝů WĂƌƚŶĞƌƐŚŝƉ͘ dŚĞƌĞ ŝƐ ŶŽ ƐƵĐŚ ƚŚŝŶŐ ĂƐ ͞ƚŚĞ ĐŽŵŵŽŶ ůĂǁ ŚƵƐďĂŶĚͬĐŽŵŵŽŶ ůĂǁ ǁŝĨĞ͘͟ Ɛ ŵŽƌĞ ĐŽƵƉůĞƐ ĐŚŽŽƐĞ ƚŽ ůŝǀĞ ƚŽŐĞƚŚĞƌ ƚŚŝƐ ŝŶĐƌĞĂƐĞƐ ƚŚĞ ŶƵŵďĞƌ ŽĨ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ ǁŚŽ ĂƌĞ ďŽƌŶ ŽƵƚƐŝĚĞ ŽĨ ŵĂƌƌŝĂŐĞ͘ ǀĞŶ ǁŚĞƌĞ LJŽƵ ĐŽŚĂďŝƚ ĨŽƌ Ă ƐŚŽƌƚ ƉĞƌŝŽĚ ŽĨ ƟŵĞ ĞǀĞŶƚƐ ĐĂŶ ŽĐĐƵƌ ǁŚŝĐŚ ĐŽƵůĚ ĂīĞĐƚ LJŽƵƌ ĨƵƚƵƌĞ͖ ƚŚĞ ŝŶĐƌĞĂƐĞ Žƌ ĚĞĐƌĞĂƐĞ ŝŶ ǀĂůƵĞ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ƉƌŽƉĞƌƚLJ LJŽƵ ƉƵƌĐŚĂƐĞĚ ƚŽŐĞƚŚĞƌ͖ ƚŚĞ ƉĂƌƚŶĞƌ ǁŚŽ ŶŽ ůŽŶŐĞƌ ǁŽƌŬƐ ŝŶ ŽƌĚĞƌ ƚŽ ĐĂƌĞ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ Žƌ ƚŚĞ ƉĂƌƚŶĞƌ ǁŚŽ ŚĂƐ ďĞĞŶ ĂďůĞ ƚŽ ŝŵƉƌŽǀĞ ŚŝƐ Žƌ ŚĞƌ ĞŵƉůŽLJŵĞŶƚ ƉƌŽƐƉĞĐƚƐ ĂŶĚ ƚŚĞƌĞďLJ ĞĂƌŶƐ ƐƵďƐƚĂŶƟĂůůLJ ŵŽƌĞ͘ &Žƌ ƐŽ ŵĂŶLJ ŵĂůĞ ĂŶĚ ĨĞŵĂůĞ ĐŽƵƉůĞƐ ǁŚŽ ůŝǀĞ ƚŽŐĞƚŚĞƌ ƚŚĞƌĞ ĂƌĞ ƐŽ ŵĂŶLJ ƌŝƐŬƐ ƚŽ ĐŽŶƐŝĚĞƌ͕ ƉĂƌƟĐƵůĂƌůLJ ǁŚĞƌĞ ŽŶĞ ƉĂƌƚLJ ĂůƌĞĂĚLJ ŽǁŶƐ ƉƌŽƉĞƌƚLJ Žƌ ƚŚĞ ƉĂƌƟĞƐ ĚŽ ŶŽƚ ŵĂŬĞ ĞƋƵĂů ĐŽŶƚƌŝďƵƟŽŶƐ ƚŽ ƚŚĞ ƉƵƌĐŚĂƐĞ ŽĨ Ă ƉƌŽƉĞƌƚLJ͘ ^Ž ŵĂŶLJ ĐŽƵƉůĞƐ͕ ƉĂƌƟĐƵůĂƌůLJ ƚŚŽƐĞ ƐƚĂƌƟŶŐ ŽƵƚ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞ ĮƌƐƚ ƟŵĞ ;ĂŶĚ ƚŚŽƐĞ ǁŚŽ ŚĂǀĞ ĂůƌĞĂĚLJ ĐŽŵĞ ŽƵƚ ŽĨ Ă ďĂĚ ƌĞůĂƟŽŶƐŚŝƉͿ ƚŚĞLJ ĚŽ ŶŽƚ ƵŶĚĞƌƐƚĂŶĚ ƚŚĞ ƉŝƞĂůůƐ ŽĨ ƉƵƌĐŚĂƐŝŶŐ ƉƌŽƉĞƌƚLJ ƚŽŐĞƚŚĞƌ ĂŶĚ ƚŚĞ ƉƌŽďůĞŵƐ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞ ƉĂƌƚLJ ǁŚŽ ŝŶũĞĐƚƐ ŵŽƌĞ ĐĂƉŝƚĂů ƚŚĂŶ ƚŚĞ ŽƚŚĞƌ ĂŶĚ ǁŚŽ ĚŽĞƐ ŶŽƚ ƉƌŽǀŝĚĞ ǁŚĂƚ ƚŚĞ ͞ǁŚĂƚ ŝĨ ŝƚ ŐŽĞƐ ǁƌŽŶŐ ƐĐĞŶĂƌŝŽ͘͟ hŶůĞƐƐ LJŽƵ ŚĂǀĞ ƉƌŽƚĞĐƟŽŶ ŝŶ ƉůĂĐĞ Ăƚ ƚŚĞ ŽƵƚƐĞƚ LJŽƵ ŵĂLJ ǁĞůů ůŽƐĞ ƚŚĂƚ ĐĂƉŝƚĂů LJŽƵ ŚĂǀĞ ǁŽƌŬĞĚ ƐŽ ŚĂƌĚ ƚŽ ƚƌLJ ĂŶĚ ƉƌĞƐĞƌǀĞ͘ /Ĩ LJŽƵ ĂƌĞ ƚŚĞ ƉĂƌƚŶĞƌ ůĞŌ ǁŝƚŚ ƚŚĞ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ ĂŶĚ LJŽƵ ĐĂŶŶŽƚ Žƌ ĚŽ ŶŽƚ ǁŽƌŬ͕ ƚŚĞ ůĂƐƚ ƚŚŝŶŐ LJŽƵ ǁĂŶƚ ŝƐ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞ ŚŽƵƐĞ ƚŽ ďĞ ƐŽůĚ ĂŶĚ ĨŽƌ LJŽƵ ĂŶĚ LJŽƵƌ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ ƚŽ ŚĂǀĞ ŶŽǁŚĞƌĞ ƚŽ ůŝǀĞ ʹ ƚŚĂƚ ĐĂŶ ĂŶĚ ĚŽĞƐ ŚĂƉƉĞŶ ƐŽ ŵĂŬĞ ƐƵƌĞ LJŽƵ ƉƌŽƚĞĐƚ LJŽƵƌƐĞůĨ ĂŶĚ LJŽƵƌ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ ŝĨ LJŽƵ ĂƌĞ ƚŚĞ ƉĂƌƚŶĞƌ ǁŝƚŚ ĐĂƌĞ͕ ĂŶĚ LJŽƵƌ ŝŶǀĞƐƚŵĞŶƚ ŝĨ LJŽƵ ĂƌĞ ƚŚĞ ƉĂƌƚLJ ǁŚŽ ŚĂƐ ŝŶũĞĐƚĞĚ ƐƵďƐƚĂŶƟĂů ĐĂƉŝƚĂů ŝŶƚŽ LJŽƵƌ ŚŽŵĞ͘ ǀĞŶ ĞŶƚĞƌŝŶŐ ŝŶƚŽ Ă ĞĐůĂƌĂƟŽŶ ŽĨ dƌƵƐƚ Žƌ ĂŐƌĞĞŵĞŶƚ ĐĂŶ ďĞ ƌŝƐŬLJ ŝĨ ŽŶĞ ƉĂƌƚLJ ĚŽĞƐ ŶŽƚ ŚĂǀĞ ƚŚĞ ďĞŶĞĮƚ ŽĨ ƚĂŬŝŶŐ ŝŶĚĞƉĞŶĚĞŶƚ ůĞŐĂů ĂĚǀŝĐĞ ǁŚŝĐŚ ĐĂŶ ůĞĂĚ ƚŽ ĂŶLJ ĂŐƌĞĞŵĞŶƚ ďĞŝŶŐ ƐĞƚ ĂƐŝĚĞ ďLJ ƚŚĞ ŽƵƌƚ͘ /Ĩ ƚŚĞƌĞ ĂƌĞ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ ǁŝƚŚŝŶ ƚŚĞ ƌĞůĂƟŽŶƐŚŝƉ LJŽƵ ŶĞĞĚ ƚŽ ƌĞƐŽůǀĞ ƚŚĞ ĚĂLJ ƚŽ ĚĂLJ ĐĂƌĞ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ ĂŶĚ ŝĨ LJŽƵ ĂƌĞ ŶŽƚ ĂďůĞ ƚŽ ƌĞƐŽůǀĞ ƚŚŽƐĞ ŝƐƐƵĞƐ ŝƚ ŝƐ ĞƐƐĞŶƟĂů ƚŚĂƚ LJŽƵ ŚĂǀĞ Ăůů ƚŚĞ ŝŶĨŽƌŵĂƟŽŶ ĂǀĂŝůĂďůĞ ĂŶĚ ĂƌĞ ĂďůĞ ƚŽ ŵĂŬĞ ŝŶĨŽƌŵĞĚ ĚĞĐŝƐŝŽŶƐ ĂƐ ƚŽ LJŽƵƌ ĨƵƚƵƌĞ ĂŶĚ ƚŚĞ ĨƵƚƵƌĞ ŽĨ LJŽƵƌ ĐŚŝůĚƌĞŶ͘

d >͗ ϬϭϵϬϱ ϲϭϬϴϴϴ ZĞƐƚĚĂůĞ ,ŽƵƐĞ ϯϮͲϯϯ &ŽƌĞŐĂƚĞ ^ƚƌĞĞƚ tŽƌĐĞƐƚĞƌ tZϭ ϭ

tŚĂƚĞǀĞƌ LJŽƵƌ ƐŝƚƵĂƟŽŶ͕ Ăƚ >ŽǁĞ͛Ɛ ǁĞ ĂƌĞ ŚĞƌĞ ƚŽ ŚĞůƉ LJŽƵ ĞǀĞƌLJ ƐƚĞƉ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ǁĂLJ ʹ ŬŶŽǁ LJŽƵƌ ƌŝŐŚƚƐ ĂŶĚ ǁŚĞƌĞ LJŽƵ ƐƚĂŶĚ ůĞŐĂůůLJ ʹ ŝĨ ŶŽƚ LJŽƵ ŵĂLJ ǁĞůů ƉĂLJ Ă ŚŝŐŚ ƉƌŝĐĞ ĨŽƌ ŶŽƚ ĚŽŝŶŐ ƐŽ͘

ǁǁǁ͘ůŽǁĞƐͲƐŽůŝĐŝƚŽƌƐ͘ĐŽ͘ƵŬ

Editor’s Note

Michael Abu-Zalaf Editor-in-Chief

S

pring is slowly blossoming, time to blow out the cobwebs and put these wintery days behind us, hopefully!

The team and I have had a busy month, with some wonderful opportunities including reviewing Birmingham’s Marriot Hotel Spa, The Olive Branch restaurant in Worcester and also researching what festivals we have coming up over the next few months throughout our region. We’ve explored the countryside test driving a family-friendly car and got to venture inside David Dennis’ race horse training stables. We also look into the Studio, Birmingham’s innovative and unique conferencing and events venue.

Savannah Assistant Editor-in-Chief

I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate my sister, Anna and her husband, Frank on the birth of their first child, the beautiful Savannah, to whom I would like to dedicate this edition to. Well done both!

I would also like to wish all our readers a wonderful April, the team amd I look forward to welcoming you again next month.

If you like what you see in Edge Magazine, please show your support by liking us on Facebook and following us on Twitter, as well as checking out our website at: www.edgemagazine.org

Emma Jenkins is also feeling that spring has sprung and is excited to let us know that colour is making a breakthrough and pattern is back!

April will see Edge moving into a new home, which we’re all thrilled about, you can now find us in Stoke Prior, near Bromsgrove.

April 2015

3

Everhot Cookers - The Electric Range

ChaseHeatingAd Jul14WV_Layout 1 23/06/2014 17:18 Page 1

Main Features Friar Street Eat, Shop, Relax

CHASE Heating We are now suppliers of Everhot Cookers

Visit our showroom to see working models on display or “Warming the heart of the since 1969” call community now to request a brochure…

333 Plan now and start saving01386 money on555 your fuel bills 8

NEW

STOCKISTS for summer of top brands

Esse Firestone Charnwood Rayburn outdoor Morso ·wood Aga burning· Aarrow oven Parkray

Homegrown Talent International Fashion Designer Luke Roper 16

and more, all Good Food FANTASTIC available to see Hotshowroom Baths PIZZA OVEN! at our Warm Home ROAST • BAKE • BRAISE in Pershore

Everhot Cookers - The Electric Rayburn Cookers on display including workingRange models HETAS Reg number 1981

David Dennis Racing A Firm Favourite

Installation available from our qualified We are now suppliers of HETAS engineers EverhotChase Cookers Like us on Facebook Heating Ltd

Visit our showroom to see Chase Heating Ltd working models on display or Racecourse Road, Pershore, Worcestershire, WR10 2EY call now to request a brochure…

36

Tel: +44 (0)1386 555 333 Fax: +44 (0)1386 552 269 01386 555 333 E-mail: sales@chaseheating.co.uk www.chaseheating.co.uk

STOCKISTS of top brands

Delightful Deauville Flybe Announces New Route

42

Charnwood Morso · Aga Parkray · Aarrow and more, all available to see at our showroom in Pershore

Rayburn Cookers on display including working models

Lemon water And its Amazing Health Benefits

60

HETAS Reg number 1981

Installation available from our qualified HETAS engineers Like us on Facebook Chase Heating Ltd

Chase Heating Ltd Racecourse Road, Pershore, Worcestershire, WR10 2EY

Tel: +44 (0)1386 555 333 Fax: +44 (0)1386 552 269 E-mail: sales@chaseheating.co.uk www.chaseheating.co.uk

4

www.edgemagazine.org

&28/' <28 *,9( $ &+,/' $ &+$1&("

$ $UH \RX UHDG\ IRU WKH F FKDOOHQJH RI SXWWLQJ VRPH

F FRORXU EDFN LQWR D \RXQJ S SHUVRQ±V OLIH" : QHHG )RVWHU &DUHUV IURP DOO ZDONV :H R RI OLIH QRZ VR FDOO XV RQ R RU WH[W ,63 WR IUHHWH[W WR WDON DERXW )RVWHULQJ :H JLYH JHQHURXV DOORZDQFHV H[FHOOHQW VXSSRUW

)RVWHULQJ

7KHUDS\

IQSPLUHG )RVWHU &DUH

(GXFDWLRQ

6RFLDO :RUN

ZZZ LQVSLUHGIRVWHUFDUH FR XN

7+( &+$1*,1* )$&( 2) )267(5,1* )RVWHU &DUHU %\ &ROLQ VLQFH ®0\ IDPLO\ DQG , EHJDQ RXU IRVWHULQJ MRXUQH\ LQ IRU WKH /RFDO $XWKRULW\ DQG ORRNLQJ EDFN ZH FDQ VHH KRZ PXFK WKH UROH RI IRVWHULQJ KDV FKDQJHG )RVWHULQJ LV QRW MXVW DERXW WDNLQJ VRPHRQH HOVH¶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

&DUHUV DV SURIHVVLRQDO PHPEHUV RI WKHLU YHU\ LPSRUWDQW WHDP ZKHUH WKH FKLOG LV DOZD\V DW WKH FHQWUH 7KH VXSSRUW DQG JXLGDQFH ZH UHFHLYHG ZDV VHFRQG WR QRQH DQG ZH WUXO\ IHOW YDOXHG

,W FDQ EH D GLI¿FXOW MRE DW WLPHV EXW WKH UHZDUGV FRQWLQXRXVO\ RXWZHLJK WKH FKDOOHQJHV 0DQ\ RI WKH FKLOGUHQ WKDW KDYH EHHQ SDUW RI RXU IDPLO\ RYHU WKH \HDUV FRQWLQXH WR EH D SDUW RI RXU OLYHV SRVW IRVWHULQJ DQG RIWHQ EULQJ WKHLU RZQ FKLOGUHQ WR YLVLW XV )RU XV VHHLQJ RXU IRVWHU FKLOGUHQ PDNH VXFK IDQWDVWLF SDUHQWV WKHPVHOYHV PDNHV XV VR SURXG DQG WKH ZKROH SURFHVV ZRUWKZKLOH :H FDQ VHH WKDW WKH FLUFOH RI DEXVH LV EURNHQ DQG IDPLO\ YDOXHV KDYH EHHQ UHGLVFRYHUHG ´

$W ,63 ZH SODFH JUHDW HPSKDVLV RQ UHFUXLWLQJ WUDLQLQJ DQG GHYHORSLQJ WKH YHU\ EHVW )RVWHU &DUHUV IURP D GLYHUVH UDQJH RI EDFNJURXQGV VR WKDW \RXQJ SHRSOH FDQ H[SHULHQFH WKH EHVW WKDW IRVWHULQJ FDQ SURYLGH :H KHOS FUHDWH WKH ULJKW HQYLURQPHQW E\ SURYLGLQJ D ZUDS DURXQG VHUYLFH WKDW SURYLGHV ZLGH UDQJLQJ SUDFWLFDO DQG SURIHVVLRQDO VXSSRUW IRU ERWK <RXQJ 3HRSOH DQG )RVWHU )DPLOLHV

)RVWHULQJ D <RXQJ 3HUVRQ LV RQH RI WKH PRVW FKDOOHQJLQJ \HW UHZDUGLQJ WKLQJV \RX FDQ GR DQG ,63 LV KHUH HYHU\ VWHS RI WKH ZD\ WR PDNH VXUH WKDW IRVWHULQJ LV ULJKW IRU \RX :H PDWFK \RX WR WKH ULJKW <RXQJ 3HUVRQ DQG SURYLGH \RX DQG \RXU IDPLO\ ZLWK DOO WKH WUDLQLQJ DQG SURIHVVLRQDO VXSSRUW \RX QHHG WR EH D )RVWHU 3DUHQW *HW LQ WRXFK WRGD\ DQG ZH ZLOO WDON \RX WKRXJK WKH SURFHVV RI EHFRPLQJ RQH RI RXU FDUHUV RQ RU JR WR ZZZ LVSFKLOGFDUH RUJ XN IRU PRUH

LQIRUPDWLRQ

April 2015

5

Contents PRODUCTION

Friar Street

8

Luke Roper

16

Editorial

Working Space

20

Alternative Flooring Ideas

22

Lexington Lifestyle

24

Romance is Dead

25

Chase Heating

26

Michael Abu-Zalaf - Editor in Chief @ZalafAbu michael@edgemagazine.org Tel:07809 702 992 Lucinda Bunn - Copy Editor @lucindabunn lucinda@edgemagazine.org

Flexible living 28

Megan Ace - Content Editor @Megannelsey Megan@edgemagazine.org

City Retreat

30

Garden Magic

32

Malvern Festival

34

David Dennis Racing

36

Beautiful Worcestershire Gardens

39

Sporting Man

40

Delightful Deuville

42

Charlie Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neill - Warwickshire Sales @EdgeMag_Charlie charlie@edgemagazine.org Tel: 07834 538 284

Spring Festivals

44

Droitwich Summer Festival

48

Spring Time at The Crown

51

Best of Brunch

52

Steve Picker - Worcestershire Sales @EdgeMag_Steve steve@edgemagazine.org Tel:07515 493 703

Totally Tapas

54

The Local Kitchen

56

Pinotage Pleasure

58

Good Cheer

59

Lucie Abu-Zalaf - West Midlands Sales @LucieLincolnLew lucie@edgemagazine.org Tel:07714 490 943

Lemon Water

60

Green People

62

Spring Fashion

64

Summer Swimwear

67

Blue Sky Ball

68

Escape Arts

69

Pop of Culture

70

Daisy Chain Benevolent Fund

71

No Name Lane

72

Peter Berry

73

News on ISAs

74

SEAT Leon X-Perience

76

Pick of the Month

78

Your Story Book

80

Raising the Bar

82

Sales

Could this be you?

