Edge Magazine May/June 2012 Edition

MAY 2012 FREE EDITION

Your essential guide to WARWICKSHIRE, WORCESTERSHIRE & THE WEST MIDLANDS

SO BRITISH Birmingham Gin Handcrafted Furniture 1930's Cinema

SIMON ARMITAGE At the Stratford Literary Festival

DAIRY MILK Known and loved by all

ASPARAGUS SEASON The Queen of vegetables

FOOD & DRINK

.

CULTURE

.

BUSINESS

.

IN YOUR COUNTY

.

LIFESTYLE

01386 841123 mspa@mail.com Lapstone Westington Hill Chipping Campden GL55 6EG

THE ULTIMATE IN PAMPERING SPA RITUALS AND TUB JOURNEYS LUXURY FACIALS INDULGENT MASSAGE AND BODY TREATMENTS IMMACULATE PEDICURES AND MANICURES FLAWLESS SUNLESS TAN MAKE UP AND BRIDAL SPECIALISTS EXCLUSIVE USE FOR BRIDAL SHOWERS AND SPECIAL OCCASIONS ADVANCED NON SURGICAL AGE REVERSAL

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE FOR A PERFECT PAMPERING PRESENT.

Fourteen amazing zones One fantastic day out 0844 880 7667 or visit cadburyworld.co.uk

Book now on

20183601 CW February Press_271x184.indd 1

07/02/2012 12:12

EDITOR'S BIT

Welcome to the May issue of Edge Magazine, our third edition so far. Has it really been that many already? Time just flies by so quickly nowadays. As usual, we have tried to bring you an interesting mix of topics from around the counties. The line up includes articles on charitable foundations, innovative British furniture design, a tipple or two and the Stratford Literary Festival.

As spring progresses, the days are getting longer; flowers are blooming, birds are tweeting and the hedgerows are starting to get their familiar summer colour. Pretty soon we’ll while away the long summer evenings, sitting in the local beer garden – possibly my favourite place.

If you like what you see in the magazine, I would like to take this opportunity to ask for your support by liking our Facebook page and following us on Twitter, as well as checking out our website at www. edgemagazine.org. I would also like to thank all the members of the Edge Magazine team, who have worked incredibly hard to put this fantastic edition together for you, as well as the contributors who have also provided us with ideas and stories. Without all of their efforts, we could not bring you such a diverse magazine.

On behalf of the whole team at Edge Magazine, have a wonderful May and we hope to see you all again for our next edition.

Michael Abu-Zalaf

FEATURES BIRMINGHAM GIN...........................................17 ASPARAGUS SEASON......................................60

SIMON ARMITAGE..........................................08

HANDCRAFTED FURNITURE..............................38

DAIRY MILK...................................................64 HOW TO ADD VALUE TO YOUR HOME...............74

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by contributors to, and staff of Edge Magazine may not represent the views and opinions of the publishers. Edge Magazine takes no responsibility for claims made in advertisements, editorials, or advertorials in the magazine. No part of Edge Magazine may be reproduced or copied in any way without the prior written consent of MLP Publishing Ltd.

April 2012 3

CONTENTS Bill Mack

6

the non-Surgical facelift

52

Stratford literary feStival 2012

8

exerciSe advice for BuSy people

56

cardiac riSk in the young

14

paxton and whitfield

58

M Spa

18

celeBrate with treeS

62

the regal

20

any occaSion cakeS

66

Stan'S cafe

21

worceSter MuSic feStival

68

titanic

22

tiMe in

70

chokolit

26

feckenhaM flower and garden feStival

72

diaMondS are forever

29

lorenzo’S cariBBean Jerk chicken

73

how to BecoMe a Money Magnet

32

BeSpoke quality with reBate conServatorieS

76

the MenzieS hotel

34

BathrooM city

78

MitSuBiShi to launch electric vehicle centreS

37

confeSSionS of a colour addict

80

hair today, gone toMorrow

40

the Stratford fringe feStival

82

volkSwagen

42

ShelSley walSh hill cliMB

84

Join our teaM

44

the elMS hotel

86

friendShip care and houSing

46

in your county

88

cariBBean cuiSine

50

STAY UP TO DATE

@WeAreEdge

THE TEAM Michael Abu-Zalaf - Editor

@ZalafAbu - michael@edgemagazine.org

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

David Lincoln-Lewis - Commercial Director @dla_HQ - david@edgemagazine.org

Tom Kolodotschko - Creative & Digital Director @dotschko - tom@edgemagazine.org

facebook.com/

Eileen O'Kane - Accounts Manager

WeAreEdgeMagazine

Lucie Lincoln-Lewis - Sales Executive

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK

INFO@EDGEMAGAZINE.ORG 01789 269812

Lucinda Bunn - Copy Editor

CONTRIBUTORS Rob Price

Alex Chambers

April 2012 5

www.edgemagazine.org Bill Mack

BILL MACK Hollywood Sculptor Lucinda Bunn

B

Mack cutS a pretty extraordinary figure, both in his appearance and his work. He enjoys one of the most successful and high profile careers in the world of American contemporary art. With his charismatic flair and distinctive personal style, mustachioed Mack has been creating mind-blowing sculptures and paintings for over thirty five years.

Perhaps due to his obsession with popular culture and his continued idolism of Hollywood icons, fans of his work include Bill Clinton, Sylvester Stallone, Elton John and the late Elizabeth Taylor. Mack has become somewhat of a celebrity himself. Known for his symbolic trademark of wearing a fresh rose in his lapel, this guy is as eccentric as he is brilliant. ill

His success must have seemed unlikely, living in Minneapolis as a boy. He painted on weekends for extra money during the school term and only tried sculpting at the age of seventeen. At this point, he was working as a designer for a company that specialised in bronze relief tablets. When a colleague’s work fell short, Mack stepped in to pick up the slack. Shortly after, he quit his job and began working as a freelance relief sculptor.

What he lacked in formal training, he made up for in experience working with different materials, from cast bronze, to more modern substances such as resins, silicones and acrylics. When he made his transition to the galleries, Mack possessed a great deal of technical knowledge to complement his unique talents.

Mack’s big break came with his debut exhibition in New York, and now, nearly four decades later, he has had exhibitions in Tokyo, England, Germany and France.

His artwork is sold in four continents and he’s often regarded as ‘the finest sculptor in the world today’. It’s not often that you can say something is truly unique but Mack uses a technique he has developed himself. He creates lightweight framed artwork which encompasses a combination of various levels of relief, with the appearance of being cast in solid bronze. ‘Calling my artwork bas-relief is incorrect, since bas-relief refers to low relief sculpture’, he says, ‘my art has more physical depth than high relief. Technically, sculptures combining various levels of relief and full-round parts are called alto relief sculptures’, he explains. Similar techniques were used in ancient Greek and Roman architecture. His signature style has drawn comparisons with ‘Romantic Realism’, particularly his sculptures of the female form; with their emotional beauty and soulful dignity, inspired by the pre-Raphaelite paintings of the 19th century.

Mack’s figures are updated with an athletic physique, a

6

April 2012

step away from the classic beauties.

Interestingly, Mack is an avid collector himself. He boasts an assortment of classic paintings by Chagall and Picasso, not to mention his love for rare memorabilia.

Mack owns costumes from several of his favourite American movies, including the cowardly lion’s costume, featured in the 1939 fantasy film, The Wizard of Oz and the coat Clark Gable wore in Gone With The Wind. Most notably, Mack bought the original Hollywood sign back in 2005. Built in 1923 on Mount Lee, the Hollywood sign, which actually read ‘Hollywoodland’ unlike its replacement, personified the culture of the American film industry. There is a mysterious nature to its history.

Many young actors and actresses would touch the metal letters for good luck but English stage and screen actress Peg Entwhistle leapt from the top of the letter ‘H’, to her death in 1932. The actress was struggling to find her feet in the harsh world of Hollywood. In a cruel twist of irony, a letter to Peg arrived the day after her tragic suicide, offering her the lead role in a play.

After buying the sign, Mack has used the metal pieces to create artwork depicting the golden stars of Hollywood; chosen for their success but also for their ill-fated deaths, as Marilyn Monroe and James Dean both make an appearance.

If you are interested in taking a look at Bill Mack’s extraordinary artwork, Andy Seger of J & A Fine Art, has a fantastic display at his gallery in Tanworth-in-Arden. J & A Fine Art showcases 30 pieces of Mack's 3D artwork, in a homey atmosphere. It’s the best way to view it, as Mack uses warm tones and bronze pieces to create his striking reliefs. Each piece reveals a story that spills out of the frame; with recurring themes of passion, longing and happiness. Mack is an emotional being- that much is clear- but the way the depth of the sculptures reflects the depths of their themes is truly poetic.

Bill Mack’s artwork can be viewed exclusively at J & A Fine Art. n www.jandafineart.co.uk J & A Fine Art, Stoneford, Woodend Lane, West Midlands, B94 5DT

April 2012 7

www.edgemagazine.org Stratford Literary Festival 2012

STRATFORD LITERARY FESTIVAL 2012 S Lucinda Bunn

tratford iS without a doubt, the most famous literary town in the world. But this April, we’re putting Shakespeare on the backburner for a minute.

Yeah, we said it. We still love Shakespeare; we still worship Shakespeare, in fact. But you may be surprised to find out, that there are other poets and playwrights who are pretty marvellous too. And they’re still alive.

How novel.

Bees was directly and fervently influenced by her loss.

This performance is a must-see at this year’s festival.

Now, if you’re a poet or you’d like to find out more about the skill of writing poetry, the Stratford Literary Festival 2012 has a treat for you. Simon Armitage, winner of the Keats-Shelley Poetry Prize 2010, will be divulging his writing secrets to a select few, lucky listeners.

If you have been hiding under a rock for the last twenty years, then you might not know who Simon Armitage is, although, if you’ve taken your GCSEs recently, you definitely will. His off the cuff, urban style and comedic timings are never far from the National Curriculum.

Armitage has written over a dozen poetry collections, two novels, countless radio programmes and several bits for TV. We caught up with him to find out about his style, humour and his dark side.

How would you describe your style of poetry?

Contemporary I guess. I think any poet feels they’re doing something normal, something automatic to them.

What does it mean to you to be a Yorkshireman?

›

Stratford is about to host its 5th Literary Festival in as many years, and it’s set to be even bigger and better than the last. The selection of events will take place over six days in April, kicking off on the 22nd with a discussion held by journalist and broadcaster Maziar Bahari, on his harrowing experiences in Iran’s most notorious gaol.

The Stratford Literary Festival made its debut in 2008. The brainchild of Annie Ashworth and Natasha Roderick-Jones, it offers a rare opportunity for readers to meet their favourite authors and poets. The festival celebrates the spoken and written word, with author and panel talks, workshops and story-telling. Previous festivals have included guest performances from poet Felix Dennis and novelist Jodi Picoult, to violinist Tasmin Little and comedian Jack Dee. But this year’s festival is going to be slightly different.

Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy will be performing the witty, passionate and often elegiac poems from her most recent collection, The Bees. Duffy is known widely for her bold and free style as seen in her previous works, The World’s Wife (a collection giving voice to the women beside-and not behind- famous men, including Anne Hathaway, Mrs Quasimodo and Queen Kong) and not to mention her highly acclaimed, oh-so unashamedly lyrical, ode to love, Rapture.

The Bees is Duffy’s first collection since becoming Poet Laureate in 2009. After the death of her mother in 2005, she could, she said, for the longest while write no poems except those for children. Evidently, writing The

8

April 2012

Jonty Wilde

Italian Cookery School, party catering, weddings, hampers & Supper Club “Such a joy to eat fabulous local food, cleverly cooked with a love and knowledge of the good things in life� www.squisito-deli.co.uk

NEW THIS SEASON

Chopard

- Exclusive to Harrisons Opticians Stratford-upon-Avon

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

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

• Luxurious

OTHER COLLECTIONS

• Sophisticated

• Tom Ford • Roberto Cavalli • Mont Blanc

• Prada • Maui Jim • Oakley

• Timeless • Exclusive designs representing the iconic fashion house of Chanel

57 Ely Street | Stratford upon Avon

Tel 01789 268828 www.harrisons-opticians.co.uk

I was at a party in Sussex the other week, I was talking to someone about an adaptation of The Odyssey I wrote and how I’d sailed from Troy to Ithaca. They laughed and said ‘it’s just funny with your accent’. And before I felt offended, I said ‘I haven’t got an accent’. I mean I do write about this county but I don’t think I really represent it. I like the high density urban landscape next to the remote moors. I think it’s a healthy territory to be in.

You’ve written a lot of poems about the Twin Towers – what compels you to comment on current affairs?

There are moments as a poet when you feel a burden of responsibility. It’s about getting poems in the public domain. I wrote a film length poem about it. There’s a bit about someone out on the ledge, with the fury of smoke cascading around them. The 9/11 jumpers have always been a bit of a taboo subject. But poetry can inhabit those taboos more than any other writing form.

Poetry can be more courageous.

Your poems are pretty dark. Would you rate yourself as a dark person?

Actually, I think most people would describe me as happy-go-lucky. My poetry has humour in it. Some of

that is dark humour but it’s a light touch. When I’m writing, I’m often alone for long periods of time. And it takes a lot of concentration, so maybe my thoughts do tend to sink (he laughs). I worked as a probation officer for a while; it’s a bleak world and maybe that comes through sometimes.

Is it important for your poems to have a subversive message?

Not necessarily. We’re quite sophisticated as readers, so it’s got to be subtle. I think poetry itself is subversive; it’s dissenting. As poets, we’re the awkward squad.

Is it always vital to understand a poet’s intentions?

I think most poets signal what their poems are about, kind of like stage direction. It is possible to get a poem wrong, and poems can be obscure but I think if you spend enough time with my poems, you’ll understand my intentions. Moments in poems can be so personal they’re not transparent, but I don’t think that’s very often in my poems.

How did you become a poet? Were you always good with words?

No, quite the opposite. I come from a very gobby family,

April 2012 11

›

www.edgemagazine.org Stratford Literary Festival 2012 with a lot of characters who always have something to say for themselves. I think I was always off the pace. I wrote because I didn’t have a comeback or a witty retort. I came back twenty years later with a poem instead (he laughs). I think the language I use comes from the male line in my family. My father is an extrovert, he works with language. On the maternal side, I think the permission to write came through. My mother is obsessed with crossword puzzles, whenever I go round to the house, she’s always sat at the kitchen table, glasses half way down her nose, with a crossword puzzle. I think poetry is a bit like a puzzle, getting an idea and trying to find the right words to fit around each other.

Shakespeare’s Birthday Festival 12

April 2012

I

t’S

You’ve praised Alex Turner’s lyrics, which other artists do you admire?

I admire anyone who writes with wit; Morrissey, Bob Dylan. I used to like a band called Prefab Sprout. I think they just went further with lyric writing. I also like rap music; some of it is mesmerising. I like the way words that don’t rhyme are made to rhyme. I also like Gershwin and Cole Porter.

Are you enjoying your professorship at the University of Sheffield?

Yeah, it’s great! I was at Manchester Metropolitan

ShakeSpeare’S Birthday and Stratford is throwing a party; cue mad dash to the supermarket for 400-odd candles. The festivities begin on the 23rd of April and run until the 8th of May. Now, if you haven’t attended before, then we suggest you don’t miss this year’s extravaganza; the streets of Stratford will be bursting with colourful spectacles.

We have been celebrating old Bill’s birthday for quite some time now, nearly two centuries, in fact. The festival today plays out many of the traditions from the Georgian era; the flag ceremony, wearing rosemary in remembrance and the laying of the flowers on Shakespeare’s grave.

The procession on the 30th will

for about twelve years. Sheffield Uni’s got a different outlook. The city is a different beast. I’ve got very supportive colleagues, we’re looking to really build the creative writing department, and I’ve got a little office overlooking the A57 (he laughs). I’m comfortable here; it’s kind of like coming home I suppose.

What can we expect from your workshop at the Stratford Literary Festival?

a keener sense of what contemporary poetry is. You have to read it. It’s often about bringing examples and developing a vocabulary. I like the workshops though, they’re always full of passion and energy and you can talk for hours on a couple of lines. I’m really looking forward to it. n www.stratfordliteraryfestival.co.uk

Blood, sweat and tears (he laughs). Well, sometimes we look at existing writing, and look at the nitty gritty of people’s writing, and I sort of direct attention to certain techniques and inspiration. I think it’s important to gain

be led by the Band of the Corps of Royal Engineers, international dignitaries, school children, performance artists and community groups. There’s entertainment and activities for all; from puppet shows for the kids to Tudor players bringing the theatrical fun. And there will be cake at Shakespeare’s birthplace and the other

Shakespeare houses too. To be or not to be there? No question.

