Edge Magazine May 2014 Edition (Volume 21) by MLP Publishing Ltd

EdgeMagazine May 2014 FREE EDITION

Your essential guide to Warwickshire, Worcestershire and the West Midlands

Cover: Versions

Let’s Go

Saks Salon

The new collection from Temper

Fun-filled family days out

Kenilworth’s hair haven

Food & Drink • Culture • Business • Fashion • Lifestyle

EdgeMagazine

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EDITOR’S BIT T

here’s lots of be excited about this May, not least the beautiful green spears of asparagus inspiring our plates, but the gardens that are coming to life all around us and the new exhibitions, activities and days out to be planned and enjoyed in the coming weeks. We’re definitely appreciating food this month, especially the fantastic eateries, fine dining restaurants and hot spots for champagne and fun we have in our area. We have modern fine dining from Peel’s restaurant at Hampton Manor Hotel, innovative gastronomy from Loves restaurant, piquant light lunches at Bamboodle noodle bar and an exclusive interview with the head chef at Chateau Impney’s new restaurant. Of course, if you’re doing home-cooking this month then you’ll be pleased to know what Hillers Farm Shop has in store and with yet another wine competition, no doubt you’ll be entertaining friends and family as the evenings get warmer.

Michael Abu-Zalaf Editor-in-Chief

Our Let’s Go feature brings you all the latest activities, days out and cultural visits to make this month, with or without the kids. Or why not take a trip to Shipston-on-Stour for great shopping, hair and fashion boutiques and great cafés and overnight stays? And for a real thrill, test your nerve at Go Ape. The Edge team took on the challenge, so check out our adventure inside. Make sure you keep up-to-date with all the latest local stories, features and exciting events on our website. On behalf of the team at Edge, have a great May and we hope to see you all again in June. 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

In loving memory of a dear friend John Melville - Smith 31st July 1920 - 04th April 2014

FEATURES Loves Restaurant: A review............................14 A tree top adventure......................................62 The art of food and wine

The Edge team Go Ape

Saks Salon.....................................................44 Cover: Versions..............................…............74 Kenilworth’s hair haven

The new collection from Temper

Let’s Go..........................................................58 Fun-filled family days out

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10 Benefits of Buying New

There’s never been a better time to buy a new Bovis Home. If you’ve not considered buying a brand new property before, you’ll be amazed at the huge range of great benefits that will be waiting for you when you arrive. We round up some of the best reasons to make that modern move First through the door

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A helping hand When buying a new property from Bovis Homes you can save thousands of pounds on your purchase. Their range of purchase assistance schemes varies from home to home and development to development, but can include anything from the shared equity scheme Help to Buy, the 95% mortgage called NewBuy, funding towards your legal fees and deposit, providing free carpets, liaising with your estate agent and paying their fees, or even buying your old property in part exchange.

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Quality comes first All Bovis Homes are built to exacting industry standards and undergo regular inspections by the National House Building Council to ensure quality of build. New homes generally also offer a higher degree of built-in security and safety than older properties. A new Bovis Home will include enhanced door locking, a security chain, window locks and mains powered smoke alarms (with battery backup), which are all fitted as standard. *A research study by National Energy Services, commissioned by the New Homes Marketing Board, found living in a new home could save up to £556 a year on average energy bills compared with older-style homes. Savings due to new homes generating more than 60% less CO2 emissions.

EdgeMagazine

CONTENTS A fine kitchen

Premident- dental implants

Champagne supernova

Regain that youthful glow

The art of food and wine

Mirror mirror

The season to be savvy

Fairtrade is more than skin deep

Modern dining with a taste of heritage

Brighten up your home

The new hub

Hearing like a dream

Stirrups

Hydroblast

Noodles and broth

Let’s go

Hand sown, home grown

Taking flight

The local kitchen

A tree top adventure

Heart of the kitchen

Brand loyalty

The Hattery

The Papers of Tony Veitch

Beautiful hair, professional service

Acquiring commercial property

Shipston-on-Stour

Can’t see the Woodford the trees

A woolly wonder

Hospice at home

Enchanting Heucheras

Pop of culture

Blooming marvellous

Master at work

Floral fancies

Marvellous machines

Hair haven

What’s on

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...our Spring menu and al fresco dining – a brilliant combination... Richard O'Grady - General Manager at The Moorings

The chefs at our three pubs – The Stag, The Moorings and The Forest – are passionate about using seasonal ingredients, so when spring comes around you can tell they’re in their element with all the wonderful fresh meat and veggies. As a pub manager, I love this time of year too because we can fling the doors open and invite our customers to eat outside if they wish in our lovely pub gardens or on the waterside. Great food in the great outdoors! Is there anything more mouth-watering? Inside or out, all our pubs are dedicated to giving our customers a great experience in every way – the drink, the food, the service, the ambience….so why not pay us a visit some sunny day?

Discover our three pubs, each devoted to delicious food and drink in characterful surroundings. Welsh Road, Offchurch, Leamington Spa, Warks; CV33 9AQ. Tel: 01926 425801 www.thestagatoffchurch.com

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

Les Routiers Finalist 2013

Eagle Star Awards

National Food Pub of the Year

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

Food Pub Of The Year 2012 Les Routiers Finalist 2012

EdgeMagazine

EDITORIAL Michael Abu-Zalaf - Editor in Chief @ZalafAbu -

michael@edgemagazine.org

Tel:07809 702 992 Lucinda Bunn - Deputy Editor @lucindabunn -

lucinda@edgemagazine.org

Hannah Griffiths - Editorial Assistant @EdgeMag_Hannah-

hannah@edgemagazine.org

SALES Alice Perrey - Warwickshire Sales @alice_perrey -

alice@edgemagazine.org

Tel:07714 490 943 Steve Picker - Worcestershire Sales @EdgeMag_Steve -

steve@edgemagazine.org

Tel:07515 493 703 Daniel Somers - West Midlands Sales @edgemag_daniel -

daniel@edgemagazine.org

Tel:07834 538 284

CONTRIBUTORS Rebecca Burden

Lucie Abu-Zalaf

Mike Stafford

Karl Strawbridge

Brett Laniosh

Christopher Lee

Tom Ware

Michael Abu-Zalaf

Laura Clay

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

JILL WHEELOCK-LINES A

F A M I L Y

R U N

U N I Q U E F O R

Y O U R

01905 613799

B U S I N E S S

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1 9 8 5 .

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

S O M E O N E

8 F R IA R S T R E E T, W O R C E S T E R

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A FINE KITCHEN Peel’s Restaurant: A review Lucie Abu-Zalaf

eel’s Restaurant is intensely likable. Its British modern and French inspired menu is presented throughout three dining rooms; the Tasting room, the Library and the Courtyard, making for a modern setting and some great spaces for private dining. The plates coming from the kitchen are exquisite and we were treated to a special tasting menu, created for us; a plate for her and a plate for him. The highlights for him were the first course of handdived scallops, served with spring peas, Ibérico ham, olive oil and a pea purée. Light and intriguing; with the Ibérico being the surprising hero of this mini plate. The fourth course of rabbit loin, kidney and mini rabbit rack also featured braised leg meat moulded into a pressing

and sealed in with beurre noisette and served with morel mushrooms and baby gem blanched in a morel cream. Rich and creamy, the sauce married the meats beautifully. It was wonderful to try all the different cuts on one plate, cooked differently to showcase the rabbit’s famed flavour. Head chef Ryan Swift shows us his seasonal inspiration in his cooking, which is brilliantly executed; there’s brightness and unusual clarity. Each component counts, like the second course for her: heritage tomato, basil purée, tomato jelly, buffalo mozzarella, micro basil and freeze-dried white balsamic. Fresh, pure ingredients bring spring into summer and the fragrant sweet basil does everything to invigorate and awaken your senses.

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The pre-dessert was a revelation. Whipped lemon curd isn’t something we’re used to seeing on fine dining menus. But the kitchen have perfected this little plate with its toasted meringue and salted pine nut mousse and lemon sorbet made with liquid nitrogen. For me, it was the clever precursor to some fantastic desserts. Evaporated milk ice cream comes, with cinnamon crack, milk purée, cinnamon doughnut and coffee nougat. There is an uncommon delicacy to the ice cream but best of all was the sticky nuggets of coffee nougat. Desserts should be playful and entertaining. And Ryan Swift has mastered the art. We enjoyed dessert in the Tasting Room which seats 8 diners at a time. It’s the perfect setting for a private dining experience with friends and family, with the oak panels and intimate lighting. Away from the larger dining rooms, you can really focus on the food.

The wine list is clearly written by someone who wants you to share their enthusiasm. And Seamus Sharkey, restaurant manager and wine buff has selected some beautiful bottles. The servers are informative and present the food with finesse and charm. If you’re looking for a modern take on the fine dining experience, you must go. Hampton Manor Shadowbrook Lane Hampton-in-Arden Solihull B92 0DQ 01675 446 080 www.hamptonmanor.eu/peels/private-dining

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CHAMPAGNE SUPERNOVA The Laurent-Perrier Bar at Marco Pierre White Michael Abu-Zalaf

he Laurent-Perrier Champagne Bar at Marco Pierre White in the Cube has re-launched after a dramatic £100,000 transformation led by interior design team, Mr McQueen. The re-launch comes following a new two year deal with the highend champagne brand. The 25th floor bar stands proudly overlooking Birmingham as the city’s only sky bar alongside the main bar in the Marco Pierre White restaurant. But the Laurent-Perrier Champagne Bar is a draw in its own right. I was instantly surprised by the new look; plush upholstery, contemporary design, with a sleek, monotone colour way. Gone are the tired-looking furnishings and the cold clinical lines. The Mr McQueen team has injected warmth to an area which had been previously unused. Walking through towards the champagne bar, we were greeted by Jaroslav Cleko, (Jaro to you and me), the bar manager and our host for the evening. We sat by the window, mesmerised by the panoramic view of the city at night. We were treated to flutes of Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Alexandra Rosé Vintage. It’s lively and crisp, full-bodied too, with a velvety texture and aromas of wild strawberries. The Rosé Vintage is just one of several champagnes to choose from; the Ultra Brut, the Demi-Sec, the Grand Siècle and the Vintage 2002 – all of course produced using traditional, time-honoured methods under the Laurent-Perrier pedigree.

With signature champagne cocktails and a full wine list to choose from, the bar has space for up to 80 guests and you can even book the bar for private celebrations. The Laurent-Perrier Champagne Bar also serves afternoon tea with bubbles so you can head to Marco Pierre White after shopping and sight-seeing in Birmingham’s bustling city centre. Traditional finger sandwiches and cake selections are served with your choice of Perrier Brut or Rosé Brut. The Laurent-Perrier Champagne Bar is a hot spot for everyone to relax and enjoy the fabulous cityscape and the attentive service, which hits the right balance between friendly and formal. There’s something transformative about drinking fizz on the 25th floor of the iconic Cube building, everyone should try it. Marco Pierre White Steakhouse and Grill 200 Wharfside Street The Cube Birmingham B1 1PR 0121 634 3433 www.mpwsteakhousebirmingham.co.uk

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THE ART OF FOOD AND WINE Loves Restaurant: A review Lucinda Bunn

reating great food isn’t easy. Creating stylish, experimental and technical plates is incredibly complicated. It takes oceans of experience and hard work. The Loves’ 5-course tasting menu is delectably intense, a myriad of technical achievements and flourishes of pure indulgence; this is quite a menu. We were greeted on arrival with a flight of Chapel Down Rose, an English sparkling, of which Claire Love, Front of House Manager and wine expert, is a champion. Gentle from the soft pink colour to the subtle aftertaste, this sparkling is the perfect prelude. An amuse bouche of cauliflower foam with feta and herb oil entertains as it should. The flavour is faultless, the creamy light cauliflower, the salty feta and the fragrant trickle of infused oil. Next up, the jerusalem artichoke velouté, coddled pullet egg and braised venison. The theatrics begin as the velouté is poured at the table. The egg is the centrepiece as it’s introduced to the velvety artichoke soup. We continue with the aniseed Gloucestershire pork cheek, served with milk chocolate and tomato risotto. Soft, melt-in-your-mouth pork slides onto your fork with the sweet risotto making this elegant but comforting. But the real showstopper is the Grosset Alea Riesling from South Australia’s Clare Valley; clean and refreshing with a zippy natural acidity on the finish.

