Edge Magazine May 2013 Edition

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EdgeMagazine May 2013 FREE EDITION

Your essential guide to Warwickshire, Worcestershire and the West Midlands

About Face

An evening out

The Barber Institute’s landmark exhibition

Discover Pershore and Evesham

Avoncroft Museum

Pushkar: a review

Asparafest

Ignite a passion for blacksmithing

Culinary traditions reinvented

Our prized vegetable

Food & Drink • Culture • Business • Fashion • Lifestyle

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EDITOR’S BIT Welcome to the May edition of Edge Magazine. This month marks a very special celebration in the Vale of Evesham. The asparagus season has well and truly begun. And in our ode to asparagus, we’ve focused on Evesham and Pershore; bringing you alternative nights out with film and music at Number 8 Community Centre and big laughs at Evesham Art Centre’s Comedy Festival. Asparafest kicks off on June 1st, with a weekend of entertainment. It’s going to be quite the village spectacular. In food news, we have all the secrets on the power of green superfoods (asparagus included, naturally) and our Pick of the Month feature with our choice of eateries this May. If you haven’t been to Pushkar in Birmingham, then our review should be enough to entice you. Thinking of revamping your interiors this summer? Well we have fresh ideas for flooring, blinds, beautiful paint and some interior design boutiques you need to know about. Or perhaps you’re feeling like a revamp yourself? In which case, we have the best in beauty, getting you ready for the beach.

Michael Abu-Zalaf Editor-in-Chief

It’s craft and design month, if you didn’t know already. So, we’ve got everything you need to see at Ruskin Glass Centre, fun for all the family at Evesham Country Park’s Spring Craft and Gift Fair and Avoncroft Museum’s courses on blacksmithing. So if you’re thinking of taking up a new hobby this summer, check it out. We’ve also got a thought-provoking piece on the Shelanu Craft Collective, based in Birmingham, creating a sense of place through jewellery-making. On behalf of the team at Edge, have a great May, enjoy the asparagus and we hope to see you all again next month. If you like what you see in Edge Magazine, please show your support by liking our Facebook page and following us on Twitter, as well as checking out our website at: www.edgemagazine.org

FEATURES About Face....................................................8

Pushkar: a review........................................40

Asparafest..................................….............26

Avoncroft Museum.......................................70

The Barber Institute's landmark exhibition

Our prized vegatable

Culinary traditions reinvented

Ignite a passion for blacksmithing

An evening out............................................28 Discover Pershore and Evesham

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CONTENTS About Face

8

The local kitchen

42

Discover photography

11

Bordeaux uncorked

44

Bee is for beauty

12

Pick of the month

46

The buzz about bees

15

KSH Flooring

48

Beach body beautiful

16

Escape the chains

52

Body after baby

18

The Plague: a review

55

British pond life

20

Four wheel life

57

Go green

22

Edge Forward

58

Hillers recipe

24

Emerging markets

60

The Hillers food story

25

Writing a will

61

Asparafest

26

The Prince’s Trust

62

Laugh out loud

28

Another golden year

64

The great big almonry project

30

A lesson in confidence

65

Get crafty

33

Equestrian excellence

66

Pershore’s cultural home

35

Craft and design month

68

What’s on

36

Avoncroft Museum

70

Pushkar: a review

40

A sense of place

72

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EdgeMagazine

THE TEAM EDITORIAL Michael Abu-Zalaf - Editor in Chief

CONTRIBUTORS Andrew Davies

Mike Stafford

Chris Brown

Liam Bird

Tel:07809 702 992

Vic Vijh

Sophie Overend

Lucinda Bunn - Copy Editor

Hilary Collins

Phil Potter

Mel Taffs

Tom Ware

@ZalafAbu -

michael@edgemagazine.org

@lucindabunn -

lucinda@edgemagazine.org

Hannah Griffiths - Editorial Assistant @EdgeMag_Hannah-

hannah@edgemagazine.org

Tonia Collett Laura Clay

SALES

Contact us at:

Alice Perrey - Sales Executive

INFO@EDGEMAGAZINE.ORG Write to us at: 20 Droitwich Road Feckenham Worcestershire B96 6HX

@alice_perrey -

alice@edgemagazine.org

Tel:07714 490 943 Michele Ford - Sales Executive @EdgeMag_Michele -

michele@edgemagazine.org

Tel:07515 493 703

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ABOUT FACE

The Barber Institute’s landmark exhibition Andrew Davies

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or the first time in the history of Birmingham’s Barber Institute of Fine Arts, major paintings by Rembrandt, Goya, and Cézanne will hang in its galleries. This summer, these famous works are part of an intriguing collaboration with three major national art collections and the climax of the Barber’s 80th anniversary year celebration programme. Meanwhile, some of the finest masterpieces from the Barber – the art collection, gallery and original concert hall for the University of Birmingham – will be on display at London’s National Gallery in a landmark exhibition placing one of the Heart of England’s undoubted cultural treasures on a world stage. Since December, the Barber has been celebrating the 80th anniversary of its foundation by its Worcestershire-born patron, Lady Hattie Barber. The anniversary is being marked by an extensive programme of major exhibitions, displays, loans, concerts and other events, celebrating the history and particular qualities of the Barber and its founders.

Portrait of Hendrickje Stoffels, about 1654-6 - by Rembrandt (1606 1669) The National Gallery, London

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When Lady Barber began discussions with the Vice Chancellor of the University of Birmingham in the late 1920s, she stipulated that the Barber’s collection should be ‘…of that standard of quality required by the National Gallery or the Wallace Collection’. Now, major portraits painted by Rembrandt, Lucas van Leyden, Goya and Cézanne have been lent by the National Gallery and form the centerpiece of a fascinating display around the gallery called About Face (17 May – 1 September). They are complemented by a stunning selection of mesmerising portrait miniatures and drawings by masters such as Nicholas Hilliard and Van Dyck lent by the Royal Collections Trust. Also visiting the Barber will be Sir Peter Lely’s highly enigmatic and magnificent painting The Concert, lent by the Courtauld Gallery in London. The loans will be displayed throughout the Barber galleries and alongside similar works from the Barber’s own collection. These exciting visitors will certainly add to the Barber’s galleries over the summer and show the Barber’s own works in a new light. It will also enable

Isaac Oliver, Charles I when Duke of York c.1611-16. Watercolour on vellum laid on playing card (two hearts visible)

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gallery-goers to judge whether the acquisitions by the Barber Institute’s six directors live up to its benefactress’s lofty aspirations. After Lady Barber’s death in 1932 and while the Barber Institute was being planned and built, its first director, Professor Thomas Bodkin started fulfilling her wishes by purchasing works for the collection by many of the greatest names in the history of Western art. Twelve of these – including masterpieces by Tintoretto, Turner, Manet and Monet – were purchased before the galleries were complete and ready to receive them. As an interim measure, Bodkin arranged for most of them to be displayed or stored at the National Gallery. Now, these twelve works are to be reunited at a high-profile show at the National Gallery over the summer, entitled Birth of a Collection: Masterpieces from the Barber Institute of Fine Arts (22 May – 1 September), presenting the story of the foundation of the Barber Institute to a national audience. Simultaneously, a selection of beautiful decorative art objects from the Barber will be on display at London’s Wallace Collection.

The Barber’s Director, Nicola Kalinsky, says ‘it is very fitting that the highpoint of our anniversary takes the form of collaborations with major UK collections. I am sure that the 12 paintings that form Birth of a Collection will look quite at home in the National Gallery, likewise our loans to the Wallace, while the London masterpieces visiting the Barber will fit perfectly alongside their Birmingham equivalents’. Lady Barber herself will be star of the show this month during the return of the Barber’s hugely popular Family Open Day, this year entitled Lady Barber’s Big Birthday Bash. This fun-packed day of art, music activities and performances will feature a play based on the Barber’s comical Brueghel masterpiece, art and craft-making activities, storytelling with Lady B, her husband and the artist who painted her portrait more than 25 times - and even a kazoo orchestra. For further details, visit the Barber website at www.barber.org.uk.

Sir Peter Lely, The Concert, about 1650. Oil on canvas. The Samuel Courtauld Trust, The Courtauld Gallery, London

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Tom Hunter at the Bullion Works, Jewellery Quarter.

Birminghan coffin works by Tom Hunter

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DISCOVER PHOTOGRAPHY Findings in Birmingham Chris Brown

I

n one of his few forays to make work outside of London, the internationally acclaimed artist photographer, Tom Hunter, has been commissioned to make a new body of work in Birmingham. Using a simple pinhole camera, Hunter is exploring and revealing a variety of historical and modern spaces in the city’s historic Jewellery Quarter and Colmore Business District. Throughout February, Hunter has been given unique access to many of the outstanding listed buildings, unique industrial heritage, public spaces and places of worship, education and learning that make up so much of the vibrant historical and contemporary culture in the city. The project takes its inspiration from the various definitions of the word ‘findings’ – from an act of discovery to the tools of an artisan. The commission will be exhibited in a curated show in the public realm from April 25th to July 19th 2013.

I now take my pinhole photography back in time to Birmingham, to illuminate and document this very special place’. Findings is a new commission from GRAIN: the photography hub and network for the West Midlands, an Arts Council England funded project based at the Library of Birmingham. The commission has been developed in partnership with Colmore Business District, the Jewellery Quarter Business District and Birmingham City University, supported by Arts Council England, Metro Imaging and the Thistle, Birmingham. For further information please visit www.findingsbirmingham.co.uk

Pete James, Curator of Photographic Collections, Library of Birmingham, says of the commission ‘Tom Hunter’s decision to combine arcane equipment and modern materials reveals a number of fascinating resonances with the history of photography in Birmingham. The long exposures required by Hunter’s pinhole camera result in impressionistic images saturated with colour and the atmospheric qualities of paintings’. Tom Hunter, whose work has been shown at the National Gallery, Saatchi Gallery, White Cue Gallery and in a recent commission at The Victoria and Albert Museum says, ‘for me this project is a journey back into the country’s industrial heritage and at the same time a personal journey into my own history. Many of the buildings I have photographed so far are monuments to this industrial past, showing us the fingerprints of working lives and the products that these endeavors created and from them a way of life and culture. I have always been attracted to these shrines from a disappearing world, a world my grandfather was meshed too, with his engineering company in Birmingham. A world I have explored through photography in Hackney Wick, where the industrial landscape became a playground for the dispossessed and is now reincarnated as an Olympic wonderland. All these elements have aligned themselves in this photographic essay, connecting my history to my country’s and Birmingham to Hackney. In the same way Alexander Parkes of Birmingham invented Parkesine, the base material of my film and took it to Hackney Wick to be mass-produced.

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BEE IS FOR BEAUTY Unlock the secrets to ageless skin Lucinda Bunn

I

t seems everything produced by the busy pollinators is proving to have some kind of salubrious property. And with that in mind, we thought we’d let you know what bees can do for your skin. So here’s the bee list. Royal Jelly For bees, this rarefied goo is used to feed the queen but royal jelly has been shown to support cell regeneration and build collagen too. It’s power-packed with antioxidants, minerals and proteins. Royal jelly has also been studied for its qualities in protecting the skin from the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation from the sun. This radiation damages the collagen that supports your skin and that’s what causes wrinkling. The damaging rays can also lead to unwanted discoloration of the skin. But royal jelly, with its nutrients, helps to protect the skin for the harmful rays. Collagen is stimulated and abnormal colouring is prevented. If it can transform a drone into a queen, imagine what it can do for you. Bee Propolis Propolis from trees and shrubs is collected by bees and combined with beeswax to produce an antiseptic resin which sterilises the hives and protects the colony from disease. It’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory and so dermatologists recommend bee propolis for treating acne. The skin-purifying agent encourages tissue repair and regeneration so it’s perfect for broken and irritated skin. Using bee propolis is the totally natural way to cleanse and purify your skin.

Bee Venom Ever since K-Mids admitted to having a bee venom facial before the Royal Wedding, it seems Britain has been stung with intrigue. Apparently the venom stimulates the production of collagen and elastin while relaxing your muscles to provide a Botox-like effect when applied. The scientists say it hinders rapid nerve activity, acting like a topical neurotoxin to smooth muscles. There are also studies revealing that bee venom can boost the number of epidermal keratinocyte cells, which provide protection against water loss and sun damage. And what’s more, no bees are harmed in the harvesting of the venom. A plate of glass with a mild electric current is introduced near the hive; the bees sting it but their stingers remain intact. So your conscience will stay as clear as your skin. Note: Cosmetics containing bee products can occasionally cause allergic reactions in some people. Always conduct an allergy test and research ingredients.

Beeswax Versatile and widely used in the cosmetic industry, beeswax has the unique ability to add solidity to emulsified solutions, help stabilise emulsions and to increase the water-holding capabilities of ointments and creams. In lipsticks, beeswax improves sheen, consistency and stabilises the colour. In creams and lotions, beeswax creates a superior appearance and softness and in hair products, it not only ensures manageability but it nourishes your hair from root to tip. Beeswax is nonpore-clogging too, so it’s suitable even for problem skin. Bee-lieve it.