World Shakespeare Festival 23rd April-Nov 2012 Shakespeare’s birthday also kicks off the World Shakespeare Festival.

As part of The London Cultural Olympiad, the UK will play host to 70 productions, including thousands

of artists from across the globe. The supporting events and exhibitions will be held in Stratford-Upon-Avon, Newcastle, Birmingham, Wales and Scotland.n www.worldshakespearefestival.org.uk/about/

April 2012 13

www.edgemagazine.org Cardiac risk in the young

CARDIAC RISK IN THE YOUNG

Screening Saves Lives

E

one family in the UK, will suffer the trauma of losing a young (35 and under) person to an undiagnosed heart condition. Current statistics estimate this to be around 12 deaths a week – although experts fear this could just be the tip of the iceberg. very day at leaSt

Alison Cox MBE, Chief Executive and Founder of the charity, Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY) talks exclusively to Edge Magazine about the devastating impact of these hidden heart conditions.

“Sudden death syndrome strikes down hundreds of young people in the prime of their lives - many of whom will have been actively involved in sport.

“Sport does not cause the problem - but it can exacerbate a pre-existing, undiagnosed condition. 80% of those who die have no symptoms, so the only way to identify who is at risk, is through screening.

“CRY is not about scaremongering or putting youngsters off physical activity. On the contrary, many of our celebrity patrons (such as Sir Steve Redgrave, Sir Ian Botham and John Inverdale) are from the world of sport and we all believe that staying fit and active and developing an enthusiasm for sport is vital.

ADVERTORIAL

“Sadly though, here at CRY, we are all too aware of the number of young people dying suddenly whilst taking part in the sport that they love. And, far too many of these cases could have been prevented.

“Scott Rennie from Worcestershire, died suddenly and unexpectedly from an undiagnosed heart condition aged just 25, in March 2009. An aspiring Olympic rower, Scott died whilst warming up on a rowing machine at his local rowing club. Since then his parents Stevie and Stephen have been working to raise awareness of sudden cardiac deaths in young people. In 2010, they funded a specialist screening day in Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, as part of our pioneering ‘testmyheart’ cardiac screening programme.

“Thanks to the fundraising efforts of the Rennies and other families like them, CRY continues to test well over

14

April 2012

8,500 young people every year.

“So, as we near the start of London 2012, CRY remains committed to giving young people access to specialist screening - regardless of the sport they excel in. We know that all our athletes, competing under the ‘Team GB’ banner, will have been offered a screening but it is the next generation of athletes we need to focus on.

“We cannot be passive whilst this is happening to seemingly healthy young people. We feel we have a duty of care to offer screenings and ensure young people are given expert medical help which will hopefully allow them to continue competing safely in their chosen sport.

“It is also important to remember that sudden cardiac death can affect anyone. It was with much excitement that we welcomed pop star, Pixie Lott, as our latest patron in the summer of 2010. As well as being an inspiring ambassador for teenagers and young people, Pixie also has a personal connection to the charity and the issue of young sudden cardiac death.

In 2004, Adam Donnelly (who was a friend of Pixie’s older sister, Charlie) tragically died from a previously undiagnosed condition known as Brugada syndrome. He was aged just 17.

Pixie says; "I’ve become a patron of CRY as it affects so many young people and it’s crazy that a seemingly fit young person can just drop down dead.

I feel it’s important to raise awareness and will be using my role as patron to spread the word."

Addison adds, “I set up CRY over 15 years ago and whilst our charity has grown and developed over the years, our mission has remained the same: to identify young people who are unaware that they could be at risk and to ultimately reduce the number of deaths in these sudden and tragic conditions.”

The next screening event in Warwickshire will take place on the 12th and 13th of June. To find out more, head to www.testmyheart.org.

If you, or someone you know has been affected by sudden adult death, then please do call CRY on 01737 363222 – we’re here to help you and we will be able to put you in contact with one of our trained bereavement supporters at www.c-r-y.org.uk Or, if you’re a young person who has been successfully treated for a heart condition, then why not log onto: www.myheart.org.uk to find out more about our young survivors network. n www.c-r-y.org.uk 0208 7863860

April 2012 15

Clothes from age 0-14 years

Toys

(wooden and traditional toys, Christening gifts, rag dolls, baby toys, plush toys, pocket money toys etc)

Stocking Brands: Joules O’Neill Animal Emile et Rose Darcy Brown French Connection Hatley Lilly & Sid and lots more

ZEBRA KIDS OFFICIAL CHARITY IS CARDIAC RISK IN THE YOUNG (CRY)

www.zebrakids.co.uk

BROKER’S GIN

An English Tipple from the Midlands

G

Holland in the sixteenth century.

It was called genever, the Dutch word for juniper.

However, the English quickly jumped on the bandwagon, having encountered genever while fighting with the Dutch in various European wars. Before going into battle, the troops were given a large slug of genever, hence the expression “Dutch courage”. Gin is an anglicised contraction of genever. in waS invented in

the brand proudly proclaims to be the world’s best.

The Dawson brothers have shown great foresight in creating Broker’s Gin as the twenty-first century has enjoyed a gin revival. New brands of gin are being created almost weekly. The distillers of most of these new gin brands have sought to distinguish their spirits, by using unconventional botanicals; everything from weeds to coconuts. Broker’s Gin eschewed these oddball ingredients, believing that England’s 450 years of distilling experience had already done a great job in perfecting the classic recipe.

Broker’s Gin is mainly sold in export markets.

However, this year the company has linked up with Hi-Spirits, to make a concerted push on the UK market.

Broker’s Gin is already being sold by a number of retailers in the Midlands. Broker’s Gin can be sampled in Birmingham, at The Jekyll & Hyde, Gingers and The Victoria. n www.brokersgin.com 01932 228800

When William of Orange became King of England in 1689, he encouraged the wide-scale production of gin and soon there were hundreds of gin distilleries, principally in and around London. Gin became cheaply available, leading to what was known as the Gin Craze in the eighteenth century. Eventually the government intervened because people were having too much fun and increased regulation and taxation.

At the turn of the nineteenth century, many famous gin brands appeared - Gordon’s, Beefeater, Tanqueray, Plymouth. Gin was no longer a cheap drink for the masses; it was a sophisticated tipple for the ruling classes. During this period, lavish bars known as gin palaces became popular.

In the late 1990s, Martin and Andy Dawson saw an opportunity to revive the spirit and created Broker’s Gin. Topped with a bowler hat, each bottle of Broker’s harks back to the English traditions of drinking gin.

The Dawson brothers work with the long-established Langley Distillery, just west of Birmingham.

The distillery, which has been making gin since the nineteenth century, houses several old copper pot-stills.

Broker’s Gin is five-times distilled, using a wheat spirit and ten traditional gin botanicals, starting with juniper berries.

Broker’s Gin has won many international competitions, including the Masters Award for Super-Premium Gin in 2011and

April 2012 17

www.edgemagazine.org M Spa

M SPA S Lucinda Lincoln-Lewis

et at lapStone, JuSt outside of Chipping Campden, M Spa is a luxurious and contemporary day spa that is guaranteed to help awaken your senses and destress your mind and body.

I should probably be embarrassed to admit that my visit to M Spa was the first time I have ever set foot in a spa. Sure, I have had manicures but that is more out of necessity than choice, as I have a dreadful loathing of sand and just can’t bring myself to file my own nails!

So I rocked up to M Spa, feeling a mixture of nerves and intrigue. I really don’t know what I thought they were going to do to me but I felt it was probably better not to let on that I don’t like being touched!

I arrived at Lapstone and made my way over to the Mode Salon, also owned by Martin and Ema. I was greeted by Lily, who was ready and waiting for my arrival. We crossed the complex and went upstairs to the spa, where, due to Lily’s easy manner and the tranquillity of the surroundings, I did start to feel slightly more relaxed.

I was shown into the treatment room and given a lovely white fluffy robe and some not quite so lovely paper pants. Lily ran through the treatments that I would be having, which they call the Dreaming package.

For this particular package, they use Li’Tya treatments which are all organic and inspired by ancient indigenous Australian healing modalities, to bring a truly holistic approach to caring for your physical and mental well being. We started off the Miji Jina foot treatment, by placing my feet in a bowl of warm water with some aboriginal herbs. Known as a Jiga Jina foot soak, the water softened my feet up as I chose which desert salts, scented mud and oils I was drawn to for my treatments; the combination of which, would exfoliate, cleanse and purify the skin, whilst helping to relieve tension and restore clarity and balance.

EDITORIAL

After the foot treatment, it was on to the Mala Mayi body wrap. I’ve always been thoroughly intrigued as to what on earth one of these was and had always imagined being made into a human fajita; I wasn’t far wrong as it turned out but it was much more relaxing than I anticipated. Who would have thought being covered in salt and mud and then wrapped up like a mummy would be pleasant? I have been missing out!

After I was unwrapped, I was left to scrub off the mud and salt in the shower. Then I was back on the bed, this time for an all over Kodo body massage, inspired again by aboriginal techniques, it relaxes and realigns energy flows and enhances mind and body wellbeing. This was the bit that I was looking forward to the least, as I

18

April 2012

have always imagined massages to be rather awkward.

I’ve always thought the strangeness of being rubbed up and down by someone I didn’t know would counteract the stress relief brought on by the massage. Well, I am pleased to say, again, I was wrong. After a few minutes I felt like I was floating away on a cloud and trying hard not to doze off. After the full body massage, Lily worked her way onto my head for the Paudi massage, which was also very soothing.

The Li’Tya Mirri facial is designed as an ideal treat for dull or lifeless skin, or to prepare for a special occasion. The facial massage is designed to stimulate

pressure points and get the blood flowing, whilst the organic products cleanse and moisturise, leaving your skin feeling like silk. My day was finished off with a Miji Polama hand treatment which felt divine at the time and left my hands feeling soft and supple.The Dreaming package lasts about 3 hours and is a one-to-one session.

Three hours may seem like quite a long time, but I can assure you, the time flies by. I felt like a different person as I floated home; I really couldn’t have felt better.

I think the real benefits became clear to me later that evening. As per Lily’s instructions, I made sure I drank plenty of water and did not have a shower or bath for a

couple of hours after, to let all of the oils really sink into my skin. When I did have a shower, my skin felt so soft.

Even after cooking dinner for the family, with two Jack Russells racing around me, I still felt more chilled out than I have done in months.

M Spa is great. Whether you’re a super busy urbanite looking for a chill out session in the Cotswolds, or you just enjoy being pampered, it is well worth the trip. I feel I should also say that if you think that spas aren’t for you, just try it! I know I will be going back for sure and I really can’t believe it took me so long to experience it. n www.mspa.so

April 2012 19

www.edgemagazine.org The Regal

THE REGAL –The Sequel Lucinda Bunn

F

ilM loverS froM eveShaM have been waiting a long time for the reopening of the Regal cinema, which closed its doors ten years ago. The Regal was first opened in 1932, but by the time the millennium set in, it was run down: peeling wallpaper, rickety seating and nicotine stained ceilings were just a few of the delights that awaited cinema-goers on a Saturday night. Three years ago, the refurbishment began and with a lot of hard work, mainly from volunteers in the community, and a handy £2 million cash injection, the Regal has been returned to its former glory.

From the doorman wearing a dicky bow, to the dimly lit table seating by the bar, the Regal is the perfect nod to the 1930s. The volunteers who helped in its renovation have paid particular attention to restoring the original features of the cinema, including the gold accented decor and the Art Deco light fixtures. The old clock that once adorned the walls was saved by locals when the Regal first closed. Donated to the restoration

team, the clock is the showpiece that brings everything together. The staircase leads to the upper circle, with sofas paired into love seats. Downstairs is a modern coffee shop, where you can grab a cappuccino and a cake and through the doors is the bar.

The volunteers have created a new cinema experience, a far cry from the ‘get them in, get them out’ mentality of the big chain cinemas. Not only can you enjoy the relaxed atmosphere with friends beforehand, you can stay after the film for another drink. The huge screen has 3D capabilities to keep up with new releases but there is also the opportunity to request films using the Regal’s Facebook page. So far, old favourites like Labyrinth and The Wizard of Oz have made the cut. The Regal also plays host to live music and lectures. And don’t forget the Chums Club, set up especially for the kids to enjoy on a Saturday morning.

The Grade II listed building has been revamped, yes, but every aspect of the cinema-goers experience has been restored with it. The cinema was built by the community, for the community. If the Regal was a film itself, it would be an independent artistic flick, a love affair from the 1930s, with a bit of culture and a lot of heart.

You must go and support this cinema. n www.theregal.ac 01386 421007

Dave Yates

20

April 2012

STAN'S CAFE C

in the calendar; May 6th has been circled for a year as the day Stan’s Cafe stage their 12 minute long opera. Stan’s Cafe is the quirkiest, most ingenious, experimental theatre company in the country. And this is your chance to see them this summer. The 12 minute opera will load the audience onto a mobile seating bank and pull and push them to and from the action-it’s an engineering headache but the music sounds fantastic-seven recorders, a double bass and a soprano. ertain dateS looM larger

Three days later, the team are at Warwick Arts Centre opening The Cardinals, a show they made for a venue in France a year ago and have not performed since. There are no words, so there’s no script as such; although the Stan’s Cafe players have been watching an old video in an attempt to remember what is supposed to happen.

Another group of artists that painted an installation in Birmingham’s Handsworth and Aston parks and Coventry Mysteries called Stan’s Cafe recently, asking for a similar thing in June. So the team will be performing in an empty shop unit, which should be fun. Meanwhile, in Stratford, we can look forward to an interesting take on human population statistics, using the tone of a grain of rice.

The excitement continues on June 16th, when the Just Price of Flowers opens in Birmingham with The REP, so for two days; Stan’s Cafe will have four shows running at once. There’s never a dull moment. n

www.edgemagazine.org Titanic

TITANIC 100 Years on Lucinda Lincoln-Lewis

A

S we approach the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic, we thought it only right to take a look back at her ill-fated journey and the local connections we have to the ‘unsinkable’ ship.

The RMS Titanic was owned and operated by the White Star Line, originally a Liverpool based shipping company, who in 1902, were absorbed into the International Mercantile Maritime Company, a large American shipping conglomerate. Despite this, Titanic and all other White Star liners were built in Belfast by Harland and Wolff. Designed by experienced engineers, using some of the most advanced technologies and carrying extensive safety features for that time, Titanic was deemed ‘unsinkable’ by the public and press. Although the Titanic only had enough lifeboats to save 1,178 of the 2,223 passengers and crew on board, this was more than regulations insisted upon and more than other ocean vessels of the era. The shock and controversy that surrounded the sinking of the Titanic on her maiden voyage led to huge changes in maritime law.

The Titanic left Southampton on April 10th 1912, heading for New York. It was four days into the voyage at 10.40pm that the ship struck an iceberg and only 3 hours later, disappeared into the ice cold water of the Atlantic Ocean. The ship did not sail head on into the iceberg, but rather received a glancing blow whilst manoeuvring to avoid it, which, contrary to popular belief, did not tear through her side like a tin opener, but pulled apart the plates where they were riveted together. Unfortunately, the avoidance tactic could have been partially to blame for the extensive damage done. Titanic was designed to withstand a head on impact that would flood the first four water tight compartments. She was also designed to withstand a collision from the side, flooding two water tight compartments. However, this long gaping hole in the hull was never foreseen and the crew and onboard engineers quickly realised that the ship was going under.

So many passengers lost their life, partially due to the lack of life rafts, but also due to the inefficiency at which they were loaded. The ship was designed so that compartments flooded evenly, which stopped the ship from listing.

Many of the passengers were reluctant to leave the comfort of their rooms, particularly for the small lifeboats and freezing conditions outside. This meant that many lifeboats left only half full. Another five hundred people could have been saved if these boats had been filled to capacity, which due to the calm seas that night would have posed no problems. The people that did make it to the lifeboats were predominantly travelling in first class and were women and children. The men were allowed on as oarsmen, meaning that a disproportionate amount of men, second and third class passengers lost their lives. The problem was also compounded by the freezing temperatures of the water and the reluctance of lifeboats to return after the ship sank, for fear of being swamped by those left in the water.

The first ship to respond to distress calls was the Carpathia, which was 58 miles away and didn’t manage to arrive until 2 hours after the ship had sunk, long after any passengers that were left in the icy water had passed away. From the bridge of the Titanic, a ship that is believed to be the SS Californian could be viewed from the port side, but they did not respond to any of the Titanic’s distress signals. It is believed that the wireless operator of SS Californian had warned the Titanic of icebergs at 10pm but had then turned off wireless communications after that point. This led to another change in maritime law, to ensure that wireless distress calls would not be missed again.