www.edgemagazine.org Two cuts of Herefordshire beef follow; slow-cooked ox cheek and seared underblade. This is quite a plate of food. Served with choucroute, the surprise is the smoked potato mash. Head Chef Steve Love smokes the potatoes himself, a technique which inspired the choice of wine. According to Claire, ‘we needed a wine to stand up to the beef and potato.’ And the De Trafford Blueprint Syrah definitely does that. It’s got lots of character, which takes some getting used .The deep red colour and wild dark berry fruit creates a rich palate. This wine is not for the faint-hearted. Now, dessert. A mini pot of vanilla panacotta, with raspberry crumble and pink champagne jelly. The panacotta makes you wonder at the craftsmanship as you devour it. Fun, frivolous pink champagne jelly is nothing but delightful atop this little pot. The first of the dessert wines comes from the same vineyard as the red, ‘a total coincidence’, says Claire. Marmalade nose, syrupy texture, it’s got great intensity and sweetness. For wine lovers who are yet to find a dessert wine to please a table of guests, this is the one. And finally, the almond cake, served with precise gems of hazelnut and chocolate mousse, a scoop of peanut butter ice cream and a flight of Mount Horrocks Cordon Cut Riesling, also from the Clare Valley but developed by the protégé of the master behind the Grosset Alea. Never has peanut butter been so sophisticated. This kitchen enjoys dessert, that much is clear, and rarely will you find a more practised hand than here. The service could not be more solicitous, kindly or expert. Claire’s knowledge would inspire anyone to take more time considering wine. Of course, there are many reasons to revere Loves Restaurant and even more reasons to go and enjoy the experience. The Glasshouse Canal Square Browning Street Birmingham B16 8FL 0121 454 5151 www.loves-restaurant.co.uk

RESTAURANT

3 Rosettes “Steve and Claire Love's trajectory through the fine-dining scene of the Midlands has been little short of astonishing. From early days in Leamington Spa to the present glitzy waterside address in the centre of Birmingham, they have turned heads and dropped jaws along the way” AA Restaurant Guide 2012

Top 100 Best Restaurants in Birmingham Rated 4th in Top 100 Restaurants by Sustainable Restaurant Association Only notable wine award listed in West Midlands by The Good Food Guide

Spring Menus now available £55 5 course tasting menu £75 8 course tasting menu £48 for 3 course a la Carte All menus available with matching wine flights Sunday Lunches at Loves Every month, Loves opens it doors for the last Sunday of each month for guests to enjoy Steve’s giant Yorkshire puddings with Roast beef, alongside other great dishes. Book now and see why everyone is talking about Loves as the best place to go for Sunday lunch 3 course Sunday Lunch £35, Sunday Tasting menu £55 Dates Available: Sunday 25th May Sunday 15th & Sunday 29th June Sunday 27th July 2014 Loves Restaurant, The Glasshouse, Canal Square Browning Street, Birmingham, B16 8FL Tel: 0121 454 5151 www.loves-retaurant.co.uk

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THE SEASON TO BE SAVVY It’s competition time in the world of wine Laura Clay

hen you select a bottle of wine from your local wine merchant, are you influenced by wines that have award stickers? Some wines have awards plastered all over them, others just one, most none at all. We regularly see stickers of winners from competitions in Paris, Brussels, Mâcon, Australia but probably the most prestigious are those from London, particularly the International Wine Challenge (IWC), Decanter and International Wine and Spirit Competition. These are considered to be the most valuable to the producer and the most reliable for the consumer. So how do they work and what do they mean? I have been a Senior Judge for IWC for many years so this is the one I know most about. The International Wine Challenge has been one of the world’s leading competitions since its inception in 1983 and is certainly the biggest with more than 10,000 entries submitted for appraisal every year in the hope of winning a medal. The wines are evaluated over a period of two weeks by over 350 wine professionals – wine-makers, buyers, writers and educators, as well as some consumers who give up their time to spend a day at the Barbican, historically, though more recently at Lords, tasting wines from all over the globe. Wines are presented blind (i.e. we have no idea what they are) in flights of like for like, with a panel chairman at the helm, often a Master of Wine but certainly someone who is regarded as having one of the most discerning palates in the UK, to head each group of up to 6 tasters. Each wine is rated out of 100; if it is judged to be 84 or less it is out of the medal running but not before Charles Metcalfe, one of the founders of the competition and his 3 co-chairmen (including Tim Atkin MW from Saturday Kitchen) have tasted and agreed that it should be so dismissed or indeed put back into the competition for round two. If it scores between 80 and 84 points it will be commended. Round 2, in the second week of judging, is when the colour of the medal is awarded: 85-90 scores a bronze, 90-95 a silver, 95-100 gold. A tasting note on each wine is submitted along with the score agreed by the group and this is again checked by Charles, Tim and the team. Furthermore, trophies are awarded to those wines judged to be the best of their style, grape variety, region or price range – look out for these as there are some truly great wines amongst their number. A pretty rigorous procedure, I think you will agree, and therefore an IWC sticker is one you can trust if you see it on a bottle. For more wine advice and events go to www.bywine.co.uk

Competition And here’s a competition for you to win 2 bottles of New Zealand Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc from IWC Midlands Regional Merchant of the Year, Tanners, worth £9.95 each. Just answer this question: In which year was Tanners established? (see their logo!) Submit your answer to wine@edgemagazine.org by May 31st, giving your name and contact details. Competition open to UK residents only. You must be over 18 to enter. 1 entry per person

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MODERN DINING WITH A TASTE OF HERITAGE Get a flavour of Chateau Impney’s recently refurbished restaurant and bar Lucinda Bunn

efurbished and relaunched as part of Chateau Impney Hotel’s recent multi-million pound renovation, the Impney Restaurant and Bar offers diners in the area a contemporary and informal space in which to enjoy a seasonally changing menu of British classics. We caught up with executive chef Stephen Unwin before service to see what guests can expect from Worcestershire’s newest eatery this spring. How did you start cooking? It was a happy accident, really. I studied computer science at university which made me realise I didn’t want to work with computers. I’d been working in an Italian restaurant in Birmingham to help fund my studies, and it was there that I felt at home. I worked the pizza dough section and I thrived on the practicality of it all. It became my reference point for what I enjoyed doing and I realised I wanted to take this passion and turn it into a career.

How does cooking in a hotel compare to cooking in a restaurant? I started my professional career working in hotels and I find I’m most confident in that set-up. It is pretty different to working in a restaurant; I suppose a restaurant kitchen is a far more concentrated version of a hotel kitchen. Of course, we have different areas to cover, including breakfasts, afternoon teas and conferences, and when there’s a wedding or a large event, we’re sometimes catering for more than a thousand people at a time. The challenge is to ensure that the quality of the food on offer is of the standard we set ourselves, whether it’s for the customers in our restaurant or a large scale event for hundreds of people. Despite serving over 50,000 meals every year, I am pleased to say that we more than meet that challenge on a daily basis.

www.edgemagazine.org What inspires you when creating your menus? I think as a chef, you can take inspiration from a multitude of sources. I like Marco Pierre White’s style of cooking as you can really see his passion and skill come to the fore, and I often look to other hotels for inspiration. The hotel sector is constantly innovating and pushing the boundaries when it comes to dining, so it’s important that my team and I know what is happening in both the UK hotel sector and in hotels around the world. This way we can ensure we are offering diners the best culinary experience. This doesn’t always have to be about introducing new dishes either, it can be reinventing the classics. For example, our current menu offers the half honey roast duck – a nostalgic nod to the 1970s that has been given our own modern adaptation. Meals that people know and love seem to bring a smile to the faces of our diners, and that is at the heart of our approach. You’re revamping the menu to reflect the changing season, so what can we expect? It’s a real melting pot of ideas at the moment, and we are currently exploring a myriad of tastes and flavours. With many good local suppliers and ingredients on offer, combined with an array of classic British recipes to consider, we’re really spoilt for choice and that’s before we even contemplate how to give the dishes our own modern twist. The ingredients need to say spring to our guests, so we are looking to meals such as pork fillet wrapped in Parma ham with Marsala sauce or herb-crusted rack of lamb with chargrilled asparagus and pine nuts. It’s a lengthy process that involves time and passion, and we hope our customers will see that when they dine with us. What experience will diners have at the Impney Restaurant and Bar? We want to get across the message that good food can be enjoyed at any time, not just on special occasions. Both Ben Elder, the general manager, and I have the ethos that a good restaurant provides the backdrop for a great evening. If the atmosphere is very formal, then people aren’t as relaxed as they could or should be. Therefore, we have kept the presentation of the restaurant contemporary and laid-back, offering diners a friendly, efficient service and a menu of high-quality food that showcases the very best ingredients. For further information about the Impney Restaurant and Bar and to book, please call 01905 774 411 or visit chateau-impney.com.

Droitwich Spa Worcestershire WR9 0BN 01905 774 411 chateau-impney.com

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THE NEW HUB At the Kingfisher Shopping Centre

ig plans are afoot for the Kingfisher Centre. Redditch’s famous shopping centre is a favourite with locals and visitors to the area, with 140 shops and thousands of brands all under one roof. But the latest addition is the new leisure quarter, the Hub which opened last month. The Kingfisher Centre has already welcomed Nando’s and Pure Gym, with two more restaurants being added in the summer. No doubt visitors will also love the fact that these eateries will be trading alongside Vue’s seven screen cinema. Nando’s is the latest restaurant to come to the Hub; the home of legendary Portuguese flame-grilled Peri-Peri chicken. The restaurant joins Pure Gym which is open 24/7 to members of the public and will offer a range of fitness classes, as well as the use of over 220 pieces of brand new kit. The Real China, the ultimate Oriental eating experience will soon follow, offering a fresh, delicious buffet daily. In true Nando’s style, bright, African inspired artwork is featured throughout the restaurant which will seat 172 guests at any one time. The new Nando’s has also brought a total of 35 new jobs to the area, ranging from cashiers and grillers, through to assistant managers. Nando’s chicken is served on, or off the bone, in a wrap, burger or pitta, with a delicious selection of sides, salads, appetisers and sharing platters, Nando’s offers great variety, and mouth-watering recipes to please everyone. For a family party of a fun night out with friends or even a light bite while you shop, Nando’s has it all. Karen French, Regional MD of Nando’s commented, “We’re delighted to be opening the doors to our new restaurant in Redditch - a town that’s been on our radar for some time. The Kingfisher Shopping Centre is a fantastic location and will offer shoppers, both locals and visitors to the area, a memorable Nando’s experience!” Kingfisher Shopping Center General Manager, Ken Williams, said, “It is great to have Nando’s as the first restaurant to open in the Kingfisher Shopping Centre’s new leisure Hub. Our £2m investment to attract a new generation of quality restaurants to Redditch is proving to be very popular with our shoppers and it’s great to have Nando’s lead the way.”

Kingfisher Shopping Centre Redditch Worcester B97 4HJ www.nandos.co.uk www.kingfishershoppingcentre.co.uk

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STIRRUPS Under starter’s orders Hannah Griffiths

ocated in the heart of the picturesque village of Cutnall Green, Worcestershire, stands a hidden gem waiting to be rediscovered.

Stirrups restaurant and bar is the latest venture undertaken by husband and wife team Chris and Jo Massey. The couple who are racehorse owners and have previously run a successful restaurant have completely transformed the 100 year old pub; elegantly decorating the 66-cover restaurant combining equine country chic with a glamorous mix of chandeliers and leather booths. At Stirrups the aim is simple; to create delicious and unpretentious food, using the finest seasonal ingredients, combined with a comprehensive selection of wines, real ales and champagne, giving you an indulgent experience with every visit. Award-winning executive head chef Loredan Gargalac’s enthusiasm and knowledge of cooking heavily influence the medley of menus, catering to all tastes whilst offering an experience you’ll return for again and again. Each menu at Stirrups combines modern English and European cuisine offering you a different food sensation with every dish you choose. Using only the finest locally sourced produce Stirrups is the ideal destination for a quick lunchtime bite, afternoon tea or sumptuous evening meal. Serving food from 12pm until 9:30pm, diners can choose from a medley of dishes including daily and seasonal specials from the à la carte menu and established favourites such as the gourmet burger, the ‘Taste of Stirrups’ platter to share and an elegant yet relaxed afternoon tea . For those who enjoy something a little meatier, executive head chef Loredan has unveiled a unique niche at Stirrups with his renowned ‘Loredan’s famous steaks’. Rapidly becoming a highlight on the Stirrups menu, Loredan marinades each piece of meat using a secret whisky marinade recipe then grills them to perfection catering to each diner’s individual requirements. The lavish surroundings of Stirrups make for a wonderful location for a number of occasions. The exquisite leather booths make for glamorous evening dining with friends whilst the beautifully laid tables create a more intimate atmosphere to dine with a loved one. The equestrian décor reflects the couple’s passion for horses with a variety of pictures and caricatures of horse racing lining the walls whilst an ornate, open-plan wrought-iron staircase leads up to a function room catering for 40 people; the perfect location for a family event, ladies’ groups or business conferences.

When the sun shines, Stirrups opens the doors to the lovely conservatory offering alfresco dining and drinking, but if the weather turns cooler, the comfortable and relaxing bar space is ideal to relax and socialise. Chris, Jo and Loredan are planning a number of themed food evenings and gourmet nights throughout the year and are inviting you to join them. With ample off road parking and easy access from the surrounding areas and motorways, Stirrups is a must visit restaurant and bar. For more information and to book a table please visit the website. Kidderminster Road Cutnall Green Droitwich Spa Worcestershire WR9 0PW 01299 851600 www.stirrupsrestaurant.co.uk

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Nestling in the Worcestershire Countryside in the heart of Cutnall Green, the all new Stirrups is a restaurant and bar developed for all occasions.