North Cotswolds Sales @EdgeMag_your name yourname@edgemagazine.org Tel: Call Michael if you spot this and would be interested in the position!

CONTRIBUTORS Laura Clay Tom Ware Lucie Abu-Zalaf David Hatton

Karl Strawbridge Mel Taffs Emma Jenkins Michael Abu-Zalaf

WRITE TO US MLP Publishing Ltd 9 Salters Court Galton Way Hadzor Droitwich Worcestershire WR9 7EZ

info@edgemagazine.org 6

www.edgemagazine.org

What's on 81

ONLY THE

freshest ingredients FOR MOST

THE

IMAGINATIVE OF

DISHES

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Spring is a fantastic time for our chefs with all the fresh-tasting seasonal produce in the markets. And our new menu makes the most of it all with some wonderfully imaginative dishes in each of our three gastropubs. Simply season liberally with friendly, efficient service, fine wines and honest beers, and you have the recipe for a lovely springtime get-together with friends or family.â&#x20AC;?

Nigel Brown Head Chef at The Moorings

Welsh Road, Offchurch, Leamington Spa, Warks; CV33 9AQ. Tel: 01926 425801 www.thestagatoffchurch.com

West Midlands & Wales region Great British Pub Awards 2014

Les Routiers 2014

Myton Road, Leamington Spa, Warks; CV31 3NY. Tel: 01926 425043 www.themoorings.co.uk

1 Droitwich Road, Feckenham, Redditch, Worcs; B96 6JE. Tel: 01527 894422 www.theforestatfeckenham.com

Hospitality Awards 2014 Finalist

Eagle Star Awards 2012 Winner

April 2015

7

Friar Street

Worcesterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premiere shopping destination Friar Street has been an integral part of Worcesterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history since medieval times, when it served as an important thoroughfare skirting the city walls. Now situated between the High Street and City Walls Road, today it is home to many different independent retailers and has become the premiere street in Worcester for shopping.

Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s high fashion, jewellery, home interiors, health, beauty, food or drink you are after, you can pretty much find every kind of independent retailer you can think of on this street. Each shop has the added bonus of being situated in its own very unique setting, because of the different time period that each building on the street was constructed.

If you have not visited Friar Street yet, then it is certainly a place you should add to your must see list of places. If not for the amazing buildings which line the streets, then definitely for the amazing shopping experience you will find here.

8

www.edgemagazine.org

April 2015

9

Infinity Beauty

Everything is beautiful at Infinity Beauty. From the clean, modern surroundings of the treatment rooms to the extensive list of the latest beauty treatments, the team at Infinity Beauty will ensure a professional, quality service at all times.

Located along Worcester’s renowned Friar Street, Infinity Beauty is a relaxing haven amongst the hustle and bustle of the thriving city. Striving to create a warm and friendly atmosphere, the team at Infinity Beauty is on hand to cater to your every need.

All aspects of beauty treatments, various holistic therapies & sports massage.

47 Friar Street Worcester, WR1 2NA 01905 613558 www.infinity-beauty.me

The Hat House

The Hat House, is in its fifth year trading on Friar Street, firstly as a concession in a boutique, and then two years ago expanding down the road into its own premises at No.16.

Weddings, Garden parties, visits to 'The Palace', Race meetings are just a part of our work. Whatever the occasion you can be assured that we can work with you to create something ‘just right’ !

We are excited to announce the introduction of hats by London designers available alongside our own to buy or hire, together with a fantastic range of umbrellas and patent handbags!

16 Friar Street Worcester WR1 2LZ 07940 529507 www.thehathouse.co.uk

Espada

Espada Boutique Worcester have designer evening gowns, cocktail, raceday dresses, black tie & ball, mother of the bride and groom outfits, wedding guest, prom dresses as well as one of Worcestershire’s largest ranges of ladies hats & fascinators in their beautiful dress boutique over two levels on historic Friar Street.

If you want a truly amazing outfit for your occasion, Espada is the perfect destination with brands like Linea Raffaelli, Jovani, Gina Bacconi, and more.

54 Friar Street, Worcester WR1 2NA www.espada.co.uk

10

www.edgemagazine.org

Taylor Bennett Barbers

You get a warm friendly welcome as you enter into Taylor Bennett Barbers who are now celebrating 21 years trading on Friar Street Worcester.

Owners Guy Taylor & Nick Bennett with their team of 5 barbers pride themselves in offering professional gents and boys cuts and styles to suit all ages, modern and traditional. With a wealth of experience Guy & Nick offer a great service and welcome new and existing customers to their busy barbers.

1-3 Friar Street, Worcester WR1 2LZ 01905 613654 www.taylorbennettbarbers.net

Felice

Felice, 6 Friar Street, the eponymous 32 year old fashion purveyor is now show casing spring summer 2015 clothes for the modern minded woman looking for effortless, affordable luxury. With totally exclusive lines sourced internationally for utmost cut, imagination, flair and quality you could expect to find the perfect white cotton shirt and work pants, to a beaded shift or soft breezy holiday skirt.

From work to vacation or celebrations, Felice is your passport to flexible style and sophistication in an easy going, knowledgeable, attitude free environment!

6 Friar Street, Worcester WR1 2LZ 01905 20335 www.friarstreetworcester.com/felice April 2015

11

Blow Your Top

Worcester’s premier men’s hair stylists, Blow Your Top, is renowned for creating stylish, modern, up-to-date and on trend styles as well as your classic cuts. With 34 years experience, the team delivers a first class service in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. There, you’ll find accomplished stylists with a dedication to the customer experience.

So if it’s a straight forward cut and finish, short back and sides, or something more creative, head to Blow Your Top. 24 Friar Street Worcester WR1 2LZ 07794086403 www.blowyourtop-worcester.co.uk

Interior Furnishers

A warm welcome awaits you at Worcester’s Interior Furnishers store, now open at No.22. We have showrooms on three floors comprising FURNITURE: Duresta and Gascoigne etc, FABRICS & WALLPAPERS: Zoffany and Colefax & Fowler etc, CARPETS and FLOORING: Brintons, Ulster, Crucial Trading and Amtico etc, BLINDS, SHUTTERS and CURTAINS: Luxaflex, Interior Furnishers, Sanderson and Jane Churchill etc.

We have a wealth of experience having been in the furnishings trade for many years as Hannah & Company, and believe a visit to our new design showrooms will inspire you.

Remember to look for the IF logo!!

22 Friar Street, Worcester, WR1 2LZ Tel: 01905 26044 www.if4.co.uk

Singapore Restaurant

David and his team have designed an appealing menu that features a selection of Cantonese dishes plus a special selection of popular Singaporean and Malaysian dishes which will excite your appetite and taste buds. To complement the food, there is an extensive wine list specially put together with a real focus on pairing wines with the dishes on the menu.

Open Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 5pm — 11pm Friday, Saturday, Sunday 12pm — 11pm 29 Friar Street Worcester, WR1 2NA 01905 613005 www.singaporerestaurant.co.uk

12

www.edgemagazine.org

Thai Gallery

Thai Gallery take great pride in providing you with fresh and delicious Thai cuisine that we hope will bring you back again and again.

Our cooks are highly experienced in preparing Thai meals with speed and efficiency. We only use the finest and freshest ingredients imported from Thailand, to give that authentic taste to our traditional Thai food. With a variety of different dishes to choose from on the menu, we are sure you will find a new taste sensation you will love.

26-32 Friar St, Worcester WR1 2LZ 01905 25451 www.thaigallery.co.uk April 2015

13

Insitu

Insitu is one of the few independent furniture stores in the Midlands and has been in the heart of the City since 1985. It offers a wide choice of contemporary furniture, accessories and lighting for those looking for something different and special. Amongst its suppliers Insitu can boast it has some of the major manufacturers such as Stressless, Ligne Roset, Varier and Collin & Hayes, as well as many other leading designers of high quality contemporary furniture.

Insitu’s individual approach means that the very knowledgeable team can advise and help you find the perfect match for your home.

Call in and be inspired.

35 Friar Street Worcester WR1 2NA 01905 613515 www.insitufurniture.co.uk

Chung Ying Garden

The Chung Ying Garden is Worcester’s premier eating place for traditional Vietnamese and Cantonese cuisine. Not only are you greeted with a warm welcome from Wendy and her team, but the aroma of beautiful spices and flavours will capture your taste buds as you are lead to your table.

Choose from a wide range of dishes with special recommended dishes served on a hot sizzling platter. A good range of beers, wines and spirits compliment the finishing touch to this food heaven.

50 Friar Street Worcester 01905 22972

Jill Wheelock-Lines

If you haven’t visited us yet then you’ve missed out!

If you have, then you will know that we always have a fabulous selection of jewellery in stock, that is amongst the best in Worcestershire. From the very best diamond, to a natural pearl, or a piece made especially for you. A friendly welcome awaits everyone, whether purchasing or not, always with extreme customer care and a spot of fun thrown in.

8 Friar Street, Worcester WR1 2LZ 01905 613799 www.jillwheelock-lines.co.uk

14

www.edgemagazine.org

Heroes

Heroes is an eclectic, alternative bar with a relaxed atmosphere, serving quality drinks till late. There are live DJs every weekend in the back bar playing a variety of the best classic Funk, Soul, Old School Hip Hop, Punk, Rockabilly and Electronica. Situated above the Thai Gallery restaurant on Friar Street, it is a quirky maze of nooks and crannies including a games room with a pool table, table football and arcade machine.

26-32 Friar Street, Worcester WR1 2LZ 01905 22755 www.facebook.com/heroesworcester

Little Pink Cake Shop

Angela Veronica is a wedding designer who enjoys working with clients to bring out their own style.

If you want your wedding plan to reflect who you are as a couple, please do come down and speak with Angela Veronica about your cakes, flowers and venue dressings.

52 Friar Street Worcester WR1 2NA 01905 312043 www.thelittlepinkcakeshop.com April 2015

15

Homegrown Talent We speak to internationally acclaimed fashion designer Luke Roper about the road to success and his struggle to get there Michael Abu-Zalaf

16

www.edgemagazine.org

S

ince its humble beginnings in the West Midlands in 2001 LUKE has developed into a leading contemporary menswear brand with a following stretching far and wide. Having grown with the support of key independent menswear boutiques the brand has evolved organically keeping all if its values, which sets it apart.

LUKE is a practical interpretation on contemporary menswear and has all the components of the modern lad, a gentleman, a working class hero and a bit of a rogue. The brand draws strong influences from the tough elements of its native Birmingham. Foundry worker meets fashionista, Luke’s taste envelopes all. Luke’s ethos is to put a fashionable twist on any men’s garment but without over designing to retain a cool masculine look. The brand offers an exclusive look for an inclusive country, the United Kingdom of Luke.

Luke Roper started life in Walsall Wood in the West Midlands, the son of a talented Dressmaker mother and hard working father, by 12 he found he had a talent for football and sewing machines, by 15 he was making one off shirts for his friends, he soon became a local legend, with lads from all over the area ordering his unique designs and creations; then hitting the clubs of the Wild West Midlands decked out in Luke’s original specially crafted pieces.

London called at 20 where the premier fashion university in the country Central St Martins noticed his talents and a degree in menswear design was obtained. Here Luke honed his skills and hatched a plan with lifelong family friend Simon Poole; a project to make the best menswear brand in the UK was conceived. On graduation Luke teamed up with Deborah Poole to start the fledgling business and the journey began.

The business has the same principles it started with over ten years ago. Luke’s innovative masculine takes on fashion; teamed with great quality and exclusive distribution means we continue to be at the forefront of the British fashion industry.

Who inspired you to get started in the Fashion business?

My Mum. And she continues to inspire me today.

Also, my older brothers, some 20 years my elder.

Seeing them succeed made me want to do well and have nice things too. Everyday we’re aspiring for more.

Where did you work before setting out on your own?

After completing my degree, I desperately needed industry experience. I saw a design job advertised for a high street brand, which turned out to be River Island. I lasted all of 4 months, having swiftly

realised that if I was going to make mistakes and achieve, I wanted to do it under my own brand.

What are the biggest challenges you have faced in your career to date?

One of the challenges is finding a great supply chain. As much as we build up fabulous relations with our suppliers, by doing things the right way like paying them on time and treating them well, you always need to look for new suppliers because you always have to look for new products; new countries might be more relevant etc. For example, we’re currently experiencing difficulties with the dollar, the rate’s weak, which means our prices in China have gone up. 50 cents makes a big difference at retail price point. There’s a pricing architecture in every range; there’s only so much someone will pay for a particular garment. Our on going battle is retaining our margins.

What are the highs and what were the low points so far?

Speaking on behalf of us all within the business, we’re all so lucky to be in the game and living the life we live. Every time we launch a new collection and every new season brings a high for us all.

Negatives? I can’t think of any. Even on a Monday morning! If you believe in something that much, you’re passionate, you have a great product and you want something enough, you can make it happen.

How do you measure success?

It’s something I don’t really question. Settling down with my wife and having two kids is the most successful thing I’ve done. Apart from that, health, going on holiday and knowing my kids are going to be alright in the future is one way I can measure it.

Business wise, we are a success. Do you measure it in the property you live in? I don’t know. In May, we’ll be entering our 15th year in the fashion industry and that’s a huge success.

Which designers have had the biggest influence on you?

This is a tough one. We are the best British fashion, life style, menswear brand. If I aspire to, or rated a designer highly enough, I wouldn’t be doing what I do. I’m really inspired by fabrics. Fabrics, trims and detail. I love the diversity of what we do. We do clothes for the day, the weekend and the evening.

Is there anyone you particularly look up to?

Anyone who’s made a success of their life and hasn’t walked over anyone along the way! Even more so, people who have started with nothing. I’m all for ‘well done’.

April 2015

17

Who in your mind is the biggest Fashion Icon and why?

10 years ago it was Beckham but now there’s a quicker turn around. I can’t think of a current style icon. Social media means icons come and go so quickly.

How do you manage to juggle family life and a successful career?

Moving into my home office has made a massive difference. Life changing. I love to do the school run and the kids will come and say hi after school.

What does Luke Roper do to relax when not being an internationally recognised designer?

Ha ha! I LOVE fishing and I like golf. I also love football and take my 5 year old son to The Villa. I’ve done a fair few marathons too - I love running and being outside.

What has been your biggest wow moment?

I got struck by lighting when I was 16. June 10 1993, I was plying cricket and it started to mist. Then bang!

The opening of the Bristol store was my biggest business wow moment. We now have 8 stores in the UK. They’re all special. Every time we get to see a brand new range is most definitely a wow moment and unwrapping new season products before anyone else sees it.

18

www.edgemagazine.org

What is the most important thing to you?

Family. Without a doubt. And friends.

Which rising talent should we be keeping an eye on in the future?

I wouldn’t even know. I don’t follow the industry. I know where our vision is and where we want to go.

We follow our own nose and own path.

Now you have achieved international success, what are your plans for the future?

We are currently rolling out 5 brand new stores in the Middle East including Dubai. I stretch myself in a lot of ways. I relax at the weekend and holidays, but I want to keep moving forward. Africa, with it’s merging economy will be our next location to look into. Then further international growth including the Far East and the Americas.

Anything else you’d like to add, Luke?

I couldn’t do any of this without my team. We have a fabulous financial controller and my business partners are solid. You can be the best designer in the world but you do need business skills and a great team around you. www.luke1977.com

April 2015

19

Working Space

W

Conference and events made simple with thestudio

hen it comes to innovative and unique conferencing and events venues, you’ll be hard pressed to find anything else like thestudio in the heart of Birmingham city centre.

Opened in 1999, the Cannon Street venue now occupies four floors, providing a selection of creative and colourful spaces that can be adapted to suit any event. With stateof-the-art rooms and facilities catering for between two and 250 people, whether you’re hosting a small meeting, big presentation or something in between, thestudio provides a refreshingly simple approach to organising and hosting events.

Whilst providing everything you’d expect from a conference and events venue, thestudio is committed to going that one step further to deliver something extraordinary. Home to creative conferencing solutions, including signature breakout zones complete with bean bags and retro games, as well as a relaxing open-air terrace and atrium, these little extras all help to inspire delegates and boost productivity. To help your event go off with a bang, why not add some TNTs to your booking?

They’re the ‘Tiny Noticeable Things’ that have a big impact to your event, like borrowing a PS2 for some friendly rivalry or a bacon sandwich on arrival.

When it comes to catering your event, thestudio’s team of chefs prepare and cook all meals fresh on site, ensuring

20

www.edgemagazine.org

freshness and flexibility for all guests. With a commitment to serving locally sourced and seasonal ingredients with a creative twist, including home grown herbs from the roof garden, the tried and tested menu options leave visitors feeling energised for the rest of the day.

In addition to enjoying a taste of the culinary offering, thestudio also offers a range of taster training events throughout the year delivered by selected partners.

With sessions in April and May focusing on resilience management and having a positive personal impact, the events are a great way to experience a little bit of thestudio first hand. Whether you’re a small business owner, director of a large national company or anything in between, taster events offer valuable information and insight for tackling some of the biggest challenges in business.

With fantastic transport links across the whole country, and conveniently located just two minutes from Birmingham New Street station, the enviable location in the heart of the UK’s second city ensures thestudio can deliver for regional, national and international visitors.

With a second venue in the heart of Manchester too, studio venues are well placed to meet your needs.