The Titanic may well have been the first ship to use the new SOS code and amazingly, the original message was picked up in Ledbury by George Leadbetter, an amateur wireless enthusiast. He ran with the message to the local police station, but unfortunately, was quickly dismissed.

The 710 passengers who did survive were taken by the Carpathia to New York, arriving on April 18th, where they were greeted by thousands of people who brought with them spare clothing and food parcels. Once the number of fatalities had become clear, the White Star Line chartered ships to retrieve the dead. Undertakers and members of the clergy, equipped with embalming fluid, recovered three hundred and thirty three bodies in total. The crew had to select who could be embalmed and taken home, as there were not enough supplies to treat all of the bodies and maritime law specifies that bodies must be embalmed before being returned to shore. It was predominantly the first class passengers who were selected to be returned by these first ships, with the crew members citing their reasons for this as the need to visually identify wealthy men to resolve any disputes over large estates. As a result, many third class passengers and crew members were buried at sea. Ships that were sent later, found fewer bodies and were able to restrict those buried at sea to bodies which were too damaged to be preserved. The people from

›

22

April 2012

April 2012 23

www.edgemagazine.org Titanic Southampton suffered the greatest loss from the sinking of the Titanic, with over one thousand families directly affected. Almost every street in the Chapel district of the town lost one resident, with over five hundred households losing a member. One of the items later recovered from the wreck, was a plate depicting a hotel in Malvern, which is now Malvern Girls College.

Those who lost their lives are remembered at memorials in Belfast, Glasgow, Liverpool and Southampton and even in Broadway, Worcestershire, where a memorial was erected to Francis David Millet. An internationally famous painter, Millet was part of a group of local artists based in the local Cotswold town. Just around the corner from the main memorial in Southampton, is the Titanic Musician’s Memorial to Wallace Hartley and the other musicians who continued to play as the ship went down. Although there is still some debate as to which songs were played specifically, many survivors reported hearing the music. One survivor from the last of the lifeboats claimed to see Hartley and his band standing just behind the first funnel, by the grand staircase. He went on to tell how three of them were washed off, while the other five clung on to the railing on top of the Grand Staircase’s deck house, to be dragged down with the bow, just before Hartley exclaimed “Gentlemen, I bid you farewell!”. A newspaper at the time reported "the part played by the orchestra on board the Titanic in her last dreadful moments will rank among the noblest in the annals of heroism at sea.”

To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Titanic tragedy this April, Paramount Pictures and Twentieth Century Fox will re-release James Cameron’s Titanic film in 3D. So contact your local cinema for details. Or if you fancy something a bit different, The Swan Theatre in Worcester will be staging a real time musical for four nights in April. For more details, head to www.worcesterlive.co.uk. And if you do go and see it, spare a thought for the lost souls, particularly those who perished due to the social inequalities of the time. n

24

April 2012

Royal Oak at Kinnersley The

Now Under New Management

- Restaurant - 3 rooms available for Bed & Breakfast

- Relaxing Bar - Traditional Pub Food served daily

The Royal Oak, Kinnersley, Severn Stoke, Worcestershire WR8 9JR t: 01905 371 482 e: janey.01@live.co.uk w: www.royaloakkinnersley.co.uk Situated just a short distance off the A38, The Royal Oak is approximately half way between Worcester and Tewkesbury and only about 3 miles from Upton-upon-severn.

www.edgemagazine.org Chokolit

CHOKOLIT With a Difference Lucinda Bunn

M

louiS Barnett. at the age of fourteen, he was already one of the youngest entrepreneurs in the world, with his famous chocolate bars hitting the shelves in Waitrose and Sainsbury’s.

A talented chocolatier, Louis is also a passionate conservationist and an ambassador for various campaigns bringing awareness to dyslexia, dyspraxia and other disabilities. Louis has won awards, given speeches and even met the Prime Minister and he’s still only twenty. eet

Tell us a bit about Chokolit. How did you get started?

Well, it all started at school, I was about 11 and I was about to take my SATS. By this point, teachers were telling me that I wasn’t academic and I couldn’t take my exams because I couldn’t write well enough. I completely left school to study at home. I just loved

animals and food and I wanted to do something related to that. I began cooking for family and friends and it was actually my auntie’s 50th birthday party that changed things. I baked a chocolate birthday cake and everybody loved it. I set up as a sole trader, making chocolate for local clients. In 2005, I went to my local Waitrose, asked for the store manager’s card and eventually spoke to the head buyer. In 2006, they ordered 165 Chokolit boxes. It’s just grown from there.

By 14, I had products in Sainsbury’s and we moved the business out of the garage to a larger space. All the media coverage started at this point too; I guess because I was so young. There was a bit of a stigma attached to my age but it just made me more determined to prove myself. I think the product stands on its own.

How did you overcome your troubles at school?

Leaving school was a necessity. I was bullied badly and it was a group decision between my family and I. Obviously, I didn’t foresee all of this happening. The business has grown organically from that point; you could say Chokolit just fell into my lap.

How has your life changed?

Well I haven’t really noticed. I’ve been doing this for 8 years now and because I am so young, it’s been a pretty large proportion of my life. I love the travelling though. Last year, I was only in the UK for about 3 months; it’s something I’ve always wanted to do.

Tell us about palm oil and why you don’t use it in any of your Chokolit products.

Well, we were the first in the UK to have the ‘no hydrogenated vegetables’ label on our products. The extraction of palm oil and other materials like it ruins about ten football pitches of rainforest every minute. The orangutans that inhabit these rainforests only have about two or three years left. It’s a scary statistic.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I’m lucky; I absolutely love what I do. My passion is making chocolate and how I can give my customers the very best products, using methods that are environmentally friendly and that do not take anything away from the true flavour and health benefits that chocolate can give. As a newly appointed ambassador for Callebaut, I also like to help

26

April 2012

educate and motivate young professionals like myself, giving guidance. What spare time I have left I like to spend with my friends and family. I also try to fit in ‘normal’ stuff like learning to drive – something that I’m still struggling to find time for!

Who taught you to cook?

It was a combined effort. I grew up in a family of good cooks; my mum and my nan. We’ve always been a ‘foodie’ family. I remember when I was little, my granddad used to come in with a pheasant and just start plucking away in the kitchen. I was very lucky because we lived in a small village in the West Midlands, surrounded by a local butcher, baker and even an organic dairy farm; I grew up with food.

What’s the strangest chocolate combination you make?

I know some pretty strange combinations. I came across a chocolatier in Belgium who made chocolate using oysters. I suppose my black pepper and honeycomb is an interesting mix. That came about purely by trial and error. It started as a mousse that I tested out. It was well received, so I made it into chocolate. I like chocolate that plays with your taste buds. It’s all about enjoyment for me.

Have you got any tips for budding chocolatiers at home?

First of all, don’t buy chocolate with vegetable oil in, it ruins the flavour and they only put it in there to cheapen the price.

Secondly, try to control the temperatures of your kitchen. In the winter, with the heating on, the kitchen just gets too hot. The optimum temperature for chocolate is somewhere between 18-20ºC.

What are your plans for the future of the business?

We are constantly in product development and working to create the very best chocolate we can. Last year, we spent a lot of time working with countries like Mexico, so we will be re-engaging with the UK market this year and that includes some very exciting plans with a well-known interior designer, who we are working with on new packaging designs. Long term, it would be great to open a retail store. I’m also working closely with Callebaut, since being awarded an ambassadorship in February, which will mean more travelling, more public speaking and working closely with other young entrepreneurs. I hope to inspire and encourage young people at college, at school and in their first professional ventures, to embrace innovation and build on their skills.

What advice would you give to kids who are diagnosed with dyslexia or dyspraxia?

The problem with learning disabilities is that the word ‘disability’ has such negative connotations; it’s a negative label. Instead, I like to think that whatever life takes away, it gives back in equal measure. I would encourage any kid to get involved in their local association. The work I do with dyslexia campaigns helps me. At the moment, we’re hoping to make it mandatory for all teachers to receive training in working with kids who have dyslexia.

What was is like meeting the David Cameron?

I was lucky enough to meet David Cameron and Gordon Brown at the same time.

We spoke for quite some time and in fact I’m still in contact with Mr Cameron.

They both really helped me to understand the value of politics in business. Since our meeting, I have become heavily involved with the UK Trade and Investment Department and the British Council.n www.chokolit.co.uk

ADVERTORIAL

Brown & Newirth London

DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER D Lucinda Bunn

iaMondS are alwayS the first choice for any guy or girl thinking of proposing to their special someone. The ancient Greeks believed that the fire of a diamond reflected the flame of everlasting love. But do diamonds really have the power to make love last a lifetime? Shirley Bassey seems to think so. Let’s see:

The history of wearing a diamond ring on the third finger of the left hand is rooted in the Egyptian belief that the ‘vein of love’ runs from the heart to the top of this finger. Although not scientifically accurate, it’s a romantic concept.

Diamonds have been worn into battle by kings for centuries; a symbol of strength and courage and they’re said to bring wealth, happiness and protection. Sounds good.

In the 16th century, uncut diamond crystals were set into ‘scribbling rings’ and the points were used by lovers to etch romantic vows into window panes. We don’t condone vandalism but the heart wants what it wants.

The name diamond is derived from the Greek word ‘adámas’ meaning invincible. Diamonds are the hardest natural mineral substance known to man; which bodes well for any tumultuous relationship.

Unfortunately, diamonds are not magical. They cannot guarantee everlasting love, nor can they realistically protect you on the battlefield. But it is our fascination with diamonds that has stood the test of time. The magic these sparklers possess is not supernatural; it’s their symbolism that lasts forever. n www.marcobicego.com www.brownandnewirth.com www.mastercutdiamond.co.uk

Marco Bicego

Mastercut Diamonds

April 2012 29

www.edgemagazine.org How to become a Money Magnet

HOW TO BECOME A MONEY MAGNET H

how you always end up with roughly the same amount of money in your bank account at the end of the month, irrespective of what you do? You get a promotion with a bigger pay packet and somehow your expenses go up too, so that you still end up with the same amount. It’s what T Harv Eker calls your ‘wealth thermostat’. Put simply, it is the level of wealth that you are comfortable with and expect for yourself. ave you ever noticed

Now you may wish to protest at this point and declare that you want much more money in your life.

The problem is that your ‘wealth thermostat’ is in your unconscious mind. For example, few lottery winners actually intend to spend all of their money as quickly as they can, but many do. It is because they are not accustomed to that much wealth. Even if they are delighted on a conscious level, on an unconscious level they don’t feel worthy or deserving of that much cash.

ADVERTORIAL

Quantum physics tells us that our reality only exists when it is observed; you are the observer of your reality.

Your perceptions and thoughts create your world. If you expect someone to be unpleasant, the odds are, they will be. If you expect to see money making opportunities everywhere you look, you will see them. The best example is being in love. The whole world appears to be full of gorgeous, loving people and everything appears wonderful, whilst you’re immersed in your romantic haze.

So if your thoughts create your reality, why don’t we just think ourselves rich? Well on some level we could try. We could use affirmations like “I am rich in every way” or “I am getting richer everyday”. The problem is that these thoughts are conscious and it is your

32

April 2012

unconscious thoughts and beliefs about money that will hold you back. You cannot plant a new seed on old ground full of weeds. You must pull out the weeds first.

If you want to have more money, you need to up the level of your ‘wealth thermostat’. You need to uncover your limiting thoughts and beliefs about money and I mean the ones that are lurking in your unconscious, the ones that you are not even aware you have!

Isabelle, a woman in her mid-fifties, attended a Money Magnet workshop with her friend. Isabelle was married and her children had recently left home.

Bored, she started a website for women just like her.

It was great fun as a hobby but in an ideal world, Isabelle would have loved to make some money. At the workshop, Isabelle remembered being six years old.

Woken in the dark of night by her parents, they piled into the car. The family left their home, never to return.

It was a six year old’s account of her father’s bankruptcy.

Years later, Isabelle’s husband faced bankruptcy too. She remembered the shame and emotional upset around that time in her life. Tapping into these memories, it became clear to Isabelle why she didn’t attract money.

Isabelle’s unconscious mind was deeply affected by the emotional upset, shame and trauma of losing money.

Isabelle was exhausted when she left that workshop.

However, within a week, without doing anything differently, Isabelle attracted a major UK advertiser, wanting to pay to promote on her website. Isabelle now runs a thriving business and her subconscious traumas are no longer affecting her success.

When you uncover what has been holding you back, you will then start to attract more money. Unlocking your limits is the key to increasing your ‘wealth thermostat’! n www.marieclairecarlyle.com/speaking-events/money-magnet-workshop 0844 8845005 mc@marieclairecarlyle.com

Taxation CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS, REGISTERED AUDITORS & BUSINESS ADVISORS

FREE COMPANY HEALTH CHECK We offer a FREE business consultation for any size business, we will discuss company structures, tax planning opportunities and general business tips.

With an expert team to call upon we believe the health check can benefit any business.

• Accounts production, VAT, Book keeping & Payroll • Audit & Assurance • Tax Planning and Compliance • Corporate Finance • Business Development • Business Recovery • IT Services • Financial Services

Contact us today on 01527 69321, Email: mail@haywardwright.co.uk or visit us on www.haywardwright.co.uk Prospect House, Church Green West, Redditch, Worcestershire B97 4BD Tel: 01527 69321 F: 01527 63700 Web: www.haywardwright.co.uk Email: mail@haywardwright.co.uk

proactive service helping your business to grow

www.edgemagazine.org The Menzies Hotel

THE MENZIES HOTEL S

championship golf course, a luxury spa, including an indoor swimming pool, external vitality pool, four thermal experience rooms and a spacious gymnasium.

Menzies also boasts eleven, newly refurbished private function suites; the ideal venue for weddings, residential meetings, training courses and events.

Last month, the hotel hosted a wedding fayre, bringing together some fantastic ideas and services, with the best photographers, bridal boutiques, hair stylists and florists in the area. n www.welcombehotelstratford.co.uk 01789 295252

et in the heart of Warwickshire, The Menzies hotel provides a luxurious experience for the visitors of Stratford. With 157 acres of surrounding parkland, Menzies combines the traditional with the contemporary. Built in 1866, this Jacobean style country house hotel retains its historical features, with an impressive injection of modern facilities. Guests can expect magnificent oak panels, four poster suites, a luxury spa and an award winning restaurant; the views over the stunning Italian gardens and water features, burst onto the Warwickshire countryside. The four star hotel offers 78 luxurious bedrooms, including the new garden rooms, equipped with iMacs, air conditioning and fresh, innovative furnishings.

ADVERTORIAL

Complementing the hotel, are the superb leisure facilities. The Menzies Hotel has an 18-hole

MENZIES WELCOMBE WEDDING FAYRE

The contacts you need to plan your special day.

34

April 2012

PHOTOGRAPHERS AND VIDEOGRAPHERS Auracreative Photography At Auracreative photography we specialise in quality products with excellent personal service and most of all, quality images that capture the moment of our clients’ special day, which last forever.

Lance Swatland Tel: 02476 329754 Mob: 07968 581071 www.auracreative.co.uk

David Woodings David is an award winning, fully qualified member of the British Institute of Professional Photographers.

Tel: 01789 296790 www.davidwoodings.co.uk

Philip Gowdy Philip has been photographing weddings for the past 15 years. He produces award winning images in contemporary and traditional styles.

01386 832506 www.philipgowdyphotography.co.uk

Moving Picture Box A Moving Picture Box wedding video production is a memory for a lifetime of your wedding day, for you, your family and future generations to re-live.

01527 878490 www.movingpicturebox.org.uk

Martin Salt of Crafton Art Studios I have photographed weddings at most of the popular venues in and around Warwickshire.

01789 297141 www.martinsalt.co.uk

CAKES & SWEETS Truly Scrumptious Cake Truly Scrumptious specialise in creating beautiful bespoke wedding cakes, cupcakes and favours. Not only do our cakes look incredible, they taste delicious too, as we use only the finest ingredients, which are locally sourced where possible.

07512 321 681 www.trulyscrumptious-cake.co.uk

Creative Cakes & Inspired Icing With over 40 years of experience, we offer a wide range of styles in both traditional and contemporary cake designs for all occasions.

01386 860794 www.incredibleandedible.co.uk

Sweetie Monster Sweetie Monster is a supplier of all of your favourite, retro sweets and can design bespoke Candy Buffets and Wedding Favours.

