Edge Magazine November 2014
(Volume 27) FREE EDITION
Warwickshire, Worcestershire, West Midlands and Gloucestershire
Food & Drink | Culture | Business | Fashion | Lifestyle
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Live Music Emma Skipp – Friday 7th Nov Platinum Rouges – Fri 14th Nov & Fri 21st Nov Louise James – Fri 28th Nov METZ JNR – Fri 5th Dec Andrew James – Fri 12th Dec Rock Bottoms – Sat 13th Dec Louise James – Fri 19th Dec
9A Union St, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6QT 01789 414 999 01789 414 999 | Bamboodle.co.uk | info@Bamboodle.co.uk
Edge Magazine November 2014
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EDITOR’S NOTE
T
he holiday season is a time to celebrate the traditions we have learned with our families and those we have cultivated among friends. That’s wintery pub lunches, Christmas markets, shopping for gifts and going to the theatre.
This month we have a review of the RSC’s Love’s Labour’s Won, the second part of the company’s two plays, one cast extravaganza. If you have trouble getting in the festive spirit, this ought to give you a jumpstart. We’ve also been thinking about ways you can get creative this Christmas.
Michael Abu-Zalaf Editor-in-Chief
Act Five, a café in Stratford-upon-Avon, has just opened The Pottery, a delightful studio for experienced potters and total beginners to make decorations and gifts and enjoy coffee and cake while they get to work. If you’re struggling for gift ideas, look no further than Stalls Lifestyle, Preston-onStour; for home accessories, trinkets and unique items as well as an opportunity to spot the deer on the famous Alscot Estate surrounding the shop and café. We’ve got everything you need to know about choosing the perfect engagement ring with Anja Potze, as well as the announcement of Breitling’s new model, the Emergency at Tustains Jewellers. Christmas markets are a must this season and we’ve put together a guide of our favourites so you can enjoy the atmosphere and of course the food. The harsher weather calls for comfort food and we haven’t let you down with reviews this month; good pub food at The Crown Inn at Peopleton, fine dining in the country at The Wood Norton and homey helpings of ale-inspired classics at The Windsor Castle. On behalf of the team at Edge, have a great November and we hope to see you all again in December. If you would 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
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Edge Magazine November 2014
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Everhot Cookers - The Electric Range
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Tel: +44 (0)1386 555 333 Fax: +44 (0)1386 552 269 E-mail: sales@chaseheating.co.uk www.chaseheating.co.uk
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Rieker Cat Footwear
Ara
Clarks
Humphries Shoes was founded in Redditch in 1862 and is still run by the Humphries family who live in the area. We offer a superb selection of footwear from all the leading brands and always strive to offer our products at the most competitive prices.
Merrell
Anatomic
Timberland
Barker
Our Redditch store is renowned for its children’s department which offers an unbeatable range of styles from all the leading brands. We are the Clarks and StartRite Main Stockists for the Area and provide a level of service only found at a family run independent store.
Clarks
Dr Martens
Kingfisher Centre, Redditch
StartRite
Tel: 01527 62416
23 High Street, Alcester & 4 Park Street, Stow-on-the-Wold (Adults Only)
Timberland Other Brands Include: Tamaris, Lotus, Hotter, Caprice, Van Dal, H.B Shoes, Fly London, Merrell, Padders, Dr Martens, Josef Seibel, Anatomic, Ecco, Timberland, Loake, Barker, Skechers, Lelli Kelly, Geox, Radley, Tula and Many
CONTENTS: The Breitling Emergency 10 Swarovski grand opening 12 The rules of engagement 14 Catwalk trends: Autumn in Paris 16 Beautiful hair you can manage at home 17 Hair Creations 20 Court Leather 23 M21 24 Pet paradise 26 Christmas shopping, coffee and cake 27 Winter luxe 29 Christmas Gift Guide 32 Alternative flooring ideas 33 Bright ideas 34 Evergreen 37 The Pottery 38 Breakfast ideas 40 Christmas and New Year made easy 42 The Windsor Castle Inn 44 Merry markets 46 The Crown Inn 48 The local kitchen 50 Festive fine dining 56 A good year 58 King’s St Alban’s School 60 St George’s School Edgbaston 63 What to do this November 64 Let’s save money 65 Fund selection 66 A charitable Christmas 68 The Big Hoot 70 Christmas Shopping 73 Love Labour’s Won at the RSC: A review 74 New Staffordshire Hoard Gallery 76 A new beginning 80 Pop of culture 83 What’s on 84
Production 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 Julie Vasey - West Midlands Sales @edgemag_julie julie@edgemagazine.org Tel:07834 538 284
Contributors Laura Clay Steve Picker Karl Strawbridge David Hatton Becky Burden Eleanor Bate Tom Ware Mel Taffs Sarah Rees
Write to us at: MLP Publishing Ltd 20 Droitwich Road Feckenham Worcestershire B96 6HX
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‌two awards this year! It seems we have winning ways‌ Nigel Brown - Head Chef at The Moorings
Book Now for Christmas
Our three gastropubs all share the same aspirations – to serve fantastic food in a friendly, relaxed environment. Thanks to our recent awards for Best Food Pub of the Year for West Midlands and Wales and winner of the Leamington Warm Welcome award, not to mention nominated by Les Routiers for Pub of the Year, it seems we’re winning on both counts. Why not come and judge for yourself? And why not make it an extra tasteful Christmas with friends and family or the office party. Book now.
Discover our three pubs, each devoted to award-winning food and drink in characterful surroundings. Welsh Road, Offchurch, Leamington Spa, Warks; CV33 9AQ. Tel: 01926 425801 www.thestagatoffchurch.com
West Midlands & Wales region Great British Pub Awards 2014
Les Routiers 2014
Myton Road, Leamington Spa, Warks; CV31 3NY. Tel: 01926 425043 www.themoorings.co.uk
1 Droitwich Road, Feckenham, Redditch, Worcs; B96 6JE. Tel: 01527 894422 www.theforestatfeckenham.com
Hospitality Awards 2014 Finalist
Eagle Star Awards 2012 Winner
Edge Magazine November 2014
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The Breitling Emergency The world’s first wristwatch with a dual frequency locator beacon
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B
reitling’s prestigious watches boast both modern design and innovative technology. This month, Breitling launches a new model named the Emergency, reaffirming the brand’s pioneering role in the field of technological, hard-wearing and stunning watches. A specialist of technical watches, Breitling has played a crucial role in the development of the wrist chronograph and is a leader in this particular field. Over the years, the firm has gone from strength to strength, with its designers focusing on innovative technology. Tustains jewellers will be stockists of this advanced new Breitling model. To the joy of many watch enthusiasts and fans of the brand, the Emergency is unique. It is an ideal companion for extreme sports fans travelling to remote locations around the world. Equipped with a microtransmitter that alternates between two separate frequencies, it transmits digital signals in temperatures as low as -20°C. Creating this was a major technological challenge. The dimensions of the microtransmitter had to be adapted accurately to the wrist to ensure that the watch was of the highest quality possible. On top of that, Breitling also had to create a new circuit exclusively for the Emergency; otherwise it wouldn’t transmit on two frequencies or be compact enough. However, Breitling managed to make their way through this challenging process, eventually creating an ingenious and user-friendly integrated antenna system.
With a titanium case, the watch is sleek and tough. It is corrosion-resistant, non-magnetic, sturdy, yet surprisingly light and easy to wear. If you’re on the lookout for something more casual, you could always get it fitted with a rubber strap instead. Choose the colour of the dials too: go for a classic design and choose black, or try modern colours and go for a vibrant orange or yellow. The amazing design doesn’t stop there - the satin-brushed bezel of the watch is engraved with a compass scale, and the sapphire crystal is glare proof. Luminescent hands and numerals guarantee optimum readability to make a distinctive and timeless piece. Established in 1895, Tustains now has the Emergency in stock, ready for Christmas. “Many of our customers will be looking forward to seeing the exciting Breitling Emergency in store and being some of first to wear the new model” commented Tom Milner, co-owner of Tustains. With its ground-breaking and stunning design, the opportunity to purchase this time piece is one that cannot be missed. Find Tustains here: 89 Regent Street Royal Leamington Spa Warwickshire CV32 4NT 01926 421556 www.tustains.co.uk
Edge Magazine November 2014
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SWAROVSKI GRAND OPENING At the Kingfisher Shopping Centre
T
he international fashion accessory brand Swarovski opened in Redditch Kingfisher Shopping Centre on October 18th followed by a red carpet VIP Grand Opening on November 1st.
Swarovski is affordable and wearable luxury, with jewellery and watches to complement every woman’s wardrobe, accessories from pens to phone covers, and home wares. All beautifully gift packaged, they make ideal gifts… or just as a treat for yourself! Irene Dunn, Director of Luxury Essentials Ltd and Swarovski Brand Partner said, “This is a very exciting project for us as we open our Redditch Swarovski boutique. We were attracted by the investment the Centre is committing to in upgrading its retail offer, making the Kingfisher Shopping Centre a vibrant and exciting place to shop.” “From the day we opened we were delighted at peoples’ reaction to the new store. So many people share our passion for Swarovski, and a new generation of customers is already
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growing, recognising the fashion forward development of the brand.” Irene brings to the store a wealth of experience in luxury fashion retailing, having extensive UK and Caribbean experience where up to the minute fashion accessories backed by world class customer service have always been essential to the success of the business. While the Kingfisher Shopping Centre rolled out the red carpet for the grand opening, everyone who visited the store was treated like a celebrity. You are always free to browse or chat to any member of the trained Swarovski team to make sure your purchase is carefully chosen and right for you. Moving into Christmas will see new products being launched, special offers for Swarovski Club members and new Limited Edition Christmas decorations. Kingfisher Shopping Centre Redditch Worcestershire B97 4HJ 01527 405800 www.kingfishershoppingcentre.com
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Edge Magazine November 2014
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THE RULES OF ENGAGEMENT Anja Potze Fine Jewellery
G
etting married should be the most important day in your life, but it needn’t be the most challenging. The team at Anja Potze Fine Jewellery on Worcester’s Friar Street is dedicated to helping you make this special day as exciting and rewarding as it should be. One of the most traditional and important customs of marriage is the creation of the engagement ring – the symbol for eternal love and the infinite longevity of your union. As such, time and care should be taken when choosing what ring to design. Luckily, with decades of experience and a keen eye for class and beauty, Anja will help you realise that this seemingly daunting, insurmountable task can be not only easy but enjoyable as well. At her boutique shop at 10 Friar Street, Anja will lead you through the design process and show you how each ring is made tirelessly by hand, using a rare process called “hand stringing.” You will be able to see how this process – unlike some other less complex but also less effective methods – produces a ring that is not only smooth and beautiful but also of the highest quality, unique to you and suitable only for the hand of your partner. Furthermore, each engagement ring design comes with its own matching wedding band, designed to fit seamlessly with your engagement ring in order to create the perfect package for you and your partner. As well as the ring itself, Anja will also endeavour to help you choose the perfect gem stone to suit your wedding. Words like ‘carat’ and ‘clarity’ can seem intimidating to anyone who has not looked at jewellery before, but Anja and the team will help such an individual realise that there’s nothing to it. Let Anja’s keen eye and experience do the work for you, as she inspects every gem for its quality, suitability and makes sure that you are aware of any imperfections. Anja knows that when it comes to an event like marriage, nothing but the best will be good enough. No couple excited for their wedding day and patiently awaiting that special moment of engagement will want to think about the price of it all but Anja is here to help you understand that love need not be an expensive venture. Anja has chosen nine of her most beautiful and popular engagement rings and designed a sister ring to each which starts at a lesser price with absolutely no compromise on beauty or quality. Also, with collections from sensible, British Dower and Hall to the tantalisingly vibrant and Italian Fope and Ponte Vecchio, the variety and choice available is astonishing and Anja will be beside you every step of the way. Thus, do not be disconcerted by the task of purchasing the perfect ring for your love – it should be a time to rejoice and revel in the excitement of what will be the most memorable and amazing day of your life. And, if you’ll allow her, Anja will be a part of that day with her exquisite, expertly designed and impeccably finished jewellery. So pop in to 10 Friar Street, have a coffee and a chat with Anja and her expertly trained team and make sure that your day will be as effortless and perfect as it can be. Anja Potze Fine Jewellery Ltd 10 Friar Street Worcester Worcestershire WR1 2LZ 01905 20944 www.anjapotze.com
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Edge Magazine November 2014
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Catwalk trends: Autumn in Paris Becky Burden
T
he central makeup trends for this autumn were set on the fashion week catwalks and they were all about the eyes. The looks ranged from over the top eyeliner, heavy metallic shadows and most unusually, the no eyebrow look. From all the faces that were created here are some key trends to ensure you can have a high fashion face without having to lose your brows. Ballet chic Begin with pastel pink or nude shadows on your lids fading to almost nothing near the inner part of the lid. Continue the colour theme with a matching blush and a pink/peach lip but contrast with unkempt brows. This look is very youthful and light making it perfect for an everyday work look or weekend day trip. Combine this with a high hair bun for that extra ballet touch. Lashings of lashes
Metallic Liner
Nearly nude
Lashes were the focus on the models at Prada and Versace this year with false lashes being used to excess. To incorporate this into your everyday make up just grab that waterproof mascara you have in your collection and add an extra layer to your normal routine. A good tip for ensuring even layers is to wiggle the mascara wand when applying and use the tip to add more length to the outer end lashes. Make sure to team those lashes with a very nude lip to ensure your eyes are the sole focus.
Issey Miyake and Alexander Wang made the autumn metallics trend the most wearable with using bronzes and golds in the waterline of their models eyes with a very light dusting of shimmer on the the lid and barely there mascara. This is the easiest of the creations to transfer from your everyday makeup to evening looks by just building a metallic tone on your lids. Build and blend until the colour really pops and shimmers in the light and for extra oomph top with liner to enhance your eye shape.
The last stand out look from the catwalks that will suit any age group was the barely there trend of which Isabel Marant and Moschino’s make up artists showcased flawlessly. Create a perfect base with your favourite foundation and enhance the look with fresh pink cheeks and clear glossy lips. Steer away from any colour on the eyelids and use a brown mascara rather than black to keep that couture image throughout. This look is generally seen on the catwalks every year in some variation.