For more information, or to discuss how thestudio can deliver your meeting requirements, visit www. studiovenues.co.uk

Beautiful Bespoke Kitchens 5 Complete Kitchens on display at our showroom

Stockists of Karndean Floorcoverings

SHOWROOM OPEN: Tuesday to Friday 9am - 5pm & Saturday 9am - 3pm BLACKMINSTER BUSINESS PARK, BLACKMINSTER, EVESHAM, WORCS. WR11 7RE

T: 01386 830006

www.thepaintedkitchencompany.com

,_[LYUHS 0U[LYUHS <W]J *VTWVZP[L /HYK^VVK :VM[^VVK 6HR 7PUL 4V\SKLK .SHaLK -PYLKVVYZ :\WWS` -P[ *VTWSL[L KVVY OHUKSL WHJRHNLZ :LY]PUN [OL >VYJLZ[LYZOPYL HUK :V\[O )PYTPUNOHT (YLH

*HSS 1\Z[PU [V HYYHUNL

H MYLL OV\ZL Z\Y]L`

;! 4!

^^^ KVVY Z\WWSPLYZ JV \R April 2015

21

Alternative Flooring Ideas At KSH Carpet & Flooring

K

SH Carpet & Flooring in Bromsgrove has always offered a wide range of flooring such as designer and cushioned vinyls, wood, rubber and both natural and traditional carpets, all from leading manufacturers.

The team has years of experience and at KSH, customer service is backed up by sound advice and a personal approach from the moment that a customer comes into the showroom until the flooring is laid in their home.

New and exciting ranges at KSH include Leather and Cork flooring by Granorte, Dreamclick Pro Vinyl flooring

by Berry Alloc and Engineered Oak Flooring by Karlyn.

Also due in this month are Brockway Carpets new display stands with exciting new ranges.

Why not liven up your living space with the new designer vinyl from Amtico? Both the Signature and Spacia ranges are on display at the KSH

showroom. With such a long history of creating functional, yet beautiful, long-lasting flooring, Amtico has pushed the boundaries of what is possible in your home.

If you are looking for a natural fibre carpet, come down and check out our Sisal, Seagrass and Wool Collection.

KSH also offers bespoke wooden flooring, giving you a choice of many different colours that would suit any room in your home, all finished on site to your specification, creating a floor that is unique to you.

No need to hunt around for flooring this Easter...

FLOORING

PAINTS & PAPERS

...just visit KSH Whatever the room or the style, you are sure to find what you are looking for from our huge range of flooring. You can even complete your room with our complimenting selection of Farrow & Ball paints and papers and window blinds.

Visit our showroom or call us today on 01527 880778 Over 35 years experience Â&#x201E; Full measuring service Â&#x201E; No-obligation quotations Exceptional quality, competitive prices Â&#x201E; Professional installation Â&#x201E; Insurance work

18 Worcester Road Bromsgrove Worcestershire B61 7AE 01527 880778

Mon to Fri: 9am-5pm Sat: 9am-4pm 18 Worcester Rd Bromsgrove B61 7AE

www.edgemagazine.org

kshflooring.co.uk

www.kshflooring.co.uk BNVKBHGJHBDSULO BD LQGG

22

BLINDS

7DOWUHHV 6WRYHV DQG )LUHSODFHV Taltrees Stoves and Fireplaces make and build beautiful fireplaces for wood-burning stoves, gas stoves and inset fireplaces

$OO RXU ZRUN LV FDUULHG RXW E\ RXU RZQ WUDLQHG FUDIWVPHQ DQG HQJLQHHUV (VWDEOLVKHG IRU RYHU \HDUV +(7$6 DQG *$6 6$)( UHJLVWHUHG 6WRFNLVWV RI PRVW OHDGLQJ PDNHV LQFOXGLQJ $&5 +HDW 3URGXFWV 6WRYD[ *D]FR <HRPDQ 'RYUH +XQWHU )UDQFR %HOJH DQG 1RUGSHLV 0DUEOH 6WRQH DQG :RRG 0DQWHOV ,QJOHQRRN ILUHSODFHV FRQVWUXFWHG

134688

ZZZ WDOWUHHVVWRYHV FRP

Visit our large showroom with many working models to view or ask for a home survey visit without obligation.

We cover Central England and most parts of Wales.

Showroom open everyday

7DOWUHHV 6WRYHV DQG )LUH 3ODFHV :RUFHVWHU 5RDG 7HQEXU\ :HOOV :RUFHVWHUVKLUH :5 -$

- ( 1HYLWW /LJKWLQJ 6SHFLDOLVWV

)RU DOO \RXU OLJKWLQJ UHTXLUHPHQWV YLVLW RQH RI RXU VWRUHV %URDG 6WUHHW

6RXWKJDWH 6WUHHW

:RUFHVWHU

*ORXFHVWHU

ZZZ QHYLWWOLJKWLQJ FR XN

April 2015

23

Lexington Lifestyle At Hatton and Harding Interiors

M

David Hatton

ore & more frequently we see luxury brands adding the word 'lifestyle' and creating strong emotional attachment with consumers.

People are attracted by an identity and image rather than to a particular product from brands that they love and desire.

Lexington also has a desirable range of kitchen and dining accessories to compliment the collection.

Ourselves at Hatton & Harding (www. hattonandharding.com) are really excited to be able to offer this to our clients.

Beautiful inspired dining can be created from an extensive range of tableware Lexington Company (created in including mugs, plates and bowls in navy, Stockholm, rather than the expected USA, beige and red. Finish the look off perfectly in 1997 by a husband & wife team) has with coordinating napkins and tablecloths. the most beautiful lifestyle collection that You can even extend your kitchen styling adds effortless New England influences with complimenting tea towels, aprons & to any interior. Whether updating your ovenmits. bedroom or dining room there is a collection to suit every taste, town or We can also help super style your country; their signature style can be bathroom with the softest towels in adapted to enhance any home interior. fluffy snowy white and signature stripes.

The iconic core collection enables you Beach towels are also available, the to adapt your existing decor and then by ideal poolside accessory to show off your adding additional touches from seasonal Lexington style away from home. Finally ranges you are able to tailor it to your own a beautiful range of cushions and throws unique style. add depth and texture to your individual room style.

The County town of Warwick is now the ultimate destination to see much of Lexington follows the tradition of superior what Lexington has to offer. Bed linen quality, without compromise. The brand comprises a luxurious array of duvets values are consequently expressed and pillowcases all in the highest through every detail and will appeal to quality cotton. Nautical inspired stripes, those appreciating luxury lifestyle brands floral prints, country checks & vintage at their very best. denim will add effortless style to your bedroom. Stan Matthews Design (www.

Hatton and Harding Interiors stanmatthewsdesign.com) have been 13A Old Square creating beautiful bespoke handcrafted furniture, including bedrooms, for Warwick over 25years so are the perfect setting CV34 4RA to showcase the Lexington bedding 01926 408892 collection. www.hattonandharding.co.uk

24

www.edgemagazine.org

Romance is Dead Homewares as Artwork

R

omance is Dead combines its love for fabrics with print design. It has one simple aim: to produce unique and interesting pieces for you, the customer.

RID has recently moved itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s headquarters to The Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham from Leeds. The company is thriving and we are thrilled to have such a company based in the West Midlands.

Sourcing fabric from across Britain and Europe, Romance is Dead transforms a wide variety of vintage or design-led fabrics into artwork for the home. Many of the products combine these fabrics with screen-printed images, selected and designed to complement the fabric they adorn.

As ideas flow and change, so do the prints. The process defines the product and ensures each item is a truly individual piece.

Romance is Dead can make products to order, and is happy to help you realise your interior decoration dreams.

www.romance-is-dead.com 07977 593311 info@romance-is-dead.com

April 2015

25

Chase Heating

Catering for all your heating needs

C

hase Heating are a local company specialising in wood-burning and multi-fuel stoves, offering a complete installation service from start to finish all under one roof from fully qualified HETAS installers.

Based in Pershore, with 45 years of experience, they offer a large range of cost effective and eco-friendly ways to heat your property and turn your house into a home.

The showroom features many stoves variying in style, Rayburn range cookers and recently Everhot electric cookers. There are working models on display to see, enabling customers to get a feel for what they can expect. Expert staff will spend time ensuring you make the right choice to suit your needs.

You will also find fireside accessories, hand carved stone fireplaces and a supply of fuels.

Chase Heating also stock complete flue systems at very affordable prices.

Take a trip down to the showroom Monday-Friday between 9am and 5pm, or on Saturdays from 9am to 1pm. You wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be disappointed.

Chase Heating Racecourse Road, Pershore, Worcestershire WR10 2EY 01386 555333 www.chaseheating.co.uk

26

www.edgemagazine.org

$ $!! %" $ $%$$%% # "#% $$%# " $$ $%

Hillscourt is set in the beautiful Lickey Hills, just on the outskirts of Birmingham, offering a unique wedding/function venue.

HILLSCOURT Hillscourt has become an increasingly popular wedding venue in recent years and offers a warm and friendly environment.

We pride ourselves on quality service at affordable prices.

The centre has been refurbished to a high standard over recent years.

Excellent

catering licensed bar Complimentary bridal suite 55 en-suite bedrooms Attractive grounds and gardens Secure car parking Friendly and helpful staff Good value for money Fully

ALSO LICENSED FOR CIVIL CEREMONIES Hillscourt, Rednal, Birmingham B45 8RS. Tel: 0121 457 6100 Fax: 0121 457 6111 Website: www.hillscourt.co.uk

7RP &RRN &DUSHWV

2SHQ 0RQ )UL DP SP 6DWXUGD\ DP SP

7

ZZZ WRPFRRNFDUSHWV FR XN

+8*( 6(/(&7,21 62/,' 5(387$7,21 7RP &RRN &DUSHWV LV D IDPLO\ UXQ EXVLQHVV WKDW KDV D KXJH VHOHFWLRQ RI &$53(76 9,1</6 DQG /$0,1$7(6 2XU H[WHQVLYH Ă&#x20AC;RRULQJ SURGXFW UDQJH VSUHDGV DFURVV PDQ\ OHDGLQJ EUDQGV DQG FDWHUV IRU ERWK GRPHVWLF DQG FRPPHUFLDO XVDJH $ IXOO ÂżWWLQJ DQG PHDVXULQJ VHUYLFH LV DYDLODEOH DQG ZH DUH KDSS\ WR JLYH \RX D IXOO ZULWWHQ TXRWDWLRQ ZLWKRXW REOLJDWLRQ

1HZ

6SULQJ 6HDVRQ )ORRULQJ 1RZ LQ 6WRFN

&$// ,1 $7 285 %/$&.0,167(5 6+2:5220

%ODFNPLQVWHU %XVLQHVV 3DUN %ODFNPLQVWHU (YHVKDP :RUFHVWHUVKLUH :5 5( April 2015

27

Photography shows typical Studio apartments

The New Height of Luxury Flexible living at The Cube

S

earching for the ideal living space in the city-centre is often a challenging and laborious process. Properties across the city tend to offer one or more benefits including location, secure parking and sleek interiors, however, finding one property that offers all of these benefits, is hard to come by.

The Cube’s unveiling of their newly dressed studio show apartment is expected to receive huge interest from potential buyers. The stylish new interior, designed by Claude Hooper, will raise the bar on luxury living. Packaged with The Cube’s unique automated car park and city-centre location, the new apartment will become the perfect solution for those seeking to live, work and play in the city.

As well as revealing the new studio apartment, The Cube are also unveiling their ‘Pad’; a contemporary living space, tailor made for the travelling business-person. The ‘Pad’ has been designed as an efficient living space with effective storage solutions and an inspiring interior that creates character and charm.

Regular travel to and from Birmingham amounts to large accommodation bills and extra hassle. Time is wasted searching for competitive hotel rates and making reservations.

For weeks away on business, planning and packing your wardrobe requirements can also create unnecessary

28

www.edgemagazine.org

complications. Creating a base away from home at The Cube is a perfect solution. Convenience, flexibility and long-term affordability are just some of the added benefits to the purchase of the ‘Pad’.

The Cube’s city-centre location is within easy reach of Birmingham’s desirable shopping destination The Mailbox, and after completion of the current developments, the latest fashion and restaurant brands are sure to provide an exciting addition to the purchase of one of The Cube’s luxury apartments.

Interested parties are asked to contact agents Knight Frank and Centrick for further details.

BRINDLEYPLACE A SHORT CANAL STROLL (5 MINUTE WALK)

THE MAILBOX

ON YOUR DOOR STEP...LITERALLY (1 MINUTE WALK)

LIVE AT THE HEART OF THE CITY IN 2015 IT’S AN EXCITING YEAR FOR BIRMINGHAM WITH MAJOR NEW ATTRACTIONS OPENING ACROSS THE CITY. AS WELL AS BOASTING SOME OF BIRMINGHAM’S BEST BARS AND RESTAURANTS, THE CUBE IS IDEALLY PLACED TO ENJOY ALL THAT THE CITY HAS TO OFFER. VISIT OUR SHOWHOME AND EXPERIENCE FOR YOURSELF A TRULY CENTRAL LOCATION.

BULLRINGG

HOP, SKIP P AND A JUMP (8 MINUTE WALK)

HOMES FROM

£99,950

*

VIEWING BY APPOINTMENT

GRAND CENTRAL A STONE’S THROW (5 MINUTE WALK)

0121 200 2220 0121 347 6116 WWW.THECUBE.CO.UK

OPENING LATE 2015 *Price correct at time of publication. Walking distances are approx only

April 2015

29

City retreat

marriot_light_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±"'»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '"€

T

At the Birmingham Marriott

marriot_light_italic_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" €

Megan Ace and Lucie Abu-Zalaf

his month, Lucie and I had the extra treat of room and instantly felt at ease, but nothing could going to The Marriot Spa together. As mothers compare to the Jacuzzi. I had an hour to kill before my AT massage andBIRMINGHAM I spent the majority of it sitting in ROMANTIC ELEGANCE THE of some-what hyperactive 18 month old there, happily gazing around at the calm comings toddlers, you’ll appreciate how this assignment was an marriott_med_italic_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ MARRIOTT HOTEL. ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? and goings.

It was just what was needed to begin to å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ absolute delight for us both. Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±"'»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € unwind and I couldn’t have thought of a better Spend time with your someone special and make your Valentine's Day one way to marriott_bold_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>?

We are late. The infamous Hagley Road sees us spend a rainy and cold Thursday morning.

The time åç´ƒ©˙ˆ˚¬µ˜øœ®ß†¨¥`¡™£¢§¶•ªº–“‘«…æ÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜،‰Íˇ¨„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ to remember Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±"'»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ € bumper to bumper for most of'"the way and our went by in a heartbeat and after drying off briefly marriott_bold_italic_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ anxiety levels are increasing. We suppress it with lounging around, it was my turn to go and get really ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? åç´ƒ©˙ˆ˚¬µ˜øœ®ß†¨¥`¡™£¢§¶•ªº–“‘«…æ÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜،‰Íˇ¨„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ a bag of Maltesers, a packet of Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±"'»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" €Munchies and an Enjoy an overnight stay with breakfastpampered. in one of our beautiful Marriott bedrooms and enjoy marriot_condensed_light_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ inappropriately large bag of crisps. It doesn’t really ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? a bottle of sparkling wine in your room before enjoying a sumptuous romantic 4 course å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ help, ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ rather makes us feel slightly nauseous. Lesson I opted for to split my treatments and go for a 30 Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € dinner with coffee and chocolate. minute facial and 30 minute massage, again with learnt? Probably not. marriot_condensed_medium_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>?

Stacey. I had been suffering from a very persistent å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € We are greeted in the rather grand, wood paneled headache leading up to our day and really hoped that marriot_condensed_bold_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ reception of The Marriot by a very smiley team couple. and ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? the14/02/14 massage would tension and hopefully 13/02/15 £154 per £194ease perthecouple.

Dinner å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ the hotel manager, who quite literally took us by Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" € relieve it somewhat, seeing Stacey’s slight frame, I only package at opted £30.00 per person include the hand, sat us down and told us to waitavailable for our for medium to firmto pressure.

Allathat remains beautician. He knew we needed to relax and he be said on that is not to judge a book by its cover. glass of sparkling wine ontoarrival couldn’t have been more attentive.

I could actually feel the muscles relaxing and with To make a reservation call 0121 452 1144 Stacey confirming pressure and products to me along Stacey, our bright, young and informative beautician I could not have been in a better place.

Dinner reservations must be made atthe timeway, of booking. approaches us and we immediately start to relax. We can tell we are in excellent hands. ‘It’s no problem After rejoining my partner in crime, who had you’re late’ she says, ‘I can work around it.’ incidentally dozed off on a lounger, we relaxed for a little longer around the pool, before heading upstairs I opt for the facial, the ultimate relaxation for me. to the West 12 for our Afternoon Tea. Seated in a Stacey is full of information and is willing to share comfortable booth by the window, not only was it it. She talks through the Decleor product and apparent that we were both much more relaxed than recommends what’s best for my skin type. She doesn’t when we arrived, but the weather had also cleared sell, a huge skill in my book. We fill in the mandatory up- perfect! form about my health, she hands me my robe and slippers and leaves the room whilst I get comfortable. Afternoon tea arrived promptly and we were greeted with fine tea (well, I had coffee, not being a tea fan) The room is warm, candle lit and smells wonderful. and a selection of delicacies. From smoked salmon She begins and I drift in and out of the land of nod. to paté and much more importantly, beautiful scones Stacey continues to gently talk me through what she’s with cream and jam and a cheesecake style slice of about to do next, checking that I’m happy with the heaven each which although I’m certain had more treatment, the pressure and the product. calories and sugar than I care to imagine, tasted absolutely divine. Service was efficient and friendly It ends with a full-faced, oatmeal facial. It really and it was the perfect way to finish off a lovely is edible – if only I’d not had those Maltesers. A morning. lightweight muslin mask covers your eyes, nose and mouth (optional) and then the oats are pasted on top.

The weighty gu sits wonderfully warm on my face and whatever it’s doing to me, I know it’s doing me good. Birmingham Marriott marriott_med_abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz`1234567890-=[]\;’,./ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ~!@#$%^&*()_+{}|:”<>? å∫ç∂´ƒ©˙ˆ∆˚¬µ˜øπœ®ß†¨√∑≈¥Ω`¡™£¢∞§¶•ªº–≠“‘«…æ≤≥÷ ÅıÇÎ´Ï˝ÓˆÔÒ˜Ø∏Œ‰Íˇ¨◊„˛Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±”’»ÚƯ˘¿ Á¸`⁄‹›fifl‡°·‚—±"'»ÚƯ˘¿|áéíóúâêîôûàèìòùäëïöüÿãñõÁÉÍÓÚÀÈÌÒÙÄËÏÖÜŸÑÃÕÂÊÎÔÛ ”“’‘ '" €

.

12 Hagley Road,

While Megan was being pampered in the treatment room, I changed into my swimming costume, slippers Five Ways, Birmingham and robe and went to check out the rest of the spa facilities at the Marriott. I first headed into the steam B16 8SJ BIRMINGHAM MARRIOTT HOTEL Birmingham,

30

0121 452 1144

www.edgemagazine.org Subject to availabiilty. Offer valid on 13th and 14th February 2015 only. Pre payment required at time of booking for diners only

April 2015

31

Garden Magic The art of topiary Karl Strawbridge

T

opiary is the horticultural art of training and clipping evergreen foliage into a clearly defined shape. It is an art form of a living sculpture.