07989 581221 www.sweetiemonster.com

Fruity Bouquet Fresh, edible fruit bouquets, made to order.

07795 831499 www.fruitybouquet.com

BRIDALWEAR AND MENSWEAR Daisy B. Nell Bridal Daisy B. Nell have a large selection of designer gowns to suit all shapes, ages and tastes; from Eternity Bride and Art Couture, to Amanda Wyatt and Hillary Morgan.

01386 446468 www.daisybnell.co.uk

Karen Verena Karen Verena offer a fabulous wide range of wedding gowns, Bridesmaids dresses, veils and beautiful accessories. Stand out from the crowd with a WOW dress from Karen Verena.

01789 400884 www.karenverena.co.uk

Richard Paul Menswear We offer knowledgeable and experienced personal service and combine classic style with modern detail to reflect the latest trends in men’s wedding suit fashion.

01789 296018 www.richardpaulhire.co.uk

White Rose Bridal Boutique White Rose Bridal is a luxury new bridal boutique, offering the latest collections by top

British designers.

01386 848802 www.thewhiterosebridal.co.uk

FLORISTS AND FAVOURS

Rose Hamson Flowers Rose Hamson is a leading contemporary florist, who has developed a range of top quality flowers and plants for independently-owned stores in South Warwickshire and the Cotswolds.

01789 490280 www.rosehamsonflowers.co.uk

Stems and Sashes From romantic to contemporary, traditional to extravagant…Stems and Sashes will provide you with amazing creativity as well as ensuring the end product suits your budget.

01527 850 485 www.stemsandsashes.com

Time for Design Bespoke handmade stationery, tailored to your individual requirements, created with care and attention to detail.

01386 852223 www.time-for-design.co.uk

TRANSPORT Driven in Style Driven in Style offer their services for your wedding day, corporate hire or executive transportation for today's discerning business person.

0121 705 2747 www.driveninstyle4u.co.uk

Heli Air Established in 1985, Heli Air is one of the most experienced helicopter operating companies in the UK. 01789 470476 www.heliair.com

HAIR SALONS Beautiful Wedding hair Creative, beautiful wedding hair will make your special day unforgettable.

Shen Hassan 07711 944162 www.beautifulweddinghair.co.uk

Matthew Curtis Hair Design UK leading stylist for TRESemme, Matthew works globally on shows and shoots with clients and also represents the TRESemme brand across the UK, Europe and a few Seasons at New York Fashion week.

01789 266 551 www.matthewcurtis.biz

ENTERTAINMENT Central England Music Agency The Central England Music Agency has been supplying the very best musicians to the very best venues for over 20 years.

0121 350 5924 www.musicofnote.co.uk

Hannah Rhodes Hannah Rhodes is a talented singer and pianist, offering a wide repertoire including classical, jazz, popular, soul, show tunes and Latin music.

07941 931753 www.hannahrhodes.co.uk

Integrity Wedding Entertainment At Integrity, we promise that you get the very best available rate for any type of entertainment that you decide to have play or perform at your event.

0845 257 2417 www.integrity-weddings.com

Jonathan’s Fireworks We guarantee to give you a memorable firework display, to give your celebration the ultimate WOW factor.

024 7635 3111 www.jonathansfireworks.co.uk

Lucky 17 Fun Casinos Unique entertainment for you and your wedding guests. Let us deal with the introductions, leaving you to relax and enjoy your special day.

01530 611017 www.Lucky17.co.uk

R G L Disco Services Photos, videos and special offers. Mobile discos and DJ hire, based in Coventry.

07989 597014

www.edgemagazine.org The Menzies Hotel

M

all of its franchised dealers are to become fully functioning Mitsubishi Electric Vehicle Centres.

itSuBiShi haS announced that

By the end of March 2012, the approved dealerships will have two fully trained EV sales personnel as well as after-sales technicians. The move is particularly exciting as Mitsubishi Motors looks forward to the arrival of its first plug-in hybrid technologies that are due to arrive in the UK within the next 18 months.

Lance Bradley, Mitsubishi UK’s managing director, has reiterated Mitsubishi’s intentions to continue to promote and establish the EV and plug-in hybrid technology in the UK market.

He told us: “The Pure EV i-MiEV has now been a reality for the last year with new plug-in hybrid technology and vehicles to come to the UK soon.”

"Our dealer network will provide excellent service and offer the best advice to our retail and fleet customers.”

"Staff will undertake an extensive training programme so that there is a very clear understanding of the demands and requirements of electric vehicles for consumers, as well as an awareness of the wider industry issues relating to the EV marketplace.”

"Their after-sales departments will also comply with compulsory manufacturer training and require specialist tools to enable the service and maintenance of electric vehicles.”

All Mitsubishi EV Centres will have Mitsubishi i-MiEV demonstrator vehicles that will be available for customers to properly test and experience over a prolonged period, so they can discover for themselves what it is like to drive and own an electric vehicle in real-life conditions.

Motorists purchasing a qualifying ultra-low emission car can receive a grant of 25% towards the cost of the vehicle, up to a maximum of £5,000. The 2010 Spending Review confirmed that the Government has made provisions to support the Plug-in Car Grant for the duration of their time in the House of Commons. n

36

April 2012

MITSUBISHI TO LAUNCH ELECTRIC VEHICLE CENTRES in all UK dealerships in 2012

April 2012 37

www.edgemagazine.org Helix

HELIX

by Ed Borastero Worcestershire born furniture designer and maker, Ed Borastero, gives us an insight into his craft.

Do you think growing up here had an influence on your life choices?

I went to a small village school in Tardebigge up until the age of 9 and then onto King's School, Worcester.

This gave me an early insight into the importance of community, both big and small, and the importance of finding your own place within that community. I’ve spent quite a large part of my adult life moving from place to place (Shropshire, Bristol, Cornwall, France, London) and have found that the ability to integrate into a community is incredibly important. Growing up in a rural area and going to school in a small city enabled me to enjoy a healthy balance of the things Worcestershire has to offer, from safely riding my bike and playing with friends in the fields and lanes around my house, to learning about all the excitement the towns around have to offer. Growing up in our county has given me a great deal of useful tools and skills to use in my career.

How did you get started in London?

I moved to London to take on a two year Fine Woodwork Diploma; a dormant passion from childhood, when some local craftsmen fitted a beautiful pine kitchen in our house. I found that I had a talent for my craft and an enthusiasm that I never found for academia. I worked incredibly hard, whilst supporting myself in this expensive city. So much so, that the Building Crafts College gave me the position of Maker in Residence. From this, I started my business, Borastero Furniture, without the worry of huge overheads and a lot of financial investment. It has also given me the opportunity to mentor and teach students on the course, something that I enjoy immensely.

What is your favourite piece of work?

During my time as a student I was given a brief to design and make a bedside table. The conventional way of doing this, with a drawer and possibly a cupboard underneath, wasn't really going to satisfy my need to push myself as a designer and my technical abilities as a maker. In a moment of inspiration, an idea came to me, which gave birth to the Helix Table. It has created a fair bit of interest. I won the Alan Peters Award for Excellence, a merit entry in to the Society of Designer Craftsmen, and an appearance in Good Woodworking Magazine. It is a piece that I now make to order in a variety of timber. It has an elegance and lightness of

38

April 2012

form that I find very satisfying.

You've had a lot of success in the past 12 months, how did you achieve it?

The most important thing is that you must have a true passion for what you do. I know this isn't the easiest thing to find, it took me 25 years. But once you find it, putting everything you have into your work doesn't feel like a job. Although, most of the time, sanding is always going to be a chore. The other thing I try to do is seek out and take on as many opportunities as you can. This attitude has helped me to do things that I would never have thought were possible.

For example, I met the Duchess of Cornwall at a luncheon provided by the Worshipful Company of Joiners and Ceilers, off the back of winning their 2011 Craft Competition. She’s a lovely lady and it was a great honour.

What have you got planned for the future?

I’m currently working on a project with the Olympic Park Legacy Company, which is a very exciting prospect but one I can't give any details on I'm afraid. I have also just finished filming a set of ‘How To’ videos with Videojug. com, a website dedicated to producing professional advice videos over a range of topic. I’m hoping to work with them again in the future. I'm still waiting to hear back from Camilla, but fingers crossed I’ll be receiving a ‘Royal Appointment’ at some point in the near future. n www.borasterofurniture.com

April 2012 39

www.edgemagazine.org Hair today, gone tomorrow

HAIR TODAY, GONE TOMORROW But Back Next Week

M

a sensitive subject. It’s something that affects most men at some point. It’s all very well mocking the toupée and jeering at the comb over, but the psychological effects of hair loss can be extremely damaging. Confidence is a tricky thing to maintain at any rate but when your physical flaws are so visible, it becomes difficult to show pride in your appearance. After a hair transplant last year, Wayne Rooney has said that his game improved from the confidence he’s got back. More and more men are looking for answers to their hair loss dilemmas and if Rooney’s testimony is anything to go by, we can see why. ale pattern BaldneSS iS

ADVERTORIAL

HIS is a solution you may not have heard of. The HIS hair clinics provide cosmetic scalp pigmentation to give the look of a shaved head. The micro hair technique was developed by Ian Watson and his sister-in-law, Ranbir Rai-Watson. The technique is a non-surgical, practical and permanent alternative to the hugely invasive and expensive hair transplant treatment offered by many cosmetic surgeons. And here’s how it works: often

40

April 2012

compared to tattooing, the micro hair technique uses a fine needle to create shading on the scalp. This provides optimum coverage and follows the original shape of the hairline. Using natural inks, Ian and Ranbir have designed colours to match your hair colour and skin tone, subtly enhancing what you have already. A free consultation is set up to discuss the size of your head and the coverage needed. If you want to go ahead, depending on these factors, the treatment can take up to 2/3 hours. ‘The inks that we use are light and we also don’t go as deep as a tattoo, which allows us to go over the same area. By starting with a light colour, we can build up from there’; ‘it has to be spot on’, explains Ian. The results are remarkable; nobody could tell. There are a lot of products out there but few actually work.

‘When my brother was dying ten years ago, I started losing my hair from the stress’ says Ian, ‘I was desperate.

The tattoo artists in the UK weren’t interested, so we went out to Australia to learn how to do cosmetic eyebrow tattooing. That’s how it all started really’. It’s taken ten years of perfecting the technique, breaking into the competitive market and giving up their day jobs, but now, Ian and Ranbir have HIS clinics in London, Los Angeles, New York and Paris.

With all the wigs, sorry, ‘hair systems’, lotions and supplements there are available today, balding men are spending incredible amounts of money on impractical and ineffective treatments. The micro hair technique is a happy medium for a permanent result, without the trials and tribulations of a surgical procedure. HIS allows you to take control of your hair loss. The result is a modern, shaved and stylish look. It’s not specifically the hair that balding men miss; it’s the confidence that comes with it. HIS will give you that confidence back, one compliment at a time. n www.hishairclinic.com 0845 6046418

ets Carpom fr

9 £3.9 tre sQ me

“Outfits For This Seasons Occasions”

Craycombe Carpets ... rugs & vinyls We are a carpet warehouse not a high street store, this means massive savings to you... and thats not all ... we also give you free underlay, grippers and door bars on selected items.

Why not give us a call today for a fast, reliable and efficient service.

Gold by Michael H Libra Bianca Oui Steilmann Emreco NYDJ Jeans Mac Jeans Kapalua

free quotation, free measurements. fitting service available within 48 hours. fully insured and highly recommended.

We will beat any quote.

Can’t come to us?

We’ll come to you!

CraYComBe Carpets

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Unit 22, Craycombe Farm, Evesham Road, Fladbury, Pershore WR10 2QS

tel: tel: 01386 861444 email. email. sales@craycombecarpets.co.uk sales@craycombecarpets.co.uk

Bridge Street Wellesbourne CV35 9QP

WE ARE A 5 STAR GOOD SALON GUIDE SALON NOW AND PROUD TO BE THE ONLY STOCKISTS IN BIRMINGHAM WHO ARE A KEVIN MURPHY SESSION SALON. WE CREATE THE LATEST CATWALK TRENDS WHILST KEEPING OUR CLIENTS HAIR, WELL BEING AND THE ENVIRONMENT BEAUTIFUL.

INNOVATIVE

HAIRDRESSING

WE HAVE A VEGAN COLOUR KEEPING Y OUR HAIR, W ELL-BEING RANGE AND NON OF OUR AND THE ENVIRONMENT BEAUTIFUL PRODUCTS ARE TESTED O ANIMALS. WE RECYCLE AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE AND USE RECYCLED WWW.PUROHAIR.CO.UK BIO DEGRADABLE TOWELS. OUR 0121 616 1168 COLOURS AND PRODUCTS PROVIDE SAFER AND HEALTHIER HAIR RESULTS DUE TO BEING MORE NATURAL AND AMMONIA AND PARABEN FREE. OUR SALON IS RELAXING AND PERSONAL. WE ARE THE ONLY ORGANIC SALON IN BIRMINGHAM. WE HAVE ALSO INTRODUCED NEW BEAUTY TREATMENTS TO OUR MENU WHICH INCLUDE: • FACIALS • MASSAGE • SPRAY TAN • VEGAN MANI AND PEDI • EYELASH EXTENSIONS • WAXING

www.edgemagazine.org Volkswagen

VOLKSWAGEN Generation Golf Lucinda Lincoln-Lewis

T

he volkSwagen golf firSt arrived on our shores back in 1974. Since then, it has been pretty hard to miss what has become one of the world’s favourite hatchbacks. The Golf was the first successful replacement for the iconic VW Beetle and has now spanned six generations and sold over 1,500,000 vehicles in the UK alone. This makes it the eighth most popular car ever sold here in the UK.

The Mark 1 Golf was a small car, even by European standards, measuring just 146 inches long but with a relatively long wheelbase of 94.2 inches; it effectively put the wheels right at the corners of the car, leading to cracking stability and a spacious interior that felt considerably larger than some of its much bigger contemporaries. In 1979, the original Golf GTI came out and with its fuel injected, four cylinder 1598cc engine and a 0-60 speed in under ten seconds, it was deemed the first ‘hot-hatch’ and revolutionised the way that hatchbacks were seen.

The second and third generation Golfs were launched into the markets in 1983 and 1991, respectively. The Mark 2 had a longer wheel base and was slightly larger than its predecessor, but generally retained its angular looks. For the Mark 3, they went for a more rounded and again with a slightly larger look. With the first turbo charged direct injection diesel engine, along with beefing up the Mk 3 GTI and fitting the 2.8 litre VR6 engine that produced 172bhp. The engine was a brute and only helped expand the GTI legend.

The Mark 4 came to us in 1997 and was described as ‘smooth and stylish’. It was longer again, allowing for slightly more leg and head room and a larger boot.

It was also the year that VW added their first dieselengined GTI to their line up, alongside the two petrol

VW Direct are independent specialists dealing in new and used VW, Audi, Skoda and Seat cars.

offerings. The Mark 4, although comfortable and very popular, fell short when it came to power output.

They rectified this with the R32 and VR6 models, but it was generally noted by petrol heads that VW, whilst continuing to make practical, hardworking cars, were losing the fun feel that they had created with the original Golf and Golf GTI. Out of the flames, rose the phoenix. After the lack lustre performance of the standard Mark 4 engines, VW went back to the drawing board for the Mark 5 and in 2003, we were presented with a Golf that once again had a good dollop of fun, along with the practicality, smoothness and reliability we associate with driving a Golf. The Mark 5 GTI was heralded as being a modern Mark 1 and put VW back into the top three of the hothatches. The GT TDI, their second foray into a diesel GTI, ensured that VW produced a Golf for everyone. The top of the range 170bhp diesel, although not as quick as the petrol GTI, offers an exciting drive, well coupled with a very healthy mpg.

The VW Mark 6 was debuted at the Paris Motor Show in 2008 and was designed by VW’s chief designer Walter de’Silva. It has bags of style and showed the world that the Golf model is here to stay. The car also features an optional 6 speed gear box, which has proved very popular with motor enthusiasts.

Over the past two years, VW have really stepped up their game; not only in the aesthetics but under the bonnet too. They have recently given their older models a revamp by replacing their engines with new technology, lowering fuel emissions. The new Blue Motion also boasts more mpg and as well as being fun, this motor will help you do your bit for the environment. n

ARRANGE A VIEWING 01905 380 196 VW Direct The Golf Shop Alcester Road Flyford Flavell Worcester WR7 4DB

www.vwaudidirect.co.uk 42

April 2012

April 2012 43

JOIN OUR TEAM

Let us know what you think about our new and exciting window on the world and how best we can serve you in future editions.