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BEAUTIFUL HAIR YOU CAN MANAGE AT HOME The Hairdressers, Droitwich
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t The Hairdressers, Droitwich, the team are dedicated to providing the best customer care. ‘We want to make your visit to us completely stress-free’, says Joe the salon owner. With professional and honest advice, free consultations and a relaxed salon, The Hairdressers stays true to what hairdressing is really about; making you feel and look fabulous.
of course looking great’, says Joe ‘We think its great when clients come in with pictures of the styles they like. It’s rare that anyone chooses something that really won’t suit them however sometimes the idea needs tailoring to suit your hair type, colouring and face shape. That’s where our years of experience help guide you into a style that will enhance what you already have’.
The quirky dĂŠcor and down to earth approach to hair styling means it’s all about creating beautiful cuts you can manage at home. ‘We don’t do overcomplicated finishes because we want our clients to be able to recreate the style at home. It’s about creating a cut that makes your life easier and your beauty routine more manageable, whilst
31 Ombersley Street East Droitwich WR9 8QX 01905 772957 www.thehairdressersdroitwich.co.uk
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Hair Creations
Bring out the inner you this Christmas
W
ith the festive season right around the corner there’s no better time to get glammed up, whether it’s for a Christmas party, a family reunion or a big new year party, Hair Creations will have you looking and feeling fabulous whatever the occasion. Hair Creations is a relaxed and friendly salon situated in the heart of Redditch, which offers customers a wide range of top bespoke treatments such as Kerastraight, weaves, braids, cornrows, permanent hair straightening for all hair types, a wide variety of hair extensions and techniques including Great Lengths as well as Shellac nails, to name just a few. If you’re worried about trusting a hairdresser with your hair then don’t be as the Hair Creations team has a wealth of experience. Owner and manager Shola has over 20 years’ experience in the hairdressing industry, is registered as a senior state hairdresser with the Hairdressing Council, and boasts an impressive celebrity clientele. But for those who are still a little sceptical the team offers free consultations and they’re praised for their impressive one to one service. For more information and to book your consultation please visit the website or call today. 4-5 Market Walk Kingfisher Shopping Centre Redditch B97 4HN 01527 629 22 07778 320 148 www.haircreationsredditch.co.uk
Relaxed and Friendly Salon in the Heart of Redditch Offering clients a broad range of Treatments including Permanent Hair Straightening for all hair types Hollywood Blowout Keratin Treatments KeraStraight GreatLengths Hair Extensions Micro Rings and Micro Loop Extensions Weaves, Braids and Cornrows Wigs, Hair pieces and Clip-ins Shellac Nail Art 10% off all Extension Services with this ad No matter the occasion, you will leave Hair Creations feeling Relaxed, Pampered and Glamorous 4-5 Market Walk 01527 629 22 Kingfisher Shopping Centre Redditch B97 4HN
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07778 320 148 www.haircreationsredditch.co.uk
Friendly professional design lead florists in the heart of Stratford upon Avon
New Pottery Studio in Stratford Upon Avon, offering an excellent range of classes using different types of clay and various techniques. - Porcelain Paperclay classes, to make hearts, stars and Christmas decorations, simple techniques with stunning results. Classes on Saturday 8th, 15th & 22nd November. - Our popular evening classes are now full to the end of this year. The next course starts in January 2015. New classes will also be available in the New Year. All classes can be tailored to meet your needs whether you are a beginner or an experienced potter. Pottery supplies are available from us as we are now a Potterycrafts distributor. Please check our website or Facebook for further details.
19 Sheep Street Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6EF
01789 414858 www.actfive.co.uk enquiries@actfive.co.uk
Edge Magazine November 2014
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COURT LEATHER
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Fine leather and sheepskin goods at fantastic prices
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ocated in Reindeer Court, Court Leather is a family business with over 30 years experience in offering a superb range of ladies and gents leather clothing, handbags and other leather goods.
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With one of the largest collections of leather and sheepskin garments outside of London, Court Leather is the place to find unique, quality leather goods this Christmas. From sheepskin gloves, all-weather leather hats,and a full range of leather and sheepskin jackets in many colours and styles, you can feel the quality in each piece and try on as many items as you want in store.
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Court Leather offers ongoing reductions on many jackets. You wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be able to beat these prices online or anywhere else. At Court Leather, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re guaranteed quality, style, excellent customer service and a competitive price. Go and see for yourself.
Jinney Ring Craft Centre, Hanbury Road, 53 New Street, Worcester, WR1 2DL Bromsgrove, B60 4BU 01905 611324 www.chocolatedeli.uk.com 01527 821693 info@chocolatedeli.biz
21A Reindeer Court Mealcheapen Street Worcester WR1 2DS 01905 23362 www.courtleather.co.uk
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WINTER BOOTS
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off any full-price winter boots when you bring this ad in
T&Câ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s: Valid until 31st December 2014. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Only on full priced winter boots.
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ackets Â&#x2021; Ladies and Gents Leather Jackets Â&#x2021; Sheepskin Coats Â&#x2021; Flying Jacket Â&#x2021; Cowboy Boots Â&#x2021; Moccasins Â&#x2021; Handbags We are a specialist Leather Goods Store Come and see our wide variety of stock in store now
TEL: 01905 23682
21A Reindeer Court WR1 2DS (just off The Shambles, opposite Marks and Spencer) Edge Magazine November 2014
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M21
The 21st century male Lucinda Bunn
M
21 is the new men’s boutique in Shipston-on-Stour. This is your one stop shop for the products no well-groomed man should be without. There aren’t many places on the high street to pick up items for the distinguished man but Karl Peacock knows men like to take care of themselves too. The traditional shave is back and more and more men are sporting beards, moustaches and longer hairstyles too. Equally, everybody knows it’s really important to keep your beard trimmed, your face smooth and your locks moisturised. With beard oils, traditional style razors and soothing skin balms, M21 has everything you need to treat your skin and hair. The Brighton Beard Company, Brooklyn Grooming and Dapper Duke are just a few of the brands you will see at M21, where the team has hand-selected a high range of skincare products from independent specialists. If you’re looking to treat a special guy this Christmas, head to M21 for a unique selection of gifts, accessories and grooming must-haves as well as ties, movie and pop culture prints, cards and wrapping. 2 The High Street Shipston on Stour CV36 4AJ
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The new men’s boutique in Shipston-on-Stour. Selected items for the distinguished gentleman. Beard oils, traditional razors, skin balms and accessories as well as gifts, cards and prints. Brands include: Brighton Beard company, Brooklyn Grooming and Dapper Duke. M21. For the 21st century male.
2 The High Street Shipston on Stour CV36 4AJ
Discover the magic of Christmas in...
Shop Local for a magical Christmas! If you’re looking for that perfect Christmas present, then you’re bound to find it in Royal Leamington Spa. With Leamington’s combination of independent boutiques and high street stores, you’ll discover an eclectic mix of unique and interesting gifts that will delight your loved ones this Christmas.
Pick up your Golden Ticket to WIN!
Just collect Golden Tickets at participating stores in Leamington town centre 16th November - 21st December to be in with your chance to win fabulous prizes!. To get you started, here’s your first one...
Name
Please complete your details and return this entry to a participating store or:
Postcode
BID Leamington Ltd. 35c Park Court, Park St, Royal Leamington Spa CV32 4QN.
For a full list of prizes, participating stores and full terms and conditions, please visit the website:
Phone Email Tick if you are 18 or over Tick if you do not want to receive information about future promotions. Data will not be passed to third parties.
Visit www.royal-leamington-spa.co.uk Follow us on: Edge Magazine November 2014
25
PET PARADISE At House Of Dogs Lucinda Bunn
H
ouse of Dogs, Worcester, is your one stop shop for all things canine. There aren’t many places to get your dog groomed and kitted out in cool accessories all at the same time.
woollen jumpers, plaid cover-ups and wax jackets to decorative leads, collars and raincoats. This Christmas, Stuart also has a range of soft, fleecy pyjamas and handmade blankets to keep your dog cosy this winter.
Owner and canine stylist Stuart Wilson knows how important it is to treat your dog to a groom as well as keeping their external health in check and their coat, paws and nails clean and refreshed. Offering a full grooming service, Stuart has been collecting loyal clients who continue to support his business.
House of Dogs also has a range of doggy treats. This Christmas you can pick up reindeer biscuits, ginger oat men and gooey in the middle snow ball snacks for your pal. Recently, House of Dogs picked up the Business of the Year Award for the second year running at the Worcester Customer Service Awards 2014. At House of Dogs, you and your dog are in good hands.
The boutique has a ‘home away from home’ feel with the salon in the back. The autumnal displays, along with the scents of woody cinnamon, bring instant warmth as you step inside. With quality items from top brands, Stuart handpicks items for the boutique, from
30 New Street Worcester WR1 2DP 01905 731645 www.houseofdogs.org.uk
Autumn/Winter Collection 2014 30 New St Worcester WR1 2DP - Tel 01905 731645 hodsboutique
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@hods_boutique
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Beautiful Bespoke Kitchens 5 Complete Kitchens on display at our showroom
Stockists of Karndean Floorcoverings
SHOWROOM OPEN: Tuesday to Friday 9am - 5pm & Saturday 9am - 3pm BLACKMINSTER BUSINESS PARK, BLACKMINSTER, EVESHAM, WORCS. WR11 7RE
T: 01386 830006
www.thepaintedkitchencompany.com
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CHRISTMAS SHOPPING, COFFEE AND CAKE At Stalls Lifestyle
S
Lucinda Bunn
talls Lifestyle makes for the perfect afternoon out; a chance to take a look around the shop and enjoy coffee in the conservatory with views of the famous Alscot Estate.
Of course with Christmas only days away, the team at Stalls have created a festive retreat for their customers. With beautiful handmade jewellery from local jewellers, autumnal candles and diffusers and homewares, there is something for everyone at Stalls with a range of price points. From sumptuous scarves, Scottish slate serving boards, ceramics, fur hats and boot toppers and even handbags, each item is picked for its unique qualities and quirky design. If you’re struggling to settle on gifts for loved ones or you have someone on your list who ‘has it all’, Stalls is a great place to fill in the blanks. Owner and buyer Kathryn Hargrave has both an eclectic taste and an eye for home accessories. Shoppers have been flocking to Stalls to get their gifts and meet for coffee and this Christmas Kathryn and her team are expecting more festive fun. Serving a range of coffee, teas and herbal infusions, the coffee shop also has fresh pastries, cakes and scones, with a daily
special too. The conservatory overlooks the beautiful Alscot Estate and the deer park which adds a unique opportunity to see the deer – definitely a treat to make your Christmas season feel warm and fuzzy. There is even a deer theme in the items Kathryn picks for the shop with 3D stag art on the walls and antler motifs. The choice at Stalls is great; for fantastic stocking fillers and little trinkets as well as gifts worth splurging on. Make a morning of it, or enjoy afternoon tea and cake while you shop, taking in the beautiful surroundings and the festive sighting of a stag in the snow. Stalls Lifestyle also starts selling freshly cut Scottish Christmas trees from the beginning of December. Stalls Lifestyle Preston-on-Stour Stratford-upon-Avon Warwickshire CV37 8DZ
01789 450837 www.stallslifestyle.co.uk Edge Magazine November 2014
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Winter Luxe At Hatton and Harding David Hatton
I
’ve never really been a fan of the cold. I think it stems from being a summer baby; soft, warm sand is definitely more my thing. However there is something appealing about the luxurious jet set lifestyle synonymous with the world’s most glamorous ski resorts. So what better way to cosy up this winter than creating your very own alpine lodge with warm, rustic pieces and luxurious good looks. Begin with a subtle and deliciously tasteful neutral palette of caramel, chocolate and taupes and then team with polar whites and wolf greys - we love Pheasant, Polar Bear & Platinum Grey all from Zoffany. For added decadence add a splash of matte black like Farrow & Ball’s ‘Railings’ and glittering metallics - just think creamy cognacs by roaring fire! Go oversized on furniture, sumptuous sofas and slouchy L-shapes upholstered
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furnishings in linen, leather or suede and beautifully styled with soft cashmere blankets and chunky cable knit throws. Andrew Martin ‘Berkeley’ and ‘Cavendish’ collections have sumptuous fabrics to tempt you. Large rustic tables are perfect for family gatherings while chandeliers made from antlers or raw branches illuminate from above and create a warm and intimate cohesiveness. Chairs of natural materials are softened with pelts and hides. Window treatments are simple to maximise the snowy views outside so think linens, sheers, plantation shutters or wooden blinds. If all that fresh air on the slopes takes its toll then retire to a restful bed of crisp white sheets under clouds of feather duvets and a tower of faux fur throws to give warmth and cosy ambience.
Accessorising with the perfect touches needs to be clean and simple; photo frames of raw woods, large carved bowls filled with horns and antlers and sparkling candles trimmed with rough bark. Oversized lamps with stone or wooden bases offer the perfect subtle lighting. Give me sea over ski any day but there’s no getting away from the luxurious styling you can achieve in your wintery retreat, a look as fresh as newly fallen snow. By bringing a few touches of textural elements throughout you’ll never want to leave.