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Honey Face Mask – tried and tested by the Edge team Take a tea spoon of honey and smear it evenly over your clean face. Leave it on for ten minutes to half an hour. Rinse off with warm water and pat your face dry. Oh, and remember to use local honey.

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THE BUZZ ABOUT BEES Did you know? Hannah Griffiths

T

he majority of people assume that a bee visits a plant, takes the pollen and produces honey and whilst that’s true, there are other things keeping them busy. Now if you thought you knew everything there was to know about bees think again. We’ve conjured up some of the most amazing and unusual facts about our little garden friends. Not all bees die once they’ve stung you. Surprisingly, it is only the honey bee that dies after stinging a victim. This is due to the fact that a honey bee’s stinger has a barb which anchors it into the body of the victim. Bumblebees, on the other hand, can sting multiple times as their stingers are smooth and do not get caught in the skin when they fly away. Bees are carnivorous. For the majority of the time bees are herbivorous, foraging for the pollen and nectar gathered from the plants they visit. However, if a bee becomes stressed they can turn on their existing brood, cannibalising them as a means of survival. Bees communicate by dancing. Often referred to as a ‘waggle dance’, the foraging female honey bee performs a dance once she has found a great source of nectar and pollen. The dance informs the rest of the hive in three ways; firstly it communicates the direction to the source, followed by a sample of the source and then finally distinguishing how far away it is so that the colony can retreat to collect the necessary pollen and nectar. Bees cannot see the colour red. Bees, similarly to humans, are trichromatic, meaning they have three photoreceptors within the eye. Humans base their colour combinations on red, blue and green, where as a bee bases its colours on UV, blue and green as they have a hard time seeing red and cannot distinguish it from the surrounding green, leafy backgrounds. Bees that frequently visit red flowers either perceive them in the colour they see, or it is due to the fact the red flower is not being lost against a green background.

A honey bee will only make one twelfth of a teaspoon of honey in its lifetime. Although each bee will approximately visit 200 million flowers in its lifetime, a bee will only ever be able to produce around one twelfth of a teaspoon of honey. On average bees fly 55,000 miles to make just one pound of honey; the same distance as flying one and a half times around the world. Nectar Points A teaspoon of local honey a day can ward off allergies such as hay fever. This is also true for animals, as it helps to develop a resistance to pollen. When cooking with honey, some of the flavour ingredients will be lost, so its quality is less significant. The runnier the honey and the faster its bubbles rise when the jar is turned upside down, the more likely it is to have been adulterated with sugar syrup. Honey will never go bad. The unique chemical composition of low water content and high acidic level means that honey makes an unfavourable environment for bacteria or other micro-organisms to grow. Honey’s colour and flavour differs depending on the nectar source visited by the honey bees. Darker honeys for instance tend to taste stronger whereas lighter honeys usually have more glucose and crystallise quicker.

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BEACH BODY BEAUTIFUL Air Aesthetics has the answer Lucinda Bunn

D

reading swimsuit season? Have no fear; Air Aesthetics have the solution to your summer wardrobe woes. Instead of rushing to find optical illusion dresses and suck-in bikini bottoms, you could make a difference to your body this summer that will give you long-lasting confidence on and off the beach.

If you’ve got stubborn bulges that diet and exercise just won’t shift, then CoolSculpting will change your life. CoolSculpting is the only non-surgical alternative to liposuction clinically approved by the FDA*. Using revolutionary technology, CoolSculpting targets and crystallises fat cells with controlled cooling. These cells gradually die and are naturally eliminated from your body via your liver and lymphatic system. The non-invasive procedure is totally safe. You’ll see the initial results after 30 days and you’ll see the final results after 90 days. CoolSculpting can reduce your stubborn fat by up to 40% in one single treatment. Exclusive to Central England, CoolSculpting is available at Air Aesthetics of Henley in Arden and is only performed by trained medical professionals. Dr Claire Oliver, an experienced and highly skilled aesthetics practitioner, says ‘the good news is that you can be confident on the beach and shape up in as little as 90 days with CoolSculpting; a safe, non-invasive solution. There are no needles, scalpels and no anesthesia required’, she explains. ‘Essentially, there is no downtime and no side effects. The non-invasive procedure is revolutionary and achieves permanent results’. So if you’ve been battling with your lumps and bumps whilst maintaining a healthy lifestyle, CoolSculpting is for you. Now’s your chance to make a change this summer. Don’t hide behind sarongs and cover-ups, instead make the beach body of your dreams yours at Air Aesthetics.

For more information on CoolSculpting, head to www.airaesthetics.co.uk

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BODY AFTER BABY

All the facts from The Beauty Gurus clinic Mr Vic Vijh

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ne of the most frequent statements that I hear in my plastic surgery clinic is, ‘I have had my babies, I have completed my family and now I want to do something for me’. Pregnancy and bearing children ravages a woman’s body. The most common complaints are the affects that child bearing has on their abdomen (tummy) and their breasts. With a woman’s abdomen, it is not just the skin that gets stretched during pregnancy. The muscles that form the ‘six pack’ (the rectus abdominis muscles) are pulled apart and the strong fascia that holds them together in the middle of the abdomen is stretched. As a result, many women who have worked hard to lose their pregnancy weight still have a bulging abdomen, simply because their muscles are in the wrong place and their intestines are bulging forward through the gap. Often they find they have developed hernias through their belly button, and may complain of pain there. The skin from the abdomen is stretched and does not always go back to its pre-pregnancy position leaving folds of extra skin, often with stretch marks on it. This can be made worse if they have had a caesarian section because the scar can cause an indent in the lower abdomen, which encourages the skin to fold over and form a small ‘apron’. The pregnancy weight gain is often difficult to shift. All these problems lead to patients saying ‘I dress to hide it’. It is always sensible to initially try diet and exercise but where the muscles are badly damaged and the skin is very stretched, this isn’t always enough. A good quality tummy tuck, should address most if not all of these problems. The procedure allows a surgeon to repair the damaged muscles, to fix a hernia in the belly button, to release a tethered caesarian section scar, to remove excess skin and even do a little liposuction to improve the overall shape and make your tummy curve in the right places. With post-pregnancy breasts the most common problem is loss of volume to the breasts after breast feeding - it is almost like the breasts have deflated and have lost their upper pole fullness. This translates to two main problems for the patient - breasts that have shrunk and breasts that have sagged. It is clear that if the breast has shrunk a breast augmentation will help. Similarly if the breast is the same volume but has sagged the solution is to do a breast uplift procedure. The real challenge is when a breast has shrunk and sagged together. In general, my advice is to decide which of the two problems bothers you most and deal with that one first. The majority of patients are happy with the one procedure but for

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those who still want the second procedure, this can be done 3 months later. The advantage of doing these two procedures separately is that you have a much higher chance of getting a good result than if you do them together. I can never stress enough how important it is to take care when choosing your surgeon and your hospital: • Your surgeon must be on the United Kingdom General Medical Council specialist register for plastic surgery. They should be members of BAAPS and/or BAPRAS and ideally, they should have held an NHS consultant post in plastic surgery. You should do an internet search on your chosen surgeon to check their credentials. • Ask about your anaesthetist, make sure they have held an NHS consultant post. • Make sure you are going to a proper, fully equipped private hospital, not a back street clinic. • Always ask about the make, model and quality of your implants. Make sure you have time to cool off and think about things before parting with your money. Remember that if something does not feel right, you can walk away. Beauty Gurus patient testimonial: ‘I was under the care of Mr Vijh for my tummy tuck. I had an overhang post childbirth which I found both unsightly and uncomfortable under certain clothing. The care, attention and quality of the surgery was outstanding from start to finish. I imagine I am typical of thousands of women in similar situations. I think surgery is a big step but with the right surgeon and the right information, it can be a hugely positive experience. It certainly has been for me’ Mrs Annette Monaghan, following her abdominoplasty surgery For more advice and guidance contact us at www.thebeautygurus.com The Lodge Spire Southbank Hospital Worcester 0800 612 5919

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EdgeMagazine

BRITISH POND LIFE

Don’t just be a gardener, become a wildlife guardian Hilary Collins

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emember those salad days, running barefoot through damp meadows, down to a bulrushfringed pond? Sunlight dancing on the sparkling water, brilliant yellow irises; sapphire-blue and emeraldgreen flashes of dragonflies zinging past with an excited whirr. A breeze whispers through the reeds. Sitting quietly in the cool shadows of the weeping willow, you hear the gentle plop and gloop of frogs, jumping into the depths, to greet Morpheus (god of dreams).

A few tips:

Sadly, reality is far from this idyllic vision. In fact, the latest statistics are alarming. Britain’s ponds, lakes and watery byways are in a terrible state; a tragic testament after a century of neglect and vandalism. The 2010 Countryside Survey states that over half of the UK’s 1 million ponds were lost during the 20th century. 80% of those remaining are very poor, their biological condition ruined over the past decade alone.

• Avoid sitting your pond under trees; roots and leaves are problematic.

Our ponds support more endangered freshwater animals and plants and a wider range of common species than lakes and rivers. The latter currently fail to meet European standards for supporting aquatic residents. Improvements to our waterways enjoyed during the 1990s have ceased and 75% of English and Welsh rivers are too polluted to support fish, animals and plants. It seems that sparkling clean water for Ratty and Mole has been all but eliminated from Britain. Why is this happening you ask? Modern agricultural practices can be partly blamed. Many existing ponds are shaded and overgrown. Silt and fertilisers leach from field to ditch to stream but that is nothing compared to the oily salt-laden contaminated water running off our roads and millions of gallons of effluent flooding daily from industrial facilities into our rivers. We have all contributed to this disaster, through our modern lifestyle; it simply isn’t sustainable. Enough doom and gloom - what’s to be done? One report declares that cleaning existing contaminated ponds is unachievable. The way forward is to create new ponds, providing much needed wildlife habitats, not only in the countryside but also in towns and cities. Indeed, the sub-urban pond is currently hailed as being a most successful environment for common frogs. Now I admit, one doesn’t (shouldn’t) grab a spade and rush out to the garden and begin digging a pond. There is much to consider.

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• Safety first: if you have young children, the pond needs to be safe. Achieve this by incorporating diamon-dek (www.pondsafety.com) into your aquatic plans. Messing about in ponds is all part of growing-up and children (future ecologists and politicians) can learn a great deal about the need for clean, wildlife-secure environments from your pond.

• Design in shallow sides and a beach, so animals can escape; wet mud is good for bees and birds too. • Bog gardens encourage amphibians. • Include a small shrubbery with log piles for beetles and hibernating animals. • A good quality liner with underlay will be essential, if you are not blessed with clay-fed with groundwater (many of us are not!). • Fill your pond with rain water. The minerals in tap water upset the chemical balance of your pool. • ‘No fish please, we’re amphibians!’ Avoid fish. They have anti-social habits, eating baby newts and tadpoles. • It is vital to use native plant species that suit your size of pond. Each plant does a specific job, oxygenating and/ or cleaning the water, providing 30% summer shade to discourage blanket-weed or acting as a Dragonfly nursery. • Avoid lawn weed-killers, fertilisers or slug pellets close to your new sanctuary; ponds are environmentally sensitive. All this effort does have a reward. Adding a well-designed pond with bog garden is guaranteed to be the most effective way of encouraging wildlife to your garden. Not only will you benefit newts, frogs, toads and a whole host of invertebrates but thirsty hedgehogs, birds, butterflies and bees need a watering hole too. In turn, they will eat your greenfly, slugs, caterpillars and vine-weevils. Formal garden pools with steep concrete sides are wildlife unfriendly; they are death-traps for adult amphibians and small mammals.

www.edgemagazine.org

Pond creation is not an exact science; like most things in nature, it’s all a question of balance and best achieved slowly over a period of time. Strive for the right environment and the wildlife will usually find you. If you have no inclination to acquire personal pond-life or you have no garden, there are ways in which you can help improve life for our wet friends: join the Million Ponds Project with its ambition to create half a million new high-quality, clean-water ponds in the UK. Visit www. pondconservation.org.uk and explore their fantastic website with pond dipping forays, charity projects and advice on installing your own pond. Don’t just be a gardener, become a wildlife guardian; declare your garden a protectorate for frogs and toads. Before installing a pond, please research your project thoroughly to avoid mistakes; visit the pond website for advice and check your local legislation.