WRITERS, BLOGGERS AND REPORTERS UNITE If you feel that you can provide feedback, stories, real time comments and opinions on the magazine or our community in Warwickshire, Worcestershire and the West Midlands then we would like to hear from you.

Edge Magazine are looking for talented contributors.

From book reviewers to foodies, shoppers to business owners. No story is ever ruled out. We have editors to help out, who can really bring your written material into its own and get you published.

WE REALLY ENJOY DIVERSITY Warwickshire, Worcestershire and the West Midlands are the areas we cover, so if you have a story, lead or idea within this remit, then please get in touch below.

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

CURRENTLY AVAILABLE ROLES Job Role: Telesales Executive Reference: EDG1 Required for immediate start – Experienced telesales executives working from home to book appointments and sell advertising space for regional magazine.

If you are interested in applying for this position please send your CV to: candidates@edgemagazine.org

ADVERTISE WITH US If you like what you see and would like to promote your business in our magazine then please get in touch. advertise@edgemagazine.org Alternatively please visit our website for further details. www.edgemagazine.org/advertise-with-us

MAKE SURE YOU CHECK OUT THE EDGE MAGAZINE WEBSITE Honouring our promise to keep you updated on all things new from Edge Magazine, have a look at our website. Here are just a few of our favourite features:

•

We've developed a growing list of unique, local and up to date businesses which hopefully you will find as useful as we do.

•

Our Twitter feed will get you the inside track as to what's trending in the Midlands, before many others do.

•

With our Facebook page we try and promote conversation and just sometimes, a prize or two.

•

Finally, our ‘What’s on’ section is our essential guide to entertainment and things to do in Warwickshire, Worcestershire and the West Midlands.

So what’s stopping you? Get involved and help us to help you raise awareness today! Check us out & let us know what you think by whatever media you prefer.

WWW.EDGEMAGAZINE.ORG @WeAreEdge FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK

facebook.com/ WeAreEdgeMagazine

www.edgemagazine.org Friendship care and housing

FRIENDSHIP CARE AND HOUSING F Michael Abu-Zalaf

care and houSing have not lost sight of their aims in their 55 years of providing social housing to those in need. Managing Director Jonathan Driffill highlights ‘we want to help the community’. The organisation has come a long way since the 50s, when they gave support to those coming to the UK for work.

What started as a charity now stands as a self-sufficient organisation, helping to support vulnerable members of the community, improve standards of living and invest in run-down areas. riendShip

After teaming up with Longhurst Group, in 2006, Friendship are redeveloping large residences that were originally converted into flats in the 70s, into family friendly homes to cater for the increase in demand across Birmingham and the surrounding regions. But the heart of Friendship Care and Housing is not in property development; the objectives go deeper than that. Jonathan reiterates ‘we think providing a good home encourages residents to seek work and register for training programmes’. Jonathan and his team work to improve all aspects of community life, targeting neglected neighbourhoods and improving the facilities and opportunities for all.

Jonathan describes an estate in Derby, built in the 70s. Friendship galvanised a three year initiative to improve the area. ‘There were 250 social houses, with many of them void and empty; it was a hotspot for drugs and prostitution. We created private gardens, improved the properties and it didn’t take long to fill the empty flats after that; people were asking to move there.’ But Jonathan understands that the problems can arise again, which is why Friendship work with the local authorities health authorities and community safety partnerships, to encourage shared interaction and teamwork. Plans are already underway to regenerate parts of Walsall too.

The care and support branch of Friendship Care and Housing provides for people with learning difficulties, those struggling with mental ill health and the elderly.

The work they do makes a huge difference to these vulnerable groups and unlike many profit driven organisations, the money Friendship make, they use to maintain the communities they have built.

46

April 2012

Unfortunately, due to the economic downturn, there have been some changes. The proposals on housing benefit reform could ensure that benefit rent payments no longer go directly to the housing associations.

This means that social housing organisations, such as Friendship, won’t have the secure income stream which keeps their lending rates so low. Therefore, equity mortgage lenders will have to charge more to borrow from them. All in all, it leaves Friendship, and organisations like it, with less funding to help those who need it. But Jonathan is preparing for such eventualities.

Friendship have joined forces with the Central Housing Investment Consortium, a group of eight housing associations, coming together to procure building materials in bulk at a lower cost.

The work that Friendship Care and Housing do is vital for those who cannot support themselves; to drive quality up and cost down. The shared belief on the Friendship team centres on an individual responsibility to understand the vulnerability problems in Britain. By working together to improve the standard of living for certain groups, regenerate derelict buildings and inspire a sense of community in the most down-trodden areas, Friendship are investing in Britain. When everyone else is cutting back, Friendship is determined to invest money in those who have nothing. It’s not a hand-out, it’s about unifying our society, to work together, to improve people’s lives and give opportunities to those who have so few. n www.fch.org.uk 0300 1231745

Long gone are the days when the kitchen was just a place to cook and prepare food - today it is the focus of the home.

It has become a meeting and social area, not just for the immediate family, but extended family and friends and in many cases now also encompasses the formal dining area, or at the very least casual eating.

Visit our large showroom where you can view six fully equipped kitchens from our range. We also have a selection of worktop materials for you to choose from.

“We design, build and install handmade bespoke kitchens from both solid natural wood and painted wood, to fit the customers individual budgets.”

SHOWROOM OPEN: Tuesday to Friday 9am - 5pm & Saturday 9am - 3pm Blackminster Business Park, Blackminster, Evesham, Worcs. WR11 7RE tel: 01386 830006 www.thepaintedkitchencompany.com

To book 01789 298 682 The Waterside Brasserie’s eclectic décor and relaxed ambience combine to create an exceptional dining experience…

A la carte menu Pre and post theatre dinner Sunday brunch Champagne Bar Afternoon tea Social season events Jazz events All weather terraces

Waterside, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire CV37 6BA enquiries@theardenhotelstratford.com www.theardenhotelstratford.com

For the very best outdoor furniture...

Lapstone, Westington Hill, Chipping Campden www.lapstone.net 01386 841611

www.kawinteriordesign.co.uk

K.A.W

SHOWROOM OPEN Tu es-Sat 10.00am to 4pm Su n -Mon C losed

Tel: 01562 66882

interiordesign

Unit 3, 19 Lisle Avenue, Kidderminster DY11 7DF

individually designed luxury kitchens

The K.A.W. Experience Having your kitchen designed and installed

by K.A.W has so many benefits you’ll wonder why anyone would go anywhere else! > Free advice > Free survey and planning service > K.A.W. installation service covers all aspects including electrics, plumbing, building work, tiling, and decorating > Fully project managed > 10 year guarantee

K.A.W interiord

esign

If you want a personal service that makes the process of choosing, designing, and installing your dream kitchen a breeze, K.A.W is the place for you.

Visit us or call on 01562 66882 T H E

K I T C H E N

I N S T A L L A T I O N

&

C O N S T R U C T I O N

E X P E R T S

J

onathan driffill recently teaMed up with project manager George Clarke, from Channel 4’s Restoration Man, The Empty Homes Show and The Great British Property Scandal, for a special project to refurbish a neglected building into a family home.

The empty homes problem in Britain must be solved. With 350,000 long-term empty properties and 2 million families desperately needing a home, the maths does not add up.

George Clarke has found streets of houses caught up in red tape in areas where thousands of people are on housing waiting lists. At the sharp end of the housing crisis are ex-soldiers sleeping on sofas, single mothers in overcrowded conditions and families from professional backgrounds forced to give up on the dream of ever owning a home. The government are currently building 100,000 fewer new houses than we need, every year and even the £100 million fund available to refurbish empty homes will only bring 3,000 empty homes back into use over a three year period. The unambitious target will only contribute to a waste of the assets available to us.

George Clarke, along with Jonathan at Friendship Care and Housing and Ark Housing Consultancy, turned a derelict property divided into flats and bedsits, into a beautiful and modern family home in Birmingham.

The speedy renovation took only a few weeks and cost a fraction of the estimated budget the Government have put forward. George has also set up an Empty Homes Spotter iPhone app, for users to flag up the location of empty properties in their area. Local councils are not always aware of where empty properties are, so you can help by taking a photo and uploading it. Just search your Apple App Store for ‘empty homes’, and get reporting!

If you would like to know more about George’s campaign to get empty houses back into action, head to his website. n www.georgeclarke.com

April 2012 49

www.edgemagazine.org Caribbean cuisine

CARIBBEAN CUISINE Lucie Lincoln-Lewis

Located in Wildmoor, near Bromsgrove, The Wildmoor Oak pub and restaurant is a country pub with a twist. And if you fancy a little change from the norm, we urge you to check it out.

Crossing a bridge from the car park to the pub over a small stream, I was intrigued to see how the international cuisine would fit with the quaint British setting. The head chef and patron Lorenzo is of Jamaican origin and made the move from Birmingham into the sticks a few years ago. He has been awarded a variety of accolades throughout his career; from Jerk Cookout King Chef of the Midlands to the ‘Best Of’ most loved English restaurant in the UK. We went to try out the Caribbean menu choices on offer and we started with the Caribbean Combo, which although is suitable for two, could easily stretch to more! A great choice to get you in the mood, with tasty chicken wings doused in Lorenzo’s homemade Jerk BBQ sauce, Callalloo fritters, mutton patties and festival dumplings, all served with a variety of dips, including a hot but tasty West Indian pepper sauce.

Onto the mains. We really couldn’t decide what to go for, but settled on jerk chicken and West Indian chicken, both served with rice and peas. The dishes were absolutely delicious and each can be ‘hotted up’ to your liking. We also had a cheeky taste of the goat curry, which was

50

April 2012

very tasty and incredibly tender. It’s easy to see (and taste) the time and effort that goes into preparing the food at The Wildmoor, with many dishes being marinated for as long as possible to ensure that the depth of flavour really tantalises your taste buds . We chose a sticky toffee pudding to share for dessert, which although not a traditional Caribbean pudding, finished off the meal perfectly.

There is also a comprehensive English menu, to make sure that all tastes are catered for. The specials board features dishes from all around the world, with flags denoting the country of origin.

The staff at the Wildmoor are friendly and welcoming, with a great knowledge of the menu and the selection of award-winning cask ales behind the bar. There is a vibrant atmosphere, making you feel at ease and relaxed as soon as you walk in and it is so nice to see young staff members who obviously really enjoy working there.

Lorenzo also hosts a monthly Caribbean evening on the last Thursday of every month, with themed entertainment, great food and a lot of soul. We haven’t been yet, but it sounds like so much fun. All in all, The Wildmoor Oak is a fantastic choice for an evening out; a great tribute to Caribbean traditions and a tasty alternative to a Chinese or Indian feast. n www.wildmooroak.com 0121 4532696

April 2012 51

www.edgemagazine.org The non-surgical facelift

THE NON-SURGICAL FACELIFT A Patient’s Journey

I

have Been a patient of Dr Claire Oliver for almost eight months now and I would like to share my cosmetic experience with you.

It started in June last year, when I was feeling particularly miserable about my mirror image. I was fast approaching my 45th birthday and my frown and nose to mouth lines were worsening. In addition, my face looked ‘drawn’ and the quality of my skin seemed poor – grey and dull looking.

I had researched a number of local aesthetic practitioners but decided to visit Dr Claire Oliver, as I had been admiring some facial rejuvenation work she did for one of my friends.

Back then, my nose to mouth lines were upsetting me considerably and I decided that this was the first problem area I wanted to correct. I must admit, I was a little anxious at first but Dr Oliver eased my concerns with her professional and reassuring approach.

ADVERTORIAL

Claire recommended a dermal filler called Juvederm, to soften the deep folds in my skin. I found the procedure relatively quick and painless; the excitement of how my appearance would improve was at the forefront of my mind! And I was not disappointed – in fact, I was totally amazed at the change! The lines had faded almost completely. This made an instant difference to the way I looked. The after effects of Juvederm were minimal; some slight swelling, that was to be expected, but it went away within a few days. Dr

52

April 2012

Claire informed me that the filler would last at least a year, possibly longer.

A few months later, I finally decided to take the plunge and have Botox to soften my frown lines. I was anxious again. Is it dangerous? Can it travel away from the muscle and harm me? How much is injected?

What I learnt was very reassuring. The knowledge that the amount injected is so tiny – compared to say, the amount used to treat a child with cerebral palsy – put it all in perspective. Like me, many people are worried about how they may feel after Botox. But it didn’t feel odd at all. The only difference is your appearance.

It was so exciting to wake up every day and notice a smoother complexion; my lines softening and eventually disappearing. The Botox lasted around three to four months and I have since repeated it twice, the result improving and lasting even longer with each treatment.

I then decided to address the problem of my sunken cheeks. I had lost a lot of weight in my face and I looked constantly tired and drawn. Claire recommended a product called Juvederm Voluma. This had been part of the initial treatment plan we had discussed during my first consultation. I really could not believe the difference! The result is similar to a facelift, but nothing artificial – just tighter, firmer skin. I really do look more radiant and youthful! I highly recommend the nonsurgical facelift. n www.airaesthetics.co.uk 0845 5195377

Wedding Gowns, Ball Gowns, Prom and Special Occasion Dresses.

Exclusively Designed. A Bespoke Service. Unique, Inspirational and Beautiful Garments Created from Silk, Satin and Lace.

The summation of parts works in such a way that nothing needs to be replaced, taken away, or altered.

You are beautiful!

50 LondonRoad, Worcester, WR5 2DL 01905 359 157 - enquiries@maggieelizabethcouture.co.uk - www.maggieelizabethcouture.co.uk

April 2012 55 mothercare.com/babyk

www.edgemagazine.org Exercise advice for busy people

EXERCISE ADVICE FOR BUSY PEOPLE W

of excuses as to why we cannot fit regular exercise into our routine. From working long hours, to running the kids to various activities and everything in between, the list seems endless. While many people may have difficulty finding enough time to get to the gym and work out, there are plenty of other ways you can get more exercise at home or at work. Whether you are looking to build a bit of muscle, or lose some body fat, there are numerous workouts that only take thirty minutes or less. Here are a few tips to help you on your way. e all have tonS

Stretching, especially with resistance bands, is one of the best forms of exercise you can do and this activity can be done in a short period of time – on your lunch hour or while dinner is in the oven. Resistance bands provide similar results and work your muscles just as hard as lifting light weights; however, they are a bit safer.

One simple exercise that works various muscles in your legs, as well as your lower back, can be done in your living room. Lie flat on the floor, raise one leg straight into the air, loop one end of the resistance band under one foot, and hold the other end against your chest. Lower your leg to the floor. Repeat several reps and alternate legs.

Other resistance band exercises can easily be done at your desk. Bicep curls, leg curls and leg extensions are simple and beneficial. Start by holding each end of the band in each hand and keep your arms in front of you. Turn your trunk to the right and then the left. Repeat several reps. Keeping your hands on your hips and the band firmly anchored under one foot and in one hand, bend your body to the left, then to the right. Repeat several reps.

Recent studies have shown that performing stretches or simple exercises with the addition of resistance bands can be extremely beneficial when performed regularly and correctly. These studies found that typical activities conducted throughout a normal day (such as sitting and walking) only burn a very small amount of calories. Adding any extra physical activity to your normal routine will burn additional calories and adding a bit of resistance, will burn significantly more.

In addition to the above-mentioned exercises, try walking or cycling to work or take regular evening jogs. Consider inviting a co-worker to take a short walk during your lunch break. Any type of extra activity you get can really add up and in a short period of time you will begin to notice the results. n

56

April 2012

www.edgemagazine.org Paxton and Whitfield

PAXTON AND WHITFIELD Spring has sprung and it's time to invigorate our palates with some fresh, vibrant and exciting wines.

Wine

Cheese to match

Verdeca is probably a grape variety you haven’t heard of.

It is a native Italian variety that can produce wine of a very high acidity. The Verdeca grape, from sunny Puglia, ripens beautifully, with a wonderful perfume of fresh flowers and green apples. Expect hints of honey and a truly delicious flavour.

Masseria Pietrosa Verdeca 2010 £10.99

Bruwer Raats produces some of the finest wine in South Africa. His original Chenin Blanc has an elegant, almost feminine charm. This one is un-oaked, allowing the quality of the excellent Stellenbosch fruit to shine through. Although technically a dry white, there is a fine sweetness; very refreshing, with flavours of tropical fruits that burst on the tongue.

Raats Original Chenin Blanc 2010 £9.49

South Australia’s Maclaren Vale produces some of the finest wines the country has to offer. The vineyards are blessed with the perfect combination of scorching sunshine and a cool ocean breeze. Willunga 100’s Tempranillo is a testament to these winning conditions; soft, with strawberry fruit characters and very gentle tannins. This Tempranillo has bags of flavour but remains light, for the ultimate spring indulgence.