Hatton & Harding 13a Old Square Warwick CV34 4RV 01926 408892
Follow us on Twitter@HattonHarding5 and Facebook Hatton & Harding
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01386 47234
TO EVESHAM TOWN CENTRE
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Visit our extensive SHOWROOM to view our NEW displays for 2013
MORRISONS
Š Cotswold & Vale Magazine 2013
www.the-bathroomstudio.co.uk OPEN: Monday to Saturday 8:00am - 5:00pm
Karndean flooring ON DISPLAY Full installation service UNIT 2 | EVESHAM TRADE CENTRE | ST RICHARDS ROAD | EVESHAM | WR11 1XG
BRIGHTEN UP
YOUR HOME :(Âś5( 7+( 3(23/( 72 &$// )25 1(: :,1'2:6 '2256 $1' &216(59$725,(6 &$// RU YLVLW ZZZ SHDUVKRPHLPSURYHPHQWV FR XN
Edge Magazine November 2014
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CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE
A selection of Christmas gifts available from Stalls Lifestyle
Birmingham Children’s Hospital Christmas Reindeer Jumper (Adult – Sizes: Small - XL) £19.99 Birmingham Children’s Hospital Christmas Reindeer Jumper (Kids – Sizes: 5-6yrs – 14-15yrs) £14.99 Available from www.bch.org.uk/store
Lampe Berger Gift Set £35 Available from Hamilton Jones Interiors
Selfridges - Festive Family Hamper £100 Available from www.selfridges.com/hampers or in-store
NEW Limited Edition Body Lotion & Body Wash Gift Sets (£19.95) Available in Red Mandarin & Ho Wood or Lemongrass & Ginger from www.greenpeople.co.uk
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Ralph Lauren duchess diffuser £45. Both Available from Hamilton Jones Interiors
Gin maker kit: £59.99
ALTERNATIVE FLOORING IDEAS At KSH Carpet & Flooring
K
SH Carpet & Flooring in Bromsgrove has always offered a wide range of flooring such as designer and cushioned vinyls, wood, rubber and both natural and traditional carpets, all from leading manufacturers. The team has years of experience and at KSH, customer service is backed up by sound advice and a personal approach from the moment that a customer comes into the showroom until the flooring is laid in their home. KSH has recently launched the new Quirky B collection by Alternative Flooring, with exciting patterns and vibrant colours. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no wonder that Alternative Flooring has been awarded CoolBrand status for the second year running and this new collection fits perfectly in KSHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s showroom.
functional, yet beautiful, longlasting flooring, Amtico has pushed the boundaries of what is possible in your home. If itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a carpet with real character that you are after, why not take a look at Jacaranda? They use natural materials woven by traditional methods to give their ranges wonderful texture with a natural colour bank. KSH also offers bespoke wooden flooring, giving you a choice of many different colours that would suit any room in your home, all finished on site to your specification, creating a floor that is unique to you. 18 Worcester Road Bromsgrove Worcestershire B61 7AE
ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TIME TO WARM UP YOUR HOME WITH NEW FLOORING
FLOORING FLOO F G PAINTS P AIN A NTS & PAPERS N PAP S BLINDSS BLIN
Whatever the room or the style... ...choose from our huge range of flooring to warm up your home this autumn. You can even complete your room with our complimenting selection of Farrow & Ball paints and papers and window blinds.
Visit our showroom or call us today on 01527 880778 Over 35 years experience Â&#x201E; Full measuring service Â&#x201E; No-obligation quotations Exceptional quality, competitive prices Â&#x201E; Professional installation Â&#x201E; Insurance work
01527 880778
Why not liven up your living space with the new designs from Amtico? Both the Signature and Spacia ranges are on display at the KSH showroom. With such a long history of creating
www.kshflooring.co.uk
Mon to Fri: 9am-5pm Sat: 9am-4pm 18 Worcester Rd Bromsgrove B61 7AE
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kshflooring.co.uk
Edge Magazine November 2014
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BRIGHT IDEAS Nevitt Lighting
W
ith innovative design and superior function, the options at Nevitt Lighting are second to none. As an independent, family-owned business, Nevitt Lighting provides a personal service to loyal customers and has done so for over 45 years. Specialising in top quality lighting and unusual ranges sourced from Italy, France, Spain and Sweden, the staff at Nevitt Lighting know the ins and outs of the lighting world and everything there is to know about the stock. With large showrooms in both Worcester and Gloucester, you can take a look and get advice from the team. From uplighters, wall lights, handmade shades, crystal chandeliers to floor standing lamps and bathroom lighting, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find everything you need at Nevitt Lighting. As winter approaches and the evenings get darker, simple pleasures such as
reading, sewing etc can become a chore. The answer is an easy one; a good floor standing reading lamp. A well placed lamp will transform your life and reading become enjoyable once more. At Nevitt lighting we have a range of floor standing lamps, including the one featured here. With a flexible head to concentrate the light where it is required and comes in a satin chrome or antique brass finish. The light source is a 12v, 50w halogen capsule or 5w LED. Traditional and modern ranges are featured in both showrooms so whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re harmonising your lighting with your classic interior or updating your look with some contemporary fixtures, Nevitt Lighting has plenty of bright ideas. 48 Broad Street Worcester WR1 3LR 01905 29889 www.nevittlighting.co.uk
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WANT TO TRY SOMETHING DIFFERENT THIS NEW YEAR??
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The Birmingham Marriott provides a stylish setting for an extra special New Year. Theme: Prohibition, Glitz & Glamour. Dress to impress
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Price, including dinner, disco & casino tables: £75 per person BIRMINGHAM MARRIOTT HOTEL Hagley Road, Five Ways Birmingham B168SJ
All Packages and reservation dates are subject to availability
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Edge Magazine November 2014
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EVERGREEN
Festive foliage at Wagon House Gardens Karl Strawbridge
T
he year moves on towards the festive season with wreaths, trees and garlands all becoming available to decorate our homes. What greater symbol of Christmas time than the tree. Christmas trees come in all sizes and varieties; Norway spruce is the traditional trees that bring that Christmas tree smell into the house. Nordmann fir is the type that has become more fashionable as they do not drop their needles. Although Christmas trees have been used throughout Europe from the 15th century they have only grown in popularity in Britain since the Victorian times. When Queen Victoria married the German Prince Albert, many of the German festive customs came over to England with him. Trees and the dressing of them with gifts and candles was one such tradition. We now seem to bring trees into the home from the
beginning of December whereas on the continent they have the great festivity of ‘the bringing in of the tree’ on Christmas eve when they also exchange their gifts. Holly and ivy are brought into the home to help celebrate the winter solstice festival. Ivy needs to cling to support itself and because it stays green throughout winter it led to the belief that it had mythical properties and became the symbol of friendship, marriage and support. While these beliefs in mythical powers have dissipated they both remain beautiful in fresh decorations. Wreaths are usually made from evergreens especially firs and are commonly used as a symbol of remembrance for the deceased. Circular wreaths have no beginning or end, they represent the eternal nature of faith or the circle of life. Evergreens are used to represent victory over darkness, even in darkest winter life carries on, the red berries signify the drops of blood Jesus shed at the crucifixion.
For most of the 20th century they have been embellished with ribbons, bows, flowers and cones and more recently dried fruit and nuts. Today’s wreaths are a wonderful decorative touch whether hung on the door to welcome visitors or to complete a room’s décor with their splash of colour it is sure to add to a feeling of warmth and excitement for the coming season. Jinney Ring Craft Centre Hanbury Road Hanbury Bromsgrove Worcestershire B60 4BU 01527 821421 www.wagonhousegardens.co.uk
Edge Magazine November 2014
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THE POTTERY At Act Five café and gift shop Lucinda Bunn
I
If you don’t know Act Five in Stratford-upon-Avon, then you should. This sweet café is frequented by theatregoers and stage performers, hence the name, and with the new pottery studio in the garden, Act Five has become a bit of a cultural hub. The Pottery has been developed by proprietor Jayne Gaskin and wellreputed ceramicist Gerry Rooney and is already taking bookings for courses and workshops. As a popular gift shop too, Act Five is the perfect place to meet for coffee and cake. With creative greetings cards, the work of local artists and unique and interesting home wares, jewellery and gift ware, all on display, you can enjoy the surroundings and the delicious food. Experienced ceramicists and anyone who is interested in giving it a go will be delighted with the new addition. Gerry has been teaching ceramics and inspiring students for nine years. With a First Class Honours degree in ceramics from the University of Westminster
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and experience behind her of teaching ceramics to adults, and she was the artist in residence at Torquil Pottery, Henley-in-Arden, Gerry is a creative and supportive teacher. The Pottery has an excellent range of classes on offer, starting on 22nd November with 2 hour taster sessions using Porcelain Paperclay. You can create beautiful hanging hearts and stars for your mantelpiece or even sweet Christmas decorations to personalise your tree. Enjoy a spot of lunch in the café or tea and cake. If you’d like to spend longer creating pots, vases and vessels using a range of techniques from pinching, coiling and slabbing, you could try your hand at the 2 week porcelain workshop with sessions being held on the 8th November and the 15th November. Here you will make more complex structures; tealight holders, small dishes and beautiful decorations. In January, The Pottery will be offering a 5 week course of evening classes that will be tailored to your needs using
different techniques and experimenting with vibrant under-glazes. The Pottery will also be offering ‘Potterycrafts’ supplies to be ordered through the studio so creatives can work from home. The studio will also be available to rent out for experienced potters and in the summer, Jayne and Gerry look forward to hosting demonstrations and talks as well as outdoor methods such as Raku and smoke firing. Events can also be tailored to suit your celebrations and indeed a hen party has already been booked! Any of the courses would also make super Christmas presents for friends and family. For more information on the courses and the upcoming events at The Pottery, call in at Act Five or check out the website or Facebook. 19 Sheep Street Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6EF 01789 414858 www.actfive.co.uk
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Open 7 days a week all day at the weekends Fresh fish specialist New September menu
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Chequers Inn Fladbury WR10 2PZ tspchef85@gmail.com
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Edge Magazine November 2014
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BREAKFAST IDEAS
The most important meal of the day Mel Taffs
B
reakfast is the most important meal of the day and it determines how well your body burns fat and kick starts your metabolism making it vital to get what you eat in the morning spot on. Eating first thing also stops you feeling hungry mid-morning. Here are a few ideas on healthy, filling breakfasts.
Yoghurt This contains power-boosting protein and bone building calcium. It can also help you keep fuller for longer. It helps to support the immune system is full of nutrients and calcium. Add granola, fruit or seeds to up your fibre intake.
Eggs Eggs are incredibly nutritious, a large boiled egg contains 6 grams of protein; they keep you fuller for longer. They also contain omega 3, vitamin A, folate and selenium. Try having scrambled eggs with smoked salmon, poached egg on rye toast or or an omelette filled with goatsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; cheese and spinach.
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Smoothies
Breakfast cereals
These are great as they are easily transportable and will help to put the brakes on food and hunger cravings. For a power smoothie blend combine 1 medium banana, half a cup of plain Greek yoghurt, 1 cup of milk, 1 tablespoon of peanut butter, 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder and 6 ice cubes. Blend together until smooth. Another options is 1 tablespoon of chia seeds, 1 tablespoon of water, 1 cup of frozen raspberries, 1/2 a cup of tofu, 1 cup of water and 3 ice cubes. Blend together until smooth.
These can be the most misleading food products when trying to determine the healthiest choice. Just look for ones that contain 3 grams of fibre per serve, those that have less than 5 grams of sugar or less than 25% of total calories per serving.
Sweetened brown rice Consider it a take of on a prepared cereal. Brown rice is full of energy providing B vitamins as well as a great source of filling fibre. Cook the rice the night before then in the morning put it in a bowl with a spoonful of honey, a handful of raisins, a sliced apple and a sprinkle of cinnamon. It is delicious but if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like brown rice use barley, rye, oats, buckwheat or quinoa.
Porridge This is a good old-fashioned favourite of mine and is still one of the best breakfasts to have. Porridge contains wholegrain and wholegrain derivatives and these contain a high amount of dietary fibre which fills you up and stops you from overeating. Carbohydrates are macro nutrients needed for optimal brain function and energy throughout the day. Also porridge gets digested at a slower pace; therefore this will give you more lasting energy. Add berries, seeds or banana to increase your fibre intake. Want to lose weight and keep it off? Sick of fad diets that do not work? Feel good about yourself again? Call Absolutely Flab U Less on 07792421080 or email: melanietaffs7@gmail.com
COMBINING DELICIOUS FOOD, FINE WINE & LIVE MUSIC EVENTS, STIRRUPS IS THE PLACE TO BE THIS CHRISTMAS. PRIVATE & CORPORATE DINING | GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE
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FOR RESERVATIONS CALL 01299 851600 or book online: www.stirrupsrestaurant.co.uk kidderminster road, cutnall green, droitwich spa, worcestershire WR9 0PW Edge Magazine November 2014 e: eat@stirrupsrestaurant.co.uk
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Christmas and New Year made easy Christmas comes but once a year, and with so much to do and so little time to do it all we’ve narrowed down our festive favourite spots to help make your Christmas and New Year as stress free as possible.
Water’s on the Square Edgbaston’s favourite Water’s on the Square is set to host a fantastic festive feast this Christmas. Guests can choose from a mouth-watering selection of dishes as part of the Christmas Fayre or Boxing Day menus including traditional favourites such as the chef’s soup of the day, followed by unique dishes of Scottish Beef, Fillet of Brixham Plaice or Israeli couscous before finishing off with a delicious dessert with choices including apple and pear crumble, pistachio ice cream and Queen’s Christmas shortbread. Whilst Water’s on the Square will be closed on Christmas Day the festivities will continue right up to the New Year with a special New Year’s Day menu also available. Tables are in high demand and short supply so book now to avoid disappointment. Chad Square, Hawthorne Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 3TQ 0121 4545436 www.watersonthesquare.com
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Bamboodle For a pre-Christmas meal with a twist why not try Bamboodle? Situated in the heart of the picturesque Stratford-upon-Avon, Bamboodle is an upmarket Asian ‘street-food’ bar with an exciting open kitchen serving Asian Tapas, Rotisserie and Noodles straight from the wok to your table. Dishes on the Christmas menu are slightly less traditional but are just as delicious. Choose from starters including Tom Yum noodle soup, Crayfish cocktail and shallot and sesame crusted chicken before moving on to main dishes include king prawn pad Thai, red chicken curry and quarter duck with pancakes to name a few. And finally finish with a dessert of mango sorbet, lemon cheesecake, chocolate marquise or a traditional Christmas pudding. There will also be a range of live music events taking place throughout the festive season. The Christmas party menu is available now until 23rd December. 9A Union St Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6QT 01789 414999 www.bamboodle.co.uk
Birmingham Marriott Hotel The Birmingham Marriott provides a stylish setting for an extra special New Year. Enjoy a 5 course dinner with dancing to our resident DJ, close up magician and casino tables until 1am. £75 per person. Bedrooms available from £135. Call 0121 452 7006 to reserve. Have you booked your Christmas package yet? The F&B team is getting into the festive spirit at the hotel, offering a wide range of events, party nights and Christmas Market Lunches. Prices start from £17.50 per person. So whether you’re relaxing before the season kicks off, grabbing some January sale bargains or you’re dusting away those January blues after all has ended and back to work is looming make sure you check out the Marriott Hotel for a relaxing break you won’t forget. 12 Hagley Road Five Ways Birmingham B16 8SJ 01214 521144 www.marriott.com
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The home of Sadlers Ales Book now for Christmas
New menu now available Open for Christmas day - bookings essential. Ask about our Christmas gifts
T-shirts, Bottles, Poly pins, Brewery tour tickets and gift packs.