Hilary Collins BSc. (Hons)hort., M.I.Hort. Envisage...gardens by design Grower, Horticultural Consultant and Garden Designer Grafton Nursery Grafton Flyford, Worcester WR7 4PW For advice on ponds, garden design, landscape construction and planting contact: www.envisage-gardens.co.uk & www.grafton-nursery.co.uk

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EdgeMagazine

GO GREEN

Superfoods to make you feel super Melanie Taffs

The benefits of eating green are endless. So here is a run through of my favourite green foods and why they’re so super. Incorporating more green foods into your diet will give you a detox before the summer and hey, if you’re not a big fan of broccoli or the thought of kale makes your toes curl, you can whip up green smoothies with apple juice, so all that healthy goodness is mixed into one drink. ASPARAGUS Asparagus not only tastes delicious, it’s a wonderful source of nutrients and benefits to your health. And with asparagus season starting, it’s time to get steaming. Asparagus is full of antioxidants. Glutathione contains

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three amino acids that combine into one molecule that serves as a really powerful antioxidant. Along with vitamin C, vitamin A, zinc, manganese and selenium, asparagus helps to fight signs of ageing and free radicals. Vitamin B complex with folic acid is essential for a healthy cardiovascular system too and it’s found in abundance in asparagus. It also regulates the amino acid Homocysteine, which in high levels can be a strong risk factor in heart disease. Finally, B vitamins such as choline, biotin and pantothenic acid manage our blood sugar levels by metabolising sugars and starches. Asparagus contains a carbohydrate called insulin which promotes a healthy gut. This also promotes the friendly bacteria which is vital for the immune system.

www.edgemagazine.org SPINACH Spinach is a winter super food and after this year’s weather we are all in great need of this truly miraculous vegetable. It has a high content of potassium and a low content of sodium, these two together help maintain blood pressure and the folate present in spinach reduces hypertension and relaxes blood vessels. Spinach is made up of various properties which have been known to help prevent cancers such as lung, bladder, prostate and liver. Folate, chlorophyllin and tocopherol all play an important role in helping to prevent cancer. If you want to improve your bone health, Vitamin K retains calcium in the bones along with minerals such as manganese, copper, magnesium, zinc and phosphorus, this can help prevent osteoporosis and spinach is great source of vitamin K. Popeye as we know was always eating spinach to get big and strong, because of its high protein content. Therefore it’s a really important vegetable to give young children for integral growth development.

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KALE Per calorie, kale has more iron than beef; it’s essential for the formation of haemoglobin and enzymes transporting oxygen to various parts of the body, cell growth and proper liver function. Vitamin C is imperative in maintaining a healthy immune system, metabolism and hydration. And per calorie kale has more calcium than milk, which aids in preventing bone loss, preventing osteoporosis and maintaining a healthy metabolism. If you want a new season detox, the fibre and sulphur content in kale is great for detoxing the body and cleansing the liver. Kale is low in fat and one cup contains 36 calories. It also has 5 grams of fibre and 0 grams of fat and it’s also great for aiding digestion. BROCCOLI Some of us love it and some of us hate it but there’s no denying that broccoli is a nutritional wonder. Broccoli contains a high amount of potassium, which helps maintain a healthy nervous system and it contains glucoraphanin, which helps with the prevention of sun damage. Boosting your immune system with broccoli is easy. One cup of broccoli will do the trick with a large dose of beta carotene. Trace minerals such as zinc and selenium act further to strengthen the immune system even more. If you’re dieting and trying to shed the last few pounds before your summer holiday, this vegetable is high in fibre which aids digestion, prevents constipation, maintains low blood sugar and curbs overeating. It also contains protein with half the calories.

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Sick of doing fad diets that don’t work? Want to change bad eating habits for life and maintain a healthy weight? If so, call Absolutely Flab u less on 07792421080 Alternatively, email melanietaffs7@gmail .com

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EdgeMagazine

Hillers salmon and asparagus quiche – serves 4 Ingredients:

Method:

Shortcrust Pastry

Pastry

Pastry case of approximately 6 inches in diameter

• Mix flour, margarine and lard into fine bread crumbs

100g plain flour

• Add enough water gradually to make a firm dough

25g margarine

• Roll to approximately 4mm in thickness and line a pastry case

25g lard Quiche Filling 100g salmon 5 spears Hillers asparagus 100g cheddar cheese 2 eggs ¼ pint of milk Pinch of salt and pepper

• Blind bake for 20 minutes on 160°C Quiche filling • Grate cheese and sprinkle on the bottom of the pastry case • Add salmon and asparagus next, use as much or as little as you like • Make custard – mix eggs, milk and season with salt and pepper • Pour into case then bake for 30 minutes at 140°C or until set.

Why not try something different and make individual quiches?

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www.edgemagazine.org

THE HILLERS FOOD STORY Taste the difference at Hillers Farm Shop Lucinda Bunn

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he summer season is the ripe time to make a change in the way you food shop. Kick start the warmer months with a new meal plan and a whole food initiative, eating fresh local food. Let me guess, you haven’t got time to go to two shops - but Hillers Farm Shop have Ragley Estate meats, the Fish Shop and their own delicatessen and cheese counter. Or are you worried about your fresh food going in the compost bin before you’ve had a chance to eat it? Well, earthlings, we have some tips to get the most from your trip to Hillers Farm Shop, where you really can taste the difference.

Make local choices Hillers Farm Shop are committed to supplying the best, fresh local produce, either from their own farm, neighbouring growers or those in the Vale of Evesham. Hillers now have in their fresh strawberries, picked and prepped just 7 miles from the shop. It’s the local produce that really stands out and you really can taste the difference. The succulent, fragrant strawberries are as beautiful as they are flavourful. Tomatoes are also big for Hillers this season. You can’t beat the flavour of fresh, ripe tomatoes. If you want to make delicious salads this season, salsas for tapas or chunky slices for your barbecued burgers, then beautiful, local tomatoes will make your summer sweet. Tomatoes are surprisingly delicate so the best place to store them is on the counter at room temperature.

Your seasonal shopping list Eating seasonally is good for your health and the environment; it’s also good for your bank balance. So head to Hillers and you’ll find a beautiful range of locally grown fruit and veg. Forget limp lettuces and mouldy leaves, say goodbye to squashed fruit and soggy herbs and hello to glorious fresh food, grown on your doorstep.

It also pays to plan ahead. Before your trip to Hillers, make a list of fruit and veggies according to your meal options. That way, you can stock up on the delicious vegetables that will last longer in your store cupboard and treat yourself to fresh fruit to eat the same day.

Asparagus season is always an exciting time, especially for Hillers. Their asparagus is grown just 1 mile down the road from the shop so the transport and packaging costs are small. The asparagus is collected from the field daily as it is harvested and you can taste the difference as asparagus is best eaten fresh. It’s at a competitive price too, just £7.80 per kilo. Hillers own strawberries, leeks and spring cabbages are now available and will almost certainly have been picked the very same day you see them on the shelves. Local tomatoes from Broadway are ripe juicy and ready to eat, along with many varieties of local lettuce including Oakley, Green Oakley, Frisee, Flat Lettuce and Lollo Rosso (all grown on Hollis’ Farm half a mile away). Rhubarb and cauliflowers are grown on Drumonds Farm, Evesham. Dunnington Heath Farm, Alcester, Warwickshire, B49 5PD 01789 77277 www.hillers.co.uk

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EdgeMagazine

ASPARAFEST Our prized vegetable

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elcome one and all, to the brand new Asparafest 2013 – a friendly festival we like to think of as an extreme village fete. A packed weekend of entertainment from Asparagus Eating Competitions through to a petting Zoo via a mix of magical music, the freshest food, fascinating farm and country crafts, frolicsome fun, barrels of beer...and awesome asparagus. The Vale of Evesham has strong historical connections with the production of asparagus and for years the biggest and best crop of the green spear has been auctioned off in aid of the Bretforton Silver Band at the world renowned National Trust pub, the Fleece Inn. The auctions have grown and grown over more than 30 years and the many thousands raised have helped the Silver Band to become the last remaining village Silver Band in the county. For years the auction has been followed by a celebration at the Fleece but this year the organisers have decided it’s time to go large and host a festival that packs a punch and so, Asparafest is born. The only question is, is it a food festival with music...or a music festival with food? The festival is built on traditional values and reflects the feel of a village fete with the inclusion of local food producers and traders, hand crafts, kids’ entertainment and a strong community ethos. The festival will showcase a wealth of local produce from small businesses in and around the Vale and beyond. Many old and traditional crafts will be demonstrated and the traditions of the British Isles reinforced by the attendance of some of the best dance sides in the country, including Earlsdon Morris Men, Newcastle Kingsmen Sword and Jake Jones and Dan Eccles, who perform Appalachian stepping as you've never seen it before. Local traditions are represented by Pebworth Morris, Belle de Vain and the brand new Asam Gras Molly dancers. And don’t miss the genuine WW2 re-enactment posse that has been featured in the BBC's television series Land Girls. From the traditional to the exotic, showgirls with Carmen Miranda style headdresses (complete with asparagus) will parade the site, plus belly dancers and Bhangra dancers will fill the dance stage.

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Back to our prized vegetable - the Asparamancer will tell your fortune with her mystical asparagus, there will be storytelling by Gus and the Asparafairy and even asparagus poems read by Trevor Harrison (best known as Eddie Grundy in The Archers). Families can learn more about growing with Mr Bloom, from the hugely popular children’s show Mr Bloom’s Nursery. Toddlers to teenagers will all find something to do at AsparaFest. A petting zoo, a vintage fair, human gyroscope and the Youth Activity Zone are just some of the highlights, also joining the Festival are JunkFish with their arts and crafts tent and Sheridan the robotic sheepdog. A musical smorgasbord awaits visitors to Asparafest 2013. From folk to blues to jazz, the eclectic mix means no one will be disappointed. As well as King Pleasure and the Biscuit Boys, nowhere else will the likes of Gus and his Gussettes grace the festival circuit. Tickets are on sale now for just £7 for adults from www.asparafest.co.uk

1st – 2nd June 2013

www.edgemagazine.org

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LAUGH OUT LOUD Evesham Comedy Festival Hannah Griffiths

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ollowing on from the huge success of last year, Evesham Arts Centre Comedy Festival returns for its third consecutive year. Running for four nights from the 23rd-26th May this year’s festival is full to the brim with some of the best names in the comedy circuit. This year’s programme includes stand-up heroes like Sean Collins, Mike Gunn and Hal Cruttendan, alongside local youth comedians competing in a showcase final. Here’s the line-up to this year’s festival, if you think you can handle it. First up is Raw Comedy, a group of six up-and-coming comedians doing their stuff, overseen by an experienced Master of Ceremonies - the impeccably turned out Tom Young. The evening’s line-up includes: the silly and clever Robert Kemp, northern one-liner merchant Chris Ashton, improv/topical act Chris Tavner, sassy comic and broadcaster Lolie Ware, the brilliantly-named Bobby Honeybun and the deeply seasonal Winter Foenander. Hal Cruttenden’s Tough Luvvie is next up and following stand-out performances on Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow, Live At The Apollo, The Royal Variety Performance and The Edinburgh Comedy Gala (BBC3), Hal is strongly tipped as the next big thing. Simultaneously warm and catty, straight and camp, it’s a lovely mix that has made him a regular guest on John Bishops’s show Only Joking and led to two sitcoms being produced this year. On the third night of the festival Sean Collins and Mike Gunn present The Still on the Roadshow Tour performing extended solo sets culminating in an improvised double-act, pitching their comedy talents head-to-head in a dynamic grand finale. Mike Gunn’s trade mark laconic, lugubrious dark humour is complemented perfectly by Sean’s charismatic storytelling and warm conversational style. Sean Collins is an award-winning Canadian comedian now living in the UK with numerous TV appearances to his credit. Mike Gunn escaped a misspent youth by getting into comedy and supporting the likes of Jo Brand and Alan Davies. Both have appeared on Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow, between them produced five acclaimed Edinburgh Comedy Festival shows and wowed audiences as far and wide as Montreal, Melbourne, Hong

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Kong, Saudi Arabia, the Falklands and most places in between. The final night of Evesham Comedy Festival will see the best acts from the Pauline Quirke Academy/Creative Cows youth comedy workshops battle it out in a laugh out loud comedy showcase final. Performers in 12-14 and 15-18 age groups will be put through their paces in stand-up, sketch and musical comedy, competing for laughs. Head over to Evesham for a hilarious night of comedy brought to you by the next generation of comedians. Tickets for all shows are available now from the Arts Centre’s box office at Evesham Almonry or via the Evesham Arts Centre website. Shows taking place from 23rd-25th are strictly over 16s only. www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk

www.edgemagazine.org

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A s h o p p i n g ex p e r i e n ce

where YOU CAN SIT DOWN and really enjoy yourselves! Martin and Stuart Homer welcome you to your local auction saleroom. x We take in any quality items of x We charge competitive commission General, Modern and Antique, rates and always work hard to gain weekdays from 9am to 5pm or other best prices. times by appointment. x Transport can be arranged for x Our friendly team will give free collection of goods. estimates and can arrange valuations x Hot and cold drinks and a variety of in your home. snacks also available.

NEXT AUCTIONS: 4th and 18th May and 1st June

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THE GREAT BIG ALMONRY PROJECT Evesham’s Heritage Centre renovations Tonia Collett

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he Almonry Heritage Centre, a Grade I listed building that dates back to the 14th century, stands in the medieval heart of Evesham. Now a museum housing a collection of some of the finest Anglo-Saxon grave goods ever found in Worcestershire, medieval manuscripts and a beautiful costume collection, the Almonry’s 12 rooms also include exhibitions on the Abbey, the battle of Evesham 1265 and horticulture in the area. Together they tell the story of Evesham’s development and growth over the centuries and it’s about to enter one of the most exciting phases of its life.