Although often used historically around the grandest of houses it is now something that is readily available for todays homes. Topiary can make a very bold and dramatic statement when situated either side of a door or gateway. Estate gardeners in the past would show off their horticultural skills by creating clipped structures or animals and birds as a centrepiece of their craft.

Today Box balls and cones have become again a very fashionable accessory in the garden, you can get a great selection of styles to suit every budget. Mainly evergreen they can be grown in Yew (Taxus baccata), Holly (Illex) or Box (Buxus sempervivens) which makes a statement without you having to do much, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lazy gardeners plant but if you do not use box then any small leaved evergreen shrub can be used for topiary. They can look truly stunning and can be used in the smallest of spaces, even in a tiny garden and they are not a lot of work to look after, just clip once a year in early or late summer to keep its shape, perhaps a little more regular if you like a sharp shape and more so on the faster growing species.

All will add height and perhaps humour to the garden and all will add structure.

Knot gardens became very popular during Tudor times. The garden was formed by introducing differing coloured Box planted in criss crossing patterns so it appeared that ribbons of hedges had been tied in knots, highly scented herbs were then planted in the gaps to give a tapestry of colour, truthfully yourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not going to create a knot garden over night but some of the more simpler features can be formed quickly by growing your topiary though a preformed wire shape, which are readily available.

The added benefit of evergreen topiary is that you have structure in the garden during the winter when there is little else to entertain the eye.

With a light dusting of snow or frost your topiary can look very special, if you place them near your entrance, a drape of fairy lights at Christmas can utilise your topiary to good festive effect.

Having gained experience of clipping your cones, balls and spirals you can be a bit more adventurous and start training it into a different shape or form, even your very own Peacock, it may not be as hard as you think, you just need patience.

Wagonhouse Gardens The Jinney Ring Craft Centre Hanbury Road Hanbury Worcestershire B60 4BU

An apology from the editorial team Last month we mistakenly published an image in our gardening article which was wrong.

The mistake was entirely the fault of the editorial team and bears no standing on the impeccable knowledge of Mr Karl Strawbridge, who authored the article.

I would like to take this opportunity to apologise to Mr Strawbridge directly and publically, but also thank him for his continued contribution to the magazine.

Sincerely, Michael Abu-Zalaf Editor-in-chief

32

www.edgemagazine.org

THE MOWER YOU CANT LIVE WITHOUT

Introducing the robotic lawn mower, its fast efficient and intelligent...

Vale Gardens Ltd

Tel:01386 831000

www.valegardens.co.uk April 2015

33

COUNTDOWN BEGINS TO RHS MALVERN SPRING FESTIVAL 2015

2

015 heralds the 30th anniversary of the RHS Malvern Spring Festival, which is taking place at the Three Counties Showground from 7-10 May. Visitors can expect stunning show gardens alongside award-winning nurseries and an abundance of garden and food celebrities and experts.

RHS Malvern is the first major RHS event of the season and gardening and food royalty take centre stage at the Festival Theatre over the course of the show. BBC Gardeners’ World’s Carol Klein and Joe Swift share their bountiful knowledge together with practical advice from Jim Buttress (Great British Allotment Challenge) and The One Show’s Christine Walkden.

Children’s favourites CBBC Blue Peter Gardener Chris Collins and CBeebies star Ben Faulks as Mr Bloom will be inspiring budding gardeners and encouraging them to get their fingers dirty.

“It’s in a matchless setting, has a wonderful atmosphere and always sets off Spring to a flying start.” Alan Titchmarsh MBE The gardening talent is joined by a bevy of fine foodies including the outstanding Chef Raymond Blanc from Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons, Masterchef’s Gregg Wallace and River Cottage’s Mark Diacono. Heading up the homegrown talent is the Cotswold Chef Rob Rees, who will be presiding over The Kitchen Garden Hub in the Festival Food & Drink Pavillion along with artisan food producers from across the UK.

Set against the backdrop of the picturesque Malvern Hills the wow factor show gardens are always a number one destination for visitors. RHS Malvern has a long standing reputation as a platform for up and coming design talent with designers such as Diarmuid Gavin, Chris Beardshaw and Paul Hervey-Brookes all taking their first steps at the show and this year more gold medals are expected than ever before.

The iconic Floral Marquee is home to 80 of the finest nurseries from the UK and abroad. Visitors can delight in the displays and stock up on old favourites and new varieties launched at the show. Following on from a successful introduction in 2014, ‘The Potting Bench’ will once again return for 2015. Hosted by Reg Moule, this area is dedicated to advice and information on all things green fingered.

Get Going, Get Growing returns to educate and inspire with workshops and demonstrations for novice gardeners hosted by Martin Fish, Chris Collins and Christine Walkden. RHS Gold medal winning designer Jon Wheatley will create three show gardens, a Wildflower, Kitchen and Front garden.

The festival feel continues on the Festival Green where visitors will enjoy a ‘notonthehighstreet’ type of shopping experience, browse arts and crafts stalls and toe tap to the bandstand musicians whilst enjoying a selection of goodies from the street food stalls.

RHS Malvern Spring Festival takes place from Thursday May 7 until Sunday May 10. For more information on ticket prices, please call 01684 230128 or visit www.rhsmalvern.co.uk

Image courtesy of Jonathan Buckley

34

www.edgemagazine.org

7-10 MAY 2015

BE INSPIRED BY SPRING

DAZZLING SHOW GARDENS FLORAL MARQUEE WITH FINEST QUALITY PLANTS FOR SALE EXPERT ADVICE & DEMONSTRATIONS DISCOVER FOOD, CRAFT, ART, MUSIC & MORE

Three Counties, Malvern, WR13 6NW, 7–10 May 2015 It’s closer than you think, only 15 mins from M5/M50 Tickets from £16 BOOK NOW rhsmalvern.co.uk 01684 230 126 Three Counties registered charity no. 511868

RHS registered charity no. 222879/SCO38262

April 2015

35

David Dennis Racing A firm favourite Michael Abu-Zalaf

D

avid Dennis is a name that has become synonymous with success over the last decade, primarily as a jockey, but also, more recently, as a trainer. Since setting up Tyre Hill Racing Stables just outside Hanley Swan in Worcestershire in 2013, David and his team have been working tirelessly to make it one of the ultimate training facilities in the country and where racehorses can be sent to get the best out of them. With 37 winners so far, 26 of which have been this season alone, the record of this racing stable proudly speaks for itself already.

One of the horses that has helped David to reach this tally of winners so quickly is Roman Flight. This 7yo gelding has won 3 times since joining David and was his first ever runner & indeed winner at Cheltenham back in October. Roman Flight represented the yard as their debut Cheltenham Festival contender this March and was running a huge race before unfortunately falling at the last.

He will now head to the Crabbieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Grand National meeting at Aintree in April.

Other names to have headlined the David Dennis role of honour are Marjuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Quest, a four time winner over hurdles, Steel Summit who has notched up an

36

www.edgemagazine.org

impressive 6 wins in only 7 months over both fences & hurdles as well as Maller Tree, Un Anjou and Key To The West who are all on three wins each over the past season and a half. There are plenty of youngsters in the yard who are beginning to shine in their early careers such as Doctor Phoenix, already twice a winner, Final Nudge & Cyclop, not to mention Set The Trend, who now a 9yo and having been a multiple winner on the flat won impressively over hurdles on just his second start over obstacles at Ludlow earlier in March.

These horses are just a few of the 30 strong team that David currently has in his care and with a yard expansion on the cards, there promises to be even more opportunities for all types of owners to come and get involved with. Horse racing can be a great social event for groups of friends who like to get together to experience the thrill of racehorse ownership as well as providing a great corporate hospitality option to all types of businesses. There really is a form of ownership for everyone.

A horseman in the truest sense of the word, David uses his wealth of knowledge, experience and understanding of the industry to achieve results for racehorse owners. With over

10 years as a national hunt jockey and a record of high profile wins, David has excellent knowledge of the racing world which he utilises when training racehorses. In order to get the best from the animal they are working with, David and his team pride themselves on using a holistic training approach which uses a wide range of methods to ensure optimum fitness levels of the horses, including regular use of the horse walker and equine pool.

With world class expertise you would naturally expect world class facilities and Tyre Hill Racing Stables does not disappoint. The three different length gallops available to choose from, ensures horses can undertake a variety of different exercise routines to bring out their natural abilities and maintain peak fitness. The three furlong wood chip gallop is mainly used in wet weather and is perfect for teaching young racehorses how to breathe properly during racing conditions, a vital prerequisite in preparation for their racing careers.

Whilst the four and six furlong Polytrack gallops are used for more intensive and faster work; the Polytrack surface was actually sourced from Lingfield Park when they resurfaced in 2012.

The gallops at Tyre Hill Racing Stables are privately owned which means that the horses have full access to them year round. The Polytrack surface features portable EasyFix hurdles and fences to guarantee ideal underfoot conditions for horses all year round. Being an ex-jump jockey David is a great believer that, in jump races, “if you don’t jump, you don’t win” and schools his horses on a weekly basis throughout the year to achieve the best results. The stable also boasts its very own 3 bay starting stalls, an essential when training horses to jump out of the stalls before they run in flat races.

The indoor school offers the perfect complement to the outdoor training regime offered at the stables and enables training to continue in all weather conditions. The heated building allows the horses to warm up naturally, it is used to assess how they are moving before they go to the gallops for their cantering work. It also offers the option of loose schooling, which is particularly helpful in teaching younger horses to jump.

The equine pool is an essential part of the training regime at David Dennis Racing and is used frequently, with a brand new filtration system it helps horses to rehabilitate after training or injury. This is because water buoyancy helps to relieve pressure on joints, bones and ligaments. So it’s no surprise that many horses find swimming an enjoyable experience. With enough resistance to ensure a thorough workout, swimming can help horses to improve their stamina and maintain cardio vascular fitness. It’s also a great way to build muscle tone and improve respiration.

April 2015

37

Other great training aids include the indoor five bay horse walker and the equine treadmill, both are regularly used to maintain fitness whatever the weather conditions might be.

The horse walker in particular is used on a daily basis, as it improves and helps to build up the strength of the horses without working too hard. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a great way for horses to relax and cool down after exercising without putting added strain on their muscles; the walker is used to warm up horses before swimming and after to dry off. The Equine treadmill on the other hand adds variety to the horsesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; daily physical exercise and is a great training aid. The treadmill encourages horses to use different muscle groups and can be adjusted at the flick of a button.

outside the village of Hanley Swan, the stables are within easy access of local racecourses including Cheltenham, Worcester, Stratford and Chepstow.

The solarium uses infrared bulb heaters to offer horses using it a wealth of restorative benefits, such as improving circulation and relaxing tense muscles. With a similar effect as the sun, but without the harmful UV rays, the solarium provides horses with the vitamin D they need to absorb calcium, thus maintaining healthy joints and bones, it also makes a great natural complement to the post injury healing process.

Tyre Hill Racing Stables

When not in training, horses are turned out onto more than 50 acres of paddocks to enjoy the tranquil and beautiful surroundings. Located at the foot of the Malvern Hills just

info@ddracing.co.uk

38

www.edgemagazine.org

Tyre Hill Stables has recently applied for planning permission to convert an existing building on site into a 30 stable block.

With the increase in capacity the stables are looking forward to welcoming new owners and are now looking to take on more horses in need of training. For anyone interested in their services, please contact David Dennis Racing at:

Hanley Swan Worcestershire WR8 0EQ 01684 310 565 07867 974 880

Beautiful Worcestershire Gardens FECKENHAM FLOWER AND GARDEN FESTIVAL16th – 17th May 2015

T

his hugely successful triennial festival, which is now entering its 30th year, raises funds for the Church Maintenance Fund of our historic 12th Century parish church of St. John the Baptist.

Feckenham is a charming Domesday village situated along the Saltway that runs from Droitwich to Alcester (B4090).

At its largest the historic Forest of Feckenham extended south to the Avon and south-west to the gates of Worcester once employing Geoffrey Chaucer as Clerk of Works and Keeper of the Lodge, in 1389.

As many listeners to The Archers will know Hanbury (Ambridge) is just down the road so this is most definitely Archers territory, with many similar storylines!

Our last Festival, in 2012, was

Cathy Fisher featured in the BBC’s Gardeners World Programme.

In 2012, thirty six gardens were open to visitors and there will be a similar number open again this year. Many of our gardens are hidden and vary enormously in size and style, from tiny courtyard gardens to those rather larger.

This variety creates a huge amount of interest together with an element of surprise. There will also be a magnificent Flower Festival in the Church themed ‘Reflections of village life.

On The Square there will be stands for: well known local nurseries selling plants; The Barn traditional and contemporary garden supplies; Feckenham Forest History Society; and Churchfields’ Farmhouse Ice Cream. There will be W.I. teas in the Village Hall and a pig roast/ barbeque.

Our award winning community Village Shop and the two delightful public houses will be open all day.

The Festival will be open from 12 to 6pm, Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th May. Admission - £5.00 per person children under 16 free.

Visitors should follow all signs to the Festival Car Park in the village, adjacent to Winfields Store, where upon admission they will be provided with a detailed programme together with lapel stickers for admission to the Flower Festival and all the open gardens. Disabled parking available.

Feckenham is located off the B4090 Alcester to Droitwich Road.

For Satnav users (GPS), enter postcode B96 6QH. www.feckenham.com April 2015

39

Sporting Man What the well-dressed man should wear to a sports event Adrian Barrows

W

ith the Six Nations Rugby having just drawn to a close and with the horse racing festivals at Cheltenham and Aintree hot on its heels, thoughts turn to what you should wear to a sports event if you want to make an impression.

Of course at events like Royal Ascot and the Henley Regatta, there are strict dress codes if you want to be seen in certain areas but for Cheltenham and Aintree there are no dress codes as such but that doesn’t mean you should be a slouch.

Looking smart, appropriate for the occasion and sartorially elegant is a good standard to set for any sports event, especially if there is going to be an element of entertaining, wining and dining included in the mix. So, with this in mind, what should the well-dressed man be wearing to sports events?

This is where that ubiquitous phrase ‘smart casual’ comes into play. Looking smart but not overly formal is the order for the day. This means wearing a jacket or blazer, flannels, needlecord trousers, smart jeans or chinos, a collared shirt with a tie being optional. Smart Oxford shoes or brogues would be the footwear of choice and definitely no trainers or pumps.

40 www.edgemagazine.org

We are in early spring so an overcoat could be worn or kept to hand. If you want to look every inch the country gentleman, then a tweed sports jacket should be worn together with cords or cavalry-twill trousers.

Regarding the colour palette, dark colours, earth tones and heavier fabrics are a stable during this time of year.

You can enliven this palette with a splash of colour from your shirt and tie or handkerchief (if you decide to wear them). You could also inject some colour with a well chosen waistcoat as long as you don’t take it too far!

Whether you are in the grandstand, the winner’s enclosure or the entertainment marquee, looking your best for a sports event is what any discerning male should be focused on; whether you back a winner or your team wins is merely incidental!

For more information about being a sharp dressed man please see www.thebespoketailor.co.uk Adrian Barrows 07968 438717

Adrian Barrows

*LEVRQ *XLGH 7KH /DEHO 6FRWW 6HLGHQVWLFNHU 7HQGHUIRRW 2[IRUG /HDWKHU *HR ) 7UXPSHU

zKhZ EK͘ϭ ^h/d ^hWW>/ Z /E tKZ ^d Z

56 $ ( <

* 1 , 7 &(/(%5$ ,1 %86,1(66

ϭϲ͕ dŚĞ &ŽƌĞŐĂƚĞ͕ tŽƌĐĞƐƚĞƌ tZϭ ϯY

ϬϭϵϬϱ Ϯϴϯϳϱ

)- :GMLAIM= :=<JGGEK

F=O L9KLAF? JGGE 9F< E=FMK

=N=FLK >GJ MH LG )-(

+$03721 0$125 6+$'2:%522. /$1( +$03721 ,1 $5'(1 62/,+8// % (1 6$7 1$9 86( % '4 ,1)2#+$037210$125 (8 ::: +$037210$125 (8 7:,77(5 #+$03721 0$125 )$&(%22. &20 +$037210$125+27(/ April 2015

41

© OT Deauville Patrice Le Bris

Delightful Deauville Flybe has flights to Deauville-Normandy from Birmingham (from 23rd June), Bournemouth (from 18th May) and Exeter (from 25th June).

With a flight time of just one hour and fares starting from £24.99 one way including taxes and charges, the region of Normandy is more accessible than ever.

I

t’s the place where Coco Chanel first started selling hats, where the fascination with horseracing is everything and where the beaches, clubs and designer shops are reminiscent of St Tropez: welcome to Deauville.

The fashionable Normandy town of Deauville has been the stamping ground of well-shod Parisians since the late 19th century. It was an agricultural village overlooking the sea until 1858, when the Duke de Morny transformed this seaside backwater into an ‘elegant kingdom’ that would attract elite visitors from the Parisian aristocracy.

In four years, Deauville changed from a rural village into a coastal resort, complete with magnificent neo-Norman villas, a racecourse and a rail link to the capital. A casino and a handful of luxury hotels followed and by the 1920s, the town was elegant and sought-after.

42

www.edgemagazine.org

This was where the designer Coco Chanel launched her stellar career, selling avantgarde hats to the ladies who strolled along the seaside promenade, and where royalty went when they wanted to relax and soak up the sun on the Normandy Riviera.

Today, Deauville is one of France’s premier visitor resorts. Its greatest attraction is its coastline – a 1,400m-long sandy beach edged by a 1920s boardwalk and sprinkled with colourful sun umbrellas. Swimming in the Channel may be restricted to the summer season, but there’s plenty to do along the coast year-round.

Try splashing about in the 27-degrees Olympic-sized swimming pool, relaxing at the thalassotherapy spa or donning a wetsuit and having a go at sand-yachting, windsurfing or sea-kayaking.

The jetset tends to congregate at Deauville, thanks to the town’s reputation as a yachting mecca. You’ll see the most sailors and yachters during Deauville International Week, a top-level international sporting tournament.

Aside from the sweeping beach and the trend-setting visitors, the town is best known for its equestrian connections.

There are two racetracks – La Touques and Clairefontaine – both of which have a full calendar of events during the racing season. France’s top polo event, the Lucien Barrière Deauville Polo Cup, is held in the town, as well as the international event RIDE, which features jumping, eventing and driving competitions. The International Traditional-Carriage Competition attracts more than 30 teams from all over the world, while the yearling auctions are a chance to see some of the world’s most prized horses change hands.