3 Course menu prices are ÂŁ24.95 Windsor Castle Inn 7 Stourbridge Road, Lye, Stourbridge, West Midlands, DY9 7DG Open Daily 12pm - 11pm
01384 897 809 @sadlersales
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facebook.com/windsorcastle.inn russell@sadlersales.co.uk
www.windsorcastleinn.co.uk Edge Magazine November 2014
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The Windsor Castle Inn A Review
Hannah Griffiths
W
hen the seasons change and the nights become darker and colder, I like many others take comfort in warm surroundings, good company and great food, so you can imagine my delight at visiting the Windsor Castle Inn. Located in the heart of the Black Country, the Windsor Castle Inn is not only a wellestablished public house but is also home to the Windsor Castle Brewery, and is the Tap House to Windsor Castle Brewery’s Sadler’s Ales. Greeted by pub manager Russell we were warmly welcomed and shown to our table in the beautifully rustic surroundings. After drying ourselves off from the drizzly autumn forecast we began to peruse the seasonal autumn menu, where it quickly became apparent
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how beneficial it is to have an on-site brewery with each listed dish including a suggested Sadler’s Ale; recommended to complement the food. With a delectable array of starters to choose from, including homemade chicken liver pâté, wild mushroom bruschetta, steamed mussels and a larder board for two, to name just a few, both my boyfriend and I opted for the homemade soup of the day. The creamy, heart-warming tomato soup was served with Sadler’s speciality homebaked beer bread, a unique and perfect accompaniment to an otherwise regular dish. Now warmed-up, we moved on to the mains. After much deliberation I chose the Sadler’s beer battered chicken
fillets. Optional as either a starter or main dish each fillet is generously coated in beer batter using Sadler’s own ale, a major ingredient in many of the dishes on the menu and served with a sweet chilli dipping sauce, mixed leaves and hand cut chips. My boyfriend opted for Sadler’s steak and ale pie. Firmly cemented on the Sadler’s Favourites section of the menu the short-crust pastry case is filled with slow cooked pieces of steak in a traditional Sadler’s ale gravy and served with vegetables, hand cut chips and extra ale gravy. The generous portions meant we couldn’t find room for something sweet but for those who have room for a little extra the desserts menu doesn’t disappoint. Sticking with the homemade theme the dessert menu features a
selection of sweet treats to suit a variety of tastes. Our choices for the evening included chocolate brownie sundae, peach cobbler, American apple pie and Baileys and chocolate cheesecake to name just some, however the desserts menu does change regularly so it’s worth asking for the chef’s recommendation. The autumn menu is just one of the delights at the Windsor Castle. A fixed price menu consisting of either two or three courses, from £12.50, runs alongside the seasonal menu, whilst a newly introduced ‘Bangers and Mash night’ takes place every Monday and the Gourmet Burger Menu is a welldeserved Tuesday Treat.
The Windsor Inn is also catering for the upcoming festivities with a Christmas Party menu taking centre stage throughout December; an ideal treat for a family dinner or works outing. There’s also Christmas Day to consider and with a delicious four course menu on offer the Windsor Castle is definitely worth considering but don’t hesitate for too long as tables are rapidly filling up. 7 Stourbridge Road Lye Stourbridge West Midlands DY9 7DG 01384 895230 www.windsorcastleinn.co.uk
Edge Magazine November 2014
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Merry Markets
Our guide to this years’ Christmas Markets Hannah Griffiths
Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market 13th November to 22nd December 2014 The sweet smell of crêpes, hot Glühwein and festive frankfurters is sweeping its way across Birmingham as the Frankfurt Christmas Market rolls into town. Now in its 14th year the market sells the best in beautiful handmade toys, Christmas decorations, original jewellery and craft goods as well as some very tasty treats. The Frankfurt Christmas Market is open daily until 22nd December 2014. www.birmingham.gov.uk/ frankfurtmarket
Cheltenham Christmas Market 4th to 20th December 2014 The Promenade will once again be the attraction for both traders and visitors
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this Christmas for the 12th annual market event. This market is home to many International traders with a range of great Christmas gifts and ideas. There will be a huge range of designed wooden chalets selling a wide range of festive crafts and gifts situated in the beautiful setting of Cheltenham Promenade. The fully licensed German glühwein bar will also be in attendance, along with tasty treats including traditional French crepes, a delicious selection of olives and German Bratwursts. www.cheltenhamchristmasmarket. co.uk
Warwick Victorian Christmas Evening 27th November 2014 BBC Coventry and Warwickshire will host a packed program of entertainment on stage in the Market Place where Father Christmas will help the Mayor of Warwick switch the town’s Christmas lights on at
7pm. Plus attractions throughout the town centre including a traditional carousel, a horse and carriage, craft demonstrations, birds of prey, ferret racing, traction engines, children’s rides and an auction and of course a fantastic market!
Worcester Victorian Christmas Fayre 27th – 30th November 2014 Worcester Victorian Christmas Fayre is the leading Victorian-themed street market in the West Midlands and is the perfect way to begin your seasonal preparations and celebrations. The atmospheric streets of historic Worcester’s will be filled with sideshows and more than a hundred stalls with many stallholders expected to dress in traditional dress as 19th century ladies, gents, urchins and chimney sweeps, as well as a few Victorian themed surprises along the way! www.visitworcestershire.org
Edge Magazine November 2014
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The Crown Inn: A review Steve Picker
T
he Crown at Peopleton has a lot going for it. As a pub under new ownership, this country retreat is making waves with rustic, modern pub food. Craig and Claire Crump reopened The Crown two months ago with a new menu, a new kitchen and a new mission; to make good pub food with locally sourced ingredients. We started the evening in the bar, next to the roaring fire. The décor is warm and cosy making The Crown the place to come for some seasonal comfort. The menus are updated regularly to cater for cross-seasonal produce so the choice is always fresh and varied. This autumn, you’ll be served beautiful seasonal plates with local ingredients like cauliflower, beetroot and pears. In the restaurant, the starters were served; locally-caught partridge, dressed with a delicate micro herb salad and served with swede purée, beetroot reduction and blackberries as well as braised pig cheeks with ginger and honey glazed carrots and beetroot jelly. The rich, silky delicacy of beautiful partridge only needed the simple herbs to lighten the plate. The succulent pig cheeks melted in the mouth with the honey and ginger glaze bringing out the natural sweetness of the carrot and beetroot. For mains, salmon en pappilotte cooked with chorizo, mussels, tomatoes and sweet pepper. Flakes of salmon slid onto the fork with the spicy chorizo, fragrant mussels and sweet tomato and pepper, adding a depth of flavour that surprises with each mouthful. We also tried the pan-seared calves’ liver and creamy mash, deep-fried sage leaves and crispy pancetta, all married together with a red wine jus. Unlike the salmon, there’s no subtlety about this plate. It’s all about deep, rich flavour, delicious salty pancetta, and warming
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mash. Walks in the countryside and weekends in the cold should end with a meal like this. Dessert was sweet and equally comforting. What headchef Craig calls Chocolate Decadence is milk and white chocolate brownie, milk chocolate mousse and dark chocolate ganache. Chocolate Decadence is chocolate heaven. We also went for the panacotta with homemade honeycombe and vanilla cheesecake, served with a berry compote; creamy and light the panacotta works perfectly with the compote. With first class, friendly service and a menu like this, Craig and Caroline have got it right. The Crown is serving smart, simple pub food. It ticks all the boxes. You must go and try it. The Crown Inn Peopleton Pershore WR10 2EE 01905 840222 www.crownpeopleton.co.uk
Edge Magazine November 2014
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The Local Kitchen Everything that’s cooking in the four counties Fudge kitchen opens a pop-up shop in Selfridges, the Bullring What better place than the Best Department Store in the World (as voted for three years by the Global Department Store Summit) for the Best Fudge in the World (as voted for 33 years by us … and anyone who tries it)? Continuing until the 27th December, Fudge Kitchen will be taking up residency at Birmingham’s Selfridges Food Hall on G in a specially designed pop-up shop, groaning with sparkling, gift packaged fudge; and complete with hob and marble counters on which our famously entertaining staff will be regularly
demonstrating traditional fudge making. Follow your nose to the bottom of the Down escalator for creamy, gourmet fudge, handmade and decorated in small batches by an artisan staff using only the finest, natural, gluten free ingredients. www.fudgekitchen.co.uk
Ragley Hall Snowball A spectacular festive event is happening at the opulent Ragley Hall all through December. Ragley Hall is hosting many magical nights of food, fun and dancing; a classically themed ball perfect to get you into the festive mood. When you arrive you will be whisked away into the beautiful hall, only to enjoy a delicious meal. Immerse yourself in the magical festivities; the live music and DJ, the Christmas games and the photo booth. Finally, as if that wasn’t enough, you are taken on a carriage ride at half past midnight around the grounds- a setting fit for a fairytale. So what are you waiting for? Book your tickets now to have a brilliant December. Ragley Hall Alcester, Warwickshire, B49 5NJ 01789 762 090 www.ragley.co.uk
Unbelievably easy mince pies Ingredients: 225g cold butter, diced 350g plain flour 100g golden caster sugar 280g mincemeat 1 small egg Method: To make the pastry, rub 225g cold, diced butter into 350g plain flour, then mix in 100g golden caster sugar and a pinch of salt. Combine the pastry into a ball – don’t add liquid – and knead it briefly. The dough will be fairly firm, like shortbread dough. Preheat the oven to 200C/gas 6/fan 180C. Line 18 holes of two 12-hole patty tins, by pressing small walnut-sized balls of pastry into each hole. Spoon 280g mincemeat into the pies. Pat small balls of pastry between your hands to make round lids. Press the edges gently together to seal. Beat 1 small egg and brush the tops of the pies. Bake for 20 minutes until golden.
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Crown Inn Peopleton - under new management
Craig & Claire would like to welcome new and existing customers to our Family Pub Enjoy Great Food, Great choice of Ales and Wines & A Great Atmosphere Open all day serving Lunches and Dinners all produce locally sourced where possible
Ask about our Senior lunch offers Christmas bookings now being taken @CrownPeopleton
/thecrowninnpeopleton
Edge Magazine November 2014
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"the art of fine dining"
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Turners Restaurant picks up two awards at AA Hospitality Awards Turners Restaurant in Harborne picked up two prestigious accreditations in September, alongside launching a new menu initiative. Chef Richard Turner was delighted to be awarded with another Michelin Star for the prestigious Michelin Guide 2015, and was also honoured at a star studded award ceremony at The London Grosvenor, where he received 3 AA Rosettes for ‘Culinary Excellence”. The 3 AA rosettes recognise consistency and seasonality in the cooking as well as intelligent service, and a well chosen wine list. Richard commented “I would like to thank my team and of course our customers for their on-going support.” Turners have also teamed up with Purity Ale to launch a World Beer menu matched to their tasting menu. www.turnersrestaurantbirmingham.co.uk
The Secret Kitchen cookery classes Ron Lines, head chef at Upton’s favourite café The Secret Mess, has plenty of culinary knowledge to share. His creative flair in the kitchen makes him the perfect chef to learn from too. The Secret Kitchen cookery school offers various day courses so you and your friends can learn how to make sauces, simple desserts and the art of dressing a plate. Ron believes with the right guidance, anyone can cook delicious food in their kitchen at home. If you want to impress your friends at your next dinner party or treat your family to a feast made by you, invest time in The Secret Kitchen. 50% discount if you mention Edge Magazine.
Home Kitchen
1 Church Street Upton on Severn 01684 594892 07836646093 www.secretkitchencookery.co.uk
HomeKitchen is your local, homemade delivery service. The Team believe in using the very best of the ingredients on offer in Worcestershire, to deliver you something delicious, honest and wholesome; designed to take the stress away from meal planning, food shopping and cooking, delivering home-made dinners to your door. Home Kitchen uses local suppliers, using only free-range meat and eggs and organic as far as possible. Home Kitchen caters for all, perfect for families, the elderly or busy individuals. 07973284041 food@homekitchenworcester.co.uk www.homekitchenworcester.co.uk
Edge Magazine November 2014
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Wickedly delicious chocolate Alchemy Artisan Chocolatiers celebrates its first year anniversary this month with an exciting range of new handmade chocolates, as well as established favourites – all of which can now be purchased online. The tempting Christmas collection includes Winter Domes, Cranberry Truffles and a rich Raspberry Cup. There is also a new diabetic range – a delicious solution for those who hate diabetic chocolate!
Churchfields Ice Cream - Festive flavours with a frozen twist Take a taste trip from the usual figgy pudding and mince pie dessert this Christmas with an exciting frozen twist. Churchfields Farm offers a luxurious range of fabulous ice creams and sorbets - great on their own, or as an accompaniment - to make a deliciously different Christmas treat. Indulge your taste buds with the innovative Orange and Grand Marnier ice cream or mulled wine sorbet; or serve your traditional favourites with Churchfields Christmas Pudding or Mince Pie ice cream. Made with a high milk and double cream content – from the Farm’s pedigree herd of Holstein Friesians – Churchfields brings an artisan taste twist to your table this Christmas.