Almonry Project. The Almonry centre needs a lot of work, renovating the building to make it more visitor-friendly and ensuring the all artefacts are in the best conditions for preservation.

For the past twelve months, staff at the Almonry have taken an idea and been quietly working away on it; developing plans, formulating ideas, carrying out surveys and consultations. They’ve called the plans the Great Big

Conservation

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The project covers everything from the big structural stuff, to small wooden children’s toys and has three distinct aims that the Almonry team have developed following visitor consultation, structural surveys and museum sessions; conservation, interpretation and accessibility.

To ensure the Almonry stands for another 613 years, the wonderful building needs work on its fabric (not to mention the roof). It’s currently at a critical point in

www.edgemagazine.org its history and so the Almonry team must act to save it now, or lose it. On the inside, all the cases will be replaced for complete reassurance that the collection is in the best environment possible. That’s not to mention the new heating, rewiring and new lighting system. Interpretation The Almonry Museum has been asking their visitors what they think will improve the experience and they’ve had some great feedback and suggestions. Being very careful to preserve the atmosphere that so many people value, the Almonry team also need to provide new ways of engaging visitors with the history, including audio guides, interpretation boards, a new guide book and low tech hands-on activities for families. By providing these new methods, the Almonry will be helping people understand more of the heritage we all share, whilst keeping its unique character. Accessibility There is no getting away from the fact that the Almonry can be tricky to navigate through. Its twisting corridors, low doorways and uneven steps would benefit from some renovations. Its listed status means that ramps can’t simply be added to each room. Instead, the accessibility will have to be a little more creative. So, a lift in the extension will take less able-bodied visitors up to the ‘History Points’ on the upper floor where they can explore the interactive virtual tour of the Almonry in comfort. A new community room in the back garden will mean the museum can cater for schools, community groups and family history researchers and expand on our already popular craft and holiday activities in a safe place that everyone can enjoy. All these plans do need funding though and there is really only one funding source that would allow the Almonry to develop a project so far-ranging and that’s the Heritage Lottery Fund. Currently the project budget stands at £1.7 million of which, if successful, Evesham Almonry will need to match-fund 10% at the least. It’s amazing how many sources of funding there are and the Almonry will be trying as many as possible. Not to mention volunteer time, corporate and private donations and fundraising. If you think there is any way you can help the Evesham Almonry Museum reach their goal, please get in touch. www.greatbigalmonryproject.com

Abbey Gate Evesham Worcestershire WR11 4BG 01386 446 944

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Millinery Creations by Caroline

Tessa Francis Bridal Studio Designer Weekend Featuring the Spring 2013 collection of designer Wedding Gowns

NEW MILLINERY BOUTIQUE NOW OPEN ON DROITWICH HIGH STREET

Hats and Fascinators for weddings and social events Stunning handmade headwear from a professional milliner. Visit my shop to view over 300 designs, plus exquisite handbags and jewellery to accessorise your millinery item. Or arrange a one-to-one consultation for a bespoke creation. Hire service also available.

For more details: 01905 412 162 Why not treat someone special to a gift voucher? Creations by Caroline 59a High Street, Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire WR9 8EP www.creationsbycaroline.co.uk

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Tel: 01564 792883 Mob: 07931 912138 Yew Tree Farm, Stratford Road, Wotton Wawen

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

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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

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www.edgemagazine.org

GET CRAFTY

Evesham Country Park Spring Craft and Gift Fair

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oin us for our first Spring Craft and Gift Fair at Evesham Country Park, located just a 5 minute drive from Evesham town centre. The fair will be open from 10am – 5pm on both Saturday the 11th and Sunday 12th of May. With an array of exhibitors showcasing a range of wares from jewellery and jigsaws to handbags and knits; woodcraft and paintings to photos and cards; soaps and ceramics to fashions and cushions, there’ll be stalls to suit all interests and ages at the fair. Arts and crafts activities are becoming increasingly popular, with more and more people turning their much loved hobbies into businesses. Currently, refurbishing and upcycling old garments and furniture has become a money-saving method, as well as creating a new, shabby chic look fit for many homes. A large majority of the 40 exhibitors attending the fair are from the Worcestershire area, selling handmade items, lovingly created for sale. It’s not only the finished product we’ll have available, there will also be craft kits to make your own jewellery, bunting and even birthday parties so you can have a go yourself! Some exhibitors will also be demonstrating their crafts and the skill involved in making their creations. As well as discovering our spring craft fair, you’ll enjoy a great day out in a countryside setting. You can explore the garden centre and the farm shop, peruse the courtyard of shops and dine in the Evesham Country Park restaurants. Once you have finished shopping, stroll around the 130 acre estate which has some of the most picturesque scenery the Vale of Evesham has to offer, including a mile and a half of the River Avon. The Country Park has plenty of free parking and is open 7 days a week. Admission to the Craft and Gift Fair is £1 per person (under 16s free). Visit the website to download a voucher which gives you free entry into the fair. The craft fair will be held in a large marquee located on the showground. www.eveshamcountrypark.co.uk

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PERSHORE’S CULTURAL HOME Number 8 Community Arts Centre Lucinda Bunn

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The thriving venue also runs creative courses, so day or night, there’s plenty to do; from the popular Youth Theatre and weekly children’s dance classes, as well as ‘Chance to Dance’ for the over 55s. Number 8 Community Centre is led by the people of Pershore to provide arts and leisure activities for the local community. The dedicated team at Number 8 work to improve the social wellbeing of the area and so they also feature local artists’ works. Liz Huppert will be showcasing her Foxes and Flowers exhibition with its intricate stained glass panels depicting local countryside scenes. It’s perfect for the new season and open at the end of May until mid-July. 8 High Street Pershore Worcestershire WR10 1BG 01386 555488 www.number8.org

Oz the Great and Powerful

You’ll find a fun and friendly atmosphere at Number 8, with the community at its core. Number 8 is a collection of spaces, dedicated to arts and theatre, with the auditorium seating 250, the Courtyard Room for dance classes and rehearsals, the gallery and exhibition space and the coffee bar serving hot and cold drinks and wonderful locally made cakes.

Claudio Abbado

Number 8 has 3D capabilities so this month you’ll find screenings of Oz the Great and Powerful (2013), the fantastical Disney adventure starring James Franco and Michelle Williams. If your heart lies in the silver screen, then Number 8 has a treat to mark the 50th anniversary of the darkly comic drama, What ever happened to baby Jane? (1962) starring Bette Davis and Joan Crawford. With a mix of classics and new films, Number 8 rivals the big screen cinemas. When it comes to theatre and music, Number 8 has varied listings from James Graham’s energetic and critically acclaimed play, This House, Claudio Abbado conducting the Berliner Philharmoniker with excerpts from Mendelssohn’s A Midsommer Night’s Dream and Berlioz’s Symphonie Fantastique, both beamed in live via satellite.

Number 8 Community Centre - exterior

ights out don’t need to involve a pricey taxi fare home from the city. Instead, you can find a vibrant programme of events right on your doorstep, at Number 8 Community Centre in Pershore. Film buffs and music enthusiasts will squeal in excitement at the events coming up this May.

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WHAT’S ON What: Sheep Shearing Weekends Where: Hatton Country Farm When: Every weekend in May 2013

What: Oklahoma Where: The Belgrade Theatre

Haircut time! See the sheep receive their annual haircuts in Hatton's sheep shearing demonstrations every weekend in May. Plus, the usual fun packed programme includes fun fair rides, Farmyard favourites and Snorty’s indoor play.

www.belgrade.co.uk

Where: The Heritage Motor Centre When: 25th May-2nd June 2013

What: Tudor Jousting Tournament

Children of all ages can explore cars with a special Motoring, Art and Design M>A>D theme this May Half Term. From K’nex Buggy challenge and family craft days, to children’s workshops on animation and digital photography, there will be a range of motoring art and design activities to enjoy this week, alongside the May exhibition of 60 artworks from the Guild of Motoring Artists.

Where: Avoncroft Museum

www.heritage-motorcentre.co.uk

www.hattonworld.com

When: 20th-22nd June 2013 Presented by Coventry Musical Theatre Society, the award winning high spirited musical hit Oklahoma comes to the Belgrade Theatre this summer! This timeless masterpiece features some of the greatest songs in musical theatre history including Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’, Kansas City, People Will Say We’re in Love and The Farmer and the Cowman.

What: M>A>D

www.avoncroft.org.uk

What: Wildgoose Rural Training Open Day Where: Wildgoose Rural Training Centre, Top Barn Farm When: 8th June 2013

What: Rock around the sixties Where: Huntingdon Hall

www.wildgooseruraltraining.org

When: 31st May 2013 ‘Rock around the Sixties’ features the best sounds of the sixties with The New Honeycombs and Everly Brother Tribute Walk Right Back. The Honeycombs burst onto

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www.worcesterlive.co.uk

The tents are being brought out, the sausages are being made and the stories are waiting to emerge from underneath the barn! On Saturday June 8th, Wildgoose is creating a storytelling and crafts event on the farm with special tents and venues to celebrate the opening of the new barn.

When: 18th-19th May 2013 The spectacle of shining armour, flying colours, thundering hooves and splintering lances will be in evidence at the Tudor jousting tournament. Visitors will be able to tour the camps of knights, ladies and soldiers of the 16th century who followed the tournament.

the pop scene with the worldwide hit number one Have I The Right in 1964 joining The Honeycombs is Everly Brothers Tribute Walk Right Back, offering a celebration of the songs of the Everlys. All the bestknown hits are included in the show, which is sure to bring flooding back the dance party atmosphere of 60's America.

www.edgemagazine.org What: Bill Oddie and Stephen Moss Where: Royal Spa Centre, Leamington When: 2nd June 2013 What: Miss Worcestershire 2013 Final Where: Holiday Inn, Bromsgrove When: 19th May 2013 The search for Miss Worcestershire is back for 2013. Taking place at the Holiday Inn, Bromsgrove, a variety of young women will compete to be crowned Miss Worcestershire 2013. The winner will gain automatic entry into the Miss England final in June where she will compete to progress into the Miss World final in September. www.missengland.info

Bill Oddie and Stephen Moss will share memories and stories from 15 years of some of the most popular natural history series ever made, illustrated by extracts, some of which were so memorable that they ranked amongst viewers most requested clipsfrom Bill’s ludicrous attempt to swim with seals, to the breath-taking air display of a Starling roost, it’s guaranteed to be fascinating for all the family. www.warwickdc.gov.uk

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www.edgemagazine.org Cock-a-Doodle-Food!! The Flat Chicken offers a fresh alternative on dining out serving simple cuisine matched by simple prices. There’s an array of tantalising dishes to choose from which includes our speciality free-range chickens, which are lightly steamed to lock in moisture then cooked to perfection on a French rotisserie, and award-winning Aubrey Allen steaks all complemented with a choice of equally mouth-watering side dishes. Not to mention a fixed price menu* and now we’re open on Sundays - our Sunday lunch offers rotisserie chicken, stuffing, bread sauce, cauliflower cheese and seasonal vegetables all for £9.95. It’s lively, fashionable and original - everything dining out should be. Come and discover more.

TURN EATING OUT ON ITS HEAD

*Not available Friday and Saturday 5pm onwards. The Flat Chicken reserves the right to withdraw this menu without prior notice. Menu is fixed, items cannot be substituted, mixed or matched.

Open Wed - Sun NOW OPEN SUNDAYS 11am - 11pm Food served from 12noon - 9.30pm

44 GUILD STREET, STRATFORD UPON AVON CV37 6QY. TEL: 01789 415542 www.theflatchicken.com

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PUSHKAR: A REVIEW Culinary traditions, reinvented for the experimental diner Lucinda Bunn

On Birmingham’s Broad Street stands an Indian treasure box, gorgeously inlaid with gold motifs and plush white furnishings. The treasure is revealed; a profusion of Indian spices, from cardamom, saffron and fenugreek, to bay leaves, cumin and turmeric. Flavours that give us a deep feeling of indulgence aren’t always the ones you’d expect. But that’s the beauty of Indian cuisine-for sheer indulgence or simply down-to-earth flavoursome flare, Pushkar is Birmingham’s luxe Eastern palace. Nowhere in Birmingham will you find such a diverse menu, owing to Head Chef Bishal Rasaily’s knowledge of superb spices and authentic Indian recipes. Taught

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to cook in his mother’s kitchen, Bishal’s menu is bejewelled with culinary traditions, reinvented for the experimental diner. Our wonderful waiter, Pash, brought us the Pushkar Panorama, a selection of vegetarian starters. A vision of technical prowess, each appetiser was ornate and delicious in its own right. The inventive take on marinated paneer, golden fried spinach cake and tandoori bharwan mushroom dispels the myth that vegetarian dishes aren’t as exciting. And when you try the dahi puri chaa, the crispy shells of pastry, filled with a tangy mix of potatoes and chickpeas and topped with sweet yoghurt, fruity tamarind and gram flour vermicelli, you might rethink your instinct for all things meaty.