Whether that is a lunch for business or pleasure, a gathering of friends for afternoon tea or an intimate evening meal with a loved one, Stirrups can cater for it all. There is something for everyone on the menu from gourmet burgers and stunning salads through to fresh fish and melt in the mouth steaks. All our food has been created with locally sourced, fresh produce by award winning chef Loredan Gargalac. So come and have a drink in the bar and sample the atmosphere or dine Al Fresco with our new outdoor entertaining area.

Tel: 01299 851600

Email: eat@stirrupsrestaurant.co.uk

www.stirrupsrestaurant.co.uk

Stirrups Restaurant and Bar Cutnall Green

Kidderminster Road

Droitwich Spa

Stirrups Restaurant and Bar

Worcestershire

WR9 0PW

@Stirrups_Dining

Just a taste of our menu... Starters Classic ‘70s Style’ Greenland Prawn & Pink Lady Apple Cocktail, Jack Daniel’s Marie Rose, Brown Bread & Butter. Home Smoked Breast of Duck, Pomegranate & Blood Orange Salad. Mains Stirrups Luncheon Platter* Assortment of Fine Meats, Páte, Pickle & Salad, Served with Rustic Bread & Butter. Stirrups Stumpies Goat’s Cheese Salad Mixed Leaves, Sautéed New Potatoes, Dry Cured Smoked Bacon Lard, Local Cheese, Walnut Vinaigrette & Balsamic Glaze. Sandwiches Full selection of hot and cold mouthwatering sandwiches available on our extensive lunchtime bar menu. Loredan’s Famous Steaks Choose from the finest local meat, all marinated in Chef’s secret Whiskey Marinade Recipe served with Herb and Garlic Confit Tomato, White Truffle Oil Roasted Parsnips Puree, Buttered Spinach, Triple Cooked Fat Chips, Green Peppercorn Sauce & Café de Paris. *Vegetarian option available

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NOODLES AND BROTH Bamboodle: A review Lucinda Bunn

amboodle offers diners something special; fresh ingredients, authentic Asian cuisine and each plate is prepared in minutes; for once you can enjoy a proper lunch. The healthy and tasty Pan-Asian menu has special dishes to take away and midweek temptations for a healthy and light lunch out with friends. The lunch specials feature sticky beef salad, quarter chicken and fries, tom yum shrimp and noodle soup, chicken yuk sung fried rice and vegetable pad Thai. Each colourful plate is full of flavour, spice and at a reasonable price point, it’s hard to pass up. The highlights for us were the yuk sung, which was served with a little Indonesian chutney. We squeezed fresh lime juice over the sticky rice and dived in. The tom yum soup was also particularly special. The depth of flavour, the clean heat, this bowl has bite. And with fresh shrimp and spring onion shoots, it’s light and healthy too. Bamboodle occupies the realm of really personal restaurants, defined by a small family team’s vision. And the friendly service proves that. The menu reflects a passion for authentic cooking, a taste of the east and a healthy alternative to many of its competitors. You can enjoy your meal in the comfort of the restaurant; a modern space with seating at the bar and tables for bigger groups too, or make use of the takeaway service. Choose from bites, boards and bowls of traditional combinations and innovative flavours. Indonesian beef soup, seared sesame crusted tuna salad or chargrilled pork with flat rice noodles and sticky sauce; this is a fantastic celebration of street food. For more on the live music events at Bamboodle and the special offers for mid-week treats and Bamboodle Sundays, check out the website.

7-9 Union Street Stratford-upon-Avon Warwickshire CV37 6QT 01789 414999 www.bamboodle.co.uk

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

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HILLSCOURT Hillscourt has become an increasingly popular wedding venue in recent years and offers a warm and friendly environment. We pride ourselves on quality service at affordable prices. The centre has been refurbished to a high standard over recent years.

Excellent

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

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

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HAND SOWN, HOME GROWN Hillers Farm Shop Lucinda Bunn

here are changes at Hillers Farm Shop this spring with the busy Garden Restaurant being extended to accommodate more diners. The gifts and interiors shop will now adjoin the restaurant with a beautiful view of the surrounding garden. Sink into soft leather sofas for coffee and a newspaper or lunch alfresco this summer on the garden terrace. Fresh, local produce Recently featured on Sky News in a healthy eating segment, the Hillers team prides itself on providing the local community with fresh, sustainable food at a reasonable price point. Most of what you’ll find at Hillers Farm Shop is grown on the Hillers Farm, with the rest sourced locally from small fruit and veg growers within a few miles of the shop. Make your way to the Hiller Fish Shop, offering the finest fresh and frozen fish and seafood from wild Whitby halibut, Dover sole and wild turbot to diver-caught scallops and organic salmon; not local but certainly sustainable. To sample all the fresh, local produce from Hillers Farm Shop, you need only head next door to the Garden Restaurant

And with an extensive new menu featuring breakfast classics, light bites and lunchtime favourites, the Hillers healthy and homemade ethos is proving a hit with locals and visitors from afar. Tuck into Warwickshire Truckle and ale rarebit with apple and onion chutney or a warm grilled goats’ cheese salad with beetroot, walnuts, chickpeas and fig compote, safe in the knowledge that each and every ingredient has been sourced locally or grown on the Hillers Farm with some produce going from plot to plate the very same day. This May... This month, the Rose Garden will be in bloom, with 150 different varieties of roses on show. The Rose Garden is the centrepiece of the Hillers grounds, regarded as one of the finest of its kind in Warwickshire. Nestled between peonies, clematis and tulips, this 2 acre garden is open from May to September. Treat your senses to the beautiful Rose Garden on a sunny day this spring.

Know your food and where it’s from

Dunnington Heath Farm Dunnington Alcester Warwickshire B49 5PD

Coming from the kitchen are culinary delights, created using the fresh, local produce found in the farm shop.

01789 491950 www.hillers.co.uk

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01905 77 44 11 | enquiries@chateau-impney.com | chateau-impney.com Chateau Impney Hotel & Exhibition Centre, Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire WR9 0BN Stay up to date with our latest news, offers and events:

facebook.com/ChateauImpneyHotel

twitter.com/ChateauImpney

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THE LOCAL KITCHEN Everything that's cooking in the three counties Gardeners Arms, Droitwich Situated on the Droitwich canal in a quintessentially traditional village pub style, is the Gardeners Arms. The awardwinning, CAMRA pub of the season offers a taste of the country with a combination of local produce and fine cask ales. To really make the most of the spring weather, the Gardeners Arms is opening up the fantastic country gardens featuring their outdoor kitchen and heated restaurant, for those, which are planning a celebration or wedding this is the ultimate spot, with the warm and friendly ambiance of the gardens is superb. The Gardeners Arms is the ideal place to enjoy good traditional homemade pub food, the chef is always changing the menu so you never know what to expect, except good food at a fair price.

Vines Lane, Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire, WR9 8LU 01905 772936

www.gardeners-arms.com

Chadbury Farm Shop Chadbury Farm Shop, a five generation family-run business, is passionate about locally sourced and seasonal food and stocks all manner of mouth-watering food, drink and fresh produce. Chadbury Farm Shop received the ‘highly commended’ seal of approval at the Countryside Alliance Awards 2013 for their range of local English wines, bitters, ales and ciders. You’ll find cheeses, vegetables and artisan juices too. Chadbury Farm Shop is proud to support local producers and suppliers from Evesham Market and Drinkwaters in Chipping Campden to the students at Pershore College. Chadbury, Evesham, Worcestershire WR11 4TD 01386 446705 www.chadburyfarmshop.co.uk

Alcester and Forest of Arden Food Festival – 17th May 2014 Following the announcement last autumn by a national IPC magazine that Alcester Food Festival is one of the top three in Britain, the bookings for May 2014 have come in at a record level. Last year for the first time an additional autumn festival was held which proved equally as popular as the spring events and again attracted an estimated footfall of around 15,000. This year a great emphasis has been placed on the choice of products to ensure a wide variety of high quality and interest products. A free park and ride service will be provided throughout the day from the car park on Adams Way on the Arden Forest Industrial Estate which will be well signposted from all roads leading to Alcester. www.alcesterfoodfestival.org.uk

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Painted Kitchen Company The kitchen is the heart of every home and must be functional and stylish. With that in mind, the Painted Kitchen Company designs, supplies and installs their own range of handmade, bespoke kitchens in Worcestershire, Warwickshire, the West Midlands and Gloucestershire. The Painted Kitchen Company is a family run business from which you can rest assured that, all kitchens are produced locally. From design and construction to finishes and appliances, you can be involved in each step of the process. Traditional country style or modern hightech space, you decide. Blackminster Business Park, Blackminster, Evesham, Worcestershire WR11 7RE 01386 830006

www.thepaintedkitchencompany.com

Vinology – Whisky lovers welcome Vinology in Stratford-upon-Avon is a favourite with wine experts but did you know they are also single malt whisky specialists? Vinology offers the best selection of Scottish malts to be found in Warwickshire along with a fine collection of other whiskies from around the world. If you’re looking for a new tipple, Vinology also hosts whisky tutoring evenings. Of course, the extensive collection of wine and spirits remains at Vinology. Information about the wine tasting events can be found on their website. 49 Henley Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire CV37 6QW 01789 264586 www.vinology.co.uk

A H Hillers Farm Shop asparagus

Enthusiasts would struggle to find a better place to visit than Hillers Farm Shop. As well as having a huge selection of locally grown fruit and vegetables, you’ll find this season’s top quality, freshly picked asparagus. Grown within a mile of their shop and harvested daily, it’s a glowing endorsement for the strength of local business. With the season lasting for just eight weeks, a trip to Hillers Farm Shop is a must for anyone who loves those deep green spears. Dunnington Heath Farm, Alcester, Warwickshire B49 5PD 01789 772771

www.hillers.co.uk

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HEART OF THE KITCHEN The Shipston Bakery and Café Lucinda Bunn

hipston’s Bakery and Café provides the perfect rest stop in-between shopping and exploring the busy market town. With fresh cakes baked daily and traditional artisan bread to pick up every day, husband and wife team, Sharon and Karl Peacock, are keeping locals and visitors happy with light bites and sweet treats. Sharon’s signature carrot cake is making its mark on Shipston’s beautiful Sheep Street and the lunch menu is proving more popular than ever. A slice of lemon drizzle, a rock bun or a Bakewell tart, this is traditional English baking at its best. Hot and cold food is available to eat in or take away. Classic toasted sandwiches, jacket potatoes and quiches make up the lunch specials, with soup in the cooler months and salad boxes all year round. Customers passing through head to the Shipston Bakery for breakfast too. Using quality ingredients, locally sourced where possible, there’s variations on a full English or healthier options such as granola with Greek yoghurt, honey and banana. Every menu option is made to order by the team who do their best to accommodate individual tastes and dietary specific requirements – there’s the children’s menu to choose from too.

The Shipston Café also stocks a range of whole foods, healthy brands including Biona, Free From, Doves Farm and Orgran and new dietary-specific products; think gluten-free biscuits, herbal and fruit tea infusions as well as on trend ingredients like chia seeds and Swedish black spaghetti. The Shipston Bakery team is relaxed and friendly; they’re happy to guide you on the healthy brands on the shelves while you sip on Italian coffee. Light, refreshing and modern, the Shipston Café is a healthy haven for those wanting light savoury bites, homemade cakes and bakery classics. If you’re in Shipston, it’s a must. 14 Sheep Street Shipston-on-Stour Warwickshire CV36 4AF 01608 661563 www.shipston-bakery-and-cafe.co.uk

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THE HATTERY

f you need a hat for a special occasion then visit the Hattery for a wide variety of styles from contemporary to traditional and also a new vintage range. You will find ready-to-wear hats but why not have a consultation and have a hat created just for you to compliment your style and outfit? A special occasion deserves a special hat.

Pat, Rita and Sue have been passionate about hats for many years and since completing their City & Guilds in Millinery have been working together from the Jinney Ring Craft Centre for six years. Using sinamay, straw and felt they love to create original and individual hats of high quality at affordable prices. So visit any Friday between 10.30 and 4.00pm. The Hattery The Jinney Ring Craft Centre Hanbury Nr Bromsgrove B60 4BU 01564 703355

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BEAUTIFUL HAIR, PERSONAL SERVICE

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tephanieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s salon, in Granville Court, celebrates the traditional salon experience, with a wellestablished clientele appreciating the personal service. Stephanieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s is where you will be greeted with a warm welcome and have your hair beautifully styled and leave the salon feeling uplifted and refreshed. The salon specialises in Matrix and Wella hair products, which Stephanie says represent tried and trusted brands with years of innovative creations.

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Have your hair styled in our relaxed professional salon, where you can enjoy a personal service with our friendly team.

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SHIPSTON-ON-STOUR A country retreat Hannah Griffiths

itting peacefully along the river Stour is the idyllic market town of Shipston. With independent retailers lining the cobble streets, a vibrant and thriving community and beautiful architecture, this historical and picturesque town is the perfect destination for a day out this spring.