A unique creation for winter 2014 is Alchemy’s Wasabi truffle, ideally served as a canapé or amuse-bouche at the start of a meal. Chocolatier ‘Bronk’ uses his special recipe dark chocolate to encase a smooth centre made from the fiery bitter sweet wasabi plant. For details of where you can sample Alchemy chocolates or to buy direct visit www.alchemychocs.co.uk
For local stockists or to order direct call 01905 451 289. Churchfields Farm Salwarpe Droitwich WR9 0AH www.churchfields-farm.co.uk
Christmas at Stirrups Nestled into the beautiful Worcestershire countryside, Stirrups of Cutnall Green is a restaurant and bar suitable for all occasions. It hosts a stunning menu in which all food is locally sourced by the award-winning chef Loredan Gargalac. Also, with a fantastic wine and drinks menu, it acts as the perfect setting for family festivities. Over the Christmas period, Stirrups is hosting many festive events that everyone can enjoy such as live music from The Remi Harris Trio and Squeaky Pete and Friends. Also,
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Stirrups offers two mouth-watering Christmas menus and a Boxing Day menu, as well as a children’s menu to keep the little ones happy. A lovely restaurant with exquisite food and a brilliant festive atmosphere. Stirrups Restaurant and Bar Kidderminster Road Cutnall Green Droitwich Spa Worcestershire WR9 OPW 01299 851600 www.stirrupsrestaurant.co.uk
NH_edge_magazine.qxp_Layout 1 23/10/2014 15:41 Page 1
CHRISTMAS BANQUET MENU Poppadum and Chutneys
Starters Salmon Dildar Steak of Scottish salmon marinated in a special blend of spices, flavoured with fresh dill, char grilled in tandoor
Turkey sheekh kabab Kebab of pounded turkey blended with cheese, ginger, green chilli and spices, glazed golden on tandoor
Lamb shammi kabab Deep fried cake of minced lamb, lentils (channa dal), spices and herbs
OR Papdi chat (V) Crunchy wheat crackers topped with boiled potato, tomato and onion dices, seasoned with tangy mixture of sweet yogurt, mint and tamarind chutney. Served chilled
Paneer chutneywalla tikka (V) Marinated Indian cottage cheese filled with tangy mint, roasted in tandoor
Tandoori bharwan mushroom (V) Lightly spiced minced vegetables and cheese filled marinated mushroom, grilled in the tandoor
Main Course Murgh Makhani* Chicken tikka slow cooked in subtle and creamy tomato and cashew nut sauce flavoured with dried fenugreek leaves, ginger and honey
Laal Maas Red curry of lamb dices marinated in red chilli paste, yoghurt, garlic and chosen Rajastani spices
Bombay style fish curry An extraordinary dish of tilapia fillets in coconut, onion, coriander seed, and red chilli and curry leaves gravy finished with coconut cream
Subz Panchamel (V) A medley of five seasonal vegetable tossed with onion and tomato based masala.
Dal Makhani (V) Black lentils slow cooked over night to the house recipe, finished with cream and butter
Mix veg raita (V) (Cucumber,tomato and onion)
Green salad
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Dessert (Choose any one)
Gulab Jamun with Vanilla Ice Cream An exotic fried dumplings of cottage cheese and reduced milk soaked in rose flavoured syrup
Chocomosa* Golden fried parcels of filo pastry stuffed with a roast almond and chocolate filling, served with vanilla ice cream
Christmas Eve Dinner
24th December The Oak Room Restaurant Enjoy a delightful candlelit Christmas Eve dinner in The Oak Room Restaurant with Christmas music and carols from pianist & soloist Michelle French. £39.50
Christmas Day Lunch
25th December The Oak Room Restaurant Enjoy a traditional Christmas Day lunch with all the trimmings in the historic Oak Room Restaurant. £99.50 Adults £50.00 Under 13’s Rick’s Bar Celebrate a family Christmas in the spectacular Rick’s Bar. A wonderful conservatory setting with a 20 foot Christmas tree. £85.00 Adults £45.00 Under 13’s
Boxing Day Brunch
The Oak Room Restaurant and Terrace Suite 26th December Enjoy a relaxing brunch after the festivities. With magicat your table. After brunch a breath of fresh air and the challenge of our ‘Laser’ Clay Pigeon shooting contest. £29.50 Adults £15.00 Under 13’s
After Christmas Motown Party
Rick’s Bar 27th December Enjoy a Boxing Day Dinner With Cabaret and Dancing to Soul Legend with all the Love Songs and Hits of Soul and Motown. £32.50
Traditional Christmas Pudding Served with brandy sauce
£39.00 min 8 people * Contains nuts This dish contains some hot spices. As a standard our dishes are cooked medium hot. Should you require your dish to be hotter, please speak to your server. 12.5% service charge.
To book a table call 0121 643 7978 245 Broad Street, Birmingham B1 2HQ
www.pushkardining.com
FOR DETAILS OF ALL THE EVENTS ON AT NAILCOTE THIS CHRISTMAS PLEASE VISIT
www.nailcotehall.co.uk
BOOKING HOTLINE CALL: 02476 466174 info@nailcotehall.co.uk
Nailcote Lane, Berkswell, Warwickshire CV7 7DE
Edge Magazine November 2014
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Festive Fine Dining THE WOOD NORTON: A REVIEW
T
he Wood Norton Hotel in Evesham is the perfect place to enjoy a festive dinner in the lead up to Christmas. The fine dining menu brings together sophisticated flavours and creative flair to give you a taste of modern, British cuisine at its best. The fine dining menu is a great way to explore the style of food at The Wood Norton and treat your friends and family to a special meal. The evening started with a cauliflower and vanilla velouté with micro watercress, a sorbet to cleanse the palette and then the celeriac velouté with wild mushroom espuma and truffles. The earthy celeriac and mushroom combination gives a wintery feel to this light dish that excites with textures of soft, airy foam. For mains it had to be the beef. A fillet, cooked to perfection and served with wild mushrooms, shallots, kale and parsnips.
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Steve Picker The beef created a deep meaty flavour that was offset well with the subtlety of the mushrooms and the sweetness of the parsnips. The quality of the ingredients shone through and cooked medium rare, the meat was excellent. For dessert, the poached pear with honey crémaux, ginger crumble and ginger ice cream. The soft poached pear melted in the mouth with the sweet honey and ginger flavour combinations tantilising the taste buds. A well designed dessert and a departure from anything too heavy or chocolatey. The meal was complete with coffee and petits fours; Scottish tablet, nougat and lemon meringue; light, fanciful and fun. The Wood Norton team has created a fantastic menu to complement the surroundings. The Grade II listed mansion was completed in 1897 for exiled European royalty. It’s a
glorious display of Victorian opulence, with stunning terraces and vistas all taking full advantage of the view beyond. That’s why The Wood Norton is one of the most popular wedding venues in the area. This Christmas, you can enjoy champagne with your friends in the wood-panelled main hall or indulge in the divine dinner menu. The Wood Norton has delicious food and a historical setting to make your festive season sparkle. Worcester Road Evesham Worcestershire WR11 4YB 01386 765611 www.thewoodnorton.com
THE DOORS ARE OPEN & YOU HAVE BEEN SPECIALLY INVITED…
JOIN US AND CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS IN STYLE
WINTER AFTERNOON TEA
Alternatively why not try something a little different and enjoy a Winter Afternoon Tea served with Mulled Wine. £18.95 per Person
CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH
If your ideal Christmas Day is more about pampering than preparation Christmas Lunch in The Restaurant provides the perfect solution. Enjoy Champagne & Canapes on arrival followed by a 6 Course Christmas Day Lunch - £85 per Adult £42.50 per Child
CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY
Enjoy a magical stay away this Christmas and join us for a festive retreat in the heart of Worcestershire on the edge of The Cotswolds. Your stay includes Two Nights away with Cream Tea’s, Dinner, Christmas Day Lunch and much more.
From £295 per Person
BOXING DAY LUNCH
If you feel the need to leave the kitchen sink behind, why not join us for Lunch this Boxing Day. From 12.30 – 3.00pm. Three Course Traditional Boxing Day Lunch. £32 per Adult £20 per Child
New Year’s Eve
Celebrate in Style at either our Restaurant New Year’s Eve Party with Jazz or Orangery Gala Dinner Dance and welcome in 2015. Prices start from £85.00 per person
For more information on our Christmas Festivities and our New Year’s Eve Dinner Dances please contact either Siobhan or Naomi at the hotel who will be delighted to assist you.
Christmas@thewoodnorton.com | 01386 765 611 Worcester Road, Wood Norton, Evesham, Worcestershire, WR11 4YB
A GOOD YEAR Your chance to win Cru Bourgeois Laura Clay
A
s the 2014 harvest was just beginning in September with the first of the juicy ripe Merlot grapes being picked in Bordeaux, so the 2012 Crus Bourgeois wines were being released. Cru Bourgeois is a classification of the wines of the Médoc which was first established in 1932, really as a commercial exercise rather than a beauty parade, for over 400 châteaux which hadn’t made Cru Classé status in 1855. After a period of classifying these châteaux in a somewhat meaningless way with, allegedly, money exchanging hands and favours being given to friends, various litigations led to a re-evaluation and re-organisation of the system in 2008. After five years’ vintages it seems to me that the current arrangement is working well. To qualify as a Cru Bourgeois, the vineyards must be based in one of the eight Médoc appellations: Médoc, HautMédoc, Listrac-Médoc, Moulis, Margaux. Saint Julien, Pauillac and Saint Estèphe. The property and vineyards are randomly checked, then the wine is blind tasted and scored by a jury of experts made up of professional tasters from the wine industry. And this must be done each year so the number of Crus Bourgeois and those which qualify varies with each vintage. In the past there were three tiers, Exceptionnel and Supérieur along with the Cru Bourgeois, but now there is only the one and sadly those châteaux which in the past were awarded Exceptionnel status tend not to participate which
You can win a couple of bottles of Cru Bourgeois 2012 by answering the question below:
possibly makes things unnecessarily complicated for the consumer. The fact that a wine can boast the seal of Cru Bourgeois approval does give a quality assurance. However, a Médoc wine which doesn’t carry the classification tag doesn’t automatically mean it didn’t qualify – the château may simply not have participated. Of the 267 châteaux to qualify as Cru Bourgeois with their 2012 wine, 188 made it to London for a trade tasting. As a vintage, 2012 was warm though there was a little too much rain during August and September which meant that a careful selection of grapes was needed, discarding any which might have suffered from rot or had become fat and dilute. Having tasted through many of the wines, (my teeth simply weren’t up to tasting all 188!) overall this seems to have been done judiciously. Some of the less expensive wines will be drinking young, are fruity and great value; a few can be found for under £10. Those priced mid-range show good fruit and structure; the best are over £20 and have serious complexity and age potential, and, for me, come mostly from St Estèphe. The 2012’s will be on the shelves soon but in the meantime you can try these: Château Panigon, Haut-Médoc, 2009 £9.95 The Wine Society Château Amour, Médoc 2011 £14.99 Vinology, Stratford on Avon Château Fourcas-Dupré, Listrac 2005 £21.99 Loki, Birmingham The Cru Bourgeois is a classification for which wine area? A) Sancerre B) Médoc C) Beaujolais
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Submit your answer to wine@ edgemagazine by 30th November giving your name and contact details. You must be 18 to enter. Terms and conditions apply. To see BYWine’s favourites of the 267 2012 Crus Bourgeois go to www.bywine.co.uk
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King’s St Alban’s School Learning opportunities outside the classroom
A
t King’s St Alban’s School in Worcester the new academic year has started with all the pupils looking forward to a year brimming with exciting and challenging opportunities both in and outside the classroom. In the first days of term a number of excursions and workshops have taken place which are designed to help all pupils get to know one another and to fire their imagination and enthusiasm for learning. The academic year has only just begun but already the range of excursions that have taken place include a day involving Year 6 at the Knapp and Paper Mill Nature Reserve to study rivers. They have also applied their knowledge of mechanics and construction at a Bridging Structures workshop. Year 5 has visited Top Barn Farm for land and
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water based team building activities and built a Tudor house in the school’s beautiful 19th century chapel. Year 4 has been to Lunt Roman Fort whilst Year 3 has been ‘down on the farm’ at Lower Smite, studying local habitats. As the academic year unfolds the school will continue to nurture the potential of every child; the excellent teaching and unrivalled facilities will ensure that every pupil can find ways to expand their horizons and take on new challenges. Later in the year children from Years 4 and 6 will spend time at the Old Chapel, The King’s School’s own outdoor education centre in Wales. For many children, time spent at the Old Chapel is one of the highlights of their time with King’s. Back at school, the forthcoming opening of the Keyes building, (named after Tim Keyes who retired as Headmaster of the
Senior School this summer), means that pupils at King’s St Alban’s and at the King’s Senior School can look forward to a purpose built sports and performing arts centre. The new facilities in the Keyes building include a sports hall, fitness suite, dance and drama studios, a climbing wall and sixth form centre. Come and visit King’s St Alban’s at the next open morning on Saturday 8th November, and see for yourself the learning environment which sets us apart from other schools in the area. Alternatively you can arrange a visit with Louise Robins, registrar, on 01905 354906 and learn about the many opportunities that are provided at King’s St Albans, both inside and outside the classroom. www.ksw.org.uk
IA SCHOLA
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ORNIENSIS VIG
KING’S HAWFORD (2 to 11)
King’s is a thriving co-educational independent
Independent co-education for ages 2 to 18
KING’S ST ALBAN’S (4 to 11)
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
day school that offers an outstanding educational Saturday 8 November experience. Children join the King’s Foundation Saturday 15 November at a number of different stages. Kindergarten and Reception are common starting points at King’s Hawford; Reception, Year 3, Year 4 and Year 5 at King’s St Alban’s; and 11+, 13+ or 16+ at King’s senior school.
KING’S WORCESTER (11 to 18)
King’s St Alban’s – Open Morning Sixth Form – Open Morning (16+) Saturday 22 November Senior School – Taster Morning (11+) Saturday 6 December Senior School – Taster Morning (11+) Saturday 6 December King’s St Alban’s – Taster Morning King’s St Alban’s Open Week 19 -23 January Saturday 24 January Senior School – General Open Morning
Confidence in a changing world
Tel: 01905 354906 Tel: 01905 721742 Tel: 01905 721742 Tel: 01905 721742 Tel: 01905 354906 Tel: 01905 354906 Tel: 01905 721742
www.ksw.org.uk
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An individual approach to education
St Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s School
Edgbaston
Give your child the very best start in life with an education at St Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s School, Edgbaston. A fully co-educational independent day school and nursery, offering a caring and friendly community for children from 4 months to18 years of age.