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Wherever your seafood curry allegiances lie, Pushkar have some eye-opening fish dishes. They are all worth having; the Goan fish curry, Calcutta’s delicacy sarson machi and the jinga tawa masala, cooked tawa style. We went for the grilled sea bass, on Pash’s recommendation. The pan-seared fillets in a raw mango, ginger and coconut sauce, served on a bed of spiced mash potato. It will make you want to mop the plate with Peshwari. We also tried the prawns hara masala; a powerhouse of coconutty, green-leaf flavour. Perusing the lengthy menu, the creative meat curries are mystifying, as we found out with the chicken jalfrezi. The stir fried chicken pieces, with colourful cubes of peppers and onions spiced with slit chillies, were both sour and sweet with a clean, warming heat. We ate ours with saffron rice, pulao rice and aromatic mushroom rice. The cocktail bar at Pushkar is something of a showcase in itself with its lavish, colourful bottles and tall stools. We experimented with tropical fruits, pressed purées and torn herbs. The Oswald Cooler was particularly refreshing with fresh cucumber muddled with elderflower cordial, shaken cranberry juice and served tall with bitter lemon. But if you’re going all authentic, the traditional lassi, the yoghurt based cocktail with Indian spices, is fragrant and invigorating. Time for something sweet and there’s one last hurrah in the traditional Indian kulfi. We went for mango, topped with flaked almonds. We also ordered peppermint tea and coffee. But if you have room, there’s more; garam masala brûlée, gulab jamun, exotic fried dumplings and a gajar ka halwa tart; finely grated carrots cooked with cardamom and garnished with nuts. Pushkar is eclectic and exciting, the cocktails are an unexpected delight and the food is out of this world.

245 Broad Street, Birmingham, West Midlands, B1 2HQ www.pushkardining.com TEL: 0121 643 7978

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THE LOCAL KITCHEN

Everything that's cooking in the three counties The Four Teas Take a trip back in time for tea and cake this month at The Four Teas in Stratford. The fun forties themed café is moving to bigger premises on May 16th. But don’t worry, they’re only moving to 24 Sheep Street so they’ll only be closed for two days between. The new café will seat visitors downstairs and upstairs with a long garden, ready and waiting for summer sipping al fresco. And get this, the new Four Teas café has a real Anderson shelter out back too. If you haven’t been to The Four Teas before, you’re in for a forties treat. www.thefourteas.co.uk

Michelin star chef makes city home Birmingham welcomed its newest Michelin-starred chef with the arrival of Adam’s Restaurant last month, bolstering the city’s reputation as a world-class dining destination. Adam Stokes, who earned a Michelin Star and 4AA Rosettes in 2011, will be the latest culinary star to join the city’s growing list of coveted chefs flying the flag for Birmingham on the international stage. The eponymously named fine dining restaurant – a 24-seat venue located on Bennett’s Hill – will serve an innovative menu of modern British food with dishes such as pig’s trotter, bacon jam and smoked eel set to entice foodies. At Adam’s, diners can enjoy a creative menu that gives a flavour of Stokes’ signature style. www.adamsrestaurant.co.uk

Children’s Creative Cupcakes at Evesham Country Park 25th May – 2nd June Let the kids get creative this half term with the cupcake decorating workshops at Evesham Country Park. From 11am – 4pm daily, your kids can choose from a selection of icings and toppings to decorate 4 individual cupcakes with their own design. Then the kids can design their own label too. Whether you prefer chocolate or lemon, there’ll be flavours to suit all tastes! Tickets cost just £3.50 per child which includes 4 cupcakes and decorations, a label and squash. The event will be located within a marquee in the Evesham Country Park courtyard and booking in advance is not necessary. www.eveshamcountrypark.co.uk

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The Bread Collection If you haven’t been to the artisan bakery, The Bread Collection, in Knowle then you really must. They produce the finest baked artisan goods using traditional methods. You’ll find classic loaves and speciality breads, not to mention the selection of world-class cakes and pastries. All products at The Bread Collection are made from the finest ingredients, with the expertise of the pastry chef, trained at one of the most prestigious schools in France. The selection of hand produced breads range from rosemary, raisin and sea salt to wholemeal and granary. Pastries include croissants, pain au chocolat/ raisin, almond, cinnamon and pecan, brioche and cheese straws all made with French unsalted butter. In addition we also bake savoury and sweet tarts. Why not enjoy your pastries and savouries with freshly brewed tea and coffee in the coffee shop? Homemade light lunches are also available together with take away sandwiches. The Bread Collection were listed in The Times’ Top 10 small bakeries in Britain, proving that popping out for bread will never be quite the same again. www.breadcollection.co.uk 1701High Street,Knowle,Solihull B93 OLN Telephone: 01564 772124 Fax: 01564776774

Veg Out with Anna Rose Meet Anna Rose. Blogger and vegetarian of 22 years, Anna brings you fun and fresh vegetarian cooking ideas on her blog Word in Veg Ways. Gnocchi and Samphire Stir-Fry (Serves 1) Gnocchi (as much as desired) 1 ramiro pepper 4 mushrooms Handful of samphire Lemon juice and ground black pepper Optional: few cubes of Blue Shropshire Cheese

Method: Cook gnocchi as per packet instructions. Fry the ramiro pepper, mushrooms and samphire. When the gnocchi are cooked, drain and add to the frying pan. Stir-fry all ingredients together and add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a grinding of black pepper. Do not add any salt to the dish, as the samphire naturally contains a high level of salt which will season the dish. Add some cubes of Blue Shropshire cheese to serve. www.wordinvegways.blogspot.co.uk

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BORDEAUX UNCORKED

Escape to the wine country Laura Clay

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t last, an airline which caters for the wine lover Monarch will be flying from Birmingham directly to Bordeaux from May. This is probably not earthshattering news to many of you but for this particular wine writer (who happens to be a Bordeaux specialist) it means a very great deal. No more stressful drives on traffic-jammed motorways to Bristol, Luton or Gatwick. Instead, you can take a short taxi ride to our own lovely, friendly BHX and within a couple of hours, touchdown in the world’s wine industry capital. Bordeaux is all about vineyards and châteaux in the Médoc, the Left Bank of the Gironde Estuary. Rows and rows of perfectly managed and manicured vines of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes, interspersed with stunning chateaux. The sleepy, well-kept villages and views over the estuary, top hotels and restaurants such as Cordeillan-Bages (www.cordeillanbages.com) in Pauillac, as well as great value French cuisine in places like Le Savoie (www.lesavoie.net) in beautiful Margaux, make

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people visit time and again. Hop over to St. Emilion on the Right Bank, about an hour away by car and you are rewarded with the quaint, historic town itself (a UNESCO heritage site) for more red wine vineyards and a very different style of wine. A Médoc wine is blackcurranty, firm-structured and tannic, whereas a St. Emilion or Pomerol has more plum-like lush fruitiness, softer tannins and a smoother texture. Both areas produce world-class, sought-after and, sadly, very expensive wines. But Bordeaux isn’t all famous names and stratospheric prices. Most, in fact, are affordable reds, food-friendly and which drink younger than the top names. There are delicious whites and rosés too. The whites may be delicately zesty 100% Sauvignon Blancs or Sauvignon blended with Semillon and oak-aged, making them serious and complex. This same blend produces the unctuously sweet wines of Sauternes which are marmalady, honeyed and exquisite. The rosés are mostly pale, dry, fruity and refreshing. To find affordable

www.edgemagazine.org Bordeaux wines from where you shop in the UK go to www.bordeaux.com/uk/wines/selection. If your curiosity goes beyond the vinous pleasures the area offers, you won’t be disappointed. There’s golfcourses, cookery schools, cycling and horse-riding. The beaches of the Bassin d’Arcachon are a short drive away and include Pylat, the largest sand dune in Europe. If you are into French celebrity spotting, (and who isn’t?), head out to Cap Ferret. Over a plate of mussels, washed down with a chilled Bordeaux Blanc, you could do worse than while away a pleasant few hours beside the sea, taking in the views and ogling the rich and famous sunseekers.

Radio 2 DJ Chris Evans, having recently returned from a visit to Bordeaux, was full of praise for the city, said ‘I beg you, if you like wine, take a plane and go to Bordeaux. It’s a dream trip’. Take his advice and follow in his footsteps. BYWine is going to Bordeaux 2nd – 5th October flying from Birmingham with Monarch. Hooray! Why not join us? www.bywine.co.uk/events/4-day-visit-to-bordeaux

You can stay in a fairytale chateau or a working winery amongst the vines (www.bauduc.com). You could attend classes at the École du Vin (www.bordeaux.com) and make day trips into the wine areas from Bordeaux, booked through the tourist office or taste at the Bar à Vin. If you need to de-stress, there are beautiful spas. Les Sources de Caudalie (www.sources-caudalie.com) may not offer you a glass of wine to drink but the products they use are based on the benefits of the grape and grapevine. You may fancy a bit of Vinotherapie® in the afternoon and then stay on to eat in the top restaurant, La Grand’Vigne, before staying in the very comfortable rooms of the hotel – wined, inside and out, dined and ready for that early morning swim and breakfast in the garden, a stone’s throw from the vineyard.

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EdgeMagazine

PICK OF THE MONTH Our choice of places to visit in May The Bell at Tanworth in Arden The Bell Inn is a modern, stylish pub boasting a recently refurbished interior reflecting the new country feel. Situated in the quintessentially English village of Tanworth in Arden, the village green opposite is ideal for al fresco dining this summer. There’s a superb range of world wines, beers and local ales, whilst the menus offer something for everyone; from light bites and sandwiches at £6.95 and pub classics like ale battered fish and chips or poached egg on bubble and squeak with back bacon and hollandaise, to more modern creations

Fabulous Food on the Fosse ... Nestling in a village backwater just off the Fosse Way near Leamington Spa lies The Stag at Offchurch, a traditional country ‘chocolate box’ thatched pub and restaurant, serving extraordinary good food and drink with first class service. Apart from its idyllic location, The Stag’s continuing success and popularity centres on its affordable AngloFrench cuisine. High quality, locally sourced produce is the order of the day and all food is freshly prepared with a touch of creative genius by executive chef Nigel Brown, a protégé of Raymond Blanc. Its reputation for outstanding food has also been recognised nationally, winning Best Food Pub of the Year Award and gaining entry into the Michelin Eating Out in Pubs Guide.

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like Moroccan marinated chicken breast with fatouche salad and Arabic couscous. As the summer months draw in, more fresh fish dishes are featured on the menu, delivered daily by their fishmonger in Brixham. The Bell Inn is featured in many guides as one of the top pubs to eat and drink in the UK and don’t forget it has 9 hotel rooms, 4 of which have stunning views of the church and village green opposite, truly a memorable spot to discover this summer. www.thebellattanworthinarden.co.uk

The Stag’s menus are both tempting and imaginative with individual starters and sharing plates and the generous sized mains offer something for every discerning palate. In addition to its succulent 28 day dry-aged steaks, diners will be wowed by a selection of tender Cornish spring lamb, free range pork and chicken dishes. There are also tempting vegetarian alternatives and delights from the sea, including an extensive range of fish dishes and a daily catch of the day. The Stag at Offchurch, Welsh road, Leamington spa, Warwickshire CV33 9AQ 01926 425801

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The George at Shipston-on-Stour Shipston-on-Stour is the quintessential Cotswold town; as historic as it is undeniably pretty. And right on the high street is The George. As a hotel, restaurant and bar, The George has a lot to offer. But with its rustic, contemporary menu and quirky décor, The George sets itself apart from the surge of gourmet restaurants and gastro-pubs that seem to pop up in the three counties on a weekly basis. At The George, you’ll find finesse in the menu’s simple dishes; taken to a new level with contemporary flourishes and experimentary flavour combinations. Starters include braised pig cheek and cider terrine, fig and apple chutney and charred belinis, Brixham crab croquettes, parsley

mayonnaise, crisp curl barley and mango. The variety is impressive, with a fresh, healthy mix of meat and fish. Go for pan roasted corn-fed chicken , artichokes, purple sprouting broccoli, polenta cake and Madeira jus or even the fillet of coastal Pollock, mussel and saffron chowder, spring greens and truffle pomme purée. If you’re looking for beautiful rooms, delicious food and a stay in a charming Cotswold hotel, then The George at Shipston-on-Stour is the perfect retreat. The George Hotel High Street Shipston-on-Stour Warwickshire CV36 4AJ

01608 661453 www.georgehotelshipston.com

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The Bell at Tanworth in Arden

Summer at The Bell

Join us at the newly refurbished Bell Inn. The new summer menu at The Bell is fresh and unique, showcasing the best of British and some exciting Eastern and Mediterranean flavours. Why not join us this summer and enjoy alfresco dining whilst soaking up the summer sun in our delightful village?