Treat yourself Home to a multitude of independent retailers a visit to Shipston is a prime opportunity to treat yourself to a little something special. Dice Boutique is a stunning new Ladies’ Boutique stocking a fantastic selection of on trend fashion wear including dresses, jackets, jeans, scarves, accessories and much more. Whether it is a wedding outfit or a casual look you are after, Dice is the perfect place to look. Complete with a relaxing and inviting environment the friendly staff are on hand to assist and advise with all your fashion needs. Dice will also be open on the day of the Wool Fair providing nibbles and fizz for their customers.

A new look isn’t complete without a fresh hairstyle. With a well-established clientele frequenting her Shipston salon, Stephanie’s is the destination for a personal, welcoming and professional experience. The salon specialises in Matrix and Wella hair products, which Stephanie says represent tried and trusted brands with years of innovative creations. Nestled in the heart of Granville Court, this quaint, friendly and relaxing unisex salon is the answer to all you hair needs.

Put your feet up When it’s time to relax and recharge your batteries call into the Shipston Bakery. This charming café serves up a delectable choice of homemade cakes, light bites and beverages. From Sharon’s famous homemade carrot cake, to rock buns, cherry bakewells, mouth-watering meringues and much more there’s something to suit any taste; you can also take advantage of the take-out service if you fancy something for later.

A little reminder It’s always nice to have a reminder of a nice day out and what better way than to pick up something for your home.

www.edgemagazine.org If collectables are your thing pop in to the Lavender Basket where youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find an extensive selection of interior solutions. From reclaimed furniture to modern pieces of art thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something to suit each individual requirement. For your convenience, the Lavender Basket also offers a delivery service that is available to customers based within a ten mile radius of the local area.

The Lavender Basket

Further down the road youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find the Richard Harvey Collection where the team ensure that â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;whatever your taste, the Richard Harvey Collection is sure to inspire youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. With an impressive stockroom boasting Mango wood furniture, handmade British sofas, armchairs, wall art, lighting and great gift ideas, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be hard pressed to leave empty handed.

Stay the night The tranquil and picturesque Shipston-on-Stour makes for a perfect getaway, even just for one night. The George Hotel is a prime spot for all your sleeping, eating and meeting needs. Situated on the High Street, the George Hotel boasts an impressive 16 contemporary bedrooms all named after favourite foods. Each room is equipped with a king-sized bed, hairdryers, flat screen TV, tea, coffee and hot chocolate making facilities, a CD/DVD player, water and an iPod dock. The George Hotel has a number of special offers throughout the year, all of which can be found via their website at www.georgehotelshipston.com

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What makes Shipston special? Shipston is a transition town; a community-led response to the pressures of climate change and fossil fuel depletion. The townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual activities include harvest fairs, tree planting, creating outdoor play areas, and encouraging the use of local shops. The strength of independence has so far helped the town avoid the domination of national chains but some residents fear that the character of the town would change forever if a national supermarket proved successful in its aim to move in. For now, though, the town, the united community and the support of local trade retains Shipstonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very special atmosphere.

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A WOOLLY WONDER Shipston-on-Stour’s Wool Fair 2014 Hannah Griffiths

his May Bank Holiday, escape the hustle and bustle of a busy city centre and bask in the idyllic surroundings of the Shipston Wool Fair.

With a rich heritage and a history of established roots in the sheep and wool industries, this lively market town, on the edge of the Cotswolds, plays perfect host to the annual festival. The name ‘Shipston’ comes from the old ‘sheep wash town’, as it was here, in the river Stour, that farmers from the surrounding hills would drive their sheep to be washed for shearing. A sheep and wool fair was held every year leading up to 19th century, but the tradition died out until 2009, when it was revived for the first time in 150 years by the late Mayor, Angela Noyce. It was so successful that a group of volunteers have continued to run the event every year since. Now entering its sixth year, the Wool Fair 2014 is set to be bigger, better and woollier than ever. Offering a multitude of family friendly activities this year’s festival is sure to please the entire family. The sheep exhibition is renowned for being the focal point of the fair and this year will be no different with 20 different breeds already set to visit for the day. The white woolly wonders will be centre stage in the market square, while experts will be on hand to lead the sheep around a mini show ring; sharing fascinating facts about each breed. Alongside the exhibition of sheep, Alan Scorer will be holding live sheep shearing demonstrations throughout the day; demonstrating different shearing systems and

the ever popular ‘how long does it take to shear a sheep?’ competition. The Stratford-upon-Avon Guild of Weavers, spinners and dyers will be in town for the day sharing their expertise with the opportunity for you to try your hand at spinning, knitting, weaving and felting. Children will also have the opportunity to make friendship bracelets and learn how to knit using fat needles. The fair will also showcase the ‘Shipston Tapestry’, a community project created by local residents in the tradition of the medieval Barcheston Tapestries. Visitors will have the opportunity to step inside a modern day ‘shepherd’s hut’ as well as the chance to browse and purchase a number of quality local goods from the multitude of stalls, offering tempting treats for everyone. Many of the town’s businesses will also be open during the Bank Holiday event with some transforming their window displays to coincide with the event. The Shipston Wool Fair will be celebrating all that Shipston has to offer. From eateries, delicatessens, to ladies fashion boutiques, florists and furniture stores, Shipston has it all. This year’s festival will also coincide with the opening of the Shipston Heritage Centre a community led-project to provide visitors and local people with an overview of the history and significance of the wool industry and sheep farming to the area. For more information pop down to the festival to see for yourself what Shipston has to offer. www.shipstonwoolfair.org

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ENCHANTING HEUCHERAS At Wagonhouse Gardens Karl Strawbridge

he Heuchera is a plant for all seasons. Heucheras, which are more commonly known as coral bells, have over the last few years quite simply undergone a revolution and there are now literally hundreds of varieties of Heucheras, mainly bred in North America. They have become very fashionable and it’s so easy to see why, they are non-deciduous and ideal for those winter displays when there is little else colourful or interesting in the garden. In May, with the shift of interest from foliage to flower, with the small upright dainty frothy flowers of the Heuchera, they have become a firm favourite for gardeners and garden designers and they regularly feature in show gardens at Chelsea. Heucheras are equally used by florists with both the flowers and the foliage being used as they have so many astonishingly magical colours from vibrant hot orange, squashed raspberries, shimmering silvers and marbled leaves through to the black and acidic lime greens. With such a wide colour range it’s little wonder why the Heuchera has become so popular. Relatively disease free, they pose little threat in the garden and require no special treatments; just plant and leave.

After flowering, deadhead and top dress and you will be rewarded with the fresh new leaves that keep them so interesting. They prefer a light soil and don’t particularly thrive so well on heavy clay. Along with primulas, Heucheras can be attacked by the vine weevil larvae who adore their roots so if this is likely to be a problem in your garden then use a treatment to control them. Heucheras are seldom found appetising to slugs and snails. Wagonhouse Gardens at the Jinney Ring Craft Centre stocks a good selection of these versatile perennials right through till the autumn. Why have dull corners when you can enjoy these bright beauties? The Jinney Ring Hanbury Road Hanbury Bromsgrove Worcestershire B60 4BU 01527 821 421 www.wagonhousegardens.co.uk

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BLOOMING MARVELLOUS Leamington garden heads to Chelsea

oyal Leamington Spa is steeped in horticulture; a town renowned for its award-winning parks and gardens.

Debbie Cooke, left, and Sarah Horne, right.

And in the year that its Pump Room Gardens celebrate two centuries of delighting residents and visitors alike, history is in the making with the town achieving the ultimate coup in the gardening world. A garden inspired by the town itself, and its rich association with floral displays, has made it into this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show alongside the big cities, nations and likes of Alan Titchmarsh who are among the chosen exhibitors. For local designers Sarah Horne and Debbie Cooke, months of planning and planting will come to fruition on Tuesday 20th May, when the garden is unveiled in the Great Pavilion to the first of tens of thousands of visitors flocking to the five-day show. It is the first time that Sarah and Debbie have joined forces to combine their respective talents of floristry and garden design which have individually won them a clutch of RHS medals, including three golds at Chelsea for Sarah. Their design, reaching four metres in height and six metres in diameter, captures the essence of the Regency town and reflects its heritage and different landscapes from its parklands to its river. The circular enclosure and canopy is reminiscent of the recently-restored Linden Arches in the Pump Room Gardens with a trio of intricately-designed floral pods hanging from the roof above a table and candelabra water feature.

A drawing of the exhibit designed by Sarah Horne and Debbie Cooke.

And the creation has captured the imagination of the town with BID Leamington, the not-for-profit business led partnership that is managing the ambitious Chelsea project, harnessing the groundswell of support from local individuals and businesses to make it happen. Time, expertise, donations and help have come in from all quarters, and supporters have been signing up to become a Blooming Buddy and follow the garden’s progress to Chelsea. But the dream that started out in a sketchpad doesn’t end in the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea. BID Leamington is hoping to revive the Leamington Flower Show which was a hugely popular annual event that ran for over 30 years. The aim is for it to come back as the Leamington Flower Festival next year so that the town can continue to celebrate their love of flora. Along with the garden, they are hoping to bring home a gold medal from Chelsea which is the ultimate prize and would top off Leamington being a Heart of England in Bloom gold winner for the last three years.

Sarah Horne is pictured being filmed by Alan Green, from GG Productions, who is helping to document the Chelsea story by making a film of the project.

To find out more visit www.bloomingleamington.com or follow @BloomingLeam on Twitter.

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See what’s new in...

Revisit your favourites and also see what’s new in Royal Leamington Spa this Spring. There’s a fantastic selection of new and interesting stores in the town centre, ideal for all your favourite items; from fashion and food to beauty, gifts, health and home services. Take a stroll around town to reveal a wealth of fabulous surprises in Royal Leamington Spa.

Visit www.royal-leamington-spa.co.uk Follow us on: 41

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FLORAL FANCIES Feminine fragrances for spring Rebecca Burden

loral notes are some of the most popular in perfumery as they’re totally versatile; they can be built up from the soft, fresh sweeties all the way down to the deeper more sumptuous scents.

Diorissimo by Dior (100ml £78.50) is a classic perfume that’s clean and fresh. Created in the 1950s, this formula is one of the oldest continuing lines for Dior with top notes of lily-of-the-valley and ylang ylang combined with amaryllis and jasmine. It’s heritage and elegance at its finest.

A true great of the flora perfection is Stella by Stella McCartney (100ml £69). This stunning perfume is as luxurious as it is beautiful; a blend of mandarin, amber, peony and rose. Its greatness lies in its sophistication and in the intensely delicate scent that lingers with you all day long. It’s a definite showstopper all year round as that base amber note really intensifies when layered and becomes a very sensual evening scent.

Marni Rose by Marni (100ml £85) is the newest contender in the floral fragrance market and this list. It’s only the second scent released from the brand and is more spicy and dark than its earlier counterpart. It’s definitely an evening scent feeling both hot and cool in one vibrant sensual hit. This is an unusual combination of blackcurrant, bitter almond, raspberry, nanah mint, Bulgarian rose, white musk, vanilla and cedar.

Daisy by Marc Jacobs (100ml £63) is fun and feminine. Combining gardenia, violet and jasmine with a splash of strawberry and vanilla this is a really playful perfume that will remind you of days out in beautiful weather. It’s immensely light and girly which makes it a perfect daytime.

Flower by Kenzo (100ml £75) is cool but ageless. It’s a pure floral scent from start to finish and is more immediately intense on the nose than others in this list. With top notes of Bulgarian rose, wild hawthorn and palma violets blended with heady white musk, this perfume offering is 100% flirty and can be worn through spring and summer to lift the senses.

*Prices correct at time of writing www.bbyb.co.uk / belovedburden@gmail.com

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HAIR HAVEN Saks Hair and Beauty, Kenilworth

aks, the UK’s leading hair and beauty salon group, has launched a salon in Kenilworth.

The salon, at 26 Warwick Road, is owned by James Maher, from Kent, who has been hairdressing for 11 years and trained at Daniel Galvin in Mayfair. James also worked for another industry giant, Jo Hansford, and has coiffed the hair of a number of high profile celebrities, including Liz Hurley, Sophie Dahl, Carol Vorderman and Kelly Brook. James has worked as a hairdresser on X Factor, where he styled Leona Lewis’ hair, for Britain’s Next Top Model and at London Fashion Week. He’s done shoots for a range of leading magazines and newspapers, including Tatler, Vogue, Elle, the Mirror, Daily Mail and OK! While at Jo Hansford, James was head hunted by Daniel Galvin’s son to manage a new salon in Knightsbridge, before heading to Kenilworth with his wife and young family, to be closer to relatives, where he worked for 3 years at Nicky Clarke. James says: “There are so many hair franchising companies out there now but I chose to join the Saks brand because I feel their ethos is the same as mine. Saks believes in beautiful hair and offering a bespoke service, as do I. The seasonal looks they bring out are creative, but also genuinely wearable – whereas many other franchised companies produce looks that are incredibly technical but not overly beautiful.” “I don’t like pretentious salons, I like diversity in my clientele and ultimately I love people. Saks is a chilled out, ‘open to everyone’ type of business and that’s how it should be.” James is heading up the new Saks Kenilworth salon with an exceptional team of stylists, colourists and assistants, offering a wide range of first class hairdressing services.