Excellent GCSE and A-Level results Wide range of GCSE and A-Level subjects including Sixth Form study options and support Small classes with a creative and constructive learning ethos Extensive extra-curricular and enrichment activities 11+ tuition Outstanding support for children with dyslexia Resident speech therapist
SIXTH FORM OPEN EVENING 6th November, 5pm - 7pm
ENTRANCE EXAMS FOR ENTRY TO YEAR 7 2015 13th & 15th November Please call for details
Tel: 0121 625 0398 31, Calthorpe Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 1RX Email: admissions@sgse.co.uk
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Head Boy - Jordan Henry
The literary talent of young writers Chantelle Weir and Alex Golding has been formally recognised.
Head Girl - Sea Hazbiu
Individuals are inspired at St George’s School, Edgbaston
S
t George’s School, Edgbaston, has always believed students’ learning is improved if curriculum studies are enhanced by inspirational enrichment activities. Pupils throughout the Upper School have enjoyed a rich and varied programme of extracurricular activities. The school believes activities and project-based trips encourage students to look beyond the printed page, and develop advanced literacy skills and understandings. Year 9 visited the Crescent Theatre in Birmingham for a production of John Steinbeck’s ‘Of Mice and Men’. As part of their GCSE controlled assessment, Years 10 and 11 went to the Birmingham Rep and saw a different production of the same American classic. To enhance their literature course work, Year 12 travelled to Hampshire to see R C Sherriff’s poignant war play ‘Journey’s End’. “Whilst the printed text is an obvious starting point it is hugely beneficial for students to see literature performed on stage,” says Ms Perks, Head of English. “A theatre visit is enjoyable and brings a text to life. Students gain a better understanding of the plot and
character interaction, as well as the development of key themes.”
placed to succeed in an ever changing world.”
Pupils have also enjoyed tremendous success taking part in the national Young Writer’s Mini Monologues competition - a creative and technical writing challenge.
The recently elected Head Boy and Head Girl, Jordan Henry and Sea Hazbiu, represent the student body voice. As part of their election campaign they gave their individual view of St Georges.
41 students from the school were formally recognised by the judges. Their monologues will be published in a book this December. This approach to learning leads to consistently strong examination results. At GCSE, Mathematics and English did very well with 85% of students achieved A*-C grades. The sixth form is fully subscribed, mainly by students from year eleven choosing to stay on at St George’s for their A-Level studies. The vibrant Sixth Form Centre also attracts students from other schools. Learning is enhanced by a strong community spirit and the individual attention each student receives. “Our Sixth Form provides an individual approach to post-16 study,” says Mr Loveday, Head of Sixth Form. “With a wide variety of subjects, along with planned enrichment provision, students develop into young adults who are well-
Jordan said “St. George’s is a school where every student fits in. The relationship between students and teachers is very close so getting help is easy.” Sea described St George’s as homely, adding: “Each pupil gets an immense amount of support and attention. This is why this school means a lot to me. I am educationally and emotionally attached to it.” The community spirit, excellent exam results, and unusual success in accessing higher education, makes St George’s an obvious choice for those seeking the best educational experience. 31 Calthorpe Road Birmingham B15 1RX 0121 625 0398
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What to do this November Our picks for family fun Murder Mystery Evening: “Who killed Little Willy?”
Russian Classics 12th-13th November 2014
Saturday 22nd Nov, 7.30pm
No composer puts on a show quite like Tchaikovsky - whether it’s the world’s most famous love theme in his Romeo and Juliet overture, or the high-kicking, vodka-fuelled festivities that close his shamelessly tuneful “Little Russian” Symphony. In his CBSO debut, the energetic young Spanish conductor Gustavo Gimeno should get the pulse racing - and joins Birmingham favourite Simon Trpceski in Prokofiev’s best-loved piano concerto.
Fizzog Productions invite you to solve the gruesome murder of Little Willy whose remains have been found at Avoncroft Museum, possibly a victim of the feud between the Cotterills and the Froggatts (the Midlands answer to the Montagues and Capulets!). Meet characters in the buildings around the Museum grounds and find clues to help identify the killer. The evening will involve exploring the site in darkness, so please bring a torch and dress accordingly. Tickets: £25 to include a buffet supper. Available from Fizzog Productions on www.fizzogproductions. ticketsource.co.uk The BFG 26th November to 24th January 2015 Birmingham Repertory Theatre is set to kick off the festive theatre season with a bang, with Roald Dahl’s the BFG. When Sophie is snatched from her orphanage early one morning by the BFG (Big Friendly Giant) and whisked away to his home in Giant Country, she fears for the worst. But very soon she realises that he’s not a monster, but a dream catcher who collects sweet dreams and delivers them to children. Join them on their exciting quest for dreams and experience this brand new stage show full of adventure and magic. Tickets: £7-£35 available via www. birmingham-rep.co.uk
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Tickets: £12.50-£44 available via www.cbso.co.uk or 0121 345 0600
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SAVE s t l e r s LET’S MONEY AT
N U M B E R
1
With top tips from Sarah Willingham
S
arah Willingham, Consumer Champion and Founder of Letssavemoney.com, shares her tips for how to save money when selling your property.
Do your research Before you put your property on the market do your research and look at the different ways to sell. Don’t just go for the obvious high street estate agent, there are other options available and in particular look at the online estate agents out there that offer the best of both worlds and for a much lower fee!
Shop around
Under new management Facebook/Ostlers at Number 1
Ostlers at Number 1, 1 Severn Terrace, Worcester WR1 3EH
t. 01905 21302
www.ostlersatnumber1.co.uk
Whilst it’s always easier to pay for the first surveyor that comes your way, invest time exploring and researching your options when it comes to the necessary expenses such as legal fees, surveyors and even moving costs. Instead of booking a removal team, find a good deal on a hire van, source second hand boxes and move yourself.
Pay a set price for your estate agent Using an online estate agent, one of my recommendations would be www.purplebricks.com, means that you pay a set fee which is significantly lower than the average estate agent fee of over £5,000. For example, Purplebricks charges just £665 and for that you get access to a unique online system, their local property experts and listed on all the big portals like RightMove and Zoopla.
Cut back on your monthly outgoings Making cut backs is crucial. Keeping on top of endless outgoings is hard work but evaluating your lifestyle and making small changes can be invaluable. As an example, cut down on eating out and entertain at home – any money saved can go towards moving costs. Planning meals for the week ahead means you only buy exactly what you need and nothing goes to waste, every penny saved counts!
Give your home real appeal When selling your home it’s all about appealing to the buyer. Create an illusion of space by removing obstacles that divide your house up, paint the walls in light colours to make the room feel brighter, and reflective surfaces are an easy win for any house looking to impress. First impressions really are everything.
Invest in well-designed storage Wardrobe space will always be a big draw for buyers, especially when it’s included in the purchase price. By including well-designed storage options, the buyer can easily see how much space they’ll have for their own possessions and it will make them feel confident that a room won’t need to be swallowed by large items of furniture.
Make the most of outside space Showroom at: Unit 6 Washford Trade Park, Washford Drive, Redditch
Tel: 01527 502500
Email: sales@monarchbathroomandtiles.co.uk www.monarchbathroomandtiles.co.uk
A garden, patio or balcony can be a great selling point. Invest time and even a small amount of money into sprucing up any outdoor space you have. Pot plants can instantly make a small space look more idyllic, and for a larger space, make sure nothing is looking too overgrown, as this will just make the space look and feel smaller.
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FUND SELECTION More than just past performance Tom Ware
T
he temptation when selecting funds for an investment portfolio is simply to pick those that have done well historically. However, when we select funds, we are aiming to find the funds that will perform well over the next year and beyond, and past performance is not always the best guide. There are a number of reasons why a fund might do well: the fund manager might be particularly skilled at picking the right stocks and blending them successfully in a portfolio. There are a certain number of fund managers that have shown that they can deliver strong returns year after year, who undoubtedly have skill. However, this is not the only reason: a fund may do well because a manager’s style is in favour. He may be predominantly invested in smaller cap companies at a time when investors are optimistic about economic recovery and favouring small caps, for example. This would flatter his performance against a manager investing across the market capitalisation. It is important to ensure that a manager’s performance has been as a result of judgement rather than luck. For this reason, it is important to compare like with like. It is also useful to look at a manager’s performance across different market conditions. Some managers may do well in high growth markets, others may be more defensive. Seldom will a manager perform well in every type of environment. Every portfolio needs the right manager for the job. Equally, investors should not mistake the track record of a fund for the
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track record of a manager. Managers move around relatively frequently and it is possible that the manager that generated a fund’s strong performance is no longer in place. We always look at a manager’s track record, even if this runs across several funds, rather than that of the fund itself. We like to meet managers personally, and also frequently attend conferences and seminars where they are speaking. This helps us understand the type of environment in which they are likely to do well, their strengths and weaknesses, and their current thinking.
Tom Ware
There is also a skill in blending fund managers. For a long-term portfolio, investors do not want to do the equivalent of putting all their chips on red. Defensive funds need to be balanced with higher growth funds. There also needs to be a blend across asset classes and geographic regions. That said when you have found a good manager, they are usually worth the hunt – the best active managers can make investors significantly more money than would be available from an index fund. They are hard to find, but they will reward your efforts. IMPORTANT NOTICE The descriptions of products and services in this newsletter are not recommendations, which we will only make to individuals based on their personal circumstances and needs. Investment plans and funds may involve risks to both capital and income. Past performance is not a guide to the future and the value of investment can fall as well as rise. You might not get back the full amount invested particularly if an encashment is made in the early years. The descriptions of tax rules are based on Churchill Investments’ understanding of law and HMR&C practice. Tax rules are subject to change. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Churchill Investments plc is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Churchill Investments PLC Registered in England No. 3125227 Registered Office: 9 Woodborough Road, Winscombe. BS25 1AB
01934 844444 info@churchillinvestment.co.uk www.churchillinvestment.co.uk
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We are delighted to announce the opening of our new practice in Redditch, expanding our offering across 4 locations in Worcestershire.
Bromsgrove Office Strand House, 70 The Strand, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire B61 8DQ Tel 01527 871641 Worcester Office 14 Sansome Walk, Worcester, Worcestershire WR1 1LP Tel 01905 330066 Barnt Green Office 61 Hewell Road, Barnt Green, Worcestershire B45 8NL Tel 0121 445 7373 Redditch Office First Floor, 7 Church Green East, Redditch, Worcestershire B98 8BP Tel 01527 871641
www.thomashorton.co.uk
A CHARITABLE CHRISTMAS Supporting local animal charities this festive season Hannah Griffiths
Blue Cross Blue Cross is a leading pet charity that rehomes and cares for abandoned, unwanted, ill or injured pets. The charity, with your help, strives to give every pet a healthy life in a happy home. Blue Cross offers a number of services including rehoming, veterinary care for those who can’t afford to go private and behaviour services to help newly adopted pets settle into a comfortable and happy lifestyle. The animal rehoming centre in Bromsgrove, Worcestershire is currently raising funds towards a £1.9m rebuild and this festive season you can help the charity with a donation towards the appeal. You can also purchase a gift from the Blue Cross online shop or in any of their local charity shops. To find out more about supporting Blue Cross or to purchase any of their Christmas gifts please visit their website: www.bluecross.org.uk
Dogs Trust Founded in 1891, Dogs Trust (formerly the National Canine Defence League) is the largest dog welfare charity in the UK. Each year the Dogs Trust cares for
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around 16,000 dogs at their nationwide network of 19 rehoming centres with a promise that no healthy dog is ever destroyed. This Christmas you can help support the Dogs Trust in a number of festive fun ways. The Dogs Trust Christmas Shop is open online and is selling a wide number of festive treats, from Christmas cards to gift wrap, toys and games to clothing, books and much more there’s something for everyone this Christmas with a percentage of the profits going to support the work of the Dogs Trust. For more information and to purchase your Dogs Trust Christmas gifts please visit the website. www.dogstrust.org.uk
RSPCA The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) is the UK’s leading animal welfare charity. The RSPCA as a charity aims to prevent cruelty, promote kindness and alleviate suffering of all animals. And you can help stop animal cruelty this Christmas. Selling a range of gifts that make a real difference, the RSPCA online gift shop is catering to all tastes this Christmas
from diaries and calendars, to cards and gifts and pet food and beds you’re sure to find a gift for every member of your family. For more information please visit the RSPCA website. shop.rspca.org.uk
Cats Protection Cats Protection is predominantly a volunteer-run charity that helps around 194,000 cats and kittens each year. It is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity and has between 5,000 and 6,000 cats in its care at any one time. With over 80 years of experience under its belt, the charity’s vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs. This Christmas, you can help a cat in need by purchasing pet food, bedding or cat accessories from Cats Protection’s online pet shop with the added benefit of knowing every purchase made will raise money to help Cats Protection’s brilliant charity work over the festive period. Another advantage is new customers get a 10 per cent discount on their first purchase. For more information, please visit www.cats.org.uk
PORTOFINO Ristorante Italiano
The home of exceptional Italian food, in the heart of Droitwich Open Tuesday - Sunday
6 Worcester Road, Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire WR9 8AB Tel: 01905 794 799 www.portofinodroitwich.co.uk Edge Magazine November 2014
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THE BIG HOOT
OWLS TO DESCEND ON CITY AS BIRMINGHAM PREPARES FOR BIGGEST EVER ART EVENT
B
irmingham will become a virtual aviary in 2015 as a host of feathered friends descend on the city as part of its largest ever mass participation art event. Presented by public art specialists, Wild in Art, in partnership with Birmingham Children’s Hospital ‘The Big Hoot’ will see over 100 individually designed 165cm tall owl statues appearing throughout the city over ten weeks during summer 2015, helping to showcase the wide cultural appeal of Birmingham. Funded by a host of corporate sponsors from around the region, the sculptures will be brought to life by local artists in an initiative which will provide a visually stunning trail of art, uniting businesses, residents and visitors to Birmingham whilst raising vital funds for the hospital.