Enjoy spring and summer with us. Book now on 01564 742212 or email: thebell@realcoolbars.com Find us on Facebook www.thebellattanworthinarden.co.uk

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16/11/2012 14:24

EdgeMagazine

KSH FLOORING Indoor appeal Lucinda Bunn

K

SH Flooring has been creating design solutions for 35 years. And with the warmer months of remodelling and redecorating approaching, they have a new partnership with Farrow and Ball that’s certain to give you some fresh ideas. If you need a change under foot, your boards are looking tired and your carpet doesn’t quite complement your colour way, then you’ll find the leading manufacturers in flooring and carpets at KSH Flooring. There’s Amtico, who have brought all the production back to Coventry and Karndean; the modern answer to vinyl flooring. All of the Brockway carpets feature the revolutionary Envirobac system. Using less latex, the Envirobac carpets are easy to transport and fit and the manufacturing process is completely free of effluent and harmful emissions. KSH Flooring has a bespoke range too. You can choose a colour from the chart and they’ll either wax the boards for you or you can opt for a distressed finish that might work better with a rustic aesthetic. The family run flooring company offer a full measuring service, no obligation quotations and insurance work too. Flooring can be a big decision; the style choices are bewildering and even for the savvy-buyer, expert advice makes a big difference. KSH Flooring is there to guide you. One of the easiest and fastest ways to freshen a room is to change the window treatments. The entire mood of the room can be transformed with a quality blind that complements your flooring and décor. Choose from metal or wood venetian, roman and roller at KSH Flooring and they’ll measure up and fit it for you. The new range of Vision Blinds is also available with illusion fabric that looks like wood; filtering the sun’s gaze with a simple, modern design, perfect for a contemporary home. Farrow and Ball have recently teamed up with KSH, so you’ll find the full range of unmatchable paints and handcrafted wallpaper at the shop. You may have heard the phrase ‘paint is paint’ but anyone who has used Farrow and Ball knows that’s not true. Their original formulations and production techniques produce rich depth of colour and a unique texture. As your local suppliers of Farrow and Ball paint, KSH Flooring is embracing the art of colour to help you make the right moves in interior design. 18 Worcester Road Bromsgrove B61 7AE 01527 880778

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www.kshflooring.co.uk

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Special Opening Offers On Selected Villeroy & Boch Products 10% off all V&B bathrooms and tile orders when producing this advert with the order, valid until July 2013 Monarch Bathrooms & Tiles are pleased to announce that our brand new Villeroy & Boch showroom is now complete and ready for viewing. We are showing all the latest products on display and with special opening offers, there’s never been a better time to start your new bathroom project.

Unit 6, Washford Trade Park, Opening hours: Mon/ Wed/ Park Farm Ind. Estate, Redditch, Fri 8:30 - 5:00, Tue 8:30 - 1:00, Worcestershire B98 0HX Thurs - Closed, Sat 9:00 - 5:00,

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EdgeMagazine

ESCAPE THE CHAINS Freak Le Chic and Freak Le Shabby Chic Lucinda Bunn

T

hese stylish twin boutiques have a simple premise: offering classic and contemporary interior pieces to accent your home. You’ll find Freak Le Chic in a quiet courtyard, a side step from Knowle High Street and Freak Le Shabby Chic, its French-inspired sister store only a two minute walk away. Lesley Kent and her team handpick the pieces in each of the two shops, both with their own creative identities. That’s not to say you won’t find something you like in both. Freak Le Chic showcases an eclectic mix of interior pieces from two different companies which are also housed in the Ralph Lauren boutique in New York. There’s also modern lamps, light fixtures and tableware. The avant-garde armchair you’ll find at Freak Le Chic is designed and made in Birmingham using British fabrics; this chair makes a statement with its colourful stripes and contrasting textures; inspiration for a luxe home. Lesley’s created an interior design experience in an intimate setting; she makes coffee while you explore the shop, wooed by the aromas of the Max Benjamin diffuser sticks. The Scottish deer antlers on the wall are ethically Freak Le Chic, Greville Court, 1665 High Street, Knowle, Solihull, B93 0LL Freak Le Shabby Chic, 1683 High Street, Knowle, Solihull, B93 0LY www.freaklechic.co.uk 01564 779999

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obtained and simply exquisite. Their majestic presence punctuates the elegant, timeless style Freak Le Chic has to offer. Freak Le Shabby Chic invites you on an adventure from Provence to New England. From the rustic furnishings to the romantic accessories and gifts, there’s beauty for every budget. Step inside Freak Le Shabby Chic and find yourself immersed in floral decor, painted ceramics and vintage bookends. Perhaps it’s the layout of the boutique or just the ‘vintage effect’ but Freak Le Shabby Chic will inspire you to create a bohemian modern home. Freak Le Shabby Chic is great for gifts too, with unique, charming pieces you won’t find in the superstores. To really experience Lesley’s interior journey, it's best to visit both boutiques in Knowle. And now’s the time to go. Lesley has an exciting venture coming up, where she will be launching a local artist Amanda Rees’ work, exclusively at her Freak Le Chic shop. The big reveal’s coming up next month, with intricate pencil sketches of architectural monuments from around the world. Pick out gifts, make a statement and find inspiration at Freak Le Chic.

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THE PLAGUE: A REVIEW A novel by Albert Camus Mike Stafford

D

epending on how you define the word, Albert Camus may well have been the coolest man who ever lived. The Frenchman died in 1960, killed in a car accident, leaving behind moody black and white images of himself, cigarette permanently resting on his lip, the ideal complement to his smoldering existential angst. His body of work spans novels, plays, philosophy and short stories, thrashing out the complexities of the human condition. In The Plague, Camus wrestles with matters such as heroism, exile, separation, death and religion. The book’s events take place in Algeria, in the town of Oran. The disaster is heralded by the appearance of a few dead rats in the apartment building inhabited by Dr Rieux, one of the book’s heroes. Soon, the rats explode in number, and ultimately give rise to an outbreak of the bubonic plague. Quarantined for the safety of the wider world, the people of Oran respond in diverse but equally human ways. Oran is an unremarkable place, and intentionally so. It is banal, representing any town on earth. When tragedy strikes, the implication is clear – it could be you. There is something dishonest though, about the backgrounds of the characters. Although set in an Arabic country, not a single Arab appears; for Camus’ purposes, Oran is a small corner of France. In fairness to the author, this may have been a tactical decision – it would be harder to see the good in his characters if they were an oppressive colonial force.

Principal among these characters are Dr Rieux, the medic who heads the group of volunteers who set about fighting the plague; Raymond Rambert, a journalist trapped inside the town once a state of quarantine is declared; Joseph Grand, an awkward bureaucrat but courageous volunteer and Father Paneloux, a fire-andbrimstone Jesuit priest. In the absence of any real leadership from the town’s authorities, Dr Rieux and the volunteers set about combatting the plague themselves. Their efforts are partly allegorical to the work of the French Resistance movement in fighting the occupying forces during WWII (The Plague was finished shortly after the end of the war) but unlike the Resistance, their efforts ultimately have limited impact. This is one of the key themes of Camus’ work – in the final analysis, there is no real victory in the battle between life and death, only postponement. Nevertheless, the men of the volunteers press on, showing the reader what courage really is. In fiction and in film, heroism is often seen as valour, an unattainable, fearless gallantry. In The Plague the heroism of Dr Rieux and Joseph Grand is an altogether simpler matter. They fight the plague because it is the right thing to do. They have their basic decency and compassion and this sustains them; this isn’t swagger, but stoicism. The Plague is particularly strong when Camus discusses separation. Separated from his own mother and wife by the occupation of southern France, the author knew that particular agony only too well. He has Rambert so desperate to see his lover again that he attempts to escape the quarantine zone, despite the risk it brings. Camus’ own pain is expressed with stark clarity throughout: 'This abrupt separation, without any halfway state and with no predictable future, left us disconcerted, unable to react against the memory of that presence, still so close, yet already so far away, that now filled our days. In reality, we suffered doubly; from our own suffering first and then from what we imagined to be that of the absent loved one'. The Plague is a compassionate and remarkably optimistic book. Although the subject matter is bleak, sometimes disturbing, the underlying message is one of hope, of an understanding of humanity’s capacity for decency. People are frail flawed and ultimately doomed – but despite this can still find solidarity and strength.

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FOUR WHEEL LIFE The all-new Range Rover Liam Bird

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spot of late afternoon telly watching is nothing new for most of us, some of us these days even get a massaging seat; it’s hardly worthy of note. However, when both the television screen and the seat in which you’ve been sat watching it in – which incidentally just happens to be heated as well – are high on a hillside in Herefordshire, far away from any other obvious signs of modern day civilisation, it tends to make the whole experience decidedly more memorable. I’ve just spent the day driving the all-new Range Rover. Not only has it carried me in almost silent, air-conditioned, leather- lined and walnut-clad luxury, from my starting point in Chipping Campden to this, Land Rover’s ultimate off-road playground at Eastnor Castle, it’s waded through waist deep water and made a mockery of mud. The fact that between us, both the car and I, have arrived at this most rural of locations as unfazed and as relaxed as we were when we started out this morning goes just some way to prove how utterly remarkable the 4th Generation (the L405 to those-in-the-know) Range Rover really is. But, before it’s time to plunge yet further in to Eastnor’s forests we’ve stopped for a breather, some apple juice (this is Herefordshire after-all) and an attempt at today’s Countdown Conundrum. Launched originally in 1970 the Range Rover has come a long way since its humble four-speed gearbox and hose-down interior beginnings. Land Rover’s sales staff soon realised that a more affluent clientele was attracted to what was originally conceived as a working vehicle that could also carry the family. There’s no illusion, the Range Rover is first and foremost a luxury vehicle. Its sumptuous interior feels altogether less cluttered than that of the model it replaces, thanks to far fewer buttons making it an altogether more calming place to be. The large glass area (70% of customers have ordered their cars with what is the world’s largest optional panoramic sunroof) accentuates the centre console’s grained veneers and thanks a seating position that’s 90mm higher than any other SUV on the market, soft close doors and a 1700W 29 speaker hi-fi. It’s hard not to agree with Land Rover’s interior designers that this cabin offers ‘imperious sanctuary’.

But by far the most impressive developments are the ones you can’t see: the new Range Rover is now an all-aluminium SUV, another world first. It’s a whopping 420kg lighter than its predecessor, and safer, stronger, and more aerodynamic to boot. Not only does that mean better fuel economy but less mass inevitably means less CO2, plus better handling too. Factor in an eight-speed gearbox with imperceptible changes and in the case of the SDV8 339bhp and 515lbft of torque, and not only do you have the capability to tow 3.5 tonnes but, should you wish, also enough oomph to charge forward like a bull elephant with a bee up its backside; 0-62 takes a mere 6.5 seconds. Despite its size, albeit still shorter than BMW’s 7 series, the new Range Rover has an agility that could embarrass many an executive saloon. And yet with the low ratio’s selected you can creep forward, at barely a snail’s pace, over the kind terrain that no other luxury car costing the best part of £100k will ever encounter, whilst all the while watching how much differential lock the automatic Terrain Response System is applying, how much steering lock you’re applying and how much suspension travel is being applied by mother nature, all on the very same screen you watched the news on moments earlier. The Range Rover has always claimed to be ‘the world’s most versatile vehicle’ and it’s difficult not to agree. Right now, if they claimed it was the one of the world’s best vehicles I’d probably agree with them too.

Range Rover TDV8 Autobiography Engine: 4367, V8, Turbo-diesel Power: 339 BHP @ 3500rpm Torque: 515lbft @ 1700 – 3000 rpm Transmission: 8 speed automatic. Four Wheel Drive. Performance: 0-62mph 6.5 sec Max Speed: 135 mph MPG: 32.5 Combined. CO2:229g/km Price: £94,695

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EDGE FORWARD The power of networking Sophie Overend

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irmingham based design agency EDGE Creative are great believers in providing new opportunities to their clients, not only through targeted and effective marketing but also through making active introductions and hosting some of the most talked about networking events in the area. Mark Panayides from EDGE Creative is a key connector and pointedly understands the values of a good networking event. He now regularly runs his own elite events, bringing professionals together from industries all over the UK. EDGE Forward events are held every month in Birmingham and Solihull. The events are one of the many benefits EDGE offer to their clients and are completely free of charge. The groups always consist of 20-25 handpicked senior directors/decision makers from within each business. No single profession is duplicated, therefore providing a varied cross section of industries and professions at each session. Historically, the events have played host to some of the most reputable brands in the Midlands including KPMG, Barclays, Handelsbanken, Barnardos, Quantum Underwriting, Quilters and Ernst and Young. We sat down with Mark to find out more about how he has come to run his own events and what it means to be an effective networker.