Sam Fowle has worked at the top salons around the Leamington and Warwick areas and joins the team with 10 years’ hairdressing experience. Her work has featured in various local magazines and newspapers and she was a finalist at the L’Oréal Colour Trophy 2011 – one of the most prestigious hairdressing awards. Cameron Clews has almost 30 years experience in hairdressing. He started his training in Leamington and has since worked in Miami and then joined Vidal Sasoon in London. Whilst at Vidal Sasoon he became assistant to the Colour Director and then travelled to Asia with the art team. He has worked with celebrities from the fashion, film and pop worlds and also worked at London Fashion Week. Cameron then spent 12 years at Saks Aberdeen where he was instrumental in their winning of Saks Salon of the Year nine times. He has also been a finalist several times in the L’Oréal Colour Trophy. In addition to offering cutting and colouring services for women and men, the salon will stock a wide range of professional hair products from exclusive ranges including Kérastase, Redken and L’Oréal Professionnel. 26 Warwick Road Kenilworth CV8 1HE 01926 853497 www.saks.co.uk

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PREMIDENT - DENTAL IMPLANTS An investment in improved confidence and self-esteem Christopher Lee, Principle Dentist and Cosmetic Dental Expert

osing a tooth can be a traumatic experience, affecting almost every part of your life, from being unable to eat properly to shying away from smiling. Those who lose a tooth can feel trapped, too embarrassed to lead a normal social health, too worried of the expense that comes with having dental implants, or even unaware of the treatments available. Painless, natural and lasting, dental implants are the perfect solution for people who have lost a tooth or teeth, providing a significant boost to your confidence and selfesteem and allowing you to live a happy life once again. Using state-of-the-art computer technology combined with years of skilled practice, our implant dentists help ensure our patients receive a superior and proven implant service. Implants are permanent, easy to fix and colour-matched to blend in with the natural colour of your teeth, giving you a healthy and natural looking smile. We are passionate about dental implants and are proud of how many satisfied dental implant patients we have in Coventry and the surrounding areas. While dentures can be fitted, they lack the comfort and feel of implants, and bridging results in the damage of the teeth next to the gap. Dental implants, on the other hand, create a stable relationship between the jaw bone and the screw, which will increase over time as the bone grows into the implant surface. They might not be a cheap option, but the benefits of dental implants are so great that they represent a fantastic investment into your quality of life. Your smile and overall oral health are vital to your self-confidence, so you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to cut corners on them. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why we offer flexible and affordable payment plans that we can tailor for your individual needs.

Full mouth dental restoration There are many reasons why people may need a full reconstruction. Some of our patients have had accidents or illnesses which have led to broken, worn and/or multiple missing teeth, in which case a full mouth reconstruction may be required. At Premident we have the skill and experience to embrace the benefits of modern dentistry to create full mouth reconstructions that look good, function correctly, and are healthy and lasting. Our ultra-modern computer aided approach allows us to transform the lives of patients that need comprehensive support. The excitement to positively contribute to the lives of our patients is what drives our passion for innovation and excellence. If you are looking for dental implants in Coventry, give us a call now on 024 76 231 814 and speak to one of our friendly receptionists for a convenient appointment, or head to www.premident.co.uk

EdgeMagazine

REGAIN THAT YOUTHFUL GLOW At Rosmetics

Hannah Griffiths

he quest to keep your skin youthful is not always an easy one. Sometimes you need a helping hand. And thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s where Rosmetics comes in. This month, Edgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Helen Archer popped into the Rosmetics skin clinic in Bromsgrove to see how she might benefit from the amazing treatments. On the surface, Helenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s skin is clean, free from damage and showing minimal signs of ageing. But the upper layers of skin only tell half the story. After a detailed skin analysis, using the latest cutting edge technology, a number of key areas were highlighted and a course of treatment established to rewind the clock and refresh her skin. Helenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s facial diagnosis highlighted areas of dehydration under her lower eye lids, an oily T-zone and a minimal amount of sun damage. Medial Aesthetic Practitioner Ros prescribed a VI peel and a course of skin care to help correct all three areas. With its short downtime of only 7 days the VI peel is an ideal treatment for anyone. Safe for both the upper and lower lids and for all skin types, from white to Asian and Afro-Caribbean, the graded

peels offer relief to those suffering from acne, severe sun damage and melasma. Ros recommends a VI peel at least once to twice every year for rejuvenation, to prevent anti-ageing and to help maintain the skin. Following the consultation and the VI peel Ros prescribes a course of VI skincare to complement the work of the treatment. The prescription-only skincare includes a combination of cleansers, moisturises, vitamin C creams, serums, firming lotions and sun protection. When used in partnership with your daily skin care routine the VI products give outstanding results. Helen has already noticed an improvement to her skin and confidence and now happily recommends the treatments of Ros and her practice. For more information call in to the clinic today and discuss your skincare needs with Ros. 53 Worcester Road Bromsgrove B61 7DN 08455 050601

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MIRROR MIRROR

Selfridges’ new Beauty Hall is fairest of them all

elfridges Birmingham is unveiling the Midland’s biggest and most comprehensive beauty hall, with an unrivalled selection of luxurious brands, treatments and services, making for a truly unique shopping experience. Launching on 12th May, the Beauty Hall on Level 3 has been transformed to house the biggest and most soughtafter names in beauty, with Selfridges attracting some of the world’s brightest brands. The makeover sees the expansion of Beauty, one of the most visited departments, with exclusive counters, fragrances and the first Beauty Workshop outside of London. The unveiling of the Beauty Hall coincides with the launch of the Beauty Project in-store, which is the biggest celebration of beauty in Selfridges’ history. The destination for all things beauty, the new space brings A-list makeup artist Charlotte Tilbury’s new beauty collection to the city along with exclusive TOM FORD colour and Chanel Espace counters. Other beauty counters only found at the store include Giorgio Armani, Illamasqua, Jo Malone, Kiehl’s, Dermalogica, Laura Mercier, NARS, Shu Uemera and Sisley. The new Beauty Hall also introduces leading Asian beauty brands RMK and SUQQU to its line-up.

Joining its unbeatable fragrance offering are 19 exclusive scents from some of the quirkiest, hottest brands in the fragrance world, including Bella Bellissima, Juliette Has a Gun, Amouage, Maison Francis Kurdijan and Atkinsons. The launch of the Beauty Workshop, an area that will house some of the best beauty experiences in the business, will see a range of services available in-store for the first time, including treatments from skincare experts EOS and Dermalogica, an in-house nail bar and St Tropez Skin Finishing Studio - making for the ultimate one-stop beauty shop. Vicki Cain, general manager of Selfridges Birmingham, said: “We are proud to be synonymous with Birmingham’s continued transformation into a worldclass city and intend to retain our reputation as the premier shopping destination. “Our new Beauty Hall will boast brands that no other store in the region will carry. This, combined with an expanded hair, beauty and skin treatment offering, puts Selfridges well and truly on the map as the most attractive beauty venue in the Midlands.”

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FAIRTRADE IS MORE THAN SKIN DEEP Blue Lemon opens at Hatton Shopping Village

reshly handmade and mainly organic beauty products are going on sale at Hatton Shopping Village, near Warwick, with the opening of The Blue Lemon Skincare Company. The expanding company, which started as a ‘kitchen table enterprise’ in Kings Norton, Birmingham, researched its move to Hatton for two years before opening the shop. For owner Jenny Muschner, who also has a shop in Hanbury, Worcestershire, the expansion has been made possible by more women wanting to put only natural products on their skin. Jenny, who five years ago started making soaps as a hobby with husband Jorg, said: ‘Our handmade soaps, creams, balms and butters are very, very different to high street cosmetics. We use Shea Butter as the base ingredient for all our creams, balms and butters. It melts at skin temperature, absorbs completely and is packed with natural Vitamins A & E. Ours is hand-produced by a women’s’ co-operative in Ghana. It is fairly traded,

unrefined and organic. Our trade gives women the opportunity to support themselves and educate their children.’ The Blue Lemon range includes creams, foot balm, exfoliating face wash, and men’s shaving soaps and after shave balm, salt scrubs, foot soaks and cuticle oil. Hatton Shopping Village, home to many independent shopkeepers offering an eclectic shopping experience, from antiques and handmade jewellery, to homewares and clothing, is located at Hatton Country World, just off the A4177 between Warwick and Solihull. For further information call 01926 843411 or visit www.hattonworld.com.

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BRIGHTEN UP YOUR HOME With Pears Home Improvements

f your home is in need of a facelift or youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking to add space to your property then look no further than Pears Home Improvements; a leading home improvement company operating throughout Worcestershire and the surrounding area.

With over 55 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience in the window, door and conservatory market, Pears Home Improvements is the perfect choice for anyone thinking of investing in double-glazing or a conservatory. But donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just stop there. Pears Home Improvements covers a vast product range from windows and doors to conservatories and orangeries, sunrooms, garage doors, fascias, soffits and guttering, giving you everything you need under one roof. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re happy with your existing windows and doors but theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in need of repair or maintenance, Pears Home Improvements are happy to help. The team offers a complete repair and maintenance service to existing windows, doors, conservatories and conservatory roofs that have been installed by other companies who are either no longer trading or are outside of any guarantee issued. To find out more about what Pears can do for you call into their showroom today. Conveniently located in Worcester city centre, with free car parking and easy access, the team is on-hand to provide expert advice from a name you can trust. Unit 19 Worcester Trade Park Sherriff Street Worcester WR4 9AB 01905 724085 www.pearshomeimprovements.co.uk

BRIGHTEN UP

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EdgeMagazine

HEARING LIKE A DREAM Coventry and Leamington Hearing Centre

f you are an experienced hearing aid listener you will hear the difference straight away. Sounds seem richer more detailed and more well-rounded. You will start to take more pleasure in the world of sound around you. If the Dream hearing aid is your first experience, get ready to start hearing sounds the way you remember them. Whether the model chosen is the “out of sight” allin-the-ear, or the miniature “receiver in canal” style, the comfort and sound enjoyment are supreme. “Now my telephone, TV and hi-fi can be heard directly in my hearing aid.” – A happy customer In addition to the wonderful new sound pleasure, Dream listeners can now enjoy communication advantages they’ve never before experienced. Telephone signals can be received wirelessly directly into the hearing aid. TV and hi-fi reception can be heard with beautiful quality and clarity, arriving invisibly into the ear. The Coventry and Leamington Hearing Centres are not newcomers to the developing field of hearing help. The Leamington Centre opened its doors in 1985 (almost 30 years ago) whilst the Station Square, Coventry practice is

witnessing the second Coventry Railway Station revision in its 65 year history. Both Deborah and Michael have hands on experience of hearing impairment and conduct the whole range of hearing aid services on a full-time basis. Michael says, “We provide 24/7 service to clients and include ear syringing, ear canal photography, audiometry, ear impressing and moulding for deep canal fittings every day.” You can visit the centre through their website www.leamingtonhearingcentre.co.uk, call free on 0800 298 1573 or email enquiries@clhcltd.co.uk. A free hearing appraisal and where desired, a free trial of a magnificent hearing solution of your choice, will help put the world into focus. 2 Park House Station Square Coventry CV1 2FL 40 Warwick Street Leamington Spa CV32 5JS www.clhcltd.co.uk

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EdgeMagazine

HYDROBLAST Restoration for all surfaces

ydroblast Surface Restoration Ltd has been revolutionising the cleaning market for 18 months. Based in the heart of England but with a mobile service, the Hydroblast team travels across the UK to reach their customers. Hydroblast is proud of its ‘any surface, anytime, anywhere’ guarantee, leaving each customer 100% satisfied.

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Having invested in the latest state of the art high temperature cleaning equipment, Hydroblast is set apart from its competitors. Cleaning at up to 160˚C means the team can clean using steam rather than pressure where required, ensuring there is no damage to the surface being cleaned. So your surface isn’t cracked or chipped and all weeds and bacteria will be removed. As a restoration company, Hydroblast cover the entire restoration project from start to finish. With Hydroblast you have the best technology at the most affordable price. Hydroblast can meet all your restoration needs, from industrial cleaning, monument cleaning and new build cleans to shop fronts and sign cleaning. For a free demo or quotation, check out the website or give the Hydroblast team a call.