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Enabling people to become a tourist in their own city, owls will be placed not only in the city centre, but in a host of locations across all ten districts of Birmingham, encouraging residents to follow the trail and discover areas of the wider region which they may not have explored before. ‘The Big Hoot’ will also see a focused citywide education programme in partnership with local schools, encouraging teachers to use creativity as a device for learning. The scheme will offer an opportunity for children to decorate 200 90cm ‘owlet’ sculptures, which will be displayed at various venues for the duration of the event, before being returned to the schools to keep as a memento of their participation. The project is the latest high profile public art project from Wild in Art,
which famously hosted a similar event in Bristol which featured various giant statues depicting Gromit of ‘Wallace and Gromit’ fame, attracting worldwide headlines. The company has also hosted exhibitions in locations ranging from Norwich to Cape Town, as well as an Olympic mascot trail ahead of London 2012, each significantly increasing footfall to the host cities, helping to give local businesses a boost whilst generating increased profile. Sarah-Jane Marsh, Chief Executive of Birmingham Children’s Hospital, said: “The Big Hoot is a hugely exciting venture for Birmingham as a city, and we at Birmingham Children’s Hospital are honoured to have been selected to benefit from the half a million pounds we hope to raise as a result.
“This donation will help to support the ground-breaking work we carry out at the hospital, but more than that, the Big Hoot will also inspire pride in our much loved city and offer families a fun and free day out exploring everything that greater Birmingham has to offer.” Sally-Ann Wilkinson, director of Wild in Art said: “We’re proud to unveil our latest project, The Big Hoot, which will be brought to life throughout Birmingham over ten weeks next summer. The initiative is designed to unite communities and boost the profile of the city as a whole, and we’re looking forward to getting started. “Our public art projects have a proven track record of increasing tourism and heightening the profile of our host cities, and we’re confident that this will continue in Birmingham, as visitors and residents alike discover the city through this unique and visually stunning artistic trail.” The launch heralds the call to invite participation from artists, schools and companies to get involved in creating a
very special and memorable event for communities and visitors alike to enjoy over next summer. With The Big Hoot set to get underway in summer 2015, local companies can get involved now by taking up one of several sponsorship packages which are up for grabs. Private equity firm, LDC was the first to sign up to a high profile association with the project. Rob Pendleton, Marketing Director said, “Wild in Art projects never fail to create an exhilarating buzz amongst regional communities, both here in the UK and internationally, and this is why LDC is once again lending its support to this very worthwhile initiative.
efforts for many years. LDC is delighted and honoured to lend its support to such a worthwhile cause which will put Birmingham in the spotlight as the place to be!” Ranging from a £6,000 owl sponsorship, enabling companies to benefit from a wide range of marketing and PR opportunities, to one of three ‘Presenting Partner’ packages, there’s a wide choice of options for businesses of all sizes. To find out more about the opportunities on offer, and for more information about the project, please visit www.thebighoot.co.uk.
“The Big Hoot will enable people from across the region to celebrate Birmingham’s rich cultural diversity, extraordinary industrial heritage and unique vibrant communities, whilst at the same time raising significant funds for Birmingham Children’s Hospital – an institution which has been a significant part of LDC’s fundraising
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CHRISTMAS SHOPPING
H
atton Shopping Village recently celebrated its 30th birthday. Since its early days as a craft centre, the independent shopping destination has evolved to meet ever changing demands and recently enjoyed a complete makeover; giving the traditional Victorian buildings a thoroughly contemporary twist whilst retaining their old world charm.
At Hatton Counrty World So if you want to avoid the high street chaos and enjoy a traditional Christmas shopping experience in a rural and tranquil Dickensian setting, Hatton Shopping Village is the place. Hatton’s NEW Christmas markets will also be open every Friday from 10am9pm, and weekend’s from 10am–6pm throughout December. Brimming with masses of wonderful festive gifts, guests
People looking for unique, inspiring or unusual gifts which can’t be found on the high street, should look no further than Hatton Shopping Village. Our wide range of exciting new boutique stores boast beautiful candles and gifts for the home, handmade bespoke pieces of jewellery and rare pieces of period or contemporary furniture. You won’t find such an array of independent specialty shops anywhere else.
can enjoy browsing the stalls, and relish in the free festive entertainment, including a visit from Father Christmas and his live reindeer and sleigh. Plus there’s free parking, roast chestnuts, carols, mulled wine and mince pies, all adding to that special Christmas shopping experience. So avoid the queues, soak up the festive atmosphere and enjoy an experience like no other. Hatton Country World, Hatton, Warwick CV35 8XA 01926 843411 hatton@hattonworld.com www.hattonworld.com Open every day 10am – 5.30pm. Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Free parking and free admission.
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Bespoke Handmade Jewellery Ransons Garden Centre and Christmas Shop
Re-styled Café and Restaurants
Plus a host of Independent, Candle, Gift and Craft shops
NEW Christmas markets -
brimming with a multitude of fantastic festive gifts ^ĂƚƵƌĚĂLJ ϮϵƚŚ EŽǀ ĂŶĚ ^ƵŶĚĂLJ ϯϬƚŚ EŽǀ͘ &ƌŝĚĂLJ ϱƚŚ͕ ^ĂƚƵƌĚĂLJ ϲƚŚ Θ ^ƵŶĚĂLJ ϳƚŚ ĞĐ͘ &ƌŝĚĂLJ ϭϮƚŚ͕ ^ĂƚƵƌĚĂLJ ϭϯƚŚ Θ ^ƵŶĚĂLJ ϭϰƚŚ ĞĐ͘ dŚƵƌƐĚĂLJ ϭϴƚŚ͕ &ƌŝĚĂLJ ϭϵƚŚ͕ ^ĂƚƵƌĚĂLJ ϮϬƚŚ Θ ^ƵŶĚĂLJ ϮϭƐƚ ĞĐ
Open 10am - 5.30pm every day
Tel: 01926 843411 ǁǁǁ͘ŚĂƚƚŽŶǁŽƌůĚ͘ĐŽŵ Hatton Country World, 5 minutes from J15 M40, 3 miles outside Warwick off A4177 Warwick - Solihull Rd.
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LOVE’S LABOUR’S WON AT THE RSC: A REVIEW Lucinda Bunn
A
utumn 1918 is when we lay our scene. Where? Charlecote Park, the English country house serving as a wartime hospital. Director Christopher Luscombe, of Spamalot fame, has paired Shakespeare’s Love’s Labour’s Lost and Love’s Labour’s Won, with the same cast in both plays, set either side of the First World War. Watch them separately or spend a day at the theatre and enjoy them in succession; as you like it.
soldiers return from war to Charlecote where Beatrice and Benedick resume their war of wit. Benedick’s friend Claudio falls for Beatrice’s cousin Hero and the pair, along with the other guests decide to play cupid with the squabbling Benedick and Beatrice. In true Shakespearean style there’s foul play, disguise and misunderstanding to contend with. But the humour is light and Luscombe’s adaptation is a celebration of life and love.
If you’re less familiar with Love’s Labour’s Won, that’s because its better known as Much Ado About Nothing and with its prequel, Shakespeare created a two-part saga of love, betrayal and war. Of course, it is a comedy and with it, all universal truths are told in playful puns and dramatic irony.
A play that is so often set in sunny Sicily, this time finds itself in the wintery English countryside at Christmas time. But there’s nothing cold about this production. There’s sherry drinking, carol singing and snowy parkland to get you in the festive mood. The enormous Christmas tree plays quite the role itself in Benedick’s dramatic and hilarious discovery of Beatrice’s ‘affection’ towards him.
Love’s Labour’s Won centres on the combative courtship of the two leads, Beatrice and Benedick, portrayed by the wonderful Michelle Terry and Edward Bennett, whose witty wordplay serves as the key motif of the play. The
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Notable performances come from the two leads as well as John Hodgkinson’s wry Prince Don Pedro, David
Horovitch’s bumbling Leonato and Frances McNamee’s teasing Ursula. Nick Haverson, who refreshes part two as Dogberry the noble but dim policeman, delivers an ingenious performance, particularly in his comically cramped kitchen. Another element of the production worth noting: the music and dancing. Composer Nigel Hess has created a dynamic arrangement to accompany the play. The music is performed live with clarinet, saxophone, violin, trumpet and horn featured, while the cast sings in harmony at several points on stage. Movement director Jenny Arnold brings fresh and fun choreography with routines that are light-hearted and relaxed, enough to make you feel like you could get up and join in. And that’s really the appeal of this production. It’s as sophisticated as it is silly. In the bleak midwinter, the RSC brings you a tale of love, levity and festive spirit.
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NEW STAFFORDSHIRE HOARD GALLERY
At the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
A
new gallery uncovering the fascinating story of the Staffordshire Hoard opened at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery last month. Principally funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) to create a permanent home for the Staffordshire Hoard in the West Midlands, the new gallery will enable visitors to learn more about this incredible treasure, from its Anglo-Saxon warrior history, to the ongoing conservation techniques used to unlock its secrets today. Hundreds of pieces from the Hoard will be on show, along with hands-on displays exploring how these intriguing items were used, before they were buried some 1400 years ago. Visitors can find out about the exquisite craftsmanship used to create the items in the hoard, and learn how the designs of the objects can be linked to many regions across Europe.
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The Staffordshire Hoard was discovered near the village of Hammerwich (Staffordshire) in 2009 by local metal detectorist Terry Herbert, with further items excavated by archaeologists in 2012. It remains Britain’s largest Treasure case, and one of the most important Anglo-Saxon finds ever made, consisting of gold, silver and garnet decorative fittings dating to the 7th century AD. Many of the pieces come from swords and other weaponry, but there are also several Christian items, as well as ‘mystery’ objects, which continue to intrigue experts and visitors alike. Younger visitors can get to grips with microscopes and see some of the unusual tools that a conservator uses while working with these precious objects. In addition, visitors can peek into Anglo-Saxon England in the ‘Mead Hall’ showing how a 7th-century Lord and his warriors once lived. Through traditional games, dressing up and story telling, young visitors will get a true feel of what it was like to live in this war-like time.
Ellen McAdam, Director of Birmingham Museums comments; “The Staffordshire Hoard is one of Birmingham’s most popular collections, and this new gallery will give visitors an even greater access to this unique find. Last year alone, over 100K people from across the world came to see the Hoard at the museum, and we look forward to welcoming many more visitors in years to come.” Reyahn King, Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund for the West Midlands, said: “We have been delighted to support the Birmingham Museums Trust with a £750,000 grant, in its quest to create a new permanent gallery for Britain’s largest Anglo-Saxon treasure trove found to date. We are now able to see hundreds of items from this magnificent hoard on display here in the West Midlands where it was found, thanks to lottery players and huge support from the local community and beyond.”
acquired in 2010 by the Birmingham Museums Trust (BMT) and the Potteries Museum and Art Gallery (PM&AG) with the generous support of the Art Fund and the National Heritage Memorial Fund, as well as the UK’s largest ever, public donation. Development of the new gallery has been made possible thanks to funding by Heritage Lottery Fund, Garfield Weston and Arts Council England. Birmingham Museums Trust is continuously fundraising for the
conservation of and research into this unique find. To support the Staffordshire Hoard, you can call the Development department on 0121 348 8293, visit www.justgiving. com/Staffordshire-Hoard or texting STAF09 £5 to 70070. To find out more visit www.staffordshirehoard.org.uk
The Staffordshire Hoard is jointly owned by Birmingham City Council and Stoke-on-Trent City Council. It was
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Worcester Road WR9 8AY 5 bedroom homes from £349,995
Bromsgrove
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0845 230 1219
Church Meadows Church Lane, Catshill B61 0JY 3 and 4 bedroom homes from £199,995
0845 230 8351
Harrison Park
0845 230 8351 Stratford Leys
Bishopton Lane CV37 0UG 3, 4 and 5 bedroom homes from £369,995
Ask about our purchase assistance schemes
Home Exchange
If you’ve a home to sell we could be your buyer*
Help to Buy
With a 5% deposit and only 75% * mortgage required
NewBuy
New 95% mortgage scheme backed by the Government and provided by major high-street lenders*
Smooth Move
We pay your estate agents fees*
0845 260 4827
Warwick
Chase Meadow Narrow Hall Meadow CV34 6LA 3, 4, 5 and 6 bedroom homes from £267,995 - £524,995
0845 260 4829
www.bovishomes.co.uk Illustration and photographs depict typical Bovis Homes. *The Help to Buy scheme has specific terms and conditions and is subject to affordability criteria as prescribed by the homes and communities agency. Not to be used in conjunction with another purchase assistance scheme. Purchase assistance schemes are subject to terms, conditions and availability, are not available in conjunction with any other offer and are on selected plots and developments. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE. Please see sales advisor for further details.
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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
Minimal maintenance
There’s nothing quite like moving into a pristine, new home that’s clean and untouched by previous hands. As the very first owner, a new Bovis Home gives you a completely fresh start so you can create your own style and begin a new life!
With a new Bovis Home, all the hard work is done for you. Your property will be newlydecorated and include a stylish fitted kitchen with integrated appliances – they’ll even wire them up for you and show you how they work! Buy a new home and you can wave goodbye to those DIY weekends and relax. Your 10-year industry warranty is backed up by a two-year Bovis Homes customer support service, which includes 24-hour, 365-day a year call-out cover for any emergencies.
More for your money A brand new Bovis Home comes with an ‘all inclusive’ specification, which means you get a contemporary new kitchen, integrated appliances, fitted wardrobes in many bedrooms and a number of other extras, all included in the price. And it’s not all about great specification – their independently rated five-star customer quality and service also comes as standard.
Rest assured Every Bovis Home has a 10-year ‘Buildmark’ warranty provided by the National House Building Council (NHBC), which covers any major defects to the structure of the property, or in its construction. Bovis Homes also include their own two-year warranty on the property, with a great customer care service, should any issues arise – giving you further peace of mind.
Energy efficient Thanks to modern standards of insulation and technology, new homes are now on average up to 60% more energy efficient than older houses. This means a new property could save you more than £500 a year on fuel costs* and is six times more effective in its CO2 emissions – so it’s helping reduce your carbon footprint.