For culture junkies, there’s the American Film Festival – a serious rival to the celebrity studded Cannes Festival, the World Bridge Festival, the Books & Music Fair and two classical music festivals.

After a morning relaxing on the beach or sipping a cocktail on the boardwalk, head to Rue des Villas or Place Morny for a spot of boutique shopping. You’ll find big-name brands such as Ralph Lauren, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada and Hermès, as well as a smattering of stylish cafés.

If you’re on a budget, try the adjacent fishing village of Trouville or the larger stores just outside Deauville. And don’t miss the market on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday, packed with fabulous local produce.

After a hard day playing on one of the four surrounding golf courses or chilling out in the spa, there’s no shortage of bars and clubs for partying. But for the real Deauville experience, you’ll need to spend a night at the Louis XVI-style Casino, full of big spenders.

Finally, make sure you take advantage of a longer stay in Deauville by visiting the surrounding area in Normandy. Head to Rouen with its magnificent cathedral and two recently opened attractions: The Panorama XXL takes you back to ancient Rome, while The Historial is a history centre dedicated to Joan of Arc. History buffs can follow in William the Conqueror’s footsteps at his birthplace in Falaise castle a short drive from Deauville then on to Caen with castle and abbeys and finally, Bayeux, home to the famous tapestry.

SURROUNDING AREAS Literally a stone’s throw from Deauville across the river Touques you’ll find the traditional fishing town of Trouville-surMer. The town’s wide sandy beaches, winding streets and Belle Epoque architecture have inspired French writers and artists from Flaubert to Boudin.

The beach at Trouville was the first in Normandy to have a boardwalk in 1867 and the town has been attracting sea bathers since the 19th century. Today Trouville is a favourite family seaside resort offering a range of water sports, guided boat trips and an activities club for children.

Head east along the coast from Deauville and in less than 30 minutes (or 15 minutes from Deauville airport) you’ll arrive at the picturesque town of Honfleur. Favourite subject of the Impressionist artists, this charming fishing port looks much as it did when Monet visited. For those in search of culture, the Eugène Boudin Museum displays the works of some of the great Impressionist artists. A little further afield, art lovers can also soak up the mood of the Impressionists in Le Havre, Etretat with its superb cliffs and Giverny home to Monet’s world famous garden.

A few miles inland from Deauville will bring you to Normandy’s picture-perfect countryside of the Pays d’Auge. This is where three of Normandy’s A.O.C (controlled designation of origin) cheeses originate - Camembert, Pont l’Evêque and Livarot- and where you’ll find most of the region’s distilleries.

The 24-mile Cider Route signposts distilleries that will open their cellars and offer visitors a tipple of their cider, calvados or pommeau. The route will take you through villages of half-timbered houses, Norman cattle amongst the apple orchards and impressive châteaux where the 2015 Tour de France will pass in July.

Normandy’s historical capital of Rouen and the unmissable D-Day beaches are all but an hour’s drive from Deauville airport with the unforgettable MontSaint-Michel, a magical place to visit a little further afield. Arriving into Deauville offers the ideal solution for a hassle-free seaside family holiday or a cultural getaway. With a great range of accommodation options from affordable self-catering, to friendly B&Bs and luxurious 5* hotels, Normandy has something to suit everyone.

© OT Deauville Patrice Le Bris

© OT Deauville Patrice Le Bris

© OT Deauville Patrice Le Bris

© Franck Goddard

www.normandy-tourism.org

April 2015

43

DON’T MISS THIS Our guide to spring/summer festivals

The Big Feastival Foodie Festival at Birmingham’s Cannon Hill Park

Foodies Festival, the UK’s largest celebration of food and drink is coming to Birmingham Cannon Hill Park on 15th, 16th and 17th May this year.

On the music bill, The Big Feastival welcomes Groove Armada (DJ Set), to headline the main stage on Friday 28. Fresh from winning Best British Female at the BRIT Awards last week, iconic songstress Paloma Faith will bring the weekend to a close on Sunday 30 August. With the Saturday Special Guest Headliners still to be revealed, this year’s festival is set to be the best yet.

Each year the ever-growing festival sees tens-of-thousands of visitors flock from the surrounding areas to feast on a vast array of culinary activities, making Foodies Festival the social event of the summer. We have top chefs cooking in the Chef’s Theatre; wine, beer, and cocktails in the Drink’s Theatre and kids can learn to cook too in the Children’s Cookery Theatre.

Also on the bill and making her debut at The Big Feastival this year is popstar Ella Eyre, Grandmaster Flash, The Cuban Brothers, Norman Jay MBE and beat boxers Duke.

A new Tasting Theatre is an exciting addition to the festival with masterclasses designed by bloggers and experts introducing festivalgoers to the latest foods and flavours including Raw Food, Japanese Soul and Vegan. Local experts will also guide visitors through Oyster Shucking, Mushroom Foraging and Bee Keeping.

Email us for a chance of winning VIP tickets info@edgemagazine.org www.foodiesfestival.com

44

The Big Feastival, the ultimate music, food and family festival of the summer returns for its fourth year on the farm from 28-30 August. The Bank Holiday Weekend extravaganza promises great music, mouth-watering food and drink experiences and a fully-charged, fun-filled program of entertainment for all ages.

www.edgemagazine.org

www.jamieoliver.com/thebigfeastival

Asparafest this May

Worcestershire’s Aspara-tastic Music & Food Festival, Asparafest returns to Ashdown Farm, Evesham on Sat 30 & Sun 31 May. The line up includes The Wurzels, The Moulettes, Blackbeard’s Tea Party & Thrill Collins plus Family Fun with Junkfish, the Quack Pack, Easy Peasy Cookery School, Animal Magic, Falconry Days and much more.

With 2 music stages, family workshops, cookery kitchen with local & celebrity chefs, vintage vehicles, fun fair, craft and food stalls a plenty, real ale & cider festival, plus appearances from The WorldFamous Asparamancer, Asparafest is one of a kind!

Buy Early Bird tickets, including camping online: www.asparafest.co.uk

2015 Leamington Music Festival Weekend

Worcester Beer, Cider and Perry Festival 6th-8th August 2015

Great music takes over the Royal Pump Rooms Leamington from 1 to 5 May in the annual Festival Weekend promoted by Leamington Music. The Fitzwilliam String Quartet and pianist Anna Tilbrook play the opening concert to be followed by baritone Roderick Williams, Ensemble 360, Jana Novakova the Czech violinist, Michael Collins clarinet, Peter Donohoe piano, Simon Wallfisch baritone, the Shaham Erez Wallfisch Piano Trio and the Henschel String Quartet from Germany. Composers featured include Haydn, Schubert and Brahms plus some surprises and tickets are sold on www.royalspacentreandtownhall. co.uk or call 01926 334418.

CAMRA’s Worcester Branch organise one of the largest branch beer festivals in the country each year on the racecourse in the centre of Worcester City. In 2014 it served over 170 Real Ales and over 100 Real Draught Ciders and Perries.

CAMRA festivals feature casks of ale from British brewers tapped and ready for tasting using cash or a token system. Take your taste buds on a beer journey across Britain, but we suggest starting with the half-pint glasses if you hope to complete your journey while still standing on two feet. Put this year’s festival in your diary now. www.worcesterbeerfest.org.uk

An exclusive treat for visitors to this year’s Thame Food Festival

A real treat lies in store this summer at Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Raymond Blanc’s stunning Oxfordshire country house hotel at Great Milton. On Wednesday 1st July the legendary two Michelin star restaurant is laying on a special lunch and summer garden tour for visitors to this year’s Thame Food Festival, offering a truly unforgettable day out.

Tickets to this fantastic day cost just £195 each and can be booked by going to: www.thamefoodfestival.co.uk/garden-tourand-lunch-at-le-manoir/ where you can also find out more about the great foodie line up for this year’s event. But hurry, places for this exclusive treat are sure to go fast so make sure you book yours today.

The Thame Food Festival takes place from 9am to 5pm on Saturday 26th September 2015 in the heart of Thame town centre. For more information please go to www.thamefoodfestival.co.uk.

April 2015

45

Great British Food Festival at Ragley Hall 12th-13th September

The weekend will be taken over by 100 top local producers, a big serving of stunning hot food, real ale and wine bars, add a dash of craft and gift stalls, lots of activities for the kids. Top chef demos from the likes of Great British Bake Off finalist Luis Troyano and Master Chefs Luke Owen, stir in a cake competition and the popular Men Vâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Food, with lashings of excellent live music and mix together to make a lovely foodie family day out. The Great British Food Festival has attracted lots of producers showcasing the best in local, seasonal and speciality food and drink. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great opportunity to get a real taste of the best of Warwickshire and Great British produce - sample, enjoy and buy. www.greatbritishfoodfestival.com

Celebrating 30 years of Upton Jazz: bigger and better in June 2015

This June, the 30th Festival with Jazz on 4 days, starting on Thursday evening will take place in Upton. Tickets are now on sale. Eat, drink and enjoy Jazz this summer with local artists and musicians from afar. New for 2015 is the two evening concerts, which are included in the weekend ticket price. Just a few of the acts on stage this year are: Hot Banana, Statoil Big Band, Dixie Strollers, The Sammy Rimington International Band, Graham Hughes and his Dixieland Four, Savannah Jazz Band and Stockholm Stompers. For a full run down of the programme on this four day extravaganza, check the festivalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website. www.uptonjazz.co.uk

The Chequers Inn Fladbury

Easter Sunday 12-5pm bookings advised!

([SHULHQFHG 'LQQHU 3DUWLHV &DWHULQJ 6SHFLDOLVWV :HGGLQJV

/DYLVK %DQTXHWV %XIIHWV

:DNHV

7KHPHG &XLVLQH 1LJKWV

'LQQHU SDUWLHV

%XVLQHVV /XQFKHRQV

)OH[LEOH FDWHULQJ WR VXLW \RXU 1HHGV <RX WHOO XV \RXU %XGJHW DQG ZH ZLOO PDWFK WKH SHUIHFW FDWHULQJ SDFNDJH

&RQWDFW 5RQ /LQHV 7KH 6HFUHW .LWFKHQ &KXUFK 6WUHHW 8SWRQ XSRQ 6HYHUQ

VHFUHWNLWFKHQQPHVV#JPDLO FRP 46

www.edgemagazine.org

Live acoustic guitarist 2-5pm in the bar Open Bank Holiday all weekend + Monday lunch Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget about our function room, ideal for that special event 8 en-suite letting rooms Fresh fish/prime meat/family dining

Wednesday Dining Offer 2x loaded cheese & bacon burgers a pint or a glass of house wine ÂŁ20

01386 861 854 www.chequersinnfladbury.com

Chequers Inn Fladbury WR10 2PZ tspchef85@gmail.com

A REVOLUTIONARY HEARING AID THAT CAN HEAR LIKE YOUR EARS DO Lyric, the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first and only 100% invisible, 24/7 wearable, showerproof* hearing device is now avaliable at your local Worcester Hearing Centre NO BATTERIES TO CHANGE NO DAILY INSERTION REMOVAL REQUIRED SHOWERPROOF* CLEAR NATURAL SOUND QUALITY *Lyric is water resistant, not waterproof, and should not be completely submerged underwater.

Risk-Free 30-Day Trial - Arrange your assesment today!

CALL US ON

01905 617803

www.worcesterhearingcentre.co.uk

Worcester Hearing Centre, 5 Cornmarket, Worcester WR1 2DR

A selection of other Festival events in and around Droitwich during the fortnight include: Competition to find the best pie in Droitwich Wine and Cheese evening at St Andrews Town Hotel 25th June and Celebration of Local Food Dinner on 26th June.

Come Dine in Droitwich featuring local eateries Literary Festival and Edwardian Dinner Party Evening at the Chateau Impney both on 27th June Jazz evening at Gaudet Luce Golf Club on 3oth June Baroque Dinner at Hanbury Hall on 3rd July Farmers Market and Art in View in Victoria Square Droitwich on 4th July

Eat, drink and have fun

Independents Day at Webbs of Wychbold featuring local food producers on 4th July

Patrick Davis

www.droitwichspafestival.co.uk

Droitwich Spa Summer Festival 20th June to 5th July 2015

T

he Droitwich Spa Summer Festival preparations are well under way and there is a range of activities planned in to appeal to all ages and tastes and below is a selection of what to look forward to:

Friday 19th June – Norbury Theatre performance and beer tasting in Vines Park tickets from the Norbury Saturday 20th June - Food and Drink Festival Street Market will take place with up to 120 stalls; a demonstration kitchen featuring local and celebrity chefs; junior bake off and children’s food trail and street entertainment throughout the day – 48

www.edgemagazine.org

all in Droitwich Town centre. Plus in addition this year a Kids Food Zone and a Catering Village in Victoria Square. The event will be opened by Tom Parker-Bowles Food Writer and Critic and Charles Campion of BBC MasterChef.

Saturday and Sunday 20th and 21st June a Beer and Cider Festival will take place in Vines Park sponsored by Marston’s Brewery and supported by CAMRA. There will also be a selection of “food to go stalls” and an area for children featuring a bouncy castle, football and make your own smoothies on the smoothie bike. So come and make a day of it.

Big Picnic in aid of New Hope Children’s charity on Sunday 5th July If you want to know more about these events or book in visit the website:

Droitwich Spa Summer Festival Fortnight 19 June – 5 July A two week festival incorporating food and drink, music, arts and other events. Droitwich Spa town centre and local pubs, clubs and venues.

Friday 19 June

Thursday 25 June

Friday 3 July

Theatre performance and Beer Tasting

Wine and cheese evening

Baroque Dinner

St. Andrew’s Town Hotel

Hanbury Hall

Vines Park

Friday 26 June

Saturday 4 July

Saturday 20 June

Celebration of Local Food and Drink Dinner

Farmers’ Market

Food and Drink Festival 100 stalls, junior bake off, demonstration kitchen, live music and theatre performances

Beer and Cider Festival and Live Music Vines Park (from 4pm)

Sunday 21 June

St. Andrew’s Town Hotel

Saturday 27 June

Literary Festival and live music Town Centre

John Corbett Edwardian Dinner party

Beer and Cider Festival and Live Music

Chateau Impney Hotel

Vines Park

Jazz Evening

Tuesday 30 June

Victoria Square

Art in view Live art activity - competitions, demonstrations, painting, sculpture, exhibitions of work by local artists.

Victoria Square

Independents Day Webbs of Wychbold

Sunday 5 July

Big Picnic Lido Park

Gaudet Luce Golf Club

Follow us @droitwichfest | Like us on www.droitwichspafestival.co.uk

Droitwich Spa Festivals

April 2015

49

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Independent Bathroom Specialistâ&#x20AC;?

Tel:

SCREW FIX

EVESHAM TRADE CENTRE

COLLEGE

TOPPS TILES

EMS

JEWSONS

AMBULANCE STATION TO CHELTENHAM

FIELD

Monday to Saturday 8:00am - 5:00pm

TO EVESHAM TOWN CENTRE

MORRISONS

UNIT 2 | EVESHAM TRADE CENTRE | ST RICHARDS ROAD | EVESHAM | WR11 1XG

50

www.edgemagazine.org

Springtime at The Crown

C

ome and join us this Easter Sunday, we are offering 2 courses for £14 and 3 courses for £18, children eat for half price and we are also holding an Eater egg hunt with a gift to keep the little ones entertined!

The weekend of Friday 29th & Saturday 30th May we are very proud to be hosting our very first beer & cider festival supporting local breweries & charities including West Midlands Air Ambulance & local defibrillator cause with live music, BBQ, raffle prizes and childrens activities.

Our spring menu includes signature dishes such as the home made scotch egg served with runny yolk, our farmers ploughman’s, home-made gourmet burger with horseradish & chorizo and our duo of locally farmed pork- slowly braised belly & seared tenderloin set on creamed cabbage & bacon with apple puree, crackling & cider jus, sourced from Orchard Cottage Farm in Defford. Our customers tell us they are the best they've ever had in particular the scotch egg, ploughman's & the burger of late, come down and try for yourself! Cask marque awarded on all our real ales + an extensive range of specialist wines and spirits.

We have recently been awarded 100% from our Punch Taverns mystery guest, having been one of very few in the country to achieve this and the first to do so in the first six months of trading, exhibiting excellent food, drink, value, service and cleanliness.

The Crown Inn Peopleton, Pershore Worcestershire W10 2EE 01905 840 222 www.crowninnpeopleton.co.uk

7+( &52:1 ,11

Peopleton Ɣ Pershore Ɣ WR10 2EE Ɣ 01905 840 222 www.crowninnpeopleton.co.uk

Italian Night

1st Thursday of every month

Steak night 3rd Thursday every month buy 1 steak get second half price

New spring a la carte menu Senior lunches every Monday & Wednesday 2 courses £10 Village night every Tuesday evening - 2 courses £8.95

Daily specials and set price menu throughout the week @CrownPeopleton

/thecrowninnpeopleton

April 2015

51

BEST OF BRUNCH

If it’s a late breakfast or an early lunch, these light bite brunch spots are worth a trip.

Ostlers at No1 Sunday at Ostlers is total indulgence. Whether you’re there for Sunday brunch or lunch, you’ll be greeted with bottomless tea and coffee and a menu, which will make you want it all. The brunch menu includes all of your favourites, from scrambled eggs with smoked salmon to breakfast burritos, along with healthy omelette options, Tuscan steak and eggs and eggs florentine. Lunch is served from 12pm, which includes roast of the day along with a few of the reataurant’s regular a la carte options.

1 Severn Terrace Worcester WR1 3EH 01905 213 02

www.ostlersatnumber1.co.uk

Fat Bird’s Café There’s an extensive menu at Fat Bird’s Café, Leamington Spa, with lots of breakfast options and light lunches as well as mini platters, sandwiches, baguettes and bagels. Hot buttered crumpets, toasted waffles, breakfast butties and the Fat Bird signature breakfast. This is for those who love to brunch.

95 Warwick Street Leamington Spa CV32 4RJ 01926 312200 www.fatbirdscafe.co.uk

Bindles Brunch at Bindles in Worcester serves up classics like full English breakfasts, eggs Benedict, eggs Florentine and buttermilk pancakes with your choice of fresh berries or crispy bacon. If you’re on a health kick or you fancy something lighter, there’s oat porridge and Bindles’ homemade granola with berries, honey and Greek yoghurt. Try brunch at Bindles on Saturday and Sunday from 10am with papers, bottomless coffee and free Wi-Fi. 55 Sidbury Worcester WR1 2HU 01905 611120 www.bindles.co.uk

52

www.edgemagazine.org

The Almanack Not many pubs have mastered the art of breakfast and brunch but The Almanack in Kenilworth has done just that. Free range bacon and eggs, chorizo hash, toasted sourdough and great quality coffee are just some of things you can look forward to on this menu. The sausages are from Jimmy Butler and the eggs are locally sourced, of course. Enjoy brunch the Almanack way!