Willunga 100 Tempranillo 2010 £9.99

Dorstone (£7.75/180-200g each) – (Unpasteurised goat's milk, traditional rennet). Dorstone is a tall, cylindrically shaped, ash coated, fresh goat's cheese made in Herefordshire. Approximately 6cm round, 7.5cm tall, and 180-200g in weight, Dorstone cheese has a soft, wrinkly rind and a flavour that combines the citrus, salt and creamy qualities that all lovers of goat’s cheese would appreciate. This cheese enhances the fresh acidity of the Verdeca wine.

Kirkham’s Lancashire (£21.00/kg) – (Unpasteurised, traditional rennet). A superb example of a traditional farmhouse cheese, this Lancashire cheese gets its tasty quality from the wind driven sea salt which impregnates the pastures where the Kirkham’s herd of Fresian cows graze. Keeping the curd overnight encourages the development of the acid which gives the cheese its striking whiteness and sharp edged flavour. The cheese has rich grassy flavours with great complexity and a nice tangy finish. A slightly earthy flavour just under the rind contrasts nicely against the fruity, slightly sugary taste of the Chenin Blanc.

Beauvale (£20.00/kg) - (Pasteurised, traditional rennet).

This is an exciting and delicious new blue cheese made from pasteurised cow’s milk and traditional rennet, by award-winning Cropwell Bishop Creamery, Nottinghamshire. Beauvale marks a new direction into softer style blue cheesemaking for the company.

Cropwell Bishop has made Stilton and Shropshire Blue for many years, but developed Beauvale to create something completely new. The Beauvale has a rich and creamy flavour with a slight sweetness to it. As expected, the cheese has subtle reminders of a Stilton taste, but it'sever so slightly more delicate and it balances the gentle, fruity flavour of the wine wonderfully. n

www.paxtonandwhitfield.co.uk www.vinology.co.uk

PAXTON & WHITFIELD STORES: 93 Jermyn Street, London SW1Y 6JE Tel: 020 7930 0259 Fax: 020 7321 0621 1 John Street, Bath BA1 2JL Tel: 01225 466 403 Fax: 01225 466 413 13 Wood Street, Stratford upon Avon CV37 6JF

58

April 2012

Tel: 01789 415 544 Fax: 01789 297 971

FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/ paxtonandwhitfieldstratford

MAIL ORDER/WHOLESALE

TWITTER

Unit 6, Willow Court, Bourton Industrial Estate, Bourton on the Water, Gloucs, GL54 2HQ Tel: 01451 823460 Fax: 01451 823468

www.twitter.com/paxtonscheese

April 2012 59

www.edgemagazine.org Asparagus is early this year

ASPARAGUS IS EARLY THIS YEAR Find it First at Hillers Farm Shop

S

pring iS here, with

the start to the asparagus season earlier than expected!

For asparagus growers, it's the first call of spring and a special landmark in the year when the crop is ready. Traditionally the British asparagus season is mid to late April, through to June. But this year, Hillers have had Warwickshire asparagus in the farm shop since the beginning of April.

Dedicated asparagus growers are passionate about

60

April 2012

this spring favourite and Hillers Farm Shop is too. They source their asparagus from a local supplier, just two miles down the road in Salford Priors, where the crop is freshly cut every day.

Hillers is a family run business that started over 90 years ago from a thriving farm and now they have a successful farm shop. Hillers pride themselves in offering a wide range of fresh quality produce, with enough choice to complete the weekly shop. As well as supporting the local farmers, Hillers strongly believe that local food gives you a fresher and higher standard of produce for your money. Most of these growers are within ten miles of the farm shop. When they say ‘local’, they mean ‘local’; usually, the fruit and vegetables you buy are picked the very same day.

When eaten regularly asparagus boosts the immune system and is said to work preventatively against cancer and heart disease. Expectant mothers should also make the most of the short season and eat as much as they can due to the high folic acid content.

So if you can't wait any longer for the local stuff, visit Hillers Farm Shop, near Alcester. n

The perfect country day out

Visit our award winning FARM SHOP & DELICATESSEN and purchase your fresh vegetables, fruit, meat, fish and other groceries.

Enjoy a hearty homemade lunch at THE GARDEN CAFÉ or try our popular EVENING BISTRO, with a special offer this month of 2 courses for £15.95 and 3 courses for £18.95.

Browse in our GIFTS & INTERIORS store and view our new range of summer clothes, gifts and accessories.

THE HILLERS GARDEN & PLANT CENTRE are on hand with advise and expertise on planting for spring.

Enjoy a walk around our beautiful display gardens where many of the plants on display are for sale.

Dunnington Heath Farm • Alcester • Warwickshire • B49 5PD 01789 772771 • www.hillers.co.uk

www.edgemagazine.org Celebrate with trees

CELEBRATE WITH TREES A Hilary Collins

beautiful Chinese Dogwoods. Cornus kousa, native of Manchuria, is exceptionally hardy and the incredibly graceful C. kousa ‘China Girl’ is a first class small hardy tree of about 20ft. In June, the vanilla white bracts are displayed in profusion against dark green leaves and are followed by brightly coloured strawberry-like fruits in autumn, set off by the gorgeous red/orange autumn leaf colours. Equally beautiful and well behaved are her cousins: C. kousa ‘Milky Way’ and the more sedate C.k.’Miss Satomi’, with rich pink flowers.

our cosy houses and air-conditioned city If you are after a tree which gives additional winter offices, it is all too easy to take trees for granted; interest, then I strongly recommend the rare and after all they are just ...well there, aren’t they? But exciting new introduction Acer x conspicuum ‘Mozart’; man’s strong bond with trees was forged back when with its striking deep raspberry red bark overlaid with he slept under them at night for protection and long vertical silver lines. Apple green summer foliage turns before he began making fire. At one time, trees were butter yellow for the autumn, before dropping to reveal the very essence of our survival, providing food, fuel vivid winter stems. This very and shelter, but as we go about our daily you can plant an Oak small branching tree grows lives, we seem to have lost that personal connection. tree and have your name to only 10 ft in 10 years and enjoys sun or part shade, out of recorded in the Royal It is very humbling to contemplate just how much trees provide for us today; Record of Tree Planting~ cold winds.

All the above are available building materials, medicines, clothing, from Bluebell Nurseries - visit www.bluebellnursery.com. clean air, improved urban environments and paper.

They have a wide range of rare and interesting trees and And it has been scientifically proven that trees make shrubs. us happy. Not only that; they connect us with the past and safeguard our future and are frequently called into Last but by no means least, I recommend the best service for ceremonial, religious and commemorative new English apple introduction this century: ‘Christmas occasions.

Pippin’; a chance seedling discovered growing beside the M5 motorway in 2003 by a great fruit expert. It has In 2012, we have a double celebration with the Olympics and the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. What better now been propagated and is available from the excellent tree specialists Frank P Matthews of Tenbury Wells (visit way is there for us to celebrate these occasions than to www.frankpmatthews.com). It has splendid disease plant something truly special and reconnect with trees? resistance to all the usual apple pests and fungi.

The Woodland Trust have a magnificent campaign From a single small beautiful flowering tree, you will in place for tree planting this year. Centred around harvest up to 53 lbs of attractive red/yellow apples, after English native tree species, you can plant an Oak tree only a few years. The fruits keep well into December and have your name recorded in the Royal Record of and are crisp, juicy and sweet, with excellent aromatic Tree Planting for the Queen's Jubilee. This is a great flavour. n opportunity for schools, companies and people with no space to plant their own tree. Visit www.woodlandtrust. www.envisage-gardens.co.uk 01905 888098 org.uk and learn how you can get involved.

S we Sit in

}

On the other hand, if you are fortunate to have a good sized garden and fancy an oak tree with a twist, take a look at the newly introduced Quercus Palustris ‘Isabel’. This rare oak grows to be a cone shaped, small ornamental bushy tree (at around 10 ft tall) with fiery red and orange autumn colours; Enjoying moist, neutral-acid soils.

Even smaller is Quercus cerris 'Curly Head'; an oak tree that grows to only 1m tall in 10 years - ideal for a patio tub.

My number one choice for flowering trees, with a bombproof constitution, can be found amongst the

62

April 2012

English Oak on the Malvern Hills

'Christmas Pippin' Frank P Matthews

Cornus kousa ‘China Girl’

Hilary Collins

Quercis palustris ‘Isabel’

Acer x conspiccum ‘Mozart Bluebell Nursery

Bluebell Nursery

Bluebell Nursery

April 2012 63

www.edgemagazine.org Cadbury culture

CADBURY CULTURE C in our history and culture.

We've all loved the taste of Cadbury chocolate whilst growing up in Britain in the last century and waited with baited breath for the next magical product to hit the shelves. We’ve had a bag of Cadbury Dairy Milk Buttons in our lunch boxes, Twirls on our tea breaks, Cadbury Roses at Christmas and Cadbury Dairy Milk bars pretty much any day, at any time of the year.

But in the last two decades, Cadbury has invited the British public behind the purple curtains. At Cadbury World, families can experience firsthand, the creation of their favourite treats. adBury chocolate iS rooted

The Bournville attraction opened in 1990, as the first venture into the leisure industry for the Cadbury brand.

Cadbury World has remained one of the most popular destinations in the Midlands and received a record 590,000 visitors in 2011 alone. The success of the attraction is surely down to the encompassing approach of the experience. It’s not just about the chocolate; it’s the heritage, the recipe and the advertising too. Visitors have the opportunity to enter fourteen different zones

64

April 2012

of Cadbury World, climb aboard the Cadabra ride, explore the new African Adventure Play Area and skip in virtual chocolate rain. Let’s take a mini tour.

The Journey to Europe zone creates a 3D lesson in time, covering the discovery of cocoa beans by explorers, the amazing transportation across oceans and the remarkable tale of how chocolate became the drink of choice for high society. Take a walk down the recreation of Bull Street, the original street where John Cadbury first opened his shop in 1824. John Cadbury’s inspiring story begins with his Quaker upbringing in Birmingham, his decision to go into business at a young age and his advocacy for animal rights. Through a video presentation, visitors will be transported back to John Cadbury’s 19th century shop, where he used to sell cocoa as an alternative to alcohol and where he invented Cadbury’s first milk chocolate bar.

The production of Cadbury chocolate can be viewed in a special effects cinema, discussing the special ingredients but also the meticulous process involved in

perfecting the unique taste of Cadbury chocolate. You can also visit the Chocolate Making zone and watch on as chocolatiers handcraft and decorate chocolates which can be purchased in the onsite Cadbury World Shop.

You even get to write your name in liquid chocolate.

The Manufacturing zone takes a more in depth look into the production of some of our favourite indulgences, where interactive videos describe how Cadbury Dairy Milk Buttons, Cadbury Creme Eggs and Cadbury Roses are manufactured.

Advertising Avenue allows you to tap into your inner entrepreneur, reviewing the exciting history of Cadbury’s marketing campaigns. Of course, the legacy of Cadbury is not just the chocolate but the brand itself.

On Advertising Avenue, you will gain an interesting perspective on a century in business, beginning with the Quaker influence on the ethics of the company.

What’s impressive is how an advert reflects the mood of the time; in Advertising Avenue, you will experience an education in social history, as well as the heritage of the brand. In the last decade, Cadbury’s advertising has come into its own, with its leading characters becoming as famous as the chocolate they promote. No doubt everyone remembers the gorilla playing the drums to Phil Collins’ track, In the Air Tonight. Well at Cadbury

World, you can meet the gorilla!

Chocolate lovers can succumb to their sweet-tooth, with a fun filled, interactive day out for the entire family. You can spend your summer holiday in the Purple Planet zone, trying to chase a Cadbury Creme Egg or even growing your own cocoa beans. It’s a fantastic way for everyone to get to grips with how chocolate is made; from the growth of the cocoa bean to the choice of packaging the chocolate’s wrapped in.

Throughout the year, Cadbury World showcases several events to coincide with school holidays. This May, it’ll be time to dust off your peg leg and fix on your eye patch for the Pirate Weekend, as Cadbury World prepares to be overrun with swashbuckling pirates. Ooh argh! n www.cadburyworld.co.uk 0844 880 7667

April 2012 65

www.edgemagazine.org Any occasion cakes

ANY OCCASION CAKES Cupcake Demonstration Workshop with Vintage Tea

W

of workshops with our most popular being a basic cupcake decorating demonstration with vintage tea. e provide a variety

The three hour workshop begins with a professional demonstration after which you get to have a little go at some techniques (this is not a hands on decorating class). The demonstration is followed up with vintage tea and incorporates sugar cubes, sugar tongs, cake slices, silver ware, real vintage china crockery, bunting and much more.

You will then get to take home one of the creations from the workshop packaged in a cellophane gift bag.

Our workshops are aimed at those individuals looking for time out, with a relaxed approach within a friendly environment. This is not a technical lesson and is not aimed at the professional decorators out there.

We host private bespoke workshops too.

You choose the theme; baby shower, birthday or bridal. n

ADVERTORIAL

www.anyoccasioncakes.com 07958 629 870

66

April 2012

Thinking Holidays?

Let CARRICK take care of it ...

CARRICK TRAVEL

5 Warwick Road, Kenilworth CV8 1HD. 01926 858 434 Also offices in - Leamington Spa, Stratford-upon-Avon, Cheylesmore in Coventry, Pershore, Evesham, Bourton-on-the-Water and Chipping Norton www.carricktravel.com April 2012 67

www.edgemagazine.org Worcester Music Festival

WORCESTER MUSIC FESTIVAL Nearly 500 Bands Apply to Play

H

ailing froM colwall to Cameroon, a whopping 480 original bands and artists have now applied to play at Worcester Music Festival 2012 on the August Bank Holiday weekend (24th-27th).

Covering a range of genres, from acoustic folk, blues, stomp rock and psychedelic jazz to punk, electro pop and thrash metal, both signed and unsigned acts have put in a request to perform.

68

April 2012

Amongst the applicants are bands and artists whose music has been featured by the likes of BBC Radio 1 and 2, BBC Radio 6 Music to NMW Radio and Q Radio, at festivals including Radio 1’s Big Weekend and Livefest at the 02 and in the top 10 of the iTunes Rock Chart.

Already confirmed is guitar god and Worcester Music Festival favourite Jon Gomm, who was recently projected into the national media spotlight after a simple “wow” from Stephen Fry on Twitter led to more than two million views of Jon’s extraordinary playing style on YouTube.

“The festival had a real buzz about it last year and so many bands who played contacted us afterwards to say how much they enjoyed the experience,” said festival committee co-chairperson Ant Robbins. “Word has, obviously, got out and we can’t wait to start going through the applications, some of which look amazing, to start announcing the acts in May. “With more outdoor gigs and family-friendly workshops, as well as some fantastic new city venues, this year’s festival is a date in the diary for all music fans.

A brilliant and free way to get away from ‘talent’ shows on the television and tap into some real music that’s live and original.”

Around 100 acts who have applied to perform are from Worcester and the wider county, but organisers are still keen to see more ‘local’, original artists who can play live coming forward.

can also sign up to follow the festival on Facebook and Twitter. n www.worcestermusicfestival.co.uk

“The festival, which is in its fifth year, was founded

by Worcester promoter Chris Bennion to showcase local music, and continuing with this ethos is extremely important to us,” said Ant. “We are, of course, also looking forward to welcoming bands from across the UK and beyond.”

Worcester Music Festival 2011 took place in 30 venues across the city, from pubs, clubs, cafes and outdoor spaces to historic buildings such as the Guildhall, attracting an audience of 11,000.

Highlights included Worcestershire’s The Roving Crows, who won Best Celtic Rock Band and Best Irish Fiddle Player at this year’s Irish Music Awards, Worcester band Robinson, whose new album Beneath the Ballroom is receiving rave reviews, with Tom Waits-inspired frontman Andy Robinson a favourite of Radio 2’s Janice Long, and Kidderminster rockers Vault of Eagles.

For more information on the festival, which is run by volunteers and has raised nearly £20,000 for local charities, visit www.worcestermusicfestival.co.uk, where you can browse our "Meet the musicians" section. You

April 2012 69

www.edgemagazine.org Time in

TIME IN

Rather Than Timing Thomas Ware

W

the hustle and bustle of the trading floors in the world’s financial hubs; traders juggling a phone in each ear, selling high and buying low. But this is a world away from the average investor and the objectives they are looking to fulfil with their personal investment portfolio. Whilst it may in fact be possible for an investor to ‘sell high and buy low’ in practise, the chances of timing it right are slim.