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EdgeMagazine

LET’S GO Hannah Griffiths

This month, to stop your May turning into madness we’ve found some of the best locations for activities, performances and fun family-filled days out across the counties. So pack your bags, buckle up and let’s go. A cultured visit… …To the Birmingham Rep Circles is a vivid and compelling new play at Birmingham Repertory Theatre from 9 to 24 June. Circling the outskirts of Birmingham on the Number 11 bus, an unusual friendship develops between two teenagers. Meanwhile a mother observes her daughter’s attempt to leave a violent relationship. Circles is the new play from Rachel De-lalay who recently won the Most Promising Playwright award at the Evening Standard Theatre Awards. For tickets visit the website. Broad Street, Birmingham B1 2EP 0121 236 4455 www.birmingham-rep.co.uk

…To see the CBSO With a full-length opera, music of Haydn and Mozart, and the ever popular Fright Night Classics, May 2014 with the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra will offer the usual mix of music from the worldrenowned orchestra. The CBSO’s critically acclaimed Music Director Andris Nelsons, will lead the 83-piece orchestra in a range of classics including the highlight of the current season, Richard Strauss’s sweet and sensual opera Der Rosenkavalier. CBSO Centre, Berkley Street, Birmingham B1 2LF 0121 616 6500 www.cbso.co.uk

A day at the races This May, join in the fun at the races. On 5th May Warwick Racecourse hosts their very own Mad Hatters Tea Party; complete with 7 races and fun activities for the kids, it’s a day out for all the family. On the 10th May, pull on your dancing shoes and head to the racecourse for 70’s night, where an amazing 70’s tribute band will be playing live after six twilight races and on the 20th May the racecourse will also be celebrating Warwick’s 1100th Birthday with a Warwick Evening Raceday. Warwick Racecourse, Hampton Street, Warwick CV34 6HN 01926 405 560

www.warwickracecourse.co.uk

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Shop till to you drop Nestled in the heart of the picturesque village of Hanbury is the Jinney Ring Craft Centre. This is a true craft centre where you will find talented maker/designers selling their hand made wares, ideal for a unique gift for a loved one or just a fascinating day out watching the amazing skills. Crafts include Pottery; woodwork; glass; painting; chocolate and much more. The Centre is also home to a small plant studio as well as a pond full of very friendly ducks! There is something for everyone here, including scrumptious homemade cakes. Jinney Ring Craft Centre Limited, Hanbury Road, Hanbury, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire B60 4BU 01527 821 272 www.jinneyring.co.uk

One for the adults Deep in the heart of the Herefordshire countryside, in the old village of Much Marcle, is Westons Cider Mill. Open 7 days a week, visitors of all ages are invited to discover the secrets of traditional cider making by joining one of the daily guided mill tours to find out how Stowford Press, Old Rosie and all your other favourite Westons ciders are made. The Bounds, Much Marcle, Ledbury, Herefordshire HR8 2NQ 01531 660108 www.westons-cider.co.uk

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Cider Shop and Tours Westons Cider has been making cider in the Herefordshire village of Much Marcle, since 1880. Join a tour and go behind the scenes to discover how your favourite cider is produced.

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• Cider Mill Tours – 11.00am, 12.30pm, 2.30pm and 3.30pm • Cider Shop and FREE Tasting (over 18’s only) • Scrumpy House Restaurant and Bottle Museum Tea Room • Located on the A449 between Ledbury and Ross-on-Wye • Open 7 days a week

Special Events throughout the Year see website for details

12 working craft units, gardens, restaurant, gifts – Open Daily

Free Admission and Parking

tel: 01527 821272 jinneyring.co.uk

Hanbury, between Droitwich and Bromsgrove, Worcestershire B60 4BU

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TAKING FLIGHT

We review Flight Simulators Midlands Michael Abu-Zalaf

hen Captain Chris Rigby retired from operational flying two years ago, he hit on the idea of buying and operating a flight simulator so everyone can experience life as a pilot. But it’s not as easy as you might think. This month, our Editor Michael went along to pilot a virtual flight with Chris and his team. With 40 years experience with airlines such as British Airways and easyJet, and over 20,000 flight hours under his wings, Chris set up Flight Simulators Midlands. Chris, who regularly lectures about aviation on cruise ships around the world, and runs fear of flying courses, located a real motion simulator, a Boeing 737-800 and shipped it to Coventry Airport in May 2 years ago. Since then, thousands of wannabe pilots have tested their metal in the pressure-filled equipment and the company have added a Boeing 747-400 and an Airbus A320 to its fleet. It was my first experience in the cockpit and I didn’t know what to expect. I fly quite frequently and usually on long haul flights visiting my family. I’m definitely intrigued by aviation but when it comes to actually piloting a Boeing 737, like most of us, I had no idea what I was doing. But Chris and his team guide you through the take-off and landing. It’s not like driving a car, nor is it like playing a computer game; although it’s entirely virtual, it feels very real. We ‘flew’ to Hong Kong on this flight, taking off from Heathrow and gliding over all the familiar landmarks, a stark contrast to the cityscape of Hong Kong’s high-rises. The flying technique involves a lot of concentration; one false move can set off alarms and make it difficult to regain control. It’s all about staying at the right altitude and flying to fixed points on the screen in front of you. It’s a great deal of fun and the simulator gives you all the key skills to fly a jet. Situated in the hanger of the Coventry Aeroplane Club, each experience begins with a briefing on how modern aircraft works. You then make your way past the real aircraft before boarding the simulator of your choice. You’re seated and strapped in before you choose from different airports worldwide to fly to. With Father’s Day round the corner, any aviation enthusiasts or would be pilots will love this opportunity to take to the skies. For more information on virtual flights, fear of flying courses and the range of simulators at Flight Simulators Midlands, check out the website.

Coventry Airport Coventry Aeroclub Rowley Road CV3 4FR 08485 747 737 www.flyfsm.co.uk

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A TREE TOP ADVENTURE The Edge team Go Ape Lucinda Bunn

eing outdoors in the fresh air and exploring the forest are definitely appealing to most of us. Dangling 40 feet up in the trees? Not so much. But the Edge team are up for anything. So off we went, trussed up in our harnesses to face the Go Ape challenge. The training is fun; everyone’s giddy with excitement or quiet with trepidation. The Go Ape instructors are full of energy as they talk you through this carabiner and that carabiner, with the most important instruction being ‘always stay attached to the safety wires’. It seems complicated at first but you soon get the hang of it. You’re thrown straight into the deep end with rope ladders, tunnels and tight-rope crossings. With 5 sections making up the full treetop adventure, they get progressively more challenging as you go but you can opt out at any point, with alternative routes to cut out the really hairy bits. The zip wires and Tarzan swings proved the most nerve-racking for most of us. The thought of stepping off the platform into thin air will have you contemplating making your excuses and easing yourself back down the rope ladder. It’s a leap of faith, it really is. But once you’ve learned to trust the harness, once you’ve realised that you’re not going to plummet to the forest floor, you can have some fun. It’s totally exhilarating. What’s great about Go Ape is that it can be an individual experience as much as a team-bonding exercise. You don’t realise how much you depend on those around you until you’re faced with a 40 foot drop. Those final words of encouragement can make all the difference between jungle hero and jungle zero. There’s varying ages in our group, some of us more scared of heights than others, but in the trees those differences dissolve as we help each other through each crossing and gear each other up for the wind-in-yourface zip wires. Anyone can take part in Go Ape, with the Tree Top Junior course for under 10s too. You don’t need to be a fitness fanatic. Each part involves some upper body strength, balance and a degree of physical fitness – if you can climb a rope ladder, you should be just fine. The Go Ape instructors are also on hand to help you out if your knees start knocking and your arms start trembling. They’re proud to have helped many people face their fear of heights and thrive out of their comfort zone. It’s really confidence boosting to test yourself. And when you come down that final zip wire at the end,

brush the wood chip off your derrière and realise what you’ve achieved, you’ll want to go back and do it all over again.

Call Go Ape on 0843 249 7120 for any queries or book online at: www.goape.co.uk

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EdgeMagazine

Brett Laniosh

More worryingly, I sometimes come across the same brand devotion in schools. We are going to put xxx devices in every classroom, buy every teacher a yyy device or give every pupil their own zzz device. This is the wrong way to begin a journey. When it comes to technology you need to consider where you want to get to before you decide how you are going to get there. For schools, fundamental questions should include how can I inspire young people by promoting creativity and celebrating work? How do I raise standards, improve literacy, numeracy and maximise skill development? How do I develop social skills and help my pupils be safe both in school, at home and beyond? Once the destination has been agreed and shared with everyone in the school it’s time to think about how to get there. Within a school there are many areas which have particular needs. For example an art teacher might wish to promote creative learning through the use of a tablet, whereas a science teacher may need to connect temperature sensors to their device. For a creative writer, inputting lots of text without a keyboard may cause frustration. So if we are going to cater for the vast range of needs

Brett Laniosh works as a school consultant giving independent advice to schools on technology. Follow him on twitter @brettlaniosh, on LinkedIn uk.linkedin. com/in/laniosh/or drop him an email edge@catshill.com

Independent co-education in Worcester for ages 4 to 11

ORNIENSIS VIG

f you were being picked up from a cold station on a rainy Sunday evening, would you turn down the lift because the driver was not in a BMW? It sounds daft doesn’t it, but when it comes to brand loyalty that is often exactly what happens when choosing technology. Some consumers love their brand with a passion that I am sure their partner would appreciate receiving. “I love my Apple/Windows/Android phone and I simply couldn’t use anything else” is something I hear on a daily basis, but I’m not sure that such devotion is healthy.

For parents considering buying technology to help with school work, it is worth speaking to the school and asking if the school provides an online space that children can log into and access tools and software at home. Popular online spaces that provide access to lots of quality software are RM Unify, Learning Gateway and J2Launch. There are lots of examples of other online spaces and schools need to promote them more to children and parents; so ask your school if these are available to your children. As they are cloud based technologies it doesn’t matter what type of technology you use to access them – Windows, Apple, Android, Chromebook or whatever should all work. The important thing is that by giving access to technology to promote learning at home you are giving your child a real lift up by building upon what is happening in school.

IA SCHOLA

Choosing technology in school

Being agnostic in terms of which device to use empowers you as an individual and a leader and that is tremendously important for schools if they are going to empower young people. After all the chances that you are going to be using the same type of hardware in five years time is unlikely.

R EG

BRAND LOYALTY

out there, we simply cannot afford to be hung up on a particular type of device (tablet/laptop/desktop) or even worse, a brand.

‘Small classes, nurturing potential’

Following expansion, extra places are now available in Reception and Year 2 from September 2014 For call for more details: 01905 354906

Confidence in a changing world www.ksw.org.uk

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THE PAPERS OF TONY VEITCH

A novel by Willaim McIlvanney Mike Stafford

n reviewing William McIlvanney, I keep coming back to the same word: ‘peerless.’ Oh yes, Agatha Christie may have sold billions while McIlvanney went out of print, but Dame Agatha’s characterisation is pale compared to the Scotsman’s. Raymond Chandler may have been immortalised by Bogart and have spawned a whole genre of imitators, but his similes and metaphors are cartoonishly shallow compared to those of Kilmarnock’s greatest. The Papers of Tony Veitch is the second in McIlvanney’s Laidlaw trilogy, a series spanning three decades. Laidlaw came first in 1977, The Papers of Tony Veitch followed in 1983. Across the trilogy, eponymous hero DI Jack Laidlaw wrestled with criminality, and with the human condition. Drawing as much from Camus as from Chandler, with Laidlaw McIlvanney created a protagonist who was gritty but urbane, dogged but sensitive, and intelligent but worldly. The book begins with the death of alcoholic vagrant Eck Adamson. As he lays dying, Eck calls for Laidlaw to attend his bedside. Eck provides Laidlaw with a clue to both the murder of a gangland thug and the disappearance of a young student, Tony Veitch. Laidlaw’s subsequent investigation takes him through all sections of Glaswegian society, from the aristocracy to the homeless, from gang enforcers to working families.

The most striking thing about ‘Papers’ is the style. The text is filled metaphors and similes, each one going beyond mere imagery, to make a wider point. McIlvanney’s homeless are “urban Bedouin.” In two words, McIlvanney evokes itinerant Arabs, contrasting the romantic image of wandering desert dwellers with the traditional view of the homeless as reeking social detritus. In a single phrase, he offers a dignity so rarely offered to the homeless. For all this, McIlvanney rejects dry intellectualism. For all the profundity in his writing, all the social commentary and all the searching of the Glaswegian soul, McIlvanney is a champion of human experience. Whenever conversation turns to pure theory or to academia, Laidlaw is on hand to bring the conversation back to reality. The Papers of Tony Veitch is a magnificent book. Rich in language, content and character, it has more to say about the human condition than the work of potentially any other crime writer. Scarcely a paragraph goes by without a moment of total literary perfection passing. It is a true work of art, that rare breed of novel that brings sadness with the turn of the final page.

As might be expected, given his creator’s unshakeable left-wing principles, Laidlaw is a crusader for social as well as legal justice. Who else would care to investigate the death of Eck Adamson? After all, as another character observes, killing Eck would have been “like bombing a grave.” For Laidlaw though, either everyone counts or no-one does. Eck’s death is investigated because he was a man. He lived, was loved, had a family, albeit estranged. His social status is insignificant, his humanity is all. All McIlvanney’s characters are richly drawn, even passersby and voices in the street. During a confrontation on a balcony between enforcers, the unspeaking family inside the flat are examined, in all their quiet dignity. Bit part players in The Papers of Tony Veitch are richer than protagonists in the work of lesser writers. They are also rewardingly complex. Gangland thugs aren’t merely sociopaths; some are calculating, others are pretenders, a rare few are “pure, 100% proof violence.”