Abbey End North Kenilworth CV8 1QJ 01926 353637

www.thealmanack-kenilworth.co.uk

Boo Boo coffee This trendy coffee shop in Harborne is fast becoming the ultimate breakfast and brunch joint. Start your day right with Boo Boo’s poached eggs and avocado on a savoury muffin or treat yourself to one of the homemade pastries with coffee. And if you like what you have when you go for brunch, you’ll love the Boo Boo supper club; see Boo Boo’s Facebook page for more details.

27 Lordswood Road Harborne B17 9RA 0121 427 9777 www.booboocoffee.com

Relax or celebrate with our extensive drinks menu, from premium beers and ciders to cocktails, fine spirits, carefully selected wines and champagnes.

Come in & enjoy our exclusive menu for Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner or simply Grazing.

Edwards Bar and Kitchen 100 High Street, Worcester Tel. 01905 611950

Facebook: Edwards Bar and Kitchen Twitter: @EdwardsWorcs

For further information or bookings please visit www.edwardsbar.com April 2015

53

Totally Tapas

S

The Olive Branch Worcester

ituated within one of Worcester’s most historic buildings, The Olive Branch is easily one of the best restaurants in town. This year, they will be celebrating their third anniversary. If you have not had the pleasure of visiting there yet, then perhaps we should tell you a few reasons why to venture down there and try it out for yourself, we guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

Obviously the main reason people go to a restaurant is for the food, but The Olive Branch has so much more to offer. This Mediterranean Bistro celebrates seasonal ingredients and fresh flavours; just like its continental counterparts.

The lunch and evening menus bring together Spanish, Greek and Italian classics whilst showcasing new combinations created by the Head Chef.

Sharing boards including mezze and antipasti as well as the delicious house salads make the Olive Branch a great lunch stop to dine with friends. The à la carte menu offers tasty risotto noir and paella to share as well as steaks and Moroccan chicken. Add nibbles and warm bread for extra homemade treats from the kitchen.

Our favourite is the Tapas menu, with their daily special offer of five dishes available for £20, it is a perfect excuse to pop in after work or a shopping trip.

Enjoy a combination of paella, lamb koftas with tzatziki and Moroccan chicken skewers marinated in paprika, chilli, cumin, garlic and oregano. But best by far is the fried chorizo in olive oil; so simple, yet so delicious. You can add more if you like with plenty to choose from; sun-dried tomato houmous, king prawn pil pil, tortilla sacromonte and cod and pancetta fish cakes.

With desserts like tiramisu, limoncello cheesecake and affogato espresso, it would be hard to say no. All the ice creams are locally sourced and there is also a flavour of the day sorbet. If you like cocktails, there are some fantastic concoctions at The Olive Branch, like the Dirty Monk; a vodka, amaretto and frangelico cocktail served with ice in a martini glass. But nothing quite brightens your day like a Sicilian Sun Cocktail; Vodka, Peach Schnapps, orange, fresh lime juice and a touch of grenadine. Powerful and zesty, this one will lift you up.

The restaurant brings together the European bistro style with a modern feel that’s great for large groups or intimate dinners. There’s the wine bar too, so you can enjoy a drink before you’re seated or a cocktail after your meal. Food can even be served in the bar if you like the atmosphere. The Olive Branch also takes bookings for private parties, whether it’s a wedding reception, christening or birthday celebration, it’s a unique space that can accommodate any party.

Post-work drinks or a coffee in the courtyard, The Olive Branch is great for a meet up with friends or a full evening of eating and entertainment. If you are fond of music, they host an open mic night every Tuesday which has proved to be very popular.

6 Church Street Worcester Worcestershire WR1 2RH 01905 616669 www.olivebranchworcester.co.uk

54

www.edgemagazine.org

the

Olive Branch

April 2015

55

The Local Kitchen Everything that’s cooking in the four counties

The Little Coffee Bag Co.

Based in the Midlands and featuring on last year’s Dragon’s Den, The Little Coffee Bag Co. was born out of a desire to enjoy a luxurious ground coffee without the usual trouble and mess left afterwards. The Little Coffee Bag is designed to produce a cafetiere style coffee made for one. Each coffee bag has been individually wrapped and then packaged in to beautiful boxes and are available online or from Harvey Nicholls. www.thelittlecoffeebagco.com

BBC Good Food Show Summer, NEC Birmingham, 11 – 14 June 2015

The BBC Good Food Show Summer returns to the NEC Birmingham, promising to be one of the summer’s tastiest days out.

Highlights include: The Supertheatre Including Mary Berry, Gennaro Contaldo and Antonio Carluccio, James Martin, Tom Kerridge and Michel Roux Jr.

See new faces and renowned chefs demonstrating their favourite summer recipes.

And all tickets to the show include free entry to BBC Gardeners’ World Live, which is co-located at the NEC!

Coventry’s Lower Precinct will welcome a host of foodies on Saturday 25 April for its Great British Food Fair. The event will feature stalls from food experts across the local area, showcasing everything from cheese and cakes, to beers and burgers. The free event will take place on the Lower Ground of the precinct, giving shoppers the chance to try a great selection of food whilst browsing some of Coventry’s best stores. To find out more, visit

www.bbcgoodfoodshow.com

www.lowerprecinct.com

Producers’ Village The Producers’ Village is a huge speciality food market at the heart of the show, packed with small artisan producers.

Bakes & Cakes Village The Bakes & Cakes Village is an area devoted to all things baking.

Summer Kitchen Stage

56

New Food Fair for Coventry

www.edgemagazine.org

Heritage Motor Centre becomes the first Museum & Conference Centre to gain Coeliac UK Gluten Free accreditation

The Heritage Motor Centre is delighted to announce that they have become the first Museum & Conference Centre to gain ‘Coeliac UK GF (Gluten Free) accreditation’. The accreditation aims to make eating out stress-free for people with coeliac disease, an autoimmune disease caused by intolerance to gluten. The centre is now offering accredited gluten-free options in both its Café and for its conference delegates.

For more information about the Heritage Motor Centre, Museum and Conference Centre including its catering facilities please visit www.heritagemotor-centre.co.uk or call 01926 641188. For more information on Coeliac disease please visit www.coeliac.org.uk

Restaurant celebrates 15th anniversary An award winning Bromsgrove restaurant, Spice Valley Balti, celebrated its 15th anniversary in March. Customers, suppliers and local civic dignitaries joined staff at a celebratory event on March 29.

Spice Valley Balti is run by three brothers from the Uddin family – Gias, Monir and Muhammad. The restaurant offers diners authentic Indian cuisine in a stylish, modern setting. Whilst there is an extensive choice of classic cuisine and some more contemporary dishes, the success of the business has been built on a strong reputation for its Balti selection.

Harnessing thirty years of culinary experience executive chef Muhammad uses local, fresh ingredients where possible. These are blended with exotic herbs and spices to create a menu which entices customers back time and time again.

74, Worcester Road

Become wine expert in just one day!

Loki Wine’s highly popular introduction to wine course gives you the basics to start exploring the world of wine. The 2-hour course will provide you with the basics for learning about wine, how to choose from a restaurant list, how best to serve and enjoy wine, and a brief introduction to the world of food and wine matching. You will get to try some amazing wines so leave the car at home. As always, the course will be done in Loki’s usual informal light-hearted approach. Taking place on Monday 27 April, this event costs just £20 but places are limited so book now: www.lokiwine.co.uk.

Bromsgrove B61 7AG 01527 578989 www.spicevalleybalti.co.uk

April 2015

57

Pinotage Pleasure It’s time you knew how much Laura Clay Last month I had a little gripe about how most wine-drinkers walk swiftly past those gorgeous Rieslings which the wine trade love to love.

The situation is very much reversed when it comes to Pinotage. Consumers have no hang-ups whatever about buying wines from this grape variety whereas the trade on the other hand gets a little sniffy about it and has struggled to develop an adoring bond with it. Guilty as charged. Until now. I had my epiphany moment recently at a wine matching dinner where I had paired Cloof Pinotage, from Churchill Vintners, with Sizzling Beef Cantonese style and what a match it was.

Pinotage was developed in South Africa in 1927 by Professor Perold who crossed Pinot Noir with Cinsault (called Hermitage in South Africa at the time which makes sense of the name of the new grape), planted 4 seeds and then promptly forgot about them. They were rescued by a colleague and together he and Perold propagated the seedlings so that by 1943 there were wines made from this hybrid grape. Interestingly though, the first mention of Pinotage on a label was only in 1961 with Lanzerac’s 1959 vintage. It is now rightly regarded as South Africa’s very own; sometimes even its signature grape.

So what has changed my opinion of this grape so often criticised by my colleagues. Oh, alright also occasionally by me. Tasting and drinking them, it’s as simple as that! I’ve stopped being surprised at how pleasantly surprised I am when enjoying a Pinotage. I may be late to the party but I realise now they are mostly delicious. Far less frequently will you find that rubbery aroma that so turned-off the ‘experts’ (but actually didn’t bother you, the consumer); way more often you’ll discover black cherry, bramble, clove and possibly the more unusual (for wine, at least) aromas of banana. Unusual though, doesn’t make it wrong, just different. The wines can be relatively light, juicy and for drinking young or they can be dark and intense with the potential to age.

58

www.edgemagazine.org

With it still being very new in winemaking history, a mere 55 years old in commercial wine, growers and wine-makers are still learning and experimenting with Pinotage but recently there seems to have been a corner turned. There is an understanding by the producers as to what causes the wine to give the unpleasant aromas or bitter taste –problems such as lack of water or too much heat - and there is on-going research at the University of Stellenbosch into diseases which affect the variety and why.

Much of this progressive work has been led by the Pinotage Association which has a useful website where you can learn who is winning the top awards for their wines. www.pinotage.co.za. Reliably safe names though are Beyerskloof (Beyers Truter is regarded as the daddy of Pinotage wine-making and founded the association), Kanonkop, Simonsig or Rijk’s among others.

You won’t only find Pinotage as a single variety on a wine label or just from South Africa: it is also always present in wine labelled a Cape Blend, making up anywhere between 30% and 70% of the varieties used. And it is now also planted in California, New Zealand and Brazil; even too in Canada and Zimbabwe.

I no longer wander quickly past these palatable Pinotages; you were right all along, it definitely is a wine to pop in my trolley.

To win yourself a couple of bottles of Cloof Pinotage please answer the following question: Pinotage is a cross of Cinsault with which other grape variety: A) Cabernet Sauvignon B) Pinot Noir c) Grenache Send your answer to wine@edgemagazine.org by the 30th April 2015.

You must be over 18 to enter. Terms and conditions apply

For wine advice, tastings and courses email laura@bywine.co.uk or visit the website www.bywine. to.uk See Laura present in the Wine Theatre at the Foodies Show in Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham 15th-17th May.

Good Cheer

The pub, restaurant and café specialists

G

ood Cheer is a consultancy company based in Warwickshire, specialising in helping businesses within the hospitality industry thrive. From pubs to restaurants and even cafe’s, they are dedicated to helping these types of businesses make more money, even when the business is already successful.

The secret to their success is simple, by breaking the business down into its constituent parts and working with the owners to improve all aspects, the business as a whole becomes more manageable and profitable.

They offer a whole array of services ranging from: ● Margins and financial controls ● Costing of menus

At Good Cheer they know that it is important for you to be able to work within a budget and control your costs. We’ve all seen those fancy consultant websites that go on and on about how fabulous they are but give no indication of how much they might cost. So here’s some refreshing clarity...

They charge £199 for an initial visit to a business that is up and running, for this they complete a Good Cheer Audit and provide you with a written report of their findings. You may decide that’s enough for you and you are happy to implement any changes they suggest yourself. Alternatively you might want their help with some specific areas. At this point they would discuss your requirements and draw up a quote. Good Cheer are especially proud about always being clear and upfront when it comes to costs, so there won’t ever be any surprises.

● Image

Good Cheer predominantly work within Warwickshire, West Midlands and Oxfordshire, but if you are based a bit further afield feel free to contact them to discuss your needs.

● Social media, internet presence and promotion

For More information please call Matthew Welsh on

● Standard of food and service

● Mystery diner ● Overall offer

077925 93313 or by email at matthew.welsh@good-cheer.co.uk www.good-cheer.co.uk

At Good Cheer we offer our expertise and experience within the hospitality industry to help you improve your restaurant, pub or cafe, whether you are starting up or an existing business.

We believe that by asking you the right questions you'll be able to tell us what you want to achieve. We do this by completing a Good Cheer Audit.

We will then put together a plan of action/report of our findings. Whether you just want the ideas, or help to implement the plan, that's your call.

To arrange an initial meeting or just have a quick chat, contact me on: Phone: 077925 93313 or E-mail: matthew.welsh@good-cheer.co.uk www.good-cheer.co.uk

April 2015

59

LEMON WATER And its amazing health benefits

L

Mel Taffs

emon is inexpensive, easily available and the most widely used citrus fruit. Its flavour and refreshing smell make it a popular fruit for drinks. It is used in lemonade, soft drinks, cocktails and tea. In India, it is used as a medicine for many health problems. It can be used with other beneficial ingredients like honey and salt to enhance its benefits.

Nutritional properties

Lemons are low in calories, low in cholesterol and saturated fat.

It has lots of vitamin C which is an amazing antioxidant and also contains vitamin A, vitamin B6 and vitamin B1. Minerals present in lemons include copper, calcium and potassium. Copper possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Calcium is good for bones and teeth while potassium helps maintain pH and water balance.

Digestion

Proper digestion plays an important role in overall health. Warm lemon water is a quick, simple and effective home remedy to help treat indigestion issues, bloating, belching, heartburn and can help with constipation. Start your day on an empty stomach for best results.

Immune system

Our immune system protects our body by combating illness. If it's weak we can catch more infections, so by having warm lemon water with its potent anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties we can ward of viruses as the lemon eliminates toxins from the body.

Oral health

A cup of lemon water in the morning is good for oral health.

Its anti-bacterial property is good for mouth bacteria which is responsible for causing bad breath. It soothes toothaches and oral diseases like gingivitis. It also helps with teeth whitening as lemon is a natural bleaching agent.

Colds and flu

This is an old home remedy for treating colds and flu. Two teaspoons of honey and lemon juice in a cup of hot water will ease the discomfort of your cold symptoms. Both honey and lemon have anti-bacterial properties which fight the bacteria.

Lemon has lots of vitamin C which boosts immunity and honey soothes the throat. The combination of the two treats nasal congestion by eliminating unwanted mucus.

Weight loss

By having lemon, one teaspoon of honey and hot water first thing in the morning will increase your metabolism rate which burns calories fast. Stimulated metabolism uses fat as an energy source causing you to lose weight. Pectin fibre in lemons reduces hunger cravings making you feel full. A great drink to aid in weight loss.

60

www.edgemagazine.org

Detoxifier

The master cleanse diet is a popular weight loss program that involves both lemon juice and salt water. The name itself suggests that having lemon water with salt helps cleanse your system by removing those unwanted toxins accumulated in your body. The results of course are weight loss, glowing skin and better digestion.

Mineral absorption

Our bodies need minerals for overall health and it cannot produce these on their own. Proper absorption of minerals is vital for maintaining a normal pH balance and healthy nervous system.

Also the formation of bones and teeth and metabolic stimulation. Lemon water with a pinch of salt daily will keep up your mineral intake.

Skin

Lemon water is also great for your skin and hair due to the amount of vitamin C present that eliminates free radicals, which are responsible for causing wrinkles and ageing. Vitamin C also heals damaged tissues, lightens dark spots and prevents acne.

Natural diuretic

Lemon water is a natural diuretic and can help prevent urinary tract infections. Being a natural diuretic it increases urination and eliminates bacteria which cause the infection. It is also effective in the treatment of kidney stones as it contains citric acid which does not allow kidney stone formation by breaking it down.

Heart health

Our heart is a vital organ so its health and care is extremely important. Potassium present in it controls high blood pressure whilst vitamin C lowers cholesterol and prevents blood clotting within vessels. Lemon has an antioxidant property which eliminates harmful toxins and keeps blood purified.

Good mood

The vitamin C in lemons is a natural stress reducer so is good in reducing depression and anxiety. Start your day with lemon and hot water to brighten up your day.

Want to lose weight and keep it off for good? Change bad eating habits for life?

Call Absolutely Flab U Less on 07792421080.

Email melanietaffs7@gmail.com

April 2015

61

New from Green People Body washes and lotions

Step into spring with a selection of uplifting and invigorating new limited edition bodycare products from Green People packed full of natural goodness to cleanse, soothe and hydrate the skin. Choose from two new limited edition scents – Red Mandarin & Ho Wood or Lemongrass & Ginger for a new bath time experience.

NEW Lemongrass & Ginger Body Wash - £7.50 for 100ml Invigorating body wash enriched with essential oils from Lemongrass & Ginger Soothing Marshmallow cleanses and softens your skin Lemongrass helps to naturally improve muscle tone Ginger stimulates circulation and improves skin elasticity Rich in moisturising Aloe Vera to nourish even the most sensitive skin

NEW Red Mandarin & Ho Wood Body Wash - £7.50 for 100ml Soothing body wash enriched with essential oils from Red Mandarin & Ho Wood Natural Yucca intensely moisturises skin Red Mandarin increases circulation to cleanse your body of toxins

NEW Lemongrass & Ginger Body Lotion £12.95 for 150ml Limited edition body lotion enriched with essential oils from Lemongrass & Ginger An organic, stimulating lotion for soft, supple hands and body Lemongrass helps to naturally improve muscle tone Ginger stimulates circulation and improves skin firmness Shea Butter and Perilla Seed oil seal in moisture

NEW Red Mandarin & Ho Wood Body Lotion £12.95 for 150ml Limited edition body lotion enriched with essential oils from Red Mandarin & Ho Wood An organic, nutritive lotion for soft, supple hands and body Red Mandarin increases circulation to cleanse your body of toxins

Ho Wood powerfully stimulates cell regeneration for radiant skin

Ho Wood powerfully stimulates cell regeneration for radiant, youthful skin

Nourishing Aloe Vera soothes and calms even the most sensitive skin

Rich in Omega -3&6 essential fatty acids

Green People products are available from all good health stores and selected Waitrose and John Lewis For stockist details please call 01403 740 350 or visit www.greenpeople.co.uk 62

www.edgemagazine.org

JILL WHEELOCK-LINES A

F A M I L Y

R U N

B U S I N E S S

E S T .

1 9 8 5 .

$ ) 7 ( 5 $ / / 3 ( $ 5 / 6 $ 5 ( $ * , 5 / 6 % ( 6 7 )5,(1'

U N I Q U E F O R

W W W. J I L L W H E E L O C K - L I N E S . C O . U K

Y O U R

01905 613799

|

C O L L E C T I O N S S P E C I A L

S O M E O N E

8 F R I A R S T R E E T, W O R C E S T E R

Boutique style clothing, handbags, jewellery and homeware Kopella Boutique is a party plan style business run by agents, the idea being bring a boutique to you on girls night in/ladies events, etc.