The real question is: over the long term, can this increase investment return? e can all picture

days of one of the 20 worst days, as documented by The Vanguard Group, 2010.

As you would expect off the back of these extreme moves in the market, the effects of timing are also acute. The Vanguard Group stated that missing either the 20 worst or 20 best trading days in the 80 year period from 1928 to

}

Let us begin by looking at the dynamics of a stock market cycle; the very fact the cycle exists in the format it does, is because it’s impossible to predict. If we could call a cycle, then more people would do it and the cycle would not be as extreme. Historically, the best and worst trading days tend to cluster in brief time periods, often during periods of heightening uncertainty and distress. From 1928 to 2008, of the best 20 trading days during the period, 8 occurred within 10

70

April 2012

Investment results largely depend on how one behaves near the top and near the bottom JOHN MAYNARD KEYNES~ 2008 (or 0.1% of the 20,340 total trading days), would have increased or decreased an investor’s return by approximately 50%. However, this is not to say that we cannot make changes to our investment portfolios, to take advantage of opportunities created by the market.

This is done not through market timing but rather through the practice of Tactical Asset Allocation (TAA).

TAA is a form of ‘fine-tuning’ to the strategic asset mix, often in response to a broad market trend. Such deviation may be left in place for lengthy periods of time as economic or market conditions warrant. Market timing, on the other hand, is akin to betting. Its success depends on profitably gauging the size and scope of random market spikes, while avoiding the equally prevalent random market troughs. It is clear market timing could add value, but the probability of repeated success is slight. Tactical moves, however, can take advantage of price movements, if conducted in the right way.

In times of market volatility, the temptation to try your hand at market timing is stronger than ever but the data would suggest a slump is something that must be weathered, with as much equanimity and patience as possible.

Now, more than ever, a long term view is essential. n www.churchillinvestments.co.uk

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

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

Modern methods, traditional values.

01934 844444

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

Pensions_Ad_271x184_AW.indd 1

25/08/2011 10:16

www.edgemagazine.org Feckenham flower and garden festival

FECKENHAM FLOWER AND GARDEN FESTIVAL 12th – 13th May 2012

T

hiS hugely SucceSSful triennial festival, which is now entering its 27th year, raises funds for the Church Fabric Fund, which goes towards the general maintenance of Feckenham’s historic 12th century parish church of St. John the Baptist.

Feckenham is a charming Domesday village, situated along the saltway that runs from Droitwich to Alcester.

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

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

We hope to have approximately 30 gardens open to visitors. Many of our gardens are hidden and vary enormously in size and style. This variety creates a huge amount of interest, with an element of surprise. There

will also be a magnificent flower festival in the church themed ‘with hearts and hands and voices’.

Located on The Square will be stands for: well known local nurseries selling plants, The Barn traditional and contemporary garden supplies, Feckenham Forest History Society and Churchfields Farmhouse Ice Cream.

There will be W.I. teas in the Village Hall and a pig roast/ barbeque too.

The festival will be open 12 - 6pm Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th May. Visitors should follow all signs to the Festival car park in the village, adjacent to Winfields Store, where upon admission they will be provided with a detailed programme. Disabled parking is available.

Admission - £5.00 per person - children under 16 go free! n www.feckenham.com

FECKENHAM FLOWER AND GARDEN FESTIVAL This triennial festival to raise funds for our 12th century parish church will be held on the weekend of Saturday the 12th and Sunday the 13th May 2012, from 12 – 6pm.

Approximately 30 gardens will be open, with a flower festival in the church, plant sales, WI teas and a barbeque/pig roast. Parking is available. £5 per adult.

Feckenham is situated in Worcestershire on the B4090, between Droitwich and Alcester.

Contact: Catherine Fisher, 07931 338291.

Email: catherine.fisher@talk21.com

72

April 2012

LORENZO’S CARIBBEAN JERK CHICKEN Serves (4) Chef Lorenzo Richards Award-winning chef, Lorenzo Richards, was born to Jamaican parents in 1971. Passionate about Caribbean cuisine, he has developed his craft over the past twenty years. His popular concept restaurant, The Wildmoor Oak, opened in 2007 and brings an authentic taste of the Caribbean to a rural Worcestershire location.

The Wildmoor Oak, Top Road, Wildmoor, Near Bromsgrove, Worcestershire B61 0RB Tel: 0121 453 2696, Email: enquiries@wildmooroak.com www.wildmooroak.com

INGREDIENTS 4 chicken breast quarter portions 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika 2 teaspoons of cinnamon 2 teaspoons of all-purpose seasoning

METHOD Jerk seasoning Place all the ingredients in a blender, except the oil and chicken, and blitz until they are roughly chopped.

Then add oil slowly. Your jerk seasoning is now ready.

1.

Wash chicken quarters in vinegar and water.

2.

Get a large bowl and rub ¾ of your jerk seasoning all over the chicken.

2 teaspoons of minced fresh ginger

3.

Cover and leave in fridge over night.

2 sprigs of spring onion

4.

Mix the final ¼ of jerk paste into some Smokey barbeque sauce and also put in fridge over night.

5.

Cook chicken for approx 30 minutes* on your barbeque. Allow to colour (golden brown) with the core temperature to exceed 65oC.

6.

Glaze with jerk barbeque sauce.

1 large onion 5 cloves of garlic

140 ml vegetable oil 56 ml of soy sauce 4 sprigs of fresh thyme 1/2 teaspoon of curry powder 1 teaspoon of blended fresh scotch bonnet 112 ml of quality smoked barbeque sauce

*A gas BBQ will cook food more quickly than a charcoal one. Cut the chicken on the joint to check for clear fluids before serving, or use a food thermometer. n

SERVING SUGGESTION Serve with summer salad, coleslaw and rice.

April 2012 73

www.edgemagazine.org How to add value to your home

HOW TO ADD VALUE TO YOUR HOME S

EDITORIAL

ince the downturn in the property market, it’s bordering on impossible to ‘do up’ your house cheaply to turn around a quick sale. But this isn’t necessarily a bad thing.

Your home is your hide away from the outside world; the setting for your free time and the place you look forward to getting back to. So why only grab the paintbrush just before the ‘for sale’ signs go up? If you are going to spend the money on your property, we suggest sensible choices you’ll enjoy, keeping the future in mind. After all, when you come to sell, it could be

74

April 2012

that the new kitchen will be ripped out for something chosen by the new owners and the colours on the walls that you love may not be loved by everyone who comes to view your property. Its seems wasteful when you think of all the time and hard earned cash you have invested in the décor of your house, could all be whitewashed over. If you consider the long term value of your house whilst you decorate, you’re far more likely to sell your property at a decent price; it’s all about the bigger picture.

The kitchen is the heart of your home. It is without a doubt the best place to inject some money. There are a variety of options to consider when looking at changing your kitchen, but here are our top tips to get the kitchen you want, within your budget, that will add value to your property, if you do decide to move in the future.

One of the things that always crops up here is kitchen cabinets. Many of us dream of a handcrafted bespoke kitchen and nothing says quality quite like it. Having a bespoke kitchen ensures that you get exactly what you want. With bespoke, you can design the style of your units to flow effortlessly, incorporating the existing structural features of the room and complementing the property as a whole. While that is an option for some and prices often aren’t as expensive as you would think, it is not a viable option for everyone, especially those looking to move in the near future. But don’t

be disheartened! Simple changes such as having new cabinet doors and splashing out a little on the handles can make a huge difference and using a local carpenter will ensure a great finish, at a fraction of the cost of a whole new kitchen. If that still sounds a little steep to you, check out We Spray Anything. They can take your existing units and breathe new life into them, turning them into any style of kitchen you want, giving your wood cabinets a metal look and feel, not just metallic in colour, the spray they use is 95% pure metal. Or they’ll create a leather effect out of your chip-board that actually feels and behaves like real leather!

Kitchens get a lot of use, so the general wear and tear can be the worst in this space. It shows in the fittings, so update switches and sockets and replace worn floor tiles or stones. If you can stretch to it, a new work top made out of wood or quartz will add life to any well used kitchen or your existing ones could also be modified in the same way as your cabinets at We Spray Anything.

Another trick is to create space and the illusion of simplicity. De-clutter your kitchen with inexpensive plate racks and hanging rails for utensils; it’ll make a huge difference.

Onto the bathroom, this is usually second on everybody’s list for improvements. It’s a great place to install some gadgets; power showers, heated towel rails and waterfall basin taps. But again, a revamp doesn’t necessarily mean ripping the whole thing out and starting again. The best tip is to ensure that your bathroom is clean and warm. If you are keeping your suite, then regrout and add new taps or a shiny new shower head as a quick and easy fix. Plus, updating the floor in the bathroom can change the whole dynamic of the room. Combine a new floor, some new fittings and a lick of paint and you’re away.

Perhaps the best investment you can make for the future of your home, or a sale, is an extension or conservatory. It is still definitely cheaper to build space than to buy it, whether it is an extra bedroom you’re thinking of, adding a few metres onto the kitchen or creating a new space to sit back and relax, this will always add value to your property. Don’t forget that you need planning permission, but have a look around to test the water in your area first. Do the neighbours have a conservatory or a games room? This is a good way to gauge what the response will be from your local council.

We are all slaves to work these days, whether you still work every day, or you have spent the last 40 years doing so and are now enjoying retirement, your home is your sanctuary, your little place away from everyone else.

Investing money back into your home as you go will not only improve the décor and facilities whilst you’re living there, but save you money in the long term, making it easier to sell your house for more in the future. It’s always good to keep your options open. n We Spray Anything 01527 877129

Expert design service Stunning displays Full project management

It’s not often that you shop for a new bathroom or kitchen, that’s why it is worth getting all the help and advice you can.

From the initial planning and dreaming stage right through to expert installation, our job is to make it easy for you.

creative inspirational different

You don’t need to look at a screen or pictures, it’s all on display so you know what you are buying.

We listen to what you want, and use our experience to save you money and time.

Visit our showroom and support your local independent retailer.

www.ktbgallery.co.uk

www.edgemagazine.org Bespoke quality with Rebate conservatories

BESPOKE QUALITY WITH REBATE CONSERVATORIES R

independent manufacturing company, located in Worcestershire, with a reputation for designing and building top quality orangeries, conservatories and garden rooms. They create beautiful additions to complement all properties and dĂŠcor, allowing you to get that extra living space you need and ensuring that you can enjoy your garden all year round. A Rebate conservatory will also add value to your home. eBate conServatorieS are an

EDITORIAL

All designs are created to order and are made in house by their own highly skilled craftsmen, using only the best hand selected cedar, mahogany and oak. Because these conservatories are bespoke, the finished product blends seamlessly with the existing space. About 70% of Rebate clients live in Grade II listed buildings and the team have even worked with National Trust buildings; so rest assured your beloved home will be in good hands.

76

April 2012

Rebate also handle everything from concept through to product; you don’t need to worry about complex planning laws. And they can even landscape your garden for you, to help make the most of your new addition.

Although based in Kidderminster, they will more than happily travel to any locations in the Midlands and beyond. They’ve completed projects in Worcestershire, Warwickshire and the Cotswolds, and even over in Ireland. Wherever you are, if you are considering a conservatory, orangery or garden room, you can benefit from the expertise of Roger, Jenny and the rest of the team.

Rebate have been designing and constructing bespoke glass buildings for over 20 years, meaning that they have the expertise and experience to design a building that meets your every requirement. Rebate can advise on aspects such as position, size, architectural design and connection with adjoining buildings. They will visit your home or site to talk through your project and create a building that precisely meets your needs and enhances the original features of your home. n

THINGS YOU MAY NOT KNOW •

Because Rebate is an independent company, they are not restricted by set styles, shapes and sizes.

•

If you’re building is listed, you don’t have to pay VAT when having an orangery, conservatory or garden room built.

•

Rebate is based in Worcestershire and covers the whole of the UK.

•

70% of planning permission is agreed for listed buildings, as often they have not been extended before.

•

The average completion time of a bespoke Rebate conservatory is 10 weeks from design to product.

April 2012 77

www.edgemagazine.org Bathroom city

BATHROOM CITY B

athrooM city, Britain’S BiggeSt bathroom factory outlet, are unrivalled in the wholesale and retail markets. Selling directly from their Birmingham based factory, Bathroom City cut out the middleman, ensuring every customer is spoilt for choice and offered great value. Designing, manufacturing and selling straight from their factory outlet means direct savings on designer fitted bathroom suites, furniture, vanity units and sanitary ware. With next day delivery, thousands of products in stock within their giant 65,000 sq ft warehouse and free design services, Bathroom City deserves its reputation as the UK’s leading bathroom suites retailer.

Bathroom City was founded in 1986 by Dash Virdee.

Born in the West Midlands, Bathroom City has grown over the years to become the UK’s leading bathroom suites and bathroom furniture superstore retailer.

All Bathroom City products are in stock for fast free delivery anywhere in the UK when you spend £550.

Bathroom City only offer you top quality bathroom suites, bathroom furniture, vanity units and sanitary ware. Sourcing the best pieces worldwide, as well as offering pieces made at the UK bathrooms factory that are unique to Bathroom City guarantees the customer is offered the biggest choice at the lowest prices.

Being a factory outlet, Bathroom City also offers customers a cash and carry service, meaning you can pick your products and take them away with you on the day. Offering two showrooms in Tyseley, Birmingham, they both showcase different brands and products.

Bathroom City showrooms are less than 10 minutes apart and just 15 minutes from the M42, the NEC and Birmingham Airport. Make sure you visit both showrooms if you want to see the massive collection of modern and traditional bathroom equipment, suitable for projects great and small.

ADVERTORIAL

Manufacturing these unique designs requires great skill and craftsmanship, using the very best materials and handcrafted techniques. These processes guarantee the highest quality is achieved. By making their own products, Bathroom City ensure a level of quality and authenticity unequalled anywhere else in the UK.

At Bathroom City the philosophy is simple; Quality

78

April 2012

British built products at amazing factory prices for every customer.

PRACTICAL LUXURY Ever thought about the ergonomics of your bathroom? Admittedly it is a little drier than thinking about the pretty things, design styles, colour schemes and what tile goes where, but making our bathrooms not only beautiful but also more practical can be a difficult job. Bathrooms are multi-purpose spaces after all; in the mornings when we’re rushing we need practicality, in the evenings and at the weekend when we’re relaxing, we look for luxury and comfort.

So, to get it right (and to add value to your home) you need to trust the experts. The team at Bathroom City specialise in creating the right environment for your needs and not only sell beautiful designer bathroom suites but also design, create and hand-craft their own range including the new Emotions bathroom furniture series, so you can be sure you're getting something special. Their Emotions range has been designed to work fluidly with the needs of your home and features a combination of ground-breaking and stylish solutions that offer practicality along with exceptional levels of comfort.

Manufactured here in the midlands, the designer suites combine clear design, elegant form, sleek functionality and exceptional quality with the very best materials and hand-crafted techniques to ensure your bathroom will look as good in years to come as it does today.

What's even better is that as well as offering the topend Emotions Range, Bathroom City stock top brands at up to 60% off the RRP, meaning you can get the designer look for less. n For more information on the Emotions range call 0121 7530700 or visit the showrooms at: Amington Road, Tyseley Business Estate, Birmingham B25 8ET. Factory Outlet: Unit 15, Seeleys Road, Industrial Estate, Birmingham, B11 2LQ. www.bathroomcity.co.uk

April 2012 79

www.edgemagazine.org Confessions of a Colour Addict

CONFESSIONS OF A COLOUR ADDICT O n a MiSSion to brighten up our wardrobes, our style expert, Meg Hanlon, is here to bring a little colour into your life.

Hello. My name is Meg and I am addicted to colour.

Luckily for me and anyone else who gets a little bored of black, ‘tis the season to be colourful. Yes, the colour blocking trend continues boldly into this spring and summer, giving the colour cautious a chance to get to grips with brighter hues.

But, how do you work colour into your wardrobe, without looking like you’re about to run off with the circus?

First off, you need to understand your own colouring. I’m a firm believer that there’s no point in just following the latest fashion fads if they don’t do anything for you. They have to make you look good!

If you have clear, strong colouring with dark hair and fair skin, then this trend is perfect for you and will really make your eyes sparkle. A pair of coloured jeans, together with a contrasting top will look stunning. If you’re petite, beware of breaking the colour up at the waist, as this can have a shortening effect. You could opt for a single colour outfit with a bright necklace. For those who are broad of hip, stick with dark navy for your jeans and keep the brights above the waist.