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What would be your top 3 tips for being a savvy networker? My top three tips, that I am a great believer in, would be: firstly, be genuinely interested in people. Secondly, try and give something first. But most importantly, do what you say you will do; it’s all about building trust and delivering on promises. Why did you decide to begin running your own events? I’ve always enjoyed networking as an integral part of my business and through my experience I decided that I wanted to be the driving force to get people from varying industries together and ultimately enhance their businesses. By running my own events, I can make sure I have the right people networking together. 'The opportunity to meet people and the exposure to different types of businesses makes it genuinely unique'. Mark Scotter – Director, Friend LLP 'I have never failed to make useful contacts or generate leads for my business. They are well organised, taking just a small amount of time out of my busy schedule and always productive'. Stuart Craig – Director, Vantage Insurance If you would like to find out more about how you can become part of EDGE Forward please contact either Sophie or Rebecca on 0121 355 8092 or email sophie@edgecreativesolutions.com or rebecca@ edgecreativesolutions.com

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The kitchen is the heart of every home A place to meet and eat, to get relaxed and get creative. Neff have done every thing they can to build an extensive range of quality kitchen appliances for you. Neff Appliances make life in the kitchen a daily pleasure; anticipate all your needs and desires; marry innovation and design, style and versatility. At Macphersons we understand the need to combine high quality with great design, you will find the perfect partner in your Neff appliance.

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EdgeMagazine

EMERGING MARKETS From the Far East Tom Ware

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ast year seemed to be a year that was dominated by the situation in China and the implications this would have for the Asian region and on the bigger stage of global growth as a whole. As the world’s fastest growing economy over the last decade, China has rightly been seen as the engine of the Asian growth story. Over the past 12 months there has been increased understanding of the economic headwinds facing China as it transitions from an investment led growth economy to one driven by consumption. This transition has coincided with a period of weak economic global growth, meaning that demand from traditional markets for China’s exports - the US and Europe – have suffered dramatically. These factors combined have prompted the Chinese authorities to lower their growth targets for the economy to 7.5% from 8% and, indeed, indicators including corporate profitability, manufacturing indices and import and export data have weakened. Assuming that the authorities resist the temptation of the quick fix of re-stimulating property and infrastructure projects, reported economic growth should settle into a range of 6.5% to 7.5% over the next few years. That would not be a disaster given that the workforce is close to peaking, although as the economy develops further and moves away from public towards a world of private enterprise, we may well see the shedding of unproductive

human capital. It is important to remember that although the biggest, China is not the only economy in the region and others have also begun to prosper. Following the global financial crisis and for the first time since the Asian crisis of 1997, economies such as Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines and Indonesia have been driven by increased fixed investment spending. This has been facilitated by a well functioning banking system and is reflected in the credit growth numbers which have risen strongly. This is significant as it was getting to the stage where a number of the economies had neither the investment in infrastructure, nor the economy to support their growing population. Elsewhere in the region, Australia is considered attractive as so many of the companies based there have a good understanding of capital management. This, linked with the mature banking system and the fact that the government can still be considered a true triple A credit, add up to an attractive investment package for international investors.

Churchill Investments 01934 844444 info@churchillinvestment.co.uk www.churchill.uk.net

IMPORTANT NOTICE Past performance is not necessarily a guide to the future and the value of investments can go down as well as up. You might not get back the full amount invested particularly if an encashment is made in the early years.

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WRITING A WILL THE RIGHT WAY

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Will is important no matter what age you are. Having a Will is not just about who inherits your money, it is also about protection for your family and about you making the decisions as to what happens when you die, so it’s better being prepared than leaving it to chance.

Tina concludes, 'Wills are documents with very specific requirements to make them valid and if they are not written correctly, they may not have the desired effect. I would therefore recommend anyone, especially if their circumstances are at all unusual, to consider instructing a firm with the relevant expertise when drafting their Will'.

Whether you are married, have your own property, are getting divorced, have children or live with your partner, a Will ensures that your personal assets pass to the people you care about and want to protect.

If you would like to find out more about Will writing or to book an appointment, then please call Thomas Horton LLP on 01527 871641 or visit www. thomashorton.co.uk. Thomas Horton LLP’s team has specialist knowledge and includes members of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) and Solicitors for the Elderly (SFE).

Tina Circus, Head of Wills, Trusts and Probate, comments, 'life does not always work out how you expect and when you face personal loss, it helps families deal with the situation if provision has been made for them. In the case of children, sorting out who will act as guardians is so important and knowing that a Will is in place can give many people peace of mind that they are following someone’s wishes'. A Will is important when: • You want to ensure your money goes to who you want, rather than the state deciding where it goes • You live with someone • You have young children so you can specify who will be responsible for them and provide for them financially • You are single • You want to protect beneficiaries who are too young or vulnerable to receive money before a certain age • You want to protect assets for the next generation • You want to donate money to your favoured charity • You want to ensure your pets are looked after

Tina Circus, Head of Wills, Trusts and Probate. Thomas Horton LLP

• You are about to marry or enter into a civil partnership • You are about to become or are recently divorced • You are soon to dissolve a civil partnership • You own your own business

Please note: * A simple Will assumes that no detailed advice on inheritance tax or other planning is required and instructions are taken at our offices. Our decision is final in this regard.

During the month of May, Thomas Horton LLP will be working with Primrose Hospice to raise money for this worthwhile charity. A simple single Will* will cost only £95 + VAT or couple’s Will* will be £175 + VAT and a proportion of all money raised will be donated to the hospice. Thomas Horton has also recently registered with the Free Wills Network and are registered panel members which supports 22 different national charities nationwide.

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THE PRINCE’S TRUST Inspiring young lives Hannah Griffiths

I

n 1976, after completing his duty in the Royal Navy, His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales became dedicated to improving the lives of disadvantaged young people in the UK and in order to deliver on his commitment he began The Prince’s Trust. The Prince’s Trust has since become the UK’s leading youth charity, offering a range of opportunities including training, personal development, business start-up support, mentoring and advice. Around one in five young people in the UK are not in work, education or training. The Prince’s Trust addresses these statistics by giving practical and financial support to the young people who need it most, developing key skills, confidence and motivation. Three in four young people supported by The Trust move into work, education or training. The Trust run a number of programmes to help disadvantaged young people get their lives on track helping them to build a life that they’ve chosen rather than the one they’ve ended up with. In order to continue their vital work, The Prince’s Trust needs to raise £1 million a week. The youth charity is continually fundraising in numerous ways. Since the first fundraising concert took place in 1982 raising £72,000, The Trust’s events have gone from strength to strength. In 1996 The Trust held the first rock concert in Hyde Park for over 20 years, marking the start of a long-term strategy to establish a link between The Trust and young people’s passions-music, fashion and sport. Thirty seven years on and The Trust has helped more than 700,000 young people and supports 100 more each day. Worcestershire is home to one of the charity’s development committees – a group of business leaders who have helped organise a huge array of fundraising events over several years. These include the annual Question of Sport night, golf days, fishing competitions, clay pigeon shooting and even bringing Bond to Worcester last year for the premiere of Skyfall (2012). This year the committee, which is led by county businesswoman and HotelShop UK owner Viv Hudson-Findlay, are again holding a selection of events through which they hope to tempt as many businesses and individuals as possible to take part and raise money. The first up for this year’s showcase events is an evening of mystery and intrigue at Droitwich’s Chateau Impney which takes place on Friday 5th July. The event, named

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‘00 Experience – House of Cards’ is something completely different for The Trust. Co-organised by renowned events firm More is More, the high energy event will feature over 100 actors and actresses who, around dining guests, will play out a murder mystery plot amidst an underground world of spies, gangsters and corruption. Chairwoman Viv Hudson-Findlay, says, ‘as a committee we organise some fantastic events which seem to be really popular with the county’s business community. We have an array of talent within the committee which helps enormously when it comes to fundraising’. Guests will be treated like kings and queens at the red carpet event which will include a champagne reception, casino tables, auction and dancing through to 2am with Chateau Impney’s stunning ballroom. Tickets are £65 and there is also an opportunity for businesses to take tables of ten for £1,800. Those interested in attending should call the ticket hotline on 01905 792806. All money raised will go to The Prince’s Trust. www.princes-trust.org.uk

Prince’s Trust Programmes The Enterprise programme provides money and support to help young people start up in business. The Team programme is a 12-week personal development course, offering work experience, qualifications, practical skills, community projects and a residential week. Get Intos are short courses offering intensive training and experience in a specific sector to help young people get a job. Get Started are short courses run by professional tutors in sport, music and creative arts. XL clubs give 13-19 year olds who are at risk of truanting, exclusion and underachievement a say in their education. They aim to improve attendance, motivation and social skills.

www.edgemagazine.org

Viv Hudson-Findlay with James Bond lookalike

Tony Hirst (actor), Vicky Gomersall (Sky Sports presenter) and James Bond lookalike

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ANOTHER GOLDEN YEAR AT HALLFIELD

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This year's 11+ results have again been outstanding

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Association of Prep Schools) National Chess Tournament WKH VXFFHVVHV DW +DOOILHOG DUH PDQ\ DQG YDULHG at+RZHYHU Aldro School, Surrey. Twelve teams reached the final RIWHQ H[WHQGLQJ EH\RQG WKH FODVVURRP /DVW PRQWK WKH 8 and Hallfield were again crowned as National U11 Chess &KHVV WHDP - WRRN SDUW LQ WKH in,$36 $VVRFLDWLRQ Champions the third time four ,QFRUSRUDWHG years!

...confirming Hallfield School in Edgbaston as the leading academic Preparatory School in the Midlands. 7KLV \HDU V UHVXOWV KDYH DJDLQ EHHQ RXWVWDQGLQJ

A total of 27 scholarships have been awarded (so far) to children progressing to selective independent DFDGHPLF 3UHSDUDWRU\ 6FKRRO LQ WKH 0LGODQGV schools - (in alphabetical order) Bromsgrove, EHS, KES, KEHS, King's Worcester, Priory, Solihull and St. George’s $ WRWDO RI 6FKRODUVKLSV KDYH EHHQ DZDUGHG VR IDU WR FKLO this September. Additionally, 32 Year 6 pupils have GUHQ WR gaining VHOHFWLYH LQGHSHQGHQW VFKRROV LQ DO beenSURJUHVVLQJ successful in places to the highly selective Grammar Schools the Birmingham area. .(+6 .LQJ V SKDEHWLFDO RUGHU in %URPVJURYH (+6 .(6

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An individual approach to education

St George’s School

Edgbaston

Give your child the very best start in life with an education at St George’s School, in Edgbaston. A fully co-educational independent day school and nursery, offering a caring and friendly community for children from 4 months of age to18 years.

Small classes with a creative and constructive learning ethos Outstanding support for children with dyslexia

www.edgemagazine.org

A LESSON IN CONFIDENCE Reflections of Headmaster Sir Robert Dowling

I

have just left a meeting with Year 10 and Year 11 students. I had called the two year groups together to congratulate them on superb results in their GCSE mathematics. The grades were excellent in terms of quality and quantity, in excess of 90% gained very high grades. Other GCSE examinations are looming and years 10, 11 and the sixth form seem to have just discovered that there is something in the old saying ‘as you sow, so shall you reap’. We provided revision classes over Easter which were not just about last minute cramming as our students are well prepared to handle this section of their educational journey. Of even greater importance is that they are not beginning to doubt themselves. We help ensure that they accept and believe that they are ready and their years of preparation will pay off. I regularly remind our students of how good they are and that they are entitled to succeed. I remind them of our year on year superb results and wonder why anybody should feel they are less worthy than their pals of last year.

Speech therapy available within the school 11+ tuition Extensive extra-curricular and enrichment activities Wide choice of GCSE and A-level subjects Excellent exam results

REGISTER NOW FOR SEPTEMBER 2013 ENTRY

Today I told them about my earlier visit to our nursery where all the children, from the babies to the three year olds, were full of joy and contentment. The beautiful little ones are so sure of their world and I sometimes wonder what society does to change them from joyous inquisitive people to developing worriers. I believe a large part of our job is to teach our family of students that each of them has unique talents and they can use those talents to have a good and satisfying life. At St George’s we strive to show children how to write the plot and story of their own life, to take personal responsibility but to do so with confidence.