There is no one else that offers this, we have quick stock turnaround, we don't often repeat products so it ensures our clients always get experience boutique style.

You can buy direct from or our showroom at Burcot Open Monday to Friday 10-4 and by appt only on Saturday.

UNIT 6 THE OLD FORGE, BURCOT B60 1BH kopella@outlook.com

Kopella

Spring has finally sprung Emma Jenkins

F

or me an indicator of when spring is close, is once all the Fashion Weeks are over. I really enjoy pouring over the streetstyle shots and take outfit inspiration from them, and there were some great styles this season! Colour is making a breakthrough, pattern is back and of course denim was everywhere!

Also, (finally), it feels like we are turning a corner with the weather. The nights are lighter and (at the time of going to press!) the weather seems brighter and warmer.

I'm so over wearing my jumpers and jeans, coats and gloves and I'm starting to plan my spring wardrobe. I'm enjoying purchasing a few lighter fabric pieces and introducing a pop of colour.

Chloe leather python cross body bag £365.00 House of Fraser

I'm always envious of those who have the boldness to throw on an outfit full of colour and print. My style is never full on colour but an subtle introduction of it into my wardrobe, combined with my basic pieces There are some great pairings around and I must admit I do love the stripe trend, especially different kinds of stripes worn together. There are some great sets available of matching tops and highwaisted trousers (always flattering) or skirts and boxed tops.

We covered off denim last month, with a few light neutrals thrown in, but there are some great colour and print trends featured on the high street worth considering. Its always refreshing to see that accessories, makeup and even nail colours are also featuring a fresh, spring time palette.

Electric blue clutch bag £19.99 Zara

Classic Winchester lady £129.00 Daniel Wellington

White lined wide leg trousers £30.00 Next

Monochrome textured skirt £28.00 Next

Wide printed trousers £29.99 Zara

With that in mind, I wanted to give a round up of items that have caught my eye and been added to my 'lust list' for spring.

Happy shopping and enjoy adding a pop of colour to your wardrobe.

For more style inspiration, follow me on; Pintrest: Emma Jenkins Instagram: itsabeautifullifeuk Blog: www.itsabeautifullife.co.uk

64

www.edgemagazine.org

Vibrant shoes £50.00 Office

Maia Shoes £89.00 Dune

Red striped top £28.00 Next

Block colour knit top £55.00 COS

Pixie duster £69.00 Monsoon

The Body Shop Green

Stretchy rib top £59.00 COS

Printed top £49.00 Printed trousers £79.00 Pied a Terre

Oh Petal

Just Peachy

Sleeveless jacket £29.99 New Look

Gorgeus Gray

A Grape Affair

£5.00 The Body Shop April 2015

65

THE HATTERY Original Handmade Hats & Fascinators.

Bespoke & Ready to wear for all Occasions

For Your chance to win some VIP Tickets to the Foodies Festival at Birmingham’s Cannon Hill Park on 15th, 16th and 17th May this year.

Simply email your details to Foodiescomp@edgemagazine.org and see if you win!!!

These include entry to the festival, a welcome glass of bubbly, use of the exclusive VIP area with private bar and refreshments, food and drink masterclasses, showguides and goody bags to take home.

Find us every Friday @ The Jinney Ring Craft Centre, Hanbury, Nr Bromsgrove B60 4BU email: thehattery.info@gmail.com Tel: 07974 969 467

Afternoon Tea...

Sheer delight for those who wish to indulge, relax and unwind.

The West 12 Bar and Grill is the perfect place to enjoy our delicious Afternoon Tea. The West 12 Afternoon Tea £17.00 The West 12 Cream Tea £9.50 Add bubbles to your Afternoon Tea for £6.00 to include glass of house sparkling wine.

To book your Afternoon Tea please contact our team on: 0121 452 1144.

Afternoon Tea Served between 12.00pm and 6.00pm.

Birmingham Marriott Hotel, 12 Hagley Road, Five Ways, Birmingham

BIRMINGHAM MARRIOTT HOTEL Birmingham,

Subject to availabiilty. Offer valid on 13th and 14th February 2015 only. Pre payment required at time of booking for diners only

66

www.edgemagazine.org

Get ready for summer Linda Rose Lingerie

W

ith a three second glance the Linda Rose team will know your bra size and within thirty seconds youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be wearing a perfectly fitted bra â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and for many women, this will be for the first time.

The success and reputation of Linda Rose Lingerie has been built through their expert bra-fitting service as well as their quality stock of lingerie and swimwear. Linda and her team, Julia and Helen are passionate about good fitting lingerie and offer a caring friendly service.

The boutique also stocks swimwear all year around and Linda says, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;People go on holiday all year round and so we stock a great collection throughout the year. We stock ranges from many brands and offer different styles, shapes and colours, creating a collection for every body shape. On the beach or around the pool is a time when we wear the least in public so making sure you look and feel good is our goal. A quality swimwear piece will fit well, flatter and be long-lasting. We firmly believe in having swimwear fitted just as you would your lingerie.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;

/LQGD 5RVH /,1*(5,(

*HW WKH SHUIHFW ÂżW DW /LQGD 5RVH /LQJHULH )HHO FRPIRUWDEOH IHPLQLQH DQG FRQÂżGHQW DIWHU D FRQVXOWDWLRQ DW WKH /LQGD 5RVH %RXWLTXH

Call in at Linda Rose Lingerie to see the fabulous range of lingerie and swimwear. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always highly recommended to have an expert fitting to see what perfectly fitted lingerie and swimwear can do for you.

2 Market Place Town Centre Alcester B49 5AP 01789 400152

0DUNHW 3ODFH $OFHVWHU % $(

April 2015

67

Image: ‘Collison Happy Days’ Charlie (6 yrs), Nige (44yrs), Tracey (46yrs) and Henry (10yrs) Nov 2014.

O

The Blue Sky Ball

n Saturday 25th April 2015, in aid of Cancer Research UK, St Richard’s Hospice and Hugo’s Everyday Living and Play Fund (H.E.L.P), Tracey Collison is organizing ‘The Blue Sky Ball’ at The Guild Hall Worcester.

In honor of Tracey’s husband, Nige, who sadly passed away, just over a year ago, from Esophageal Cancer at the age of 45, The Blue Sky Ball will bring people together to raise as much money as possible for the above, chosen charities.

A much loved Dad to Henry (11) and Charlie (7), this event will be in celebration of Nige’s life for his family, friends and colleagues to support causes that were dear to his heart. Nige was diagnosed on September 27th 2013 and passed away on January 2nd 2014, two days after his 45th birthday. Oesophageal Cancer, a very silent cancer, like all cancers is brutal and Nige had no symptoms at all to indicate what was happening to his body. Without St Richard’s Hospice’s wonderful care and 68 www.edgemagazine.org

support, Nige would never have made it out of hospital.

In 2012, Nige completed the Worcester Marathon, to raise both awareness and funds for Hugo’s Everyday Living and Play Fund (H.E.L.P). Hugo is 6 years’ old: a funny and intelligent little boy.

He suffers from Hypomyelination and skeletal dysplasia. Hypomyelination affects a specific part of the brain (the myelin sheath) leading to problems with movement, speech, vision, hearing, mental and physical development.

H.E.L.P supports Hugo by raising funds for essential items to make his life more comfortable.

Hugo’s family is currently raising finds to purchase a specialised wheelchair, which will cost in excess of £10,000.

Profits from the Blue Sky Ball will be divided equally between Cancer Research UK, St Richard’s Hospice and H.E.L.P.

Are you a business/ company? We need your help, please! Organisers are in need of prizes for the auction and the raffle.

Perhaps you have something you would be willing to donate to support these wonderful causes…

Please email Tracey, blueskyball2015@ gmail.com or call 07815 904565.

Alternatively, by post: Blue Sky Ball, c/o Child Care Bureau, First Floor, Units 11-13, Elgar Business Centre, Moseley Road, Hallow, Worcestershire WR2 6NJ.

Escape Arts

A local charity supported by the Courtyard Gallery Lucinda Bunn Escape Arts believes in the value of inclusive arts that celebrate the community and support the people within it.

First established in 1997 and becoming a charity in 2003, Escape Arts offers regular workshops and activities for adults and young people interested in creative pursuits from their studio in Nuneaton.

The aim is to use art to give new meaning to lives, give opportunities for individual achievement and create a shared experience and local heritage. The programmes available at Escape Arts are designed to address community, social care and education needs.

Escape works with a team of wonderful artists who provide an innovative and varied programme of hands on activities designed to be accessible to everyone. These allow individuals to explore their own creative journey as well as getting involved in exciting collaborative activities which contribute to local festivals and community events. You will see Escape represented at all local festivals so look out for the kingfisher and come and get involved.

In April, Escape Arts opens its new home with the launch of The New Slaughterhouse Arts and Heritage Studio in the heart of Stratford-uponAvon. The new building will be a permanent hub for Escape Arts and for local people to get creative. The New Slaughterhouse also has an exhibition space where the Escape Arts team will archive local stories and host creative activities.

Some of the Escape artists also support the charity through The Courtyard Gallery at Stratford Garden Centre.

This is a unique outlet for an extensive range of artist made work. It is run by the local artist group, selling their work; a percentage of which goes to raise funds for Escapeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work in the community.

Escape Arts aims to grow and diversify its impact on the county of Warwickshire each year. With a base in Nuneaton and a new base in Stratford-upon-Avon, the team are expanding their reach.

Later this year, Escape will launch its new Mobile Arts Bus which will take activities on the road to more dispersed communities in the county.

Escape supports sustainability, working with local talent and using recycled materials throughout our activities. We are grateful for contributions of recycled materials & unwanted or surplus tools.

Escape also offer tailor made activities for Health Organisations, Schools and Community Groups.

For more information, contact Robin Wade: robinwade@ escapecommunityarts.co.uk Escape Workshop No.1 Garden Cottage Shakespeare Street Stratford on Avon Warwickshire CV37 6RN 01789269026 www.escapecommunityarts.co.uk

April 2015

69

Pop of Culture Lucinda Bunn

Craft season launches with new commissioned artwork

YUNDI PLAYS CHOPIN 7.30pm Wednesday 15 April 2015 Symphony Hall Birmingham The young pianist enjoys the fanbase of a rock star at home in his native China.

Around the world, he’s quickly building a reputation as one of his generation’s most poetic and assured interpreters of Chopin, having become the youngest pianist to win the International Frédéric Chopin Piano Competition in 2000, at the age of 18.

Yundi makes his Birmingham debut in the majestic surroundings of Symphony Hall with a programme of Chopin, including the composer’s complete cycle of Twentyfour Preludes.

Together with MAC Birmingham, Craftspace has launched a season of events and exhbitions called Craftspace Curates. The season explores the theme of craft in an expanded field and launches with ‘The Closet Craftsman’, an exhibition of work by Will Shannon, who combines the role of designer, maker, manufacturer and architect.

The exhibition runs until 19th April 2015, and includes ‘Market Factory’, a newly commissioned work for Birmingham. Shannon subverts the idea of a traditional market stall. Usually cheap to rent for selling wares directly to the public, he reimagines it as a space in which to fuse making and selling. Using only simple hand tools Shannon goes back to basics using traditional joinery techniques and hand skill to craft beautiful limited edition chairs for sale.

This free exhibition runs until 19 April 2015, First Floor Gallery at mac birmingham, 11am – 6pm Tuesday to Sunday, free admission.

More details at craftspace.co.uk or follow @tweetcraftspace www.craftspace.co.uk

www.thsh.co.uk/event/yundi-plays-chopin

Broadcaster, writer & journalist Jonathan Dimbleby will be in Evesham on 23rd April - talking about his new book ‘Destiny in the Desert’.

Jonathan Dimbleby’s taut account of North African fighting in the Second World War, culminating in the second battle of El Alamein, is a scintillating piece of writing, charting the nailbiting months that led to the victory at El Alamein in November 1942. He has fresh things to say about a campaign so much fought over among revisionist historians, who sum up the Second World War as “Russia defeated Germany, the United States defeated Japan, and Britain defeated... Italy”.

Britain’s war in North Africa began well against the Italian army in Libya, but came close to defeat - and the loss of Egypt & the vital Suez Canal - after the intervention of German General Rommel’s Afrika Korps. Prime Minister Winston Churchill sacked two luckless British commanders before the tide was finally turned by Montgomery at El Alamein. Churchill got the victory he called “the end of the beginning” - but was it really that simple? Was Churchill justified in replacing his generals? How did “Monty” succeed where they had failed?

After his talk, Jonathan will answer audience questions and sign copies of ‘Destiny in the Desert’.

Tickets for Jonathan Dimbleby - Destiny in the Desert are available now from Evesham Almonry, Abbey Road WR11 4BG 01386-446944 and from www.EveshamArtsCentre.co.uk price £14 (£12 concessions).

70

www.edgemagazine.org

Daisychain Benevolent Fund

Top Worcestershire law firm digs deep in aid of local charity

T

he Harrison Clark Rickerbys Property team swapped suits for sarees on Friday 20th March 2015 when it hosted a Bollywood evening in aid of Daisychain Benevolent Fund at Pasha Restaurant in St Johns Worcester.

A fantastic colourful event which was a sell-out and saw some traditional dances performed during the evening with guests encouraged to participate. Guests also had the opportunity to have henna designs painted on them in keeping with the celebration traditions as well as manicures and hand massages.

Prizes were awarded for the best dressed male and female and also the best dancer.

Many local firms generously donated prizes to support the event, including a meal for four at Edward’s restaurant, a night’s stay at Malvern Spa Hotel and a free activity at Top Barn.

Dina Parmar associate solicitor in the Harrison Clark Property team said: “I am delighted to announce that we raised a massive £687.10 for Daisychain Benevolent Fund on the night, it was a worthwhile cause and I know the donation will aid in helping the charity. I am really pleased with the turn out and the atmosphere on the night was wonderful. It was particularly enjoyable to see the guests get into the spirit of things.”

April 2015

71

No Name Lane: A review A novel by Howard Linskey Mike Stafford

I

f you’ve read Howard Linskey’s excellent David Blake trilogy - and if you love Brit grit, you either have already or will do - then ‘No Name Lane,’ is a change of pace from one of the North East’s most endearing crime writers.

Set in the small former mining village of Great Middleton in the early nineties, ‘No Name Lane’ is the tale of two intertwining investigations. One sees a child killer known as the Reaper pursued by police, while the other sees the unearthing of a sixty year old corpse prompt exiled journalist Tom Carney to unearth some of his hometown’s darkest secrets. Across the two cases, Linskey examines the often murky relationship between press and police, and looks back at what mining village life was like in the early to mid twentieth century.

A novel spanning nearly five hundred pages arguably needs a substantial cast of characters, and Linskey obliges. There are working class brawlers, embarrassed and isolated teenagers, amoral newspaper editors both local and national, elderly ladies with something to hide, and of course, cops and hacks.

Of the cops, Ian Bradshaw is the man we’re asked to pin our hopes on.

Currently in therapy following a tragedy involving his former partner, Bradshaw’s career is circling the drain at the start of the book, and he is given short shrift by a force that still looks fairly unreconstructed, filled as it is with lazy, belligerent DCs and self-serving brass.

Of the journalists, we have Tom Carney and Helen Norton.

Carney is a local lad who made it to Fleet Street but now finds himself cast out and licking his wounds back home, while Norton is his replacement on the local rag, scratching out a name for herself using the uninspiring subject matter Great Middleton has to offer. Each of

72

www.edgemagazine.org

the main characters has something to say about the world; Bradshaw reminds us that even two decades ago, policing wasn’t as modern as we might remember; Carney, through woes with his bosses, reminds us of the amorality of the tabloids - and the phenomenal sway they once held over public opinion; Norton reminds us more subtly about the perils of writing local news in a town where, generally, there is none.

The great strength of ‘No Name Lane’ though simply has to be its grasp of time and place. Spanning the late thirties to the early nineties, Linskey gives us an utterly convincing account of the claustrophobia and insularity in an old mining village, and the stifling, enforced moral codes that went with it. In the thirties in Great Middleton, straying from a strictly defined code of conduct could see you ruined on a level hard for us to comprehend today. Fast forward to the nineties, and the small town insularity still exists. Everyone still knows each other’s intimate business, and a wily journalist can take advantage if he or she has the stomach for it.

Historically aware but with a pace that rattles gamely along throughout, ‘No Name Lane’ is another strong effort from an author carving out a name for himself in the front rank of British crime writers. www.nudge-book.com/blog/contributor/ mike-stafford

Peter Berry: Image as Process Recent paintings and drawings

10th April – 6th June 2015

P

eter Berry is an exhibiting fine artist who works in a range of media and materials including painting, sculpture, drawing and print.

His work which has always been a kind of research process, an exploration or investigation, remains concerned with testing the boundaries of convention and tradition within any particular discipline.

“As a long term enthusiast of Eastern philosophies and teacher of yoga”, he says, “I constantly return to a position which could be described as ‘minimalist’.” The constant search for ‘essence’ and its reductionist nature has lead in the past few years to a number of minimalist sculptures and paintings like ‘Yellow and White Squares’, reconstructed and exhibited at the Ikon Gallery, Birmingham 2004 and his solo exhibition ‘Painted Constructions and Constructed Paintings’ at the Modern British Artists Gallery, London 2007.

Later work continued with the use of minimalist structures and with the notion of ‘materiality’. This incorporated manufacturing processes together with an interest in recycled industrial materials

seen in his solo shows ‘Idea as Object’ at LCBDepot, Leicester in 2009 and the Atkins Gallery, Hinckley in 2010.

The recent series of ‘Black Paintings’, exhibited at the New Walk Museum and Art Gallery, Leicester ‘Open 25’, and the series of ‘Colours of Faro’, shown at the LCBDepot, Leicester in 2014/15, have demonstrated a revival of interest in the New York School of painters and the associated philosophy.

Peter Berry was trained as a sculptor at Cheltenham College of Art and the Slade School of Fine Art where he was the prize winner for Drawing and Sculpture. After an extended period of lecturing in Art & Design at colleges and universities, followed by a decade long period of studying, practising and teaching yoga, Peter continues to develop his studio practice full time at his studio in Hinckley, Leicestershire.

This interest continues and can be seen in his latest paintings shown at Harborne Art Gallery where the concerns have shifted, from the conceptual and cerebral, to a much more personal, expressive and immediate use of gestures and intuition. In this studio-based work, the process now frequently evokes re-collected responses to nature and to particular times and places. In these pieces, structure and gesture are frequently explored, with the introduction of vibrant colours opposed to pieces in shades of grey, in the production of images, which are intended to be read by the viewer as ‘correspondences of feeling’.

In reflecting on his current work, Peter says: “The travels and experiences over the past years since retiring from teaching have, I feel, both prepared the ground for a stronger studio practice and added to the development and informed the overall aesthetic concerns which were established in the earlier work.”