The shade for this summer is tangerine tango! Yes, orange is in big time. You need to have a warm skin tone to make it work for you. If you have really dark hair you could team it with black, but if you’re blonde or brunette that combination will be too strong, so try toning it down with taupe trousers.

What do you do if your colouring is softer? No doubt you’re worried you might end up looking more Coco the Clown than Coco Chanel. The answer is accessories. This could be pairing neutral separates with a pair of vibrant shoes. The La Peep court shoes by Mary Portas for Clarks are really eye catching and affordable. But as lovely as they are, you don’t want people only looking at your feet, so pair your La Peeps with a silk scarf or chunky beads in a similar hue.

A striking pendant necklace in one of your favourite shades can be used for contrast, have you ever tried putting green with purple? You could also use the necklace to lend a new lease of life to other clothes from your wardrobe or to lift a neutral outfit. This necklace from Debenhams gives a great nod to the tangerine trend for the summer.

If all else fails, a really quick and easy solution to your colour dilemmas is to update your handbag. And no, it doesn’t need to match your shoes. Adorned in Worcester have a gorgeous range of colourful bags, including a beautiful red patent one that I’ve got my eye on...

So, if you haven’t already embraced colour blocking, why not take the plunge? As for me, I won’t be checking in for colour rehab just yet. n

80

April 2012

FIND THE ITEMS FEATURED AT: www.clarks.co.uk www.debenhams.com www.adorneduk.com

Meg Hanlon Leading Stylist, Colour Me Beautiful www.changeyourlook.co.uk 01684 773166 Twitter: @CMBStylistMeg Facebook: Colour Me Beautiful - Meg Hanlon Change Your Look, Change Your Life

Mick

By Ronnie Wood

cOnteMpORaRy fine aRt and SculptuRe fROM caStle GalleRieS, StRatfORd

Upcoming EvEnts peter Smith artist appearance - saturday 9 June 12-3pm. daisy boman exhibition - saturday 14 July – sunday 22 July.

Salvador dali, Of time & Space exhibition - saturday 11 August – sunday 9 september.

Official StOckiSt Of bOb dylan, ROnnie wOOd and billy cOnnOlly’S SiGned, liMited editiOn aRtwORk 2 Bards Walk, Stratford Upon Avon, CV37 6EY t: 01789 262 031 e: stratford@castlegalleries.com @castlegalleries I castlegalleries.com

CG_Strat_Edge Mag Ad_0312_AW.indd 1

30/03/2012 15:01

April 2012 81

www.edgemagazine.org The Stratford Fringe Festival

THE STRATFORD FRINGE FESTIVAL S fringe feStival iS one of the brilliant, fresh, exciting events on the Stratford calendar, which inspires the unconventional. There’s over 40 venues and over 150 events; all over nine days. At this year’s festival you can look forward to no less than a series of extraordinary events, with guests to entertain, amuse and delight. The festival takes place between the 2nd and 10th of June and will include storytelling, comedy nights, live music, theatre from across the country, outdoor performances, free arts workshops, poetry and vibrant dance troupes. tratford

Kicking off the festival on the 2nd will be Julian Lloyd Webber and the Orchestra of the Swan, performing their Spring Sounds repertoire at the Civic Hall and don’t miss Iranian sculptor, Aziz Anzabi with his exhibition at the MAD Museum; expect 3D art made from empty coke cans. Anzabi’s art has been displayed and purchased worldwide. Some of his work can be viewed at the Tehran Museum and has even appeared on national stamps in Kicking off the the Middle East. on the 2nd will

comedy spectacular Little Howard’s Big Show. This performance features songs, sketches, magic, a cheeky pigeon from Barnsley and a large frying pan. Expect a truly animated performance.

For the art lovers out there, the Stratford Fringe Festival will have a fantastic line-up of photography exhibitions, sculptor showcases and life drawing classes.

So, if you want to take part, you can. And it wouldn’t really be a Stratford festival without some theatre companies doing their thing. The Attic at Cox’s Yard is just one of the venues putting on some fantastic theatrical performances, from The Wind in the Willows to Unresolved: Voices of Spoon River-The Actors Collective. And don’t miss Matthew Lombardo’s play, Tea at Five- where a young Katherine Hepburn awaits the phone call to find out whether she got the role of Scarlett O’Hara in Gone with the Wind.

Marion Morgan, Fringe Director, says, ‘The Stratford Fringe Festival is only in its festival third year, but we have seen a massive be Julian leap forward this year - which in itself is remarkable given the current financial If music is your thing, then Lloyd Webber and the the Stratford Fringe Festival have Orchestra of the Swan~ climate in arts funding. The Stratford Fringe Festival is, we believe, unique in organised a Battle of the Bands its collaborative approach to programming, drawing competition at the Buzz Café. It’s a fantastic opportunity on the incredible pool of local arts organisations and for local musicians to perform. The prize? Recording artistic talent in the town and the surrounding area, time with Rhythm Studios and one of the country’s whilst inviting and attracting visiting artists who share leading independent sound engineers, Paul Johnston, the same aims as us - to make Stratford not only a place who has recorded with everyone from Black Sabbath for lovers of Shakespeare to visit, but for lovers of the to the Brothers McLeod. There’s also the Short Film arts in all their guises. It has been a long hard slog to get competition, where all you wannabe directors and the Fringe to the point it's at now - in the first year we videographers can send in your work with the hope of had under 20 venues and about 50 events and we now winning at the awards evening at The Chapel on June have over 40 venues, over 150 events and a key sponsor 7th. Submissions will be screened at venues throughout in Marstons - but with this year's line-up of headline the town, but the entry deadline is May 25th, so get performers and a really invigorating programme of shooting. workshops, activities and performances for people of all The Fringe Festival also attracts many comedy greats ages, it's really been worth it!’ to Stratford in June. Milton Jones is a multi-award For more information on the headliners and winning comedian. He has been a panellist many times performances at the Fringe Festival this year, head to on Mock the Week and recently performed on Michael http://www.stratfordfringe.co.uk/, for the full list of McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow. He has also recently had venues and events. If you would like to enter the Battle his ninth radio series commissioned for BBC Radio 4; of the Bands competition, then it’s not too late, just call his deadpan delivery and neurotic style are sure to add 01789 490233. n a bit of dry wit to this year’s festival. Also performing is the nations’ favourite human-cartoon double act, Big Howard and Little Howard, with their brand new

}

82

April 2012

STRATFORD UPON AVON

FESTIVAL

PROUD SPONSORS OF STRATFORD FRINGE

April 2012 83

www.edgemagazine.org Shelsley Walsh Hill Climb

SHELSLEY WALSH HILL CLIMB T

Shelsley Walsh, Worcestershire, is staged by the Midlands Automobile Club. It is one of the oldest motorsports events in the world. In fact, it’s the oldest to have been staged continuously on the same track, having been run since 1905. he hill cliMB at

Even those who are not massive motorsports fans will enjoy this day out at Shelsley. If the narrow track, with some of the steepest hills around isn’t enough to inspire you, the surrounding countryside will be sure to take your breath away. Just down the road are many beautiful country pubs, restaurants, spas and an art gallery.

One of the biggest events in the Midlands Automobile Club calendar comes to Shelsley Walsh on May the 5th and 6th; it’s the first hill climb event of the season and their May Midlander meeting.

The main event on Sunday, is the second of ten rounds of the 2012 TTC Group Midland Hill Climb Championship, which is based on positions in the 22 classes of modern speed hill climbing, ranging from road-going production cars, through to unlimited capacity, single seater racing cars; many of which fitted with F1 derived engines.

There are nine points for winning each class, down to one point dependent on the number of entries in the class. For the most competitive drivers, there is a bonus point for reducing their class record which always heightens their commitment.

In addition, the fastest twelve contenders in each set of class runs qualify for an Avon/BMTR Top Ten Challenge twelve car run-off. Drivers compete for ten points, down to 1 point for tenth place and nothing for positions 11 and 12 or any non-finishers.

The run-offs commence at the end of morning class runs on Sunday and at the end of the day's competition.

Saturday is the practice day, when all competitors are offered two practice runs.

In addition to the 2012 TTC Group Midland Hill Climb Championship and Avon/BMTR Top Ten Challenge, the meeting includes classes for entrants in the Paul Matty Sports Cars Lotus Championship and

84

April 2012

special classes for 'Flat Head' historic cars with side valve engines and Historic Aston Martin Racing Club members.

There will also be a class of entrants from the British Women Racing Drivers Club, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year.

Last year’s TTC Group Midland Hill Climb Champion and multiple Midland title winner Rob Stevens from Buckinghamshire, is expected to be back in the up to 2 litres sports racing car class. Rob drives a self-developed Force SR4 sports racer, with a supercharged Suzuki Hayabusa engine. Rob expects a power hike this year, taking the engine up from 1300cc to nearly 1600cc.

At the last Shelsley Walsh 'Big One' Meeting, Rob sliced his previous class record from 25.99s to 25.74s, taking a bonus point in the process. Can he go even quicker at our May Midlander? Make sure that you’re there to find out! n Tickets: 5th – Advanced £10.00 On Gate £12.00 6th – Advanced £12.00 On Gate £15.00

April 2012 85

www.edgemagazine.org The Elms Hotel

THE ELMS HOTEL H

aving Been voted worceSterShire Hotel of the Year 2011, The Elms Hotel & Spa is now under the new ownership of Nigel Chapman, who dreamt up the original concept of Luxury Family Hotels.

At Edge Magazine, we felt we had to pay a visit, to sample the delights of this lovely getaway in Abberley, Worcestershire.

The Elms Hotel is an elegant Queen Anne mansion, surrounded by ten acres of beautiful gardens, overlooking the Teme Valley. Complete with its own spa and Ofsted registered crèche, it is the perfect place for a break away with the kids; and for those with responsibilities of the four-legged variety, they are welcome too.

This hotel is family friendly, but if you think that means compromising on quality, you couldn’t be further from the truth. Luxury Family Hotels or LFH as they are sometimes known, were created with the vision of giving stressed out families the chance to relax, unwind and spend quality time together in some of England’s finest country houses, without parents having to concede on the little luxuries they relished before the kids came along. Nigel Chapman, the group’s original founder, launched LFH in 1989, with the opening of Woolley Grange in Wiltshire and expanded it to include three other country house properties, all based on the same ethos. For a whole generation of families, Luxury Family Hotels became almost a lifestyle – hotels with a house-party atmosphere that felt like you were coming to stay at a rather stunning home-from-home.

Nigel sold LFH to von Essen in 2005 but when the group went into administration last year, Nigel jumped at the chance to buy his original properties back, with a few additions – The Elms being one of them. A new generation of Luxury Family Hotels had been created, just waiting for a new generation of families.

EDITORIAL

The attention to detail that Nigel is so passionate about is evident as soon as you check in. Our welcome was warm and hospitable, with friendly smiles and relaxed, confident service.

The rooms in the main house are all individual in style. Tastefully decorated and spacious, they have the ability to add in extra beds or cots for the little ones. If your brood is significantly larger, older, or you’ve come to visit with extended family, there are also rooms available with connecting doors and a large family suite that can accommodate up to seven guests with two

86

April 2012

separate bedrooms, bathrooms and a lounge area. The rooms vary in size and character, but each retains the cosiness of an English country house.

Children must feel like VIPs at The Elms. The fabulous Bears Den offers childcare, with a huge selection of toys, games and activities, giving adults the chance for some time together if they choose. Throughout the hotel, there is a wide range of children's books, board games and DVDs that you can help yourself to during your stay, whilst the wellies of all sizes lined up at the back door can be borrowed for children to race around the spacious grounds. You can play a little football or croquet on the front lawn or simply enjoy watching the children on the adventure playground. And don't forget to look out for Tickle the chocolate Labrador and George the big black cat.

The Elms Spa is the perfect place for a spot of ‘metime’, with the kids checked into the Bears Den. I had a fantastic facial but was seriously tempted by a number of other treatments including various massages and the wonderful sounding Monticelli Warm Mud Cocoon. For mums-to-be, there’s a whole range of Mama Mio treatments and there is even an extensive men’s collection to make sure everyone can relax and unwind. The spa offers a good balance between adult only tranquillity and family fun in the pool area, where children and parents are welcome all day. For anyone living locally, you don’t have to be staying at the hotel to make use of the spa facilities, it is also the perfect place to unwind, meet up for a coffee and enjoy a mid-week treat when the kids are at school.

A highlight of our stay was dinner in The Brookes restaurant. With children tucked away upstairs, evenings at The Elms are all about the grown-ups. With its high ceiling, carved fireplace and sweeping views over the lawns, The Brookes restaurant makes a lovely setting for a special dinner. The menu offers fresh, locally sourced food, which on the night we were there included a delicious herb crusted rump of local lamb served with puy lentils, violet artichokes and sprouting broccoli as well as pan- seared fillet of seabass, served with an open lasagne of mussels and leeks with a vermouth veloute.

I just managed to squeeze in the passion fruit crème brûlée with mango and lime purée and coconut sorbet, which I’m happy to report, was up there with the best of them. It was a close call between that and the trio of desserts – always handy when you’re feeling indecisive.

We rounded off our stay the following morning, with coffee and homemade biscuits in The Pear Terrace, whilst soaking up fabulous views over the Teme Valley.

With its al fresco dining, this would make a lovely spot for lunch or dinner in the summer months.

Whether you’re looking for a special weekend away, a midweek treat, or a family celebration, The Elms Hotel & Spa ticks all the boxes; it’s luxurious, fun and the perfect getaway for all the family. n

April 2012 87

www.edgemagazine.org In your county

IN YOUR COUNTY JON WELSH LAUNCHES BOOK ON STRATFORD Photographer Jon Welsh will be hosting an exhibition at the Civic Hall, Stratford, from the end of this month.

The exhibition will run for six weeks, showcasing Jon’s contemporary, limited edition photographic prints and celebrating the release of his first book, Have Patience. The collection features photographs taken between 2007 and 2011, in and around Stratford-upon-Avon.

Jon says "as a photographer, I am always interested in growth, change, movement, colour and form. Initially, the floods in the summer of 2007 held an interest and the landscape shifted for a short while. The transformation of Stratford started that same year. As I progressed with my work, I drew a parallel with the wonderful scenes and Shakespeare's own influence.”.

Jon has exhibited work in national and private galleries, such as the New Walsall Art Gallery and the Saatchi Gallery. He has recently been featured on Saatchi Online with his explosive ‘Burning Van’ image. If you would like to know more, head over to www.jonwelsh.com.

WORCESTER PRIMARY SCHOOL HOLDS FUNDRAISER The Friends of St George's Roman Catholic Primary School, Worcester, hosted a fabulous fashion show and ladies night to a sell out audience last month. All guests were treated to a glass of pink fizz and a goody bag on arrival and had the opportunity to sample products from many of the local businesses who supported event.

The evening opened with a ‘wardrobe detox’ and style advice from Cathryn Seymour of Mystyle. This was followed by a fashion show, featuring the latest collections from Hush Womenswear, 2nd Skin and 31B. Models included Pippa Langhorne from 2011 Britain's Got Talent and Miss Worcester 2011, Verity Gwilliam.

The evening raised a total of £1100, which will help fund various projects within the school. The Friends of St George’s Primary School would like to thank all who attended.

EGGSTRAVAGANZA AT YOUR IDEAS REDDITCH Hereford and Worcester fire-fighters brought their Firefit Health Challenge to Your Ideas Redditch last month, notching up mileage with a sponsored egg and spoon relay with the With It Group.

Phil from Hereford and Worcester Fire Service said “a big thank you for organising an event which, for me, encompassed everything that the Firefit Challenge is all about. It brought the people from the community centre together; the elderly, the young, my staff and the occupants from the local shops and businesses. It’s been great to see and a fun morning for all involved.”

Redditch Mayor Anita Clayton opened the event, took part, cheered on participants and gave out certificates at the end. With her support, 37 people and one dog took part. They covered over 45 miles, raising nearly £500 for the over 50’s group. n

88

April 2012

REBATE

DESIGNERS & MANUFACTURERS OF IMAGINATIVE BESPOKE TIMBER CONSERVATORIES, ORANGERIES & GARDEN ROOMS

Conservatories

Orangeries

Garden Rooms

Tel: 01562 740065 www.rebate-conservatories.co.uk Rebate Ltd Stourport Road Kidderminster Worcestershire DY11 7BD

the perfect expression of love The Mastercut Collection is available at Cupitt Jewellers, Bromsgrove; D C Leake, Nuneaton; Francis & Gaye, Coventry; W H Peplow, Worcester; T H Baker, Kidderminster, Merry Hill, Shrewsbury, Stourbridge and Telford; Tustains, Leamington Spa.