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ACQUIRING COMMERCIAL PROPERTY? Get the right advice

cquiring the right commercial premises can be one of the most crucial decisions a business can make. Whether it’s a large manufacturing facility or a small office suite, the right premises can ensure the success of a business. The wrong premises, on the other hand, can turn out to be a millstone around the organisation’s neck. Which is why, according to John Dillon, of leading Worcestershire property consultancy GJS Dillon, it is vital to get the right advice. This means consulting a qualified chartered surveyor before the business acquires (or indeed disposes of) property, and also instructing a specialist commercial property lawyer, such as Lisa Johnson of Thomas Horton LLP. The right advice at the right time can avoid costly mistakes and make a real contribution to business success. Here, John and Lisa give some key advice on how to approach a property disposal or acquisition: What do you need? The first step is to identify exactly what sort of premises you are looking for. Many businesses end up in inappropriate premises because they failed to identify the fundamentals at the earliest stage. Specification, useable floor space, layout, accessibility, loading or parking provision all need to be properly scoped out before the search even begins.

How much will it cost? Working out the budget for a move requires a realistic assessment of all costs involved. Be aware of all additional costs which may apply, such as business rates, insurance and service charges. Get the right advice Ultimately your goal is to relocate to the right premises, achieve best value, meet the required timescale and make the move with the minimum disruption to your business. This means making sure you receive the right advice every step of the way. GJS Dillon can find the correct premises for you, negotiate favourable terms and advise on issues surrounding the move.

It can take time

It is equally important to instruct a reputable commercial property lawyer, and Thomas Horton LLP has specialists that are able to give professional, accurate and timely advice on all commercial property matters.

Moving premises, like many things in business, never happens as quickly as you’d like it to. For this reason it’s important to be realistic about timescales and plan accordingly.

GJS Dillon LLP, with offices in Worcester and Bromsgrove, offers a full range of commercial property consultancy services throughout Worcestershire and the surrounding areas, and along the M5 and A38 corridors.

Vacating may not be straightforward

For further information, contact John Dillon at GJS Dillon on 01527 872525 or 01905 28684.

The ease with which you can vacate your current property needs to be considered. For example, are there lease conditions? What are the notice requirements? Are you liable for dilapidations? All associated costs will have to be factored into the equation. Getting the right premises There may seem to be plenty of commercial property on the market, but you’ll be surprised how little of it will suit your requirements. It’s important to instruct a commercial property consultant who can use their knowledge of what’s available to identify the right property.

Thomas Horton LLP, with offices in Bromsgrove, Worcester and Barnt Green, offers expert legal advice on all commercial property matters as well as a full range of legal services. For further information, contact Lisa Johnson at Thomas Horton LLP on 01527 839401 or email lj@thomashorton.co.uk.

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0MZM _PMV aW]Z J][QVM[[ VMML[ I [XZQVO KTMIV Leading Worcestershire lawyers, Thomas Horton LLP, are offering a low cost legal audit to ensure your business is up-to-date with the latest legislation and to identify ways to reduce business risk and improve your profitability. By carrying out a review of a company’s core documents and internal operations and procedures, we are able to spot potential issues and make recommendations to resolve them quickly. We will look at: s Employment contracts, staff handbooks and policies – employment law is fast changing s Your standard terms of business – when did you last have them reviewed? s Your specialist contracts e.g. software licenses, franchise or distribution agreements s Website compliance, data protection, and distance selling s Is your Intellectual Property adequately protected?

s Lease obligations (and help you when you relocate) s What would a buyer look for if you are thinking of selling (we frequently advise business buyers and sellers) s Contracting procedures/credit control/debt collection (we also advise on general commercial litigation) s Do you have an adequate Shareholders’ Agreement – a ‘must have’ for private companies s Anything else that is concerning you

If you would like a no obligation discussion about how we can help your business, please call Jeff Taylor on 01527 871641 or visit www.thomashorton.co.uk Services for business | Corporate and commercial | Employment | Dispute resolution and litigation Commercial property | Charity law Services for individuals | Buying and selling your home | Family, children and divorce | Wills, probates and trusts Contentious probate | Dispute resolution | Employment | Strand House Wealth Management

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CAN’T SEE THE WOODFORD THE TREES The future of long-term investment Tom Ware

or the past 25 years Neil Woodford, manager of the Invesco Perpetual Income and High Income Funds, has been seen as the father of long term investing, second only to Warren Buffet. With his funds making up around 42% of the Investment Managers Association UK Equity Income Sector and his overall responsibility spanning over £31bn, it is no surprise that news of his decision to leave Invesco Perpetual, with an aim to setting up his own company, has been attributed significant column space in the pages of the nation’s press. However, it is important that as investors come to terms with this news that they base any decisions taken on reason rather than emotion. Perhaps his achievement is best shown over 25 years, where the Income Fund has produced a return of 1,688% compared to a sector average of 669%. But what about his successors? In past performance terms, of late Mr Barnett is ahead with 5 year returns of 117% compared to those of 88% from Mr Woodford. However, over 10 years Barnett lags with 201% compared to 210% average performance from the two Woodford Funds (Source FE to the end of November).

At the portfolio level both have high conviction when it comes to pharmaceuticals although Woodford does have a larger holding in GlaxoSmithKline. The biggest difference comes as a function of Woodfords dislike of banks, somewhat mirrored by Barnett, although he does have a holding in HSBC and his overall financial exposure (which includes things like insurance companies as well as banks) is 19% compared to Woodford’s 8% (Source Citywire). Whilst a less experienced investor may mistake Woodford’s focus and commitment as aloof and arrogant, there is no getting away from the fact that these gentlemen have worked together for over 17 years, and both have a clear ethos when it comes to protecting investor’s capital whilst growing it over the long term via a value style. As for Mr Mallon on the Distribution Fund, he has been hand selected by Invesco’s existing fixed income stars, Paul Causer and Paul Reed, who feel his style and view towards running equities, alongside a fixed interest portfolio, best suits their style of investment. For an outsider to second guess the judgement of two such experienced investors would be foolish at this stage.

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. This newsletter does not constitute advice and it must not be used to make investment decisions. Churchill Investments plc is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

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HOSPICE AT HOME Shipston Home Nursing

hipston Home Nursing was launched in June 1997. The idea came from a district nurse in Shipston, Charlie Wells, whose sister, Penny Birtwell, died of cancer in May 1992. Penny lived in Cherington with her husband Andy and 2 small children George and Beatrice. She remained at home until her death with the terrific support of her amazing family and friends. This was her wish and the experience for all concerned was life changing. From this experience, and having worked as a District Nurse, Charlie realised the enormous need for a “Hospice at Home” service to cover our local community. She moved forward with the help of local doctors from the Medical Centre at Shipston and local businessmen and friends. A board of Trustees was created, a Treasurer sourced and a target of £50,000 was set for the first year. Since then, the service has grown and now covers Shipston, Wellesbourne, Kineton and the surrounding villages. The team of 13 qualified nurses specialise in palliative care, looking after not just the patient but also their family for the last 3 months of life. The number of patients cared for has increased year on year and the feedback from the families of the bereaved has been immensely positive. The service is completely free of charge and referrals are made via your GP, District Nurse, MacMillan Nurses, Hospices and General Hospitals.

Throughout the year, Shipston Home Nursing holds a number of events to help raise vital funds. Events include shopping days, plants sales, bridge drives, car boot sales, sponsored cycle rides to name just a few. This year’s activities are as follows: Plant Sale- 10th May Ceilidh Evening-17th May

Over the past year Shipston Home Nursing has provided care for forty two patients, twenty four were women and eighteen men, ranging in age from 41 to 90 years old. The majority had a cancer diagnosis (72%) whilst the remaining 18% had conditions ranging from liver disease to Parkinson’s. This wonderful service comes at an average cost to the charity of £4000 per patient; forecasting an operating cost of £180,000 for this year. The charity is dependent on community fundraising, holding a diverse range of events to raise funds, as well as encouraging local businesses to support through varying sponsorship opportunities. If you’re interested in running your own fundraising event, spreading the word about the fantastic work the charity does or would like to make a donation please contact the team via 01608 674 929 01608 674 929 www.shipstonhomenursing.co.uk

Strictly Hetherington/SHN ball-13th September Wyatts tree and plant auctions-18th October Designer sale-7th November Christmas gift fair-18th -19th November Please note all events are subject to change. Please visit the website for further details and information.

Ming’s coffee and shopping day-6th June SHN Golf Day-24th June

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POP OF CULTURE Lucinda Bunn

Khandan at the Birmingham Rep – 22nd May to 7th June

Khandan (Family) is a bold yet warm-hearted look at contemporary family life. Widow Jeeto Gill has a strong sense of her past and her principles. She has spent her life working hard and making sacrifices for her children and now looks forward to going back to the Punjab. Yet with a restless son, a daughter’s dark secret and the arrival of a destitute cousin, Jeeto’s family’s destiny is about to change forever. Directed by The REP’s Artistic Director, Roxana Silbert, this new play by Gurpreet Kaur Bhatti will be playing at Birmingham Repertory Theatre from 22 May to 7 June. Broad Street Birmingham West Midlands B1 2EP 0121 236 4455 www.birmingham-rep.co.uk

‘Pen’ by Transient Art - Pen Museum, Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham 15th – 17th May The Museums at Night is an annual UK-wide festival which seeks to encourage visitors into museums, galleries and heritage sites by throwing their doors open after hours and putting on special evening events. During this project, Transient Art will temporarily become part of the Pen Museum intertwining amongst the exhibits, with over ten artists covering performance art, video, live ink-making, sculpture, writing and drawing. The artwork will embrace the nature of the museum, juxtaposing history with contemporary examination. The aim is to exchange audiences, whilst also promoting the museum to new visitors. Unit 3 The Argent Centre 60 Frederick Street Hockley Birmingham B1 3HS 0121 236 9834 www.transient-art.co.uk

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MASTER AT WORK Cover:Versions by Temper Michael Abu-Zalaf

Cover:Versions is a conceptual collection of works by contemporary artist Temper. Inspired by his childhood love of album cover sleeves, records and cover art, Temper has taken iconic images and recreated them to feature his own ideas and characters. As a successful graffiti artist, with a career that spans three decades, we caught up with Temper to find out how his process has evolved.

What’s inspired the new collection? It pays homage to a certain point in my life as a child. As a young kid I was inspired by the illustrations of Stan Lee and Bob Kane. My earliest memory of looking at an image and understanding concept and composition was with album covers. I used to sit for hours looking at these album covers imagining myself journeying through them, and then I’d change them.

How did the emergence of hip hop music affect your creative story? Hip hop music, and the associated culture was becoming globally popular and I remember seeing the news about the prevalence of graffiti in New York and how it was being regarded as criminal damage. The UK media were

reporting on this and how it was beginning to start here, fuelling the panic that portrayed the art form as some osrt of plague – added to that the police were embarking on an apparent man hunt to stop graffiti forming and track down artists. Within a couple of months of the first graffiti appearing in my area, I was heavily involved. With 6 cans of paint I went and did my first ever painting in an underpass. I was 11 years old and I was holding the nozzle with both hands because my hands were so small – from that day on I knew graffiti was going to be with me forever. One thing that’s fascinating about your process is your ability to change mediums, from spray paint to pencil illustration and now to oils. How do you manage your versatility? Changing mediums has always come naturally to me but the spray can is my most natural tool. When I first picked up the oil I was processing it in my head the same way I did with spray paint and after my first attempt it was clear to me that I had to abandon that pre-conception. I had to forget everything I’d learnt and start from the beginning.

www.edgemagazine.org I respect the canvas and my own integrity and I strive for the best possible thing from myself no matter what material I am using; it has to be as good as anything else I’ve done or will do. In all areas of my life there is an immediate sense of panic or complication that, I believe, is a natural human reaction when facing something new – however, the one thing I’ve genuinely never had a problem with is the creative question. I can answer it in seconds. With techniques I process them so quickly without thinking about it or it fazing me.

What does graffiti culture mean to you? Coming from the background I did, in an inner city, deprived area in the late 70s/early 80s, graffiti was my art, it was a language I understood. My early pieces were ‘stop war’, ‘no racism’, with other underlying societal messages and statements. My journey was and still is the

evolution of graffiti, how it should be treated, viewed, respected and how it should grow as an art form. That’s always been more important to me than being a guy with a street cred in that culture. Kids now will do it because they want that image. I had no other way of art being in my life without that story. That’s why to this day I refer to myself as a contemporary artist but I’ll never leave out the title of graffiti artist.

Where did the name Temper come from? My school nickname was Mr Mad Temper because my behaviour wasn’t great. I was a lovable rogue. The meaning of temper evolved for me, in the way that temper can also mean ‘to harden something’, I’d hardened my work, sharpened my skills and I liked that Temper was me channelling that energy in a positive way.

EdgeMagazine When it’s all said and done, how do you want to be remembered? What will be the Temper legacy? The legacy for me is when people look back over my career and re-investigate the conversation through collections and other work. My legacy is of importance and I think people in general will want to feel important. I want to be known as someone who pushed the boundaries because I didn’t believe there were any. When people identify early graffiti artists as these gremlins who destroyed everything, I want there to be the counter argument that great art came from that ‘bad seed’. I want to be known in the future as a master craftsman not just an artist.