Harborne Art Gallery at Frametec 8 Greenfield Road Harborne Birmingham B17 OEE 0121 428 1038 www.frametec.co.uk April 2015

73

More good news on ISAs

How will the changes affect you?

Tom Ware

I

sas are becoming an increasing potent weapon in an investor’s armoury. Over the past five years, the government has significantly increased the amount that can be saved into an ISA, which now stands at £15,000.

It has also broadened the scope of allowable investments, incorporating retail bonds, peer to peer lending and Aim shares.

The Autumn statement saw Isas become even more attractive.

Partners can now inherit a deceased spouse’s ISA pot. The Treasury said in its statement: “150,000 married ISA savers pass away each year, and their ISA tax advantages die with them, even if they were saving as a couple. Autumn Statement announces that from 3 December 2014, if an ISA saver in a marriage or civil partnership dies, their spouse or civil partner will inherit their Isa tax advantages.

“From 6 April 2015, surviving spouses will be able to invest as much into their own ISA as their spouse used to have, on top of their usual allowance, and so will be better able to secure their financial future and enjoy the tax advantages they previously 17853 BIRMINGHAM AUDI Q3 ADVERT 126 x 180mm.qxp_Layout 1 shared.”

Previously, ISAs lost all their tax benefits on death of the holder and became part of the estate for inheritance tax purposes.

From the 3 December last year, the surviving spouse will be given an additional ISA allowance, equal to the amount the deceased spouse had in their ISA, which can be used from 6 April 2015. The key point is that the spouse can continue to receive the same tax-free income stream. With Isas increasingly used alongside pensions to supplement retirement income, this is a valuable change.

The way the new benefit is structured is complicated: technically, the ISA wrapper and its tax benefits still disappear on death and the investments still become part of the estate for inheritance tax purposes. As a result, if the ISA is transferred to anyone but the spouse, it will still be subject to tax. It is only because there is no inheritance tax payable between husband and wife that the transfer escapes under the new rules.

The ISA limit will also increase to £15,240 from 6 April 2015.

From here, the ISA allowance will rise in line with inflation.

The new rules increase the utility of ISA wrappers as a wealth management andPage financial planning tool.

17/03/2015 16:19 1

Big changes to our smallest SUV. With the addition of design features like the 3D grille, chrome-plated tailpipe and optional LED headlights, the new Audi Q3 is now even more eye-catching. Inside, Audi drive select and front Sports seats with electric lumbar support mean that it’s not only beautiful to look at, it’s also comfortable to drive.

To experience the new Audi Q3 for yourself, speak to a member of our team.

Listers.co.uk/Audi Official fuel consumption figures for the Q3 range in mpg (V 100km) from: Urban 33.6 (8.4) - 53.3 (5.3), Extra Urban 44.8 (6.3)- 68.9 (4.1). Combined 40.4 (7.0|)- 61.4 (4.6).

CO2 emissions: 119 - 161g/km. Standard EU Test figures for comparable purposes and may not relfect real driving results.

74

www.edgemagazine.org

Although the government estimates that 150,000 people will benefit from the change, the amount of the benefit will depend on how much is held in the ISA, how much income it generates and the tax rate of the surviving spouse. Accountants PricewaterhouseCoopers put together the following table, using a 2% income from investments to calculate the annual benefit of inheriting the ISA tax breaks to the surviving spouse:

ISA pot at death

Annual income at 2%

Annual saving for surviving spouse (20% tax rate)

Annual saving for surviving spouse (40% tax rate)

£5,000

£100

£20

£40

£10,000

£200

£40

£80

£20,000

£400

£80

£160

£50,000

£1,000

£200

£400

Pensioner Bonds The Autumn statement also saw announcement of details on the ‘pensioner bonds’. These have been designed as an alternative to a savings account for the over-65s. They have higher rates of interest than conventional savings accounts and were launched through National Savings & Investments.

The pensioner bonds came to market in mid-January and proved hugely popular. Around £1bn of bonds was sold out in two days, crashing the NS&I website in the process. The bonds came to market with interest rates of 2.8% for one year and 4% for three years. Around £10bn of the bonds will be made available. Pensioners will be allowed to save a maximum of £10,000 in each version of the bond, a total of £20,000.

Although the interest rates look attractive compared to other savings accounts, there are some disadvantages. The money is tied up for one or three years, which means that they are not useful for ‘rainy day’ cash that might be needed in an emergency. Equally, interest on the bonds is taxable at an individual’s personal tax rate and it is not possible to register to receive interest gross, as is normally possible with saving accounts. Non-taxpayers or those who have had too much tax deducted will have to reclaim it via a self-assessment tax return, which can be an administrative chore for those who don’t normally need to submit a return.

Tom Ware

Churchill Investments PLC Registered in England No. 3125227 Registered Office: 9 Woodborough Road, Winscombe.

BS25 1AB 01934 844444 info@churchillinvestment.co.uk www.churchillinvestment.co.uk IMPORTANT NOTICE The descriptions of products and services in this newsletter are not recommendations, which we will only make to individuals based on their personal circumstances and needs. Investment plans and funds may involve risks to both capital and income. Past performance is not a guide to the future and the value of investment can fall as well as rise. You might not get back the full amount invested particularly if an encashment is made in the early years. The descriptions of tax rules are based on Churchill Investments’ understanding of law and HMR&C practice. Tax rules are subject to change. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Churchill Investments plc is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

April 2015

75

Style meets Substance SEAT Leon X-Perience Lucie Abu-Zalaf

S

EAT’s first foray into the estate market came in 2013 when they launched the Leon ST. People questioned why the Spanish firm, who were best known for performance hatchbacks, would want to add such a car into their repertoire. Their answer was that they wanted to entice ‘youthful families’ into its cars and from the sales figures, they’ve fitted into the market nicely.

So, onto the Leon X-Perience. Quirky grammar aside, what you are looking at here is a 4-wheel drive, beefed up version of the ST. SEAT have added extra robust cladding onto the bumpers, wheel arches and side sills, jacked up the ride by 28mm and added aluminium scuff plates to the front and rear; all

76

www.edgemagazine.org

making the X-Perience look rather more rugged than the slightly more refined look of the ST. The latest Haldex 4-wheel drive system is standard on all models and cleverly drives the front wheels in standard conditions, but diverts up to 50% of the power to the rear axle when necessary.

I must admit, when I was first presented with the X-Perience and got inside, I was a little overwhelmed. The sheer space in the car has to be commented on and the panoramic sunroof on the model I tested just seemed to make the car feel huge! I drove the range topping SE Technology model, with a 6-speed DSG twin clutch automatic transmission. This meant that as well as having 182bhp to play with, it also came with all of the driver gadgets and gizmos that you can imagine. Apart

from being spacious, the interior is well designed. It’s simple, uncluttered and very easy to get comfortable in. The X-Perience is trimmed with unique orange detailing, which is actually very subtle and is a nice little difference from the standard ST. The touch screen display, which controls everything from the radio, to sat nav to driver information is well positioned in the centre at the top of the dashboard and is very simple and straight forward to use, even when on the move. The Bluetooth connection is easy to set up on the multimedia system and music streaming as well as telephone calls works well, I was also impressed with the speaker quality. Not something that I was expecting a huge amount from, given the family nature of the car but I was very pleasantly surprised.

Despite being used to driving a larger 4x4, I felt slightly nervous at first when pulling off in the X-Perience. I think this has to be put down to how big the car felt inside rather than its actual size. As soon as I was off, that feeling subsided and I was left to debate the benefits the space would allow. The Leon X-Perience again uses VW’s MQB platform, alongside the similar Skoda Octavia, trusted VW Golf and even the sleek Audi TT, so it’s no wonder that the package feels slightly familiar. The 182bhp generated from the 2.0l diesel engine is punchy enough to make the car feel almost sporty and I was never left struggling at a junction or roundabout, even with the extra 120kgs that the X-Perience carries over the Leon ST. Economy is claimed to be 55.3 mpg, top speed is 137 mph and it’ll do 0-60 in 7.5 seconds, figures not to be sniffed at.

The benefits of the 4-wheel drive system mean that you can not only fit the world and his wife inside, it also has a decent towing capability and works better in the snow, ice, mud and gravel than its 2-wheel drive cousin.

All in all, if you are looking for a spacious, practical family car that isn’t going to leave you stuck at the bottom of a hill if the weather turns the Leon X-Perience is a fine car, especially when you consider that even the top model with all the bells and whistles comes in at under 30k.

Listers SEAT Solihull

Listers SEAT Worcester

Listers SEAT Coventry

Watery Lane Middleway

391 Ombersley Road

Brandon Road

Bordesley, Birmingham

Worcester

Binley, Coventry

West Midlands

Worcestershire

West Midlands

B9 4H

WR3 7DG

CV3 2AN

Phone:0121 766 2260

Phone:01905 794000

Phone:024 7645 6700

*%. %LUPLQJKDP 0DLOER[ LV QHZO\ UHIXUELVKHG T: 0121 633 8564

April 2015

77

Pick of the month

2

Classic British comedy Bouncers tours at The Old Rep

015 is set to be a landmark year for The Old Rep, as the theatre begins a new lease of life under Birmingham Ormiston Academy, following a tender process in 2014. The Old Rep’s 2015 programming reflects their new ethos: to be a theatre for young people, run by young people. From ballet, to live music, classic British theatre and stand-up comedy, The Old Rep has something to offer everyone.

Produced by the John Godber Company and Theatre Royal Wakefield, Bouncers will play at The Old Rep from 15th – 18th April. The cast features a frightening array of Northern acting talent. Adrian Hood (Brassed Off, The Syndicate) plays Judd, Frazer Hammill as Les, Robert Hudson (Red Riding, The Bill) as Lucky Eric and Theatre Royal Wakefield’s own pantomime dame Chris Hannon (Lunch Monkeys, Being Sold, Topsy & Tim) as Ralph.

Set in a nightclub in Pontefract, this award winning play tells the story of a night out on the town with the boys, the

78

www.edgemagazine.org

girls, the cheesy DJ, the late night kebab man and the taxi home, all under the watchful eyes of the Bouncers.

This British classic has been reworked for 2015, with a stripped down style of production. There is no set beyond large neon sign (bearing the name of the play) and four beer barrels used by the actors to convey various locations and props.

The four actors are on stage throughout this quick-fire, non-stop performance, which combines singing, dancing, mime and poetry.

“Not so much a play as a social phenomenon” The Guardian Bouncers is a contemporary classic, having been performed all over the world in many different languages. In 2012, it was introduced in a new app produced by the Victoria & Albert Museum entitled ‘Played in Britain: Modern Theatre in 100 Plays 1945 – 2010.

John Godber is a BAFTA award-winning playwright from Upton, West Yorkshire.

He is said to be the second most performed playwright in Britain (Alan Ayckbourn is the first). Bouncers was first performed on 15th August 1977 at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. On average, Bouncers is performed at least eight times a year by small to mid-scale repertory venues, and is toured at least twice a year by various companies.

The performances at The Old Rep also offer the chance to meet the Bouncers, as they will come out into the audience prior to each show for selfie opportunities. Get involved on Facebook and Twitter by searching The Old Rep and using the hashtag #theyonlycomeoutatnight and #bouncerstour15.

Tickets for Bouncers at The Old Rep are available at £15 per adult, with concessions at £13. Visit www. oldreptheatre.co.uk, or call the Box Office on 0121 359 9444.

April 2015

79

Your story book

O

Memories preserved in print

ur personal history and lineage is something that’s of interest to all of us. Some years ago, Tim Bolton realised that his daughters, who were born after the death of his father, would have no memory of him. They would not know the details of his life nor the characteristics and life experiences that made him who he was.

Tim decided to create a life story book, assembling family photographs, local histories and press cuttings as well as putting to paper anecdotes and memories of his father. With the help of a local printer and book binder, Tim was able to complete his custom made hard back book that he has continued to share with his daughters and other family members.

Tim is now offering others the same service with his business Your Story Book, where he will compile details of your family’s experiences, memories and traditions in a book for everyone to enjoy together.

The process begins with a discussion on what you want to create, followed by the gathering of photographs and documents as well as interviews with family members. Tim pieces together and organises everything he finds. It’s a collaborative effort so Tim can create your story book just as you want it before it’s sent away for printing and binding.

To find out more about this unique family experience, please see the Your Story Book website at: www.yourstorybook.co.uk 01905 640306 www.yourstorybook.co.uk

Bring your history back to life with ...

Your Story Book Capture and preserve cherished memories for future generations

Don’t let those precious memories fade away, preserve them for posterity in a bespoke hand bound book

For more information, please contact Tim Bolton at Your Story Book.

01905 640306

www.yourstorybook.co.uk 80

www.edgemagazine.org

What’s on this April Our picks of the month Megan Ace

5 SOLDIERS

by Rosie Kay Dance Company Thursday 23 to Saturday 25 April The HOUSE, Birmingham Repertory Theatre A moving, dramatic and unique work that looks at how the human body remains essential to war, even in the 21st century from Rosie Kay Dance Company. This striking performance will be unusually staged, with the audience seated on the stage in The HOUSE. Tickets: £20 (concessions available).

Box Office: 0121 236 4455 Online Booking: Birmingham-rep.co.uk

Jeeves and Wooster in Perfect Nonsense Monday 30th March – Saturday 4th April

Award winning comedy Jeeves and Wooster in Perfect Nonsense will be appearing at Malvern Theatres from Monday 30th March until Saturday 4th April. Robert Webb, best known as Jeremy in the Channel 4 sitcom Peep Show stars as the effervescent, aristocratic fool Bertie Wooster .

Winning Best New Comedy at the 2014 Olivier Awards, the charmingly incompetent Bertie Wooster and his unflappable valet Jeeves are brought to life in this highly acclaimed comedy based on and adapted from the established literary works of P.G. Wodehouse.

When a country house weekend takes a turn for the worse, Bertie Wooster is unwittingly called on to play matchmaker, but also to steal a silver cow creamer from Totleigh Towers. Naturally, the ever dependable Jeeves is there to prevent Bertie from making a fool of himself in front of a cast of Wodehouse’s finest characters. Enjoy an evening of raucous comedy in the company of Gussie Fink-Nottle, Madeline Basset, Sir Watkin Bassett, Dahlia Travers, Roderick Spode and Constable Oates!

Laugh out loud funny, Perfect Nonsense is the comedy of the year.

Rebecca

Monday 27 April – Saturday 2 May The HOUSE, Birmingham Repertory Theatre A spellbinding new production of Daphne du Maurier’s masterpiece,which conjures Cornish romance and theatrical magic, from one of the world’s most celebrated theatre companies, Kneehigh.

Tickets: £12 - £20 (concessions available).

Box Office: 0121 236 4455 Online Booking: Birmingham-rep.co.uk

April 2015

81

Raising the bar Specialist car dealership opts in to pioneering new sales graduate scheme

G

raypaul Birmingham, an Official Ferrari and Maserati dealer based in Solihull has recently welcomed their first sales graduate, as part of their buy-in to a pioneering new training scheme, offered by Sytner Motor Group.

The scheme comes part of a newly launched partnership between the National Dealer Academy and the Sytner Motor Group, aimed at developing new sales talent from the ground up. The programme, which is an industry first and accredited by the Institute of the Motor Industry, sets out to carefully and slowly develop sales trainees from ground level and to help bring not only brand loyalty to Ferrari and Maserati, but to retain and develop the best employees within Graypaul Birmingham and the Sytner Group.

The successful candidate was Andrew Constable of Selly Oak in Birmingham, who beat hundreds of applicants from all walks of life to win his place. Andrew will be learning sales skills as part of his training as well as spending time in each department to get a rounded view of the business as a whole. He will complete a

82

www.edgemagazine.org

9 month ‘on the job’ training programme with dedicated Mentor support, as well as joining up with other trainees across the network to develop his knowledge.

“Stuart Hood, Dealer Principal at Graypaul Birmingham says: “We are delighted to welcome such a pioneering scheme to our business. We believe that developing individuals in this way can only lead to great things and Andrew is already proving to be a natural with the many business processes required to carry out the role of a salesman.

The scheme was offered to us on a buy-in basis, and we certainly wanted to buy-in to what we see as an opportunity to set a brand new benchmark within our industry, as well as develop new talent in-house to the level befitting of the brands that we represent here.”

At the end of the programme, Andrew will have gained the key skills and knowledge necessary to deliver exceptional customer service for these prestigious brands.

He has been with the dealership in Shirley, Solihull for some weeks now.

When asked his initial thoughts on the new scheme and how he was settling in, he responded “The placement is even better than expected! I’ve settled in to dealership life really quickly and feel very comfortable in the working environment. I’ve learnt a lot of things from numerous people in the business and I am starting to build my confidence with the brands and the cars we sell.

I’m really keen to learn as much as I can about the brand, business processes and the products that we sell, which sits well with my course modules. I believe that knowledge builds confidence so the more I know about our products and competitors, the better I’ll be at communicating with customers and helping them reach a decision on the car they want.”

To read the full Q&A session with Andrew Constable, visit the Graypaul Birmingham website at: www.graypaul-birmingham.co.uk.

For further information on the event, contact the sales team at Graypaul Birmingham on: 0121 701 2458.

G H I B L I

THE HEAD SAYS YES. THE HEART SAYS DEFINITELY, YES.

MASERATI GHIBLI. THE ABSOLUTE OPPOSITE OF ORDINARY. STARTING FROM £49,160

THE NEW MASERATI GHIBLI IS POWERED BY A RANGE OF ADVANCED 3.0 LITRE V6 ENGINES WITH 8-SPEED ZF AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION, INCLUDING, FOR THE FIRST TIME, A V6 TURBODIESEL ENGINE. Official fuel consumption figures for Maserati Ghibli range in mpg (l/100km): Urban 18.0 (15.7) – 37.2 (7.6), Extra Urban 38.7 (7.3) – 56.5 (5.0), Combined 27.2 (10.4) – 47.9 (5.9). CO2 emissions 242 – 158 g/km.

Fuel consumption and CO2 figures are based on standard EU tests for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. Model shown is a Maserati Ghibli S at £70,598 On The Road including optional pearlescent paint at £1,776, 21” Titano design alloy wheels at £3,670 and Red brake callipers at £432.

Calls will be recorded for training purposes.

GRAYPAUL BIRMINGHAM 120 HIGHLANDS ROAD, SHIRLEY SOLIHULL, B90 4NU Phone: 0121 293 1108 www.graypaul-birmingham.co.uk

www.maserati.co.uk

SET YOUR SIGHTS HIGH

Homes H omes from

£99,500 * Residents’ privileges apply

Intelligence | Style | Discernment The Cube’s East Wing is for those seeking the next level in city residence. Presenting the HOME COLLECTION – an elite community of brand new apartments, reserved exclusively for those who both own and live in their properties. Be part of an established neighbourhood and enjoy a home that is simply a cut above the rest.

0121 200 2220

Show apartment viewing by appointment www.thecube.co.uk

0121 347 6116 *Price correct at time of publication