Designs for life The layouts of Bovis Homes evolve to meet the changing needs and different lifestyles of their customers. Whether it’s open plan apartments, family living space, room for home working or the privacy of a master suite, a new Bovis Home can be contemporary, purpose-designed and built for specific needs.
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.
A wealth of choice New Bovis Homes developments offer a wide range and choice of homes, from one and twobedroom apartments and coach houses, to threestorey living and spacious, detached family homes.
No chains attached Buying a new home straight from Bovis Homes can prove a much simpler process than buying a second-hand property. Your new home will be ready to move straight into with no worries over other owners moving out, delaying their completion dates, or pulling out of the sale altogether. And if you want a quick and simple way to sell your existing home, they could even buy that from you too through their Home Exchange scheme.
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.
A New Beginning The Museum of Royal Worcester
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T
he Museum of Royal Worcester houses a world famous collection of porcelain and fine bone china and welcomes thousands of visitors from every corner of the world each year. Its ceramic collections extend from 1751 until the closure of Royal Worcester in 2009. In the early days porcelain was only owned by the very wealthy and, if we think back to the working conditions of the eighteenth century, it is truly remarkable that such intricate and complex shapes were designed, made, decorated and still survive today. The factory soon gained a name for quality and one of the main strengths the company was able to build on was that that Worcester’s teapots could withstand boiling water without cracking! These pots became prized possessions and today our ‘best’ china punctuates our lives and brings back memories of Christenings, Wedding Days and special occasions. But, the museum is about much, much more than the pots on shelves; it houses collections of copper plates, photographs, production records, design material, film and a stunning resource of living memories told in the ‘Workers’ History Audio Story’. Today staff are working hard on plans to refurbish the galleries and introduce much of the ‘hidden material’; they aim to package the information in a fresh and modern way in order to improve the displays and attract new audiences and collectors of the future.
To this end a whole series of exciting events are planned; they include quarterly identification and valuation days with Museum Patron Henry Sandon, MBE, children’s hands-on practical days, schools programmes, quizzes, lectures, the launch of a walking tour that links the city center’s heritage locations and a performance to celebrate Ben Parker’s Poet in Residency. The museum also has a shop which sells vintage and antique Royal Worcester where you can find special gifts for all people of all ages and for all occasions. Over 200 past Royal Worcester workers have returned to help identify photographs and share memories and 20 volunteers have joined forces with the museum; their research is invaluable and their discoveries are hugely interesting. For example we now know that around 1800-1810, geese were used to guard the gold used for gilding in the factory ‘rich room’. The geese were replaced annually, just after the Michaelmas festival, when it appears they may well have been eaten! Throughout all the public consultation the overriding theme for Royal Worcester is one of pride, whether it be from the workers, citizens of Worcester or those who own and use this special commodity. To find out more please visit www.museumofroyalworcester.org
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WAGON HOUSE GARDENS
Choose from a selection of fresh or everlasting wreaths and table decorations
Jinney Ring Craft Centre Hanbury Road Hanbury Bromsgrove Worcestershire B60 4BU
Handmade fresh arrangements with beautiful everlasting velvet roses
Unusual garden stoneware for that difficult gift
New season bird nesting boxes now available. Handmade with that exclusive Fat Bird Crafts makeover. Ideal present for the bird lover at Christmas. An excellent choice of hand blended bird food also available.
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POP OF CULTURE Eleanor Bate
Marcus Brigstocke: ‘Je M’Accuse-I Am Marcus’ Friday 14th at 8pm at Evesham Arts Centre. Tickets £15 Marcus Brigstoke: Podium dancer, oil rig worker, food addict, musical theatre enthusiast, posh, eco-hypocrite, ex-Goth, muppet fan, award winning comedian and chief beverages operator at the Little Chef...Screw politics-let’s talk about me! Another great night of comedy from one of the sharpest acts on TV, stage, radio...Min age 16. Evesham Arts Centre, Worcestershire WR11 4QH 01386 48883 www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk
Shakespeare’s Othello Wednesday 12 to Saturday 15 November
Frantic Assembly’s awardwinning production of Shakespeare’s Othello comes to Birmingham Repertory Theatre from 12 to 15 November. Frantic Assembly’s Othello explodes onto the stage with this electrifying take on Shakespeare’s most gripping and brutal thriller-tragedy of paranoia, jealousy, sex and murder. Fusing a taut adaption of the classic text with its trademark hardhitting choreography, Frantic Assembly takes a scalpel to 21st century Britain, exposing prejudice, danger and fear. Set in Yorkshire during the race riots of 2001, a time
British Folk Art Exhibition Compton Verney Art Gallery in Warwickshire (until 14th December)
This exhibition brings together examples by a number of prominent individuals, such as George Smart the tailor of Frant, embroiderer Mary Linwood, and Cornish painter Alfred Wallis in order to reevaluate the important role folk art has played in shaping British culture. Spanning the 17th to the 20th century, objects on display range from rustic leather Toby jugs to brightly coloured ships’ figureheads. Jesse Maycock’s thatched figure
which saw terrible divisions and some unexpected alliances. Othello’s passionate affair with Desdemona leaves him open to jealousy and attack-with devastating consequences. Violence is a way of life and attack is everything. The production will be directed by Scott Graham, Artistic Director of Frantic Assembly, who won the TMA Award for best direction for the original production in 2008. Broad St, Birmingham, West Midlands B1 2EP O121 236 4455 www.birmingham-rep.co.uk
of King Alfred from 1960 is joined by maritime embroidery by fisherman John Craske, a pin cushion made by wounded soldiers during the Crimean war and shop signs in the shape of over-sized pocket watches and giant shoes. A brilliant exhibition that delves right into the history of Britain via art. This is an event not to be missed! Compton Verney Art Gallery, South Warwickshire CV35 9HZ 01926 645500 www.comptonverney.org.uk
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What: Hal Cruttenden – The Tough Luvvie Tour Where: Huntingdon Hall When: 14th November 2014 Following stand out performances on Live At The Apollo (BBC1), Have I Got News For You (BBC1), The Royal Variety Performance (ITV1), and Mock The Week (BBC2), Hal is being strongly tipped as the next big thing. Footballers, Facebook and food are just three of the topics Hal devours with his unique mix of camp and straight, warm and catty humour. www.worcesterlive.co.uk
What: Toy and Collectors Fair Where: Heritage Motor Centre When: 23rd November 2014
What: Dawn French- 30 Million Minutes Tour Where: Butterworth Hall When: 3rd December 2014 Award-winning actor, best-selling novelist and all round very funny lady, Dawn French, has written a new show, 30 Million Minutes, based on her life and career. Join the Queen of British comedy on her first ever solo tour! 30 Million Minutes will consist of various delights and riches, with the odd irksome tribulation thrown in, as Dawn takes audiences through the various lessons life has taught her, and the things she knows for sure. www.warwickartscentre.co.uk
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Join us for the third Toy and Collectors Fair at the Heritage Motor Centre, Gaydon, with over 100 tables from all over the UK. There will be thousands of old and new toys, trains models and collectables for sale including some big brand names past and present. The fair will also host Memorabilia, Antique Advertising and Collectables such as enamel signs, showcards, rare old bottles, pot lids, breweriana and kitchenalia. www.heritage-motor-centre.co.uk
What: Clay Barn Winter Exhibition ‘Contemporary Classics’ Where: Clay Barn, Redhill When: 28th November to 1st December 2014 A four day exhibition, open to all, seven artists showing seven disciplines - at Clay Barn - a delightfully informal and welcoming venue, and with Christmas not so far away this exhibition is the perfect opportunity to find that special something for your family & friends, or simply enjoy meeting the artists and learning about their work. www.louisedarby.co.uk
What: Christmas Fair Where: Cheltenham College When: 23rd November 2014 Wrap up Christmas before December at an exclusive Shopping Event. With over 70 varied exhibitors selling everything from jewellery and clothing to chocolates and beer, there’s something for everybody including those hard-to-buy-for family members at the Cheltenham College Christmas Fair. Book by 17 November to receive a complimentary glass of ‘fizz’ on the day. www.exploregloucestershire. co.uk
GI F T S H O P SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN!
Selling exquisite vintage and antique Royal Worcester:
China & porcelain Gifts Table ware
Cake stands Figurines Collectables
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Museum of Royal Worcester Severn Street, Worcester WR1 2ND
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rcester.org Cal o w l l fo ya o rd r f o eta m u i ls se :
Open Monday to Saturday 10 am – 4 pm Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day
‘Royal Worcester’ and the C51 crown device are registered by and used under kind permission from Portmeirion Group UK Ltd to whom all rights are reserved.
What: Dreamboats and Miniskirts Where: Belgrade Theatre When: 10th-15th November 2014 It’s 1963 and the world is changing. Bobby and Laura’s single “Dreamboats and Petticoats” has not taken off. Norman and Sue have settled down to non-marital bliss – and a baby! But Ray and Donna seem blissfully happy. The advent of The Beatles and the ‘Mersey Sound’ is inspirational. Will it inspire Bobby and Laura to have one more shot at stardom, Norman to “get off the drains” and find that singing voice he has longed for and for Ray to realise his ambition and manage a really top pop act! All will be revealed in a follow up with the same wit, charm, and great songs as the 2011 sell-out Dreamboats and Petticoats. www.belgrade.co.uk
What: Side By Side - Still Breaking the Rules Where: Royal Spa Centre When: 24th to 25th November 2014 Warwickshire’s award winning theatre company for adults with learning disabilities returns for its 26th Year, to prove that it is still breaking the rules with a show full of live music, dance, comedy, poetry and drama. www.warwickdc.gov.uk
What: The BFG Where: The Rep When: 26th November 2014 to 24th January 2015 When Sophie is snatched from her orphanage early one morning by the BFG (Big Friendly Giant) and whisked away to his home in Giant Country, she fears for the worst. But very soon she realises that he’s not a monster, but a dream catcher who collects sweet dreams and delivers them to children. That night, Sophie joins the BFG on an exciting quest for dreams but they are pursued wicked giants, the Bloodbottler and the Fleshlumpeater, with one thing on their minds, to steal and eat “human beans”, especially children! www.birmingham-rep.co.uk
What: The Nutcracker Where: Birmingham Hippodrome When: 28th November- 13th December 2014 Let yourself get swept up in the excitement of Christmas with one of the most famous classical ballets of all time, Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker. What more could a young girl ask for at Christmas, than for all her dreams to come true? Having crept downstairs at midnight to play with her new Nutcracker doll, Clara is swept up in a fantasy of toy soldiers, giant rats, snow fairies, magic and mystery. After saving her beloved Nutcracker from the King of the Rats, she is whisked away to an enchanted land and dances the night away in his arms, meeting a host of strange and exotic characters, before she is finally transformed into a beautiful ballerina. www.birminghamhippodrome.com
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What's on at the Heart of England Galleries The Barber Institute of Fine Arts â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Rebel Visions 24th October 2014 until 25th January 2015 Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery- After the Goldrush until 11th January 2015 Compton Verney- Art from Ammunition: Trench Art from the First World War until 14th December 2014 Herbert Art GalleryPeople of India; Photographs by Jason Scott Tilley until 11th January 2015 Ikon Gallery- Julian Opie Ikon Icon 2000s 19th November - 25th January 2015 mac- Qasim Riza ShaheenThe last known pose until 30th November 2014 RBSA- Birmingham and Beyond 19th November 2014 - 24th December 2014 Wolverhampton Art Gallery- Art of the Troubles until 27th February 2015 The New Art GalleryMartin Parr - Black Country Stories until 11th January 2015
www.heartofenglandgalleries.org.uk
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What: The Woman in Black Where: Everyman Theatre When: 3rd to 8th November 2014 Unanimously acclaimed by the critics, The Woman in Black delivers an evening of unremitting drama, transporting the audience into a terrifying and ghostly world. A lawyer engages a sceptical young actor to help him tell his terrifying story and exorcise the feat that grips his soul. It all begins innocently enough, but as they reach further into his darkest memories the borders between make believe and reality begin to blur and the flesh begins to creep...
What: Audience with Eric Knowles Where: Ragley Hall When: 11th November 2014 Eric Knowles and James Nicholson FGA, DGA (Deputy Chairman and International Head of Jewellery, Silver & Watches Department) will be valuing pieces of jewellery, silver, watches, coins, pens, Lalique and Decorative Arts items here at Ragley Hall. The day will run in two valuation sessions, morning and afternoon, followed by a talk entitled “Rene Lalique - Master Jeweller, Master Glass Maker”.
www.everymantheatre.org.uk
www.ragley.co.uk
What: Noel Fielding Where: Symphony Hall When: 20th November 2014 Noel Fielding, star of the late lamented The Mighty Boosh, Never Mind The Buzzcocks and Luxury Comedy, comes to Symphony Hall as part of his first live tour in five years: An Evening With Noel Fielding. Enjoy a magical mix of Noel’s unique brand of stand up comedy, live animation, music and some of his best known TV characters, as he is ably supported by the loose stylings of Mike Fielding (Naboo/ Smooth) and the physical lunacy of Tom Meeten (The Mighty Boosh/ Oram & Meeten). www.thsh.co.uk
What: Ken Dodd Where: New Alexandra Theatre When: 22nd November 2014 2014 marks the 60th anniversary year of Ken Dodd’s incredible career as a professional entertainer. He is a comedian of legendary status; an icon and national treasure who has been entertaining audiences for a lifetime
What: Royal String Quartet Where: Artrix When: 21st November 2014 We welcome back this pre-eminent Polish string quartet who have played at Bromsgrove twice before. This time they bring a new work by the leading
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of happiness and laughter. Come and enjoy his famous Happiness Show and you’ll be absolutely discumknockerated (that’s Knotty Ash for ‘over the moon’) by a truly tattifelarius (funfilled) evening of laughter and songs presented by a comedy genius. www.atgtickets.com/birmingham
Polish composer Pawel Szymanski specially written for them. Around that we have two classic works of Mozart and Beethoven, with as much to say to us now as when they were first written. www.artrix.co.uk
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FREE ADMISSION 0121 414 7333 www.barber.org.uk Visit by train: University station
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Edge Magazine November 2014
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