What’s next for you? I’m working with Midlands based publisher, Washington Green, which means Cover:Versions will be shown in 36 of their Castle Galleries across the UK. This collection shows the journey that is possible with art as the vehicle – I started in a subway in Molineux and now this collection will be launched and showcased in Mayfair.

● Temper’s new collection launches on May 15th and runs until June 1st at Castle Fine Art, Bruton Street, Mayfair, London. ● Each piece is individually presented in a bespoke frame made from 45 vinyl records, that is seven inches wide and surrounds the 33 & 1/3 inch canvas ● The collection includes some of the most iconic album covers in history with The Beatles Abbey Road, becoming “A B-Boy Road” and Oasis’s Definitely Maybe, which turns into “Maybe Def?” Follow Temper on Twitter @Temper_art Find out more about the collection here http://www.castlegalleries.com

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Friday 20 June - Sunday 6 July Festival Highlights Music and Arts

Friday 20 June

Droitwich Spa German Twinning Association Concert

Droitwich Spa Festival features a packed a programme of music and art events to suit all tastes. Music and arts have been features of the festival for several years, which now includes a major Food and Drink Festival. The music and art offered over the three weeks provides a great opportunity to experience the wealth of work created by fantastic local musicians, artists and crafts people. Many of the musicians have been regulars at town events and it will be great to see them back at this year’s Droitwich Spa Festival. Local performer Abby Inez will be returning to the town, following her USA tour, while Tina V will be fresh from her music tours of Canada and Thailand. The guys from The Blue Mondays Jazz Quartet are back from university to perform at the festival. Other musicians to look out for include ‘Done by Sunrise’, who will be heading off to perform in Ibiza this summer; Sarah Warren and Nick Lyndon Duo, of the Fabulous Boogie Boys; and Blues singer songwriter, Matt Woosey. Sarah is quickly becoming the new ‘girl’ British blues icon being compared to Steve Marriot and Janis Joplin while Matt has been described as “A master at what he does,” by Tom Robinson. Droitwich Arts Network will be organising a programme of art activities including ‘have a go’ art activities, literary events and opportunity to watch artists in action. The network brings together artists and crafts people of all kinds to share ideas, present their work locally, and provide an artistic “backbone” to the Droitwich Spa festivals and events. The Droitwich Spa Festival is run by a committee of representatives from Droitwich Spa Food and Drink Festival, For Droitwich Spa, Droitwich Arts Network and Wychavon District Council. If you would like to find out more please contact the organisers or visit the website. For further information email info@droitwichspafestival.co.uk or call 01386 565355

Evening concert. 7pm. Sacred Heart, Worcester Road.

Saturday 21 June Live music at the Food and Drink Festival 10am-4pm. Town Centre.

Live music on the festival stage

6-10.30pm. Victoria Square.

Wednesday 25 June

Film screening of the War Horse Norbury Theatre.

Friday 27 June Saturday 28 June Open air performance of “The Merchant of Venice” by Billy Shakespeare’s Travelling Theatre Co. St. Andrews Church Gardens.

Saturday 28 June Literary event and live music

Sunday 29 June

Friar Street Festival of Culture and Music 12-8pm. Old Cock Inn.

Tuesday 1 July Jazz concert

8-10.30pm. Gaudet Luce Golf Club, near Droitwich

Friday 4 July

Classical concert

7.30pm. Sacred Heart Hall, Worcester Road.

Saturday 5 July Arts for All

Have a go arts workshops and Artists in view live demonstrations. Victoria Square.

Music showcase

Andrews Church Garden.

Sunday 6 July Picnic in the Park

12-5pm. Lido Park 4-6pm Live music at Lido Pool.

Saturday Evenings (21 June/28 June/5 July) Live Music at Lido Pool 7-9pm.

Victoria Square

Live music from local artists and performers 11am-5pm. St. Andrews Square Shopping Centre.

Live Lit in the evening featuring prominent local and national poets Park’s Café.

Droitwich Spa

Area Partnership

@Droitwichfest

Droitwich Spa Festivals

www.droitwichspafestival.co.uk

Event supported by: & other local businesses and organisations

EdgeMagazine

MARVELLOUS MACHINES

Discover world class collections and fantastical mechanical contraptions this summer

t Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, explore over seven centuries of art and objects, including the world’s largest public Pre-Raphaelite collection and the spectacular Staffordshire Hoard, the biggest hoard of Anglo-Saxon gold ever found. In the iconic ‘Birmingham, its people and its history’ gallery, uncover the story of Birmingham, and immerse yourself in 500 years of life, passion, achievement and strife. This summer, experience the happiest exhibition of the year: Marvellous Machines: The Wonderful World of Rowland Emett (10 May-21 September 2014). Step inside a land of fun and make-believe and discover extraordinary moving machines and inventions by the man behind Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’s most fantastical machines. This exhibition is the largest ever display of Emett’s work, and tells the story of his life from early years in Birmingham to becoming a major national and international figure. Andy Horn, Exhibitions Manager at Birmingham Museums Trust comments, “We are delighted to be hosting this amazing exhibition, and have no doubt visitors will be inspired and amazed by these incredible machines. We’re working closely with the Rowland Emett

Society and are very proud to be displaying the work of this inspirational character, especially as he lived and worked in the city of Birmingham for some 30 years.” Tim Griffiths, founder of the Rowland Emett Society said, “With this exhibition we aim to introduce Rowland Emett and his amazing machines to a new generation. He was a very familiar figure during the post-war decades but has been largely forgotten - until now. We will have twelve of the fifteen machines known to have survived in the UK on display alongside many of his distinctive original drawings.” Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery is not the only place in Birmingham to see the work of Rowland Emett this summer. From May-September, Millennium Point will be the temporary home of Emett’s gigantic clock, usually on display at Victoria Shopping Centre, Nottingham. Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery is part of Birmingham Museums Trust. Birmingham Museums are nine extraordinary and diverse venues across the city showcasing everything from a Spitfire and a digital Planetarium through to a perfectly preserved jewellery factory and a splendid Jacobean mansion. Birmingham

www.edgemagazine.org Thinktank

Thinktank

Museums include Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum, Aston Hall, Museum of the Jewellery Quarter, Sarehole Mill, Blakesley Hall and Soho House.

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For truly inspirational days out this summer for the whole family, visit Birmingham Museums.

By Rowland Emett

Image: ‘Featherstone Kite’ Openwork Basketweave Gentleman’s MK11 Flying Machine by Rowland Emett © the artist’s estate / Town Centre Securities / Birmingham Museums Trust

Entry to Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery is FREE. Admission charges apply for some exhibitions and other Birmingham Museums. See birminghammuseums.org.uk for details. Admission prices for Marvellous Machines: The Wonderful World of Rowland Emett: Adult £5 Child & Conc. £3 Unwaged £2 Under 3s FREE Family (2 adults + 2 children) £10 Chamberlain Square Birmingham B3 3DH 0121 303 1966 www.bmag.org.uk

(#06#56+%#. /'%*#0+%#. %1064#26+105 Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery 10 May - 21 Sept 2014

Chamberlain Square, B3 3DH

bmag.org.uk

Admission charges apply Funded by

EdgeMagazine

WHAT’S ON What: Cirque du Soleil Dralion Where: LG Arena When: 22nd-25th May 2014 Fusing the 3000 yearold tradition of Chinese acrobatic arts with the multidisciplinary approach of Cirque du Soleil, Dralion draws its inspiration from Eastern philosophy and its never-ending quest for harmony between humans and nature. The show’s name is derived from its two emblematic creatures: the dragon, symbolising the East, and the lion, symbolising the West. www.lgarena.co.uk

What: Classic Car and Transport Show

What: The Chuckle Brothers in a 2014 Space Oddity Where: The New Alexandra Theatre When: 24th May 2014 Paul and Barry visit a toy shop to buy some water pistols. Whilst trying them out they notice a toy space ship which they get in. “Don’t touch anything” the shop keeper shouts out, especially that button! “This button” they ask? “Yes” he replies. But Being the Chuckle Brothers they can’t resist it and press the button. “Oh Dear! Oh Dear!” they cry out as they magically and accidentally go into a space on a new adventure! Don’t miss this new hilarious story as The Chuckle Brothers go into Space! www.atgtickets.com/ birmingham

Where: Ragley Hall When: 25th-26th May 2014 This Bank Holiday, enjoy over 600 Vintage and Classic Cars, American, Kit and Custom Cars, Motorcycles, Commercials, Club Stands, Autojumble and Tradestands. Whilst at Ragley Hall, head down to Ragley Lake to enjoy family water sport activities. Ragley’s Adventure Wood with 3D maze and Woodland Walk will be open as will Ragley Hall and Ragley Gardens. www.ragley.co.uk

featuring a variety of classic British vehicles including a selection from the emergency services. There will be working demonstrations showing the power of recovery equipment whilst the different Military vehicles, both armoured and non-armoured will be on display and providing a firepower demonstration. www.heritage-motorcentre.co.uk

What: Oasis UK

The Baby Show, the UK’s number one pregnancy and parenting event, returns to NEC Birmingham this May. Hundreds of trusted brands will showcase top of the line infant essentials alongside new and innovative baby products as well as trendy clothing for babies, toddlers, mums and mums to be. Visitors attending The Baby Show will also have access to exclusive offers and fantastic savings that can’t be found on the high street. www.thenec.co.uk

Where: Evesham Arts Centre When: 23rd May 2014 A chance to re-live the highlights of 90s Britpop from one of Britain’s most iconic bands: OASIS UK bring you all the hits, classic album tracks & b-sides - plus their Britpop documentary preshow & in the interval. Come & roll with it - definitely more than maybe! OASIS UK is the only touring OASIS Tribute band to have recognition from Liam Gallagher. www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk

What: The Best of British Transport Festival Where: Heritage Motor Centre When: 25th May 2014 The Best of British Transport Festival will have something for everyone,

When: 16th-18th May 2014

What: The Baby Show Where: NEC Birmingham

What: Kidnapped Where: Belgrade Theatre When: 27th-31st May 2014 An adventure tale for all the family, Kidnapped tells the story of Davie Balfour as he survives shipwreck and murder dramatically to escape to the Highlands of Scotland. Set against the fierce social and political backdrop of 1750s’ Scotland, this gripping, fast paced adventure story is packed full of physical storytelling and imagination. www.belgrade.co.uk

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What's on at the Heart of England Galleries The Barber Institute of Fine Arts – Ruby’s Room until 26th May 2014 Birmingham Museum and Art GalleryStaffordshire Hoard until 31st May 2014 Compton Verney- YouThe 12th Plinth until 31st August 2014 Herbert Art GalleryRoman Empire: Power & People 16th May to 31st August 2014 Ikon Gallery- Iam Emes until 22nd June 2014 mac- Regular Associates Design Collective: How to Change the World until 11th May 2014 RBSA- Secret Garden Craft exhibition until 13th September 2014 Wolverhampton Art Gallery- A Big Bang: The Origins of Pop Art Collection, Part 1 until 21st June 2014 The New Art GalleryRichard Long: Prints 1970-2013 What’s On at The Heart of England Galleries

www.heartofenglandgalleries.org.uk

EdgeMagazine unspoilt rural environment enshrining those verdant characteristics. Tickets via 01564 793114 or e-mail patphh@btinternet.com Birmingham Repertory Theatre and Dundee Rep Ensemble present

What: Suggs: My Life Story Where: Royal Spa Centre When: 16th May 2014 In Suggs: My Life Story the Madness frontman takes to the stage in a hilarious, yet moving, one man tour de force playing to rave reviews. The death of Suggs’ beloved cat on his fiftieth birthday triggers a personal quest to discover what happened to the father he never knew. Stunned by what he learns Suggs is taken back to his childhood on the tough streets of 1970’s Soho and his first appearance on Top Of The Pops at the age of eighteen... www.warwickdc.gov.uk/ royalspacentre

What: Gareth Malone: The Live Tour Where: Symphony Hall Birmingham When: 25th May 2014 Get ready to sing from your seat as Gareth Malone the UK’s Favourite Choirmaster and Gareth Malone’s Voices invite you to be part of the show at Symphony Hall.Following a nationwide search earlier this year for accomplished young singers, Gareth Malone, the UK’s Favourite Choirmaster, has assembled the country’s finest young talent and together they will arrive in Birmingham in May.

WOMAN IN MIND By Alan Ayckbourn

A devastatingly funny play about a woman slowly unravelling

www.thsh.co.uk

What: Essence of England Where: St Peter’s Church, Wootton Wawen When: 9th-14th June 2014 St Peter’s Church is again the setting for the village’s music festival with the evocative title Essence of England. From Greensleeves to Elgar, modern musicals to madrigals, the 2014 programme dips into compositions many associate with a green and pleasant land - and the village provides a largely

13 TO 28 JUNE Book online: birmingham-rep.co.uk Box Office: 0121 236 4455

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*PRICES CORRECT AT TIME OF PRESS

INFO@THECUBE.CO.UK

WWW.THECUBE.CO.UK

FOR AN APPOINTMENT TO VIEW

T: 0121 654 9400

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