WHOLE SCHOOL OPEN AFTERNOON Tuesday 25th June 1.30pm - 3.30pm

Tel: 0121 625 0398 31, Calthorpe Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 1RX Email: admissions@sgse.co.uk

www.sgse.co.uk

Inquisitive little ones in the nursery are full of joy and contentment

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Margo Harrison / Shutterstock.com

EQUESTRIAN EXCELLENCE Feckenham Horse Show returns for 2013 Hannah Griffiths

F

or over 70 years the Feckenham Horse Show has been a key event on the village calendar, producing local competition for riders of all ages and abilities. Organised entirely by local volunteers the event draws many spectators from far and wide, who come together each June in their love for equestrian sport. The horse show takes place during the last Saturday of the month and riders are invited to participate in a number of events including jumping, showing, hunter and working hunter pony classes. The Feckenham Horse show celebrates friendly, competitive sport and the organising committee continually endeavours to put together a fun-filled day out for all those attending to enjoy. Accompanying the events will be a number of trade and refreshment stands on the field as well as a membership and sponsors’ marquee, where the chairman and the committee will welcome judges, stewards and helpers to enjoy lunch and drinks. The committee are also proud to welcome local MP Karen Lumley to support the event and cheer on local

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competition. Throughout the day silver trophies will be awarded to winners in various competitions as well as rosettes handed to 1st to 4th place riders. The parade of hounds will be one of the main features of the day; it’s a popular attraction as well as the annual Terrier racing. The day’s events will be staged on a field kindly donated by local farmer Andrew Baldwin. With access from Flying Horse Lane and 25 acres of land available, the site is ideal for hosting this village occasion. As well as showcasing great entertainment and local talent, Feckenham Horse Show supports local and national causes with a portion of the profits being donated to various charities. So head to the Feckenham Horse Show this June and celebrate sport, local history and community spirit. Flying Horse Lane Bradley Green Redditch Worcestershire B96 6QP

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7KH *ROI &HQWUH

25 January – 7 July 2013

7KH *ROI &HQWUH VSHFLDOLVHV LQ XVHG 9:¡V DW WKHLU VLWH LQ )O\IRUG )ODYHOO 7KH\ RIIHU VRPH RI WKH EHVW GHDOV DURXQG DQG DUH FRQYHQLHQWO\ ORFDWHG QHDU :RUFHVWHU <RX¡UH JXDUDQWHHG IDQWDVWLF FXVWRPHU FDUH DQG D SHUVRQDO VHUYLFH 7KH\¡UH JUHDW EHFDXVH WKH\ DOVR RIIHU ILQDQFH SD\PHQW SODQV H[WHQGHG ZDUUDQW\ FRYHU DQG SDUW H[FKDQJH 7KH IXOO UDQJH RI 9:V LV XSGDWHG UHJXODUO\ VR LW¡V D JRRG LGHD WR FKHFN WKH ZHEVLWH DQG FDOO DKHDG

Holy Trinity International School

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For the full programme of events, talks and screenings linked to this exhibition visit www.theherbert.org

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Join the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum for

Museums at Night I Protest! FREE

Saturday 18 May, 2.00pm – 8.00pm

Holy Trinity International School is applying to become one of the Government’s new Free Schools. It provides an outstanding education for girls and boys aged 4 to 19, has a thriving Nursery and is renowned for academic excellence and outstanding pastoral care.

Contact us to register your interest.

Exploring the themes from Caught in the Crossfire, this large scale event welcomes everyone as part of the national Museums at Night event. Be the first to see new acquisitions, talk to artists, enjoy live music and a street art drawing battle! Whether you fancy trying your hand at something new, or simply watching one of the stunning displays, there’s sure to be something to delight and inspire everyone. N

Our recent GCSE results speak for themselves 100% of our students gained 5 A* - C, whilst 95% of students attained 5 A*- C grades, which includes Mathematics, English and Science; 98% of all exams taken by the school’s students achieved A* - C grades. 44% of all Holy Trinity International School students take 11 subjects each on average.

ISS M AD EE FR

Birmingham Road, Kidderminster, Worcestershire, DY10 2BY. Tel: 01562 822 929 Email : contact@holytrinity.co.uk

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Look out for our new website launching soon!

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CRAFT AND DESIGN MONTH

Ruskin Glass Centre host Open Studios Phil Potter

A

rtists and makers based at the Ruskin Glass Centre in Stourbridge will be opening their doors to the public this May, to coincide with the national Craft and Design Month. On the 18th and 19th of this month, the Ruskin Glass Centre Open Studios will consist of a series of demonstrations, exhibitions and the opportunity to buy local, handmade art and crafts. This will be the second time the centre hosts an event of this kind but the first time artists have been invited from the wider area to take part. The organisers say ‘there is so much talent in the Stourbridge area and it will be great to see the public getting involved and being able for the first time to meet and talk to individual artists in their own studios’. The idea of Open Studios originated in the salons of 17th century Paris and has been carried through up to the present day. As an internationally recognised event, Open Studios are run in a number of countries; these include events throughout the UK, Holland, Germany and America. An Open Studio is intended to foster creativity in an atmosphere of cultural exchange, conversation, encouragement and freedom of expression. Craft and Design Month was first launched in 2011 by craft&design magazine, the project receives no funding or grant aid and is funded by the artists themselves. Philip Potter, the

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director of Kairos Sculpture based at the RGC says ‘combining an Open Studio event with Craft and Design Month is a great idea because it expands Open Studios from just artists to include makers of all kinds, from textiles to glass crafts to jewellery’. Some of the highlights of the weekend include glass blowing demonstrations by resident artists at the Stourbridge Glassblowing Studio, an exhibition of New York by Jo Newman, inspired by her residency in New Mexico and you can discover the techniques Vic Bamforth uses to create her recognisable and collectable masterpieces. You’ll be inspired by the intricate handcarving of cameo glass Terri Colledge at Stourbridge Glass Engravers, there’ll be lampwork and bead-making demonstrations at Stourbridge Crafts and if that’s not enough to get you in the mood for crafts, you’ll not want to miss the two day pop-up art gallery of Bruntnell-Astley Contemporary Glass. The core of this year’s event is based around the studios of the Ruskin Glass Centre at Amblecote in Stourbridge. The event can also be followed on Facebook and our blog pages. www.facebook.com/SbridgeOpenStudios www.stourbridgeopenstudios.blogspot.co.uk

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Stourbridge OPEN STUDIOS May 18th &19th 2013 69

EdgeMagazine

AVONCROFT MUSEUM Ignite a passion for blacksmithing Hannah Griffiths

H

ave you ever thought about learning the ancient art of blacksmithing? Avoncroft Museum, along with their resident blacksmith Tim Goddard, has designed a variety of blacksmithing courses to suit all abilities. So if crafting objects from mild steel sounds fun to you, head to Avoncroft and try your hand at this ancient craft. Tim Goddard has over 20 years’ experience and runs these courses exclusively for Avoncroft. They range from one to three days, where you can gain valuable knowledge, learn new skills and craft magnificent metal pieces. To begin with, you will need to start with a one day introduction course where you’ll spend a full day in a fully equipped forge learning about the workshop and practising basic blacksmithing techniques. After covering health and safety procedures you will then be shown the tools, equipment and how to light and use the forge. The introduction course will also cover basic metallurgy, where you’ll learn how to judge the heat of the metal by its colour, before working on the anvil and learning a variety of techniques which will then lead to creating your own forged metal work to take home. If you want to go a step further, you can enjoy a choice of three other blacksmithing courses available at Avoncroft.

Introduction Course £115 Non-members; £100 Members Home and Garden Course £195 Non-members; £175 Members Country House Course £275 Non-Members; £255 Members Organic Forms Course £275 Non-members; £255 Members All materials and lunches are included in the price.

Avoncroft Museum Stoke Heath Bromsgrove B60 4JR 01527 831363 bookings@avoncroft.org.uk

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The home and garden course offers the chance to spend a weekend improving the skills learnt on the introduction course. On this particular course participants will have the opportunity to forge a beautiful, hand-crafted hanging basket bracket, artistic garden stake and a lantern bracket. Also on offer is the country house course. Taking place over three days you will have the chance to create an ornate, hand-forged, door-knocker and bootscraper on this country home themed course. If you’re looking for something a little more organic, the final course offered by Avoncroft is the three day Organic Forms. This course will develop your skills further creating three special hand-forged pieces including an ornamental ramshead, leaves and a garden snail. In order to complete the two and three day courses you should have some previous blacksmithing experience or have completed the Museum’s Introduction Course. The two and three day courses are adaptable to suit your needs and can be completed either on consecutive days or divided into one day a week. Please note that courses are suitable for those over 18 and some elements of the courses may be subject to chance on the day. For further information or to book, please contact the Bookings Officer via telephone or email.

Italian INSPIRATION. British INNOVATION. You’ve dreamt about it. You’ve visualised just how much a conservatory could enhance your home and your quality of life. And now, we’d like to open your mind to a whole new possibility. The possibility of Loggia, from 5 Star Windows.

Why not request a copy of our exquisite Loggia brochure or arrange a FREE design?

CALL 01905 887713

visit www.5starwindows.co.uk or pop into our fabulous showroom at:

Units 1 & 2 Tenat Works, Worcester Road Kidderminster, Worcestershire DY10 1JR

If you’re looking to add more style to your lifestyle, nothing quite comes close to Loggia by 5 Star. With its magnifi cent exterior, the first impression will be of superbly constructed elegance, and the lasting impression will be of an investment well made.

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A SENSE OF PLACE Shelanu Craft Collective Lucinda Bunn

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irmingham’s identity is steeped in a long history of creativity and invention. And the tradition continues with spin offs like the Shelanu women’s group where refugee women craft objects inspired by their experiences moving across frontiers. Too often their stories are left unheard but the Shelanu craft collective is giving a creative voice to every woman who walks through the door. Set up in 2011 by Craftspace, Shelanu is based at the Custard Factory, Birmingham’s innovative arts quarter. The aim was always to assist migrant, refugee and newly arrived women in the UK to find identity, individualism and become more aspirational in their new surroundings. Craftspace believes that goals can be achieved through creative and holistic development and that is exactly what Shelanu is about. But the group also strives to improve integration within the local community; after all, we can all benefit from the diversity of our society and the richness of women’s experience within it. Shelanu is as much about creating beautiful crafts as it is sharing a sense of place for women who have left their homes behind.

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Shelanu has collaborated with jewellery designers in Birmingham including Kathryn Partington and Rita Patel. The first collaboration Routes to Trade was influenced by the city’s trading networks. Kathryn Partington worked with Shelanu to explore these ideas. Kathryn’s mixed media work includes jewellery, tableware ceramics and printed textiles; she is a leading light in Birmingham’s jewellery, fashion and craft industries. The Routes to Trade collection of contemporary designed crafts feature stencil-like motifs on pins, chained necklaces and earrings. Using gold and silver plating, brass, beads and leather, each piece represents the experience of the craftswoman who made it. This first collection was launched at the Contemporary Craft Fair in Bovey Tracey, Devon, in 2011. More recently, Shelanu has worked with Rita Patel. Migrating Birds is a collection inspired by journeys. Rita often incorporates rice, gold and silver into her pieces, using materials which are precious in Asian cultures. Rita’s expertise helped the Shelanu team to find their own influences and thus, the bird has become a symbol for their own migration. Following individual design

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development, the Shelanu members selected their favourite bird designs to be reworked as collective forms. They were then wire cut from copper in the Jewellery Quarter. These pieces have been hand finished, enamelled or oxidised by Shelanu or silver plated in the Jewellery Quarter. The Migrating Birds range was launched at Rugby Art Gallery and Museum in July 2012. Each of the ranges: Swallow, Sparrow and Wave are available in different finishes; silver plated, oxidised, black, blue or red enamel. Empowered by what they have achieved and the products they have designed and made, the women of Shelanu are also able to facilitate workshops for the community. Shelanu is always looking for clients for bespoke commissions and workshops and they’re also keen to talk to potential partners, volunteers and mentors. All funds raised by Shelanu go towards assisting migrant and refugee women to regain well-being and aspiration through creative development. They also integrate and contribute by sharing their skills with local communities. Shelanu member Mary says, ‘each week I look forward to Fridays, to come and take part in the

craft workshop. I meet people from different cultures and everybody is friendly. We learn from each other. We learn different skills, use different materials and make beautiful products’. The women of Shelanu have adopted a tradition with roots in the 17th century, when artisans were commissioned to satisfy Charles II’s passion for elaborate shoe buckles. When shoelaces were introduced, they turned their craft to jewellery. When you walk through the Victorian streets of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, you’re transported back to when the first jewellers moved in. Mostly men, these artisans built a name for Birmingham. And centuries later, the trade is still a jewel in Birmingham’s crown, only now it is women who are the jewellers at the forefront of regeneration. And refugee women at that. Shelanu craft collective has established a sense of continuity in the craft of jewellerymaking and is producing jewellers and designers who can share their cultural roots with ours and inspire a shared future for Birmingham. www.shelanucollective.co.uk

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alfresco dining and the promise of better weather, just around the corner, offer extra opportunities to enjoy our two great Warwickshire gastropubs - The Stag and The Moorings. Warmer, longer days and pleasant outdoor surroundings add an all important ingredient to make your experience even more satisfying. Award winning food, excellent real ales and fine wines plus a first class service from top to bottom, inside out.

lively contemporary two-storey canalside pub at Myton Road, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire CV31 3NY. Tel: 01926 425043 www.themoorings.co.uk Publican Finalist 2011 Eagle Star Award winner 2011 Les Routiers Finalist 2012

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intimate classic country pub at Welsh Road, Offchurch, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire CV33 9AQ. Tel: 01926 425801 www.thestagatoffchurch.com National Food Pub of the Year Les Routiers Newcomer of the Year 2011 Publican Finalist 2011 Les Routiers Finalist 2012

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